The Shapiro Law FirmPlano Criminal Defense Attorneys | Collin County Family Law | The Shapiro Law Firm2024-03-08T04:12:35Zhttps://www.theshapirolawfirm.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1201343/2020/12/cropped-Capture-32x32.pngOn Behalf of The Shapiro Law Firmhttps://www.theshapirolawfirm.com/?p=504672024-03-08T04:12:35Z2024-03-08T04:12:35ZUnderstand what you're getting into
There are several ways to reach a divorce settlement such as mediation, litigation or through a series of private talks with your spouse. All of these options have various timelines, costs and other variables to take into account before engaging in them. Regardless of the route that you take to get your divorce, it's important to be organized. The more information you have, the easier it can be to justify a request for spousal support, the family home or other resources.
Separate needs and wants
Prior to the start of settlement talks or trial, you should make a list of things that you can't live without. For instance, you may decide that you want funds in a joint account to make it easier to take care of your child. However, you may also decide that while you want the family home, it isn't something that you need to survive. In such a scenario, you might consider ceding the home in exchange for possession of the joint bank account.
Don't forget to process your emotions
A divorce is often seen as similar to a death in the family in that you're grieving the loss of someone important to you. You may experience a number of emotions such as regret, anger or relief that you're finally letting go of a toxic part of your life.
While a divorce may be an emotionally taxing event, a settlement is based on objective facts. Therefore, getting a quality settlement typically means organizing documents, negotiating in good faith and staying calm during divorce proceedings in an effort to get what you want or need.]]>On Behalf of The Shapiro Law Firmhttps://www.theshapirolawfirm.com/?p=504612024-02-07T20:18:42Z2024-02-08T20:17:52ZDefining "intent to sell/distribute"
According to the Texas Controlled Substances Act, distributing a substance means delivering it other than by administering or dispensing the substance. In other words, having an "intent to sell or distribute" means that there is evidence to suggest that a person has drugs in their possession for reasons other than personal use.
The quantity of drugs can be one example of such evidence. The presence of packaging materials, large sums of cash or paraphernalia commonly associated with drug distribution can also contribute to establishing intent.
Consequences of drug trafficking in Texas
The consequences of a drug trafficking conviction in Texas are severe and can have a lasting impact on your life. The legal penalties vary based on the type and amount of drugs involved, but they typically include substantial fines and lengthy prison sentences. For example, a drug trafficking offense that escalates to a first-degree felony entails a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years in prison.
Ultimately, having an "intent to sell or distribute" means possessing drugs for purposes beyond personal use. Severe instances of drug distribution can escalate to a felony drug trafficking charge, bringing life-changing consequences.]]>On Behalf of The Shapiro Law Firmhttps://www.theshapirolawfirm.com/?p=504652024-02-07T23:43:54Z2024-02-07T23:43:54ZStaying together for the kids
If you have children, you may consider postponing your divorce. Many people stay together for the sake of their children, but that’s not always the best approach to take. When estranged couples stay committed to parenting, children can recover from divorce. In fact, remaining in a toxic or hostile marriage can cause more harm to your children.
Communicating effectively
If you’re going through a divorce, you may wonder how to break the news to your children. That’s where communication becomes essential. Open communication is essential during a divorce, especially with regard to children.
However, choosing what and how you communicate about your decision is important. If you have young children, it’s a good idea to keep the communication as simple as possible. If you have older children, you can go into more detail about the separation and divorce. It’s also important that you prepare yourself for questions.
Maintaining normalcy during separation
Children go through a lot of changes during a divorce. Depending on the situation, your children may change homes, schools, and friend groups. Maintaining normalcy during the separation and divorce can help your children thrive.
Divorce can become stressful for children. With careful consideration, your children can thrive.]]>On Behalf of The Shapiro Law Firmhttps://www.theshapirolawfirm.com/?p=504632024-02-07T23:41:33Z2024-02-07T23:41:33ZReporting requirements
If you are a pilot, you must report the drunk driving offense to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) authorities in Oklahoma City within 60 days. Failure to do so could result in the suspension of any certifications or other credentials that you currently have. However, it's worth noting that simply being taken into custody for drunk driving in itself isn't necessarily enough to lose your license.
Multiple offenses may ruin your career
Multiple DWI offenses within a period of three years can result in your license being taken away by the FAA. It's also possible that your license won't be renewed or that any future applications for one will be denied. Additionally, you may be subject to greater legal penalties such as a jail sentence of up to one year for a second DWI conviction.
You might not be able to get to work
There is a strong possibility that you will lose your driver's license as part of a DWI conviction. While you may be able to obtain a provisional license, there is no guarantee that this will happen. Therefore, you could be at risk of losing your job even if your license remains intact if you aren't able to get to the airport when you're scheduled to be there.
A DWI charge does not mean that you have committed a crime, and you will be given an opportunity to cast doubt on the government's case. It may be possible to claim that there were issues with a Breathalyzer test or that other evidence was obtained improperly. This may be enough to have the charge dismissed before a trial or to obtain an acquittal.]]>On Behalf of The Shapiro Law Firmhttps://www.theshapirolawfirm.com/?p=504402023-12-07T20:11:15Z2023-12-07T20:11:15ZThe transparency of open adoption
Open adoptions provide an opportunity for the adoptive family and the birth family to maintain contact. Both parties receive contact information for direct interaction, including visits, phone calls and the exchange of letters or emails. This creates an environment where the child gets to build a relationship with both parents.
The privacy of a closed adoption
Sometimes privacy takes priority over building a relationship. In those cases, a closed adoption may offer the best solution. This process secures the personal information of both the adoptive and birth parents so that neither party receives any details. The adoption is typically facilitated through a third party in these cases, which is usually an adoption agency.
The balance of a semi-open adoption
Semi-open adoption provides a balance between the complete transparency of open adoption and the information lockdown of closed adoption. In this process, both parents rely on intermediaries for communication. In many instances, parents send information through the adoption agency. This helps to preserve some level of confidentiality without sacrificing valuable information exchange.
More than 95,000 adoptions happened in the United States in 2020. Each of those adoption journeys was unique, as is yours. Consider the type of situation that works best for your family and your goals.]]>On Behalf of The Shapiro Law Firmhttps://www.theshapirolawfirm.com/?p=504392023-12-05T01:34:23Z2023-12-05T01:34:23Z1. Educational hurdles
A drug conviction can disrupt the academic journey of a college student, leading to disciplinary actions or even expulsion. The aftermath involves a struggle to regain academic standing, as the student grapples with the repercussions of their choices. Class attendance, grades and overall performance may suffer, creating a domino effect that hinders the pursuit of a degree.
2. Social strain
The stigma attached to a drug conviction can strain social relationships on campus. Friends and peers may distance themselves, fearing association with legal troubles. This isolation can be emotionally challenging for the student, impacting their mental well-being.
3. Limited opportunities
A drug conviction can limit a student's access to various opportunities. Internships, study abroad programs and extracurricular activities become elusive, hindering the development of valuable skills and experiences. The stain on their record may also deter potential employers, reducing job prospects upon graduation.
4. Financial fallout
The financial implications of a drug conviction are substantial. Legal fees, fines and the potential loss of scholarships or financial aid can place a heavy burden on a student's finances. Moreover, the diminished earning potential resulting from limited career opportunities can create a long-term financial setback.
Every year, 1.16 million arrests involving drugs occur in the U.S. While the experience can seem overwhelming, the right defense may help minimize the lasting impact.]]>On Behalf of The Shapiro Law Firmhttps://www.theshapirolawfirm.com/?p=504052023-10-20T22:59:58Z2023-10-20T22:59:58Z1. Marital duration
The length of your marriage significantly influences the alimony decision. The courts are more likely to consider alimony for longer marriages. In Texas divorce cases, a marriage enduring 10 years or more is often viewed as a critical milestone for this purpose.
2. Income disparity
Income disparity is an important consideration in the alimony determination. When one spouse earns substantially more than the other, it can bolster the case for spousal support. The court assesses the financial requirements and capabilities of both individuals.
3. Contributions during marriage
The court also evaluates the contributions both spouses made throughout the marriage. These contributions encompass financial support as well as non-financial contributions, such as taking care of children or managing household responsibilities. Such contributions can have an impact on the alimony determination.
4. Property division
The division of marital property intertwines with alimony. The court may consider the property awarded to each spouse and factor that into the alimony decision.
While Texas had one of the lowest divorce rates in 2021 at 1.4 per 1,000 residents, many couples know that parting ways is best for both parties. For those seeking to end a marriage, alimony may or may not be part of the final settlement.]]>On Behalf of The Shapiro Law Firmhttps://www.theshapirolawfirm.com/?p=504002023-10-13T20:19:33Z2023-10-13T20:19:33ZStand your ground
Texas, like many other states, adheres to this principle when it comes to self-defense. The basis of this idea is that you do not have to remove yourself from a situation when you face a threat. Instead, when a threatening person confronts you, you have the right to retaliate.
Castle doctrine
Texas also has a castle doctrine, which extends the stand-your-ground principle to your home, vehicle or any place you have a legal right to be. Under this doctrine, you do not have to leave a situation when facing an intruder or an imminent threat, and you have the legal right to defend yourself in these spaces.
Use of deadly force
The use of deadly force, even in self-defense, is subject to certain conditions. To legally use deadly force in self-defense, you must reasonably believe that it is necessary to protect yourself or another person from an immediate threat of serious bodily harm or death.
Retreat as a factor
Although there is no legal duty to retreat under the law, the option to retreat may still become a consideration in a self-defense case. The absence of a duty to retreat does not mean that staying and using force is always the best course of action. Factors like your location, the threat level and your ability to safely escape can play a role in determining the reasonableness of your actions in court.
Another important aspect is the concept of using proportional force. This means that the force you use should be reasonably necessary to counteract the threat you face.
Texas self-defense laws do not include a legal duty to retreat. However, understanding the nuances of the law is essential when protecting yourself to ensure you are acting within the law.]]>On Behalf of The Shapiro Law Firmhttps://www.theshapirolawfirm.com/?p=503792023-09-21T18:22:24Z2023-09-21T18:22:24ZOpen communication
Start by having an open and honest conversation with your child. Encourage them to share their thoughts, feelings and concerns about the DUI charge. Listen attentively without judgment and let them know that you are there to support them.
Understanding the consequences
Help your child understand the potential consequences of a DUI charge. Discuss the legal penalties such as fines, license suspension and potential jail time. Emphasize how a DUI can impact their future, including employment opportunities and college eligibility.
Seek professional help
Encourage your child to seek professional help if they have issues with alcohol or substance abuse. A DUI charge can be a wake-up call, but also a chance to address any underlying problems. Consider connecting them with a counselor, therapist or support group to assist in their recovery.
Positive reinforcement
Celebrate your child's successes and progress, no matter how small. Recognize and acknowledge their efforts to make better choices and move forward. Positive reinforcement can boost their confidence and motivation to continue on a positive path.
Statistics show that an average of 37 people die in drunk driving accidents per day in the United States. When a minor realizes the gravity of this figure and the legal consequences of their actions, it can affect them in severe ways. Parents have a central role to play in helping their kids learn a lesson and move past their mistakes.]]>On Behalf of The Shapiro Law Firmhttps://www.theshapirolawfirm.com/?p=503522023-08-30T22:54:47Z2023-08-30T22:54:47ZTrace the paper trail
One method commonly used in asset tracing involves following the paper trail of financial records. This includes examining bank statements, tax returns, investment records and other financial documents. This method can identify discrepancies, hidden accounts and irregular financial activities.
Search for digital footprints
Digital forensics is now a significant aspect of asset tracing. Digital footprints, such as email communications, electronic payment records and online transactions, can provide valuable insights into hidden assets or financial moves.
Examine tangible assets
Tangible assets, including real estate properties, vehicles and valuable personal belongings, can also be subject to asset tracing. One partner might transfer, sell or re-title an asset to cover up its ownership. Investigating property records and ownership transfers helps ensure that there is a proper account of all marital assets.
The importance of expert involvement
According to CNBC, around 20% of individuals, which are mostly men, use or invest in cryptocurrency, which makes it even more difficult to trace assets. As a result, Forbes recommends specialists in forensic accounting, digital forensics and financial investigation play an important role in uncovering unknown assets.
Asset tracing can be an important aspect of high-asset divorces. The thorough examination of everything related to assets, coupled with the expertise of professionals in the field, contributes to financial transparency.]]>