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  13.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/articles/know-your-rights-what-to-do-during-a-police-stop-in-new-york</guid>
  14.      <title><![CDATA[Know Your Rights: What to Do During a Police Stop in New York]]></title>
  15.      <description> Understanding your rights during a police stop can mean the difference between a smooth encounter and a costly mistake. At Vasiliou Law, we empower New Yorkers with the legal knowledge they need when approached by law enforcement.  Being stopped by ...</description>
  16.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 12.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; -webkit-text-stroke: #000000;" id="isPasted"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-size: 12.00px; font-kerning: none;">Understanding your rights during a police stop can mean the difference between a smooth encounter and a costly mistake. At Vasiliou Law, we empower New Yorkers with the legal knowledge they need when approached by law enforcement.</span></p><p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.3) -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none; box-sizing: inherit; margin-top: 0px; text-shadow: none; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.62; caret-color: rgb(13, 40, 69) color: rgb(13, 40, 69) font-family: Blinker, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;" id="isPasted">Being stopped by the police can be an intimidating experience, whether you’re walking down the street, driving your car, or simply going about your day. However, it’s important to remember that you have legal rights designed to protect you in these situations. Understanding these rights can help ensure that any encounter with law enforcement is handled properly and that your constitutional protections are upheld.</p><p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.3) -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none; box-sizing: inherit; margin-top: 0px; text-shadow: none; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.62; caret-color: rgb(13, 40, 69) color: rgb(13, 40, 69) font-family: Blinker, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">At SV Law Partners, we’re committed to helping individuals in Astoria, New York understand their legal rights and protect them in any interaction with the police. Here’s what you need to know.</p><p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.3) -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none; box-sizing: inherit; margin-top: 0px; text-shadow: none; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.62; caret-color: rgb(13, 40, 69) color: rgb(13, 40, 69) font-family: Blinker, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: 700;">The Right to Remain Silent</strong></p><p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.3) -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none; box-sizing: inherit; margin-top: 0px; text-shadow: none; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.62; caret-color: rgb(13, 40, 69) color: rgb(13, 40, 69) font-family: Blinker, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">One of the most fundamental rights you have during a police stop is the right to remain silent. Under the Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, you are not required to answer questions that might incriminate you. If you choose to exercise this right, you should clearly state that you are invoking your right to remain silent. Simply staying silent without saying this can sometimes be used against you.</p><p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.3) -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none; box-sizing: inherit; margin-top: 0px; text-shadow: none; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.62; caret-color: rgb(13, 40, 69) color: rgb(13, 40, 69) font-family: Blinker, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: 700;">The Right to Refuse a Search</strong></p><p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.3) -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none; box-sizing: inherit; margin-top: 0px; text-shadow: none; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.62; caret-color: rgb(13, 40, 69) color: rgb(13, 40, 69) font-family: Blinker, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">Another important protection is the right to refuse a search. Unless police have a valid search warrant or probable cause, they generally cannot search your person, vehicle, or home without your consent. If an officer asks for permission to search, you have the right to politely decline.</p><p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.3) -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none; box-sizing: inherit; margin-top: 0px; text-shadow: none; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.62; caret-color: rgb(13, 40, 69) color: rgb(13, 40, 69) font-family: Blinker, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">However, there are some exceptions, such as if an officer sees evidence of a crime in plain view or believes there is an immediate threat to their safety. Understanding when and how to assert your right to refuse a search can prevent unlawful searches and protect your privacy.</p><p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.3) -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none; box-sizing: inherit; margin-top: 0px; text-shadow: none; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.62; caret-color: rgb(13, 40, 69) color: rgb(13, 40, 69) font-family: Blinker, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;" id="isPasted"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: 700;">The Right to Know Why You Are Being Stopped</strong></p><p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.3) -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none; box-sizing: inherit; margin-top: 0px; text-shadow: none; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.62; caret-color: rgb(13, 40, 69) color: rgb(13, 40, 69) font-family: Blinker, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">Police officers must have a reasonable suspicion that you are involved in criminal activity to stop you. If you are stopped, you have the right to ask if you are being detained or if you are free to leave. If you are not under arrest or being detained, you can politely walk away.</p><p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.3) -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none; box-sizing: inherit; margin-top: 0px; text-shadow: none; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.62; caret-color: rgb(13, 40, 69) color: rgb(13, 40, 69) font-family: Blinker, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: 700;">The Right to Legal Representation</strong></p><p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.3) -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none; box-sizing: inherit; margin-top: 0px; text-shadow: none; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.62; caret-color: rgb(13, 40, 69) color: rgb(13, 40, 69) font-family: Blinker, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">If you are arrested, you have the right to speak with an attorney before answering any questions. It’s often in your best interest to request a lawyer as soon as possible and to refrain from answering questions until your attorney is present.</p><p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.3) -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none; box-sizing: inherit; margin-top: 0px; text-shadow: none; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.62; caret-color: rgb(13, 40, 69) color: rgb(13, 40, 69) font-family: Blinker, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">At SV Law Partners, our experienced <a href="https://www.svlawpartners.com/criminal-defense-lawyer-astoria-new-york/" style="box-sizing: inherit; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: underline; color: rgb(177, 155, 57) font-weight: 700; transition: 0.5s ease-out;">criminal defense lawyers in Astoria, New York</a> are ready to protect your rights and provide you with clear guidance in the event of a police stop or arrest.</p><p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.3) -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none; box-sizing: inherit; margin-top: 0px; text-shadow: none; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.62; caret-color: rgb(13, 40, 69) color: rgb(13, 40, 69) font-family: Blinker, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: 700;">Practical Tips During a Police Stop</strong></p><ul style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.3) -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none; box-sizing: inherit; font-size: medium; margin-left: 0px; padding-left: 2rem; line-height: 1.62; caret-color: rgb(13, 40, 69) color: rgb(13, 40, 69) font-family: Blinker, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;"><li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: 700;">Stay calm and respectful</strong>: Avoid escalating the situation, even if you feel the stop is unjust.</li><li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: 700;">Keep your hands visible</strong>: Do not make sudden movements that could be interpreted as threatening.</li><li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: 700;">Ask if you are free to leave</strong>: If the answer is yes, you can politely leave.</li><li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit; font-weight: 700;">Do not lie or provide false documents</strong>: Lying to law enforcement can result in additional criminal charges.</li></ul><p style="font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.3) -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none; box-sizing: inherit; margin-top: 0px; text-shadow: none; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.62; caret-color: rgb(13, 40, 69) color: rgb(13, 40, 69) font-family: Blinker, sans-serif; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">If you have concerns about a recent police stop or believe your rights were violated, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at SV Law Partners. Our dedicated attorneys are here to guide you through every step and fight for your rights.</p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 12.0px 0.0px; font: 19.0px 'Times New Roman'; color: #0000ee; -webkit-text-stroke: #0000ee;" id="isPasted"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-size: 19.00px; font-kerning: none; color: #000000; -webkit-text-stroke: 0px #000000;">This article originally appeared on the Vasiliou Law Blog: <a href="https://www.svlawpartners.com/blog/your-rights-during-a-police-stop-what-you-need-to-know"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-size: 19.00px; text-decoration: underline ; font-kerning: none; -webkit-text-stroke: 0px #0000ee;">https://www.svlawpartners.com/blog/your-rights-during-a-police-stop-what-you-need-to-know</span></a></span></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>]]></content:encoded>
  17.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/articles/know-your-rights-what-to-do-during-a-police-stop-in-new-york</link>
  18.      <pubDate>Sun, 01 Jun 2025 07:43:45 -1100</pubDate>
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  21.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/articles/top-civil-rights-issues-in-los-angeles-today-a-lawyer%E2%80%99s-perspective</guid>
  22.      <title><![CDATA[Top Civil Rights Issues in Los Angeles Today: A Lawyer’s Perspective]]></title>
  23.      <description> Civil rights issues are ever-present in the United States, and Los Angeles is known for being at the center of many of them. The diversity of this area makes it prone to clashes and disputes that lead to rights violations—but California also provide...</description>
  24.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;" id="isPasted"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Civil rights issues are ever-present in the United States, and Los Angeles is known for being at the center of many of them. The diversity of this area makes it prone to clashes and disputes that lead to rights violations—but California also provides greater civil rights protections than many other states, providing significant benefits to residents. If you’re the victim of police misconduct, one of the most common sources of civil rights violations, the team at the Law Offices of Dale K. Galipo can help you.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">When it comes to civil rights violations, the Law Offices of Dale K. Galipo has the experience and knowledge you need. For more than two decades, </span><a href="https://www.galipolaw.com/dale-k-galipo/" style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:underline;-webkit-text-decoration-skip:none;text-decoration-skip-ink:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">attorney Dale K. Galipo</span></a><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;"> has fought vigorously to represent those who have suffered police misconduct. Call us at 818-347-3333 to talk about your case in greater detail.</span></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:700;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Emergency Shelter Access</span></h3><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">One of the most significant civil rights issues facing Los Angeles residents at the present moment is access to emergency shelters. The State of California Civil Rights Department has released a </span><a href="https://calcivilrights.ca.gov/2025/01/16/amid-ongoing-fires-in-southern-california-civil-rights-department-reminds-californians-that-their-rights-remain-protected-during-emergencies/" style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:underline;-webkit-text-decoration-skip:none;text-decoration-skip-ink:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">statement on civil rights violations</span></a><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;"> during the California wildfires, emphasizing the fact that emergency shelters and other providers of temporary accommodations cannot discriminate against people based on their role in any protected groups. This includes denying housing or making certain groups of people meet different requirements than others.</span></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:700;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Work Leave</span></h3><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">The wildfires have also highlighted disparities in how people are treated when it comes to work leave. Civil rights and labor laws in California offer equal protection to those who need time away from work for bereavement leave, unsafe conditions during natural disasters, and injuries. As people grapple with the effects of the wildfire, civil rights violations have come to light.</span></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:700;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Police Practices and Accountability</span></h3><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">One long-standing issue in Los Angeles and the rest of the United States is police misconduct and abuses of power. This is not unique to Los Angeles; however, Los Angeles has been in the news often for police officers’ abuse of power, from an officer punching an unarmed man in the face and illegal traffic stops to an alleged “mafia culture” in the LAPD. In fact, police misconduct lawsuits in Los Angeles have </span><a href="https://boingboing.net/2024/10/18/l-a-s-fiscal-nightmare-police-misconduct-lawsuit-payouts-push-city-to-the-brink.html" style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:underline;-webkit-text-decoration-skip:none;text-decoration-skip-ink:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">pushed the city’s budget to its absolute limits</span></a><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Unfortunately, this will likely continue to be an issue in Los Angeles until there is some sort of systemic change. Pressure in and around the city continues to mount, and until there is real and enforceable change, </span><a href="https://www.galipolaw.com/police-misconduct/" style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#1155cc;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:underline;-webkit-text-decoration-skip:none;text-decoration-skip-ink:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Los Angeles police misconduct lawyers</span></a><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;"> will continue to be busy.</span></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:700;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Immigrant Rights</span></h3><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">It should be no surprise that in a city as diverse as Los Angeles, immigrant rights are a massive civil rights issue. The immigrant labor force in California is a thriving part of the state’s economy, but a push to limit immigration has also led to massive amount of civil rights violations. To make the situation worse, many who are new to the United States are not yet aware of their rights under state and federal law—so these violations continue to go unchecked.</span></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:700;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Education Access</span></h3><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Technically, all children in the United States have the right to accessible, free education. In practice, though, the quality of that education varies dramatically. There are significant barriers to equal education opportunities, and those barriers often target people based on their race, religion, income, and immigration status. Parents whose children are affected by these violations often have to go to great lengths to get their children the education they deserve—and are legally entitled to.</span></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:700;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">LGBTQ+ Rights</span></h3><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">While LGBTQ+ rights have come a long way in recent years, civil rights violation based on sexual preference and gender identity are still incredibly common. Los Angeles tends to be a more accepting region, but violations happen often enough that affected people must know their rights and be ready to assert them on a regular basis.</span></p><h2 dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:700;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Explore Your Options With the Law Offices of Dale K. Galipo</span></h2><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.2;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><a href="https://www.galipolaw.com/excessive-restraint/" style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#1155cc;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:underline;-webkit-text-decoration-skip:none;text-decoration-skip-ink:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Police abuse</span></a><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">, </span><a href="https://www.galipolaw.com/police-misconduct-wrongful-conviction/" style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#1155cc;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:underline;-webkit-text-decoration-skip:none;text-decoration-skip-ink:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">wrongful arrests</span></a><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">, and police misconduct continue to be serious problems in and around Los Angeles. If you’ve been a victim of police abuse, it’s time to </span><a href="https://www.galipolaw.com/contact-us/" style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#1155cc;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:underline;-webkit-text-decoration-skip:none;text-decoration-skip-ink:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">talk to our police misconduct attorneys</span></a><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:'Helvetica Neue',sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">. Reach out online or call us at 818-347-3333 to set up a time to discuss your case now.</span></p>]]></content:encoded>
  25.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/articles/top-civil-rights-issues-in-los-angeles-today-a-lawyer%E2%80%99s-perspective</link>
  26.      <pubDate>Tue, 01 Apr 2025 13:51:05 -1100</pubDate>
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  29.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/articles/holiday-travel-and-increased-car-accidents-staying-safe-on-texas-roads</guid>
  30.      <title><![CDATA[Holiday Travel and Increased Car Accidents: Staying Safe on Texas Roads]]></title>
  31.      <description>Traffic accidents may be more likely during the holiday period in Texas, and motorists should be extra cautious during this time. While the National Safety Council states the increase in fatal accidents during the holidays is “not statistically signi...</description>
  32.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr">Traffic accidents may be more likely during the holiday period in Texas, and motorists should be extra cautious during this time. While the <a href="https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/holidays/christmas-day/data-details/" style="text-decoration:none;">National Safety Council</a> states the increase in fatal accidents during the holidays is “not statistically significant,” each traffic fatality is more than just a number on a spreadsheet. It represents a grieving family, a lifetime of lost earnings, and significant funeral expenses. </p><p dir="ltr">In order to cover these damages, it may be necessary to contact an established personal injury law firm in Texas. Consider working with Garza Law Office, PLLC – a firm established by <a href="https://doraalicia.com/personal-injury/" style="text-decoration:none;">personal injury attorney</a> Dora Alicia Garza. After graduating from St. Mary’s University with a Juris Doctor in 2014, <a href="https://doraalicia.com/dora-alicia-garza/" style="text-decoration:none;">Dora Alicia Garza</a> went on to create this law firm – and she immediately began helping injured car accident victims. If you’re looking for a personal injury lawyer in Texas, she may be able to help you too. </p><h3 dir="ltr">Practice Defensive Driving</h3><p dir="ltr">During the holiday season, it is an ideal time to practice “defensive driving.” While you can take dedicated defensive driving courses, it is relatively easy to drive defensively with a few simple steps. </p><p dir="ltr">First, make sure you increase your following distance as much as possible. More distance between vehicles means more time to react. If you follow too closely, it may be more challenging to avoid a collision. Remember, longer following distances may be necessary on the highway. The faster the speed, the greater the following distance. </p><p dir="ltr">Second, you should assume that other drivers are not reliable – or even sober. Drinking while intoxicated may be more common during the holiday season. Even if a driver appears to be operating normally, it may suddenly swerve when you least expect it. </p><p dir="ltr">Intoxicated or distracted drivers may be more likely to indicate with their turn signals before making a completely different maneuver. Do not simply assume that a driver will follow through with a turn because they indicated in that direction. </p><h3 dir="ltr">Avoid Road Rage</h3><p dir="ltr">Road rage may be much more common over the holiday season. This can be a highly stressful time for many, especially during the frantic rush to purchase presents before Christmas. </p><p dir="ltr">If you find yourself in a road rage incident, do your best to de-escalate and avoid direct confrontation. If need be, pull over and disengage from the other driver. If you feel unsafe or threatened, you are perfectly justified in calling the police. Road rage can easily spiral out of control if you let it. </p><h3 dir="ltr">Consider Rideshare or Taxis When Getting Home</h3><p dir="ltr">During the colder winter months, you might feel tempted to drive home after having a few too many. However, there is really no excuse for this behavior – especially when you have so many options. Rideshare apps are now extremely cheap, and a nearby driver can get you home in a few minutes. Rather than risking injury, death, and criminal charges, you should simply let someone else drive. </p><p dir="ltr">If transport is unavailable for whatever reason, consider sleeping it off before attempting to drive. Ask a friend if you can sleep on their couch. If there are no other options, it might be worth sleeping in your car. Keep in mind, however, that merely sleeping in your car while intoxicated could trigger DUI charges. To avoid these consequences, avoid putting your keys in the ignition. You might also want to sleep in the back seat rather than the driver’s seat. If the police believe that you are planning to drive (or have recently driven), you could be arrested for DUI. </p><h3 dir="ltr">Steps to Take After a Holiday Crash</h3><p dir="ltr">Even after being extremely cautious on the road, it may be impossible to avoid crashes during the holiday season. If you find yourself in this situation, you should prioritize your health. Accept treatment at the scene from first responders – even if you believe your injuries are minor. See a doctor and follow up with specialists if necessary. </p><p dir="ltr">It might also be helpful to gather evidence from the scene of the crash. This might include photographs, videos, eyewitness contact information, and anything else you think might be useful in a Texas car accident lawsuit. </p><h2 dir="ltr">Contact an Established Personal Injury Law Firm in Texas</h2><p dir="ltr">If a holiday crash has harmed you or someone you love, consider pursuing compensation with an experienced <a href="https://doraalicia.com/practice-areas/" style="text-decoration:none;">personal injury lawyer in Texas.</a> Dora Alicia Garza has spent years assisting injured victims like you, and this Texas personal injury attorney may be able to guide you toward justice and compensation. Reach out today, <a href="https://doraalicia.com/contact/" style="text-decoration:none;">schedule a consultation</a>, and learn more about your legal options. </p>]]></content:encoded>
  33.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/articles/holiday-travel-and-increased-car-accidents-staying-safe-on-texas-roads</link>
  34.      <pubDate>Mon, 03 Mar 2025 07:43:11 -1100</pubDate>
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  37.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/articles/how-to-reduce-costs-in-a-divorce</guid>
  38.      <title><![CDATA[How to Reduce Costs in a Divorce]]></title>
  39.      <description>If you’re going through a divorce, it’s common to want to save money. After all, you may feel worried about the future, about supporting yourself on one salary, and on giving your children a brighter figure. But here’s something you might not have co...</description>
  40.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr">If you’re going through a divorce, it’s common to want to save money. After all, you may feel worried about the future, about supporting yourself on one salary, and on giving your children a brighter figure. But here’s something you might not have considered: hiring the right divorce lawyer can actually save you money in the long run. Why? Because a good lawyer knows how to navigate the process efficiently, steer you clear of costly mistakes, and make sure your interests are protected every step of the way.</p><p dir="ltr">Divorce isn’t just about signing papers; it’s about making smart financial decisions that will affect you for years to come.</p><p dir="ltr">At Blake & Pulsifer, PLC, we can help you reduce costs during a divorce to help you move into a better future. Our <a href="https://www.blakepulsifer.com/family-law/divorce/" style="text-decoration:none;">Tempe divorce lawyers</a> will help you save money while navigating this major life transition. We’ve been helping <a href="https://www.blakepulsifer.com/family-law/spousal-support/" style="text-decoration:none;">divorcing couples in Arizona</a> for years, and we can guide you through this process. </p><h2 dir="ltr">Choose the Right Tempe Divorce Attorney from the Start</h2><p dir="ltr">One of the biggest mistakes people make during a divorce is hiring the wrong attorney—or not hiring one at all. While going solo might seem like a way to save money, it can backfire if you make legal or financial errors that take years to fix.</p><h3 dir="ltr">How a Good Divorce Lawyer Saves You Money:</h3><p dir="ltr">Divorce involves complex issues like property division, <a href="https://www.blakepulsifer.com/family-law/child-custody/" style="text-decoration:none;">child custody</a>, and <a href="https://www.clerkofcourt.maricopa.gov/services/family-matters/child-support-payments" style="text-decoration:none;">child support agreements</a>. Mistakes in paperwork or during negotiations can create significant delays that can result in you getting less than you deserve - or might even lead to prolonged time in court. That’s where the expertise of a skilled <a href="https://www.blakepulsifer.com/family-law/" style="text-decoration:none;">family law attorney</a> makes all the difference.</p><p dir="ltr">Experienced divorce lawyers know how to streamline the process and avoid unnecessary hearings or drawn-out disputes. They can handle the procedural requirements efficiently, helping you move through the system with fewer headaches and less expense.</p><p dir="ltr">The right lawyer does more than handle paperwork—they help you focus on what really matters: your long-term well-being and financial stability. Instead of getting bogged down in every disagreement, they’ll help you zero in on the big-picture issues that truly affect your future. That means fewer wasted hours (and dollars) fighting over things that won’t matter down the road. With an experienced attorney by your side, you can feel confident that everything is being handled properly. This frees you up to focus on what’s ahead and take the first steps toward rebuilding your life.</p><p dir="ltr">When choosing an attorney, look for someone with <a href="https://www.blakepulsifer.com/about-the-firm/" style="text-decoration:none;">expertise in family law</a>, a strong <a href="https://www.blakepulsifer.com/reviews/" style="text-decoration:none;">track record of satisfied clients</a>, and transparent fees. Investing in the right legal representation upfront can save you significant money and stress over time.</p><h3 dir="ltr">Use Mediation or Negotiation to Reduce Costs</h3><p dir="ltr">The courtroom can be expensive, but it’s not always necessary. Many couples can resolve issues like property division and custody through mediation or negotiation, which is less costly and time-consuming than litigation. Collaborating with your attorney to resolve disputes outside of court can lead to faster, more affordable outcomes.</p><p dir="ltr">Your divorce lawyer can prepare you for mediation, helping you understand your rights and what’s realistic to expect. When you eventually reach a resolution during mediation, your attorney will ensure the final terms are fair and legally sound.</p><h3 dir="ltr">Focus on Cooperation, Not Conflict</h3><p dir="ltr">The more you and your spouse argue, the higher your legal fees will climb. Constant back-and-forth over minor issues can drag out the process, leading to higher expenses.</p><p dir="ltr">A lawyer can play a crucial role in keeping your divorce process on track and minimizing unnecessary conflict. By setting clear boundaries, your Tempe divorce attorney can manage communication between you and your spouse, ensuring discussions stay focused and productive instead of escalating into arguments. </p><p dir="ltr">The right legal team will help you keep the big picture in mind, reminding you to prioritize long-term financial and emotional stability rather than getting caught up in minor disputes that don’t truly matter. </p><h3 dir="ltr">Be Realistic About Property Division</h3><p dir="ltr">Fighting over assets is one of the quickest ways to increase legal fees during a divorce. While it’s understandable to feel attached to certain belongings, being realistic about what’s worth pursuing can save you significant money and reduce stress.</p><p dir="ltr">With the right legal team on your side, you will rest easier knowing that all your assets are accurately valued. This means that you won’t end up settling for less than you deserve—or wasting time overvaluing items of little significance. Your lawyer will also help you weigh the costs and benefits of keeping specific assets, like the family home, versus selling and splitting the proceeds, ensuring you make decisions that align with your financial reality.</p><h3 dir="ltr">Contact Our Tempe Divorce Lawyers Today</h3><p dir="ltr">Divorce is never easy, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. By choosing the right family law firm, you can reduce costs and move into a brighter future.</p><p dir="ltr">Remember, every decision you make has financial consequences, so take the time to plan wisely. And if things feel overwhelming, remind yourself that you’re not alone—help is available, and brighter days are ahead.</p><p dir="ltr">Contact <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/vTgRQCeJKdyChtXC8" style="text-decoration:none;">Blake & Pulsifer, PLC.</a>, at 1-480-838-3000 or fill out our <a href="https://www.blakepulsifer.com/contact-us/" style="text-decoration:none;">confidential contact form</a>. We’ll help you create a plan to get through your divorce with ease. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>]]></content:encoded>
  41.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/articles/how-to-reduce-costs-in-a-divorce</link>
  42.      <pubDate>Fri, 24 Jan 2025 05:57:42 -1100</pubDate>
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  45.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/articles/what-is-the-florida-%E2%80%9Cthree-strikes%E2%80%9D-law</guid>
  46.      <title><![CDATA[What Is the Florida “Three Strikes” Law?]]></title>
  47.      <description>If you have been charged with a crime when you already have an existing conviction, you could be subject to even tougher penalties if you are convicted. The Florida criminal defense attorneys at the Alers Law Firm can provide you with a vigorous lega...</description>
  48.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr">If you have been charged with a crime when you already have an existing conviction, you could be subject to even tougher penalties if you are convicted. The <a href="https://alerslawfirm.com/criminal-defense/" style="text-decoration:none;">Florida criminal defense attorneys</a> at the Alers Law Firm can provide you with a vigorous legal defense to any criminal charge against you.</p><p dir="ltr">Florida has several laws on the books that raise penalties for those who are convicted of subsequent felonies after an initial conviction. In 1999, Florida passed the “three strikes and you’re out law” to impose minimum sentences for a third felony conviction. When one is convicted of a third felony that meets certain criteria, the court may impose a prison sentence that extends beyond the one that they would have ordinarily received for the conviction. </p><p dir="ltr">Call the lawyers at the Alers Law Firm immediately when you find yourself in the criminal justice system. Time is of the essence, as your legal rights and freedom are on the line. </p><h3 dir="ltr">Which Offenses Qualify for the “Three Strikes” Law?</h3><p dir="ltr">The law gives a long list of violent crimes that would qualify for a prior conviction. These are crimes that are considered forcible felonies, and list includes:</p><ul><li><p>Arson</p></li><li><p>Sexual battery </p></li><li><p><a href="http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0800-0899/0812/Sections/0812.13.html" style="text-decoration:none;">Robbery</a></p></li><li><p>Kidnapping</p></li><li><p>Aggravated child abuse</p></li><li><p>Aggravated abuse of an elderly person or disabled adult</p></li><li><p>Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon</p></li><li><p>Murder</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr">If you are <a href="https://alerslawfirm.com/violent-crimes/" style="text-decoration:none;">convicted of a third violent crime</a> that meets the law’s criteria, the judge would have to impose certain mandatory sentences. There are no ifs, ands or buts. The judge loses some degree of discretion, no matter what the circumstances of the alleged crime are. It does not matter what the judge believes, so long as the jury has convicted you of the crime.</p><h3 dir="ltr">The Penalties for a Third Conviction</h3><p dir="ltr">The enhanced penalties for a “<a href="http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0775/Sections/0775.084.html" style="text-decoration:none;">third strike</a>” are as follows:</p><ul><li><p>If the crime is a life felony, the sentence is life in prison without the possibility of parole</p></li><li><p>For a first-degree felony, there is a minimum thirty-year jail sentence</p></li><li><p>For a second-degree felony, there is a minimum fifteen-year jail sentence</p></li><li><p>For a third-degree felony, there is a minimum five-year jail sentence</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr">The judge maintains the discretion to impose a sentence even higher than the minimum, and you should never assume that they would not use it. </p><h3 dir="ltr">When the Three Strikes Law May Be Limited</h3><p dir="ltr">There are some limitations on a prosecutor’s ability to seek enhanced penalties for a third offense. These limits include:</p><ul><li><p>The primary offense for which the defendant is to be sentenced is a violent one that falls under the list provided by the statute, which includes things such as manslaughter</p></li><li><p>The three strikes law does not apply to a felony in which the use of a weapon or firearm is an essential element</p></li><li><p>The felony for which the defendant is to be sentenced (and one of their prior two felony convictions) do not involve the possession or sale of a controlled substance)</p></li><li><p>The two prior convictions must have occurred on separate occasions and not in one individual offense which involved multiple charges</p></li><li><p>The third offense must have occurred within five years of another criminal offense</p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr">How the Three Strikes Law Is Applied</h3><p dir="ltr">The court would need to conduct its own separate hearing to determine whether the defendant is a “violent career offender.” In other words, you would not be automatically subject to enhanced penalties solely on the basis of a third conviction. You would be able to present your own evidence and witnesses, and your criminal defense lawyer would be able to confront the prosecution’s witnesses in an open court setting. The court would need to find that you are a violent career offender by a preponderance of the evidence. </p><p dir="ltr">The tougher punishments make it even more essential that you seek help from a criminal defense attorney as soon as you are charged with a crime. Know that the “three strikes law” is not the only statute that applies to repeat offenders in Florida, and that can lead to more serious penalties. There may even be stiffer penalties for second convictions when you are deemed to be a habitual violent felony offender. Florida also has a law that enhances punishments for those who are deemed to be a “violent career criminal.” Never draw any assumptions about the outcome of your criminal case and also talk to a criminal defense lawyer. </p><h2 dir="ltr">Call a Florida Criminal Defense Law Firm Today</h2><p dir="ltr">When your freedom and future are at stake, reach out to the Florida criminal defense lawyers at The Alers Law Firm. You can <a href="https://alerslawfirm.com/contact-us/" style="text-decoration:none;">speak to a criminal defense lawyer</a> by filling out a contact form on our website or by calling us today at 407-930-4888. Never take any chances when your future is at risk. </p>]]></content:encoded>
  49.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/articles/what-is-the-florida-%E2%80%9Cthree-strikes%E2%80%9D-law</link>
  50.      <pubDate>Mon, 13 Jan 2025 11:43:19 -1100</pubDate>
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  53.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/articles/what-happens-if-you-don-t-have-enough-insurance-to-cover-a-car-accident-in-california</guid>
  54.      <title><![CDATA[What Happens If You Don't Have Enough Insurance to Cover a Car Accident in California?]]></title>
  55.      <description> Getting into a   car accident   is scary enough without having to worry about whether your insurance will cover all the   damages   and injuries. But what do you do if the worst happens and your policy limits fall short? When the bills are piling up...</description>
  56.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Getting into a </span><a href="https://wshapiro.com/where-do-most-car-accidents-occur-in-san-bernardino/" style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#1155cc;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:underline;-webkit-text-decoration-skip:none;text-decoration-skip-ink:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">car accident</span></a><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;"> is scary enough without having to worry about whether your insurance will cover all the </span><a href="https://wshapiro.com/uber-lyft-accident/" style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#1155cc;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:underline;-webkit-text-decoration-skip:none;text-decoration-skip-ink:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">damages</span></a><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;"> and injuries. But what do you do if the worst happens and your policy limits fall short? When the bills are piling up, and you're not sure where to turn, California's insurance laws and injury regulations can seem hopelessly confusing. Fortunately, you have options, and an experienced </span><a href="https://wshapiro.com/car-accidents/" style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#1155cc;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:underline;-webkit-text-decoration-skip:none;text-decoration-skip-ink:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">San Bernardino car accident lawyer</span></a><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;"> can help guide you through this stressful process.</span></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:18pt;margin-bottom:6pt;"><span style="font-size:16pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">The Basics of California Car Insurance Law</span></h3><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Let's start with the fundamentals - what does California law require regarding auto insurance? According to </span><a href="https://codes.findlaw.com/ca/insurance-code/ins-sect-11580-1/" style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#1155cc;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:underline;-webkit-text-decoration-skip:none;text-decoration-skip-ink:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">California Insurance Code §11580.1b,</span></a><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;"> the mandatory minimum liability coverage amounts are:</span></p><ul style="margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-inline-start:48px;"><li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type:disc;font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;" aria-level="1"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">$15,000 for injury/death to one person </span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type:disc;font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;" aria-level="1"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">$30,000 for injury/death to more than one person</span></p></li><li dir="ltr" style="list-style-type:disc;font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;" aria-level="1"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">$5,000 for damage to property</span><br><br></p></li></ul><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">These are just the bare minimums, however. Unfortunately, with rising medical costs and expensive vehicle repairs, those minimums often aren't enough to fully cover a serious accident. That's why many financial experts advise carrying significantly higher limits of $100,000/$300,000/$100,000 </span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:700;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:underline;-webkit-text-decoration-skip:none;text-decoration-skip-ink:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">or more. It’s likely additional coverage is not that much more than minimum coverage and when you need it, you’ll really appreciate you have the additional protection.</span></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:18pt;margin-bottom:6pt;"><span style="font-size:16pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">What If I Only Have the Minimum Coverage?  </span></h3><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">So what happens if you're carrying those base amounts and are at fault for a crash resulting in major damages or injuries? Any costs beyond your policy limits become your personal responsibility. The other parties can come after your assets, garnish your wages, or even force you into bankruptcy to recoup their losses. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Your own injuries may also be left without sufficient coverage. While California law does require insurance companies to offer Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage, it's not mandatory to purchase it. Without UM/UIM protection, if the at-fault driver has low limits or no insurance, you could be left paying your medical bills, lost wages, and other losses.</span></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:18pt;margin-bottom:6pt;"><span style="font-size:16pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Exploring All Avenues for Compensation</span></h3><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Before you panic, know that you may have more options than you think to cover an insurance shortfall after an accident. An experienced </span><a href="https://wshapiro.com/personal-injury/" style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#1155cc;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:underline;-webkit-text-decoration-skip:none;text-decoration-skip-ink:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">personal injury attorney</span></a><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;"> can be your greatest ally in exploring every potential avenue for collecting maximum compensation.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">For example, while California is a "fault" insurance state, where the at-fault party is generally liable for damages, there are some situations where you can turn to your insurance company for coverage. If you elected to add optional Collision, Comprehensive, Medical Payments, or other supplemental policies to your plan, your provider may cover certain losses regardless of fault. </span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">A skilled car accident lawyer will also know how to thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the crash to identify any and all parties who may share liability. Perhaps a vehicle manufacturer can be held responsible for a defective part, or a government entity may be to blame for a poorly maintained road. In cases with multiple injured parties, a personal injury attorney can help ensure you get your fair share of the available insurance proceeds.</span></p><h3 dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:18pt;margin-bottom:6pt;"><span style="font-size:16pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">When Serious Injuries Are Involved</span></h3><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Of course, everything becomes more complex, and the stakes become higher when major injuries are involved. </span><a href="https://codes.findlaw.com/ca/civil-code/civ-sect-3333-4/" style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#1155cc;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:underline;-webkit-text-decoration-skip:none;text-decoration-skip-ink:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">California Civil Code Section 3333.4</span></a><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;"> restricts an uninsured driver's ability to collect compensation for "non-economic" damages like pain and suffering. But if you're facing mounting medical debt, lost income from missed work, or permanent disability, you have every right to pursue the economic losses you've incurred.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">This is another area where having a car accident law firm in your corner can make all the difference. An attorney who is well-versed in the tactics </span><a href="https://wshapiro.com/insurance-bad-faith/" style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#1155cc;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:underline;-webkit-text-decoration-skip:none;text-decoration-skip-ink:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">insurance companies</span></a><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;"> use to minimize payouts will fight to get you every dollar you're entitled to. In the most catastrophic cases, they can help you understand other avenues that may be available, like </span><a href="https://wshapiro.com/injured-in-a-plane-car-or-train-accident/" style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#1155cc;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:underline;-webkit-text-decoration-skip:none;text-decoration-skip-ink:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">personal injury lawsuits</span></a><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;"> or </span><a href="https://wshapiro.com/the-difference-between-a-car-and-truck-accident-lawsuit/" style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#1155cc;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:underline;-webkit-text-decoration-skip:none;text-decoration-skip-ink:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">claims</span></a><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;"> against your own health insurance.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">The most important thing is not to let fear or uncertainty keep you from exploring your rights and options after an accident. Calling a car accident lawyer is a great first step - most offer free initial consultations so that you can get an assessment of your case without any financial risk.</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><br></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">The more you know, the better you'll be able to make sound decisions in difficult situations. So don't be afraid to ask questions, educate yourself on the law, and advocate for the protection and support you need during this challenging time. </span></p><h2 dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:18pt;margin-bottom:6pt;"><span style="font-size:16pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Contact Our San Bernardino Car Accident Lawyers Today</span></h2><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">If you or someone you love suffered an injury in a car accident in San Bernardino or anywhere in Southern California, our law firm can help. At William D. Shapiro Law, Inc., our San Bernardino car accident attorneys make it easy for you to get the support and guidance you need after a devastating car accident - even if you don’t have enough insurance. Simply call our law firm at </span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:700;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">(909) 890-1000</span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;"> or fill out our confidential </span><a href="https://wshapiro.com/contact-us/" style="text-decoration:none;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#1155cc;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:underline;-webkit-text-decoration-skip:none;text-decoration-skip-ink:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">contact</span></a><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;"> form today.</span></p>]]></content:encoded>
  57.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/articles/what-happens-if-you-don-t-have-enough-insurance-to-cover-a-car-accident-in-california</link>
  58.      <pubDate>Thu, 29 Aug 2024 05:34:51 -1100</pubDate>
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  61.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/articles/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten</guid>
  62.      <title><![CDATA[Top stoic quotes from Justice Lee in Lehrmann v Network Ten]]></title>
  63.      <description>On 15 April 2024 Justice Lee handed down his decision in the case of  Lehrmann v Network Ten Pty Limited (Trial Judgment) [2024] FCA 369.  This matter has attracted a large amount of media attention and for this reason alone it was interesting to wat...</description>
  64.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;" id="isPasted">On 15 April 2024 Justice Lee handed down his decision in the case of <a href="https://www.judgments.fedcourt.gov.au/judgments/Judgments/fca/single/2024/2024fca0369" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Lehrmann v Network Ten Pty Limited (Trial Judgment)</em> [2024] FCA 369</a>.  This matter has attracted a large amount of media attention and for this reason alone it was interesting to watch Justice Lee read his decision via live stream on YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=07A_Azvq2BA&t=1s" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Judgement livestreamed on YouTube</em></a><em><u>.</u></em>  Lee J described the underlying case as having become a “<em>cause celebre</em>” meaning one that attracts widespread controversy and heated public debate.</p><h2 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 2px; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">Our selection of the top stoic humorous quotes from Justice Lee</h2><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Paragraph 2 – “<em>Indeed, given its unexpected detours and the collateral damage it has occasioned, it might be more fitting to <strong>describe it as an omnishambles</strong></em>”<em>.</em><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[1]</a></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Paragraph 8 – “<em>… this is a credit case involving two people who are both, in different ways, <strong>unreliable historians</strong></em>”.<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftn2" name="_ftnref2" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[2]</a></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Paragraph 10 – “<em>To remark that Mr Lehrmann was a poor witness<strong> is an exercise in understatement</strong></em>”.  – referring to Lehrmann’s credibility.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Paragraph 12 – “<em>… trying to particularise it during the evidence was like trying to grab <strong>a column of smoke</strong></em>”.<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftn3" name="_ftnref3" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[3]</a> – referring to the cover up allegation argued by Brittany Higgins.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Paragraph 152 – “<em>But irrespective of legal obligation, there are gradations of the seriousness of untruths: an untruthful person <strong>may just be all mouth and trousers</strong>; or be recklessly indifferent to the truth or, by way of compulsion, finds it difficult to discern between what is true and untrue…</em>”<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftn4" name="_ftnref4" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[4]</a> – when commenting on the Hyperbolic submissions made about the credit of Mr Lehrmann.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Paragraph 155 – “<em>When confronted by this inconsistency, his attempt to explain it away by suggesting the attraction he felt for Ms Higgins was ‘<strong>just like [the attraction] I can find [in] anybody else in this [court]room</strong>, irrespective of gender’ <strong>was as disconcerting as it was unconvincing</strong></em>”.<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftn5" name="_ftnref5" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[5]</a>  – referring to Lehrmann denying his attraction to Higgins.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Paragraph 158 – “<em>Mr Lehrmann must have known that the relevant CCTV footage (Ex R42 / Ex 17A) would be examined by some with the intensity that others <strong>analyse the Zapruder film</strong></em>”<em>.</em><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftn6" name="_ftnref6" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[6]</a> – a reference to the famous footage of John F Kennedy allegedly being assassinated by a lone gunman.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Paragraph 200 – “<em>As to the book, as the saying goes, <strong>an autobiography usually reveals nothing bad about its writer except his memory</strong></em>”.<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftn7" name="_ftnref7" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[7]</a>  – referring to Lehrmann’s submission on the “inaccuracies and inconsistencies” within the draft manuscript of Higgins book.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Paragraph 236 – “<em>Having dealt with these <strong>unnecessary complications raised at the heel of the hunt</strong>, I now go back to the real point</em>”.<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftn8" name="_ftnref8" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[8]</a> – when referring to the Commonwealth Deed and the credit of Ms Higgins.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Paragraph 397 – “<em>Ms Higgins seems by this stage to be ebullient, putting her hands in the air and is evidently in high spirits; although it is easy to be distracted at this point in the video <strong>by two happy middle-aged ladies re-enacting what might be a scene out of Mamma Mia</strong> in the background</em>”.<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftn9" name="_ftnref9" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[9]</a>  – referring to the background distractions of the CCTV from The Dock.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Paragraph 422 – “<em><strong>Even if he was in the doghouse</strong> because he had stayed out late, I think it is safe to conclude that the process of getting into a flat he shared with his girlfriend <strong>would have been a significantly less elaborate exercise</strong></em>”.<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftn10" name="_ftnref10" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[10]</a>  – referring to the Lehrmann’s claim that he went back to Parliament House to retrieve his keys, despite the complicated process required to enter his office.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Paragraph 451 – “<em>Mr Fairweather, although an experienced security guard, was <strong>not a breathalyser in human form</strong></em>”.<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftn11" name="_ftnref11" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[11]</a>  – referring to the security guard’s assessment of Lehrmann and Higgins.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Paragraph 462 – “<em>Demonstrating his forensic difficulty with <strong>his representations concerning the Scottish libation</strong>, his evidence on this topic at trial <strong>was all over the shop</strong></em>”.<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftn12" name="_ftnref12" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[12]</a> – referring to Mr Lehrmann’s evidence about having Whisky at the office.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Paragraph 465 – “<em>I have already said enough to indicate that I consider Mr Lehrmann’s account <strong>to be an elaborate fancy</strong></em>”.<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftn13" name="_ftnref13" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[13]</a></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Paragraph 468 – “… <em>one assumes there would have been ways of painting this information more favourably than coming back to the office for no reason other than to <strong>luxuriate while imbibing strong liquor</strong>”.</em><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftn14" name="_ftnref14" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[14]</a></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Paragraph 516 – “<em>Intuitively, given what had been happening, one would think it likely the drinking continued given what we know about Mr Lehrmann encouraging Ms Higgins to imbibe and the rationale given by him for them both to come back to the Suite. <strong> After all, Mr Lehrmann said he was going to show Ms Higgins whisky – not Qing Dynasty ceramics</strong></em>”.<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftn15" name="_ftnref15" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[15]</a>  – referring to whether Lehrmann continued drinking in the ministerial suite.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Paragraph 573 – “<em>Given he had satisfied himself, and that he knew his girlfriend was awake and was attempting to contact him, calling an Uber and getting out of the Ministerial private office with celerity (and leaving Ms Higgins undressed) <strong>is the action of a cad</strong>, but is nonetheless explicable</em>”.<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftn16" name="_ftnref16" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[16]</a></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Paragraph 1091 – “<em>Having escaped the lions’ den, Mr Lehrmann made the mistake of <strong>going back for his hat</strong></em>”<em>.</em><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftn17" name="_ftnref17" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[17]</a> – referring to the Chief Justice’s declaration of a mistrial due to juror misconduct.</p><h3 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 0px; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">Links and further references</h3><h3 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 0px; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">Cases</h3><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.judgments.fedcourt.gov.au/judgments/Judgments/fca/single/2024/2024fca0369" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Lehrmann v Network Ten Pty Limited (Trial Judgment)</em> [2024] FCA 369</a><em>.</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=07A_Azvq2BA&t=1s" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Judgement livestreamed on Youtube</em></a><em>.</em></p><h3 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 0px; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">Further information</h3><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">This is intended to provide a look into some of what we consider to be stoic humour in the judgement of Justice Lee.    It is not complete and we consider that there are also likely to be others!</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><strong><img data-fr-image-pasted="true" src="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/malcolm-burrows-blue-border-150x150.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 174px) 100vw, 174px" srcset="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/malcolm-burrows-blue-border-150x150.jpg 150w, https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/malcolm-burrows-blue-border-226x225.jpg 226w, https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/malcolm-burrows-blue-border.jpg 244w" alt="Malcolm Burrows Lawyer" width="171" height="170" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%;" class="fr-fil fr-dii"></strong></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><strong><br>Malcolm Burrows </strong>B.Bus.,MBA.,LL.B.,LL.M.,MQLS.<br><em>Legal Practice Director<br></em>Telephone: (07) 3221 0013 (<strong>Preferred</strong>)<br>Mobile: 0419 726 535<br><span style="color: rgb(142, 35, 58)"><strong>e: mburrows@dundaslawyers.com.au</strong></span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"> </p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><span style="color: rgb(142, 35, 58)"><strong><em>Disclaimer</em></strong></span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><span style="color: rgb(142, 35, 58)"><em>This article contains general commentary only.  You should not rely on the commentary as legal advice.  Specific legal advice should be obtained to ascertain how the law applies to your particular circumstances</em></span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[1]</a> Lee J, paragraph 2, <a href="https://www.judgments.fedcourt.gov.au/judgments/Judgments/fca/single/2024/2024fca0369" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Lehrmann v Network Ten Pty Limited (Trial Judgment) </em>[2024] FCA 369</a><em>.</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftnref2" name="_ftn2" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[2]</a> Lee J, paragraph 8, <a href="https://www.judgments.fedcourt.gov.au/judgments/Judgments/fca/single/2024/2024fca0369" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Lehrmann v Network Ten Pty Limited (Trial Judgment)</em> [2024] FCA 369</a><em>.</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftnref3" name="_ftn3" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[3]</a> Lee J, paragraph 12, <a href="https://www.judgments.fedcourt.gov.au/judgments/Judgments/fca/single/2024/2024fca0369" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Lehrmann v Network Ten Pty Limited (Trial Judgment) </em>[2024] FCA 369</a><em>.</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftnref4" name="_ftn4" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[4]</a> Lee J, paragraph 152, <a href="https://www.judgments.fedcourt.gov.au/judgments/Judgments/fca/single/2024/2024fca0369" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Lehrmann v Network Ten Pty Limited (Trial Judgment) </em>[2024] FCA 369</a><em>.</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftnref5" name="_ftn5" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[5]</a> Lee J, paragraph 155, <a href="https://www.judgments.fedcourt.gov.au/judgments/Judgments/fca/single/2024/2024fca0369" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Lehrmann v Network Ten Pty Limited (Trial Judgment) </em>[2024] FCA 369</a><em>.</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftnref6" name="_ftn6" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[6]</a> Lee J, paragraph 158, <a href="https://www.judgments.fedcourt.gov.au/judgments/Judgments/fca/single/2024/2024fca0369" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Lehrmann v Network Ten Pty Limited (Trial Judgment) </em>[2024] FCA 369</a><em>.</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftnref7" name="_ftn7" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[7]</a> Lee J, paragraph 200, <a href="https://www.judgments.fedcourt.gov.au/judgments/Judgments/fca/single/2024/2024fca0369" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Lehrmann v Network Ten Pty Limited (Trial Judgment)</em> [2024] FCA 369</a><em>.</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftnref8" name="_ftn8" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[8]</a> Lee J, paragraph 236, <a href="https://www.judgments.fedcourt.gov.au/judgments/Judgments/fca/single/2024/2024fca0369" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Lehrmann v Network Ten Pty Limited (Trial Judgment)</em> [2024] FCA 369</a><em>.</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftnref9" name="_ftn9" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[9]</a> Lee J, paragraph 397, <a href="https://www.judgments.fedcourt.gov.au/judgments/Judgments/fca/single/2024/2024fca0369" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Lehrmann v Network Ten Pty Limited (Trial Judgment) </em>[2024] FCA 369</a><em>.</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftnref10" name="_ftn10" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[10]</a> Lee J, paragraph 422, <a href="https://www.judgments.fedcourt.gov.au/judgments/Judgments/fca/single/2024/2024fca0369" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Lehrmann v Network Ten Pty Limited (Trial Judgment) </em>[2024] FCA 369</a><em>.</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftnref11" name="_ftn11" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[11]</a> Lee J, paragraph 451, <a href="https://www.judgments.fedcourt.gov.au/judgments/Judgments/fca/single/2024/2024fca0369" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Lehrmann v Network Ten Pty Limited (Trial Judgment) </em>[2024] FCA 369</a><em>.</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftnref12" name="_ftn12" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[12]</a> Lee J, paragraph 462, <a href="https://www.judgments.fedcourt.gov.au/judgments/Judgments/fca/single/2024/2024fca0369" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Lehrmann v Network Ten Pty Limited (Trial Judgment) </em>[2024] FCA 369</a><em>.</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftnref13" name="_ftn13" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[13]</a> Lee J, paragraph 465, <a href="https://www.judgments.fedcourt.gov.au/judgments/Judgments/fca/single/2024/2024fca0369" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Lehrmann v Network Ten Pty Limited (Trial Judgment)</em> [2024] FCA 369</a><em>.</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftnref14" name="_ftn14" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[14]</a> Lee J, paragraph 468, <a href="https://www.judgments.fedcourt.gov.au/judgments/Judgments/fca/single/2024/2024fca0369" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Lehrmann v Network Ten Pty Limited (Trial Judgment) </em>[2024] FCA 369</a><em>.</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftnref15" name="_ftn15" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[15]</a> Lee J, paragraph 516, <a href="https://www.judgments.fedcourt.gov.au/judgments/Judgments/fca/single/2024/2024fca0369" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Lehrmann v Network Ten Pty Limited (Trial Judgment) </em>[2024] FCA 369</a><em>.</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftnref16" name="_ftn16" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[16]</a> Lee J, paragraph 573, <a href="https://www.judgments.fedcourt.gov.au/judgments/Judgments/fca/single/2024/2024fca0369" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Lehrmann v Network Ten Pty Limited (Trial Judgment) </em>[2024] FCA 369</a><em>.</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten/#_ftnref17" name="_ftn17" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[17]</a> Lee J, paragraph 1091, <a href="https://www.judgments.fedcourt.gov.au/judgments/Judgments/fca/single/2024/2024fca0369" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Lehrmann v Network Ten Pty Limited (Trial Judgment)</em> [2024] FCA 369</a><em>.</em></p>]]></content:encoded>
  65.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/articles/top-stoic-quotes-from-justice-lee-in-lehrmann-v-network-ten</link>
  66.      <pubDate>Wed, 07 Aug 2024 13:49:42 -1100</pubDate>
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  69.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/articles/provisional-liquidators-and-shareholder-disputes</guid>
  70.      <title><![CDATA[Provisional liquidators and shareholder disputes]]></title>
  71.      <description>The appointment of a provisional liquidator may be appropriate in shareholder disputes if there are genuine concerns that there is a risk a company’s assets will be dissipated, there are potential solvency concerns and all other alternatives have bee...</description>
  72.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;" id="isPasted">The appointment of a provisional liquidator may be appropriate in shareholder disputes if there are genuine concerns that there is a risk a company’s assets will be dissipated, there are potential solvency concerns and all other alternatives have been exhausted.  The appointment of a provisional liquidator by a Court has been said to be ‘<em>a drastic intrusion into the affairs of the company’</em><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/provisional-liquidators-and-shareholder-disputes/#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[1]</a> and is not an order that is made without serious consideration.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Section <a href="http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/cth/consol_act/ca2001172/s472.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">472(2)</a> of the <a href="https://www5.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/cth/consol_act/ca2001172/s447c.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Corporations Act 2001</em> (Cth)</a> grants a Court power to appoint a provisional liquidator and provides that:</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px 40px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><em>“The Court may appoint a registered liquidator provisionally at any time after the filing of a winding up application and before the making of a winding up order or, if there is an appeal against a winding up order, before a decision in the appeal is made.”</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Notably a provisional liquidator can only be appointed after filing a winding up application before a winding up order is made.  In other words, is an interim step.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Threshold requirements</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">The appointment of a provisional liquidator is a discretionary remedy.  A provisional liquidator will not usually be appointed unless it appears, from the evidence, <strong>reasonably likely</strong> that a winding up order will be made.<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/provisional-liquidators-and-shareholder-disputes/#_ftn2" name="_ftnref2" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[2]</a>  In the case of <a href="https://www.austlii.edu.au/cgi-bin/viewdoc/au/cases/cth/FCA/1998/214.html?context=1;query=Australian%20Securities%20Commission%20v%20Solomon;mask_path=" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Australian Securities Commission v Emad Kamel Solomon & Ors</em> [1998] FCA 214 (20 February 1998)</a>, it was said that any person seeking to appoint a provisional liquidator must show that there is <strong>a real and present threat to a company’s assets</strong> were the status quo to continue.<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/provisional-liquidators-and-shareholder-disputes/#_ftn3" name="_ftnref3" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[3]</a></p><h3 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 0px; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">Circumstances that a Court will take into consideration in exercising its discretion</h3><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">The circumstances that the Court will take into consideration in making a decision to appoint a provisional liquidator include:</p><ul style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 15px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><li style='margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; list-style-image: url("https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/themes/corporate/images/bullet-lion.gif") list-style-type: none;'>the degree of urgency established by the applicant;</li><li style='margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; list-style-image: url("https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/themes/corporate/images/bullet-lion.gif") list-style-type: none;'>whether the respondent’s assets need to be protected from dissipation or seizure;</li><li style='margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; list-style-image: url("https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/themes/corporate/images/bullet-lion.gif") list-style-type: none;'>whether the company may be paralysed by a dispute between shareholders and directors;</li><li style='margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; list-style-image: url("https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/themes/corporate/images/bullet-lion.gif") list-style-type: none;'>suspicious circumstances disclosed by the evidence warranting appointment;<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/provisional-liquidators-and-shareholder-disputes/#_ftn4" name="_ftnref4" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[4]</a></li><li style='margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; list-style-image: url("https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/themes/corporate/images/bullet-lion.gif") list-style-type: none;'>the extent to which the appointment of a provisional liquidator will impede a company’s normal operations.<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/provisional-liquidators-and-shareholder-disputes/#_ftn5" name="_ftnref5" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[5]</a></li></ul><h3 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 0px; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">Categories of cases relating to the conduct of the Parties</h3><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">The following cases are illustrative of the circumstances the Court took into account to appoint a provisional liquidator:</p><ul style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 15px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><li style='margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; list-style-image: url("https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/themes/corporate/images/bullet-lion.gif") list-style-type: none;'><strong>Assets not in jeopardy</strong> – <em>Australian Securities Commission v Solomon (1996)</em> 19 ACSR 73 at 80;</li><li style='margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; list-style-image: url("https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/themes/corporate/images/bullet-lion.gif") list-style-type: none;'><strong>Breaches of statutory or fiduciary duties by Directors</strong> – <a href="https://jade.io/article/182979" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Shum Yip Properties Development Ltd v Chatswood Investment and Development Co Pty Ltd</em></a> [2002] NSWSC 13 (2002) 40 ACSR;</li><li style='margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; list-style-image: url("https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/themes/corporate/images/bullet-lion.gif") list-style-type: none;'><strong>Misappropriation of funds</strong> – <a href="https://iknow.cch.com.au/document/atagUio381290sl10478372/martin-v-australian-squash-club-pty-ltd-ors" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Martin v Australian Squash Club Pty Ltd </em></a><a href="https://iknow.cch.com.au/document/atagUio381290sl10478372/martin-v-australian-squash-club-pty-ltd-ors" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">(1996) 14 ACLC 452</a>; <a href="http://www.austlii.edu.au/cgi-bin/sinodisp/au/cases/cth/FCA/2007/1483.html?stem=0&synonyms=0&query=cth%20consol_act%20ca2001172%20s472" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Emmacourt Pty Limited v Jewels of Australia Pty Limited</em> [2007] FCA 1483</a> Payment of funds contrary to the interlocutory orders designed to preserve the status quo.</li><li style='margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; list-style-image: url("https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/themes/corporate/images/bullet-lion.gif") list-style-type: none;'><strong>Lack of urgency</strong> – <a href="http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/cases/nsw/NSWSC/2004/261.html" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Allstate Exploration v Batepro</em> [2004] NSWSC 261</a>.</li><li style='margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; list-style-image: url("https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/themes/corporate/images/bullet-lion.gif") list-style-type: none;'><strong>Suspicious circumstances</strong> – <a href="http://www.austlii.edu.au/cgi-bin/sinodisp/au/cases/cth/FCA/2007/1483.html?stem=0&synonyms=0&query=cth%20consol_act%20ca2001172%20s472" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Emmacourt Pty Limited v Jewels of Australia Pty Limited</em> [2007] FCA 1483</a>; <em>Riviana (Aust) Pty Ltd v Laospac Trading Pty Ltd</em> (1986) 10 ACLR 865 [866].</li></ul><h3 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 0px; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">Misappropriation of funds</h3><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">In the case of <a href="https://iknow.cch.com.au/document/atagUio381290sl10478372/martin-v-australian-squash-club-pty-ltd-ors" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Martin v Australian Squash Club Pty Ltd </em></a><a href="https://iknow.cch.com.au/document/atagUio381290sl10478372/martin-v-australian-squash-club-pty-ltd-ors" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">(1996) 14 ACLC 452</a>, a director that had misappropriated/misused company funds and assets was held to have breached his fiduciary duties.  The alleged acts of oppression were:</p><ul style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 15px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><li style='margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; list-style-image: url("https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/themes/corporate/images/bullet-lion.gif") list-style-type: none;'>misuse of money and assets of the company;</li><li style='margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; list-style-image: url("https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/themes/corporate/images/bullet-lion.gif") list-style-type: none;'>failure to call general meetings and directors’ meetings and/or to give notice of such meetings to the plaintiff;</li><li style='margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; list-style-image: url("https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/themes/corporate/images/bullet-lion.gif") list-style-type: none;'>failure to keep proper accounting and other records of the company;</li><li style='margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; list-style-image: url("https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/themes/corporate/images/bullet-lion.gif") list-style-type: none;'>failure to provide the plaintiff with access to the records of the company; and</li><li style='margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; list-style-image: url("https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/themes/corporate/images/bullet-lion.gif") list-style-type: none;'>other matters, such as a purported transfer of ten shares between the second and third defendants and the appointment of the second defendant as manager.</li></ul><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">These actions were mainly alleged against the second defendant, Mr Harte.  The plaintiff alleged that several transactions amounted to misuse or misappropriate use of company of company assets.   Although each breach on its own was not sufficient to amount to oppression, it was found that the cumulative effect was sufficient.</p><h3 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 0px; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">Suspicious circumstances disclosed by evidence warranting appointment</h3><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">In <a href="http://www.austlii.edu.au/cgi-bin/sinodisp/au/cases/cth/FCA/2007/1483.html?stem=0&synonyms=0&query=cth%20consol_act%20ca2001172%20s472" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Emmacourt Pty Limited v Jewels of Australia Pty Limited</em> [2007] FCA 1483</a>, Tamberlin J provided at [9] that the authorities indicated that the Court will not generally appoint a provisional liquidator unless there is reasonable prospect that a winding up order will be made.<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/provisional-liquidators-and-shareholder-disputes/#_ftn6" name="_ftnref6" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[6]</a>   It was further stated that an applicant must show some good reason for the intervention by way of the discretionary remedy, <strong>prior to the final hearing on the winding up application</strong> to demonstrate that the appointment is needed in the public interest or to preserve the status quo or to protect the company’s assets and affairs.<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/provisional-liquidators-and-shareholder-disputes/#_ftn7" name="_ftnref7" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[7]</a>  In this case, it was said that:</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px 40px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><em>“Due to the respondents’ failure to comply with the Orders of the Court, he has a real fear that the assets of the second and third respondents will be in jeopardy unless a provisional liquidator is appointed.”</em><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/provisional-liquidators-and-shareholder-disputes/#_ftn8" name="_ftnref8" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[8]</a></p><h3 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 0px; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">Takeaways on financial impropriety</h3><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Where there is evidence of financial impropriety and a genuine risk that directors will dissipate assets, a provisional liquidator may be appointed with the consequence that their malfeasance may be revealed.   Making an application to wind up a company on just and equitable grounds pursuant to section<a href="https://www5.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/cth/consol_act/ca2001172/s461.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"> 461(k)</a> of the <em>Corporations Act 2001 </em>(Cth) comes with risks.</p><h3 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 0px; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">Links and further references</h3><h3 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 0px; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">Related articles</h3><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/shareholder-oppression/" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Shareholder oppression.</em></a></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/shareholder-disputes-the-fight-for-control/" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Shareholder disputes – the fight for control</em></a></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/shareholder-oppression-valuation-issues/#:~:text=Shareholder%20oppression%20or%20minority%20shareholder,or%20control%20the%20minority%20shareholders.&text=If%20a%20buyout%20order%20is,majority%20buy%20out%20the%20minority" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Shareholder oppression – valuation issues</em></a></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/just-and-equitable-winding-up-for-shareholder-oppression/" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Just and equitable winding up for shareholder oppression</em></a></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/just-and-equitable-grounds-but-what-about-that-helicopter/" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Just and equitable grounds – but what about that helicopter?</em></a></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/videos/early-warning-signs-of-shareholder-oppression/" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Early warning signs of shareholder oppression.</em></a></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/shareholder-oppression-remedies-to-buy-back-or-wind-up/" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Shareholder oppression remedies – to buy-back or wind up?</em></a></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/shareholder-oppression-combined-effect-adds-up/" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Shareholder oppression – combined effect adds up.</em></a></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/shareholder-oppression-in-equal-ownership-situations/" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Shareholder oppression in equal ownership situations.</em></a></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/shareholder-oppression-a-taxonomy-of-corporate-wrongs/" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Shareholder oppression – a taxonomy of corporate wrongs</em></a><em>.</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/shareholder-oppression-the-early-warning-signs/" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Shareholder oppression – the early warning signs</em></a><em>.</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/shareholder-oppression-valuation-issues/" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Shareholder oppression – valuation issues</em></a><em>.</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/can-a-company-be-wound-up-under-s-461k-for-failing-to-achieve-its-objectives/" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Can a company be wound up under s 461K for failing to achieve its objectives?</em></a></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/company-money-is-for-company-purposes/#_ftnref6" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Company money is for company purposes</em></a><em>.</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/shareholders-agreements-deadlock-clauses/" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Shareholders’ agreements & deadlock clauses</em></a><em>.</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/shareholders-right-to-information/" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Shareholders’ right to information</em></a><em>.</em></p><h3 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 0px; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">Legislation</h3><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/cth/consol_act/ca2001172/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Corporations Act 2001</em> (Cth)</a>.</p><h3 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 0px; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">Case law</h3><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/cases/nsw/NSWSC/2004/261.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Allstate Exploration v Batepro</em> [2004] NSWSC 261</a><u>.</u></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.austlii.edu.au/cgi-bin/viewdoc/au/cases/cth/FCA/1998/214.html?context=1;query=Australian%20Securities%20Commission%20v%20Solomon;mask_path=" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Australian Securities Commission v Emad Kamel Solomon & Ors</em> [1998] FCA 214 (20 February 1998)</a>.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="http://www.austlii.edu.au/cgi-bin/sinodisp/au/cases/cth/FCA/2009/738.html?stem=0&synonyms=0&query=cth%20consol_act%20ca2001172%20s472%20and%20law%20firm" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Beautree Pty Limited, in the matter of Willow Glade Pty Limited v Willow Glade Pty Limited</em> [2009] FCA 738</a>.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><em>Constantinidis v JGL Trading Pty Ltd</em> (1995) 17 ACSR 625, at 635.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="http://www.austlii.edu.au/cgi-bin/sinodisp/au/cases/cth/FCA/2007/1483.html?stem=0&synonyms=0&query=cth%20consol_act%20ca2001172%20s472" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Emmacourt Pty Limited v Jewels of Australia Pty Limited</em> [2007] FCA 1483</a>.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><em>Professional Services Of Australia Pty Ltd -V- Computer Accounting And Tax Pty Ltd </em>[2010] WASC 38.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://dundaslawyers.sharepoint.com/sites/DundasLawyers/BD%20Articles/Shum%20Yip%20Properties%20v%20Chatswood%20Investment%20and%20Development%20%5b2002%5d%20NSWSC%2013" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Shum Yip Properties Development Ltd v Chatswood Investment and Development Co Pty Ltd</em> [2002] NSWSC 13 (2002) 40 ACSR</a><em>.</em></p><h2 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 2px; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">Further information</h2><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">If you need advice on appointing a provisional liquidator in a shareholder’s dispute because you are concerned about asset dissipation, contact us for a confidential and obligation free and discussion:</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><strong><img data-fr-image-pasted="true" src="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/malcolm-burrows-blue-border-150x150.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 174px) 100vw, 174px" srcset="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/malcolm-burrows-blue-border-150x150.jpg 150w, https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/malcolm-burrows-blue-border-226x225.jpg 226w, https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/malcolm-burrows-blue-border.jpg 244w" alt="Malcolm Burrows Lawyer" width="171" height="170" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%;" class="fr-fil fr-dii"></strong></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"> </p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><strong>Malcolm Burrows </strong>B.Bus.,MBA.,LL.B.,LL.M.,MQLS.<br><em>Legal Practice Director<br></em>Telephone: (07) 3221 0013 (<strong>Preferred</strong>)<br>Mobile: 0419 726 535<br><span style="color: rgb(142, 35, 68)"><strong>e: mburrows@dundaslawyers.com.au</strong></span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><span style="color: rgb(142, 35, 68)"><strong><em><br>Disclaimer</em></strong></span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><span style="color: rgb(142, 35, 68)"><em>This article contains general commentary only.  You should not rely on the commentary as legal advice.  Specific legal advice should be obtained to ascertain how the law applies to your particular circumstances</em></span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/provisional-liquidators-and-shareholder-disputes/#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[1]</a> <a href="https://jade.io/article/133562?at.hl=Allstate+Explorations+NL+v+Batepro+Australia+Pty+Limited++%255B2004%255D+NSWSC+261" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Allstate Explorations NL v Batepro Australia Pty Limited</em> [2004] NSWSC 261 [30].</a></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/provisional-liquidators-and-shareholder-disputes/#_ftnref2" name="_ftn2" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[2]</a> <a href="https://jade.io/article/133562?at.hl=Kirby+P+in+Constantinidis+(at+636)%252C+citing+Re+McLennan+Holdings+Pty+Ltd+(1983)+7+ACLR+732" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Re McLennan Holdings Pty Ltd</em> (1983) 7 ACLR 732</a> [636].</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/provisional-liquidators-and-shareholder-disputes/#_ftnref3" name="_ftn3" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[3]</a> <a href="https://www.austlii.edu.au/cgi-bin/viewdoc/au/cases/cth/FCA/1998/214.html?context=1;query=Australian%20Securities%20Commission%20v%20Solomon;mask_path=" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Australian Securities Commission v Emad Kamel Solomon & Ors</em> [1998] FCA 214 (20 February 1998)</a> [80].</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/provisional-liquidators-and-shareholder-disputes/#_ftnref4" name="_ftn4" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[4]</a> <em>Riviana (Aust) Pty Ltd v Laospac Trading Pty Ltd</em>  (1986) 10 ACLR 865 [866].</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/provisional-liquidators-and-shareholder-disputes/#_ftnref5" name="_ftn5" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[5]</a> <em>Re McLennan Holdings Pty Limited</em> (1983) 1 ACLC 786 [788].</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/provisional-liquidators-and-shareholder-disputes/#_ftnref6" name="_ftn6" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[6]</a> <a href="https://www.austlii.edu.au/cgi-bin/viewdoc/au/cases/cth/FCA/2007/1483.html?stem=0&synonyms=0&query=cth%2520consol_act%2520ca2001172%2520s472" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Emmacourt Pty Limited v Jewels of Australia Pty Limited</em> [2007] FCA 1483</a> [9]citing<em> Tickle v Crest Insurance Co. of Australia Limited</em> (1984) 2 ACLC 493 [494].</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/provisional-liquidators-and-shareholder-disputes/#_ftnref7" name="_ftn7" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[7]</a> <a href="https://jade.io/article/133562?at.hl=Allstate+Explorations+NL+v+Batepro+Australia+Pty+Limited++%255B2004%255D+NSWSC+261" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Allstate Explorations NL v Batepro Australia Pty Limited</em> [2004] NSWSC 261 [30].</a></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/provisional-liquidators-and-shareholder-disputes/#_ftnref8" name="_ftn8" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[8]</a> <a href="http://www.austlii.edu.au/cgi-bin/sinodisp/au/cases/cth/FCA/2007/1483.html?stem=0&synonyms=0&query=cth%20consol_act%20ca2001172%20s472" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Emmacourt Pty Limited v Jewels of Australia Pty Limited</em> [2007] FCA 1483</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
  73.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/articles/provisional-liquidators-and-shareholder-disputes</link>
  74.      <pubDate>Wed, 07 Aug 2024 13:49:03 -1100</pubDate>
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  77.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/articles/the-%E2%80%98right-to-disconnect%E2%80%99-from-modern-workplaces</guid>
  78.      <title><![CDATA[The ‘right to disconnect’ from modern workplaces]]></title>
  79.      <description>The right to disconnect, as contained in part 8 of the   Fair Work Amendment (Closing Loopholes No. 2) Bill  (Bill), gives employees the right to refuse contact from their employers (or related parties) outside of their working hours, unless the refu...</description>
  80.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;" id="isPasted">The right to disconnect, as contained in part 8 of the  <a href="https://www.austlii.edu.au/cgi-bin/viewdoc/au/legis/cth/num_act/fwlaln2a2024513/sch1.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Fair Work Amendment (Closing Loopholes No. 2) Bill</em></a> (<strong>Bill</strong>), gives employees the right to refuse contact from their employers (or related parties) outside of their working hours, unless the refusal is unreasonable.  The changes in part 8 amend various sections of the <a href="https://www8.austlii.edu.au/cgi-bin/viewdb/au/legis/cth/consol_act/fwa2009114/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Fair Work Act 2009</em> (Cth)</a> (<strong>Act</strong>) and come in response to increasing concerns about psycho-social hazards in the workplace including stress and overwork.<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/the-right-to-disconnect-from-modern-workplaces/#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[1]</a></p><h2 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 2px; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">The right to disconnect provisions</h2><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">The Bill is set to introduce the right to disconnect in section 333M(1) and (2) of the Act.  It states that employees have the right to:</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px 40px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><em>“(1) refuse to monitor, read or respond to contact, or attempted contact, from an employer outside of the employee’s working hours unless the refusal is unreasonable.</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px 40px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><em> </em><em>(2) refuse to monitor, read or respond to contact, or attempted contact, from a third party if the contact or attempted contact relates to their work and is outside of the employee’s working hours unless the refusal is unreasonable.”</em><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/the-right-to-disconnect-from-modern-workplaces/#_ftn2" name="_ftnref2" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[2]</a></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">This amendment allows employees to decline communication with their employer or related entities outside of working hours, provided the refusal is not unreasonable.  Amended section 333M(3) of the Act will include a <em>non-exhaustive</em> list of factors to consider when determining the <strong>reasonableness</strong> of a refusal, including:</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px 40px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><em>“(a) the purpose of the contact;</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px 40px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><em>(b) the method and disruption caused by the contact;</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px 40px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><em>(c) compensation for the employee;</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px 40px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><em>(d) the employee’s role and responsibilities; and</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px 40px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><em>(e) the employee’s personal circumstances, such as family or caregiving responsibilities.”</em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">These changes will come into effect on:</p><ul style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 15px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><li style='margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; list-style-image: url("https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/themes/corporate/images/bullet-lion.gif") list-style-type: none;'><strong>26 August 2024</strong> for non-small business employers; and</li><li style='margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; list-style-image: url("https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/themes/corporate/images/bullet-lion.gif") list-style-type: none;'><strong>26 August 2025</strong> for small business employers.<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/the-right-to-disconnect-from-modern-workplaces/#_ftn3" name="_ftnref3" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[3]</a></li></ul><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Consequently, any business with more than fifteen (15) employees will need to comply with the new regulations by 26 August 2024, while small businesses with less than (15) employees will have an additional year to implement the required adjustments.</p><h3 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 0px; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">What happens when disputes regarding ‘reasonableness’ occur?</h3><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">In the event of a dispute about reasonableness, the parties are initially encouraged to resolve the dispute at a workplace level through discussion.  However, if discussions fail to reach a resolution, either party can make an application to the Fair Work Commission under 333N(3) to have the matter resolved.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Under the proposed implementation of section 333N(3) to the Act, the Fair Work Commission would have the authority to:</p><ul style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 15px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><li style='margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; list-style-image: url("https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/themes/corporate/images/bullet-lion.gif") list-style-type: none;'>make a stop order under section 333P, requiring the employee to stop refusing contact or stop taking certain actions; or</li><li style='margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; list-style-image: url("https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/themes/corporate/images/bullet-lion.gif") list-style-type: none;'>otherwise, deal with the situation.<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/the-right-to-disconnect-from-modern-workplaces/#_ftn4" name="_ftnref4" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[4]</a></li></ul><h3 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 0px; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">Takeaways</h3><ul style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 15px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><li style='margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; list-style-image: url("https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/themes/corporate/images/bullet-lion.gif") list-style-type: none;'>Employers need to be aware of the right to disconnect laws and should take steps to ensure that they ‘establish clear boundaries’ to prevent excessive work-related demands after work.</li><li style='margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; list-style-image: url("https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/themes/corporate/images/bullet-lion.gif") list-style-type: none;'>The right to disconnect provisions commences on 26 August 2024 for businesses with more than fifteen (15) employees, and on 26 August 2026 for business with less than fifteen (15) employees.</li></ul><h3 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 0px; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">Links and further references</h3><h3 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 0px; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">Related articles</h3><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/high-court-clarifies-meaning-of-casual-employment/" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>High Court clarifies meaning of casual employment.</em></a></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/legal-services/commercial-law/employment-law/" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Employment Law for employers.</em></a></p><h3 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 0px; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">Legislation</h3><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.austlii.edu.au/cgi-bin/viewdoc/au/legis/cth/num_act/fwlaln2a2024513/sch1.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Fair Work Amendment (Closing Loopholes No. 2) Bill.</em></a></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www8.austlii.edu.au/cgi-bin/viewdb/au/legis/cth/consol_act/fwa2009114/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth).</em></a></p><h3 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 0px; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">Further information</h3><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">If you need advice on how these changes affect your business please contact us for a confidential and obligation free and discussion:</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><strong><img data-fr-image-pasted="true" src="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/malcolm-burrows-blue-border-150x150.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 174px) 100vw, 174px" srcset="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/malcolm-burrows-blue-border-150x150.jpg 150w, https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/malcolm-burrows-blue-border-226x225.jpg 226w, https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/malcolm-burrows-blue-border.jpg 244w" alt="Malcolm Burrows Lawyer" width="171" height="170" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%;" class="fr-fil fr-dii"></strong></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><strong><br>Malcolm Burrows </strong>B.Bus.,MBA.,LL.B.,LL.M.,MQLS.<br><em>Legal Practice Director<br></em>T: (07) 3221 0013 (<strong>preferred</strong>)<br>M: 0419 726 535<br><span style="color: rgb(142, 35, 68)"><strong>E: mburrows@dundaslawyers.com.au</strong></span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><span style="color: rgb(142, 35, 68)"><strong><em>Disclaimer</em></strong></span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><span style="color: rgb(142, 35, 68)"><em>This article contains general commentary only.  You should not rely on the commentary as legal advice.  Specific legal advice should be obtained to ascertain how the law applies to your particular circumstance</em></span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/the-right-to-disconnect-from-modern-workplaces/#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[1]</a>     University of New South Wales, <em>‘Right to Disconnect: Will it work?  And what does it mean?’ </em>(Newsroom, 3 March 2024) <a href="https://www.unsw.edu.au/newsroom/news/2024/03/right-to-disconnect--will-it-work--and-what-does-it-mean---#:~:text=Australia's%20new%20legal%20right%20to,outside%20of%20designated%20working%20hours." style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">https://www.unsw.edu.au/newsroom/news/2024/03/right-to-disconnect–will-it-work–and-what-does-it-mean—#:~:text=Australia’s%20new%20legal%20right%20to,outside%20of%20designated%20working%20hours.</a>, accessed [1 May 2024]; Parliament of Australia, ‘Treasury Laws Amendment (Making Sure Multinationals Pay Their Fair Share of Tax in Australia and Other Measures) Bill 2018’ (Parliamentary Business) <a href="https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/bd/bd2324a/24bd052" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/bd/bd2324a/24bd052</a> (accessed 2 May 2024).</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/the-right-to-disconnect-from-modern-workplaces/#_ftnref2" name="_ftn2" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[2]</a>     <a href="https://www.legislation.gov.au/C2024A00002/latest/text" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Fair Work Amendment (Closing Loopholes No. 2) Bill</em></a><em><u>.</u></em></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/the-right-to-disconnect-from-modern-workplaces/#_ftnref3" name="_ftn3" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[3]</a>     Fair Work Ombudsman, ‘Right to Disconnect’ (About Us) <a href="https://www.fairwork.gov.au/about-us/workplace-laws/legislation-changes/closing-loopholes/right-to-disconnect" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">https://www.fairwork.gov.au/about-us/workplace-laws/legislation-changes/closing-loopholes/right-to-disconnect</a> (accessed 2 May 2024).</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/the-right-to-disconnect-from-modern-workplaces/#_ftnref4" name="_ftn4" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[4]</a> <a href="https://www.legislation.gov.au/C2024A00002/latest/text" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Fair Work Amendment (Closing Loopholes No. 2) Bill</em></a> s 333N(3).</p>]]></content:encoded>
  81.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/articles/the-%E2%80%98right-to-disconnect%E2%80%99-from-modern-workplaces</link>
  82.      <pubDate>Wed, 07 Aug 2024 13:48:04 -1100</pubDate>
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  85.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/articles/ip-australia-adopts-madrid-goods-and-services-list</guid>
  86.      <title><![CDATA[IP Australia adopts Madrid Goods and Services list]]></title>
  87.      <description>From 26 March 2024, IP Australia has implemented the internationally recognised Madrid Goods and Services list (Madrid List), replacing the AU Goods and Services Picklist.[1]  The adoption of the Madrid List comes as Intellectual Property Australia (...</description>
  88.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;" id="isPasted">From 26 March 2024, IP Australia has implemented the internationally recognised Madrid Goods and Services list (<strong>Madrid List</strong>), replacing the AU Goods and Services Picklist.<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/ip-australia-adopts-madrid-goods-and-services-list/#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[1]</a>  The adoption of the Madrid List comes as Intellectual Property Australia (<strong>IP Australia</strong>) seeks to align the Australian classification standards with the other intellectual property offices around the world.<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/ip-australia-adopts-madrid-goods-and-services-list/#_ftn2" name="_ftnref2" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[2]</a></p><h3 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 0px; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">Adopting the Madrid List</h3><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">The Madrid List is an internationally recognised database of terms used to classify goods and services for trademark applications.<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/ip-australia-adopts-madrid-goods-and-services-list/#_ftn3" name="_ftnref3" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[3]</a>  114 members from 130 countries representing eighty percent (80%) of world trade are party to the Madrid Protocol,<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/ip-australia-adopts-madrid-goods-and-services-list/#_ftn4" name="_ftnref4" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[4]</a> with approximately 486,308 trademark applications being made under the Madrid system annually.<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/ip-australia-adopts-madrid-goods-and-services-list/#_ftn5" name="_ftnref5" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[5]</a></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">By adopting the Madrid List, IP Australia is harmonising Australian classification standards with the globally recognised norms of trademark classifications.   This change provides Australian trademark applicants and owners a more comprehensive classification standards (from 60,000 to 130,000 terms)<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/ip-australia-adopts-madrid-goods-and-services-list/#_ftn6" name="_ftnref6" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[6]</a> and the streamlining of the registration of Australian trademarks.</p><h3 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 0px; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">Benefits to Australian trademark applicants and holders</h3><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">According to IP Australia and WIPO, the adoption of the Madrid List offers the following benefits to Australian trademark applicants and owners:</p><ul style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 15px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><li style='margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; list-style-image: url("https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/themes/corporate/images/bullet-lion.gif") list-style-type: none;'><strong>Efficiency boost:</strong> The Madrid List’s standardised classification system reduces ambiguity, speeding up trademark registration.</li><li style='margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; list-style-image: url("https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/themes/corporate/images/bullet-lion.gif") list-style-type: none;'><strong>International reach:</strong> Australian businesses can protect their trademarks across multiple countries through a single application where the classes of goods and services are the same.</li><li style='margin: 0px 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; list-style-image: url("https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/themes/corporate/images/bullet-lion.gif") list-style-type: none;'><strong>Global consistency:</strong> Aligning with the Madrid system ensures Australia’s trademark classification standards are consistent with international norms. According to WIPO this promotes smoother cross-border trade and enhances Australia’s competitiveness in the global market.<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/ip-australia-adopts-madrid-goods-and-services-list/#_ftn7" name="_ftnref7" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[7]</a></li></ul><h3 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 0px; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">Consideration post-Madrid List implementation for trademark applicants and owners</h3><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">While the Madrid List offers 70,000 additional terms compared to the AU Goods and Services Picklist, this doesn’t inherently lead to broader claims within each class.   International trademark offices under the Madrid system, typically require more specific and narrow descriptions for goods and services seeking trademark protection.  In November 2023, IP Australia in collaboration with WIPO, released a classification update revealing that approximately forty percent (40%) of international trademark applications originating from Australia received irregularity notices, with around eighty percent (80%) attributed to specific issues with the AU Goods and Services Picklist.<a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/ip-australia-adopts-madrid-goods-and-services-list/#_ftn8" name="_ftnref8" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[8]</a></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">Consequently, under the Madrid system, trademark applicants and owners must adopt a more comprehensive and deliberate approach to cover all goods and services associated with their marks, given the specific and narrow description requirements.</p><h3 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 0px; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">Takeaways</h3><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">The adoption of the Madrid List aligns IP Australia with the international classification standard, streamlining the international process for registering Australian trademarks.  Given the changes to the classification standards, Australian trademark applicants and owners should opt to implement a more thorough and intentional strategy in securing their marks.</p><h3 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 0px; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">Related articles on trademark protection</h3><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/ip-australia-guidelines-for-trademark-classification/" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">IP Australia guidelines for trademark classification</a></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/non-fungible-tokens-the-new-way-to-own-ip/" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">Non-fungible tokens – the new way to own IP?</a></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/unjustified-threats-of-trademark-infringement/" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">Unjustified threats of trademark infringement</a></p><h3 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 0px; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">Legislation</h3><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.wipo.int/wipolex/en/treaties/textdetails/12599" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Madrid Agreement 1983</em></a></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.wipo.int/wipolex/en/treaties/textdetails/12603" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;"><em>Madrid Protocol 2008</em></a></p><h3 style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 10px 0px 0px; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)">Further information</h3><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;">If you need advice on how the Madrid List effects your business contact us for a confidential and obligation free and discussion:</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><strong><img data-fr-image-pasted="true" src="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/malcolm-burrows-blue-border-150x150.jpg" sizes="(max-width: 174px) 100vw, 174px" srcset="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/malcolm-burrows-blue-border-150x150.jpg 150w, https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/malcolm-burrows-blue-border-226x225.jpg 226w, https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/malcolm-burrows-blue-border.jpg 244w" alt="Malcolm Burrows Lawyer" width="171" height="170" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%;" class="fr-fil fr-dii"></strong></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><strong>Malcolm Burrows </strong>B.Bus.,MBA.,LL.B.,LL.M.,MQLS.<br><em>Legal Practice Director<br></em>Telephone: (07) 3221 0013 (<strong>Preferred</strong>)<br>Mobile: 0419 726 535<br><span style="color: rgb(142, 35, 68)"><strong>e: mburrows@dundaslawyers.com.au</strong></span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><span style="color: rgb(142, 35, 68)"><strong><em><br>Disclaimer</em></strong></span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><span style="color: rgb(142, 35, 68)"><em>This article contains general commentary only.  You should not rely on the commentary as legal advice.  Specific legal advice should be obtained to ascertain how the law applies to your particular circumstances</em></span></p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/ip-australia-adopts-madrid-goods-and-services-list/#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[1]</a>   IP Australia, ‘Madrid Goods and Services list’ (Web Page, 26 March 2024) <a href="https://www.ipaustralia.gov.au/news-and-community/news/Madrid-Goods-and-Services-list" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">https://www.ipaustralia.gov.au/news-and-community/news/Madrid-Goods-and-Services-list</a> accessed 7 May 2024.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/ip-australia-adopts-madrid-goods-and-services-list/#_ftnref2" name="_ftn2" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[2]</a>    IP Australia, ‘Adopting the Madrid Goods and Services List’ (Web Page, 26 March 2024) <a href="https://www.ipaustralia.gov.au/news-and-community/news/Madrid-Goods-and-Services-list" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">https://www.ipaustralia.gov.au/news-and-community/news/Madrid-Goods-and-Services-list</a> accessed 7 May 2024.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/ip-australia-adopts-madrid-goods-and-services-list/#_ftnref3" name="_ftn3" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[3]</a>    IP Australia, ‘Madrid Goods and Services list’ (Web Page, 26 March 2024) <a href="https://www.ipaustralia.gov.au/news-and-community/news/Madrid-Goods-and-Services-list" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">https://www.ipaustralia.gov.au/news-and-community/news/Madrid-Goods-and-Services-list</a> accessed 7 May 2024.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/ip-australia-adopts-madrid-goods-and-services-list/#_ftnref4" name="_ftn4" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[4]</a>    World Intellectual Property Organization, “Madrid System – Members” (Web Page) <a href="https://www.wipo.int/web/madrid-system/members/index" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">https://www.wipo.int/web/madrid-system/members/index</a> accessed 7 May 2024.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/ip-australia-adopts-madrid-goods-and-services-list/#_ftnref5" name="_ftn5" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[5]</a>     WIPO, ‘WIPO Intellectual Property Statistics: Trademark Data Search’ (Search query, WIPO Intellectual Property Statistics) <a href="https://www3.wipo.int/ipstats/ips-search/search result?type=IPS&selectedTab=trademark&indicator=32&reportType=11&fromYear=1980&toYear=2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">https://www3.wipo.int/ipstats/ips-search/search result?type=IPS&selectedTab=trademark&indicator=32&reportType=11&fromYear=1980&toYear=2022</a>  accessed 8 May 2024.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/ip-australia-adopts-madrid-goods-and-services-list/#_ftnref6" name="_ftn6" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[6]</a>    WIPO, ‘Madrid Goods and Services List: Roundtable Discussion on Australia’ (21st Meeting of the Working Group on the Legal Development of the Madrid System, Topic 3) <a href="https://www.wipo.int/edocs/mdocs/madrid/en/mm_ld_wg_21/mm_ld_wg_21_roundtable_topic_3_australia.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: underline; outline: 0px;">https://www.wipo.int/edocs/mdocs/madrid/en/mm_ld_wg_21/mm_ld_wg_21_roundtable_topic_3_australia.pdf</a> accessed 7 May 2024.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/ip-australia-adopts-madrid-goods-and-services-list/#_ftnref7" name="_ftn7" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[7]</a>    World Intellectual Property Organization, ‘WIPO Magazine – Madrid System: “A Good Investment” (Web Page, 2016) <a href="https://www.wipo.int/wipo_magazine/en/2016/04/article_0002.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">https://www.wipo.int/wipo_magazine/en/2016/04/article_0002.html</a> accessed 7 May 2024.</p><p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 10px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0) font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Verdana; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><a href="https://www.dundaslawyers.com.au/ip-australia-adopts-madrid-goods-and-services-list/#_ftnref8" name="_ftn8" style="color: rgb(58, 135, 221) text-decoration: none;">[8]</a>    Ibid.</p>]]></content:encoded>
  89.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/articles/ip-australia-adopts-madrid-goods-and-services-list</link>
  90.      <pubDate>Wed, 07 Aug 2024 13:47:24 -1100</pubDate>
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  93.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/videos/vasiliou-law-expands-across-nyc-long-island-criminal-family-immigration-attorneys</guid>
  94.      <title><![CDATA[Vasiliou Law Expands Across NYC & Long Island | Criminal, Family & Immigration Attorneys]]></title>
  95.      <description> Vasiliou Law is proud to expand its trusted legal services across all five boroughs of New York City—Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, The Bronx, and Staten Island—as well as Long Island. With over 40 years of combined experience, our team of aggressive ...</description>
  96.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 12.0px 0.0px; font: 20.0px 'Times New Roman'; -webkit-text-stroke: #000000;" id="isPasted"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-size: 20.00px; font-kerning: none;">Vasiliou Law is proud to expand its trusted legal services across all five boroughs of New York City—Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, The Bronx, and Staten Island—as well as Long Island. With over 40 years of combined experience, our team of aggressive and compassionate attorneys provides personalized representation in criminal defense, immigration law, and family law.</span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 12.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; -webkit-text-stroke: #000000; min-height: 13.8px;"><br></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 12.0px 0.0px; font: 20.0px 'Times New Roman'; -webkit-text-stroke: #000000;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-size: 20.00px; font-kerning: none;">This video offers an inside look at our modern Queens office and the story behind our mission: to defend your rights with experience, empathy, and unwavering determination. From defending serious felony charges to helping families navigate custody disputes or securing legal status through immigration relief, Vasiliou Law is committed to delivering results-driven advocacy that gets noticed in and out of court.</span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 12.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; -webkit-text-stroke: #000000; min-height: 13.8px;"><br></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 12.0px 0.0px; font: 20.0px 'Times New Roman'; -webkit-text-stroke: #000000;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-size: 20.00px; font-kerning: none;">We don’t just take cases—we take care of people. Whether you’re facing a criminal accusation, a family crisis, or an immigration challenge, we’re here to fight for you across New York City and beyond.</span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 12.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; -webkit-text-stroke: #000000; min-height: 13.8px;"><br></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 12.0px 0.0px; font: 19.0px 'Times New Roman'; -webkit-text-stroke: #000000;" id="isPasted"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-size: 19.00px; font-kerning: none;">Visit us at 3097 Steinway St, Suite 301A, Astoria, NY 11103</span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 12.0px 0.0px; font: 19.0px 'Times New Roman'; color: #0000ee; -webkit-text-stroke: #0000ee;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-size: 19.00px; font-kerning: none; color: #000000; -webkit-text-stroke: 0px #000000;"><a href="https://www.svlawpartners.com/"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-size: 19.00px; text-decoration: underline ; font-kerning: none; -webkit-text-stroke: 0px #0000ee;">www.svlawpartners.com</span></a></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 12.0px 0.0px; font: 19.0px 'Times New Roman'; -webkit-text-stroke: #000000;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-size: 19.00px; font-kerning: none;"> Call: (347) 967-6141</span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 12.0px 0.0px; font: 19.0px 'Times New Roman'; -webkit-text-stroke: #000000;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-size: 19.00px; font-kerning: none;"> Open 24/7</span></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 12.0px 0.0px; font: 20.0px 'Times New Roman'; -webkit-text-stroke: #000000;"><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>]]></content:encoded>
  97.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/videos/vasiliou-law-expands-across-nyc-long-island-criminal-family-immigration-attorneys</link>
  98.      <pubDate>Sat, 31 May 2025 02:57:44 -1100</pubDate>
  99.      <category>General</category>
  100.    </item>
  101.    <item>
  102.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/videos/we-are-deldar-legal</guid>
  103.      <title><![CDATA[We Are Deldar Legal]]></title>
  104.      <description/>
  105.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[]]></content:encoded>
  106.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/videos/we-are-deldar-legal</link>
  107.      <pubDate>Mon, 07 Apr 2025 10:57:22 -1100</pubDate>
  108.      <category>General</category>
  109.    </item>
  110.    <item>
  111.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/videos/houston-sex-crimes-lawyer-tad-nelson</guid>
  112.      <title><![CDATA[Houston Sex Crimes Lawyer, Tad Nelson]]></title>
  113.      <description> Understanding Sex Crime Charges in Texas: What You Need to Know  At Tad Nelson &amp; Associates, we handle the full range of sex crime cases across Houston, Galveston, and the surrounding counties. In this video, I walk viewers through the different...</description>
  114.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Understanding Sex Crime Charges in Texas: What You Need to Know</strong></p><p>At <strong>Tad Nelson & Associates</strong>, we handle the full range of sex crime cases across Houston, Galveston, and the surrounding counties. In this video, I walk viewers through the different categories of sex crimes under Texas law—because most people have no idea just how broad and serious these charges can be.</p><p>First thing to know: the term “rape” isn’t even in the Texas Penal Code. What most people think of as “rape” gets charged under statutes like <em>sexual assault</em> or <em>aggravated sexual assault</em>. </p><p><strong>Texas law breaks these offenses into three general categories:</strong></p><p>1. <strong>Adult-on-Child Offenses</strong></p><p>These are the most serious—and the most common type we see. Charges like:</p><ul><li><strong>Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child</strong></li><li><strong>Sexual Assault of a Child</strong></li><li><strong>Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Young Child</strong></li><li> (This applies when the same child is allegedly assaulted three or more times over 30 days. The penalty? 25 years to life. No parole.)</li></ul><p>These cases are devastating—not just because of the punishment, but because a false accusation alone can ruin someone’s life. Even if we win, the accusation leaves a permanent mark. That’s why, if you’re falsely accused, you need to start building your defense immediately.</p><p>2. <strong>Adult-on-Adult Offenses</strong></p><p>While less common, we do see these cases, often in the form of so-called <em>date rape</em> allegations. These may involve accusations related to alcohol or drugs like Rohypnol or GHB. These are serious cases, but they’re more often based on gray areas involving consent, rather than overt violence.</p><p>3. <strong>Possession of Child Pornography</strong></p><p>This category has exploded over the years—especially as more people assume their private internet activity is protected. It’s not. Internet service providers, like Xfinity, monitor illegal downloads and report suspected child porn to law enforcement. From there, investigators quietly build a case before knocking on your door with a search warrant. Once they seize your devices, the case is in full motion.</p><p>We also handle a disturbing trend involving <strong>juveniles</strong>. Teenagers—sometimes as young as 14 or 15—are being charged with felony child porn offenses for sharing explicit images of each other. Two 16-year-olds texting photos back and forth? Technically, that’s the same as possessing and distributing child pornography under Texas law. Most of these kids don’t even realize they’re committing a crime until it’s too late.</p><p>We're frequently in <strong>juvenile court in Texas City</strong> defending these types of cases, trying to keep young lives from being permanently damaged by felony records.</p><p>Get Help Before Things Spiral</p><p>If you or your child is facing any type of sex crime allegation, <strong>don’t wait</strong>. These cases move fast. And once the system gets involved—CPS, law enforcement, digital forensics—it’s hard to undo the damage. You need an experienced criminal defense team that understands the science, the law, and the psychology of these cases.</p><p><strong>Call us today at (713) 802-1631</strong></p><p>Contact us for a confidential consultation</p><p>We represent clients throughout <strong>Harris County</strong>, <strong>Galveston County</strong>, <strong>Brazoria County</strong>, and across the Greater Houston region. </p><p><br></p>]]></content:encoded>
  115.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/videos/houston-sex-crimes-lawyer-tad-nelson</link>
  116.      <pubDate>Sun, 30 Mar 2025 10:23:17 -1100</pubDate>
  117.      <category>Criminal Law</category>
  118.    </item>
  119.    <item>
  120.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/videos/houston-dwi-lawyer-for-child-passenger-cases-tad-nelson</guid>
  121.      <title><![CDATA[Houston DWI Lawyer for Child Passenger Cases, Tad Nelson]]></title>
  122.      <description>    What Happens When You're Charged With DWI While a Child Is in the Car?  If you’ve been charged with DWI with a child passenger in Texas, you’re now facing a felony. That means real prison time, a criminal record, and the kind of lifelong con...</description>
  123.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><br></p><p><strong>What Happens When You're Charged With DWI While a Child Is in the Car?</strong></p><p>If you’ve been charged with DWI with a child passenger in Texas, you’re now facing a felony. That means real prison time, a criminal record, and the kind of lifelong consequences that can derail your career, your rights, and your family.</p><p>In this video, <a href="https://thenelsonfirm.com/firm-overview/specialized-training/board-certified-dwi-lawyer/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Board Certified® Houston criminal defense lawyer Tad Nelson</a> explains how our firm approaches these sensitive, high-risk cases. A DWI with a child passenger—defined as having a passenger under 15 years old in the vehicle while driving intoxicated—is classified as a <strong>third-degree felony</strong> under Texas law. It carries a sentence of 2 to 10 years in prison and a permanent felony conviction if not properly handled.</p><p>But not every case ends in a conviction.</p><p>We defend these cases just like we would any other DWI:</p><p> ▶ Was there legal probable cause for the traffic stop?</p><p> ▶ Did the officer properly conduct field sobriety tests?</p><p> ▶ Are the breath or blood tests scientifically reliable?</p><p> ▶ Can the prosecution prove intoxication beyond a reasonable doubt?</p><p>We attack the evidence from every angle—police reports, video footage, lab protocols, expert testimony. If there’s a flaw, we’ll find it and use it. If the case can’t be beaten outright, we negotiate hard to reduce it. A felony on your record can shut doors. A reduction to a misdemeanor can save your future.</p><p><strong>These aren’t easy cases. But we handle them every week. And we don’t back down.</strong></p><p>? Serving clients in Houston, Galveston, and across Southeast Texas</p><p> ? Call now: <strong>713-802-1631</strong></p><p> ? Contact us today for a confidential consultation: <a href="https://thenelsonfirm.com/contact/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://thenelsonfirm.com/contact/</a></p><p><br></p>]]></content:encoded>
  124.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/videos/houston-dwi-lawyer-for-child-passenger-cases-tad-nelson</link>
  125.      <pubDate>Sun, 30 Mar 2025 10:20:31 -1100</pubDate>
  126.      <category>Criminal Law</category>
  127.    </item>
  128.    <item>
  129.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/videos/evidence-from-the-wayback-machine-in-federal-court-proceedings-australia</guid>
  130.      <title><![CDATA[Evidence from the wayback machine in Federal Court proceedings - Australia]]></title>
  131.      <description> The utility of evidence relating to the existence of websites on the internet and their contents sourced from the Wayback Machine is increasingly being considered by Australian Courts.   The question is whether or not the Courts will accept reports ...</description>
  132.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="color: rgb(19, 19, 19) font-family: Roboto, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap; background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.05) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;" id="isPasted">The utility of evidence relating to the existence of websites on the internet and their contents sourced from the Wayback Machine is increasingly being considered by Australian Courts.   The question is whether or not the Courts will accept reports from the Wayback Machine in practice and if so what will they allow?</span></p>]]></content:encoded>
  133.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/videos/evidence-from-the-wayback-machine-in-federal-court-proceedings-australia</link>
  134.      <pubDate>Wed, 07 Aug 2024 13:54:30 -1100</pubDate>
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  137.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/videos/covid-19-no-excuse-for-delay-in-the-federal-court</guid>
  138.      <title><![CDATA[Covid 19 no excuse for delay in the Federal Court]]></title>
  139.      <description> In the current pandemic parties to legal proceedings may be tempted to apply for an adjournment or further time, citing COVID-19 as the reason for the delay.  Certainly the Federal Court of Australia has been quick to respond to the pandemic by chan...</description>
  140.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="color: rgb(19, 19, 19) font-family: Roboto, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap; background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.05) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;" id="isPasted">In the current pandemic parties to legal proceedings may be tempted to apply for an adjournment or further time, citing COVID-19 as the reason for the delay.  Certainly the Federal Court of Australia has been quick to respond to the pandemic by changing its procedures and has even conducted entire trials using Microsoft Teams.  This video discusses the circumstances where COVID-19 has been used as justification for a delay in proceeding and the Court’s view on granting stays for this reason.</span></p>]]></content:encoded>
  141.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/videos/covid-19-no-excuse-for-delay-in-the-federal-court</link>
  142.      <pubDate>Wed, 07 Aug 2024 13:53:51 -1100</pubDate>
  143.    </item>
  144.    <item>
  145.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/videos/deal-fatigue-is-a-thing-to-prepare-for-in-commercial-transactions</guid>
  146.      <title><![CDATA[Deal fatigue is a thing to prepare for in commercial transactions]]></title>
  147.      <description> Things to try to avoid and prepare for when doing business deals ...</description>
  148.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="color: rgb(19, 19, 19) font-family: Roboto, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap; background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.05) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;" id="isPasted">Things to try to avoid and prepare for when doing business deals</span></p>]]></content:encoded>
  149.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/videos/deal-fatigue-is-a-thing-to-prepare-for-in-commercial-transactions</link>
  150.      <pubDate>Wed, 07 Aug 2024 13:53:16 -1100</pubDate>
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  153.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/videos/early-warning-signs-of-shareholder-oppression</guid>
  154.      <title><![CDATA[Early warning signs of shareholder oppression]]></title>
  155.      <description> Common observations made about the conduct and behaviour of those involved in shareholder oppression ...</description>
  156.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="color: rgb(19, 19, 19) font-family: Roboto, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap; background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.05) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;" id="isPasted">Common observations made about the conduct and behaviour of those involved in shareholder oppression</span></p>]]></content:encoded>
  157.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/videos/early-warning-signs-of-shareholder-oppression</link>
  158.      <pubDate>Wed, 07 Aug 2024 13:52:29 -1100</pubDate>
  159.    </item>
  160.    <item>
  161.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/videos/my-lemon-rights</guid>
  162.      <title><![CDATA[My Lemon Rights]]></title>
  163.      <description> California Lemon Law Attorney Attorney David Barry 11845 W Olympic Blvd Suite 1270 Los Angeles, California 90064 Call Us: 877-536-6603 Text Us: 424-321-5221 Email Us: info@mylemonrights.com ...</description>
  164.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="color: rgb(19, 19, 19) font-family: Roboto, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap; background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.05) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial; display: inline !important; float: none;" id="isPasted">California Lemon Law Attorney Attorney David Barry 11845 W Olympic Blvd Suite 1270 Los Angeles, California 90064 Call Us: 877-536-6603 Text Us: 424-321-5221 Email Us: info@mylemonrights.com</span></p>]]></content:encoded>
  165.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/videos/my-lemon-rights</link>
  166.      <pubDate>Tue, 30 Jul 2024 04:12:23 -1100</pubDate>
  167.      <category>General</category>
  168.    </item>
  169.    <item>
  170.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/videos/michigan-malpractice-law-firm</guid>
  171.      <title><![CDATA[Michigan Malpractice Law Firm]]></title>
  172.      <description> Hoffer &amp; Sheremet is a boutique medical and legal malpractice law firm in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Attorneys Stephanie Hoffer and Aubri Sheremet exclusively practice malpractice law. This allows us to be experts and leaders in malpractice law. In...</description>
  173.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://hoffersheremet.com/" title="" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Hoffer & Sheremet</a> is a boutique medical and legal malpractice law firm in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Attorneys <a href="https://hoffersheremet.com/team/stephanie-c-hoffer/" title="" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Stephanie Hoffer</a> and <a href="https://hoffersheremet.com/team/aubri-n-sheremet/" title="" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Aubri Sheremet</a> exclusively practice malpractice law. This allows us to be experts and leaders in malpractice law.</p><p>In the <a href="https://hoffersheremet.com/medical-malpractice/" title="" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">medical malpractice</a> realm, the H/S Law Team are experts in the law and the medicine. We accept cases where there has been a death or serious injury as a result of negligence by a doctor, nurse, physician assistant, nurse practitioner, hospital, or other healthcare provider. Here are some of the types of cases we handle:</p><table style="width: 100%;" class="froala-table"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 50.0000%;"><ul><li id="isPasted"><a>Cerebral palsy</a></li><li id="isPasted"><a>Erb's palsy</a></li><li id="isPasted"><a>Newborn death</a></li><li id="isPasted"><a>Anesthesia errors</a></li><li id="isPasted"><a href="https://hoffersheremet.com/medical-malpractice/brain-injury/" title="" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Brain injury</a></li><li id="isPasted"><a href="https://hoffersheremet.com/medical-malpractice/nursing-negligence/" title="" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Nursing negligence</a></li><li id="isPasted"><a href="https://hoffersheremet.com/medical-malpractice/ureter-and-bladder-injuries/" title="" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ureter and bladder injuries</a></li><li id="isPasted"><a href="https://hoffersheremet.com/medical-malpractice/stroke/" title="" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Stroke</a></li><li id="isPasted"><a href="https://hoffersheremet.com/medical-malpractice/bowel-injuries/" title="" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bowel injury</a></li><li id="isPasted"><a href="https://hoffersheremet.com/medical-malpractice/patient-falls/" title="" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Patient falls</a></li><li id="isPasted">Pediatric malpractice</li><li id="isPasted">Shoulder dystocia</li><li id="isPasted">Umbilical cord compression</li></ul><br></td><td style="width: 50.0000%;"><ul><li id="isPasted"><a>Hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy</a></li><li id="isPasted"><a>Improper fetal monitoring / fetal distress</a></li><li id="isPasted"><a>Pregnancy loss</a></li><li id="isPasted"><a href="https://hoffersheremet.com/medical-malpractice/dvt-pe/" title="" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">DVT and PE</a></li><li id="isPasted"><a href="https://hoffersheremet.com/medical-malpractice/emergency-room-errors-2/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Emergency room errors</a></li><li id="isPasted"><a href="https://hoffersheremet.com/medical-malpractice/sepsis/" title="" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Sepsis</a></li><li id="isPasted"><a href="https://hoffersheremet.com/medical-malpractice/surgical-errors/" title="" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Surgical errors</a></li><li id="isPasted"><a href="https://hoffersheremet.com/medical-malpractice/bed-sores-and-other-pressure-ulcers/" title="" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bed sores and pressure ulcers</a></li><li id="isPasted"><a href="https://hoffersheremet.com/wrongful-death/" title="" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Wrongful Death</a></li><li id="isPasted"><a href="https://hoffersheremet.com/birth-injury/" title="" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Birth Trauma</a></li><li id="isPasted">Labor and delivery negligence</li><li id="isPasted">Hypoxia</li><li id="isPasted">Failure to perform a C-section</li></ul><br></td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50.0000%;"><br></td><td style="width: 50.0000%;"><br></td></tr></tbody></table><p>We accept birth injury / birth trauma cases in the following states: Alabama, Florida, Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont.</p><p>In addition to medical malpractice, wrongful death, and birth injury cases, we handle <a href="https://hoffersheremet.com/legal-malpractice/" title="" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">legal malpractice</a> cases arising from personal injury, commercial transactions, or business litigation where the client has suffered a significant financial loss because of a lawyer's negligence.</p><p>As a small, boutique firm, we only accept a small number of cases each year. This allows us to provide exceptional client service and achieve exceptional results. We strive to keep our clients continually up to date. We take as much time as necessary to explain the law and our strategy to our clients. And we encourage our clients to be as involved in their case as they want to be.</p><p>Keeping our focus narrow also means that we work with the same courts, opposing counsel, hospitals, and insurance companies routinely. This provides a significant benefit for our clients because the litigation process us usually streamlined and much easier than it is for lawyers that merely dabble in malpractice law.</p><p>Hoffer & Sheremet abides by its client-centered philosophy. Our decisions are always guided by what is in our clients' best interests.</p><p>If you would like to to review your medical malpractice, wrongful death, birth injury or legal malpractice case, please call us for a free case review: <a href="tel:16162780888" title="" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">616.278.0888</a> or email us at <a href="mailto:info@hoffersheremet.com">info@hoffersheremet.com</a>. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>]]></content:encoded>
  174.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/videos/michigan-malpractice-law-firm</link>
  175.      <pubDate>Tue, 02 May 2023 02:47:01 -1100</pubDate>
  176.      <category>Medical Malpractice</category>
  177.    </item>
  178.    <item>
  179.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/blog/what-is-a-deposition-in-family-court-and-how-to-survive-one</guid>
  180.      <title><![CDATA[What is a Deposition in Family Court? (And How To Survive One!)]]></title>
  181.      <description>A deposition in family court is sworn out-of-court testimony given by a witness in response to oral questioning. It is used to gather information as part of the discovery process and may be used at trial under certain circumstances. The witness givin...</description>
  182.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr">A deposition in family court is sworn out-of-court testimony given by a witness in response to oral questioning. It is used to gather information as part of the discovery process and may be used at trial under certain circumstances. The witness giving the deposition is called the deponent.</p><p dir="ltr">I recently went through a contentious divorce case that involved several depositions. As someone who had never stepped foot in a courtroom, the legal process was confusing and intimidating. This article provides a first-hand look at what a deposition in family court entails, from the initial notice to the final review of the transcript.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Receiving the Deposition Notice</span></h2><p dir="ltr">The first step was receiving notice that my soon-to-be ex-husband's attorney wanted to take my deposition. The deposition notice stated the scheduled date, time, and location, as well as the name of the court reporter. It also included an extensive list of requested documents I needed to bring, including financial statements, tax returns, bank records, and communication related to the divorce proceedings.</p><p dir="ltr">As I gathered everything together, I met with my attorney to prepare. She explained that the opposing counsel would be asking me questions under oath about our assets, debts, income, expenses, and any relevant aspects of our marriage and finances. I was extremely nervous about testifying, but my attorney assured me that staying calm and providing truthful answers was the best approach.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Arriving at the Deposition</span></h2><p dir="ltr">On the scheduled date, I arrived early at the office building conference room where the deposition would take place. Present were the opposing counsel, the court reporter, my attorney, and a videographer to record the proceedings.</p><p dir="ltr">After being sworn in, the questioning began. Most questions were straightforward regarding our financial history, but some questions about alleged infidelity felt aimed to fluster me. When this happened, my attorney would calmly state her objection for the record. Her guidance kept me focused on providing clear and concise responses.</p><p dir="ltr">We took two brief breaks during the nearly five hour deposition. By the end, the emotional and mental exhaustion was worse than the tedious financial questions. However, I handled myself well thanks to thorough preparation with my attorney.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Reviewing the Deposition Transcript</span></h2><p dir="ltr">A few weeks later, I received a copy of the deposition transcript. This written record would become an official part of the case, so it was critical to review it for accuracy. Most of my answers were verbatim, but I noticed a few minor clerical errors. My attorney advised me to complete an errata sheet to indicate these mistakes. This document stated the original text, the corrected text, and the reason for each change.</p><p dir="ltr">After signing the errata sheet, the court reporter included it within the final certified deposition transcript. This verified record could now potentially be used for motions, at trial, or to impeach any conflicting future testimony I might provide.</p><p dir="ltr">While intimidating at first, being as prepared as possible helped me successfully navigate the deposition process. I gained firsthand experience with how depositions can reveal key details in family court cases.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Real World Examples</span></h2><p dir="ltr">To provide further insight into depositions in family court, here are some additional real world examples:</p><h4 dir="ltr">Infidelity Case Deposition</h4><p dir="ltr">Michelle was convinced her husband Jim was having an affair with a coworker. She filed for divorce on grounds of adultery based on credit card receipts for expensive jewelry and romantic trips she found in his briefcase.</p><p dir="ltr">During Michelle's deposition, Jim's attorney asked numerous questions about whether Michelle had hired a private investigator or placed GPS trackers on Jim's car to obtain the financial evidence. Michelle admitted that she logged into Jim's email and copied his credit card statements to find proof of the purchases.</p><p dir="ltr">Jim later gave a deposition detailing emotional distance from Michelle in their marriage. He did not deny making the gifts and trips but explained they were for work colleagues, not affairs. Michelle's unauthorized access to Jim's private financial statements was also used to challenge her credibility.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Child Support Case Deposition</h4><p dir="ltr">Amanda filed for child support from her ex-husband Mark after finding out he received a job promotion and pay raise. Mark had been failing to pay his current child support, so Amanda hoped the deposition would reveal his true higher income to justify increased support.</p><p dir="ltr">In Mark's deposition, he attempted to downplay his promotion and stated his pay raise was insignificant. However, through detailed questions about Mark's employment contracts and pay stubs, Amanda's attorney revealed Mark's salary had nearly doubled.</p><p dir="ltr">Mark reluctantly admitted he also received an annual bonus of $15,000 that he had left off his original financial affidavit to the court. The deposition testimony exposed key evidence for Amanda's attorney to argue for increased child support based on Mark's true current income.</p><h2 id="isPasted"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Surviving Your Deposition</span></h2><p>Going through a deposition can be a nerve-wracking and emotionally draining experience. Here are some practical tips to help you tackle your deposition while maintaining composure:</p><h4>Prepare Thoroughly</h4><p>Review relevant documents, emails, financial records and your own previous statements on the case. Refresh your memory on important events, conversations, and timelines. Anticipate likely questions and practice answers that are truthful, clear and concise.</p><h4>Listen Carefully</h4><p>Make sure you fully understand each question before answering. It's okay to ask for clarification if a question is confusing or compound. Avoid volunteering additional information beyond what is asked.</p><h4>Answer Honestly</h4><p>Simply tell the truth - that is your primary obligation. If you don't recall something, say so. Speculating or exaggerating is not helpful. Trust that your attorney will follow up on important issues.</p><h4>Stay Calm</h4><p>Pausing to take a breath after a difficult question is fine. If emotions run high, ask for a short break to regain composure. Do not argue with the questioning attorney.</p><h4>Use Careful Phrasing</h4><p>Avoid casual expressions or exaggerations as they may not reflect well on a written transcript. Use precise language to convey exactly what you mean.</p><h4>Review Your Testimony</h4><p>Carefully read your deposition transcript once available. Verify its accuracy or provide an errata sheet with corrections as needed after consulting your attorney.Staying focused on truthful, thoughtful responses will help you successfully navigate your deposition. Trust your attorney to make appropriate objections and protect your interests when necessary. With preparation and resilience, you can get through this legal process.</p><h3 dir="ltr">Frequently Asked Questions</h3><h4 dir="ltr">What is the difference between a deposition and courtroom testimony?</h4><p dir="ltr">A deposition takes place out of court with no judge present. The witness answers questions under oath just like courtroom testimony, but the rules of evidence are relaxed. Depositions allow the attorneys to ask broader questions to discover information that may not be admissible at trial.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Who is allowed to attend a deposition?</h4><p dir="ltr">Typically the only people present are the deponent, attorneys for all parties, a court reporter to record the testimony, and sometimes a videographer. Expert consultants or witnesses may attend with prior approval. Observers or family are not allowed without consent from both attorneys.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Can I refuse to answer deposition questions?</h4><p dir="ltr">You must answer all questions, except those related to privileged confidential communications with your attorney. You can object to irrelevant, ambiguous, or argumentative questions. However, you will still have to answer questions related to discoverable information, even if it could be incriminating.</p><h4 dir="ltr">How should I prepare for a deposition?</h4><p dir="ltr">Thorough preparation with your attorney is vital. Review your records and refresh your recollection of important facts. Anticipate likely areas of questioning and formulate clear responses. Understand objections your attorney may make and let them handle those. Do not argue during the deposition - just provide truthful answers.</p><h4 dir="ltr">What happens if I lie or omit facts during a deposition?</h4><p dir="ltr">Providing false testimony under oath could constitute perjury. It can also badly damage your credibility compared to previous statements you've made. Opposing counsel could use deceptive answers against you in motions or at trial. Honesty is always the best policy during a deposition.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Can I make changes to my deposition transcript?</h4><p dir="ltr">Yes - after reviewing your transcript, you can provide an errata sheet to indicate corrections. Reasons include transcription errors, clarifying unintentionally unclear responses, or correcting innocent mistakes. You cannot make changes that contradict your testimony or alter the substance of what you stated.</p><h4 dir="ltr">What if I'm too nervous to testify during my deposition?</h4><p dir="ltr">It's natural to feel anxious about having your testimony taken under oath. Let your lawyer know ahead of time if you need a break to collect yourself. Do not guess or speculate - if you're unsure or don't remember, just say so. Stay calm and focused on being truthful above all else during the deposition.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Can deposition transcripts be used in court as evidence?</h4><p dir="ltr">All or portions may be submitted to the court as evidence in motions or at trial. Transcripts can also be used to point out contradictions if your court testimony differs from deposition responses. Portions may be read aloud to refresh your recollection while you are testifying during a trial.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Is a deposition the only way for parties to obtain discovery?</h4><p dir="ltr">No - the discovery process also includes written interrogatories, document requests, requests for admission, subpoenas for records, and independent medical exams. Depositions are useful for obtaining detailed question and answer testimony from parties and witnesses.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Who pays for deposition costs like transcripts or videography?</h4><p dir="ltr">The party that requests and schedules the deposition typically pays associated court reporter fees and video costs. However, the court may eventually order one party to reimburse the other party's deposition expenses as part of the final cost judgment.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Can I refuse to produce requested documents during discovery?</h4><p dir="ltr">If you receive a request to produce documents relevant to the disputed issues, you are obligated to turn those records over or face court sanctions. This includes bank statements, phone records, receipts, emails, tax returns, and other financial or communication documents related to the case.</p><h4 dir="ltr">What are common grounds for objections during depositions?</h4><p dir="ltr">Objections may include irrelevant or improper questions, ambiguous or misleading questions, argumentative questions, compound questions, questions that assume facts not in evidence, or questions that call for privileged information. However, if the question is valid under the rules of discovery, you still must answer.</p><h4 dir="ltr">What happens at the end of a deposition?</h4><p dir="ltr">The court reporter will go off the record, and your attorney can clarify any final points. You will be asked to verify the transcript and sign an oath confirming that your testimony was truthful. An unsigned deposition transcript cannot be used as evidence in court.</p><p dir="ltr"><em>This article relates general background information about the deposition process in family court cases. The real world examples provided are fictionalized for illustrative purposes and do not depict actual people or events. This article should not be construed as formal legal advice regarding your specific case. Always consult with an attorney about your particular situation and local court rules.</em></p>]]></content:encoded>
  183.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/blog/what-is-a-deposition-in-family-court-and-how-to-survive-one</link>
  184.      <pubDate>Wed, 24 Jan 2024 11:03:00 -1100</pubDate>
  185.    </item>
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  187.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/blog/what-happens-to-divorce-settlement-after-death-you-might-be-surprised</guid>
  188.      <title><![CDATA[What Happens to Divorce Settlement After Death? (You Might Be Surprised!)]]></title>
  189.      <description>The effect of death during divorce proceedings on a settlement depends on the specific circumstances. Some key factors:   If one spouse dies before the divorce decree is finalized, the divorce case ends and the marriage is still legally intact. The s...</description>
  190.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr">The effect of death during divorce proceedings on a settlement depends on the specific circumstances. Some key factors:</p><ul><li><p>If one spouse dies before the divorce decree is finalized, the divorce case ends and the marriage is still legally intact. The surviving spouse inherits under state laws and/or the will. Any temporary support orders also end.</p></li><li><p>However, assets previously agreed upon in a settlement may still transfer as intended. And if no settlement was reached, the surviving spouse typically has a claim to marital property under inheritance laws.</p></li><li><p>There is some legal debate on whether a surviving spouse can still pursue financial claims related to the unfinished divorce after the other spouse dies. At least one judge has argued they should be able to, but current law often prevents this.</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr">So in summary - death usually nullifies divorce proceedings and reverts inheritance to state laws and/or the will. But assets divided in an existing settlement may still transfer, and there are limited cases where a financial claim could proceed against the deceased's estate. The specifics depend on each couple's situation.</p><p dir="ltr">When my ex-husband passed away shortly after our divorce was finalized, I was left wondering - what happens to our divorce settlement and all the financial and custody agreements we had painstakingly negotiated over the past two years? Many of my friends and family asked the same question, unsure if his death invalidated our binding contracts.</p><p dir="ltr">As I soon learned, a divorce settlement, also known as a marital settlement agreement, is a legally binding contract that outlines how marital assets and debts will be divided, whether one spouse will pay alimony (spousal support) to the other, and custody arrangements regarding any minor children. This binding agreement survives the death of one or both spouses and remains valid and enforceable.</p><p dir="ltr">My attorney explained that under the equitable distribution laws of my state, all of the property division and spousal support provisions outlined in my divorce decree and settlement would remain intact. The only exception was my ex-husband's obligation to pay child support, which would end upon his death. However, the custody arrangement designating me as the primary residential parent with sole decision-making authority over our children's education and healthcare needs would continue.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">What Happens to Assets and Debts After a Former Spouse Dies</span></h2><p dir="ltr">When drafting divorce agreements, spouses must carefully divide and distribute all marital property and debts acquired during the marriage. This includes bank accounts, investments, real estate, vehicles, credit card balances, mortgages, and so forth.</p><p dir="ltr">My ex-husband and I had a $250,000 home with a $100,000 mortgage, two vehicles each worth $20,000, $30,000 in a joint investment account, $5,000 in credit card debt, and two retirement accounts.</p><p dir="ltr">As per our settlement, I received the house and one vehicle while my ex-husband kept his vehicle and the investment account assets. We split the retirement accounts 60/40 in my favor to offset over $100,000 in spousal support I gave up during negotiations. We each took responsibility for paying off our respective credit cards.</p><p dir="ltr">After his sudden passing, I was worried the court might force the sale of our home or liquidate other assets intended for me. Thankfully, this was not the case. As my lawyer explained, the divorce decree clearly laid out our intended property distribution, so those terms remained in effect.</p><p dir="ltr">I retained full ownership of the house, vehicle, and larger share of retirement assets while my ex-husband's estate maintained his vehicle and investment account. Our credit card debt remained attached to each original cardholder as well. No changes were required.</p><p dir="ltr">However, had the divorce decree failed to specifically allocate certain property, those assets may have passed to my ex-husband's heirs according to intestacy laws or the instructions in his will. For this reason, it is critical divorce settlements clearly identify and distribute all marital assets and debts to avoid later complications.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">What About Spousal Support and Child Support Obligations?</span></h2><p dir="ltr">Along with dividing assets, many divorce decrees require one spouse to pay court-ordered spousal support or alimony as a means of financial support. My agreement outlined $2,000 per month in non-modifiable spousal support for a period of four years. This could not be changed even upon death or remarriage.</p><p dir="ltr">Additionally, as we had two minor children together, my ex-husband was ordered to pay $1,500 per month in child support until each child turned 18. He was also responsible for keeping them covered under his robust employer-sponsored health insurance plan.</p><p dir="ltr">When my ex-husband suddenly passed away, I was concerned about losing not only his income but also the children's health insurance. Thankfully, my lawyer eased my worries - the spousal support provision remained enforceable against my ex-husband's estate. His executor had to ensure those monthly payments continued for the duration of the four-year term.</p><p dir="ltr">The child support obligations, however, terminated immediately upon his death. But when one parent dies, the children may be eligible for Social Security dependent benefits, retirement benefits, or private pension payments to help replace the lost child support income. In my case, my kids qualified for Social Security payments that supplemented my income enough to get by. They also could enroll in my employer's health insurance after a qualifying event.</p><p dir="ltr">Having these safety nets provided some comfort during an incredibly difficult time for me and my children. Knowing the legally binding divorce settlement protected our financial future was one less thing to worry about.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Custody Arrangements and Estate Planning Considerations</span></h2><p dir="ltr">Along with financial provisions, divorce settlements outline child custody arrangements and decision-making authority regarding legal guardianship, healthcare, education, religion, and more. This establishes who the primary residential parent will be and sets visitation schedules for the non-custodial parent.</p><p dir="ltr">My ex-husband and I had agreed to joint legal custody with me as the primary residential parent. He had visitation every other weekend. We also agreed that I would control all major decisions regarding the children's healthcare, education, and extracurricular activities.</p><p dir="ltr">After his shocking death, I worried how losing their father would impact my children emotionally. I also wondered if his family could challenge our agreed-upon custody terms.</p><p dir="ltr">Thankfully, my lawyer assured me that our divorce decree clearly established me as the sole legal guardian and primary decision maker. My ex-husband's parents had no grounds to contest custody as our binding agreements remained valid.</p><p dir="ltr">However, had our divorce settlement failed to address guardianship, his parents could have petitioned for visitation rights or even custody since I was not their biological mother. For blended families, having clear custody arrangements outlined in your divorce papers provides critical protection in the event of unexpected death or disability.</p><p dir="ltr">Beyond custody concerns, my lawyer also raised estate planning considerations I had not thought of before. She reminded me to update my own will to ensure my children's financial security and prevent disputes over guardianship should something happen to me. She also suggested setting up trusts to manage assets the children inherited from their dad. Taking these steps provided me tremendous peace of mind during such a difficult transition for my family.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Can a Divorce Settlement Be Contested After Death?</span></h2><p dir="ltr">In most cases, a finalized divorce settlement that clearly outlines asset distribution, financial support, custody arrangements, and other terms will withstand contest even after one spouse dies. This legally binding contract provides certainty for all parties involved.</p><p dir="ltr">However, there are certain situations where surviving spouses or other beneficiaries may challenge provisions in the divorce decree after a death occurs:</p><ul><li><p>If the settlement was never formalized or finalized before death</p></li><li><p>If one spouse failed to disclose all assets or debts during negotiations</p></li><li><p>If there is evidence of fraud, duress, or coercion in reaching the agreement</p></li><li><p>If the settlement violates state laws regarding property division or inheritance rights</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr">My own divorce thankfully had none of these complications. My ex-husband and I had both agreed to the settlement terms after extensive disclosure of assets, mediation, and negotiations. Our lawyers filed all the right paperwork for a formal divorce decree that the judge signed. Only after the cooling-off period passed did my ex unexpectedly suffer a fatal heart attack.</p><p dir="ltr">Since our divorce was finalized, legally binding, and compliant with state laws, his mother had no grounds to contest any portion of our settlement after he died. I had complete peace of mind knowing our agreement would be honored and enforced.</p><p dir="ltr">Still, these scenarios reinforce the importance of full financial disclosure and due diligence when drafting divorce settlements. Failing to cross the t's and dot the i's can leave your financial future vulnerable even after the dissolution of marriage. Don't learn this lesson the hard way like some of my single friends unfortunately have!</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Can a Divorce Continue After Death?</span></h2><p dir="ltr">In the vast majority of cases, the death of one spouse ends divorce proceedings. Assets then pass to heirs either through wills or intestacy succession laws. However, there are a couple rare situations where a divorce may continue even after death:</p><h4 dir="ltr">Posthumous Divorce</h4><p dir="ltr">Also called a “ghost divorce”, some states allow pending divorce cases to proceed after one spouse dies for certain limited reasons, such as:</p><ul><li><p>Allowing a surviving spouse to retain certain death benefits instead of former in-laws</p></li><li><p>Settling legal questions regarding inheritance rights or asset distribution</p></li><li><p>Clarifying marital status for religious reasons or remarriage eligibility</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr">My friend Lily was in the final stages of her divorce when her soon-to-be ex-husband John unexpectedly died overseas. As his death was under suspicious circumstances, she needed to finalize divorce proceedings to prevent his parents from receiving life insurance payouts and other death benefits as next-of-kin. Thankfully, her state allowed posthumous divorce under these special circumstances. The judge issued a final decree, enabling her to retain all assets and insurance funds per her separation agreement.</p><p dir="ltr">While ghost divorces are rare, they illustrate the importance of consulting an attorney to understand your options before halting divorce proceedings due to death. There may be financial or legal reasons to obtain a final judgment of dissolution in certain cases.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Divorce Nullification</h4><p dir="ltr">In contrast to posthumous divorces, some surviving spouses may pursue divorce nullification after the death of their estranged spouse, especially if one party had regrets. By rendering the initial divorce judgment void, spouses become legally married at the time of death. This impacts inheritance rights and estate distribution unless a will or prenup dictates otherwise.</p><p dir="ltr">My friend Marie was blindsided when her terminally ill husband initiated divorce after decades of marriage. In his final months, she believes he was manipulated by troubled adult children who did not have her best interests in mind. By the time she learned of his divorce plans, it was too late. He died weeks later, leaving her without legal recourse...or so she thought.</p><p dir="ltr">Marie learned she could fight the divorce by filing a nullity action, essentially reversing the marital status change. In her state, a short-term marriage ending in death may qualify for nullification if sufficient evidence proves one spouse lacked mental capacity or acted under undue influence when petitioning for divorce. After months in court fighting her stepchildren, Marie won her case. The judge nullified the divorce, enabling her to inherit and challenge the questionable will her late husband had signed.</p><p dir="ltr">While nullification cases are extremely rare, Marie’s story demonstrates that options may exist even after death and divorce. Consult an attorney to understand your rights in seemingly hopeless cases. The law can offer creative solutions when you least expect it!</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Frequently Asked Questions</span><br><br></h2><h4 dir="ltr">What happens to the house and other property after divorce if one spouse dies?</h4><p dir="ltr">The divorce decree and settlement paperwork will specify who retains ownership and responsibility for assets like real estate, vehicles, investments, retirement accounts and so forth after dissolution of marriage. These binding agreements remain valid and enforceable even after death, so the court will not redistribute property unless the divorce order violated state laws.</p><p dir="ltr">For example, if you were awarded the marital home in the divorce settlement, you would retain full rights to the property even if your ex-spouse dies. Their estate would have no claim to an asset clearly allocated to you.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Do alimony payments continue after my ex dies?</h4><p dir="ltr">Spousal support obligations outlined in your divorce judgment typically survive death and remain binding on your former spouse’s estate. The executor must continue making court-ordered alimony payments for the duration stated in your settlement.</p><p dir="ltr">However, some decrees include provisions terminating spousal support upon death or remarriage. Consult your divorce paperwork or attorney to understand your state laws and specific settlement terms.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Does child support end when a divorced parent dies?</h4><p dir="ltr">Yes, the legal obligation to pay child support ends upon the death of the parent making payments. However, children may be eligible for Social Security benefits from the deceased parent or receive support from a trust or will. Consider updating your own estate plan to ensure your kids are financially protected.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Who gets custody of children after a parent dies?</h4><p dir="ltr">If clearly specified in the divorce decree, the designated surviving parent retains full legal and physical custody after their ex-spouse dies as well as decision-making authority for the children. This cannot be challenged unless proven unfit.</p><p dir="ltr">However, if custody arrangements were not formalized before death, the deceased parent’s family could potentially file for guardianship rights over the kids. To prevent disputes, finalize details in writing.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Can I challenge a divorce settlement after my spouse dies?</h4><p dir="ltr">It is possible to contest a divorce settlement after death in certain cases, such as fraud, coercion, lack of consent, or violations of state laws regarding inheritance rights or community property division. An experienced family law attorney can help analyze your options. But in most cases, finalized divorce judgments are binding.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Who inherits property when divorced spouses die without updated wills?</h4><p dir="ltr">If divorced spouses with assets die before updating their wills, inheritance rights become complicated. An existing will leaving property to an ex-spouse may be invalidated. Instead, assets could pass to children, parents or other relatives per state intestate succession laws. Updating estate plans after a divorce is critical.</p><h4 dir="ltr">What happens if a divorced spouse dies before paying property settlement?</h4><p dir="ltr">If your divorce decree awarded you cash or other assets as part of a property settlement but your ex dies before paying, you can make a claim against their estate for the unpaid amount. The executor must honor the binding divorce judgment by paying you directly from estate assets. An attorney can help secure money owed.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Is a surviving divorced spouse entitled to death benefits?</h4><p dir="ltr">The divorce judgment terminating marital status also severs eligibility for death benefits like Social Security survivor benefits, pensions, veteran benefits and so on in most states. However, a separated but still legally married spouse may qualify. State laws vary, so consult a legal professional about your unique situation.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Who is responsible for credit card debt after a divorced spouse dies?</h4><p dir="ltr">If a divorce decree assigns responsibility for joint credit card debt to one spouse, that obligation may continue to be binding even after their death. The cardholder’s estate typically retains liability for court-ordered debt payments unless specific exceptions are outlined in the settlement.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Can I remarry if my divorce isn’t finalized before my spouse dies?</h4><p dir="ltr">Remarriage laws vary by state if divorce proceedings are pending when a spouse dies. Some require a posthumous final divorce decree declaring you single before allowing remarriage. Other states recognize you as widowed once a certain separation period passes, enabling you to remarry. Consult an attorney about your options.</p><h4 dir="ltr">How can I update my estate plan after a divorce?</h4><p dir="ltr">After a divorce, it is essential to modify your will, trusts, beneficiary designations, powers of attorney, and other estate plans to reflect your new circumstances. Remove your ex-spouse, update guardian or executor appointments if needed, revise asset distribution, and finalize any outstanding divorce settlement obligations.</p><h4 dir="ltr">What happens if a spouse hides assets during divorce and dies?</h4><p dir="ltr">If you discover a deceased ex-spouse concealed assets not disclosed in divorce proceedings, you may be able to file a claim against their estate. An experienced probate litigation attorney can help recover your rightful marital property, especially if the settlement agreement contained fraud provisions.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Who has authority over a deceased person's digital assets?</h4><p dir="ltr">Online accounts and digital assets typically pass to a deceased user’s estate and designated digital heirs named in estate documents. However, state laws vary regarding rights to access or delete online data. Consult an attorney about your jurisdiction’s rules for authority over digital assets after death.</p><p dir="ltr"><em>The information provided in this article does not constitute legal advice and is provided for general informational purposes only. Laws and regulations regarding divorce settlements vary by jurisdiction. You should consult an attorney licensed in your state to understand your specific rights and obligations. Do not rely solely on the information in this article when making legal decisions.</em></p>]]></content:encoded>
  191.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/blog/what-happens-to-divorce-settlement-after-death-you-might-be-surprised</link>
  192.      <pubDate>Wed, 24 Jan 2024 10:06:00 -1100</pubDate>
  193.      <category>Family Law</category>
  194.    </item>
  195.    <item>
  196.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/blog/understanding-homemaker-divorce-rights-securing-your-future-after-separation</guid>
  197.      <title><![CDATA[Understanding Homemaker Divorce Rights: Securing Your Future After Separation]]></title>
  198.      <description>While divorce laws vary by state, homemakers generally have rights to an equitable share of marital property and assets built during the marriage. As the primary caregiver, you can also request physical custody of children and associated child suppor...</description>
  199.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr">While divorce laws vary by state, homemakers generally have rights to an equitable share of marital property and assets built during the marriage. As the primary caregiver, you can also request physical custody of children and associated child support. Requests for alimony should demonstrate how you sacrificed earning potential for domestic duties. Compiling thorough paperwork on finances, assets, debts, and expenses will aid negotiations.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Documenting Your Contributions</span></h2><p dir="ltr">Cindy, a stay-at-home mom of two kids, supported her husband’s medical career for 20 years. She managed their household while he earned a high 6-figure salary. As Cindy consults divorce lawyers, her contributions like raising children, running the household, arranging travel, and enabling her ex’s career advancement all position her to receive alimony and equitable property division.</p><p dir="ltr">Since Cindy wasn’t employed, she’ll document her homemaking contributions through detailed records of household management, budgets, assets, expenses, children’s schedules, and any associated lost career opportunities. These records will demonstrate the value provided and support the requested divorce terms.</p><div dir="ltr" align="left" id="isPasted"><table cellpadding="5"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 38.3652%;"><p>Homemaker Contributions</p></td><td style="width: 61.4855%;"><p>Records</p></td></tr><tr><td style="width: 38.3652%;"><p>Childcare</p></td><td style="width: 61.4855%;"><p>Details on caretaking, education, medical needs, activities</p></td></tr><tr><td style="width: 38.3652%;"><p>Household Management</p></td><td style="width: 61.4855%;"><p>Budgets, schedules, division of labor</p></td></tr><tr><td style="width: 38.3652%;"><p>Enabling Spouse's Career</p></td><td style="width: 61.4855%;"><p>Details on moving for jobs, travel, event planning</p></td></tr><tr><td style="width: 38.3652%;"><p>Lost Earning Capacity</p></td><td style="width: 61.4855%;"><p>Education, experience, sacrificed career goals</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div dir="ltr" align="left"><br><br></div><p dir="ltr">Compiling thorough documentation and tracking all homemaker contributions will strengthen your negotiating position.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Understanding Property Division Rights</span></h2><p dir="ltr">The length of a marriage and contributions made to acquire assets typically guide how property is divided during divorce proceedings. With Jeff and Amanda, married 12 years with a 10-year old son, Amanda had paused her career for 6 years after their child was born to manage their household full time.</p><p dir="ltr">As their marriage dissolves, Amanda is entitled to an equitable share of marital property like their house, retirement accounts, savings, and other joint assets either spouse acquired during the marriage. The court will likely split their property 50/50 given the length of their marriage and Amanda’s contributions as the primary caregiver.</p><p dir="ltr">Amanda will track all assets, debts, property, and expenses using a table like below. Thorough documentation becomes critical in seeking fair property division:</p><div dir="ltr" align="left"><table cellpadding="5" class="froala-table"><tbody><tr><td><p>Asset/Property</p></td><td><p>Description</p></td><td><p>Acquisition Date</p></td><td><p>Value</p></td></tr><tr><td><p>Marital Home</p></td><td><p>4 bedroom, 3 bath house</p></td><td><p>June 2018</p></td><td><p>$450k</p></td></tr><tr><td><p>Amanda's 401k</p></td><td><p>From marketing career</p></td><td><p>2002-2008</p></td><td><p>$130k</p></td></tr><tr><td><p>Jeff's 401k</p></td><td><p>From medical career</p></td><td><p>2013-present</p></td><td><p>$720k</p></td></tr><tr><td><p>Joint Savings</p></td><td><p>Savings built during marriage</p></td><td><br></td><td><p>$85k</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><p dir="ltr"><br>This documentation helps demonstrate facts like:</p><ul><li><p>Amanda contributed to building savings, assets, and other marital property</p></li><li><p>She requires an equitable share to maintain standard of living after divorce</p></li><li><p>Jeff acquired greater earnings and retirement savings during the marriage</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr">Compiling thorough documentation will enable one to seek fair property division.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Requesting Alimony or Spousal Support</span></h2><p dir="ltr">When there is discrepancy between spouses’ incomes post-divorce, the lower-earning spouse may request alimony, also called spousal support. The court determines eligibility based on one spouse’s financial dependence, domestic contributions, lost career opportunities, and the supporting spouse's ability to pay.</p><p dir="ltr">Look at Barbara and Ryan, married 19 years with 3 kids (16, 14, 10). Barbara left her career in education early on to raise their children while Ryan advanced his legal career. As Barbara consults divorce lawyers at age 45, she prepares to request alimony. She tracks her sacrifices - pausing her career for child rearing, enabling Ryan to achieve career success, lost wages, and lost retirement savings. As she’s been out of the workforce for years, the court will likely award Barbara longer term alimony until she can rebuild career prospects.</p><p dir="ltr">Her records help convey:</p><ul><li><p>Barbara dependent on Ryan’s $250k salary given minimal recent work history</p></li><li><p>She sacrificed her career trajectory for their family</p></li><li><p>Loss of earning capacity and retirement savings due to leaving workforce</p></li><li><p>Ryan has strong income to provide support</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr">Documenting these facets often helps secure a fair alimony arrangement during proceedings.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Child Support Considerations</span></h2><p dir="ltr">Over 12 million single parent households exist in America today. For divorcing parents, establishing child support and custody agreements is a top priority.</p><p dir="ltr">Look at Mackenzie and her ex-husband who are coordinating their divorce settlement for their 8-year old twins. As primary caregiver, Mackenzie has requested physical custody of their twins as well as associated child support to aid raising them post-divorce.</p><p dir="ltr">Given the age of their kids, Mackenzie felt continuing their school, activities, and neighborhood stability was paramount. Her ex will have regular visitation rights. They are determining appropriate child support levels based on state guidelines and his income.</p><p dir="ltr">Her lawyer guides Mackenzie in tracking:</p><ul><li><p>Custody arrangements sought</p></li><li><p>Kids’ schedules, activities, lifestyles</p></li><li><p>Budgets documenting child-related expenses</p></li><li><p>State child support guidelines</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr">Compiling this information will support Mackenzie securing desired custody terms and sufficient child support for raising her twins.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Summary of Key Homemaker Divorce Rights</h4><p dir="ltr">Below I’ve summarized key rights homemakers should understand when navigating divorce:</p><div dir="ltr" align="left"><table cellpadding="5" class="froala-table"><tbody><tr><td><p>Right/Claim</p></td><td><p>Basis</p></td><td><p>Documentation</p></td></tr><tr><td><p>Property division</p></td><td><p>Assets acquired during marriage via either spouse</p></td><td><p>All property, assets, debts tracked & valued</p></td></tr><tr><td><p>Alimony/Spousal support</p></td><td><p>Lost earning capacity due to domestic duties</p></td><td><p>Education, career sacrifices, income disparity</p></td></tr><tr><td><p>Child custody</p></td><td><p>Primary caregiver status</p></td><td><p>Schedules, caretaking records, custody sought</p></td></tr><tr><td><p>Child support</p></td><td><p>State formula based on custodial arrangements & income</p></td><td><p>Child expenses, custody terms, state guidelines</p></td></tr></tbody></table></div><p dir="ltr">Compiling thorough documentation around these areas will aid pursuing fair divorce terms as a homemaker.</p><h2 dir="ltr">FAQs About Homemaker Divorce Rights:</h2><p dir="ltr"><br><strong>What are a homemaker's divorce rights and claims?</strong></p><p dir="ltr">Homemakers generally have rights to an equitable distribution of marital assets, alimony based on financial dependence and domestic contributions, child custody if primary caregiver, and child support adhering to state guidelines. Claims should demonstrate lost earning capacity, sacrifices, and overall contributions.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>What paperwork helps document homemaking contributions during a divorce?</strong></p><p dir="ltr">Track records of child rearing, household management, enabling spouse’s career, lost educational and career opportunities, household budgets and expenses. Any documentation showing domestic contributions aids divorce proceedings.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>How is property and debt divided during a divorce as a homemaker?</strong></p><p dir="ltr">Courts divide marital property, assets, and debts equitably based on factors like length of marriage, financial situation, and each spouse's contributions. The split often becomes 50/50 for medium or long term marriages. Homemakers contributions to property acquisition can aid their positioning.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>When determining alimony or spousal support, what should homemakers demonstrate?</strong></p><p dir="ltr">Showcase how domestic duties led to lost wages and earning capacity over time. Convey any impacts to retirement savings and current ability to be self sufficient. Contrast this with employed ex’s career advancement and current income which enables their capability to provide support.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Can a homemaker file for full custody of children during a divorce?</strong></p><p dir="ltr">Yes, as primary caregivers homemaker mothers have strong grounds to request full physical custody of minor children during divorce proceedings. Granting custody considers the children's best interests like lifestyle stability. Visitation rights allow the other parent continued involvement.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>How is an appropriate child support amount determined during divorce?</strong></p><p dir="ltr">Courts determine child support using state guidelines that factor in custody arrangements, number of children, and annual income of non-custodial parent. Homemakers should track all child related expenses and projected budgets to arrive at an adequate support level.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>What happens to the marital home in a divorce with a homemaker?</strong></p><p dir="ltr">Several options exist - the home can be sold with proceeds split, one spouse buys out the other’s equity share to keep the home, or the custodial parent retains occupancy until children reach 18. The approach depends on factors like asset division, outstanding mortgage, and child custody.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Can a judge force the sale of property or assets during divorce proceedings?</strong></p><p dir="ltr">Yes, if the divorcing couple cannot agree on how to split assets like the marital home, retirement funds, or other property, a judge can order the sale of assets. They may force sale of the home and split proceeds if parties cannot negotiate a fair buyout solution.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>How soon after separation should a homemaker file for divorce?</strong></p><p dir="ltr">It’s advisable to file for divorce soon after separating vs waiting years if the decision is firm, as it solidifies the asset split date. Any property or debt acquired by either spouse post filing is considered separate vs marital property. Filing quickly also enables formal child support.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Do homemakers need to pay taxes on alimony received?</strong></p><p dir="ltr">Under the 2019 tax code changes, alimony payment amounts no longer count as taxable income for recipients. The spouse making payments can no longer deduct alimony paid from their taxable income either. This change enables homemakers to receive tax-free support.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Can retirement accounts be divided in a divorce settlement?</strong></p><p dir="ltr">Yes, retirement funds like 401k or IRA savings accumulated during marriage are considered joint marital assets. Through QDROs, retirement accounts can be divided equitably just like other property. Homemakers often have rights to an equitable share based on the length of marriage.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>How soon after divorce can child support agreements be re-visited?</strong></p><p dir="ltr">Child support orders can be re-evaluated within 1-3 years after the initial divorce if there are substantial changes warranting adjustments - like much higher custodial parent income, child medical costs, or other major lifestyle changes. Support agreements should evolve with circumstances.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Do homemakers require a lawyer to navigate the divorce process?</strong></p><p dir="ltr">Hiring a family law attorney well versed in homemaker divorces is highly advisable to protect your rights. The lawyer handles compiling documentation, complex filings, negotiates on your behalf, and aids pursuing fair property division, support, and custody arrangements per state laws.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>How can homemakers achieve better divorce outcomes?</strong></p><p dir="ltr">Do your homework through checklists and online resources to educate yourself on state laws and typical divorce proceedings. Track all related records early on. Seek counsel from divorce attorneys with homemaker expertise, and be ready to make your case for rights to property division, support, and custody arrangements.</p><p dir="ltr"><em>The information provided in this article should not be construed as formal legal advice nor the formation of an attorney-client relationship. All situations discussed here are hypothetical and intended purely for informational purposes. Consult licensed attorneys in your jurisdiction for formalized divorce advice.</em></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>]]></content:encoded>
  200.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/blog/understanding-homemaker-divorce-rights-securing-your-future-after-separation</link>
  201.      <pubDate>Wed, 24 Jan 2024 09:22:00 -1100</pubDate>
  202.      <category>Family Law</category>
  203.    </item>
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  205.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/blog/what-is-the-statute-of-limitations-for-domestic-violence</guid>
  206.      <title><![CDATA[What is the Statute of Limitations for Domestic Violence?]]></title>
  207.      <description>For domestic violence, the statute of limitations varies significantly across jurisdictions. Some states have no statute of limitations and allow charges to be filed many years after abusive incidents, while others require legal action within just a ...</description>
  208.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr">For domestic violence, the statute of limitations varies significantly across jurisdictions. Some states have no statute of limitations and allow charges to be filed many years after abusive incidents, while others require legal action within just a couple years. Understanding the relevant laws is critical for victims considering pursuing civil or criminal remedies.</p><p dir="ltr">In general, time limits apply to civil causes of action but not necessarily criminal charges. So a victim could potentially sue an abuser for personal injury related to domestic violence only within a certain window, but the state is not always bound by the same constraints for filing criminal charges like assault. The complexity deepens when you factor in related issues like child abuse, sexual violence, stalking, and more.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><strong><span style="font-size: 20px;">Key factors influencing statutes of limitations</span></strong></h2><p dir="ltr">There are a few key factors that impact the statutes of limitations for domestic and intimate partner violence cases:</p><ul><li><p>Type of offense - Crimes like murder generally have no statutes of limitations, while other violent felonies and misdemeanors often do. Civil causes of action almost always have strict time limits.</p></li><li><p>Severity of injury - More serious bodily harm sometimes allows more time for victims to pursue damages. Suits involving permanent disability or disfigurement may have exceptions to standard personal injury limits.</p></li><li><p>Age of victim - Minors are sometimes given more years after becoming adults to file civil and criminal complaints in cases of child abuse or molestation. This aims to protect those unable to defend themselves legally while young.</p></li><li><p>Categories of claim - Definitions under the law can determine what time limits apply. Gender violence, sexual assault, and stalking may be treated differently than basic assault and battery, for instance.</p></li><li><p>Jurisdiction - States, territories, tribal courts, and federal laws all have their own statutes of limitations. Whichever jurisdiction a case is filed in will dictate the relevant policies.</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr">Some states have amended their laws in recent years to expand or eliminate statutes of limitations for domestic and sexual violence. The trends aim to provide victims and survivors more flexibility in coming forward when it is safe and feasible for them to take legal action against abusers. However, policies remain inconsistent across the U.S.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Real world examples of statute of limitations impacts</span></h2><p dir="ltr">Sarah was the victim of brutal physical abuse by her husband Tom over 7 years of marriage. On one occasion when she was pregnant, he beat her so severely she had to be hospitalized. Though she managed to escape the relationship eventually, it took Sarah 15 years to feel strong enough to report her ex-husband's violence to the police due to trauma. By the time she came forward, the statute of limitations had expired in her state for domestic violence charges. Sarah's story illustrates why some advocates argue for lengthening or abolishing time limits for victims to pursue justice against intimate partner abuse.</p><p dir="ltr">Maria fled from years of emotional manipulation and sexual coercion by her well-connected boyfriend. She relocated across the country to escape the relationship safely after securing a restraining order. Over a decade later when other allegations surfaced publicly against her ex for similar abuse of other women, Maria finally felt empowered to sue for damages related to the pain and suffering she endured. Though the statute of limitations in her state gives victims up to 25 years for such gender violence suits, Maria still worries the case could be hard to prosecute given the long gap since her abuse.</p><p dir="ltr">At age 45, John began seeing a therapist to deal with the violent physical beatings he received from his alcoholic father as a teenager. Though statutes of limitations prevented him from filing any criminal charges so long after the events occurred, he discovered the right to sue his aging dad in civil court for childhood abuse damages had no expiration in his state. John's lawyer advised seeking a legal remedy before the abuser died, rather than for money, to have the justice system officially acknowledge the harm done.</p><p dir="ltr">These examples demonstrate how statutes of limitations can significantly influence victims and survivors of domestic violence seeking legal remedies, even years later. The above people and scenarios are hypothetical but represent realistic issues seen in these types of cases. An experienced attorney can provide guidance on statute of limitations viability when filing any domestic or gender violence lawsuits.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">The impact of delayed reporting on claims</span></h2><p dir="ltr">Due to the trauma and safety risks, many survivors of intimate partner abuse delay disclosing details or pursuing legal options. One research study found only about 35% of female domestic violence victims report violent incidents when they occur. And one in five never report to any formal support services, even years later.</p><p dir="ltr">Unfortunately, postponing formal complaints can jeopardize future legal resolutions once statutes of limitations expire. Courts may require evidence within a certain timeframe while memories and documentation remain intact. Extended delays reporting abuse can also unfairly damage perceived credibility regarding claims.</p><p dir="ltr">However, some exceptions assist victims who manage to file charges or lawsuits within set limits after initially hesitating. For example, New York's "Discovery Rule" law pauses civil claim countdowns until a victim understands the extent of damages inflicted by domestic or sexual violence. Other states hope to pass similar allowances permitting flexibility and compassion for survivors traumatized by abuse. It remains an evolving legal landscape seeking justice and empowerment for past victims.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Recent changes expanding statutes of limitations</span></h2><p dir="ltr">In response to increased understanding of domestic abuse issues and barriers to timely reporting, some states have enacted laws to extend or eliminate statutes of limitations for related criminal and civil cases.</p><p dir="ltr">While statutes of limitations remain complicated and inconsistent state-by-state, the overall trend shows more jurisdictions focusing on expanding rights and remedies available for domestic violence victims, whether recently traumatized or dealing with historic abuse. There is still considerable room for improvement, but increased flexibility at least signals greater awareness of barriers these survivors face.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Frequently Asked Questions</span><br><br></h2><h4 dir="ltr">What are common time limits to file domestic violence charges?</h4><p dir="ltr">Statutes of limitations for criminal charges related to domestic violence vary widely, from as little as 1-3 years in some states to no limits at all, especially for felony offenses. On average, states tend to allow at least 5-6 years to file misdemeanor charges, and 8-10 years for more serious felony domestic abuse crimes. However, case specifics like age of victim, DNA evidence, injury level, and relationship dynamics can impact precise time limits imposed. It's critical to consult state laws and legal experts to determine viability of pursuing criminal charges based on when alleged incidents occurred.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Can I still file a lawsuit if reporting abuse was delayed due to threats?</h4><p dir="ltr">Unfortunately, statutes of limitations often still apply even when victims hesitate filing civil claims due to trauma, safety concerns, or abuser threats. However, some states like New York do allow for temporary delays in time limits if reporting was impeded specifically by threats or fear directly tied to the domestic violence. There are also efforts in some areas to expand statutes of limitations to better accommodate delays in abuse victims coming forward. Checking specific state laws and speaking to a personal injury lawyer is the best approach to determine if civil action remains feasible despite postponed reporting.</p><h4 dir="ltr">What if abuse crossed state lines?</h4><p dir="ltr">Interstate domestic violence situations create complex legal jurisdiction issues regarding relevant statutes of limitations. In which state alleged incidents occurred, the current residences of victim and perpetrator, precise nature of claims being made, and potential for federal vs. state or multi-state charges all influence applicable time limits. Abuse crossing state lines requires expert analysis of circumstances by an attorney experienced with interstate domestic violence laws. They can then guide victims on whether to file in federal court, the state where incidents happened, or the state where victim or defendant currently live based on statute viability.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Do time limits apply to protective orders?</h4><p dir="ltr">Statutes of limitations are more commonly discussed regarding criminal charges and civil claims related to domestic violence. But restraining orders and other court-ordered protections have relevance time limits too, though often longer than standard personal injury lawsuits. Initial emergency protective orders are typically valid for a few weeks up to 30 days, while judges can order permanent domestic violence restraining orders typically lasting up to 1-5 years. However, some states have expanded laws allowing lifetime restraining orders against abusers with approval processes victims must navigate to renew orders indefinitely. Understanding initial order expirations as well as potential long term extension options is critical for those relying on protections against violent partners.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Can I sue for abuse that occurred 20 years ago?</h4><p dir="ltr">The viability of civil lawsuits related to decades-old abuse incidents depends heavily on state laws and case specifics. Some jurisdictions do allow older cases outside standard personal injury statute of limitations if linked to recovered memories of childhood sexual abuse. California gives victims until age 40 to sue for certain child sex crimes. Other states have exceptions for domestic and gender violence allowing civil claims with no time limit or as much as 25 years from incident date. However, success often relies on evidence and witness availability even if filings are legally allowed due to elapsed time. Consulting an attorney to analyze state precedent and courts’ receptiveness is critical before attempting to sue abusers for older abuse.</p><h4 dir="ltr">What if I signed an NDA with my abuser?</h4><p dir="ltr">Victims sometimes sign non-disclosure agreements with domestic violence abusers, potentially prohibiting publicly discussing or reporting abuse details. However, NDAs cannot legally bind someone from reporting crimes to authorities or testifying if subpoenaed. And civil lawsuits against abusers unrelated to any NDA breach are still possible, like personal injury claims. That said, NDAs and settlements do create additional legal hurdles regarding proof and credibility. Lawyers typically advise consulting an attorney before signing any liability waivers with abusers, especially if future civil action is foreseeable. Any signed NDA should also be reviewed to determine actual restrictions victims face and what legal options remain viable during applicable statutes of limitations.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Do time limits apply to domestic violence restitution?</h4><p dir="ltr">Court ordered restitution refers to criminals repaying victims’ financial losses from crimes like medical bills, property damage, lost wages, etc. Unlike civil lawsuits resulting in personal damage awards, restitution is a criminal penalty, not civil liability. However, statutes of limitations barring prosecutions do then jeopardize getting court ordered restitution, particularly if victims wait years to report domestic crimes. Ensuring cases are filed before statute expirations is key for victims needing help covering tangible financial fallout from spousal abuse. Though some states do allow deferred restitution requests even if charges are dismissed after statutes of limitations pass. Restitution details should be discussed with prosecutors handling domestic violence criminal cases against abusers.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Can I file a civil lawsuit if the abuser was acquitted criminally?</h4><p dir="ltr">The short answer is yes. Acquittals in criminal domestic violence cases handled by public prosecutors do not prohibit privately pursuing civil action like personal injury claims against alleged abusers. Criminal cases require meeting stringent "beyond reasonable doubt" standards to convict, versus lower "preponderance of evidence" thresholds in civil filings. However, credible evidence is still required in civil lawsuits, potentially including explaining why criminal prosecution failed. And acquittals could weaken perceived validity regarding abuse claims, influencing legal strategy. Statutes of limitations also still apply to civil actions regardless of criminal case outcomes. So consulting an attorney quickly is vital for victims considering lawsuits against acquitted abusers.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Do statutes of limitations differ for marital rape?</h4><p dir="ltr">Historically, many states did not even recognize marital rape as a crime. But today, most jurisdictions allow prosecuting rape between married or cohabiting partners similar to other sexual violence and domestic abuse crimes. A minority of states still differentiate marital rape with unique criminal classifications and associated statutes of limitations compared to rape among non-cohabiting couples. And some conservative states impose shorter reporting time limits specifically for spousal rape claims, typically 1-5 years from alleged incidents depending on severity. Victims considering charges for marital rape should research state laws differentiating such cases as well as check if statutory exemptions exist allowing older claims like DNA evidence proving forced sex. An attorney can help navigate complex distinctions around relationship dynamics and sexual violence classifications influencing statutes of limitations.</p><h4 dir="ltr">What if abuse occurred in multiple states?</h4><p dir="ltr">Abuse spanning different jurisdictions creates complex legal issues regarding which state's statute of limitations apply. Factors like where incidents occurred, where victim and defendant live, if the cases involve federal offenses, and if states have reciprocity agreements allowing multi-jurisdictional civil claims all determine applicable time limits and viability of legal action. Consulting an attorney well-versed in interstate domestic violence laws is vital to assess options. Lawyers can then guide victims on optimal venues to file suits related to abuse crossing state lines based on statute of limitation constraints.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Do statutes of limitations for abuse differ on tribal lands?</h4><p dir="ltr">Native American tribes have authority to prosecute certain domestic and dating violence crimes committed by both Native and non-Native perpetrators on tribal lands. Tribal courts operate independently from state systems, with separate policies governing civil and criminal procedures. Many tribes have expanded tribal codes in recent years to address domestic/gender violence and sexual assault more robustly. However, time limits to report abuse and file legal action as well as enforcement still vary widely among tribes. Consulting the tribal court where abuse occurred is critical to determine applicable statutes of limitations and unique jurisdictional processes related to acts on sovereign tribal lands.</p><h4 dir="ltr">What if child abuse was uncovered decades later?</h4><p dir="ltr">Adults recovering memories of past childhood abuse face many legal complications regarding statutes of limitations. Typical time limits to sue abusers civilly often expire by adulthood. However, some states have exceptions allowing civil claims years later for those repressing traumatic memories. California gives victims until age 40 to sue for certain sex crimes. Other states permit decades for lawsuits with recovered memories, especially regarding child abuse. Criminal charges can also sometimes proceed without statutes of limitations depending on state laws. But faded memories and lack of evidence do pose challenges. Consulting an attorney to understand state precedent on lawsuits involving recovered abuse memories is key. </p><p dir="ltr"><em>Disclaimer: This article is for general information purposes only. All people and scenarios described are purely hypothetical and fabricated to illustrate concepts related to domestic violence statutes of limitations. It is not professional legal advice. Applicable laws and policies vary significantly by jurisdiction. Victims considering taking any legal action related to domestic, dating, or intimate partner abuse must consult directly with qualified attorneys to understand options and viability based on case specifics and location.</em></p>]]></content:encoded>
  209.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/blog/what-is-the-statute-of-limitations-for-domestic-violence</link>
  210.      <pubDate>Wed, 24 Jan 2024 08:43:00 -1100</pubDate>
  211.      <category>Criminal Law</category>
  212.    </item>
  213.    <item>
  214.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/blog/how-to-answer-cross-examination-questions-in-family-court-complete-guide</guid>
  215.      <title><![CDATA[How to Answer Cross Examination Questions in Family Court (Complete Guide!)]]></title>
  216.      <description>When answering cross-examination questions in family court, it's important to stay calm, listen carefully to each question, and answer honestly and directly, focusing only on the information asked. Avoid providing extra details or opinions that ...</description>
  217.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr">When answering cross-examination questions in family court, it's important to stay calm, listen carefully to each question, and answer honestly and directly, focusing only on the information asked. Avoid providing extra details or opinions that are not directly related to the question. Always speak respectfully and clearly, and if you don't understand a question, it's okay to ask for clarification.</p><p dir="ltr">When I took the stand during my child custody trial, I was extremely nervous about being cross-examined. I knew the opposing counsel would try to trip me up or get me to say something damaging to my case. However, with thorough preparation and focus, I was able to handle the intense questioning. Based on my experience, here is my advice on how to effectively answer cross examination questions in family court.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>The key takeaways are:</strong></p><ul><li><p> Carefully listen to each question asked</p></li><li><p> Answer only the question asked concisely</p></li><li><p> Do not volunteer additional information</p></li><li><p> Remain composed and stick to the facts</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr">As I sat in the witness box, the opposing counsel approached me slowly, legal pad in hand. Hestarted asking me short, pointed questions about my qualifications as a parent - had I ever yelled at my child? Had I ever been late to pick her up? I knew he was trying to paint me in a negative light, so I focused on answering each question directly without elaboration.</p><p dir="ltr">For example, when he asked if I had ever yelled at my daughter, I simply said "Yes." I did not go into details about the circumstances or try to justify my actions. That could come later during redirect examination with my own lawyer. The key is not to give the cross-examiner any ammunition to use against you.</p><p dir="ltr">I could feel my heart racing as the questions got more confrontational about my past drug use and relationships. He tried to trip me up by asking rapid fire or compound questions. Whenever I felt overwhelmed, I asked him to restate or break down the question. Do not feel rushed - take a moment to process each question fully before answering. </p><p dir="ltr">Breathe and stay centered when the questions feel personal or attacking. The opposing counsel is simply doing their job to represent their client's interests. Do not get defensive or emotional. Stick to the facts and remain as objective as possible.</p><p dir="ltr">For example, when questioned about an old photo showing me at a party, I stuck to stating objective facts about the timing and circumstances. I did not react to the accusatory tone or speculate about what he was implying. My factual answers disarmed many of his attempts to impugn my character.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Handling Trick Questions</span></h2><p dir="ltr">One common cross examination technique is to ask confusing hypothetical or misleading questions. If needed, ask for clarification before answering tricky questions. For example, when asked a convoluted hypothetical, I responded "Can you please rephrase the question? I want to make sure I fully understand before I answer."</p><p dir="ltr">The opposing counsel will often ask yes or no questions to try and box you into a definitive response. However, do not feel that you must answer yes or no if the truth is more nuanced. In those cases, qualify your answers to ensure accuracy. </p><p dir="ltr">For example, when asked "Isn’t it true you never helped your daughter with her science project?" I answered "I assisted with her science project, but I did not construct the entire project independently without her input." </p><p dir="ltr">While longer than a yes or no response, my answer reflects the facts while avoiding the opposing counsel's attempt to oversimplify the scenario. Qualifying answers helps prevent them from putting words in your mouth.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Redirect Examination</span></h2><p dir="ltr">While cross examination can feel draining, keep in mind your own lawyer will have a chance to clear up any ambiguities during redirect examination. I was very glad when my lawyer stood up to ask me follow up questions after the cross examination concluded. </p><p dir="ltr">During the redirect, she allowed me to provide fuller context and explanation around many of the opposing counsel's questions. I finally had a chance to share more details about situations that he had tried to distort. In the end, sticking to the key strategies allowed me to weather a tough cross examination and still effectively convey my side of the story.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Frequently Asked Questions</span><br><br></h2><h4 dir="ltr"><em>1. How do I prepare for cross examination questions in family court?</em></h4><p dir="ltr">Thorough preparation is key to successfully handling cross examination. Before trial, create a list of every possible question you think the opposing counsel may ask. Practice answering clearly and concisely out loud. Identify any issues they may try to focus on like past drug use, arrests, relationships. Be ready to address difficult topics objectively.</p><h4 dir="ltr">2. What if I feel upset or angry during cross examination?</h4><p dir="ltr">It can be very frustrating when the opposing counsel asks invasive or upsetting questions. Do your best to stay grounded - take a few deep breaths if you start to feel overwhelmed. Stick to the facts and do not get defensive. You will have a chance to contextualize your answers later during the redirect examination.</p><h4 dir="ltr">3. What if I don't understand a question being asked?</h4><p dir="ltr">Politely ask for clarification by saying something like "Could you please rephrase the question? I want to make sure I fully understand before answering." There is no shame in asking for tricky questions to be broken down if needed. Only answer once you understand exactly what is being asked.</p><h4 dir="ltr">4. What if I don't know the answer to a question?</h4><p dir="ltr">If you genuinely do not know or cannot remember the answer, simply state "I don't recall" or"I'm not sure" rather than guessing or speculating. There is nothing wrong with admitting you do not have all the answers. Guessing incorrectly could hurt your credibility.</p><h4 dir="ltr">5. Should I keep my answers short?</h4><p dir="ltr">As a general rule, answer cross examination questions with brevity while still being accurate. The longer and more detailed your responses, the more likely you may inadvertently say something problematic. Stick to concise answers focused strictly on the question asked unless your attorney advises otherwise.</p><h4 dir="ltr">6. What kind of questions should I expect during cross examination?</h4><p dir="ltr">Common cross examination questions try to establish facts that weaken your credibility or case. Expect questions about your background, qualifications, history of statements, perception of events, biases, inconsistencies or flaws in your allegations. Remain calm and stick to the facts.</p><h4 dir="ltr">7. What body language tips can help me during cross examination?</h4><p dir="ltr">Maintain an open, upright posture and appropriate eye contact. Do not fidget, shuffle papers excessively or engage in nervous habits like nail biting. Project confidence through your demeanor - do not shrug excessively or use uncertain language. Speak clearly and loudly enough to be heard by the court.</p><h4 dir="ltr">8. Should I qualify my answers to avoid yes or no responses?</h4><p dir="ltr">If a yes or no answer could be misleading or oversimplify complex situations, qualify your responses. But be careful not to appear evasive or overly defensive. Find a balance between incision and accuracy tailored to each specific question.</p><h4 dir="ltr">9. What kind of objections might my lawyer make during cross examination?</h4><p dir="ltr">Common objections include argumentative, compound question, lacks foundation, irrelevant, asked and answered, speculation, leading question, vague or ambiguous. Understand why your lawyer is objecting - it is to prevent problematic questions.</p><h4 dir="ltr">10. Can the opposing counsel harass or badger me during cross examination?</h4><p dir="ltr">If the questioning becomes clearly harassing, your attorney can object. The judge may then instruct counsel to discontinue inappropriate badgering. If needed, the judge may call a recess to allow you to compose yourself after aggressive questioning.</p><h4 dir="ltr">11. How do I correct a mistake I make during cross examination?</h4><p dir="ltr">If you realize you misspoke or your answer was inaccurate, correct yourself as soon as possible. Say "I apologize, I do not want to mislead the court. Let me clarify my previous response." Judges understand people make mistakes - promptly correcting them shows honesty.</p><h4 dir="ltr">12. Should I look at the judge or lawyer when answering questions?</h4><p dir="ltr">Maintain eye contact primarily with the lawyer asking you questions. However, you can briefly glance at the judge if needed, especially when the question seems argumentative or inappropriate. This helps subtly register your concern or disagreement.</p><h4 dir="ltr">13. Can I clarify something I said earlier during my testimony?</h4><p dir="ltr">If there is a pressing need to clarify earlier statements not fully addressed during redirect examination, politely ask the judge if you can briefly explain further. However, this should be very limited - do not rehash your whole testimony again unless absolutely vital.</p><h4 dir="ltr">14. What kind of details should I avoid providing during cross examination?</h4><p dir="ltr">Do not volunteer tangential facts or extraneous background details beyond what is necessary to directly answer the question. Stick to concise, relevant, responsive answers only. Oversharing could open new avenues for challenging questions.</p><h4 dir="ltr">15. Should I restate the question before answering it?</h4><p dir="ltr">It can be wise to briefly restate lengthy or complex questions in your own words before answering to confirm understanding. For example, "So if I understand your question correctly, you are asking whether I ever yelled at my daughter - yes, I have raised my voice at her on occasion."</p><p dir="ltr"><em>This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It should not be construed as formal legal advice or as creating an attorney/client relationship. All situations described and people referenced are fictional and used for illustrative purposes only. You should consult directly with an attorney for any legal questions related to your specific situation.</em></p>]]></content:encoded>
  218.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/blog/how-to-answer-cross-examination-questions-in-family-court-complete-guide</link>
  219.      <pubDate>Fri, 15 Dec 2023 10:52:00 -1100</pubDate>
  220.      <category>Family Law</category>
  221.    </item>
  222.    <item>
  223.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/blog/what-does-prove-up-mean-in-a-divorce-case-all-you-need-to-know</guid>
  224.      <title><![CDATA[What Does Prove up Mean in a Divorce Case? (All You Need to Know!)]]></title>
  225.      <description>The "prove-up hearing" is the final court date in an uncontested divorce case where the judge reviews all paperwork and agreements to formally finalize the divorce. It allows the court to validate that all legal requirements are satisfied t...</description>
  226.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr">The "prove-up hearing" is the final court date in an uncontested divorce case where the judge reviews all paperwork and agreements to formally finalize the divorce. It allows the court to validate that all legal requirements are satisfied to dissolve the marriage.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Key Takeaways:</span></h2><ul><li><p>The prove-up hearing concludes an uncontested divorce by court approval</p></li><li><p>The judge ensures settlement agreements meet guidelines to be valid</p></li><li><p>Parties briefly testify to affirm accuracy of submitted documentation</p></li><li><p>Assumes prior resolution of any disputes over assets, support, custody</p></li><li><p>Judge signs final paperwork after approving agreements</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr">As someone who struggled through a difficult divorce after 14 years of marriage, I breathed a sigh of relief when my lawyer first mentioned scheduling a “prove-up hearing.” This terminology was foreign to me at the time, but I soon learned this court date signals the finish line is in sight. The prove-up hearing is the final step in an uncontested divorce where the judge reviews all submitted agreements to ensure everything meets legal standards, allowing him or her to formally enter a judgment to dissolve your marriage.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Why a Hearing is Required to Finalize Divorce</span></h2><p dir="ltr">You may wonder why one last court appearance is necessary if you and your spouse have already mutually agreed on the terms to end your marriage. Why can’t the judge just sign the paperwork without this extra step? The prove-up serves an important legal purpose – to prove to the court's satisfaction that you have adequately met the procedural and documentation requirements to complete the divorce process.</p><p dir="ltr">While settlement agreements reflect that both parties find the terms acceptable, the court has an independent duty to validate these agreements are legally sound. The law does not want to finalize lopsided deals reached under duress or due to one party's lack of understanding. So the prove-up creates an opportunity for the judge to question the parties, review paperwork, and ultimately approve or reject the proposed resolutions.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">What Happens at a Prove-Up Hearing</span></h2><p dir="ltr">The prove-up hearing allows the court to dot the I's and cross the T's to finish the divorce. Here is what typically takes place:</p><ul><li><p><strong>Brief Testimony</strong> - The petitioner answers questions, under oath, confirming key information about the marriage, grounds for divorce, and accuracy of submitted documents.</p></li><li><p><strong>Review of Paperwork</strong> - Judge reviews settlement agreement, parenting plan, financial affidavits, and any other filed paperwork. Ensures terms are equitable and details are logically consistent.</p></li><li><p><strong>Chance to Amend Issues</strong> - If judge notices errors in documents or has concerns, parties can amend agreements on the spot to address before concluding.</p></li><li><p><strong>Formal Approval</strong> - Provided all paperwork and testimony meets legal standards, the judge approves the agreements and signs orders to finalize the divorce.</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr">The prove-up usually lasts less than 30 minutes for an uncontested case with proper paperwork in order. Much of the judge's review occurs behind the scenes before this quick, largely perfunctory court appearance.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Key Legal Standards the Judge Evaluates</span></h2><p dir="ltr">The judge applies certain guidelines and legal tests when reviewing your divorce paperwork to determine if a prove-up results in final approval. Among the key standards evaluated:</p><ul><li><p><strong>Settlement Terms </strong>- Assesses whether asset division, support provisions, and custody arrangements seem equitable and appropriate given the family situation. Courts won’t approve deals considered severely imbalanced or unfair.</p></li><li><p><strong>Legal Requirements</strong> - Validates all documentation meets applicable legal guidelines for content and formatting - nothing missing or completed improperly.</p></li><li><p><strong>Voluntary Agreement</strong> - Confirms through testimony that both parties understand and willingly consent to settlement terms without force, fraud, or coercion.</p></li><li><p><strong>Best Interests of Children</strong> - For couples with kids, evaluates if parenting plan serves the best interests of the child(ren).</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr">Meeting these standards provides assurance the agreements resolve divorce issues fairly while complying with the law. This frees the judge to finalize the case.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">What if the Judge Rejects Your Agreements?</span></h2><p dir="ltr">If the judge determines your paperwork has deficiencies that prevent approval, you have a few options:</p><ul><li><p>Revise agreements on the spot to remedy concerns</p></li><li><p>Request a continuance to finalize proper documents</p></li><li><p>Convert to a contested case and go to trial</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr">In most instances, minor tweaks resolve any issues if the agreements are otherwise fair and thorough. Having an attorney helps prepare air-tight paperwork to prevent rejections. While rare, last-minute snags can occur, so the prove-up creates a failsafe for the court to catch problems.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Real-World Examples of Prove-Up Outcomes</span></h2><p dir="ltr">To illustrate the prove-up process, here are examples from my case and a friend’s divorce:</p><ul><li><p>My case had clean paperwork, so after brief testimony confirming key facts, our ten-minute prove-up ended with the bang of the gavel finalizing divorce.</p></li><li><p>A friend forgot to attach a required exhibit to her settlement agreement. The judge allowed a week's continuance to provide the missing document before completing the prove-up.</p></li><li><p>Another friend undergoing a default divorce had his paperwork rejected when the judge found the asset split disproportionately favored him. He agreed to give his ex-wife a larger share of the house sale proceeds to get the revised deal approved.</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr">While each prove-up hearing has unique wrinkles, they mostly follow an orderly protocol leading to closing the book on your marriage.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Frequently Asked Questions</span><br><br></h2><h4 dir="ltr">What if I can't attend the scheduled prove-up date?</h4><p dir="ltr">If you cannot make the prove-up date, your lawyer can file a motion to continue the hearing to a date that fits your schedule. However, this delays finalizing your divorce, so try to calendar it at a time you know you can attend.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Will the judge ask me questions about my situation?</h4><p dir="ltr">The judge typically only asks very brief yes or no questions to verify your identity and confirm key facts stated in the submitted documents are accurate. In-depth questions about your personal situation are rare unless the judge notices conflicting facts.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Do I need to memorize my agreements?</h4><p dir="ltr">No need to memorize details as you won't be quizzed about specifics. Just affirm to the judge that you reviewed all documents with your attorney, understand the terms, had all questions answered, and agree to them voluntarily.</p><h4 dir="ltr">What should I wear to my prove-up?</h4><p dir="ltr">Though virtual hearings are common now, if appearing in court, dress professionally as you would for a job interview - business casual at minimum. This shows respect for court proceedings.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Can my divorce still be denied even if I have a signed settlement?</h4><p dir="ltr">Yes, the judge can still reject agreements at the prove-up stage if he/she finds significant issues like missing information, unfairness, or concerns about voluntary consent. Judicial approval provides a final quality check.</p><h4 dir="ltr">What happens if my spouse refuses to sign agreements?</h4><p dir="ltr">Without mutual consent, you may have to revert to a contested divorce decided at trial. However, if your spouse won't participate but doesn't explicitly object, a default prove-up is still possible for the judge to review and approve paperwork.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Who keeps the original divorce decree after the prove-up?</h4><p dir="ltr">The court keeps the original records, but will stamp "filed" on all copies brought to the prove-up. This serves as your proof the divorce was finalized in case you need it for any reason down the road.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Is a court reporter required for my prove-up?</h4><p dir="ltr">A court reporter is not legally required, but is highly recommended so you have a transcript of the proceedings if questions ever arise later about what was stated or approved.</p><h4 dir="ltr">What percentage of cases have paperwork get rejected?</h4><p dir="ltr">While statistics on rejection rates are hard to pinpoint, attorneys estimate 85-90% of uncontested prove-ups get approved on the first try. This speaks to the due diligence exercised by lawyers to prepare air-tight agreements.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Who can attend with me?</h4><p dir="ltr">The only people required to attend the prove-up are you (the petitioner), your lawyer, and the judge. However, your spouse can also attend if desired. Some judges discourage bringing children or other guests.</p><h4 dir="ltr">How soon can I remarry after my prove-up?</h4><p dir="ltr">You cannot remarry until the divorce judgment is signed by the judge and filed with the court, which may take a few days or weeks after the prove-up. This completes the dissolution of your prior marriage in the eyes of the law.</p><p dir="ltr"><em>The preceding article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. All references to individuals and events are fictionalized.</em></p>]]></content:encoded>
  227.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/blog/what-does-prove-up-mean-in-a-divorce-case-all-you-need-to-know</link>
  228.      <pubDate>Fri, 15 Dec 2023 09:45:00 -1100</pubDate>
  229.      <category>Family Law</category>
  230.    </item>
  231.    <item>
  232.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/blog/what-is-a-petition-for-special-relief-in-divorce-and-do-you-need-one</guid>
  233.      <title><![CDATA[What is a Petition for Special Relief in Divorce? (And Do You Need One?)]]></title>
  234.      <description>A petition for special relief in divorce is a legal filing that requests the court to take action on some urgent matter that cannot wait until the final divorce decree. I recently went through my own divorce after 15 years of marriage, which involved...</description>
  235.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr">A petition for special relief in divorce is a legal filing that requests the court to take action on some urgent matter that cannot wait until the final divorce decree. I recently went through my own divorce after 15 years of marriage, which involved filing such a petition. In my case, I requested the court to prevent my soon-to-be ex-husband from hiding assets that were marital property. </p><p dir="ltr">The key takeaways about petitions for special relief are:</p><ul><li><p> They allow urgent legal intervention before final rulings on divorce terms</p></li><li><p> Types of relief include asset protection, child custody orders, bill payments</p></li><li><p> Reasons for filing include irreparable harm, maintaining status quo</p></li><li><p> Require a hearing and approval by a judge to take effect</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr">When I first consulted my divorce attorney Amy after discovering suspicious bank transfers by my husband Dan, she explained that petitions for special relief are a way to get temporary court orders in place quickly before a divorce is finalized. The urgency lay in the fact that if Dan were to drain and hide funds that were considered joint marital assets, it could be difficult for me to recover them later.</p><p dir="ltr">Amy gave the example of another client Sara whose husband suddenly stopped paying the mortgage and utilities for the house she and their two kids lived in. Sara faced irreparable credit damage and risked losing the house, so Amy filed a petition on her behalf asking the court to order the husband to continue making those payments until the divorce was settled. The judge agreed that Sara and the children should not face undue hardship.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Preparing My Petition with Help from My Attorney</span></h2><p dir="ltr">In my case, Amy prepared the paperwork for a petition requesting the court stop Dan from transferring assets out of certain bank accounts and brokerage funds without my consent. She explained that the goal was to maintain the status quo regarding major marital assets so that they could be equitably divided later. </p><p dir="ltr">I had to provide Amy with statements showing the suspicious transfers Dan had already made behind my back. She told me that petitions for special relief typically require some proof of why such an order is urgently needed.</p><p dir="ltr">We scheduled an emergency hearing where Amy presented our petition to the judge along with affidavits from me, bank statements, and arguments about the irreparable financial harm I faced. Though uncomfortable confronting Dan in court, I found the judge to be understanding as he questioned both sides. In the end, he granted our request, ordering Dan not to make any transfers over $500 from specified accounts without my written agreement.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Living with Temporary Special Relief Orders</span></h2><p dir="ltr">That first victory was a relief, but Amy cautioned that special relief orders only remain in effect until the divorce is finalized. It took another eight months until Dan and I reached a settlement on the division of assets and debts. During that period, the special relief order protected marital funds from being squandered.</p><p dir="ltr">However, living under special relief conditions was also restrictive for me. Since I had gotten the house in the temporary orders, Dan was ordered to pay the mortgage and bills for it. But whenever there was any small issue like a repair needed or appliance breaking, he would fight me over it. I wish the orders had spelled out division of those responsibilities more clearly.</p><p dir="ltr">Ultimately though, I was glad we had sought special relief because I don't think negotiations would have gone as well without those protections in place. My advice for anyone facing a complex divorce is to consult an attorney about whether filing for special relief early on would be wise to preserve your rights and resources. Don't wait until circumstances spiral out of control.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Common Types of Special Relief Ordered</span></h2><p dir="ltr">In addition to asset protection, as in my case, some other common situations where one party may file for special relief include:</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Child custody:</strong> If you fear the other parent plans to leave town and take your kids without agreement, seek an order prohibiting relocation with the children until custody is formally decided. My friend Lauren went through this when her estranged husband tried to take their son to another state surreptitiously.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Temporary support:</strong> If you are financially dependent and your spouse cuts you off from assets, ask the court to reinstate status quo access to funds until a final settlement. My hairdresser's sister faced dire straits when her breadwinner husband closed their joint accounts. </p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Use of property:</strong> If the marital home or other dwelling is jointly owned, but your spouse tries to make you leave, seek an order for exclusive occupancy rights to stay there until the divorce. Also covers vehicles leased or owned together.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Insurance policies:</strong> Ask the court to order that life insurance policies naming you as beneficiary not be changed. Health insurance coverage for you and kids should also be maintained.</p><p dir="ltr">These are just a few examples - there are many other circumstances where special relief orders can protect rights and prevent one party from inflicting harm on the other during the lengthy divorce process.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">The Petition Filing Process and Hearing</span></h2><p dir="ltr">Filing a petition for special relief requires going through some precise legal steps, as I learned from my attorney:</p><ol><li><p> Consult with and retain an experienced family law attorney to prepare your request and represent you. You or your lawyer will file the petition with the court handling your divorce case.</p></li><li><p> The petition must provide clear details on the urgent situation, your requested relief, arguments for that request, and proof supporting those arguments (affidavits, financial records, etc.)</p></li><li><p> You must have the other party personally served with notice of the petition and hearing date, providing time for them to prepare a response.</p></li><li><p> On the scheduled hearing date, you, your lawyer, and your spouse's lawyer will appear before the assigned judge, who will consider arguments and evidence from both sides.</p></li><li><p> The judge will decide either to grant or deny the special relief by issuing a temporary order that lasts until divorce completion. They can also schedule a further hearing for more fact-finding.</p></li><li><p> If granted immediate relief, your lawyer will help craft the written temporary order and get it filed and served. You must comply with the order terms until the divorce decree overrides it.</p></li></ol><p dir="ltr">Clearly this full legal process requires determination and resources, so consider carefully whether you qualify for and need special relief before pursuing it. The time and costs involved will be worthwhile if you truly need the court’s intervention to prevent irreparable harm. For me, it provided vital protection at a vulnerable time.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Frequently Asked Questions</span></h2><h4><br>When would a petition for special relief make sense in a divorce case?</h4><p dir="ltr">Special relief is intended for situations that require urgent attention which cannot wait for a full trial and final judgment. Common scenarios include: one spouse stealing assets or hiding money, threats to illegally take children out of state, attempts to force you out of the home, suddenly cutting off financial support agreed to be provided temporarily.</p><h4 dir="ltr">What kinds of orders can the court make in granting special relief?</h4><p dir="ltr">Some examples of relief the court can temporarily order until divorce completion are: prohibiting asset transfers, stopping harassment or abuse, determining temporary custody rights for visitation restrictions, exclusive temporary home occupancy rights, mandating life insurance beneficiary names remain unchanged, health coverage continuance, payment of bills for assets like houses or cars, determining temporary alimony or child support, and preventing relocation with children.</p><h4>How does the court determine what relief to order?</h4><p dir="ltr">The party filing the petition must convince the judge through documented evidence and credible testimony that irreparable harm is likely without court intervention. Factors considered are preservation of assets, risk to children, balance of hardship between parties, andpreventing drastic life changes until the divorce is finalized.</p><h4>What proof do I need to get special relief orders?</h4><p dir="ltr">The best way to prove urgent need is providing concrete evidence like financial records showing suspicious asset transfers, written or verbal threats to take adverse actions, emails or texts demonstrating plans to harm your interests, records of abruptly canceled insurance policies or credit cards, and affidavit testimony describing what happened.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Can I request special relief even if I’m the one who left or moved out of the marital residence?</h4><p dir="ltr">Yes, the right to request temporary relief is not limited by which spouse left the marriage first. Even if you voluntarily moved out, if your spouse threatens harm through actions like cutting off agreed upon support or insurance coverage, hiding assets, weaponizing children through custody threats, or not paying bills they agreed to cover, you can file for protective orders.</p><h4>How soon can I get an order for special relief from the court?</h4><p dir="ltr">If your petition convinces the judge immediate harm is likely, they can issue temporary orders very quickly, even within days of an emergency hearing. However, if your situation is less urgent or more complex, it may take weeks to get a hearing scheduled and relief ordered. Communicate clearly to your lawyer just how fast court intervention is needed.</p><h4>Do I need to have an attorney to file a petition for special relief?</h4><p dir="ltr">No, but having a qualified family law attorney prepare and argue your petition is highly advisable. The documentation and process for getting emergency relief can be complex, and an experienced lawyer will know how to prove urgency to the court. They can also help craft effective temporary orders and enforce them going forward.</p><h4>How much does it cost to get special relief in a divorce?</h4><p dir="ltr">The costs involved in getting temporary orders through a special relief petition include attorney fees to prepare, file and argue the request, filing fees with the court to open a special relief case, and fees to legally serve notice papers on your spouse. Simple cases can cost a few thousand dollars, while complex ones with lots of litigation can cost tens of thousands.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Is a hearing always required for special relief?</h4><p dir="ltr">Yes, generally the judge will require a formal hearing where both spouses/partners, represented by counsel if desired, testify to argue for or against special relief. The judge determines credibility and urgency based on witness testimony and other evidence to decide whether to temporarily order the requested relief.</p><h4>My spouse violated the special relief orders. What can I do?</h4><p dir="ltr">If your spouse violates the court-ordered temporary relief, document the violations thoroughly and contact your attorney right away. They can file an enforcement action or contempt motion against your spouse for flouting the court’s authority. The judge can impose additional orders, fines, or other penalties to compel compliance.</p><h4>How will I know when the special relief orders are terminated?</h4><p dir="ltr">Special relief orders expire automatically once your final divorce decree, settlement agreement, or judgement is issued, replacing the temporary relief with permanent rulings. The court will not send separate notice, but your lawyer can confirm when your case status shifts to final judgment and the orders end.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Can the special relief orders be extended or modified?</h4><p dir="ltr">If your divorce case gets excessively delayed, you can file a motion to extend special relief orders beyond the usual duration if the need persists. You would appear before the same court and judge to modify orders or have them remain in place longer through extensions. Terms Might be altered to adapt to changing conditions.</p><h4 dir="ltr"> If I remarry, do special relief orders from my previous divorce still apply?</h4><p dir="ltr">No, generally once you legally remarry, special relief orders tied to your previous divorce would be considered obsolete and unenforceable. At that point, your divorce should be long since finalized, with permanent rulings replacing temporary relief. Check with your attorney, but new relationships usually nullify interim orders.</p><h4>Can I request special relief even before formally filing for divorce?</h4><p dir="ltr">In some states, you can request temporary orders related to assets, support, custody etc. concurrently when first filing your divorce petition, without needing a separate application. Alternatively, an emergency petition can be filed shortly before initiating divorce if urgent circumstances require quick court intervention even before the case gets fully underway.</p><h4>What if the judge denies my petition for special relief?</h4><p dir="ltr">If your petition gets denied, ask your lawyer whether grounds exist to file a motion to reconsider or appeal that decision to a higher court. Alternatively, reassess your case and evidence to improve your justification for relief. You can file again later if circumstances deteriorate further. Get guidance from your attorney so you understand all your options.</p><p dir="ltr"><em>This article describes fictionalized accounts of real-world situations for illustration and educational purposes only. Names, characters, businesses, places, events, and incidents referred to are products of the author’s imagination, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental. The information provided should not be construed as formal legal advice or the formation of an attorney-client relationship.</em></p>]]></content:encoded>
  236.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/blog/what-is-a-petition-for-special-relief-in-divorce-and-do-you-need-one</link>
  237.      <pubDate>Fri, 15 Dec 2023 08:55:00 -1100</pubDate>
  238.      <category>Family Law</category>
  239.    </item>
  240.    <item>
  241.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/blog/what-happens-to-wills-when-law-firm-closes-do-you-need-to-do-anything</guid>
  242.      <title><![CDATA[What Happens to Wills When Law Firm Closes? (Do You Need To Do Anything?)]]></title>
  243.      <description>When a law firm closes, wills handled by the firm are typically transferred to another law firm or a secure storage facility. Clients are usually notified about the transfer and given instructions on how to access their wills. It is advisable for cli...</description>
  244.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr">When a law firm closes, wills handled by the firm are typically transferred to another law firm or a secure storage facility. Clients are usually notified about the transfer and given instructions on how to access their wills. It is advisable for clients to contact the new firm to confirm the transfer and update any contact details or relevant information.</p><p dir="ltr">When Alice's father passed away unexpectedly last year, she expected to inherit his home and savings as per the will he signed a decade earlier. But his law firm dissolved soon after drafting the document and failed to adequately notify clients before closing. With no records of where her father's will ended up, Alice now faces a lengthy court battle to claim her rightful share of his estate.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">What Happens to Will Custody When a Firm Shuts Down</span></h2><p dir="ltr">As Alice's case illustrates, a law firm's closure can create confusion around the fate of wills, especially if the attorneys fail to follow proper continuity planning protocol. However, legal ethics rules and common law dictate specific procedures for asset transfers when a practice winds down, including:</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Secure Custody: </strong>Attorneys who agree to preserve original wills must index them and either place them into secure storage or transfer them to a successor lawyer assuming the firm's active files. Proper information barriers protect client confidentiality.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Client Notifications: </strong>Lawyers should notify clients well in advance of impending closure and offer to return documents held in safekeeping, such as wills. Without consent, attorneys may dispose of copies but must continue storing originals.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Orderly Transfers:</strong> Governing bodies like state bar associations mandate that firm owners retire or dissolve their practices in an orderly manner, following established regulatory guidance around client transitions.</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Oversight:</strong> Depending on jurisdiction, oversight bodies like state bar ethics committees or supreme court boards can claim custodianship over abandoned wills and estate plans to prevent assets from being mishandled.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Why Proper Transfers Matter</span></h2><p dir="ltr">Like most states, Alice's imposed strict rules around law practice continuity planning to prevent situations exactly like hers. However, without robust oversight and enforcement procedures, gaps can occur, especially when firms face bankruptcies or other disasters rather than orderly shutdowns.</p><p dir="ltr">Without access to her father's will, Alice now faces substantial legal hurdles to claim inheritance of his home and bank accounts. The court may force her to apply for administrator status over his entire estate, requiring extensive paperwork and potential battles with creditors staking their own financial claims.</p><p dir="ltr">Beyond Alice’s personal hardships from the firm’s lack of responsible custody planning, improperly handled wills can also lead to:</p><ul><li><p><strong>Estate Mismanagement:</strong> With no executor guidance, heirs may dispute asset division or creditors may collect unjustified debts.</p></li><li><p><strong>Tax Implications:</strong> Beneficiaries claiming inheritances without documented wills can face higher estate taxes or loss of special use exemptions.</p></li><li><p><strong>Reputation Damage: </strong>Poor continuity procedures can erode public trust in the legal profession and undermine business continuity expectations.</p></li></ul><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">How Beneficiaries Can Reclaim Lost Wills</span></h2><p dir="ltr">Despite gaps in regulatory oversight, heirs like Alice retain options for recovering copies of “lost” wills associated with dissolved firms:</p><h4 dir="ltr">Check with Governing Bodies</h4><p dir="ltr">Depending on jurisdiction, bar associations may have assumed custodianship of abandoned legal documents from shuttered practices. Regional ethics boards often provide this type of protective oversight.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Contact Successor Firms</h4><p dir="ltr">If a law practice was sold rather than simply closed, successors likely received custody over all case files, including physical and digital estate planning documents.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Search Court Archives</h4><p dir="ltr">Many probate courts offer both remote and on-site access to indexed will registries used to verify testator information after death.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Leverage Legal Counsel</h4><p dir="ltr">Estate attorneys can petition courts to accept valid copies of original wills still held by beneficiaries or located in other firm archives. This is Alice’s likely next step.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;"><strong>Why Lawyers Must Plan for Firm Closures</strong></span></h2><p dir="ltr">To prevent the custody confusion that cost Alice her quick inheritance, attorneys should proactively prepare for eventual practice dissolution through continuity planning steps like:</p><ul><li><p><strong>Centralized Wills Registry:</strong> States could maintain centralized registries that require firms to record all held estate documents like wills, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives.</p></li><li><p><strong>Custody Memorandums:</strong> Lawyers should confirm will storage and transfer instructions with clients via detailed memos rather than vague verbal agreements.</p></li><li><p><strong>Ethical Guidelines Enforcement:</strong> Bar associations must consistently enforce rules around orderly firm closures rather than just publishing guidance. Penalties could include license suspensions.</p></li><li><p><strong>Mandatory Transfer Planning:</strong> Regulators can mandate that firms create and regularly update custody transition plans for all held client assets in case of unexpected practice dissolution.</p></li><li><p><strong>Practice Sales:</strong> Since asset transfers tend to flow more smoothly in practice sales versus outright closures, attorneys should prepare business valuations and merger options well in advance of retirement.</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr">While rare, law firm dissolutions highlight the critical importance of continuity planning to protect client interests like inheritance rights. By learning from Alice’s experience, the legal profession can hopefully prevent similar custody confusion in the future.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;"><em>Frequently Asked Questions</em></span></h2><h4 dir="ltr">What notification should lawyers provide to clients when closing a firm?</h4><p dir="ltr">Attorneys should directly contact all clients substantially in advance of intended firm closure to offer return of any original documents held in safekeeping, such as wills. Without explicit consent, lawyers may dispose of copies but must continue storing originals according to ethical guidelines.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Can a law firm simply abandon custody of all client records if it shuts down?</h4><p dir="ltr">No, legal ethics rules explicitly prohibit firm owners from abruptly abandoning client records without attempting orderly transitions, even in bankruptcies or disasters. This includes safely storing items like wills until successors can assume control or transferring records to bar associations for custodianship.</p><h4 dir="ltr">How can beneficiaries access estate planning documents if the responsible law firm dissolved?</h4><p dir="ltr">Heirs retaining copies of original wills can hire estate planning lawyers to petition probate courts to validate those duplicates. Additionally, claimants can check with state bar associations, contact successor firms that purchased a dissolved practice, or search indexed court archives.</p><h4 dir="ltr">What happens if a successor lawyer cannot locate a will for a deceased client of a closed firm?</h4><p dir="ltr">If a dissolved firm fails to appropriately transfer original wills before shutting down, and beneficiaries cannot locate duplicates in public records, the estate may need to process through probate without testator guidance. This forces heirs to petition courts for administrator status to settle outstanding debts.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Could stricter regulatory oversight have prevented the confusion over Alice’s father’s lost will?</h4><p dir="ltr">Yes, if bar associations enforced existing practice continuity planning requirements instead of just publishing guidance, Alice's family would likely retain clear custody of the will. Additional solutions like centralized will registries, required transition plans, and expanded penalties for non-compliance could strengthen oversight.</p><h4 dir="ltr">What estate planning documents receive priority custody transfers when a law firm closes?</h4><p dir="ltr">Legal ethics rules list last wills and testaments as the top priority documents during law practice dissolution, followed by other materials impacting inheritance and asset distribution. This includes trusts, deeds, guardianship directives, healthcare instructions, and powers of attorney.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Can heirs sue a dissolved law firm for poor continuity planning around a lost will?</h4><p dir="ltr">Yes, beneficiaries can pursue litigation against a shuttered firm and its partners over asset mismanagement stemming from lack of notification, improper document abandonment, or reckless custody transitions. However, collecting judgments depends on the former firm's remaining malpractice coverage or owner assets.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Who has the final authority to approve the orderly shutdown of a law practice?</h4><p dir="ltr">While recommendations come from state bar associations and rulings originate in regional supreme courts, ultimate jurisdiction depends on the state. In some areas, appellate oversight bodies have final approval, while in others, supreme court administrative boards govern law practice continuity regulations.</p><h4 dir="ltr">How long must successor owners of a purchased law practice retain custody over old client records?</h4><p dir="ltr">Legal ethics rules require maintaining complete client files for at least seven years after the final matter completion or termination of representation, with recommended retention extending even longer. Estate documents like wills often have no closure time frame and must remain stored indefinitely.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Can bar associations penalize law firm partners who fail to comply with practice dissolution guidelines?</h4><p dir="ltr">Yes, state bar ethics committees and attorney discipline boards can sanction, fine, suspend the licenses of, and even disbar partners for continuity planning failures like abandoning client records or wills. However, outcomes depend on the severity of asset mismanagement and degree of public harm.</p><p dir="ltr"><em>The people and situations depicted above are fictional and do not refer to specific individuals or events.This article provides general information only. It is not legal advice tailored for any person, entity, or situation. Consult qualified legal counsel for guidance on your unique circumstances.</em></p>]]></content:encoded>
  245.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/blog/what-happens-to-wills-when-law-firm-closes-do-you-need-to-do-anything</link>
  246.      <pubDate>Fri, 15 Dec 2023 07:24:00 -1100</pubDate>
  247.      <category>Estate Law</category>
  248.    </item>
  249.    <item>
  250.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/blog/can-a-dismissed-divorce-case-be-reopened-learn-more</guid>
  251.      <title><![CDATA[Can a Dismissed Divorce Case be Reopened? (Learn More!)]]></title>
  252.      <description>Yes, a dismissed divorce case can be reopened under certain circumstances. I had to face this difficult situation when my own divorce case was dismissed due to a procedural error. After Consulting with my attorney, I learned I could file a motion to ...</description>
  253.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr">Yes, a dismissed divorce case can be reopened under certain circumstances. I had to face this difficult situation when my own divorce case was dismissed due to a procedural error. After Consulting with my attorney, I learned I could file a motion to reopen the case within a limited timeframe. The court granted my motion, allowing my divorce to proceed. However, this complex legal process varies by state and situation.</p><p dir="ltr">As I dealt with reopening my dismissed divorce case, I gained firsthand experience of this confusing and stressful process. When I received the dismissal notice, I felt overwhelmed with uncertainty and worry about my legal rights. My attorney thoroughly explained the options before us. With her knowledgeable guidance, I explored the local laws and identified grounds to reopen the case. We assembled strong supporting evidence regarding the error that led to dismissal and filed the motion adhering to all procedural rules. </p><p dir="ltr">Throughout this ordeal, I often thought about my friend Jenny who faced a similar crisis when her divorce case stalled due to failure to prosecute. After nearly 2 years separated, Jenny longed for closure so she could move forward. She consulted with an attorney who helped revive the discontinued proceedings. After filing the proper petitions, Jenny’s divorce was reinstated much to her relief. </p><p dir="ltr">Reopening a dismissed divorce case is certainly possible but involves navigating complex legal technicalities. The various rules and obstacles across different states and cases can prove challenging. However, an experienced divorce lawyer can assess your options and guide you to take appropriate steps under the specific circumstances.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Key Takeaways</span></h2><ul><li><p> Dismissed divorce cases can potentially reopen but require navigating complex legal technicalities.</p></li><li><p> Each state sets specific laws and limitations governing reinstating divorce cases that dictate viability.</p></li><li><p> An experienced family law attorney is instrumental for successfully reviving a dismissed divorce case.</p></li><li><p> Strong proof of clear grounds, evidence of responsibility pursuing the case, and adhering to strict deadlines increase the likelihood courts will grant motions to reopen proceedings.</p></li><li><p> Despite valid reasons and compelling documentation, significant barriers exist when trying to reopen a dismissed divorce case.</p></li></ul><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Grounds for Reopening a Dismissed Divorce Case</span></h2><p dir="ltr">There are several potential grounds for reopening a dismissed divorce case. Additional evidence, legal errors, due diligence, and time limitations all play important roles.</p><p dir="ltr">Strong new evidence can convince a judge to reopen the proceedings. My attorney helped gather concrete proof and documentation that exposed the inadvertent mistake that wrongly dismissed my case. We presented this evidence to demonstrate justified grounds for reinstatement.</p><p dir="ltr">Procedural errors and dismissal due to excusable neglect can also allow reinstatement of a case within strict deadlines. My rushed mistake submitting a crucial document led to dismissal. Thankfully, this error met the legal definition of excusable neglect. </p><p dir="ltr">Courts also consider due diligence in pursuing a case. Any long delays or abandonment of a case weaken arguments to reopen it. After Jenny discovered her stalled divorce case, she promptly consulted a lawyer to revive the proceedings before time limitations expired.</p><p dir="ltr">Judges weigh all factors to determine if a party acted responsibly and whether valid reasons exist to reopen a case. Consulting an attorney helps build a compelling fact-based argument within the complex legal framework.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">The Legal Process for Reopening a Dismissed Divorce Case</span></h2><p dir="ltr">The legal process for reopening a dismissed divorce case involves extensive research, legal counsel, and precisely filing court motions. Let’s explore this in detail:</p><h4 dir="ltr">Step 1: Thoroughly Research Local Laws and Rules</h4><ul><li><p> Each state sets specific laws regarding reinstating dismissed cases. Becoming familiar with the statutes in your jurisdiction provides clarity on viable options, legal grounds, deadlines and documentation requirements.</p></li><li><p> Gaining a working knowledge ahead of time allows you to make informed decisions when guiding your attorney how to best proceed.</p></li><li><p> My lawyer explained how our state defined excusable neglect and set a 6 month deadline for filing our motion. This knowledge proved invaluable as we built our persuasive argument rooted in the legal specifics of our case.</p></li></ul><h4 dir="ltr">Step 2: Consult an Experienced Divorce Attorney</h4><ul><li><p> Finding an attorney well-versed in post-judgment modifications is vital for successful reopening a dismissed divorce case.</p></li><li><p> A knowledgeable lawyer can analyze the facts against the legal backdrop and advise if grounds exist to justify revival of your case.</p></li><li><p> My attorney applied her expertise to carefully develop our evidence-based motion to reopen anchored in the technical provisions. Her competent legal skills proved essential to navigate the complexities inherent in this process.</p></li></ul><h4 dir="ltr">Step 3: Precisely File Court Motions</h4><ul><li><p> The attorney files a motion or petition formally requesting the court to reopen the divorce case with supporting documentation.</p></li><li><p> Strict adherence to all legal and procedural details is crucial at this formal legal stage.</p></li><li><p> My lawyer ensured our motion correctly met every requirement as she skillfully filed for reinstatement of my dismissed case.</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr">While this process varies across states and situations, proper execution guided by an experienced attorney offers the best chance to reopen a dismissed divorce case.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Evidence Needed to Reopen a Dismissed Divorce Case</span></h2><p dir="ltr">Courts require compelling evidence when considering overturning the dismissal of a divorce case. We gathered substantial documentation under the guidance of legal counsel to prove justified grounds for reinstatement.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Documentation Proving Legal Grounds</h4><ul><li><p> Concrete evidence is essential to demonstrate your grounds for reopening align with statutory provisions.</p></li><li><p> If a procedural error occurred, include proof such as court transcripts, filings with errors highlighted, and written communication attempting resolution.</p></li><li><p> My attorney gathered extensive documentation exposing each step of the rushed paper error that led to dismissal, proving excusable neglect.</p></li></ul><h4 dir="ltr">Records Exhibiting Due Diligence</h4><ul><li><p> Documentation displaying responsible legal pursuit counters claims of negligence.</p></li><li><p> Provide records showing engagement such as communication logs, hearing attendance, participation in proceedings, and resolution attempts.</p></li><li><p> Meticulous records were vital evidence confirming my diligent participation and immediate efforts to resolve the error internally before involving the court.</p></li></ul><h4 dir="ltr">Other Relevant Supporting Documents</h4><ul><li><p> Additional documents further strengthening your grounds for reinstatement can prove persuasive.</p></li><li><p> In Jenny’s case, her attorney provided health records to account for the delay and demonstrate the stalled status was out of her control.</p></li><li><p> We also submitted proof of legal expenses already incurred in the proceedings as further incentive for the judge to reopen rather than force us to fully refile at substantial cost.</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr">Preparing extensive documentation guided by counsel addressing all pertinent factors lays the foundation for overcoming a dismissal.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Challenges Faced When Reopening a Dismissed Divorce Case</span></h2><p dir="ltr">Despite strong legal grounds and evidence, significant obstacles often arise when pursuing reinstatement of a dismissed divorce case:</p><h4 dir="ltr">Strict Time Limitations</h4><ul><li><p> Each state imposes strict deadlines for filing motions to reopen ranging from a few months to over a year.</p></li><li><p> Missing deadlines sinks any chance regardless of justification. Jenny had less than 1 month left when she discovered the lengthy stall.</p></li><li><p> Closely adhering to timelines proved tense for me as we raced gathering substantial documentation before expiration.</p></li></ul><h4 dir="ltr">Burdensome Legal Expenses</h4><ul><li><p> The costs compound if forced to reopen then fully litigate a divorce case from scratch.</p></li><li><p> My attorney estimated I saved around $5,000 in legal fees alone by reopening rather than refiling.</p></li></ul><h4 dir="ltr">Opposition from Other Party</h4><ul><li><p> Spouses often fiercely oppose reopening to avoid further legal battles or maintain power.</p></li><li><p> Arguments against reinstatement may seem convincing legally, but in reality camouflage underlying motives.</p></li><li><p> My lawyer helped craft counter arguments addressing my spouse’s resistance to overturn the dismissal.</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr">Recognizing barriers strengthens preparation to confront formidable challenges on the legal road to reinstatement.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">FAQs: Reopening a Dismissed Divorce Case</span></h2><p dir="ltr">Here are answers to frequent questions on reopening dismissed divorce cases:</p><h4 dir="ltr">What are the time limitations to reopen a dismissed divorce case?</h4><p dir="ltr">Time limitations vary widely depending on each state's statutes, but often range from 6 months to over 1 year. Deadlines begin either on the date the dismissal was entered or when you received notice. Strict compliance is essential.</p><h4 dir="ltr">What happens if I miss the deadline to reopen a dismissed divorce case?</h4><p dir="ltr">Missing prescribed deadlines extinguishes grounds to reopen a case regardless of justification. No exceptions exist for deadlines so timely action is imperative. Expired opportunities force starting over by refiling a new case. </p><h4 dir="ltr">Can I reopen a denied or withdrawn divorce case?</h4><p dir="ltr">Yes, filing an appeal or motion to reconsider denied petitions or withdrawn proceedings are options within time constraints. Legal advocacy helps navigate technicalities.</p><h4 dir="ltr">What is the first step to reopen a dismissed divorce case?</h4><p dir="ltr">Consult an attorney knowledgeable of local laws and rules to assess options, then precisely file a motion or petition requesting reinstatement on specific legal grounds with supporting proof.</p><h4 dir="ltr">What grounds justify reopening a dismissed divorce case?</h4><p dir="ltr">Justifications vary but often involve additional evidence, legal errors like excusable mistakes, diligence pursuing the case, and acting within stringent deadlines. </p><h4 dir="ltr">What happens after filing motion to reopen a dismissed divorce case?</h4><p dir="ltr">The other party can oppose and court holds a hearing to decide based on presented arguments and evidence whether legal thresholds are satisfied to reopen case.</p><h4 dir="ltr">If a divorce is reopened, does the case pick up where it left off?</h4><p dir="ltr">Yes, after navigating technical reinstatement, revived proceedings resume where stalled rather than starting over. However, some refiling fees or refreshed paperwork may be needed.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Can I represent myself pro se to reopen a dismissed divorce case?</h4><p dir="ltr">Courts allow self-representation but involving an attorney vastly improves success odds for this specialized post-judgment area fraught with legal hurdles.</p><h4 dir="ltr">What chances exist for courts granting a motion to reopen a dismissed divorce case?</h4><p dir="ltr">No guarantees exist but strong grounds, evidence, and legal counsel may convince a judge to exercise discretion in favor of reopening to prevent unnecessary refiling.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Can I appeal if my motion to reopen a dismissed divorce case gets denied?</h4><p dir="ltr">Yes, filing a timely appeal of the denial provides another chance to plead your case before a higher court and potentially obtain reversal of the dismissal.</p><h4 dir="ltr">What happens if I abandon efforts to reopen a dismissed divorce case?</h4><p dir="ltr">Dormant cases eventually close permanently by law. Any future action would require reinitiating by refiling a new case including repayment of all fees.</p><h4 dir="ltr">If my ex-spouse reopened their dismissed divorce case do I need an attorney?</h4><p dir="ltr">Absolutely, as the defending party you need expert guidance responding to reopened proceedings even if previously settled or dismissed. Don’t jeopardize rights acting without legal advice.</p><h4 dir="ltr">How much does it cost to reopen a dismissed divorce case?</h4><p dir="ltr">While reopening avoids refiling expenses, costs still exist such as attorney fees drafting motions, court hearing fees, document expenses, and more depending on case complexity.</p><h4 dir="ltr">What obstacles may arise in efforts to reopen a dismissed divorce case?</h4><p dir="ltr">Barriers include short deadlines, legal opposition, court discretion, added expenses, case complications, outdated info requiring refreshment, and refiling certain documents.</p><h4 dir="ltr">How long does the process take to reopen a dismissed divorce case?</h4><p dir="ltr">Timeframes vary based on state laws and case details, but often span 2-6 months from dismissal notice through holding hearings and the court deciding on a motion to reopen. </p><h4 dir="ltr">Can I change lawyers if I was dissatisfied with my attorney's handling of my dismissed divorce case?</h4><p dir="ltr">Yes, you can switch family law attorneys in reopened cases but new counsel must get up to speed quickly before deadlines expire. Immediate case transfers are best.</p><p dir="ltr"><em>This article presents general information regarding reopening dismissed divorce cases. Laws and processes vary by jurisdiction. The people and situations described are fictional and do not reference actual individuals or events. No legal advice is provided herein. Consult experienced family law counsel regarding your specific circumstances for personalized guidance about reopening a dismissed divorce case.</em></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>]]></content:encoded>
  254.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/blog/can-a-dismissed-divorce-case-be-reopened-learn-more</link>
  255.      <pubDate>Thu, 14 Dec 2023 10:32:00 -1100</pubDate>
  256.      <category>Family Law</category>
  257.    </item>
  258.    <item>
  259.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/blog/what-to-do-with-your-wedding-dress-after-divorce-and-what-not-to-do</guid>
  260.      <title><![CDATA[What to do With Your Wedding Dress After Divorce? (And What Not To Do!)]]></title>
  261.      <description>As I packed up the last box from my marital home, I came across my wedding dress, tucked away in the back of the closet. A wave of sadness, nostalgia, and relief washed over me. With my divorce finalized, I wasn’t sure what to do with this meaningful...</description>
  262.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr">As I packed up the last box from my marital home, I came across my wedding dress, tucked away in the back of the closet. A wave of sadness, nostalgia, and relief washed over me. With my divorce finalized, I wasn’t sure what to do with this meaningful memento from my ended marriage. After speaking with friends and family and researching options online, I decided to carefully preserve my dress.</p><p dir="ltr">Repurposing, preserving, selling, or donating your wedding dress are all common choices women make post-divorce. The decision is highly personal and emotional. Take time to consider what feels right for you. There’s no need to rush as you process this transition.</p><p dir="ltr">I chose to keep my gown to potentially pass down to family one day. However, some women find comfort in repurposing their dress into christening outfits for future children or memory quilts. Others feel relief donating their dress to help brides-to-be in need. If selling the dress could ease financial strain, consignment may be an option.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Key Takeaways</h4><ul><li><p>Take time deciding what to do with your wedding dress after divorce rather than reacting quickly in sadness or anger. Consider preservation, repurposing, donation or resale thoughtfully.</p></li><li><p>If keeping the dress for now, properly store in an acid-free archival box with tissue paper to prevent damage over time.</p></li><li><p>Donating to charities providing gowns for less fortunate brides or military/first responder brides can be meaningful.</p></li><li><p>Consignment sites and bridal resale platforms offer options to recoup costs by selling your gown to brides-to-be on a budget.</p></li></ul><h4 dir="ltr">Why Preserve the Wedding Dress?</h4><p dir="ltr">For me, preserving the wedding dress was the best decision. Despite the divorce, my wedding was a beautiful day surrounded by loved ones. One day, I may feel comfortable gifting my dress to a family member to be worn or displayed. I also love looking through old photos and seeing the intricate beading and lace details. The dress represents the hopeful, happy woman I was on my wedding day. I’m not ready to part with those memories yet.</p><p dir="ltr">To preserve your wedding dress, have it professionally cleaned, then store in an archival box with acid-free tissue paper. Avoid plastic containers or bags, as that could damage the fabrics. Maintain a climate-controlled storage space if possible. Inspect annually for any needed repairs. Be extremely careful handling embellished gowns to prevent snags.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Creative Ways to Repurpose Your Dress</h4><p dir="ltr">For those seeking a fresh start, repurposing the wedding dress can be cathartic. Transforming it into something new helps some women find closure. Popular ideas include:</p><ul><li><p>Memory quilts or pillows: Using fabric and lace swatches, a sewing artist can create a personalized quilt, wall hanging, or decorative pillow.</p></li><li><p>Flower girl dresses: Custom designers may be able to re-fashion your gown into a sweet dress for a niece, goddaughter, or future daughter one day.</p></li><li><p>Jewelry or accessories: Bridal accessories like the headpiece, veil, or fabric flowers can become one-of-a-kind jewelry or hair clips. Some artists even transform dress fabrics into purses or clutches.</p></li><li><p>Christening gown: With some adjustments, a wedding gown may work nicely as a baptismal outfit for future children or grandchildren in the family.</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr">When researching repurposing services, vet options thoroughly and clarify expectations upfront. Handle the dress with care when transporting and inspecting finished products.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><strong><span style="font-size: 20px;">Donate Your Gown to Brides in Need</span></strong></h2><p dir="ltr">Donating your wedding dress enables other brides-to-be to wear a beautiful gown on their special day. Charities like Brides Across America and Brides for a Cause accept donated dresses to grant wishes for military and first responder brides or those facing serious illness or loss. Many local dress donation campaigns also provide gowns to less fortunate brides.</p><p dir="ltr">When preparing your dress for donation, have it professionally cleaned first. Carefully pack in a box with tissue paper to prevent damage. Include any accessories you may want to donate as well.</p><p dir="ltr">Clarify the charity’s dress guidelines before mailing your package. Some only accept dresses less than 5 years old in excellent condition. Others welcome all wearable donated gowns. Checking details upfront ensures your dress makes it into the hands of a grateful bride.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;"><strong>Consign or Sell Your Used Wedding Dress</strong></span></h2><p dir="ltr">If you hope to recoup some cash from your once-worn gown, consignment or resale may be fitting options. The emotional weight of preserving something from your ended marriage may feel too heavy for some women. Selling the dress can provide financial support after an often expensive divorce.</p><p dir="ltr">Popular wedding dress resell sites include StillWhite, Tradesy, and PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com. You’ll market and handle shipping logistics directly with buyers. Local bridal consignment boutiques may also buy used dresses outright or sell on commission.</p><p dir="ltr">To prepare for resale, have your gown professionally cleaned, then photograph it worn properly on a mannequin. Provide detailed descriptions of fabrics, sizes, designers and any damage. Reasonable pricing aligned with condition and designer labels generally yields quicker sales.</p><p dir="ltr">Handle fragile embellished gowns gently to prevent snags or lost beads during packaging and shipping. Some sites offer shipping assistance and insurance to help ensure safe transport.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><strong><span style="font-size: 20px;">What You Should NOT Do With Your Dress</span></strong></h2><p>Avoid hastily destroying or discarding your dress in anger, as you may later regret it. Throwing out, burning, or tearing up the gown provides only momentary catharsis. Similarly, avoid handling intricately beaded or embellished gowns roughly, as that risks damaging the dress. If selling the dress, use discretion when sharing overly emotional backstories that could deter potential buyers. While separating from painful memories may be necessary, losing a cherished memento forever may ultimately deepen the hurt. Consider waiting until raw emotions subside before making any irreversible decisions about your wedding dress post-divorce. Future generations may one day wish to display or even wear this family heirloom.</p><h2 dir="ltr"><span style="font-size: 20px;">Frequently Asked Questions</span></h2><h4 dir="ltr">What are some creative ways to repurpose my wedding dress after divorce?</h4><p dir="ltr">Popular repurposing ideas include using the fabric and lace to create memory quilts, pillows or jewelry. Some designers can re-fashion gowns into flower girl dresses or christening outfits for family members. Bridal accessories like the veil or headpiece also may become unique heirloom jewelry or décor items.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Can I donate just my wedding dress veil or accessories rather than the entire gown?</h4><p dir="ltr">Yes, many charities and donation campaigns welcome accessories only if you wish to preserve or repurpose the gown itself. Consider donating your veil, shoes, jewelry or other bridal accents to help complete the wedding day vision for brides in need.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Does it make financial sense to try selling my used designer wedding gown?</h4><p dir="ltr">It may, especially for more expensive or designer wedding dresses. Top sites for reselling used bridal gowns include StillWhite, Tradesy and PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com. Local consignment boutiques also may purchase used dresses. Take excellent photos of your cleaned, pressed gown worn properly on a mannequin to attract buyers.</p><h4 dir="ltr">What should I know before mailing my donated dress to a charity?</h4><p dir="ltr">Review all dress donation guidelines before packaging up your gown. Some charities only accept dresses in excellent condition or less than 5 years old. Carefully pack with tissue paper in a sturdy box, and consider paying for shipping insurance in case of damages. Following all instructions helps ensure your dress makes it to a future bride in need.</p><h4 dir="ltr">How can I turn my wedding dress into a memory quilt?</h4><p dir="ltr">Specialized sewing artists offer memory quilt services to repurpose wedding gown fabrics, laces or accessories. The intricately designed quilts feature swatches of fabric, photo transfers and other personal custom details. Search for memory quilt makers in your area or on sites like Etsy for this sentimental heirloom option.</p><h4 dir="ltr">What should I know before having my wedding dress professionally cleaned?</h4><p dir="ltr">Clarify upfront that your gown requires specialty dry cleaning methods for delicate fabrics like silk, lace and intricate beading. Avoid getting the dress wet. Make sure to specifically state if your gown has a long train or bustles that require special handling as well. Ask about any repairs needed before considering preservation or repurposing uses.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Is it better to preserve my wedding dress in a box or displayed on a custom bust form?</h4><p dir="ltr">Storing in an archival box with acid-free tissue paper avoids light damage and prevents creasing over time. But for short term display, a custom padded hanger or dress form can allow you to proudly exhibit the gown in your home without risking damage. Limit light exposure, handle carefully, and return to archival storage when not on display.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Can I repurpose just a piece of my wedding dress rather than the entire gown?</h4><p dir="ltr">Yes, you have creative options even if you only want to use a portion of the dress. Some designers can transform the bodice into a flower girl dress or the skirt into a christening gown. Using select fabric swatches or lace details works beautifully for memory quilts and pillows too. Get creative with veils, sashes or jewelry as well.</p><h4 dir="ltr">What precautions should I take when shipping my donated or sold wedding dress?</h4><p dir="ltr">Carefully pack using plenty of tissue paper to prevent snags or lost embellishments. Consider adding extra padding around beaded bodices. Use a sturdy shipping box and reinforced tape. For added protection, purchase shipping insurance to cover any damages, especially for fragile or heavily beaded gowns.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Can I deduct my donated wedding dress as a charitable contribution?</h4><p dir="ltr">In most cases, yes. When you donate items to a qualified 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, you can claim an itemized charitable deduction on your taxes. Be sure to maintain receipts showing details about the specific items donated and the fair market values. Consult your tax advisor to confirm eligibility and documentation requirements.</p><h4 dir="ltr">How much money can I realistically expect to get selling my used wedding dress?</h4><p dir="ltr">Amounts vary widely depending on the original dress cost, designer labels, condition and current resale market trends. Typically, expect to recoup 30-40% of the original price for modern styles in excellent shape. Iconic designer brands and vintage dresses may yield higher returns. List at reasonable pricing aligned with true resale value to attract motivated buyers.</p><h4 dir="ltr">Should I tell buyers the sentimental backstory of my wedding dress when selling it?</h4><p dir="ltr">Use discretion sharing emotional details with buyers. Offering some basic context around why you are selling can personalize the listing. But avoid oversharing hurtful divorce dynamics or other sensitive narratives that could deter buyers looking purely for a pre-owned gown. Focus mainly on dress details and condition. Vet interested buyers to ensure they will preserve any sentimental value.</p><h4 dir="ltr">What steps should I take to preserve my wedding dress for future generations?</h4><p dir="ltr">After having the gown professionally cleaned, store in an acid-free archival box with tissue paper to prevent yellowing. Maintain in a climate and pest controlled environment if possible. Avoid plastic containers or bags. Inspect annually for needed repairs. Minimize handling and keep away from direct sunlight. Consider adding a preservation service’s seal for added protection during long-term storage.</p><p dir="ltr"><em>The people, organizations and situations depicted above are fictional and intended for illustration purposes only. Any resemblance to actual persons or events is purely coincidental. Additionally, professional services mentioned should not be considered endorsements. Conduct your own research before selecting service providers.</em></p>]]></content:encoded>
  263.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/blog/what-to-do-with-your-wedding-dress-after-divorce-and-what-not-to-do</link>
  264.      <pubDate>Thu, 14 Dec 2023 07:09:00 -1100</pubDate>
  265.      <category>Family Law</category>
  266.    </item>
  267.    <item>
  268.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/inside-our-queens-office-%E2%80%93-vasiliou-law-in-action</guid>
  269.      <title><![CDATA[Inside Our Queens Office – Vasiliou Law in Action]]></title>
  270.      <description> Welcome to Vasiliou Law, your trusted legal team in the heart of Astoria, Queens. This photo album gives you an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at our professional office space, private consultation rooms, and dedicated attorneys in action. We serv...</description>
  271.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 12.0px 0.0px; font: 20.0px 'Times New Roman'; -webkit-text-stroke: #000000;" id="isPasted"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-size: 20.00px; font-kerning: none;">Welcome to Vasiliou Law, your trusted legal team in the heart of Astoria, Queens. This photo album gives you an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at our professional office space, private consultation rooms, and dedicated attorneys in action. We serve clients across all five NYC boroughs in criminal defense, immigration law, and family matters. Whether you’re walking in for a consultation or hiring us to represent you in court, we make your legal fight our own.</span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 12.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; -webkit-text-stroke: #000000; min-height: 13.8px;"><br></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 12.0px 0.0px; font: 20.0px 'Times New Roman'; -webkit-text-stroke: #000000;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-size: 20.00px; font-kerning: none;">Our office is conveniently located at 3097 Steinway Street, Suite 301A, Astoria, NY 11103, and we are proud to offer 24/7 availability for urgent legal needs. Browse the photos, get familiar with our environment, and see for yourself why so many New Yorkers trust Vasiliou Law to fight for them.</span></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>]]></content:encoded>
  272.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/inside-our-queens-office-%E2%80%93-vasiliou-law-in-action</link>
  273.      <pubDate>Sat, 31 May 2025 02:05:31 -1100</pubDate>
  274.      <category>Law Firm</category>
  275.    </item>
  276.    <item>
  277.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/online-business-registry</guid>
  278.      <title><![CDATA[Online Business Registry]]></title>
  279.      <description>   Welcome to the Online Business Registry, where we empower your entrepreneurial journey with our comprehensive, secure, and user-friendly Online Business Registry and Incorporation Services. Our services are designed with your needs in mind. From C...</description>
  280.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img src="https://www.legalreach.com/images/member_uploads/member_11670d9ad4d5ceded109f5e38cc63929/84cf1bd1886ada33db7ed6890a26e92c806dfee9.jpg" style="width: 300px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="85e54992 38b0 4b57 b365 ec707462aa5b" width="354" height="372" loading="lazy"></p><p id="isPasted">Welcome to the Online Business Registry, where we empower your entrepreneurial journey with our comprehensive, secure, and user-friendly Online Business Registry and Incorporation Services.</p><p>Our services are designed with your needs in mind. From CRA account registration, corporate seal creation, to minute book preparation, we provide a range of services to help your business stay compliant and organized.</p><p><br></p><p id="isPasted"><strong>Website:</strong></p><p>https://ontario-business.ca/</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Address:</strong></p><p>1270 Central Pkwy W Unit 102, Mississauga, ON, L5C 4P4, Canada</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Phone Number:</strong></p><p>416-628-9349</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Business Hours:</strong></p><p>Monday: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm</p><p>Tuesday: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm</p><p>Wednesday: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm</p><p>Thursday: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm</p><p>Friday: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm</p><p><br></p>]]></content:encoded>
  281.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/online-business-registry</link>
  282.      <pubDate>Fri, 16 May 2025 18:47:19 -1100</pubDate>
  283.    </item>
  284.    <item>
  285.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/meet-our-office</guid>
  286.      <title><![CDATA[Meet Our Office]]></title>
  287.      <description> Benson &amp; Bingham Accident Injury Lawyers, LLC   11441 Allerton Park Drive #100   Las Vegas, NV 89135   Office: (702) 684-6900   Email: info@bensonbingham.com   Website:  https://www.bensonbingham.com/summerlin/ ...</description>
  288.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;" id="isPasted"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:700;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Benson & Bingham Accident Injury Lawyers, LLC</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">11441 Allerton Park Drive #100</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Las Vegas, NV 89135</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Office: (702) 684-6900</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Email: info@bensonbingham.com</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Website: </span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#1155cc;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:underline;-webkit-text-decoration-skip:none;text-decoration-skip-ink:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">https://www.bensonbingham.com/summerlin/</span></p>]]></content:encoded>
  289.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/meet-our-office</link>
  290.      <pubDate>Sat, 26 Apr 2025 09:03:05 -1100</pubDate>
  291.      <category>Law Firm</category>
  292.    </item>
  293.    <item>
  294.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/deldar-legal</guid>
  295.      <title><![CDATA[Deldar Legal]]></title>
  296.      <description>  ...</description>
  297.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img src="https://www.legalreach.com/images/member_uploads/member_68a81a0b04906fbcdd4dbad556da0aef/12b0ebd0ee4d74e296168fe54d1839e0e1978ad1.png" style="width: 300px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="b32b5db8 7ed8 48f0 98b9 70c9e675b9d2" width="640" height="640" loading="lazy"></p>]]></content:encoded>
  298.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/deldar-legal</link>
  299.      <pubDate>Mon, 07 Apr 2025 10:55:51 -1100</pubDate>
  300.      <category>Law Firm</category>
  301.    </item>
  302.    <item>
  303.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/jeff-boston-legal</guid>
  304.      <title><![CDATA[Jeff Boston Legal]]></title>
  305.      <description>  ...</description>
  306.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img src="https://www.legalreach.com/images/member_uploads/member_3c84aa73da550d4a9bc84adf24fce41c/f4acbc00c75eb8eab0aba128e59d3ef8f54729e3.jpg" style="width: 300px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="82e847d4 ad55 4ffc abc4 4920b82d15dd" width="717" height="943" loading="lazy"></p>]]></content:encoded>
  307.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/jeff-boston-legal</link>
  308.      <pubDate>Thu, 13 Mar 2025 04:30:24 -1100</pubDate>
  309.      <category>Law Firm</category>
  310.    </item>
  311.    <item>
  312.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/probate-lawyer-toronto-shaikh-law-firm</guid>
  313.      <title><![CDATA[Probate Lawyer Toronto: Shaikh Law Firm]]></title>
  314.      <description>At Shaikh Law our Toronto-based probate and estate lawyers possess the expertise and experience necessary to navigate the intricacies of estate administration, including the validation of wills, the distribution of assets, the resolution of disputes,...</description>
  315.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p id="isPasted">At Shaikh Law our Toronto-based probate and estate lawyers possess the expertise and experience necessary to navigate the intricacies of estate administration, including the validation of wills, the distribution of assets, the resolution of disputes, and the settlement of obligations. We are committed to providing our clients with the most effective outcomes possible during this challenging time by providing impartial guidance and support.</p><p><strong>Website:</strong></p><p>https://slclawyer.ca/probate-lawyer-toronto/</p><p><strong>Address:</strong></p><p>TD Canada Trust Tower, 161 Bay St. 27th Floor, Toronto, ON, M5J 2S1</p><p><strong>Phone Number:</strong></p><p>(905) 795 7757</p><p>(647) 812 6938</p><p><strong>Fax:</strong></p><p>(905) 795 1271</p><p><strong>Contact Email ID:</strong></p><p>info@slclawyer.ca</p>]]></content:encoded>
  316.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/probate-lawyer-toronto-shaikh-law-firm</link>
  317.      <pubDate>Tue, 18 Feb 2025 19:54:27 -1100</pubDate>
  318.    </item>
  319.    <item>
  320.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/gulf-coast-adoptions</guid>
  321.      <title><![CDATA[Gulf Coast Adoptions]]></title>
  322.      <description> </description>
  323.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div style="font-family: "Open Sans";"></div>]]></content:encoded>
  324.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/gulf-coast-adoptions</link>
  325.      <pubDate>Sun, 08 Sep 2024 18:17:08 -1100</pubDate>
  326.    </item>
  327.    <item>
  328.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/infographics</guid>
  329.      <title><![CDATA[Infographics]]></title>
  330.      <description>These informative infographics show some of our specialties:</description>
  331.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>These informative infographics show some of our specialties:</p>]]></content:encoded>
  332.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/infographics</link>
  333.      <pubDate>Wed, 07 Aug 2024 10:37:55 -1100</pubDate>
  334.      <category>Law Firm</category>
  335.    </item>
  336.    <item>
  337.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/las-vegas-personal-injury-lawyers</guid>
  338.      <title><![CDATA[Las Vegas Personal Injury Lawyers]]></title>
  339.      <description>We understand what makes Nevada law tick. Our team of experienced attorneys has close relationships with the judiciary and medical professionals throughout the State of Nevada.  Benson &amp; Bingham Accident Injury Lawyers, LLC   626 S 10th St   Las ...</description>
  340.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p id="isPasted">We understand what makes Nevada law tick.</p><p>Our team of experienced attorneys has close relationships with the judiciary and medical professionals throughout the State of Nevada.</p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;" id="isPasted"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:700;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Benson & Bingham Accident Injury Lawyers, LLC</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">626 S 10th St</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Las Vegas, NV 89101</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Office: (702) 382-9797</span></p><p dir="ltr" style="line-height:1.38;margin-top:0pt;margin-bottom:0pt;"><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">Website: </span><span style="font-size:11pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#1155cc;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:underline;-webkit-text-decoration-skip:none;text-decoration-skip-ink:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">https://www.bensonbingham.com</span></p>]]></content:encoded>
  341.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/las-vegas-personal-injury-lawyers</link>
  342.      <pubDate>Thu, 14 Mar 2024 05:13:41 -1100</pubDate>
  343.      <category>Law Firm</category>
  344.    </item>
  345.    <item>
  346.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/reno-personal-injury-attorney</guid>
  347.      <title><![CDATA[Reno Personal Injury Attorney]]></title>
  348.      <description>Our Reno Personal Injury Lawyers Have Over 20 Years Of Experience Handling Injury Cases.  Benson &amp; Bingham Accident Injury Lawyers, LLC 1320 E Plumb Lane Ste AReno, NV 89502Office: (775) 600-6000Website: ...</description>
  349.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Our Reno Personal Injury Lawyers Have Over 20 Years Of Experience Handling Injury Cases.</p><p id="isPasted"><strong>Benson & Bingham Accident Injury Lawyers, LLC</strong><br>1320 E Plumb Lane Ste A<br>Reno, NV 89502<br>Office: (775) 600-6000<br>Website: </p>]]></content:encoded>
  350.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/reno-personal-injury-attorney</link>
  351.      <pubDate>Wed, 13 Mar 2024 05:32:34 -1100</pubDate>
  352.      <category>Law Firm</category>
  353.    </item>
  354.    <item>
  355.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/inside-our-queens-office-%E2%80%93-vasiliou-law-in-action</guid>
  356.      <title><![CDATA[Inside Our Queens Office – Vasiliou Law in Action]]></title>
  357.      <description> Welcome to Vasiliou Law, your trusted legal team in the heart of Astoria, Queens. This photo album gives you an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at our professional office space, private consultation rooms, and dedicated attorneys in action. We serv...</description>
  358.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 12.0px 0.0px; font: 20.0px 'Times New Roman'; -webkit-text-stroke: #000000;" id="isPasted"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-size: 20.00px; font-kerning: none;">Welcome to Vasiliou Law, your trusted legal team in the heart of Astoria, Queens. This photo album gives you an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at our professional office space, private consultation rooms, and dedicated attorneys in action. We serve clients across all five NYC boroughs in criminal defense, immigration law, and family matters. Whether you’re walking in for a consultation or hiring us to represent you in court, we make your legal fight our own.</span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 12.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Times New Roman'; -webkit-text-stroke: #000000; min-height: 13.8px;"><br></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 12.0px 0.0px; font: 20.0px 'Times New Roman'; -webkit-text-stroke: #000000;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; font-size: 20.00px; font-kerning: none;">Our office is conveniently located at 3097 Steinway Street, Suite 301A, Astoria, NY 11103, and we are proud to offer 24/7 availability for urgent legal needs. Browse the photos, get familiar with our environment, and see for yourself why so many New Yorkers trust Vasiliou Law to fight for them.</span></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>]]></content:encoded>
  359.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/inside-our-queens-office-%E2%80%93-vasiliou-law-in-action</link>
  360.      <pubDate>Sat, 31 May 2025 02:05:31 -1100</pubDate>
  361.      <category>Law Firm</category>
  362.    </item>
  363.    <item>
  364.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/deldar-legal</guid>
  365.      <title><![CDATA[Deldar Legal]]></title>
  366.      <description>  ...</description>
  367.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img src="https://www.legalreach.com/images/member_uploads/member_68a81a0b04906fbcdd4dbad556da0aef/12b0ebd0ee4d74e296168fe54d1839e0e1978ad1.png" style="width: 300px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="b32b5db8 7ed8 48f0 98b9 70c9e675b9d2" width="640" height="640" loading="lazy"></p>]]></content:encoded>
  368.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/deldar-legal</link>
  369.      <pubDate>Mon, 07 Apr 2025 10:55:51 -1100</pubDate>
  370.      <category>Law Firm</category>
  371.    </item>
  372.    <item>
  373.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/soroka-associates-legal-team</guid>
  374.      <title><![CDATA[Soroka & Associates Legal Team]]></title>
  375.      <description>  ...</description>
  376.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img src="https://www.legalreach.com/images/member_uploads/member_3a1f5e14d870ab30d5a263b8479b5c2c/60fdd438b4f69a41565c6736d58823906fe2d3b5.jpg" style="width: 300px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" width="705" height="600" loading="lazy" alt="Soroka & Associates in Columbus, OH"></p>]]></content:encoded>
  377.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/soroka-associates-legal-team</link>
  378.      <pubDate>Wed, 13 Dec 2023 07:31:44 -1100</pubDate>
  379.      <category>Law Firm</category>
  380.    </item>
  381.    <item>
  382.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/walker-texas-lawyer-%E2%80%93-pasadena-office</guid>
  383.      <title><![CDATA[Walker Texas Lawyer – (Pasadena Office)]]></title>
  384.      <description/>
  385.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[]]></content:encoded>
  386.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/walker-texas-lawyer-%E2%80%93-pasadena-office</link>
  387.      <pubDate>Thu, 23 Mar 2023 06:28:46 -1100</pubDate>
  388.      <category>Business</category>
  389.    </item>
  390.    <item>
  391.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/walker-texas-lawyer-%E2%80%93-principal-office</guid>
  392.      <title><![CDATA[Walker Texas Lawyer – (Principal Office)]]></title>
  393.      <description/>
  394.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[]]></content:encoded>
  395.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/walker-texas-lawyer-%E2%80%93-principal-office</link>
  396.      <pubDate>Thu, 23 Mar 2023 06:25:44 -1100</pubDate>
  397.      <category>Business</category>
  398.    </item>
  399.    <item>
  400.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/jonathan-r-brockman-p-c</guid>
  401.      <title><![CDATA[Jonathan R. Brockman, P.C.]]></title>
  402.      <description/>
  403.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[]]></content:encoded>
  404.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/jonathan-r-brockman-p-c</link>
  405.      <pubDate>Fri, 13 Jan 2023 05:42:07 -1100</pubDate>
  406.      <category>Business</category>
  407.    </item>
  408.    <item>
  409.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/miami-accident-attorney</guid>
  410.      <title><![CDATA[Miami Accident Attorney]]></title>
  411.      <description>Redemption Law, PLLC is a one-of-a-kind personal injury law firm devoted to providing the utmost professionalism and care when dealing with a client’s legal matter. Redemption Law, PLLC is the premier choice when deciding to seek legal representation...</description>
  412.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Redemption Law, PLLC is a one-of-a-kind personal injury law firm devoted to providing the utmost professionalism and care when dealing with a client’s legal matter. Redemption Law, PLLC is the premier choice when deciding to seek legal representation in Miami-Dade, Broward, and throughout the rest of Florida. Our team of legal professionals are devoted to making sure you get the most for your case, which is why if you or a loved one have been harmed due to the negligence of another, look no further and contact our firm, so we can provide you with the competent legal representation you deserve.</p>]]></content:encoded>
  413.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/miami-accident-attorney</link>
  414.      <pubDate>Wed, 22 Jun 2022 03:31:06 -1100</pubDate>
  415.      <category>Business</category>
  416.    </item>
  417.    <item>
  418.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/langorne-divorce</guid>
  419.      <title><![CDATA[Langorne Divorce]]></title>
  420.      <description>   At Petrelli Previtera, we know that an answer is not answer unless it’s not well-thought-out and satisfactory. After all, divorce is a hugely intense action that leaves even the best of us confused and in dire need of answers. We can’t wait to giv...</description>
  421.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2 id="isPasted" style="font-family: gelasio, serif; color: rgb(0, 41, 53) font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;"><br></h2><p style='color: rgb(0, 41, 53) font-family: "open sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;'>At Petrelli Previtera, we know that an answer is not answer unless it’s not well-thought-out and satisfactory. After all, divorce is a hugely intense action that leaves even the best of us confused and in dire need of answers. We can’t wait to give those answers to you.</p><p style='color: rgb(0, 41, 53) font-family: "open sans", sans-serif; font-size: 18px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;'>Don’t start the next phase of your life on the wrong foot when you make wise choices from the get-go. Let our <a href="https://www.petrellilaw.com/langhorne-divorce-lawyer/" title="">Langhorne divorce lawyer</a> hold your hand from here on out. We serve all of Bucks County and clients throughout Mercer, Lehigh, Northampton, and Philadelphia. Protect your family’s interests today and tomorrow—schedule an initial confidential consultation with our firm today.</p>]]></content:encoded>
  422.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/langorne-divorce</link>
  423.      <pubDate>Sat, 09 Apr 2022 14:29:45 -1100</pubDate>
  424.      <category>Family</category>
  425.    </item>
  426.    <item>
  427.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/jack-b-carroll-associates</guid>
  428.      <title><![CDATA[Jack B. Carroll & Associates]]></title>
  429.      <description>A few photos depicting the staff and legal team of Jack B. Carroll &amp; Associates.</description>
  430.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>A few photos depicting the staff and legal team of Jack B. Carroll & Associates.</p>]]></content:encoded>
  431.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/jack-b-carroll-associates</link>
  432.      <pubDate>Mon, 02 Apr 2018 00:17:09 -1100</pubDate>
  433.      <category>Business</category>
  434.    </item>
  435.    <item>
  436.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/hampton-eppes-law-group</guid>
  437.      <title><![CDATA[Hampton Eppes Law Group]]></title>
  438.      <description/>
  439.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[]]></content:encoded>
  440.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/photo-albums/hampton-eppes-law-group</link>
  441.      <pubDate>Sun, 05 Aug 2018 21:00:44 -1100</pubDate>
  442.      <category>Business</category>
  443.    </item>
  444.    <item>
  445.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/sacramento/attorney/the-law-offices-james-l-arrasmith/reviews/684</guid>
  446.      <title><![CDATA[Exceptional representation]]></title>
  447.      <description> James L Arrasmith is a top-notch professional! Excellent service, great communication, and outstanding results. Highly recommended!" 5 stars! </description>
  448.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="background-color: transparent;">James L Arrasmith is a top-notch professional! Excellent service, great communication, and outstanding results. Highly recommended!" 5 stars!</span></p>]]></content:encoded>
  449.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/sacramento/attorney/the-law-offices-james-l-arrasmith/reviews/684</link>
  450.      <pubDate>Thu, 30 Jan 2025 21:44:49 -1100</pubDate>
  451.    </item>
  452.    <item>
  453.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/sacramento/attorney/the-law-offices-james-l-arrasmith/reviews/683</guid>
  454.      <title><![CDATA[Excellent service]]></title>
  455.      <description>If you are looking for a law office that will handle your case with dedication and expertise, this is the office you are looking for, their dedication to my case was exceptional, I highly recommend.</description>
  456.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>If you are looking for a law office that will handle your case with dedication and expertise, this is the office you are looking for, their dedication to my case was exceptional, I highly recommend.</p>]]></content:encoded>
  457.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/sacramento/attorney/the-law-offices-james-l-arrasmith/reviews/683</link>
  458.      <pubDate>Thu, 30 Jan 2025 21:41:12 -1100</pubDate>
  459.    </item>
  460.    <item>
  461.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/sacramento/attorney/the-law-offices-james-l-arrasmith/reviews/680</guid>
  462.      <title><![CDATA[Won my case]]></title>
  463.      <description>Attorney James Arrasmith and his law office went above and beyond on my case. I could not have been happier. I am glad I chose this law office over others that I was considering.       ...</description>
  464.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Attorney James Arrasmith and his law office went above and beyond on my case. I could not have been happier. I am glad I chose this law office over others that I was considering.</p><div style='box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0.9375rem; width: 846.719px; float: right; clear: none; color: rgb(102, 102, 102) font-family: Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; white-space: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255) text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-color: initial;'><div style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 25px 30px; padding: 0px; display: flex; column-gap: 4px;"><div style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><br></div></div></div>]]></content:encoded>
  465.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/sacramento/attorney/the-law-offices-james-l-arrasmith/reviews/680</link>
  466.      <pubDate>Thu, 30 Jan 2025 11:44:43 -1100</pubDate>
  467.    </item>
  468.    <item>
  469.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/sacramento/attorney/the-law-offices-james-l-arrasmith/reviews/679</guid>
  470.      <title><![CDATA[One of the best Attorney!]]></title>
  471.      <description>I had a great experience with The Law Offices of James L. Arrasmith! The team was professional, responsive, and truly cared. I highly recommend them to anyone in need of legal help!</description>
  472.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I had a great experience with The Law Offices of James L. Arrasmith! The team was professional, responsive, and truly cared. I highly recommend them to anyone in need of legal help!</p>]]></content:encoded>
  473.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/sacramento/attorney/the-law-offices-james-l-arrasmith/reviews/679</link>
  474.      <pubDate>Thu, 30 Jan 2025 10:05:31 -1100</pubDate>
  475.    </item>
  476.    <item>
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  478.      <title><![CDATA[Trustworthy and Knowledgeable Attorney]]></title>
  479.      <description>Mr. Arrasmith is the definition of professionalism. His patience, attention to detail, and ability to handle various legal cases make him an excellent choice for anyone seeking legal assistance. A true expert in his field!</description>
  480.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Mr. Arrasmith is the definition of professionalism. His patience, attention to detail, and ability to handle various legal cases make him an excellent choice for anyone seeking legal assistance. A true expert in his field!</p>]]></content:encoded>
  481.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/sacramento/attorney/the-law-offices-james-l-arrasmith/reviews/678</link>
  482.      <pubDate>Thu, 30 Jan 2025 06:27:51 -1100</pubDate>
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  485.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/sacramento/attorney/the-law-offices-james-l-arrasmith/reviews/677</guid>
  486.      <title><![CDATA[A Dedicated and Trustworthy Attorney]]></title>
  487.      <description>Working with Mr. Arrasmith was a great experience. He is professional, knowledgeable, and takes the time to explain everything in a way that’s easy to understand. He was always responsive and made sure I felt confident throughout the process. His att...</description>
  488.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Working with Mr. Arrasmith was a great experience. He is professional, knowledgeable, and takes the time to explain everything in a way that’s easy to understand. He was always responsive and made sure I felt confident throughout the process. His attention to detail and dedication really set him apart. I highly recommend him to anyone in need of a reliable attorney.</p>]]></content:encoded>
  489.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/sacramento/attorney/the-law-offices-james-l-arrasmith/reviews/677</link>
  490.      <pubDate>Thu, 30 Jan 2025 05:48:08 -1100</pubDate>
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  492.    <item>
  493.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/sacramento/attorney/the-law-offices-james-l-arrasmith/reviews/676</guid>
  494.      <title><![CDATA[Amazing services]]></title>
  495.      <description>I can't say enough good things about James. They were incredibly professional, responsive, and always had my best interests at heart. Unlike other attorneys, they genuinely listened and provided personalized advice rather than just treating me l...</description>
  496.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I can't say enough good things about James. They were incredibly professional, responsive, and always had my best interests at heart. Unlike other attorneys, they genuinely listened and provided personalized advice rather than just treating me like another case number. Their courtroom skills and negotiation tactics are top-notch. </p>]]></content:encoded>
  497.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/sacramento/attorney/the-law-offices-james-l-arrasmith/reviews/676</link>
  498.      <pubDate>Thu, 30 Jan 2025 05:05:40 -1100</pubDate>
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  501.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/sacramento/attorney/the-law-offices-james-l-arrasmith/reviews/675</guid>
  502.      <title><![CDATA[best team ever!]]></title>
  503.      <description> If you're in need of an attorney who is knowledgeable, responsive, and genuinely invested in your well-being, look no further than Attorney James Arrasmith. He's truly exceptional!</description>
  504.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p> If you're in need of an attorney who is knowledgeable, responsive, and genuinely invested in your well-being, look no further than Attorney James Arrasmith. He's truly exceptional!</p>]]></content:encoded>
  505.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/sacramento/attorney/the-law-offices-james-l-arrasmith/reviews/675</link>
  506.      <pubDate>Thu, 30 Jan 2025 04:16:48 -1100</pubDate>
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  510.      <title><![CDATA[Admin]]></title>
  511.      <description>I highly recommend The Law Offices of James L. Arrasmith to anyone seeking top-notch legal representation. They truly care about their clients and strive for excellence in every aspect of their practice.   </description>
  512.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I highly recommend The Law Offices of James L. Arrasmith to anyone seeking top-notch legal representation. They truly care about their clients and strive for excellence in every aspect of their practice.</p><p><br></p>]]></content:encoded>
  513.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/sacramento/attorney/the-law-offices-james-l-arrasmith/reviews/674</link>
  514.      <pubDate>Thu, 30 Jan 2025 02:12:45 -1100</pubDate>
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  517.      <guid>https://www.legalreach.com/sacramento/attorney/the-law-offices-james-l-arrasmith/reviews/668</guid>
  518.      <title><![CDATA[I had a problem because someone stole my identity]]></title>
  519.      <description>I had a problem because someone stole my identity, which led me to have many family problems, economic problems and much more, which only hurt me and I was looking for lawyers who could help me and they did not answer my calls. There was even a site ...</description>
  520.      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I had a problem because someone stole my identity, which led me to have many family problems, economic problems and much more, which only hurt me and I was looking for lawyers who could help me and they did not answer my calls. There was even a site called Avvo where I asked a question and James answered it correctly. in a very detailed manner which gave me confidence to be able to hire him. Fortunately, he told me that he had had several similar cases and that he could help me. We took the case and even though I had in mind, it was a difficult case because Some mistakes that I made allowed me to handle the case correctly and now I am living a peaceful life again thanks to James.</p>]]></content:encoded>
  521.      <link>https://www.legalreach.com/sacramento/attorney/the-law-offices-james-l-arrasmith/reviews/668</link>
  522.      <pubDate>Sat, 14 Dec 2024 15:31:07 -1100</pubDate>
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