Successfully Managing the Holidays Post Divorce

Navigating the holidays post divorce can be challenging for families. Splitting time, adjusting traditions, and managing emotions often add layers of complexity to an already busy time of year. However, with thoughtful planning and a focus on your family’s well-being, it’s possible to create meaningful, joyful holiday memories.

Two insightful articles, “Holidays After Divorce: How to Plan for Joy” from The New York Times and “Divorced for the Holidays: What to Give the Kids” from the Child Mind Institute, provide valuable guidance for divorced families during the holidays. Below is a summary of their key ideas.

Focus on Your Children’s Needs

  • Both articles emphasize the importance of centering the holiday experience on your children. Divorce may be difficult for them to process, especially during this time of year, when traditions and routines are disrupted. The Child Mind Institute’s article suggests being mindful of their emotional needs and providing reassurance for navigating the holidays post divorce. Avoid exposing them to parental conflict, and instead focus on creating a warm, stable atmosphere.
  • Key Tip: Collaborate with your co-parent to agree on holiday plans that prioritize your children’s happiness and emotional security.

Be Flexible with Schedules and Traditions

  • The New York Times article highlights the need for flexibility when planning holiday schedules. Splitting time between parents often means rethinking long-standing traditions, which is an important step in navigating the holidays post divorce. While it’s natural to grieve the loss of old routines, this transition offers an opportunity to build new, meaningful traditions that reflect your family’s current circumstances.
  • Key Tip: Involve your children in choosing or creating new traditions, helping them feel empowered and excited about the holidays.

Prioritize Communication with Your Co-Parent

  • Effective communication is essential for co-parenting during the holidays. As the Child Mind Institute explains, clear and respectful communication helps avoid misunderstandings and minimizes tension. Use tools like shared calendars or written agreements to keep plans organized and reduce last-minute conflicts.
  • Key Tip: Stay flexible and open to compromise to ensure the holiday season remains harmonious.

Manage Expectations

  • Both articles underscore the importance of managing expectations—for yourself and your children. The New York Times notes that divorce reshapes family dynamics, so it’s crucial to approach the holidays with realistic goals. Accept that things may not go perfectly and focus on creating a positive environment rather than aiming for an idealized version of the holidays.
  • Key Tip: Embrace imperfection and focus on the small moments of joy rather than striving for perfection.

Give Thoughtful, Non-Material Gifts

  • The Child Mind Institute article emphasizes that meaningful holiday experiences often matter more than expensive gifts. Consider giving your children the gift of your time and attention—reading together, baking cookies, or watching a favorite movie can leave a*  lasting impact.
  • Key Tip: Focus on experiences and memories rather than material items.

David Knecht Law: Your Trusted Partner in Family Law
At the Law Office of David Knecht, we understand the unique challenges of divorce and co-parenting. Our experienced team is here to provide compassionate, expert guidance to help you navigate this journey. Contact us today at 707-451-4502 or visit our website to schedule a consultation.

Filed Under: Divorce Attorney, Divorce Lawyer, Divorce Planning, Fairfield Attorney, Fairfield Lawyer, Family Law, General, Vacaville Attorney, Vacaville Lawyer

Is California One of Fastest or Slowest States for Divorce?

If you are contemplating a California divorce, you may wonder how the process stacks up against other states. Reader’s Digest recently published an article comparing divorce in states across the Nation as being the fastest and slowest states for divorce.

This article summarizes some of the key points of this article and examines how California divorce compares.

Fastest States:

  • New Hampshire: Finalizes divorces in as little as 30 days with no mandatory separation period.
  • Alaska: Divorce can be completed in 30 to 45 days, with minimal residency requirements.
  • Nevada: Residency requirement of six weeks, fast process for uncontested divorces.

Slowest States:

  • Vermont: Divorce can take up to 450 days with a six-month separation period.
  • Rhode Island: May take 510 days due to long waiting periods.
  • Arkansas, South Carolina: Slower timelines due to mandatory separation periods and court backlogs.

How California Matches Up:

  • California did not make the list of fastest or slowest, but it is one of the slower states for divorce due to the six-month waiting period.
  • Unique aspects: California’s divorce laws can affect both the length and complexity of the process.
  • Six-month waiting period: Makes it one of the slower states for divorce, allowing time for reconsideration even if other issues are resolved.
  • No-fault divorce laws: Couples can cite irreconcilable differences without proving fault, unlike in states requiring evidence.
  • Community property rules: Can complicate divorces, as assets acquired during marriage are split equally, potentially leading to disputes over financial contributions.
  • Child custody and support: Determined based on the child’s best interests, with courts encouraging co-parenting, but disagreements may require court intervention and can potentially slow the process.
  • Summary dissolution: Offers a quicker resolution for short marriages, no children, and minimal property, though complex cases require careful legal handling.

Smart Moves to Speed Things Along:

  • Agree on key issues: Uncontested divorces, where couples agree on property division, child custody, and spousal support, move faster.
  • Complete paperwork accurately: Properly filing documents without errors can prevent unnecessary delays.
  • Consider mediation: Resolving disputes outside of court through mediation can expedite the process.
  • Use a streamlined process: If eligible, take advantage of summary dissolution.

Consult an Experienced Divorce Attorney

An experienced family law attorney can assist you to successfully navigate the divorce process in California. The attorneys here at the Law Offices of David Knecht are experienced in all aspects of family law and can help you succeed in getting the divorce terms you seek in an expeditious timeline. Serving Vacaville and Fairfield clients. Contact us today at 707-451-4502.  

Filed Under: Divorce Attorney, Divorce Lawyer, Fairfield Attorney, Fairfield Lawyer, Family Law, Vacaville Attorney, Vacaville Lawyer

The Most Expensive Celebrity Divorces of All Time

Do you think divorce is expensive? Well, it certainly can be for high net worth individuals.

“The Most Expensive (and Explosive) Celebrity Divorces of all Time” from People highlights some of the most financially significant divorces in Hollywood history. These high-profile separations often involve huge settlements, division of assets, and media attention.

  • Jeff Bezos & MacKenzie Scott:
    • The most expensive divorce in history.
    • Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon, and MacKenzie Bezos, now MacKenzie Scott, split in 2019 after 25 years of marriage.
    • The settlement: MacKenzie received $38 billion worth of Amazon stock, making her one of the richest women in the world.
    • Despite the staggering amount, the divorce was amicable, with MacKenzie announcing her intention to donate much of her wealth to charity through initiatives like the Giving Pledge.
  • Mel Gibson & Robyn Moore:
    • After 31 years of marriage, the couple divorced in 2011.
    • Mel Gibson’s net worth was reported to be over $850 million at the time.
    • Robyn received half of his fortune, approximately $425 million.
    • The divorce settlement remains one of the largest in Hollywood history.
  • Tiger Woods & Elin Nordegren:
    • Following Tiger Woods’ highly publicized cheating scandal, the couple divorced in 2010.
    • Elin Nordegren received a settlement of $100 million, along with custody of their two children.
    • This divorce also highlighted the impact of personal scandals on celebrity careers, as Tiger’s reputation and endorsements suffered greatly in the aftermath.
  • Michael Jordan & Juanita Vanoy:
    • The basketball legend and his wife divorced in 2006 after 17 years of marriage.
    • Juanita Vanoy was awarded $168 million in the settlement.
    • Despite the significant financial outcome, the couple had already separated once before in 2002, attempting reconciliation before the final divorce.
  • Arnold Schwarzenegger & Maria Shriver:
    • The couple ended their 25-year marriage in 2011 after it was revealed that Arnold had fathered a child with the family’s housekeeper.
    • The settlement is estimated to be around $250 to $300 million.
  • Steven Spielberg & Amy Irving:
    • The couple divorced in 1989 after four years of marriage.
    • Amy Irving received $100 million, one of the most substantial settlements of its time.
    • The prenuptial agreement between them was thrown out, as Irving claimed she had signed it without legal representation.
  • Harrison Ford & Melissa Mathison:
    • After 21 years of marriage, the couple divorced in 2004.
    • Melissa Mathison, a screenwriter, received $85 million.
    • She also secured future earnings from Ford’s films made during their marriage, a rare clause in divorce settlements.
  • Madonna & Guy Ritchie:
    • Madonna and British filmmaker Guy Ritchie divorced in 2008 after eight years of marriage.
    • The settlement was reported to be between $76 and $92 million.
    • Their divorce also included the division of properties in England and New York, as well as the custody of their children.
  • Paul McCartney & Heather Mills:
    • The former Beatle and Heather Mills had a famously contentious divorce in 2008.
    • Mills sought $250 million, but the court awarded her $48.6 million after just four years of marriage.
    • The case garnered massive media attention due to its bitter public exchanges and Mills’ demand for a large settlement.
  • Angelina Jolie & Brad Pitt:
    • While the financial details of their ongoing divorce have not been fully disclosed, their split involves millions in assets, properties, and the custody of their six children.
    • Their divorce, which began in 2016, has been highly publicized, especially regarding child custody disputes.
  • Rupert Murdoch & Anna Murdoch:
    • Media mogul Rupert Murdoch’s 1999 divorce from Anna Murdoch after 32 years of marriage cost him an estimated $1.7 billion.
    • Anna received $1.7 billion, including $110 million in cash.
    • Murdoch remarried 17 days after the divorce was finalized, further feeding media speculation.

Factors Contributing to Expensive Divorces:

  • Prenuptial agreements: While common among high-net-worth individuals, these agreements aren’t always ironclad. As seen in Spielberg’s divorce, prenuptials can be overturned in court if not properly executed.
  • Community property states: In California, where community property laws apply, spouses often split assets 50/50, leading to enormous settlements.
  • Child custody and support: Celebrities with children often face prolonged legal battles over custody, which can extend the divorce process and increase settlement amounts.
  • Public attention: Media scrutiny often exacerbates the intensity of celebrity divorces, with personal details leaked to the press, putting further pressure on both parties.

Consult an Experienced Family Law Attorney

These high-profile divorces illustrate how wealth, fame, and personal issues combine to create some of the most expensive separations in history. At David Knecht Law, we have extensive experience with family in California, but we also understand that many people want to get divorced without “breaking the bank.” We are dedicated to supporting you through every step of your legal case, and our experience helps us keep the fees reasonable. Contact us today at 707-451-4502 to learn more about how we can assist you.   

Filed Under: Divorce Attorney, Divorce Lawyer, Divorce Planning, Fairfield Attorney, Fairfield Lawyer, Family Law

Strangest Wills of All Time

Estate planning is typically a serious matter, with most wills being viewed as solemn and straightforward documents. However, history has its share of those that are anything but ordinary. From quirky requests to strange stipulations, some individuals have used their wills to express creativity and leave behind an unconventional—yet memorable—legacy. These distinctive demands are not only amusing but also underscore the significance of thoughtful estate planning. This article will examine some of the oddest estate planning choices of all time.

The billionaire who left 12 million to her dog

  • Leona Helmsley, a billionaire hotelier famously known as the “Queen of Mean,” caused a media storm when she left $12 million to her beloved Maltese dog, Trouble, after her death in 2007. However, a judge later reduced the amount to $2 million, as it was considered excessive. The funds were intended to ensure Trouble’s care, including a full-time security team due to death threats made against the dog. Trouble lived out the rest of her life comfortably, though on a reduced budget

Random inheritance

  • In one of the more unusual inheritance stories, Luis Carlos de Noronha Cabral da Camara, a Portuguese aristocrat, left his estate to 70 random strangers chosen from a Lisbon phone book. With no close family or friends, he made this unconventional choice when drafting his will in 1988. When he passed away in 2007, the selected beneficiaries were notified, many of whom initially thought it was a joke.

Mustache condition

Englishman Henry Budd who died in 1862 became famous for odd stipulation in his will. He left a significant inheritance to his sons with one peculiar condition: neither of them was ever allowed to grow a mustache.

Using a will to get even with a spouse

Samuel Bratt saw his chance to settle a score with his wife after his passing in 1960. Since she never allowed him to smoke during his lifetime, his will had a requirement that she would inherit £330,000 ($509,025) on one condition: she had to smoke five cigars a day.

Long wait “spite clause“

Industrialist Wellington Burt took inheritance delays to a whole new level. His will dictated that his heirs would have to wait 21 years after the death of his last surviving grandchild who was alive at the time of his death. This resulted in his heirs waiting 92 years before they could access his wealth.

A cat mansion

  • Dusty Springfield, an English singer who died in 1999, ensured that her beloved cat, Nicholas, would live in luxury after her death. Her will included detailed instructions, such as playing Nicholas’s favorite songs, feeding him imported baby food, and creating a specially furnished room for him, complete with a cat tree and a bed lined with Dusty’s nightgown.

Guinness World Record richest cat

  • In 1988, British antiques dealer Ben Rea left £7 million ($12.5 million) to his cat, Blackie, making him the world’s wealthiest cat—a record that still stands. Rea directed that his fortune be shared among three cat charities, with instructions to care for Blackie for the rest of his life.

Buried in a Pringles can

  • Fredric J. Baur, the inventor of the iconic Pringles can, passed away in 2008 and was cremated. Honoring his unique request, his family placed part of his ashes inside a Pringles can before burial.

Consult an Experienced Estate Planning Attorney

Whether you have traditional plans in mind, or whether you are looking to do something unique like some of the unusual choices discussed in this article, we are here to help! At David Knecht Law, we have extensive experience in estate planning and can help you create the plan that is just right for you and your loved ones. We focus on serving Vacaville and Fairfield clients. Contact us today at 707-451-4502.

  

Filed Under: California Estate Plan, Digital Estate Plan, Estate Planning, Fairfield Attorney, Fairfield Lawyer, Living Trust , Living Will, Probate Lawyer, Trust Administration Attorney , Vacaville Attorney, Vacaville Lawyer

Are Holographic Wills Valid in California?

A question that many aging adults have is whether a handwritten will is legally enforceable in California. This type of will is known as a holographic will, which is a written document written by hand (not typed on an electronic device device) without witnesses. This article delves into the legal analysis of holographic wills in California, providing an in-depth look at the relevant laws and a notable case, Newman v. Casey, which sheds light on this topic.

Legal Framework for Holographic Wills in California

In California, holographic wills are indeed recognized as valid under certain conditions, as outlined in California Probate Code § 6111. To be considered valid, a holographic will must meet the following criteria:

  • Handwritten and Signed by the Testator: The entire will or the material provisions must be in the handwriting of the testator. Additionally, the testator must sign the document.
  • Intent: The will must clearly indicate that the document is intended to serve as the testator’s will.
  • Date: While not strictly necessary, including the date is advisable. An undated holographic will can present complications if there is a question about its timing relative to other wills.

These requirements make holographic wills a viable option for individuals who prefer a simple and informal way of expressing their final wishes. However, due to the lack of formality, holographic wills can lead to disputes and legal challenges, particularly if the language is ambiguous. In California, while there is no strict limit on the situations in which a holographic will can be valid, it is essential that the document meets the fundamental requirements of handwriting, signature, and intent to be recognized by the court.

Newman v. Casey: A Landmark Case

Newman v. Casey, the landmark case involving holographic wills, was decided by the California Court of Appeal in 1995 and provides precedent regarding the validity of holographic wills. In this case, the court examined the holographic will of Jere P. Casey, which was contested by Patricia Newman and others.

Facts of the Case: Jere P. Casey wrote a holographic will that left his estate to his partner, Patricia Newman, and others. The will was handwritten, signed by Casey, and included material provisions that specified the distribution of his assets. However, the will lacked a date, leading to a dispute over its validity.

Court’s Decision: The court upheld the validity of Casey’s holographic will. It emphasized that while the absence of a date could complicate matters, it did not invalidate the will as long as the document clearly demonstrated the testator’s intent and was signed by the testator. The court found that Casey’s handwritten document met the essential requirements under California law.

Implications: The ruling in Newman v. Casey reaffirmed that the core elements of a holographic will—handwriting, signature, and clear intent—are paramount. It also highlighted that while the absence of a date may complicate matters, it does not necessarily render the will invalid unless there are competing wills or other disputes about timing.

Consult the Law Office of David Knecht

Even though a holographic will is a simple solution, there are typically limitations and weaknesses of a holographic will that make them less effective for estate planning than other more formal tools. Consulting with an experienced estate planning firm, such as the Law Office of David Knecht, can help address potential issues and ensure that your will meets all legal requirements. Seeking legal counsel is particularly important to minimize the risk of disputes and ensure clarity in the document. Contact us today at (707) 451-4502. Our experienced team is ready to assist you.

Filed Under: California Estate Plan, Estate Planning, Fairfield Attorney, Fairfield Lawyer, General

California Divorce 50/50 Custody Schedules

A 50/50 custody schedule, where parents share equal time with their child, is common in California. A 50/50 custody arrangement can be an ideal solution when both parents live close to one another and can easily coordinate schedules, ensuring the child maintains a stable routine. However, there are cases where couples cannot meaningfully share custody due to the distance between their residences. Co-parenting has become a prevalent reality for millions of parents in the U.S. A study published in Demographic Research discussing coparenting trends reveals that the percentage of divorces resulting in joint custody increased significantly from 13 percent in 1985 to 34 percent in the early 2010s with even more sharing custody today.

This article will focus on custody plans for parents who both live in California and discuss some of the most common 50/50 custody plans. Each of these options offers different benefits and challenges, depending on the child’s age, the parents’ work schedules, and their ability to cooperate.

Understanding Common 50/50 Custody Schedules

  1. 2-2-3 Plan: In this schedule, one parent has the child for two days, the other parent has the child for the next two days, and then the child returns to the first parent for a three-day weekend. The following week, the schedule reverses.
  • This plan works well for younger children who benefit from frequent contact with both parents.
  • It requires parents to live close to each other and maintain consistent communication.
  • It can be challenging for scheduling because one parent will have children on Monday and Tuesday for one week and then Wednesday and Thursday another week.
  1. Alternating Weeks: This plan involves the child spending one full week with one parent, followed by a full week with the other parent.
  • One benefit of this plan is fewer transfers and interactions with the other parent at transfers.
  • This plan provides a stable routine, especially for older children who can handle longer periods away from each parent.
  • However, it might be challenging for younger children who may struggle with not seeing one parent for an entire week.

 

  1. 3-4-4-3 Plan: In this schedule, the child spends three days with one parent, four days with the other parent, and then four days with the first parent, followed by three days with the second parent.
  • This plan balances the time spent with each parent over two weeks, providing more extended periods with each parent while still allowing for regular transitions.
  • This plan can be confusing since it is alternating.

Factors to Consider

Creating a successful 50/50 custody schedule requires careful consideration of several factors:

  • Child’s Age and Needs: Younger children often benefit from shorter, more frequent contact with both parents, while older children might prefer longer periods with each parent to establish routines. Consider the child’s school schedule, extracurricular activities, and any special needs.
  • Parents’ Work Schedules: A 50/50 custody schedule must align with both parents’ work commitments. Flexibility and a willingness to accommodate changes are essential to ensure the schedule works for everyone involved.
  • Parental Cooperation: A key to making any custody schedule work is effective communication between parents. The success of a 50/50 schedule depends on both parents’ ability to cooperate, make joint decisions, and prioritize the child’s well-being over any personal conflicts.
  • Distance Between Parents’ Homes: The closer the parents live to each other, the easier it is to manage a 50/50 custody schedule. Long distances can create logistical challenges, especially when considering the child’s school and social activities.

Legal Considerations

California courts prioritize the child’s best interests when determining custody arrangements. While a 50/50 schedule is common, it must be deemed beneficial for the child. Factors such as each parent’s living situation, the child’s relationship with each parent, and the ability to provide a stable environment all play roles in the court’s decision. Additionally, if parents cannot agree on a custody arrangement, the court may order a custody evaluation to assess the situation. The evaluator’s report can significantly influence the court’s final decision.

Getting Professional Help

Consulting with an experienced family law attorney can assist you navigating the complexities of child custody in a divorce. The attorneys here at the Law Office of David Knecht we are experienced in all aspects of family law and can help you. Contact us today at 707-451-4502.  

Filed Under: Divorce Attorney, Divorce Lawyer, Fairfield Attorney, Fairfield Lawyer, Family Law, Vacaville Attorney, Vacaville Lawyer

CUSTODY AND PARENTING IN SOLANO COUNTY DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC Custody and Parenting in Solano County During The COVID-19 Pandemic

 

The Solano County Superior Court has issued recommendations for custody and parenting during the COVID-19 pandemic. This article will summarize these recommendations as a helpful resource to parents who are navigating custody and parenting during these challenging times. For the complete list of recommendations, go to https://www.solano.courts.ca.gov/materials/SSC_EO/Notice_to_Parents_Regarding_Custody_and_Parenting_Time_During_COVID-19_Pandemic.pdf. 

1. Vacation/Holidays Are As If Children Were Still Attending School.  

If schools are closed, parenting time shall continue as if children are still attending school and the closure of school for COVID-19 shall not be considered an extension of any break/vacation/weekend.  

 

  • COVID-19 Should Not Be the Sole Basis For Denying Time. 

 

Generally, COVID-19 should not be the sole reason to deny parenting time and the presumption is that parents are considered fit to make day-to-day decisions about the children, with the recommendation that parents follow state and local guidance on social distancing and sanitation. 

 

  •  Parenting Time in Public is Not Prohibited If Locations Are Permitted Under State Guidelines. 

 

If state guidelines allow for the public to be in a place, such as a public park, then parenting time in such places is not prohibited.  However, parents are encouraged to avoid locations such as parks and play equipment where virus transmission via contact would be risky.  If safe parenting time in public is not possible, then videoconferencing or telephone visits should be made available. 

2. Parties Should Work Collaboratively Where Supervised Parenting Time Is Not Available.

If a supervisor is not available due to COVID-19 or government orders for supervised parenting time, the parties should work together to make sure that the parenting time is effectuated in a way that is conducive to their children’s safety and well being, and parties may consider videoconferencing or telephone visits. 

 

  •  Travel Should Be Limited 

 

Travel should be limited to essential activities, which include caring for minors, dependents and family members. 

 

  •  CDC Guidelines Should Be Followed During Exchanges

When children are being exchanged, all parties should follow the CDC guideline for limiting the spread of the virus.  This means making reasonable changes in light of the risk, which may be choosing an alternate place for exchanges with fewer people.  

 

  •  Be Aware of Other Needs for First Responders When Calling for Parenting Disputes

 

Parents are encouraged to consider the need for first responders to be available for emergencies and support related to the COVID-19 outbreak. 

 

  •  Communication and Transparency are Encouraged During the pandemic

 

Parents are encouraged to work together and talk about the precautions they are taking to protect their children.  However, a parent cannot deny parenting time to another parent who does not want to discuss safety measures or on the basis that one parent thinks the other is not taking enough precautions. 

3. Parents are Encouraged to Schedule Makeup Parenting Time: 

Parents are encouraged to collaborate to schedule make up parenting time for time that was missed due to COVID-19 or other government orders.  Parents should prioritize their children’s health and safety and work together to create a plan that promoted the best interests of their children.  

 

Filed Under: Fairfield Lawyer, Family Law, Vacaville Attorney

Trust Auto Accident Attorneys to get you out of Misery

Auto accidents claim hundreds of lives every year. You could also be injured to an extent where you are hospitalized for a long time. Other people lose their source of livelihood and are forced to depend on their next of kin. An accident could leave you traumatized. Suddenly, you are faced with a huge hospital bill. This coupled with the fact that you were the family’s sole breadwinner can lead to a lot of emotional pressure. There is reprieve in the knowledge that you are entitled to some form of compensation. 

In order to wage a good fight for compensation, you need the help of auto accident attorneys. Here is a look at how an experienced lawyer can get you out of misery:

  • Legal assistance: An auto accident attorney is a professional who has gone to school and gained the relevant legal knowledge. Law is such a broad subject. Most attorneys prefer to specialize in respective areas such as divorce, personal injury and auto accidents. By engaging an accident attorney, you will get a chance to fight for your rights. The attorney will confront the insurance company as well as the vehicle owner. If no settlement can be arrived at, the attorney will push for the matter to go to court. Once the case is before a judge, your attorney can seek for compensation on your behalf.
  • Loss of income: When you are injured as a result of an auto accident, you may not be able to continue working as before. The injury requires medical attention. Upon leaving hospital, you have to stay at home in order to recuperate. All this time, your family will be deprived of an income which they rely on in order to survive. A good and experienced attorney will bring this to the attention of the judge and press for an adequate compensation. This is meant to cushion your family from the exposure of not having an income. It will also help keep all of you above the water.
  • Medical bills: Nowadays, most people use medical insurance to take care of their hospital visits. The nature of injuries sustained can deal a big blow to your cover or even exhaust it totally. Apart from the hospital fee, you have to pay doctors and finance the cost of drugs. Even after being discharged from hospital, you may require specialized care. All these should not have arisen had the person driving the car that hit you been extra careful. By extension, it is his/her responsibility to take care of you. With an attorney, you can claim a refund of what you have spent.
  • Suffering: Nothing can be equated to what you have been going through after the accident. You have been through a lot of pain, trauma and sometimes, feelings of hopelessness.  In order to help you get back on your feet, auto accident attorneys will see to it that the courts award you a reasonable settlement.

 

Filed Under: Fairfield Attorney, Fairfield Lawyer

Why an Accident Attorney is Your Best Bet When Tackling Personal Injury Suits

Being involved in an auto accident is a harrowing experience. It leaves you with not only physical injuries but with mental trauma as well. Besides, there are hospital bills to pay which eats into your finances. If the injuries are serious, you could be out of work for weeks or even months. Some people may be quick to give you all manner of advice. There are those who will tell you to take whatever compensation the insurance company will offer. The best advice you should listen to is that from someone telling you to consult an accident attorney. Here’s why:

The Severity of The Accident

If the accident is a minor one, going to an attorney might not be necessary. You can negotiate between yourselves and agree. Such agreements can help resolve matters and end it there. However, where the accident is severe and you have had to be taken to hospital, you cannot just settle for any amount. You need the intervention of a legal expert.

Benefits Factor

A car accident attorney understands the legal aspects of personal injuries resulting from auto accidents. He can wriggle through the bottlenecks associated with insurers. You must always bear in mind the fact that insurance companies are out to make a profit. Much as they would be willing to compensate you, the amount may not be in proportion to the injuries sustained. With assistance from an attorney, you can get a fair amount. He will fight tooth and nail to see to it that you are adequately compensated.

The Contingency Element

Law firms normally charge their fees on a contingent basis. The attorneys who specialize in this area do not charge their clients any fees while the cases are in progress. However, they will wait until the aggressor or a court awards you compensation. Once the money is released, they take out a certain percentage to cover their legal and processing fees. This puts you at an advantage because the attorney will have a direct interest in your case.

Where You Are Accused of Responsibility

This can be very tricky for you. It is also ironic in the sense that you are the injured person yet the other party accuses you of being responsible. Before an insurance claim is paid, the company must first ascertain who was responsible. The severity of the accident does not matter. Without a lawyer to speak for you, chances of being compensated are almost nil.  That is why you need to speak to an attorney immediately after you have been involved in an accident.

 

 

Filed Under: Fairfield Lawyer, General Legal Advice, Vacaville Attorney

What Makes a California Lawyer You Can Trust

At David Knecht Law, we focus on providing our clients with honest and reliable legal services. Whether you are in need of a lawyer for family law or a lawyer for estate planning, our experienced team is here to help. We are one of the leading law firms in the Vacaville area. Our attorneys are here to guide you through your legal case, ensuring you have the right team on your side to provide you with sound advice. When you are facing any legal case, it is important to do your research and find a lawyer who will focus on offering a number of options, while encouraging you with your endeavors. Here are four things you need to consider as you seek out legal counsel.

Lawyer Experience and Expertise

One of the things you need to discuss with the lawyer is the amount of experience they have with cases similar to yours. While some lawyers have experience in multiple facets of family law, do all of them have experience with difficult divorce cases? Do they have experience in the courtroom with cases like yours? How about cases dealing with child custody issues? It is vital to spend time looking for someone who has dealt with cases like yours, and has had successful outcomes.

Communication Skills

Another thing to look for with legal cases is to focus on an attorney with excellent communication skills. If you have someone that doesn’t do well in handling communication via email, phone, or text, you may want to consider a different lawyer. It pays to hire someone you know will answer your calls and will be diligent in replying to you. If the lawyer doesn’t respond in a timely manner, it can lead to frustration and a general wondering of what is happening. Some law firms have legal assistants who will focus on replying to general inquiries and making sure their clients are in the know.

Discuss Legal Fees

The legal fees of the law firm are another important element to consider as you look at your options. Some law firms will charge for each email, text message, and phone call. Other law firms do a flat rate fee. It all depends on your case, and what you need from the law firm. Typically law offices will have you come in for a free consultation about your case, and will determine the fee amount based on the potential outcomes of your case.

Look at Client Reviews

Another way to know you have a good lawyer is to look at their client reviews. What are people saying about them? How well have they worked for other clients in the past? It is important to look into online reviews, and ask around to hear word of mouth and find out what people think about them in the area. Check with the California Bar Association as they too have information about the attorney and their win-loss record along with client reviews.

Consult with several attorneys before you hire someone to represent you. Failure to find the right lawyer can leave you in a difficult situation. It pays to work with experienced, trustworthy professionals who always put you first. Contact the Law Offices of David Knecht today to schedule a consultation.

 

Filed Under: Fairfield Attorney, Fairfield Lawyer, Vacaville Attorney, Vacaville Lawyer
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