Embryo adoption may be a viable choice for some families. This option may allow couples that are having difficulty or are not able to conceive naturally to carry and give birth to a child. The process is also a much less expensive than in vitro fertilization because most of the costs involved in IVF have already been taken care of.
]]> Once a couple has decided to go forward with the adoption, they are able to choose an embryo provided by donors. The donor couples are usually those that have previously gone through the in vitro fertilization process. They have the option to freeze any left-over embryos, and those embryos can be adopted by other potential parents. After choosing a donor, the embryos are implanted into the uterus through IVF.Even though the child is not related by blood to the one who delivered him or her, it allows the person to experience both pregnancy and childbirth. For some couples, this may be the best way to start or expand a family. Speaking to a family law attorney may help couples in Alabama wishing to adopt a child to decide the best course of action. An attorney may also be able to help adoptive parents to negotiate the terms of an open adoption.
Source: sheknows.com, "Why Embryo Adoption Was the Best Option for This Family", Elizabeth Yuko, Nov. 9, 2017
]]>Authorities were told by witnesses that a collision occurred involving two cars at the intersection of two highways. A car traveling north on U.S. Hwy. 331 allegedly ran a red light and crashed into another car traveling on Alabama Hwy. 299. The first car contained the driver and two passengers, and the second car contained the driver and one passenger.
]]> Two of the passengers were pronounced dead at the scene. One was the passenger sitting in the back seat of the vehicle considered at fault, and the other was the passenger of the second vehicle. The Opp Police Department revealed that the driver and passenger of the first vehicle were taken to Mizell Memorial Hospital, and the second driver was airlifted to Southeast Medical Center. Authorities are still investigating the crash.Traffic laws are put in place to help prevent as many motor vehicle accidents as possible. When they are ignored, the results can be disastrous. Speaking with an attorney may benefit Alabama residents who have been victims of an accident. An attorney can help his or her clients to receive the compensation that they deserve.
Source: dothaneagle.com, "Weekend vehicle accident in Opp kills two, sends three to hospital", Michelle Watson, Oct. 30, 2017
]]>Infidelity is one major reason why some couples get divorced. A person may cheat in order to feel an emotional connection with someone else if he or she feels disconnected with his or her spouse, or it may be a mistake made while inebriated. In any case, this may cause irreparable damage to a relationship.
]]> Money can also be a major source of stress in a relationship. A difference in spending habits can cause fighting amongst couples. One spouse may have significantly more expensive tastes than the other. How much each spouse makes may also become a source of conflict. It is possible in some cases for one spouse to become resentful of the other's success over time.There are also cases where extraordinary circumstances can cause even strong marriages to fall apart. A parent that has experienced the death of a child may find it difficult to continue living with the person that serves as a constant reminder of the child he or she has lost. In some cases, a medical diagnosis, like cancer, may also cause long-time spouses to separate. Some people may not feel that they are able to endure the financial, emotional or even the physical stress of living with a partner suffering from a severe illness.
Of course, these are only a few of the reasons why couples choose to divorce. Some couples may discover that they don't know each other as well as they originally thought. They might find out that their spouse has a hidden addiction or that their religious or moral beliefs are too different from one another. In any case, individuals in Alabama seeking a divorce may consider contacting a professional. Attorneys may help clients to communicate effectively so that assets can be divided fairly and any custody agreements can be made in a timely and civil manner.
Source: today.com, "6 major reasons why people divorce", Bela Gandhi, Oct. 25, 2017
]]>Fortunately, even though authorities may assert that you engaged in fraudulent behavior, it does not mean you are automatically guilty in the eyes of the law. Prosecutors have to prove a fraud accusation before a conviction can happen in Alabama.
]]> What is fraud?Committing fraud involves intentionally deceiving someone or some entity for personal or monetary gain. A fraud offense always includes deceitful conduct, a false statement or misrepresentation.
The following elements are necessary to prove a fraud charge:
The penalties for a fraud offense depend on the nature, scope and level of severity of the act. A conviction can result in time behind bars, probation, a fine or all of these punishments.
What your attorney can do
Fraud offenses come in many forms, including bankruptcy, wire, securities, insurance or even credit card fraud, for example. If you face a fraud charge, your attorney will scrutinize the evidence that the prosecution plans to provide to support the allegation, looking for holes in it. In addition, your attorney can work with professionals such as forensic accountants and financial analysts when needed to create for you a strong defense.
In some cases, the weight of the prosecution's evidence is strong enough that you may benefit from seeking to negotiate a plea agreement, which may lead to a lighter charge and thus a more lenient sentence than what would follow a guilty finding at trial. Your attorney's ultimate goal if you are facing a fraud accusation is to help to preserve your rights while pursuing the most personally favorable outcome for you considering the circumstances surrounding your case.
]]>There were two people in the car when it crashed, the driver and a passenger. The car was traveling around 105 miles per hour when the driver veered across two lanes of traffic from the left lane. The car finally came to a stop in a ditch after hitting a utility pole. The impact broke the pole at its base, and the transformer blew, which caused sparks to ignite the gasoline leaking from the car's tank.
]]> When authorities arrived on the scene, they saw that the passenger had been thrown from the vehicle. She was pronounced dead at the scene. However, the driver was still alive and was taken to Huntsville Hospital for treatment. Doctors sent a blood sample from the driver to the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences in order to test for drugs. These tests eventually revealed that the driver was under the influence of multiple controlled substances at the time of the crash.He was arrested a year later after the tests confirmed the presence of drugs. It has also been discovered that this is not his first offense. The driver of the car was reportedly on probation for another drug-related charge. Since his arrest, the judge has been asked to declare the defendant delinquent on his probation due not only to this crash but also because of his failure to attend a drug treatment program and his failed drug tests.
It may take time for victims of motor vehicle accidents to see progress in their cases. However, Alabama residents may still find it beneficial to seek the advice of a professional early. An attorney can help to see that all of the necessary information is accounted for and that the victims and their families have the best chance to receive compensation.
Source: al.com, "Huntsville man charged in fatal 105-mph crash; suspect accused of being on 'several' drugs", Ashley Remkus, Oct. 13, 2017
]]>If one is involved in a crash, no matter how minor, both motorists should contact the police either directly or through 9-1-1 if the crash is serious. Both drivers are encouraged to share insurance information while refraining from admitting any fault. Notations concerning weather and traffic conditions may prove to be useful during an investigation.
]]> The state has specific insurance requirements, and drivers who violate this law face suspension and fines. If one has suffered injuries or significant property damages in a collision, there are three options for recovering these damages. A victim can seek compensation through his or her insurance company, the at-fault driver's insurance provider or by filing a civil suit. Alabama is also a contributory negligence state, which means, if both drivers shared in the fault for an accident, neither party can recover damages.When an insurance adjuster attempts to enter into a settlement agreement with an injured party, a driver is not required to accept any offers until one has researched the value of one's property and what the estimated costs would be to repair or replace damaged property. Furthermore, state laws provide for injured parties to seek damages unrelated to economic losses such as physical pain and suffering. Victims who have been injured in motor vehicle accidents that were the fault of other drivers are entitled to seek the guidance of a seasoned personal injury attorney in order to file a thorough and comprehensive claim.
Source: FindLaw, "Alabama Car Accident Settlement Process and Timeline", Accessed on Oct. 19, 2017
]]>Whether or not a divorced spouse is entitled to spousal benefits depends largely on how long a marriage lasted. For example, a divorced spouse can typically claim benefits if the couple was married over 10 years. On the other hand, someone married less than 10 years could not claim spousal benefits.
]]> Other Social Security guidelines apply across the board, whether married or divorced. A person must be 62 years old before claiming spousal benefits. Someone can claim these benefits even if a former spouse hasn't claimed retirement benefits, which is different than the process for married couples. When a person remarries, he or she will lose the right to spousal benefits. However, even if an ex-spouse remarries, someone's benefits will remain unchanged.Survivor benefits are handled similarly to spousal benefits. The benefits are also dependent on at least a 10-year marriage. Also, the benefits are payable even if an ex-spouse remarries. However, if an individual remarries after age 60, the survivor benefits are not forfeited.
Dividing assets during a divorce can be a complicated process, whether or not Social Security benefits are an immediate concern. An Alabama divorce attorney can provide valuable guidance to someone going through a divorce. An experienced lawyer will act in a client's best interest and work toward achieving a favorable outcome in the proceedings.
Source: fool.com, "Divorced? Here's What You Need to Know About Social Security", Dan Caplinger, Oct. 12, 2017
]]>According to reports from the Decatur Police Department, a 51-year-old man had been investigated by the Vice and Narcotics Unit and found to have sold crystal methamphetamine. A search warrant had been obtained for his motel room by agents from the unit. Upon a search of the motel room, officers found a 39-year-old woman and a 22-year-old woman there. Police supposedly found meth, Klonopin pills with no prescription and hypodermic needles in the older woman's possession. While the search was underway, a 44-year-old woman came to the motel room with more Klonopin pills and an open container of alcohol.
]]> Police spotted the man for whom the search warrant had been issued nearby. According to officers, he tried to flee when they approached him. He was taken into custody after police allegedly discovered that he had meth, hypodermic needles and digital scales.The man was charged with possession of a controlled substance for meth, resisting arrest and possession of paraphernalia with the intent to use. The women face various charges, including illegal possession of prescription medication, possession of controlled substance for meth and an open container violation. One woman was charged with loitering in a drug house.
Being charged with drug crimes can significantly impact someone's life. An Alabama criminal defense attorney can help clients understand the charges they are facing and how best to challenge them. A knowledgeable lawyer will work toward minimizing the negative effect on someone's life.
Source: al.com, "4 arrested after drug bust at Decatur hotel room", Jonece Starr Dunigan, Oct. 4, 2017
]]>First, some spouses fight to keep the family home. However, with only one income going forward, that spouse may be unable to feasibly remain in the home. Some spouses are offered the right to stay in the home instead of receiving other assets valued the same. Advisers recommend taking the other assets since a home ultimately costs more since it has to be maintained.
]]> Also, while comparable assets may be equally valued, taxes can make the scales tip somewhat. For example, one spouse may get assets in a checking account and the other's assets are in a 401(k). The one with the checking account has a better deal since there are no fees for withdrawals. However, withdrawals from the 401(k) would incur taxes just like regular income.Spouses sometimes fail to get a qualified domestic relations order to get their designated part of a retirement account. This court order allows an individual to withdraw from the account with no penalty. Finally, if someone is receiving spousal or child support, it would be wise to have a life insurance policy on the ex-spouse since the income could be replace should that person die.
Dealing with financial issues during a divorce can prove to be complicated. It is helpful to seek the guidance of a respected Alabama divorce attorney. An experienced lawyer will help clients navigate the complexities of the process and work toward achieving the best outcome in the proceedings.
Source: cnbc.com, "When it comes to divorce, not all assets are equal", Sarah O'Brien, Sept. 22, 2017
]]>Fraud is a term that includes various types of money-related charges, and it is one of the most common types of white-collar crime. If you are facing charges or allegations of fraud, your situation is serious, but it is not hopeless. You may want to explore your options for a criminal defense as soon as possible.
]]> The most common types of fraudFraud a term used to describe various types of criminal behavior. People may commit fraud in order to achieve various types of financial gain through deception, theft and more. Some of the most common types of fraud charges relate to the following:
The specific consequences you may face depend on the nature of your case, but they could include time behind bars, fines and more. You may also find that alleged white-collar crime activity could result in loss of reputation, damage to your career and much more. When there is much at stake, a strong defense strategy is crucial.
A comprehensive defense
White-collar crime cases are complex, and there are multiple factors that can determine the specific types of charges you may face and the potential penalties that can follow a conviction. When facing such serious charges, you would be wise to build a defense strategy uniquely tailored to your needs and legal objectives. With the right help, it is possible to successfully defend against charges of fraud.
The implications of white-collar crime
No matter the type, white-collar crime charges are serious. You would want to start by seeking a complete evaluation of your case in order to better understand your defense options.
You have the right to confront the charges against you, present evidence that benefits your defense and vigorously pursue the best possible outcome to your situation. The first step in this process is to reach out for help as soon as possible after an arrest or as soon as you learn that you are under investigation.
]]>Three separate vehicles were involved in the first crash. Officials say that other motorists in the area were watching the events of the accident unfold, causing four more collisions within moments of the first collision. One of the people involved in the initial crash died, but no personal identification information was provided to the public.
]]> Several other people were transported to area hospitals after they suffered injuries in the accidents that followed the first incident. Two of those injured were adults while a third victim was a juvenile. Such situations are often complicated, leaving many questions unanswered until further investigation is conducted.It's not uncommon for more than one person to be deemed liable when several simultaneous motor vehicle accidents occur on an Alabama highway. In fact, such circumstances often lead to legal proceedings when injured victims or a parent or legal guardian of a minor victim files personal injury claims against those believed to have been responsible for a collision. To discuss a particular incident and how best to proceed to seek compensation for damages, an eligible party may request a meeting with an experienced injury attorney in the area.
Source: al.com, "1 dead, 3 injured in multi-vehicle wreck on I-565 near Mooresville", Jonece Starr Dunigan, Sept. 15, 2017
]]>It was a Thursday evening when police attempted to pull a car over in Elberta. Authorities say there were three occupants in the car at the time. The initial reason for the traffic stop was not published; however, all three people are now facing drug charges in court.
]]> Not every traffic stop leads to a vehicle search as this one did. In such situations, a person could submit a challenge against evidence if he or she believed such a search somehow violated his or her personal rights. In this particular case, when police rummaged through the vehicle, they claim to have found approximately 6 grams of heroin.Alabama authorities also say there was Xanax, a gun, more than $1,000 in cash and various items of drug paraphernalia within the vehicle. To make matters worse, it appears all three people in the car had outstanding warrants for their arrests. The three were taken into custody and will now have the opportunity to present as strong a criminal defense argument as possible when they each have their day in court. The hope of a positive outcome may be increased if a person secures experienced defense assistance before heading to court.
Source: local15tv.com, "Traffic stop leads to drug bust", Jessica Townsend, Accessed on Sept. 4, 2017
]]>Children often get dragged into one or the other parent's emotional roller coaster during the divorce process. If one parent doesn't want the marriage to end, he or she may use the children to try to get the other parent to stay. Sometimes, one spouse tries to lay a real guilt trip on the other, accusing him or her of abandoning the family or leaving half a family destitute, etc.
]]> If a spouse seems to be handling an impending divorce by flying off the handle and growing angrier as time goes on, it may be a sign of trouble ahead, especially in court. If problems begin to surface regarding child custody or other personal issues, it may be a sign that the other parent will do just about anything to cause stress as a means of revenge. It's one thing to deal with a cantankerous parent and quite another when when revenge tactics affect one's relationship with children or a parent's rights.Children definitely fare best when they have a close relationship with both parents following divorce. If a parent is refusing to follow a court order or is using children as a means of exploitation to get back at a spouse, there may be several things that can be done to rectify the situation. An Alabama family law attorney would be able to help a concerned parent determine how best to proceed to solve a particular problem.
Source: chicagonow.com, "Signs of a 'Rougher than Average' Divorce", Ann Cerney, Sept. 5, 2017
]]>Authorities say they found substantial amounts of drugs in various residences during the recent investigation. They also said a young child was present in one of the homes where they seized marijuana and other drugs. One of the homes that was raided is said to have contained a methamphetamine lab; police say there were also marijuana plants growing there. A 12-gauge shotgun was reportedly seized during the search as well.
]]> Ages of the six people arrested range from 32 to 61. One defendant's bond is set high, at $1 million. Another person taken into police custody was brought in, not for supposed drug crimes but for failure to appear in traffic court and also because of an outstanding warrant related to an assault charge.No two criminal defense situations are exactly the same; a particular outcome may hinge upon the type of legal representation presented in court. Individual criminal histories are also pertinent to the court's decisions in such cases. This is one of many reasons most people charged with serious drug crimes in Alabama turn to experienced attorneys to seek advice as to what strategies may be most effective toward avoiding conviction and mitigating their circumstances.
Source: al.com, "6 arrested, meth, pills, marijuana seized during Cullman County drug busts", Jonece Starr Dunigan, Aug. 23, 2017
]]>The penalties for a DUI conviction are severe, and can have a substantial impact on your life. You may wish to protect yourself against undesirable consequences by challenging the charges, and understanding the events that may have led to your arrest could prove beneficial.
]]> Circumstances that could lead to a DUI arrestThere are numerous circumstances in which authorities might accuse an individual of drunk driving, and understanding which ones may apply to your situation could help you in forming your defense strategy. Some examples of situations where a drunk driving arrest may occur could include the following:
While understanding the circumstances that led to your arrest is a crucial step in the process, with little to no knowledge of such intricate matters, seeking guidance from someone with an intricate understanding of Alabama state DUI laws could be in your best interests.
Assistance in pursuing a favorable outcome
Chances are that you probably consider your future to be of the utmost importance, and you likely wish to protect yourself from suffering potentially devastating consequences that accompany a conviction for drunk driving. However, this can be a challenging goal to pursue alone, and seeking advice in the initial stages could be a solid move. By obtaining guidance on making informed decisions throughout the process, you could become better prepared to pursue the best outcome possible during court proceedings.
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