The recent passage of Proposition 47 has made sweeping changes to the landscape of criminal law. Often when new criminal laws are passed it only affects things which happen in the future. This Proposition not only affects the future, it provides the opportunity for many people change their criminal history. For every crime that has been reduced from a felony to a misdemeanor there is the...
Swanson O’Dell
From The blog
“I Started My Company On With An Online Service. I’m Legally Protected Now, Right?”
One of the biggest misconceptions for small business owners is that starting a corporation gives them legal protection against lawsuits and asset forfeiture. While it is true that an online company can do your incorporation or form an LLC for you, this only creates the company on paper and if it is not followed up on in the proper manner, your corporation can be legally disregarded. In the State...
Why Is It So Hard To Get Insurance To Pay My Claim?
Why Is It So Hard To Get Insurance To Pay My Claim? This is a question that I hear all the time. Many clients have a simple claim, often with clear liability, but they can’t get the insurance adjustor to pay the claim. Other times, the adjustor will refuse to pay the full damages, and will only offer a portion instead. The reason for this is actually really simple. It is money. Insurance...
I am not a citizen of the United States, but I live here. What will happen if I get convicted or plea to a charge of domestic violence?
I am not a citizen of the United States, but I live here. What will happen if I get convicted or plea to a charge of domestic violence? It is not just the NFL that you will get kicked out of if you are convicted of a Domestic Violence offense. If you are not a citizen, you run the risk of being kicked out of the United States. It does not matter if it is a felony or a misdemeanor. The...
Can My Ex Move My Children Out Of Town Or Out Of State Without My Permission?
Move away cases are difficult both for the parties involved and for the judges who have to decide them. How do you decide between having two parents close by and the dictates of things like moving jobs, family changes, remarriage, and changing economic conditions? It’s a difficult subject, and the law has changed in major ways in the past and will probably change again. You should consult with...
Is Electronic Monitoring Available in Criminal Cases In Kern County, California?
The simple answer to the questions is, yes, Kern County has electronic monitoring. The complete answer is much more complicated. If you are facing jail time, is there a way to resolve your matter by being placed on an electronic monitor instead? Depending on the circumstances and the criminal charge, there is the possibility that an experienced defense attorney can arrange for such monitoring....
Are You Carrying The Right Auto Insurance?
Are You Carrying The Right Auto Insurance? Do you have the proper coverage to protect yourself and your loved ones? Many people maintain only the minimum required insurance and think that they are fully covered. However, in the State of California, the minimums are quite low, with a minimum coverage of $15,000.00 per person and $30,000.00 per accident overall coverage. In a case of physical...
Can I Decide Who Will Care For My Children If I Die?
In the State of California, you may execute a Nomination of Guardian form. This form lets the court know who you have selected as guardians. You may select more than one set of guardians in your order of preference. We recommended that you talk in advance with anyone who you select as a guardian so that they are aware and consent to the responsibilities entailed. They also should be aware that...