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Lancaster Legal Blog
What Are Your Second Amendment Rights?
The Second Amendment of the United States Constitution states that “A well-regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms shall not be infringed.” In short, it gives you the right to own and carry a firearm. Whether...
Continue ReadingWhat is the Statute of Limitations for White Collar Crimes in Pennsylvania?
White collar crimes are often complicated cases that require extensive investigation and evidence-gathering by authorities before they can bring charges. However, the authorities do not have an unlimited amount of time to investigate and keep potential defendants waiting for possible charges. There is a statute of limitations, which is a...
Continue ReadingWhat Is an Expungement?
An expungement is a court order that erases all evidence of a specific criminal charge off one’s record – as if it never happened. Even if a charge never comes to anything, such as if it’s dropped or if you’re found not guilty, evidence of the charge, arrest, and case...
Continue ReadingCan I Be Charged with a White-Collar Crime Even if I Didn’t Directly Commit the Act?
While white collar crimes aren’t violent in nature, they are still serious crimes that the State of Pennsylvania takes very seriously. To make things even more challenging, white-collar crimes are often charged at the federal level because these acts of fraud are often perpetrated online. If you’re facing a criminal...
Continue ReadingWhat Are the Consequences of Being Convicted of a White-Collar Crime for First-Time Offenders?
White-collar crimes are nonviolent crimes that generally relate to financial fraud or embezzlement, and they can lead to very serious charges, including federal charges, when the internet is involved. A range of factors affect how harsh the related fines and penalties will be, and one of these is whether the...
Continue ReadingIs It Possible to Have a White-Collar Crime Conviction Expunged in Pennsylvania?
White collar crimes are nonviolent crimes that are generally financial in nature and tend to involve gaining financial advantage through some form of fraud. In Pennsylvania, white collar crimes can carry jail time and significant fines and can be charged as summary offenses, misdemeanors, or felonies. If you have a...
Continue ReadingWhy litigation experience matters when choosing a lawyer
When the big law firms hire lawyers, they often look to recent law school graduates, evaluating them by their grades, their class rank and other simple metrics. And many of these new hires turn out to be excellent lawyers: they’re smart, hard-working and committed. But anyone who has worked in...
Continue ReadingDoes Pennsylvania have a waiting period for divorce?
You have probably heard horror stories about divorces that drag on for years and wonder if this is true of all divorces. It is not. It is true that some divorces can last years, but it is usually because they are high-conflict divorces involving complex property division or couples who,...
Continue ReadingEscaping from an unfair premarital agreement in Pennsylvania
For the last few decades, attorneys have been advising their clients to sign premarital agreements, also known as “pre-nups,” as a means of reducing uncertainty and turmoil if the marriage does not last. With so many pre-nups in existence, the number of individuals asking if a pre-nup can be invalidated...
Continue ReadingAm I completely barred from using noncompetes now?
One of the many tools that small businesses owners use to protect their business is noncompete clauses and contracts to protect their business secrets. However, in a pivotal decision, the Federal Trade Commission has voted to prohibit for-profit United States employers from enforcing noncompete clauses in employment contracts. This potentially...
Continue ReadingWill a DUI affect my professional license?
If you are charged with DUI in Pennsylvania, your initial concerns may revolve around the loss of your freedom through a jail sentence, paying high fines or losing your driving privileges. While these are some examples of the serious penalties that come with a DUI conviction, a conviction can also...
Continue ReadingWhat is an ignition interlock device?
If you have been convicted of drunk driving in Pennsylvania, the penalties you will face depend on the exact circumstances of your case. These penalties get more severe with certain aggravating factors For instance, a first-time offender with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of under 0.10% may face six months...
Continue ReadingDoes Pennsylvania allow child custody modifications?
Both during a divorce and after it, for many couples, the most contentious part of the divorce is child custody arraignments. And, once the child custody order is issued, one may think that it is set in stone. However, child custody arrangements can become outdated as circumstances change. When this...
Continue ReadingHow can I get my license reinstated after a DUI conviction?
The penalties associated with a drunk driving conviction can be significant. Depending on the facts of your case, you can face jail time, fines, mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device, license suspension or revocation, and damage to your reputation. Even when you think you’ve paid your debt to society,...
Continue ReadingChild custody and parental relocation
Child custody and parenting time can be contentious issues long after a divorce has been finalized. For Lancaster parents, one of the most difficult issues in child custody concerns a custodial parent who wants to relocate with the child. There are laws regarding relocation and parents need to know their...
Continue ReadingWhat you need to know about Pennsylvania’s open container law
There’s no question that a drunk driving conviction can upend life as you know it. But that’s not the only alcohol-related offense that can disrupt your future. Pennsylvania, like many other states in the country, has a law that makes it illegal to drink or simply possess an open alcohol...
Continue ReadingDUI stop leads to many other charges
Many people who assume the risk of driving while intoxicated do not always realize the risk of being charged with several serious crimes if they are stopped for a possible DUI. A recent arrest in Akron Borough demonstrates how these additional charges may quickly pile up. The incident According to...
Continue ReadingA parenting plan is a key part of a child custody order
Divorce be a difficult transition for everyone involved. This is particularly true for children. A significant part of the case will be dedicated to addressing the child’s needs and serving their best interests. That includes child custody, child support and parenting time. Regarding parenting time, there is a direct link...
Continue ReadingIs an expungement like a pardon?
If you have been convicted of a crime, there may be two options available to you to address it so you can move forward with your life. A pardon is an official forgiveness granted by the governor and an expungement of your criminal record means that it is removed from...
Continue ReadingWhat happens at custody conciliation?
The custody process in Pennsylvania can be confusing and overwhelming. Learning how to effectively co-parent takes time, patience and compromise and sometimes you and your co-parent are just not there yet. When that happens, you find yourself in custody court. The custody process begins when one parent files a custody...
Continue ReadingDo you need a pre-nuptial agreement if you are remarrying?
When you are in the process of getting remarried, a pre-nuptial agreement may be something you do not consider. Getting remarried is exciting and a happy time. You may be ready to start on a fresh path with someone new since you have already experienced tre end of a marriage....
Continue ReadingHow to stay emotionally safe during difficult co-parenting
Are you struggling to successfully navigate your co-parenting relationship with your child’s other parent? If so, you’re certainly not alone. Many parents in Pennsylvania find themselves facing tension and conflict as they work out scheduling and time-sharing arrangements. But when the friction intensifies, it can negatively impact your child, harming...
Continue ReadingHow can you alleviate the stress of pending criminal charges?
There’s no doubt that facing criminal charges is stressful. You can easily find yourself lost in thoughts of potential prison time, financially ruinous fines, and irreparable harm to your career and reputation. Although it might be hard to do, you can take solace knowing that there are multiple criminal defense...
Continue ReadingProfessional drivers must avoid even a first DUI
The criminal penalties even for one DUI in Pennsylvania are steep. While a first-time DUI with no aggravating circumstances will not require jail time, it is still a criminal conviction. Furthermore, any prior DUIs will make the punishments harsher. Pennsylvania also punishes those with higher BAC levels, over .10 and...
Continue ReadingDivorce, child custody and holiday schedules
With holiday season in full swing, it is difficult to not see the importance these holidays have for individuals and families. For most parents, they cannot imagine celebrating the holidays without their children. However, for divorced parents, this is often a challenge. Creating a custody plan can be a difficult...
Continue ReadingAvoiding a DUI over the holidays
We are all busier during the holidays, which are filled with parties, family gatherings and other social events. Many of these events involve alcohol and you may find yourself having a few drinks more often than usual. Police officers know this, which is why there are often more cops on...
Continue ReadingWhat happens to a family business in divorce?
Dividing property frequently comes to the forefront in a Pennsylvania divorce. People will understandably view that from the perspective of items they have accrued as a couple. That includes a marital home, joint bank accounts, investments, automobiles and collectibles. However, some people have a business that could be a major...
Continue ReadingHow will your children perceive your divorce?
Anyone in Pennsylvania who is going through a divorce is sure to feel, at times, anger and frustration. However, when the divorce involves issues dealing with minor children as well, those feelings can be multiplied and, in fact, can be combined with other feelings such as uncertainty and helplessness. The...
Continue ReadingWhat happens to a family business in divorce?
Your marriage is over, and you are heading for divorce. Property division is a major part of the divorce process in Pennsylvania. This process can be complex, and the situation becomes even trickier if you own a business with your spouse. Chances are you and your spouse were not contemplating...
Continue ReadingIf you are a landlord, you are a small business owner
Many people in the Lancaster area may own an extra home in the area. Others may even rent space in their own residence to make some extra money. While they might not think of it this way, any Pennsylvania landlord is also a small business owner. This is true even...
Continue ReadingUnderstanding child custody denials
When parents divorce and they have children in common, they must address child custody. Sometimes, parents can come to a mutually acceptable agreement about custody but often the court must decide instead. The court’s primary concern is the best interest of the child. This means that in some situations, it...
Continue ReadingThree reasons DUI breath tests might not be reliable
If you have been charged with DUI in Pennsylvania, the prosecution will most likely use the results of a chemical breath test as evidence against you. This can be very powerful evidence. If your test showed a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, you are legally presumed too...
Continue ReadingReasons to avoid social media during your divorce
Divorce is an emotionally draining time for anyone going through it, and it is normal for divorcing parties to seek an outlet for their feelings and frustrations during the divorce process. For many people, social media is where they often vent and unwind. However, during a divorce, having an online...
Continue ReadingTraffic stop yields evidence of several crimes
Being pulled over for a traffic violation is serious enough, but a traffic stop that appears to be routine may yield evidence of several other, more serious crimes. A recent traffic stop in the borough of Lititz demonstrates this effect very convincingly. The incident On July 9, a Lititz borough...
Continue ReadingModifying a child custody order in Pennsylvania
If you and your ex are fighting for custody of your children, you and your ex may be required by the court to submit a parenting plan specifying a childcare schedule and other details. The court will review the plans and develop a final plan best suited to serve the...
Continue ReadingCan I take photos or videos of the police?
Interactions with police officers usually make people nervous. Whether you are pulled over while driving, have a police officer show up at your door or are stopped by a police officer while in public, you are likely to feel anxious. You may also have questions about what your rights are...
Continue ReadingDecision-making and co-parenting in Pennsylvania
When working out a child custody plan, parents often develop elaborate schedules that cover who will get the kids on what dates, who will pick them up from school or drive them to events, who will spend holidays with them and many more details. These are all important matters, but...
Continue ReadingCan I move with my child to a new city after I divorce?
Summer is a popular time for families in Lancaster to move from one city or state to another, since the relocation would not disrupt their child’s school routine and would give the child a chance to adjust to their community before the new school year begins. But if you are...
Continue ReadingWhat are the differences between LLCs and corporations?
Starting a business in Pennsylvania is an exciting time for many people. It can also be nerve-wracking as there are many aspects of running a business that people need learn when they get started. People may understand the product or service that they are providing and may have clients and...
Continue ReadingWhat penalties could you face upon criminal conviction?
There’s no doubt that it’s stressful when you’re up against criminal charges. If this is your first time being accused of criminal wrongdoing, then you might be wondering about what the process will look like, but you’re probably more concerned about the potential penalties that the prosecution seeks to thrust...
Continue ReadingUnderstanding small business tax credits
Whether you are just starting your small business in Lancaster or have been in business for a while, it is important to know about potential tax credits that might be available to you. Feeling anxious or stressed during tax season is normal, but knowing you are using the available small...
Continue ReadingDUI suspect arrested and charged with other crimes
Driving under the influence of alcohol or other drug that impairs a person’s thought and reaction times often leads to other criminal charges that far outweigh drunk driving. A recent arrest in Reading illustrates the point. The arrest According to news reports, police stopped the suspect’s car because they noticed...
Continue ReadingDo divorce and child custody always have to be scary?
If you are a young married person who is facing a Pennsylvania divorce and child custody dispute, you feel overwhelmed and anxious about your future. You are worried about how the divorce will affect your children, your finances and your emotional well-being. You may also wonder what options you have...
Continue ReadingNavigating three child-related financial issues post-divorce
Figuring out how to effectively co-parent can be a struggle. You and your child’s other parent might have conflicting ideas about the best way to raise your child, which can lead to heated disputes that are difficult to resolve. But even if you and your child’s other parent are on...
Continue ReadingCo-parenting tips during after-school sports season
Divorced or separated parents know that co-parenting is not always easy. You and your co-parent might agree on a custody schedule, but as your child gets older, changing circumstances can bring new challenges. One of these common challenges involves how to handle custody time when your child is involved in...
Continue ReadingCan I get a drug DUI if I have a valid prescription for the drug?
If you have a chronic health condition or a serious illness, it is likely that you take a prescription drug to manage or treat it. These drugs are lawful to use as directed if you have a valid prescription. Still, some of these drugs have side effects that can affect...
Continue ReadingNesting can solve some child custody-related issues
For divorcing parents, they must deal with all of the things all divorcing couples deal with, but then, all of the child custody-related issues as well. This leads many to look for creative ways to solve these child custody-related issues or make dealing with other divorce issues easier. One solution...
Continue ReadingInternational child abduction
For those dealing with child custody issues, you know that there are a million issues to resolve. However, for those dealing with international child custody issues, they know that there are actually a million other issues to worry about as well. If one parent should abscond with your child, there...
Continue ReadingHow co-parents can make the best of school sports season
Navigating a coparenting relationship can be difficult, to say the least. You and your child’s other parent may have conflicting ideas about how to raise your child, which may make decisions about everything from schooling to discipline and even religious upbringing challenging and conflictual. But even if your co-parenting relationship...
Continue ReadingWays to co-parent at the child’s big game
There are countless benefits for children who participate in afterschool sports. Children learn teamwork, discipline and perseverance, and nothing makes a child happier than seeing their parents in the stands or on the sidelines, cheering them on. And, most parents want to be involved in their child’s extracurricular activities, even...
Continue ReadingCan my ex just take our kid overseas?
These days, you cannot turn on the television without seeing images of international travel. It is incorporated into almost every show, scripted and reality alike. This has led many to seek international employment or try moving internationally to find their roots. This can be a wonderful journey, but not so...
Continue ReadingThe ARD program may clear your name if you are charged with DUI
You got a DUI and now what? Will you have to go to jail? The thought itself is terrifying not to mention how your life will be changed forever even upon your release. Getting a DUI in Pennsylvania does not always mean jail time and a conviction. One alternative to...
Continue ReadingMaternal gatekeeping is a real problem
Maternal gatekeeping may sound like a mother blocking the entrance to a theme park, but the reality is much darker. Maternal gatekeeping can destroy the father-child bond. What is it? Maternal gatekeeping refers to situations where the mother of the child controls access to the child. This includes outside parties,...
Continue ReadingPossible ways to challenge a breath test
Getting charged with a DUI in Pennsylvania is a serious event that affects many areas of your life. You face high fines, loss of your driver’s license and potential jail time. A DUI conviction could also affect your career or reputation among family and friends. Although there are potential defenses...
Continue ReadingFour common property division mistakes to avoid
Pennsylvania is an equitable distribution state. This means that your divorce is going to result in the division of assets that is deemed by you and your spouse, or the judge, if an agreement can’t be reached, to be fair. This doesn’t, however, mean that the division of assets is...
Continue ReadingPreparing for your custody trial
Pennsylvania law allows you the chance to resolve your custody dispute without having to enter a courtroom. As part of the custody process in Pennsylvania, you are required to attend a conciliation and potentially a mediation, all before you get to a custody trial. Conciliation and mediation A conciliation is...
Continue ReadingDrivers with multiple DUIs face harsher penalties in Pennsylvania
People who are accused of driving under the influence in Pennsylvania have always faced penalties if they were convicted. In an effort to promote safer roadways, lawmakers and others keep pushing to make the penalties harsher and harsher. To have a strong defense, it’s important to be knowledgeable about the...
Continue ReadingHow long are drivers’ licenses suspended after DUI?
There are many different laws and penalties regarding DUIs in Pennsylvania. People may understand that they could be sent to jail, have to pay fines, lose their drivers’ licenses and other penalties. However, which penalties people will face for a particular DUI offense depends on their blood alcohol concentration (BAC)...
Continue ReadingParallel parenting when co-parenting simply does not work
A lot of attention is placed on co-parenting as the gold standard for shared custody. While successful co-parenting can benefit your child in many ways, sometimes you and your child’s other parent simply cannot cooperate well enough to make co-parenting work. If you gave co-parenting your best shot and it...
Continue ReadingCan I get a DUI while parked in my driveway?
You may be returning home after a night out and be shocked to find a police car driving up behind you as you pull into your driveway. If the police officer asks if you’ve been drinking that night, you may be surprised, assuming that since you are home safe, you...
Continue ReadingGetting caught up in a drug bust
Sometimes a Pennsylvania resident will end up facing drug-related charges after a nearly random encounter with police, such as a traffic stop. The police may pull over the person for a minor traffic infraction and, while talking to the person, see drug paraphernalia in their car. This gives them probable...
Continue Reading5 criminal defense strategies that you might be able to use
When you’re charged with a criminal offense, it can feel like the world is against you. The prosecution might make bold statements about its ability to convict you, and the penalties that are threatened can leave you fearful of the future. But hope isn’t lost. After all, even in cases...
Continue ReadingWhat you need to know about modifying a custody arrangement
Are you worried about your child’s safety and well-being as you are reading this? If so, then you might need to consider whether seeking custody modification is right for you. It’s easy to have an emotional reaction when you suspect that your child has been subjected to inappropriate care while...
Continue ReadingFour reasons why you shouldn’t talk to the police
A lot of criminal convictions are obtained on the very words spoken by an accused individual, especially when interacting with the police. These admissions are powerful for the prosecution in court, and they’re extremely hard, if not impossible, for you to walk back. Therefore, if you’re being investigated for criminal...
Continue ReadingHandling custody challenges during the holiday season
The holiday season is coming up soon, and often means extra stress for Pennsylvania parents who are sharing custody of their children. Hopefully, you have a custody order in place through a court that includes a holiday schedule, but even that does not completely prevent disputes. If you do not...
Continue ReadingCan the TSA arrest me for being drunk?
For anyone who has flown recently, you know it can be stressful, especially when you are stuck on a long layover or coming back to the airport after your original flight was cancelled. As such, you can hardly be blamed for having a drink or two during your layover or...
Continue ReadingArguing self-defense in your domestic violence case
It doesn’t take long for a verbal altercation to get heated. Sometimes, these matters even turn physical. When this happens, people can be left injured, the police can be called, and allegations of criminal wrongdoing can fly. If you’re on the receiving end of these accusations, then you face the...
Continue ReadingWhat is a field sobriety test?
Being stopped for suspicion of drunk driving is intimidating. Before making an arrest; however, the police officer may try to have motorists submit to a battery of tests that evaluate the driver’s balance, coordination and ability to divide their attention to multiple tasks. Field sobriety tests The field sobriety test...
Continue ReadingMental illness: a significant consideration in child custody
Child custody analysis requires courts to weigh numerous and often conflicting factors to determine to whom they should grant physical and/or legal custody. Mental illness represents perhaps the best example of how courts balance these interests. Parents retain a right, though not unrestricted, to bear and raise their children; however,...
Continue ReadingAre same-sex divorces the same as traditional divorces?
We all know that marriage equality is the law of the land, and by that same law, so is divorce equality. However, many same-sex couples thinking about divorce wonder if their divorce process will actually be the same as so-called, “traditional” divorces. Stigmas The LGBTQIA+ community fought for the better...
Continue ReadingDrafting your LLC operating agreement
Once you’ve decided to form your limited liability corporation (LLC), there are many things you need to do as part of the startup process. One of your main tasks is drafting an operating agreement. What is an operating agreement? An LLC operating agreement is a written document that states the...
Continue ReadingSix key DUI defense strategies
A DUI conviction can leave your future in jeopardy. It can threaten your license, your job, and even your freedom. With a significant risk of harsh penalties, it’s crucial that you know how to build an aggressive criminal defense that protects your interests as fully as possible. But what defense...
Continue ReadingFocusing on the legal issues, not emotions, in a divorce case
If a divorce is happening, chances are that something has gone wrong in the relationship, even if the couple says they have simply “drifted apart.” No one gets married with the thought that the relationship could end in divorce. For many people, the animosity, ill will and emotional turmoil that...
Continue ReadingHow to prepare for child custody negotiations
Child custody can be a delicate issue for both parents and for the child. Parents can help prepare for the child custody process by being familiar with what is used to determine child custody and what is taken into account when deciding what child custody arrangement will be best for...
Continue ReadingWhat happens if I refuse a Breathalyzer test?
Imagine you are driving along the road and are pulled over by a police officer. At some point during the traffic stop, the officer may reasonably suspect that you have been drinking alcohol and ask you to submit to a Breathalyzer test to determine your blood alcohol content, or BAC....
Continue ReadingHow can parents successfully co-parent?
One of the biggest fears divorcing parents have is the effect their divorce will have on their children. However, successful co-parenting can lessen that effect on Lancaster kids. Communication is key The backbone of a successful co-parenting relationship is communication. Indeed, many marriages fail because of a lack of communication...
Continue ReadingBusinesses of all sizes need ongoing legal support
While Lancaster and the surrounding areas have their share of large employers, many if not most people in the area earn their living by working for or owning small or mid-sized businesses. Many of these smaller businesses will either have no full-time in-house attorneys or a very limited staff. Even...
Continue ReadingHow can I build a child custody modification case?
Your child custody dispute may have been settled a while ago, but there’s a strong chance that you may end up having to revisit your custody arrangement as circumstances change. If you think that a change is necessary to protect your child’s best interests, then you’ll want to file a...
Continue ReadingWhat are Miranda rights and why are they so important?
We’ve all seen crime shows where the police, as they are arresting a suspect, read them their rights. It is often a high drama moment, and many people have heard the phrases so many times that they know them by heart. What movies and television shows are reenacting is the...
Continue ReadingWhen is an ignition interlock required?
A DUI conviction can seriously disrupt many things in your life and carries major penalties. In addition to the high fines, loss of driving privileges and potential jail time, you may be required to use an ignition interlock device, which is a device installed in your vehicle that you must...
Continue ReadingUnderstanding “clean slate” and who is eligible in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, being accused of a crime and subsequently arrested is challenging in many, many ways. If there is a conviction, there will be concerns not just about the penalties, but the long-term consequences even after the sentence is completed. The person might be aware of the expungement process and...
Continue ReadingHow does an allegation of domestic violence affect custody?
Like other states, Pennsylvania recognizes that there are some situations in which parents might not be able either to share decision-making or to split the time with the children about equally. One of these situations is when one parent has abused the other. Sadly, domestic violence does happen too often...
Continue ReadingPolice don’t need a chemical test to charge for DUI
It is a common image in popular culture of police giving someone a portable breath test at the side of the road. The idea is the officer is using that instrument to decide if a person is too drunk to operate a motor vehicle, and, thus, in violation of the...
Continue ReadingHow do penalties increase for people with multiple DUIs?
When people drink alcohol in Pennsylvania there are plenty of activities that are both fun and legal to do. However, driving one’s vehicle after drinking too much can result in being charged with a DUI. Being charged with a first DUI can result in license suspensions, fines, jail and other...
Continue ReadingCan the “two-hour rule” play a role in my DUI defense?
Pennsylvania drivers who are arrested and face the prospect of a conviction for driving under the influence might understand the basics about the charges. That includes the traffic stop itself, field sobriety tests, the breathalyzer and blood-alcohol concentration. What they are often unaware of is the nuance of these cases....
Continue ReadingExpunging a criminal record in Pennsylvania
It should come as no surprise to most Pennsylvania residents that a criminal record can have many ramifications. One bad night or one mistake can result in a criminal conviction, and even one misdemeanor charge on a record can have permanent consequences in almost all areas of life. People with...
Continue ReadingDomestic violence charges can derail one’s career, life
A resident of Lancaster County might not realize how easy it is to get charged with assault, battery or other crimes related to domestic violence. In some cases, a person might make a serious mistake in the heat of a family squabble or a tense situation with one’s ex. In...
Continue ReadingWhat are the grounds for divorce under Pennsylvania law?
Divorce is never an easy proposition. For people in Pennsylvania who have reached the end of the line in their marriage, taking that next step and moving forward with a divorce proceeding is complicated and emotionally wrenching. Given the inordinate challenges that people across the nation have faced in the...
Continue ReadingTaking care of insurance coverage during a divorce
Getting ready for divorce involves not only the working through of intense emotional issues that are bound to come up, but also the more pragmatic considerations of property division and, where there are children, custody and parenting time. These strong emotions can cloud details that both sides must consider as...
Continue ReadingWhat are the differences between legal and physical custody?
Child custody is a big term. It refers to the rights and powers of a parent or other person to care and provide for a child. In Pennsylvania, the best interests of children guide decisions related to child custody. However, parents may not know that there is more than one...
Continue ReadingDeciding on the right type of business structure
When a person wants to start a business, he or she may want to understand what type of business structure is the right one to use. In Pennsylvania, there are four main types of business structures, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Each business structure has its own registration...
Continue ReadingHorse and buggy struck in Franklin County crash
A Chambersburg man has admitted to consuming alcohol and using controlled substances prior to hitting a horse and buggy in Southampton Township, Franklin County. The crash occurred at 8:30 a.m. when the suspect’s pickup truck collided with the buggy in the 3100 block of Orrstown Road. Three people were in...
Continue ReadingWhat can I expect during the criminal trial process?
The criminal trial process can be confusing for many in Lancaster County, some of whom have never been charged with a crime before. After you are charged, an arraignment is conducted, discovery has been completed, and all preliminary hearings and pre-trial motions have passed, it is time for the actual...
Continue ReadingAttacking witness credibility could be key to your case
It’s natural to worry about pending criminal allegations that have been levied against you. After all, the ramifications of a criminal conviction can be devastating. It might threaten you with jail or prison time, and enormous fines might shake your financial stability. Harm to your job and housing prospects, your...
Continue ReadingDriving under the influence: will my license be suspended?
When someone is arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, it is often their first and only experience with the criminal justice system. It can be a shocking and confusing time, with more questions than immediate answers. One of the most common things people want to know is what...
Continue ReadingHow to determine an equitable division of assets in divorce
People acquire property at various points in their lives, keeping some assets for years while disposing others. Sometimes they will acquire assets or start a retirement account when they are younger before they are married. Other times they will acquire property as they grow older, some of it being acquired...
Continue ReadingNavigating child custody in Pennsylvania
Navigating child custody can be stressful for many parents during their divorce. It is helpful for divorcing parents to be familiar with the family law process and how child custody is determined as they work through their own child custody concerns. Child custody factors considered in Pennsylvania Pennsylvania, as most...
Continue ReadingHow to seal or expunge your criminal record in Pennsylvania
Let’s face it, everyone in the Lancaster area has made a mistake during their lifetime. Luckily most of those mistakes have not resulted in a criminal record but for those who do have a criminal record they may wonder if they can ever get rid of it. In fact, a...
Continue ReadingWhat should I consider when deciding where to locate my business?
After graduation from high school or college, many young adults have a good idea for a business they and a buddy want to go into together. It could be a landscaping business, a coffee shop or an accounting firm. Really, the possibilities are endless for those who are willing to...
Continue ReadingOverview of the criminal expungement process in Pennsylvania
When someone is convicted of a criminal offense, that person has to face a lot of challenges in his or her everyday life. The sad part is that In many of such cases, the offenses are minor and the person convicted has realized the mistake and now wants to move...
Continue ReadingThe potential penalties and consequences of DUI charges
The ramifications of drunk driving charges can be significant for accused drivers facing DUI charges. Accused drivers may face the threat of significant negative impacts to their personal and professional lives as a result of DUI charges which is why they should understand criminal defense options that may be available...
Continue ReadingAre the prosecution’s witnesses lying? Show the jury
It can be nerve-wracking to face criminal charges. After all, the potential penalties that you’re facing might be quite severe. Therefore, you’re probably trying to figure out what you can do to build the strongest criminal defense possible in hopes of beating the prosecution. While you might have a number...
Continue Reading3 tips to avoid vague language in a business contract
Whether you are in the early stages of business formation or are developing relationships to further grow your organization, writing strong contracts is crucial. It is common for the owner to favor his or her business in the terms of the contract, but it is important to use clear, concise...
Continue ReadingDrugged driving: What to know
Driving under the influence of alcohol – also known as DUI – is exceedingly dangerous. Equally dangerous is a less-known activity that can still lead to serious injuries and criminal charges: driving under the influence of controlled substances. Pennsylvania has very strict laws about operating a vehicle while using drugs,...
Continue ReadingWhat are your options for the family home during divorce?
If you own a home, then you might have a significant amount of equity built into it. You might also be emotionally attached to it. These realities can make it difficult to deal with the family residence in the midst of divorce’s property division process. While you may feel strongly...
Continue ReadingSixteen factors courts consider when making custody rulings
When a child’s parents break up or divorce, it can be an emotional time for all involved. Parents may be concerned about how much time they will spend with their child following the split, and the child may experience a significant amount of distress. For these reasons, it is important...
Continue ReadingHere are some ways to defend against DUI charges
If you’re facing drunk driving charges for the first time, then you’re probably worried about how such allegations may affect your future. It’s true that drunk driving charges can cause a lot of upheaval in your life, especially if they end up leading to conviction. You might have your license...
Continue ReadingWhat options do unmarried fathers have?
When it comes to a divorced couple in Pennsylvania, each parent’s roles and rights are usually clear, and thus, either party can provide documentation in the event of a dispute. However, it can be difficult for a father to understand his rights and duties when he isn’t married to the...
Continue ReadingWhat happens after a first DUI offense?
A DUI conviction can drastically change your manner of living. In Pennsylvania, the most extreme multiple offenses can result in fines as much as $10,000, up to five years in prison, and loss of license for up to 18 months. More than 20,000 DUI arrests occur every year in Pennsylvania,...
Continue ReadingImplied consent and DUI charges
When you’re issued a driver’s license, it’s expected that you will obey the rules of the road. This includes heeding traffic signals and never driving while under the influence of drugs and alcohol. Because the expectation is that you will follow the law when you’re behind the wheel, the expectation...
Continue ReadingWill you receive alimony in your Pennsylvania divorce?
Your spouse may have earned most or all your household’s income during your marriage. If you depended on their support for your lifestyle or survival, you will likely worry about meeting your expenses after you two divorce. Furthermore, since divorcees in Pennsylvania are not entitled to alimony, you may fear...
Continue ReadingUnderstanding potential DUI penalties in Pennsylvania
All DUI charges are serious. The potential consequences for even a first-time offender can be severe. It’s important to understand how DUIs are charged in Pennsylvania, the possible penalties, and the importance of protecting your rights when you’ve been accused of a crime. Three tiers of DUI charges Pennsylvania categorizes...
Continue ReadingPennsylvania guidelines for child support
Divorce presents a major shift in every aspect of life. When a couple who has children decides to separate, it only adds another wrinkle. Children, especially younger ones, are like a sponge. They fully internalize what they see. Each decision you make, how your act, react and what you say...
Continue ReadingIs there forgiveness for first-time DUI offenders?
Your slight miscalculation has led to a serious citation — after a night of drinks to celebrate a friend’s job promotion you received a DUI charge. You were under the impression that you waited long enough to sober up and drive yourself, otherwise you would have used a rideshare app...
Continue ReadingNon-compete agreements aren’t always enforceable. Will yours be?
By their very nature, non-compete agreements in employment are a restraint on trade. If you require employees to sign these agreements, you should be aware that there are limitations on what can be in the agreement. Courts will scrutinize these agreements for fairness and legality. A non-compete agreement is a...
Continue ReadingThe Practice of Law and COVID-19
Many of us are wondering if life will ever be the same again after COVID-19? I know I am. Although I do not pretend to know the answer to this question, I am confident in saying, YES…but it will be different. All of us lost something we miss – job,...
Continue ReadingPros and Cons of business partnerships
Business ownership can lead to long hours and hard work, but if you put in the time and effort, the feeling of success, security and freedom and worth it. You have had a business idea for a while but aren’t sure where to get started. What if you brought in...
Continue ReadingWhat is a Motion to Suppress Evidence?
A motion to suppress is a written request to prevent the government/prosecutor from using certain evidence against you in a criminal trial and would be decided by a judge – it is not decided by a jury. For example, the police search your car or your home illegally and find...
Continue ReadingYou have been charged with a crime? Now what?
Have you or a loved one recently been charged with a criminal offense in Pennsylvania? If so, this article is intended to explain what you may generally expect moving forward. The initial shock of a criminal charge is equal parts humiliating and scary. Will my picture be on social media?...
Continue ReadingWill you lose your license after a DUI?
A drunk driving arrest is a stressful event. You may wonder how your family will react or whether you’ll lose your job. There is certainly a lot to consider as you’re riding in the back of the squad car, but there’s one thing that should be at the front of...
Continue ReadingWhat is a Post Nuptial Agreement in Divorce?
A Post Nuptial Agreement (“PNA”) is an agreement between two spouses that spells out how their property and debts are to be divided in a divorce action. Additionally, this agreement may also include terms for spousal support, alimony and even child custody and is typical in situations where spouses separate...
Continue ReadingHow to prepare for a divorce
Whether you intend to file for divorce or whether your spouse files first, the thought of a divorce is often times overwhelming. This article is intended to give you some initial advice on what steps you should take first in the events a divorce. Our firm has been handling complex...
Continue ReadingFour things to do before you start a business
Taking the plunge by starting your own business for the first time is bound to feel exciting, scary and so right. It’s a risk, but there are ways to reduce the risk and maximize the chance that you’ll be the best boss you ever had. Here are some of the...
Continue ReadingCan I name my LLC whatever I want?
You’ve decided to finally take the leap and start your own limited liability company (LLC). Congratulations. This is an exciting decision to make. One of the first things you figure out after the purpose of your business is what you’re going to call it. Although this is one of the...
Continue ReadingHow do I select my agent for my health care power of attorney?
The agent you name in your health care power of attorney document will be responsible for making medical decisions on your behalf in the event you are too sick to make them for yourself. Because this person is called to action only after you have been incapacitated, there are several...
Continue ReadingWhat is a Preliminary Hearing? Do I need a lawyer?
When you are charged with a criminal offense a preliminary hearing is the initial court hearing normally held the magistrate’s office where the offense occurred. In Lancaster County certain preliminary hearings are held downtown at the courthouse (DUI’s and domestic violence cases). The arresting officer will file the criminal charges....
Continue ReadingHow does custody work in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania?
A custody action is initiated by someone filing a custody complaint. The complaint is prepared by an attorney and signed by one of the parties seeking custody. A parent, grandparent or even a third party may file for custody. The complaint is filed in the Prothonotary’s Office and served on...
Continue ReadingShould you hire an attorney after your first DUI
You may think that you do not need an attorney after your first DUI arrest. Many times, people believe they do not have options and take whatever sentence is handed to them. However, besides assistance in defending your case, an attorney can assist in several situations you will be faced...
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