Do You Need an Attorney to Represent You?

in Alimony, Child Custody, Child Support, Divorce Law News, Family Law, Lawyer’s Advice, Legal Advice

Attorneys cost money, and rightly so. They have spent years getting a legal education and then passing stiff state exams in order to practice law. And, if that isn't enough, attorneys must continually keep mindful of ever changing laws and regulations. Too, there is the expense of an office, a staff, and the myriad of expectations put on an attorney socially as well as professionally. Most people like to keep as much money as they can, so when it comes to legal matters, there is a great temptation to omit the use of an attorney and go it alone. Sometimes this...

05 April

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Tips to Prepare for Your Day in Court

Posted by Grant Gisondo

in Alimony, Child Custody, Child Support, Divorce Law News, Family Law, Lawyer’s Advice, Legal Advice, Time Sharing

Going to court is often a scary thought, especially when you really have to go to court. Depending on your personal ability to handle stress can make a difference. There are, however, several tips for even the self-assured person to consider as he or she prepares for their day in court. Probably the most important tip is to make sure you understand what you and your attorney hope to achieve. In other words, what outcomes are you looking for, and what strategy does your attorney plan to take. Just letting your attorney fly alone can be a let-down if you...

11 November

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Save Those Text Messages: Electronic Evidence

Posted by Grant Gisondo

in Divorce Law News, Family Law, Legal Advice, Uncategorized

Electronic evidence is fast becoming a vital part of testimony in a courtroom. In fact, cases have been lost or won on the basis of electronic evidence. These facts may sound scary, especially to those over 60, but they are a reality and must be taken seriously. Evidence, once it has been authenticated, can be used in the court. However, if a judge deems that the e-mail or phone text message is not able to be authenticated, or is hearsay, the resulting messages will be ruled inadmissible. So what precautions should a person take to avoid having electronic evidence tossed...

Save Those Text Messages Electronic Evidence

30 October

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The Dangers of Not Following Your Lawyers Advice

Posted by Grant Gisondo

in Divorce Law News, Family Law, Legal Advice, Uncategorized

The Dangers of Not Following Your Lawyers Advice

As with any situation where you have asked for advice and then decide not to follow it, there will usually be consequences. The effect of not following your lawyer’s advice, however, can really make a difference in the desired outcome of your case. Here are some likely consequences that may occur: Probably first and foremost is the fact that by not following your lawyer’s advice, you significantly harm the lawyer-client relationship. Your lawyer is working hard for you, and when you decide to no longer pay attention or listen to his or her advice, you give the impression you no longer...

18 October

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All About an Annulment in Florida

Posted by Grant Gisondo

in Family Law, Legal Advice, Uncategorized

What is an annulment? According to the online legal dictionary, an annulment is “A judgment by a court that retroactively invalidates a marriage to the date of its formation.” In other words, legally, there never was a marriage between the two parties. In Florida, there are definite grounds an annulment can be obtained, and there is a legal process to follow when desiring such an outcome. It is interesting to note that an annulment is often more complicated and more expensive than a divorce. Let’s take a look at both the grounds and the process. Grounds: • One spouse is still married...

07 October

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Google, a Clients Worst Enemy

Posted by Grant Gisondo

in Family Law, Legal Advice, Uncategorized

There are few people today who are not familiar with a computer and/or phone on which they can search the web via Google to find answers for almost any question they can imagine. While this is an excellent source of information and often very helpful, it can also be a detriment to getting answers that are really the truth. In the area of information regarding legal issues, Google can sometimes be misleading. From an attorney’s standpoint, Google can be a client's worst enemy. When an attorney is handling a case for a client, he or she will have the education needed...

22 July

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Why Hiring an Attorney Before Your Case is Filed is a Good Idea?

Posted by Grant Gisondo

in Divorce Law News, Family Law, Legal Advice, Uncategorized

Probably the reason most people wait until the last minute to hire an attorney is the cost. Many attorneys charge by the quarter-hour, and this can add up fast when having a conversation regarding a case not yet underway. While this is true, there are reasons it is a good idea to hire an attorney before your case is filed. Here are some of them: • An attorney can help you sort out the details of a case required to handle your concern such as a divorce, bankruptcy, or child support. • As detailed financial documents will be required, an attorney can...