A family law attorney is a lawyer who specializes in and practices family law. Family law itself varies in definition from state to state. However, most states agree that this area of law revolves around legal matters like: marriage, civil unions, or domestic partnerships divorce, separation, or annulment adoption surrogacy paternity testing paternity fraud child abuse child abduction property settlements child support alimony parental visitation and custody These topics influence the integrity, safety, and future of people's lives. The courts in all 50 states and U.S. territories make it a priority to protect vulnerable parties, particularly children under the age of 18 who are entitled to financial support and access to both parents when appropriate. Determining when it is appropriate for children to have access to both parents or if it is safe for people to enter into legal arrangements like marriage or divorce also may require the … [Become Informed...] about What is Family Lawyer?
Divorce & Property in California
Divorce is the only legal way to end a marriage in California. Divorce, also called dissolution of marriage, involves settling issues such as child custody, alimony and diving items owned by the couple. Sometimes referred to as dividing assets, this issue occurs when spouses decide who gets what asset. When spouses can’t decide, the court will divide their assets for them. Assets in a California Divorce The state will divide two types of assets. The first type of asset is anything bought and sold. These items include cars, houses, boats, and furniture. Assets are also anything of value. Things of value are: • Bank accounts • Pension plans • Stocks • Life insurance with cash value • Business California is a Community Property State Community property, or marital assets, is owned jointly by the married couple. Each spouse owns 50 percent of the assets. Marital assets are things bought and sold during the marriage. In addition, they are things with value acquired during … [Become Informed...] about Divorce & Property in California
Alimony Overview
The alimony meaning used today refers to a financial and legal obligation ordered of one spouse during and after a divorce. Also known as spousal support or spousal maintenance, it is a sum of money that the spouse must pay to the other each month as the divorce case is being decided in court and after a judgment has been rendered by the family court judge. This obligation is typically imposed on the spouse who earns the highest income and has the most assets at his or her disposal. Divorce alimony is awarded to the spouse who earns less, has foregone pursuing a career during the marriage, or has been awarded custody of the couple's minor children. In some instances, it also may be awarded to the spouse who has been awarded the marital home. Alimony is not intended to be a punishment inflicted on one spouse for bad behavior or for leaving the marriage. Likewise, it is not given as a reward for surviving a bad marriage or for filing for divorce. Instead, alimony is awarded as a … [Become Informed...] about Alimony Overview
Child Support Lawyers
Child support lawyers are lawyers who specialize in pursuing child maintenance for minor children involved in divorce, guardianship, paternity, or custodial disputes. These attorneys represent and advocate for the best interests of the children involved in the case. They may work in conjunction with child advocacy groups or alone depending on the circumstances of each individual case. People who hire attorneys who practice in this area of law often do so to pursue not only support or maintenance for their minor children but also to decide custodial rights, visitation rights, or access to the minor children. They may also retain these specialized legal services for advice or guidance on the establishment or supervision of monetary funds and legal filings for children like: trusts annuities wills power of attorney In many jurisdictions in the U.S., child support lawyers can also be retained to advise or assist with matters of: paternity surrogacy adoption … [Become Informed...] about Child Support Lawyers
Selecting a Divorce Attorney in California
Over the past years, divorce has become an everyday activity in the United States. Going through the divorce process can be both emotionally and mentally challenging. It is a hard process for all the family members especially when children are involved. Regardless of the reasons behind the divorce, the most crucial step involves finding a divorce attorney. His work is to represent you in courts and take you through the whole process of divorce. In the divorce process, many people waste time and money as they jump from one lawyer to another trying to find the perfect fit to handle the divorce. When with a good lawyer, the whole process is smooth, time saving and less costly unlike when you have a lawyer who does not represent you as you desire forcing you to change lawyers. To find a good lawyer one can visit Nycourt, pro-Bono, Attorney-general, and what happens now. These are governmental or non-profit organizations. Helpful tips to use when selecting a divorce attorney • Seek … [Become Informed...] about Selecting a Divorce Attorney in California
Neighbors Trees
Trees seem to be something that neighbors often disagree upon. For example neighbors worried about a tree falling on their home and causing damage or trees that may block views of a scenic property. In some cases the trees may actually help by blocking things that people would not want to see anyways like garbage and cutting down these trees can cause many disputes among neighbors. There is a lot to know about neighbors and trees. Ordinances An ordinance will typically be in place in areas that have views or places near an ocean. The view ordinance will require that the person who has the tree that is blocking such things keep it trimmed so that the view is no longer blocked or he will have to cut it down. The person who is having the issue with the tree is able to sue the tree owner in order to make the above happen. You will need to check your local tree ordinances because there may be some limitations in your area. These limitations could include: A particular type of tree … [Want More?...] about Neighbors Trees
Foreclosure By Statutory Redemption
It can be hard to remain a home owner in the modern world. There are so many perils to face that can stack up against you when you least expect it. Defaulting on a mortgage payment is every home owner's nightmare, and for good reason. The thought of interest payments, late fees, and even being foreclosed upon is the stuff of nightmares. On top of it all, it's far easier to miss a mortgage payment than you may think. A lay off from your job or a serious illness that comes with a high insurance deductible can knock you off your feet. If the worst should occur and you lose your home, what then? Can Foreclosure Statutory Redemption Laws Help You Regain Your Lost Home? There may be a chance that you could be able to regain the home you have lost due to the foreclosure process. A special set of foreclosure statutory redemption laws exist in some states. Thanks to these statutory redemption laws, you just might be able to claw back into a position to where you legally regain control of … [Want More?...] about Foreclosure By Statutory Redemption
Trespassing
Trespassing In property law trespassing is defined as being physically present on the property of another without an invitation from, or the consent of, the owner of that property or the owner’s agent. Property law generally recognizes three types of trespass: Simple trespass Simple trespass is defined as being on the property without the owner’s consent. In such cases, the trespasser may not have known that he or she was on another’s property or may have visited the property for a valid reason yet was told to leave by the owner. Criminal trespass If someone is on the property of another without a valid reason, on that property after being told to leave, or in defiance of a posted notice of warning, a criminal trespass may have occurred. These trespassers are usually considered to be criminal acts and can result in the arrest of the trespasser. A special type of criminal trespass occurs when a trespasser makes a threat of bodily harm to the property owner and then … [Want More?...] about Trespassing
top 8 reasons to have your property surveyed
It's hard to dispute a case of encroachment or build anything new on your property if you don't know where your boundaries begin or end. This is the reason that you need to hire a professional to make a property survey on your behalf. Armed with the results of such a survey, you can dispute a neighbor's right to build a fence on your property. You can also build a barn or shed in your back yard or add on to your home, secure in the knowledge that you aren't infringing on anyone else's property. Here is a list of 8 of the most important reasons that you should get a professional land survey for your property. 1. A Survey is the Best Way to Solve a Boundary Dispute If you are not sure where your property begins or ends, the best way to figure it out is to get a property survey done by a professional. Once you know where your rights lie, you can enforce then with the full backing of the law. 2. Knowing Where Your Boundaries Are Will Keep You Out of Court As mentioned above, … [Want More?...] about top 8 reasons to have your property surveyed
Challenging Eminent Domain
When a citizen receives a notification informing them that the government is planning to take their property with an eminent domain action, it is common for people to assume that they have no recourse. The reality is that challenging eminent domain is possible, particularly with the help of real estate and legal professionals. While the U.S. Constitution enables the government to acquire private land for public use, property taking is subject to numerous restrictions. One of the most important of these is the duty to inform the property owner of the eminent domain action within a reasonable time frame. What actually constitutes a "reasonable" time frame is rather vague, but most courts find that the property owner must at least be given adequate time to consult with legal and real estate professionals who can help them assess the offer. Accordingly, some property owners may receive notice more than a year in advance of the commencement of the action while just a few months' notice … [Want More?...] about Challenging Eminent Domain
Pro Bono Lawyers
The term pro bono is Latin and is loosely translated as “for the good of the public.” It is a term that applies to any work done by a lawyer at no cost for an individual or group client. Pro bono lawyers are found in every legal specialty. However, few advertise the fact that they may be willing to provide free legal advice or offer free legal services. Instead, people who are in need of reduced or no cost legal aid must typically search out and find pro bono lawyers in their city or state. That is not to say that pro bono lawyers are difficult to find. In fact, most law schools teach students that it is in their best interests to routinely take on pro bono cases for people or entities in true need. Rule 6.1 as outlined by the American Bar Association Model Rules recommends that lawyers offer free legal advice and offer free services to people with limited financial means as well as entities like: Not-for-profit charities religious houses civic or community groups … [Find Out More...] about Pro Bono Lawyers
Car Accident Lawyers
An auto accident is traumatic enough without having to worry about its prolonged aftermath. As the initial shock of the accident wears off, your attention may then turn to who is at fault and how much it will cost you to repair your car, see a doctor for your injuries, and just cope with getting your life back on track. Regardless of whether or not you are at fault for the car accident, you may be able to regain some sense of normality quicker by retaining a car accident lawyer. A car accident lawyer specializes in protecting people after an auto accident, truck accident, or motorcycle accident. This attorney also knows the traffic and personal injury laws in your state so that you get the best outcome if your case goes to trial or either party involved wants to settle out of court. A car accident lawyer likewise can be an important ally if you have been in an accident because of a mechanical or manufacturing defect in your car, truck, or motorcycle. Your lawyer may be able to … [Find Out More...] about Car Accident Lawyers
Discrimination Lawyers
What Are Discrimination Lawyers? Discrimination lawyers are attorneys who are trained and licensed to defend people who feel that they have been discriminated against in some manner. These lawyers specialize in this area of law and know the current state and federal regulations regarding this offense. Discrimination can include unfair or unequal treatment because of: race gender marital or parental status disability age religious affiliation sexual orientation political affiliation Discrimination is a crime in all 50 states as well as in U.S. territories. It can negatively impact a person's ability to secure essential services in society including: housing education medical care financing public services People who are discriminated against may find it more difficult or impossible to start their own businesses or gain employment. This crime violates victims' human rights. However, proving it in a court of law can be difficult as well … [Find Out More...] about Discrimination Lawyers
Workers Compensation Lawyers
Workers Compensation Overview The official worker's compensation definition varies from state to state. However, both state and federal workers compensation is generally understood to be a type of insurance that covers most if not all valid on-the-job injuries or work-related illnesses. Workers comp provides benefits to injured workers even if the injuries or illnesses were caused by the carelessness of either the employee or the employer. It will not cover injuries or illnesses that stem from a worker being intoxicated or under the influence of drugs in the workplace. Many states also allow for worker compensation claims to be denied if the injuries or illnesses were purposely self-inflicted, such as the worker making the claim started a fight or intentionally ingested chemicals on the job. Likewise, a claim can be denied if the petitioner was committing a crime when injured, not on the actual job site, or in violation of company policy. Workman's comp can also be utilized … [Find Out More...] about Workers Compensation Lawyers
Intellectual Property Lawyers
What are Intellectual Property Lawyers? Intellectual property lawyers are lawyers who are trained and licensed to practice intellectual property, or IP, law. IP refers to any creation of the mind and can include: inventions literary and artistic works symbols names images designs used in commerce IP is divided into two categories, industrial and copyright. Industrial IP refers to patents, trademarks, industrial designs, and geographic sources of source. Copyright IP refers to literary and artistic creations, novels, poems, and plays. It can also include: films musical works drawings paintings photographs sculptures architectural designs Designers, artists, architects, writers, and other creators have the right to protect their inventions and creations from perjury, theft, and unauthorized imitation or use. Protecting their works, however, requires that they follow a precise legal process that must go through the court system. When … [Find Out More...] about Intellectual Property Lawyers
Magistrates Court
If you have to go to court, you might hear the word magistrate. In some cases, the court has the option to assign your case to a magistrate. This is a person who does the work of a judge, but they're not officially a judge. In the U.S. legal system, magistrates help the judicial system save time and money. A magistrate might hear your entire case, or they might only preside over the first few hearings. Where does a magistrate get their power? Magistrates court is a division of a federal or state court. Both the federal courts and state and local courts can utilize magistrates to fulfill their duties. Each court can decide how many magistrates they want and need in order to make their court function effectively. The answer to what is a magistrate judge depends on the powers that the court assigns to them. Usually, their power is limited to hearing only certain types of cases such as criminal law. In other cases, they'll preside only certain parts of a case. For example, a … [Updates...] about Magistrates Court
Municipal Courts Overview
The judicial system in the U.S. features a tiered court system. The municipal court is at the base of this system and ranks lower than the state, district, and federal courts. Still, it plays an influential role in the American judiciary and helps maintain order in the boundary it serves. Discover more about municipal courts and what role they play in the American judicial system. What is the Municipal Court? A municipal court, sometimes called a city court, is a court that serves a specified community, city, or county. The municipal court building is typically located in the county seat and may house the county and city government offices. This court oversees cases that originate within the boundary that the court serves. It cannot hear cases from outside the jurisdiction without a proper basis such as a change of venue for a jury trial. Municipal courts are in session during regular weekday business hours, which are Monday through Friday from 8:00 in the morning until 5:00 … [Updates...] about Municipal Courts Overview
Family Court Overview
Legal cases involving families require a certain level of tact and care to ensure the safety, integrity, and happiness of the involved family members. Rather than allow such cases to get lost in the jumble of civil, criminal, and probate cases that go through the courts, court clerks often assign these matters to family courts. Because of the special makeup and function of this Judiciary division, it is important for citizens to understand what a family court is and what role it plays in society. You also may benefit by learning what kinds of cases can be heard in family law court before you decide if or when to take legal action on your own behalf or the behalf of someone in your family. What is Family Court? A family court is a court that hears and decides cases pertaining to a wide variety of family matters. It is sometimes also called family law court or simply divorce court. The term “divorce court” only applies of course if the plaintiff and defendant are involved in the … [Updates...] about Family Court Overview
Jury Duty
When you are summoned for jury duty, there are plenty of questions that you need an answer to. Some of these are simple as, "How long does jury duty last?" while others may be more complex. You may even be wondering, "Just what is jury duty and what does it consist of?" This article will attempt to answer some of the more pressing concerns that you may have so that you can approach your jury duty with a relaxed, optimistic attitude. There's nothing to fear and a great deal to be learned, so why not jump in with both feet? You may as well enjoy your jury duty since it's mandatory! What Is Jury Duty? It can be difficult to give a precise jury duty definition. However, there are a few characteristics that are common in most jurisdictions. Serving on a jury means that you are among the 12 people that decide the guilt or innocence of a person who is currently on trial facing charges. The verdict that you hand down may or may not be binding, as the judge in the case has the final say … [Updates...] about Jury Duty
Grand Jury
If you are ever summoned to a grand jury, it will be an interesting and unique experience. Of course, you may feel differently if it turns out that a grand jury is in fact being summoned directly on your account. But if it's just a case of receiving a summons to grand jury duty, you shouldn't worry. the process is usually quick painless. It won't take a great deal of energy or time away from your other pursuits in life. However, a grand jury summons is a very serious process that is well worth taking the time to get to know in case such a summons ever appears in the mail. What Is a Grand Jury? The first question you will most likely be asking when you receive a grand jury summons is, "Just exactly what is a grand jury?" A grand jury is a jury that is convened in order to conduct official proceedings on behalf of the state or Federal government. These proceedings include making a full of investigation of potential criminal conduct. A grand jury has the power to determine whether … [Updates...] about Grand Jury
What Is Aggravated DUI
What Is Aggravated DUI / DWI? Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious offense in and of itself. However, you can make it worse by combining it with other crimes that would lead to you being charged with an Aggravated DUI. So What Is Aggravated DUI and how is an Aggravated DUI prosecuted in court? You can act in your own best interests and possibly be able to rebuild your future quickly by learning what leads to you being charged with an Aggravated DUI today. DUI versus Aggravated Driving Under the Influence You may already know that a DUI is defined as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This crime can lead to serious consequences that include being fined to serving time in jail. However, you can face worse legal ramifications if you are charged with an Aggravated DUI. What is Aggravated DUI? In its simplest terms, an Aggravated DUI is a DUI that is paired with a factor that makes the offense worse than what it would be by itself. The … [Explore...] about What Is Aggravated DUI
DUI Trivia Questions – Part Three
Can You Get Fired For A DUI or DWI? One of the biggest questions that people ask when they receive a DUI charge is, "Can you get fired for a DUI?" The majority of job applicants understand that they have to be 100 percent honest when they complete a job application. If the application asks if they have received a conviction for a crime in the past five years, for example, they have to be honest when they provide their answers. The same applies if the application asks if they have been convicted in the past seven years, 10 years or ever. Not everyone knows what happens if the person already has the job, however. The following material explains the impact that a DUI or DWI charge can have on you if you are wondering what happens if you already have a job. The Concept of a DUI The truth is that a charge of DUI is a severe charge that may affect your job. The police are accusing you of acting irresponsibly in more than one way. First, they are saying that you have ingested an … [Explore...] about DUI Trivia Questions – Part Three
DUI Trivia Questions – Part Two
Can You Be a Firefighter With a DUI? Meta Description: Want to be a firefighter but have a DUI? Don’t give up your dreams. Learn how to overcome your DUI and start your career as a firefighter today! Do you want to be a firefighter? Have you been arrested for a DUI? If convicted, you may have a hard time becoming a firefighter, but the possibility is definitely not out of the question. Laws pertaining to the hiring of firefighters and determining their fitness to serve vary by county and state. Different departments also have their own policies in place regarding prior convictions, including DUIs. Despite these differences, all firefighter candidates must “pass” a Bureau of Criminal Investigation background check. The good news is, however, that the decision often rests in the hands of the hiring manager, keeping alive the possibility of becoming a firefighter with a DUI. Automatic Disqualifiers While an understaffed department with a lower candidate pool may be willing … [Explore...] about DUI Trivia Questions – Part Two
DUI Trivia Questions
How Much is Bail for a DUI or DWI? Meta Description: Arrested for a DUI? Don't let bail and fear of the unknown get you down. Talk with an experienced DUI lawyer and discover your options today! Most people like to enjoy a drink every now and then, but any good feelings can quickly dissipate when arrested for a DUI. Thousands of DUI arrests occur each day across the U.S., and many who are charged have no idea their blood alcohol content is over the legal limit of .08 percent. If you find yourself in such a situation, it’s important to know what to expect and the process for posting DUI bail. How Much is Bail for a DUI? – First Things First Before answering the question of how much is bail for DUI arrests, you first need to understand the booking process. After the arrest is made, DUI suspects are typically transported to the county jail and “processed” or “booked.” Before you can post DUI bail, a police officer will: • Take your personal information • Record information … [Explore...] about DUI Trivia Questions
Long Term Impact of a DUI
How Long Does A DUI / DWI Stay On Your Insurance? If you have been convicted of driving under the influence or a related crime, you need to know how long DWI stays on your insurance. The answer may surprise you. Everyone makes mistakes. Some mistakes, however, can have longer-term effects than others. Getting a DUI or DWI can be a mistake with lifelong ramifications if you do not take steps to reduce the effects and get your life back. One of the consequences that many people do not expect is the sharp increase in the amount that they pay for auto insurance. Many insurance companies have special DUI insurance rates that will be much more than what you were paying before. DUI/DWI and Auto Insurance Rates A conviction for driving under the influence will raise the rates you pay for auto insurance - but by how much? The exact number will vary by your policy and insurance company as well as the exact charges added to your record. This is because you are now viewed as a higher … [Explore...] about Long Term Impact of a DUI