Five Questions To Ask Divorce Lawyers

Because they are desperate for guidance and direction, many divorcing spouses make the mistake of hiring the first attorney they meet. To make matters worse, they often neglect to put him/her through a proper interview. Because of this, there's a very good chance of buyer's remorse. With that in mind, here are five questions you should always ask prospective divorce lawyers.

1. Do You Specialize In Divorces?

Because family law is an enormous area of legal practice, not every family or domestic law attorney has experience with dissolution of marriage cases. He or she may focus on adoptions, domestic abuse, or parental rights and obligations. It is actually not at all uncommon for attorneys who work in this area to have little or no experience in divorce cases, particularly those that go to trial. That is why you should always ask them how many of these cases they have personally handled.

2. How Long Will My Case Take?

Although it is impossible for them to give you an exact date, experienced lawyers should be able to give you a fairly accurate timeframe based on past cases that were similar to your own. This information can also help you determine how hard a legal representative will work to get the matter settled. As a general rule, those with smaller caseloads should be able to devote more time to your claim, which should help speed things along a bit. With that said, it is important to remember that initial time estimates are just that, estimates.

3. Will Anyone Else Be Working On My Case?

There are two reasons you should always ask this question. The first is that it lets you know if there are any other legal professionals you can speak to if the lead attorney is busy. And the second is that there are usually separate charges when paralegals and law clerks are used in researching or preparing a claim. If you can afford the added fees, an extra pair of eyes is generally a good thing on a dissolution of marriage petition.

4. What Is Your Fee?

It might seem incredible, but some clients do not ask their lawyers what they charge before they hire them. This hourly fee can range from a couple hundred to well over a thousand dollars. And since cases can last for several months, it is important to do the math in advance to make certain you can afford their services.

5. What Are My Options?

Generally speaking, there are three ways to resolve a divorce. If you and your ex are on good terms, you might agree to simply split everything right down the middle. In these rather rare cases, lawyers can help both sides complete and file the necessary paperwork. The second, more common option is mediation. Often used by soon-to-be ex-spouses who are still on speaking terms, this legal process helps them arrive at an equitable arrangement in short order. The final, most costly option is to actually go to court. As the client, you want an attorney who will not only explain each of these options, but also explore them to ensure a speedy, less painful resolution.

Use these five questions to find an attorney who will give you the advice and guidance you need during a difficult time.

If you are looking for lawyers in Birmingham, AL, visit http://kirkdrennanlaw.com/.

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Why Hire an Attorney for Child Support Problems

Even though you and your spouse are no longer married, your children still need to be cared for. You may have the responsibility of their daily care; however, your ex-spouse still needs to provide for the children financially. On the other hand, you could be the parent who is obligated to provide financially each month, and you may be having difficulty. That is why an attorney may be required to gain adequate child support for your kids.

Primary Custodian

If you have primary custody of the children, you need to be able to provide food, clothing, shelter, and healthcare for them. Your ex is responsible for helping you provide those necessities through monthly monetary payments. If your ex does not meet that financial obligation, your attorney can help you find a way to make that happen. In some cases, you may have to track him or her down in order to get the funds that are owed to your children.

In addition to helping you find your former spouse, your attorney is there to help you bring him or her to court in order to force the child support obligation. While there may be a very good reason for the money not being paid, there is no excuse not at least notify you and the courts of the problem at hand.

Parent Paying Child Support

Parents who are required to make payments need representation of their own. Hard times can hit anyone, and there may come a time where you are unable to make the court order payment. Rather than miss sending the money or only sending part of it, you should have your attorney contact the courts immediately. You may get a reprieve from having to pay the overwhelming finances for your children temporarily. During this time, you may be able to negotiate a new amount based on your current situation.

Even if you are on good terms with your ex-spouse, you need to have an attorney alert the courts of the problem. You may think you can work out a deal without involving a judge; however, it will not overrule what the legal system has determined you will pay. Failure to meet this judgment can result in you being held in contempt of court. This means you could face fines or even jail time. Jail time could negatively affect your visitation, custody rights, or even relocation rights.

It is important to remember that the money is for the well-being of your children. You should never withhold payment just because you are mad.

If you are the custodial parent, it is okay to be flexible if you choose. Just make sure everything is documented in case the worst should happen, and you need to sue for past payments.

When considering a Camden County child support lawyer, residents visit Kearney, Campbell & Burns. Learn more at http://nj-law.com/familylaw/child-support/.

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Finding A Reputable Social Security and Disability Lawyer

Since people are living longer, the government has pushed back the age in which one can receive full Social Security benefits. The new "retirement age" has been classified as 70 years old. However, that doesn't mean that people can't receive benefits sooner. After all, those with disabilities are can receive Social Security, when the situation qualifies for it. So, if you're not planning on waiting until 70 to claim full benefits, and retire early, or need to file a disability claim, a good lawyer is in order.

Questions to ask potential disability and Social Security attorneys:

• What is your overall approval rating?

• How often can I expect a call, updating me on my case's progress?

• Credentials: How many years have you practiced disability law?

o Do you ever go through additional training?

o Are you licensed in the states you practice?

In addition, be mindful of the office environment.

• Are paralegals available?

• What kind of support stuff is available?

• Will I have my own case manager?

Credentials are incredibly important. Some lawyers are not licensed SSI lawyers. Be admit about seeing experience and licensures.

It is important that a lawyer does not make promises, because frankly it is impractical to predict the outcome of the claim, even if the likelihood is in the clients favor. When asking a lawyer: will my claim be approve? (Or Can you get me approved faster than other clients? How long will the process take?) The lawyer's answer should be realistic:

I can't guarantee that you'll win, but I can highlight ways to improve your
case and increase your approval chances.

There is necessary research to be done. Potentially, different states have different requirements for lawyers. Similar to any job duty, experience is a plus, right? In the case of Social Security, disability attorneys, experience can be outweighed by approval ratings and success rates. If a lawyer has 30 years experience, but a low success rate, don't take the risk.

Younger generations are realizing that saving for retirement is important because no one can live solely off social security benefits. It is limited and diminishing. Since lifespans are increasing, workers are able to work into their 70's, if only as an "encore career," for additional income.

There is no law saying workers have to wait until 70 years old to retire. Retiring around 62 or 65 is typical. In that, if an employer is making it difficult to get benefits, legal action will be necessary.

I recommend visiting http://www.skslawyer.com to learn more about social security lawyers.

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5 Reasons To Contact A Workers' Compensation Attorney

Occupational injuries are much more common than you might think. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 3.0 million nonfatal workplace injuries were reported in 2013, resulting in an alarmingly high incidence rate of 3.3 cases for every 100 full-time workers. Although many of these accidents occurred in traditionally risky workplace environments (e.g., construction sites, coal mines, and oils rigs), most were reported by employers in relatively safe settings.

What Is Workers' Comp?

The good news is that most companies are required carry workers' compensation, which is a type of insurance that provides coverage for work-related illnesses and injuries. The bad news is that there is no guarantee you will by fully reimbursed for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering you experience as a result of an accident at work. With that in mind, here are five reasons you might decide to contact a workers' compensation attorney.

1. You Can No Longer Work

Severe occupational accidents may result in a disability that prevents you from working ever again. Because the insurance companies that provide workers' comp coverage are not in the habit of cutting huge settlement checks unless they absolutely must, you will need the services of an experienced workers' compensation attorney to handle negotiations for you. It is important to note that permanent disability settlements must last you and your family for the rest of what would have been your working years. Expert legal representation is needed to secure the largest possible settlement.

2. Your Employer Did Not Have Insurance

Because workers' comp can be expensive, some unscrupulous employers do not carry it. If you were hurt on the job and your boss informs you that he does not have insurance, you can sue him for damages. As an employee, you have the right to be reimbursed by your boss for any out-of-pocket medical expenses, lost wages due to the injury, as well as your pain and suffering.

3. Your Employer Denies Your Claim

Because insurance premiums get more expensive the more claims you submit, employers are often reluctant to approve a claim unless they must. An experienced attorney can ensure that your boss understands the legal ramifications of denying a legitimate claim only because it might end up costing him more money for coverage.

4. Negligence Was Involved

Even if an accident caused the injury, gross negligence is grounds for a lawsuit. Whether the negligent party was your boss or another employee, you should explore your legal options with the help of a lawyer.

5. You Need Surgery

Once again, insurance companies are often reluctant to approve surgeries unless they are deemed necessary. An experienced attorney may be able to convince the insurer that your surgery is not only necessary, but also cost-effective.

If any of those mentioned above are true, you should contact a workers' compensation attorney as soon as possible.

When considering a workers' compensation attorney, Harrisburg, PA residents visit Navitsky, Olson & Wisneski LLP. Learn more about this service at http://nowllp.com/workplace-accident-lawyers-pennsylvania/.

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Four Guidelines for Qualifying for Social Security Disability

Confirming whether or not you qualify for Social Security Disability can be complicated, and it can involve a number of legal hurdles that will take some time. Fortunately, it is easy enough to understand whether you meet the requirements.

1. Work Status

The most obvious requirement to be met before the government will give you a paycheck is your work status. Generally speaking, if you are not performing paid work at all, then you may qualify. However, there is some leverage allowed if you are working to earn supplementary income. The most current standard says that a person working in 2014 cannot possibly receive benefits if he or she is making over $1,070 per month. If you meet this requirement, you should then consider:

2. Severity

In the context of Social Security Disability, "severity" has a specific meaning when related to your disability. Basically, in order for your condition to be considered severe, it must cause significant impediments to work-related activities. The government will decide whether or not your disability is "severe" based on how long it is expected to last and your ability (or lack thereof) to adjust to new working conditions.

3. Classification of Disability

The Social Security Administration maintains a list of disabilities that automatically qualify a person as disabled. If you have one of the listed conditions or if they determine that your disability is as problematic as the disabilities listed, then you will be officially documented as Disabled.

4. Ability to Work

If the SSA finds that your condition is not as severe as the specific disabilities in their database, they will then look to determine whether or not you are able to perform your previous occupation. An official checkup with a physician will be required at this point. Once your checkup is completed, the government will examine the nature of your previous occupation and weigh its requirements against your current physical condition. If they find that your disability makes it exceedingly difficult to perform your established profession, they will then attempt to determine whether or not you can perform work in another field. This process can be a bit complicated, but essentially what they do is look at your education, your experience, your demonstrated proficiency in other skills, your age, and any other factors that can make you more or less likely to secure work in another field. If they find that your experience and education makes you significantly qualified for other work, you will not be considered disabled.

These general guidelines should help you to determine whether you should begin applying for Social Security Disability benefits. It is always best, however, to procure the proper legal assistance as you begin the process. A good lawyer will help you to navigate the sometimes-confusing system and ideally get you the aid you need.

Looking for more information on social security disability? Metairie, LA residents can learn about the available options by visiting http://www.melanieleavitt.com/#!obamacare-faqs/c24e6.

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Common Causes For Workers Compensation Claims

Regardless of your occupation, there exists the risk that you will sustain an injury in the workplace or in the performance of work-related tasks offsite. Though some kinds of employment come with a much greater likelihood of injury or possess the potential for more severe accidents to occur, even positions that seem at first glance to be completely safe are typically rife with hidden or non-obvious dangers. Workers' compensation benefits are intended to help you to receive the medical attention that is necessitated by your injury or occupational illness. They may also grant you a portion of the income lost due to missed time at work attributable to the injury.

Although one of the primary advantages of workers' compensation is supposed to be that it is quickly and readily accessible to injured employees, there are two factors that can complicate the claims process significantly. Firstly among these is that employers may be faced with elevated insurance rates and the loss of substantial money. Secondly, the insurance companies that offer workers' compensation policies are profit-driven enterprises that secure their own financial success by seeking to approve the fewest and least costly claims that they can. So, despite the spirit of the legislation enacting Iowa workers' compensation law, it is not always acted upon.

Frequent Sources of Occupational Injury or Illness

Physically intensive occupations expose workers to one sort of danger. Highly repetitive and low intensity tasks expose them to another. Typically, employment handbooks or standard industry instruction attempt to advise new workers about the hazards inherent in their chosen line of work and also how to prevent or reduce the likelihood of falling victim to occupational injury and illness. But even best practices and thorough training are not able to completely eliminate the threat of accidental or environmentally-based damage.

Some of the most frequently encountered forms of occupational injury that lead to the filing of a workers' compensation claim are:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Tendonitis
• Bursitis
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Back injuries
• Fractured bones
• Strained ligaments
• Severe lacerations
• Lead paint poisoning
• Toxic chemical exposure
• Electrical injuries
• Amputations

 

Overcoming Opposition
Though you do not have to work with an attorney initially to file your workers' compensation claim, legal representation is necessary if you need to file appeals or pursue the matter through litigation. Moreover, a skilled and experienced lawyer can help you to avoid making procedural errors that could delay your benefits.

Contact the Des Moines workers' compensation lawyers of LaMarca & Landry, P.C.

Joseph Devine

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What Every Social Security Disability Attorney Wants You to Know

The unfortunate reality about disability insurance is that many claimants who file for Social Security are denied, particularly during their appeal for benefits. Legal representation, such as a Social Security disability attorney, can increase your chances of approval during your initial claim, or if need be, during your appeal process.

Who Should File for Social Security Disability?

Social Security is a type of disability insurance that pays benefits to recipients and certain members of their family who meet specific criteria. The recipient must have worked for a long enough period in order to be eligible. In addition, they must have a medical condition currently preventing them from working, one that is expected to prevent them from working for a minimum duration of 12 months, or one that is expected to end in death. Although the Social Security Administration (SSA) does not mandate it, individuals who are looking to submit claims for this benefit can utilize legal representation for the process.

Obtain Representation as Soon as Possible

One of the biggest mistakes that potential claimants make in the filing process is that they don't seek out a Social Security disability attorney as early as possible. The truth of the matter is that securing legal representation early in the process can potentially lead to a desirable outcome. How? A lawyer who is knowledgeable about this particular claim process can give you the benefit of their experience, and most importantly, they can present your case in the most legally favorable light.

According to the SSA, many applicants only seek out a disability attorney after their initial claim has been denied. Certainly, lawyers versed in these types of disability claims are more than willing to assist a claimant with what is called the reconsideration appeal process; however, there is usually very little that they can do once a claimant has been denied. In fact, the SSA reports that the reconsideration appeal rate is between 85 and 87 percent, which only serves to emphasize the grave importance of obtaining counsel before beginning the filing process. The majority of the cases won during the appeal process are the result of the legal representation's labor.

Other Information to Consider

A disability attorney is entitled to receive 25 percent of the claimant's back payment in the event of a win in court. This is standard operating procedure, and the fees should alarm no potential claimant looking for legal representation. However, be advised that the fee is typically deducted from whatever back pay is owed to the claimant first before the claimant receives their benefit.

Expertise in this particular type of disability takes focus. As a result, a Social Security disability attorney that only deals with this type of law is likely your best bet should you have a choice between a lawyer whose time is divided between other areas of the law and one who solely devotes their time to these types of cases.

When considering a Social Security disability attorney, Chillicothe, OH residents visit Perry-Dieterich Co., LPA. Learn more at http://disabilityattorneycircleville.com/.

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Why You Need A Family Law Attorney If You Are Considering Divorce

The days when father knew best or when Ozzie and Harriet happily cohabitated have long since come and gone. Divorce is now a major issue in America. Only about half of first marriages last, and the numbers get worse with each successive ceremony. It is no surprise then that divorce is one of the most common classes of litigation. But just because these cases are common doesn't mean they're predictable.

What Makes Them Different?

Legal battles are rarely pleasant. Suing another person for anything -- whether it's a car accident or an unpaid loan -- can be a stressful experience. However, few legal scenarios can compare with divorce due to its ability to alter the lives of those involved. In addition to living arrangements and last names, ending a marriage almost always affects finances, schedules, and parenting. As such, it is a decision couples seldom take lightly.

Protect Your Legal Rights

A good family law lawyer not only has to know the law, but he must also consider his client's emotional needs. Divorce is an extremely emotional, even traumatic experience. Any married person who is considering the D-word must find an experienced attorney they feel comfortable with. Remember, this person will be your guide throughout what may be the most difficult period of your life. It is never advisable to start down this perilous path until you find the right legal representative.
How can they help?

No, they can't make the problem go away. Even with the help of an experienced family law attorney, the process will almost certainly be painful and unpleasant. But because they know the law, they should be able to avoid delays and get the matter settled as soon as possible. An experienced attorney can also ensure that you have a clear and binding agreement, which greatly reduces the risk of future legal issues.

Protect Your Kids

When children are involved in the equation -- and they often are -- divorce cases are more complicated and emotional. With the help of trusted legal counsel, loving parents are far more likely to make decisions that are in the best interests of their children, rather than letting emotion get the better of them.

Final Thoughts

Experienced family law attorneys are professional and discreet. Most of them have, regrettably, seen it all. They are well aware of the fact that divorces are highly emotional situations that tend to bring out the worst in people. Divorce lawyers also know that they can be of invaluable aid to their clients by helping them through difficult times. It is for these reasons that they can and often do may a bad situation a bit better.

When looking for attorneys practicing family law in Toms River, NJ residents visit Carluccio, Leone, Dimon, Doyle & Sacks, LLC. Learn more at http://cldds.com/family-law/.

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Workers' Compensation Attorney: Understanding the Process and When to Hire a Lawyer

If you get hurt at work, you are traditionally covered by workers' compensation insurance. There are, however, some things that you have to do to ensure that the medical bills are paid by your insurance plan instead of out of your pocket. In some cases, you may need to enlist the help of a workers' compensation attorney, who specializes in these types of proceedings.

Understanding the Process

To know when to get help, you must first understand what types of injuries are eligible for coverage. The injury must occur while on the job during regular or overtime duties. If it occurs during lunch or regular breaks, it is not always covered because you are not supposed to be working during those times. The impairment must be something that is related to your job performance.

In order for insurance to cover cumulative injuries, such as carpal tunnel or back injuries due to sitting or standing, they must be filed in a timely manner. These injuries are hard to prove just based on an x-ray or a medical exam. Unless there is accurate medical documentation, some companies treat these complaints as suspect. Employees then have a harder time getting the company to take care of any medical bills.

In order to increase your chances of approval, you do not want to wait to file a claim. Filing early, however, does not guarantee that you will be approved for compensation. If you are denied, you can appeal the decision and this is where a qualified workers' compensation attorney is your best ally.

Meeting with your lawyer

When you meet with your lawyer you need to explain the circumstances of your injury. Explain all the steps that you took to have the injury documented. You should also tell them how soon you filed and provided copies of all documentation.

At this time, he or she will give you information on your options. You may end up in court or there could be a negotiation set up between you and the business's insurance company. Your lawyer will be with you for any of the proceedings.

Some employers do not carry the recommended insurance to help cover costs in the event of workplace injury. If this is the case, your workers' compensation attorney can help you negotiate a settlement in which your employer will reimburse you for medical expenses related to the injury.

There are times this may go to court and end with you suing for a settlement. The entire process is different as there may be no formal documentation filed with your employer.

Workers' compensation attorneys can also help if you have been fired due to an injury. Workplace injuries cannot be the reason for being let go and you can sue for wrongful termination. While you most likely get your job back, you can be compensated for lost wages until such time as you can obtain a new job.

Because laws vary from state to state it may be in your best interest to contact a workers' compensation attorney before you submit any paperwork to ensure that it is correctly completed. This helps ensure that the application for insurance reimbursement is approved and avoids a long legal proceeding.

When considering workers' compensation attorneys, Harrisburg PA residents visit NOW LAW. Learn more at http://nowllp.com/workplace-accident-lawyers-pennsylvania/.

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When To Contact A Social Security Disability Attorney

People who are unable to work because of a physical or mental impairment can apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. If accepted, the disabled individual will receive monthly payments from the government. Standards are quite high, however, and about 70 percent of initial claims for support are denied. In the overwhelming majority of cases, applicants are rejected because they failed to provide enough medical evidence to substantiate their disability.

What Constitutes A Disability?

For SSDI purposes, an individual is considered disabled if they suffer from a medical or psychological impairment that is so severe it prevents them from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA) for at least one year. At present, the monetary threshold for SGA is just under $1,100. So if an applicant cannot earn above that amount from his labor, he can apply for SSDI benefits. That does not, however, mean that he will be approved.

Can A Social Security Disability Attorney Help?

It may be disappointing, but having your initial claim denied isn't the end of the world. Many applicants successfully pursue their claims through the appeals process. Of course, it helps to have someone familiar with the process on your side. According to official data, over two-thirds of applicants who appeal their denial eventually receive benefits. But that can only happen if they have the information and evidence they need to prove their case. That's where a Social Security disability attorney can be invaluable.

It is important to note that not every claim for SSDI benefits should be pursued. If the Social Security Administration (SSA) had a valid reason for rejecting your request, a reputable attorney may not take your case. He or she may peruse your denial notice and inform you that your chances of winning are slim. If, however, your application was denied because you failed to provide medical evidence of your impairment, an attorney may accept you as a client. As such, he or she may submit new evidence for reconsideration on appeal.

The Odds Are In Your Favor

According to the SSA, more than two-thirds of the cases that come before an administrative law judge on appeal are approved. Why? The most obvious explanation is that most of the applicants at that stage of the appeal process have a reputable Social Security disability attorney by their side. These skilled legal professionals know how to present your case in a favorable light, providing proof of your impairment and the effect it has had on your life.

With results like those, you might be wondering why everybody doesn't hire an attorney to represent them? One obvious explanation is the price. Although their fees are often quite reasonable - generally less than 25 percent of back pay - not every applicant is owed a sizable sum. Only those who have not worked for quite some time and have been pursuing their case for many months may be eligible for substantial disability back payments. With that said, if you cannot work and do not expect to return to work for more than one year, you should seriously consider hiring a lawyer.

A Social Security disability attorney can help you win your claim for SSDI benefits.

When considering a Social Security disability attorney, Chillicothe residents visit Perry-Dieterich Co., LPA. Learn more at http://disabilityattorneycircleville.com/.

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