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4 Times You May Need to Call a Family Law Attorney

February 15, 2024 By Leave a Comment

Despite having the best plan and intentions in life, things don’t always work out well for everyone. This includes personal matters to do with family and relationships. Given the massive scope covered by relationships and family affairs, it’s important to note that there are different sections of the law that you can turn to if you need some kind of help or another. But just what are these situations? Here are four of the times when you may need to call a family law attorney to help you navigate a family matter that’s become serious.

1. For Issues Involving Minors

The first time that you may need to call a family law attorney is when there’s an issue to do with a minor. This includes things such as adoption, emancipation, and even child custody. In these cases, there are stipulations put into place by the law to ensure that the best interests of the child or children in question will be prioritized. Clearly, this is a more personal set of legal issues and is unlike something like dealing with the process of disability with an employee. For this, keep in mind that about 40% of employers in the United States actually offer their employees long-term disability policies, according to the Labor of Statistics.

2. When You Want to Plan Your Estate

Estate planning is an important family affair that can help safeguard the future in terms of finances for your dependents. That said, a mere 33% of adults in the United States have created estate planning documents, according to Legal Zoom. This is a serious issue because no one knows what tomorrow holds, and in case of an accident, your loved ones may be left in financial hardship. That said, you need to work with a good family law attorney to create an estate plan for your assets and stay safe from excessive debt. With a family law attorney’s assistance, you can make the best plans for the future and improve your quality of life as a result, with the knowledge that in case of anything, your family will be safe.

3. If You Have a Marital Property Dispute

During marriage, it’s common to accumulate property and assets as a couple. If an issue comes up in this case, it’s crucial to get the assistance of a good family law attorney who can guide you on the right and legal way to solve this dispute. Keep in mind that you may also need counseling in the process, depending on the specifics of your altercation. On this note, the market size by revenue of the industry of Family Counseling Crisis Intervention Services, according to IBISWorld, was $51.1 billion in 2023. Clearly, a good number of people need assistance when it comes to family matters, so you need not be shy about needing it yourself.

4. During a Divorce

Finally, if you’re getting a divorce or thinking about getting one, you need to involve a family law attorney right from the start. With their help, you can be sure that the process may be easier for you and also yield much better results. Your attorney will prepare you by telling you what to expect, and any legal documents that you need to have, and even come up with a strategy to help you safeguard your interests. This way, you can go through the process with less hassle and have a higher chance of success.

With the help of a family law attorney, you can protect yourself from issues like crippling debt and protect any children that need the protection of the law. That said, make sure to find the right expert for your specific issue, as there are many of them in this field. With the right legal professional, you have a much better chance of getting the best outcome in the process that you’re involved in.

Filed Under: Family/Friends

How to Stay Focused When You’re On the Road

January 30, 2024 By Leave a Comment

To be a safe driver, one of the most important elements apart from a roadworthy vehicle is a focused driver. A lot can happen while driving, and the faster the speed, the higher the risk in general. This makes it important for you to do all that’s in your power to stay focused on the road, no matter how long or short your trip may be. As a result of avoiding accidents on the road, you can also keep your chances of ending up in debt minimal. Here are some of the ways in which you can stay focused when you’re on the road.

Don’t Use Your Phone While Driving

The first way in which you can stay focused while you’re on the road is by making sure that your phone is out of the way. In a world that’s growing more digital by the day, it’s becoming a bit hard to stay away from mobile devices altogether. That said, the time that it takes you to get from one place to another should be reasonable enough for you to stay off the phone. Keep in mind that a lot can happen in the split second that it typically takes to check the notifications on your phone, or, worse still, to respond to a message.

The fact that there are around 1.4 billion cars registered in the United States alone means that there will be many people on various roads and highways at any point in time. This means that you’re responsible for not just your safety, but that of many other people. For their sake and yours, you should consider putting your phone on silent while you’re driving so that there’s minimal temptation to reach for it.

Never Drive While You’re Drowsy or Unwell

Something else that could take your attention off the road in the worst possible way is driving while you’re unwell or drowsy. If you’re taking medication, make sure that you’re well aware of all its possible side effects so that you can plan to work safely around them. This is the case for every issue for which you may need to take medication, including ADHD. As such, take care if you’re among the 8.7 million adults in the United States who, according to Forbes, have ADHD. If you’re simply sleepy, get a rest before driving anywhere, but if this is not an option, hail a ride to take you where you need to go.

Plan Out Your Route in Advance

This tip is additionally important for you if you’re a new driver, as it can help minimize confusion while you drive. Plan out the route that you intend to take to get where you’re going, and check the traffic conditions as an additional measure. This is important to keep in mind as you’ll be well aware of any turns and diversions that you need to take in advance. Keep this tip in mind with the knowledge that the crash risk for drivers of any age, according to the Center for Disease Control, is highest in their first months of driving independently.

Secure Any Pets or Children You’re Traveling With

Finally, if you’re driving somewhere with children or pets, take time to make sure that they’re secured properly. This can play two roles, and the first one is giving you peace of mind as you’ll know that your precious passengers aren’t at any risk. Invest in the right car seat or other relevant device that will help you to do this, and you’ll have improved their safety while driving alongside your own.

These are some of the best tips to help you stay focused while you’re on the road. As a result of dedicating the necessary attention to the roads, you’ll have done yourself and other road users a major service. Practice each one of these measures until you perfect it so that you can be sure of doing the best thing every single time without fail.

Filed Under: Children, Life Lesson

Is Living in Anchorage the Right Choice for Your Family?

January 16, 2024 By Leave a Comment

With Alaska looking to be a more attractive destination for citizens, there are some things that you need to know if you think that living in Anchorage is right for you. This city comes with a lot of benefits, but there are also some other things that you need to know ahead of time before you get to the city so that you aren’t surprised later on. This is a good expense to eliminate for those managing their personal finance and monthly budgets.

This trade-off goes without saying that Anchorage is very cold and can get to negative degrees in the peak of winter. It is important to know that you need to have lots of food and other items stocked for weeks at a time in order to be prepared.

Little Need For Air Conditioning

According to OneDesk, of all the homes throughout the United States, 87% of them have some air conditioning in the home. When you move to Alaska, that is not a necessity like it is in the lower 48. A good bit of the weather is comfortable or very cold for about ten months out of the year. This doesn’t mean that the Alaskan summers don’t get warm, but you can get by with ceiling fans and room fans during that time since the weather gets cooler at night.

Safety and Car Crashes

With a smaller population, Alaska sees fewer accidents yearly than the other 49 states. According to Alaska DOT, there are around 12,000 crashes reported. Most of these crashes will happen in the larger areas, including Anchorage, but it is still significantly less than in other places that you may have lived. Most residents in Alaska are not doing lots of meaningless travel, spending time on the road to run errands and get back home in most cases.

Lots Of Outdoor Activities

Those who move to Anchorage find a lot of outdoor recreation to enjoy regularly. Hunting, fishing, and hiking are just some of the activities that you can enjoy without areas being crowded with tourists. This is a very different experience than you will have in the lower 48, especially during the summer months when families are vacationing. If you are moving with family, then there is a lot to do for all ages.

Lots Of Seafood Options

One of the great things about coastal towns like Anchorage is the endless supply of seafood that comes into town. The restaurants and markets everywhere sell it at more affordable rates than you would find in other parts of the country. This is another bonus for those looking to improve their personal finance by moving to Alaska

Minimal Social Life

It is safe to say that folks moving to Anchorage are not moving to the area for the social life. Because of the weather and the way that it can keep you secluded in your home for weeks at a time, you need to be prepared for a minimal social life. For some families, this is okay, being away from others and only venturing out when you need something or are headed to work during the tourist season.

Potential Isolation

Unfortunately, moving to Alaska isn’t for everyone. There are lots of couples who have moved to the state only to end up divorced because of the isolation because of the weather and having to spend a lot more time in enclosed spaces with their spouse. These divorces happen at no fault, except for a family moving to an area and not aware of how different the living situation would be. According to the American Bar Association, Alaska is included in the list of states available for a no-fault divorce.

If you’re thinking about making the move to Alaska, be sure to do your own research and ensure that it’s the right place for you. Good luck!

Filed Under: Family/Friends

10 Professionals That’ll Help You Maintain Your Finances During a Divorce

January 10, 2024 By Leave a Comment

Divorce is emotionally challenging while also having a significant impact on the personal finances of a couple. Getting the right pros is key to keeping your finances in check when you divorce. Amid the turmoil of a divorce, assembling a savvy support squad is crucial to safeguarding your personal finances.

1. Divorce Attorney

Almost 45% of first marriages in the U.S. end in divorce. Most couples engage a reputable divorce attorney who specializes in family law. Your lawyer will give you sound advice to make sure your money matters are safe and sound. Your lawyer will sort out matters like who gets what, alimony, and who the kids live with after you split.

2. Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA)

Consider hiring a CDFA, especially if your financial situation is complex. A CDFA can assess the financial implications of various divorce settlement options. A CDFA guides you through the maze of financial choices during a divorce, making sure you’re clued in on how each decision might play out down the road. Remember that an uncontested divorce in Pennsylvania means you can get divorced as soon as 90 days from when the complaint is filed and served. No matter what state you live in, there are rules a professional can help you follow.

3. Forensic Accountant

In cases where there are suspicions of hidden assets or financial misconduct, a forensic accountant can be invaluable. When suspicions arise about hidden assets or sketchy financial dealings, a forensic accountant’s knack for sifting through the numbers can shine.

4. Mediator

A mediator facilitates communication between divorcing parties, working towards a mutually agreeable settlement. Though they’re not there to offer legal counsel, mediators are key in helping you and your soon-to-be ex find some common ground, which can ease up the financial strain of splitting up.

5. Estate Planning Attorney

If your divorce involves updating or creating a will, living trust, or other estate planning documents, consult an estate planning attorney. Only four in 10 American adults have a will or living trust. They’ll make sure your final wishes shine through in the estate plan you’re crafting.

6. Tax Professional

Changes in marital status often have tax implications. Consult with a tax professional to understand how your filing status, deductions, and credits will be affected. A tax pro can walk you through what you might owe and show you how to plan for it.

7. Certified Financial Planner (CFP)

A CFP can assist in creating a post-divorce financial plan. A Certified Financial Planner guides you in mapping out a new budget, aiming for fresh financial targets, and choosing savvy investments tailored to your life after divorce.

8. Real Estate Appraiser

If real estate is part of your marital assets, engage a real estate appraiser to determine the current market value. Getting an accurate read on your property’s worth is key to splitting things fairly when you part ways.

9. Credit Counselor

In the thick of a divorce, getting help from a credit counselor can make all the difference in sorting out shared finances and setting up your independent economic life. When you split up, your shared accounts can take a hit on your credit score, so it’s crucial to stay on top of that. A financial counselor can offer help on controlling debt, starting your credit, and making sure you’re financially stable.

10. Child Support Specialist

When kids are part of the picture, it’s smart to talk with a child support expert who can help you navigate your personal finance options and make sure everything’s squared away fairly for their sake.

Splitting from your partner isn’t just emotionally taxing; it also comes with a maze of financial details that the right experts can help you sort through, making sure nothing gets overlooked. Building a team of experts who’ve got your back is key. They’ll steer you through the money maze and help lock down a solid financial game plan post-divorce.

Filed Under: Family/Friends
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