5 Tips for a Less Stressful Divorce

A divorce will be a stressful situation for you, your spouse, and your family. Some of the stress can be alleviated with some actions that you can control. The bottom line with your divorce is to limit the amount of conflict and stress during this difficult period of your life. Our family law firm at the Lake of the Ozarks is here for all of your needs when ending a marriage. Find some tips below to help limit the amount of stress during a divorce, courtesy of Gibbons Law Firm. 

1. Allow Open Lines of Communication

Emotions typically run high as a marriage is ending. Try to keep the lines of communication open and honest between you and your soon-to-be ex-spouse. The ability to calmly navigate through the divorce process together can make all the difference in your experience. Making decisions together can help speed along the process tremendously. Clear communication is the key to an easy, successful divorce.

2. Ensure Your Kids are the Top Priority

If children are involved, keep them at the top of the priority list, especially during your divorce proceedings. Try to avoid a situation in which your kids are put in the middle of you and your spouse’s divorce. This can lead to tension for the children and an unpleasant situation for everyone. When it’s appropriate, encourage your kids to have a solid relationship with both parents. Set a good example and help create a less stressful situation for your entire family.

3. Seek Professional Therapy

The emotional toll of a divorce can be difficult to deal with at times. Seek help from a therapist if you need someone to talk to or help you work through the emotional side of the process. Talking things out during therapy can help give you a new perspective on the entire divorce and help you cope with the changes that are taking place. 

4. Keep Your Finances In Check

In addition to the expense of a divorce alone, you will want to think ahead to future expenses that you will now be tackling on your own. Try to avoid racking up debt as you work through the divorce process. Consider creating a new budget for your household to help stay on top of expenses. 

5. Find the Right Divorce Lawyer for YOU

The right lawyer can make all the difference in your divorce. It’s important to find someone who you are comfortable with. Ease the strain of the situation with the right divorce attorney on your side. A supportive and cooperative legal professional can help ease some of the worry involved during your divorce proceedings. 

Making the divorce process less stressful can be a challenging task, but it can be done. Stay positive and focus on the end result when you struggle during the process. By starting with the advice of a professional Lake of the Ozarks lawyer, you can get the divorce process going in a positive direction. If you are preparing for a divorce, consult our divorce attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks today. We are honored to help with your divorce in any way. Remember, the first consultation is always free at our law firm!

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

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Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

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5 Legal Tips for Your Small Business

As a business owner, you want to help protect your small business from legal issues. Protecting your small business from possible legal issues requires some preparation and prevention. As your Lake of the Ozarks law firm, we have provided some tips to help your small business avoid unnecessary time in the court room - we know your time can be better spent focused on your business. Here are some legal tips to help protect your small business at the Lake of the Ozarks.   

1) Keep Good Documentation

As a business owner, it's important to put everything in writing. Document your formal activities like hiring, firing, accounting information, and other internal decisions. It is vital to protect what you've worked so hard to create. Keep good records of anything that happens pertaining to your business, and keep these documents organized. Time is important with legal business issues, so finding the proper documentation quickly is important.

2) Treat All Partners and Customers the Same

Many small business owners conduct business with friends and family. While this is usually beneficial for your business, it’s important to keep it professional. If you have a family member working for you or are doing a project for a close friend, treat the situation like a typical employee or client, and keep your documentation in order. Think ahead for if and when this partnership or working relationship will dissolve or come to an end.  

3) Guard Your Intellectual Property

Safeguard your trade secrets, trademarks, copyrights, and confidentiality. Ensure your intellectual property is properly protected. When hiring a new employee, be sure your documentation is worded accurately and you have a lawyer conduct a review of your confidentiality and non-compete agreements. Much time, money, and effort may be required to protect your business without this proper documentation. 

4) Make Solid Agreements with Employees

Before hiring someone on, communicate clearly your expectations. An employment agreement is a document to establish straightforward expectations and rules for everyone to follow. Company policies are another piece of information that should be included with this agreement. 

5) Seek Out Legal Representation

While you are the expert of your own business, the legal world is a whole different arena. It's important to have a legal professional help you set up these documents to ensure you have your bases are covered. Your lawyer can also keep copies of your legal documents in case you need them! 

Hopefully you’ve learned more about some ways to protect your small business. We can help you implement these legal protections that your business may need. While taking these steps can help keep your business out of legal turmoil, Gibbons Law Firm can help to represent your small business should a situation arise. Remember, your first consultation with our law firm at the Lake of the Ozarks is free! Give us a call today to schedule an appointment to legally represent your small business venture. 

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

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4 Essential Road Trip Safety Tips to Close Out Your Summer

With an increase in road trips and family vacations during the summer months, the roadways are usually busier than other times of the year. Along with the increase of traffic comes the additional chance of being involved in a motor vehicle accident. Safety precautions should be taken by all drivers on the road. As your trusted law firm at the Lake of the Ozarks, we want to help provide you with tips for safer travels this summer. Below are a few pieces of advice when traveling the remainder of the summer months, courtesy of our personal injury lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks.

1) Increase Following Distance

It's recommended to stay back 1 car length for each 10 miles an hour increment you are traveling. If you are going 70 mph on the interstate, try to stay at least 7 car lengths back from the vehicle in front of you. Traveling at a safe distance between vehicles gives you adequate reaction time should another vehicle swerve or come to a sudden stop. Multiple car incidents can often be avoided by increasing the distance between vehicles.

2) Avoid Tractor Trailer Blind Spots

With an extended trailer behind, many diesel trucks have large blind spots as they cruise down the highway. If you do pass a semi truck, use caution and get by them in a timely manner. Also pay attention to their blinkers, as you make a pass. In addition to blind spots while driving, a wide turning radius is another danger of traveling next to semi trucks. In order to navigate a turn, more than one lane may be needed. Try to stay clear of tractor trailer vehicles, as they turn at an intersection.

3) Keep Speed In Check

While traveling to your destination, it may be quite tempting to travel faster than the recommended speed. Whether you are running behind or simply want to get to your vacation destination quickly, try to fight the urge to speed. Increased speed not only leads to a more dangerous roadway for yourself and others, you are more apt to get pulled over for a speeding ticket.

4) Put the Device Down

In 2015, about 391,000 people were injured in a vehicle accident due to distracted driving, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. While taking eyes off the road for a few seconds can seem harmless, the driving conditions in front of you can change in a split second. Designate a texter or leave the phone out of reach, to resist the urge to respond to a text. Also program your GPS before you hit the road on your next trip. This can help you and your family avoid being involved in a motor vehicle accident.

Gibbons Law Firm Can Help

Even when using the utmost caution, roadway accidents to happen. If your are involved in a collision on your next summer trip and are injured, our Lake of the Ozarks personal injury lawyer can help. Our lawyer can help walk you through the necessary steps in your personal injury case. To learn more about how Gibbons Law Firm can help with your situation, call us to schedule your free initial consultation.

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

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The Inside Scoop on Child Custody Resolutions

Divorce can be a very stressful and life altering process. From dividing assets to the emotional toll of ending a marriage, there are a number of important decisions that need to be made. If you have children involved in your divorce, you should know all of the custody options that are available. Whether you have maternal or paternal rights, it’s important to stay informed. If you are involved in a child custody case at the Lake of the Ozarks, we’d like to help you through the process. To learn more about the custody resolution options that may be available for your case, take a look at the information provided below.

Methods to Determine Custody:

With all custody cases, a judge must determine whether the custody arrangement is in the best interests of the children.  This is true whether the parents mutually agree on the custody arrangement or whether the parents present their case to the judge to decide the custody arrangement.  If the parents mutually agree upon a custody arrangement, the court must review and approve the parties’ written custody agreement as being in the children’s best interests.  The most common ways to resolve custody cases are through litigation, mediation or by settlement between the parents.  

Types of Custody:

“Custody” means joint legal custody, sole legal custody, joint physical custody or sole physical custody, or any combination thereof.  Joint legal custody means that the parents share the decision-making rights, responsibilities, and authority relating to the health, education and welfare of the child, and requires that the parents confer with one another in the exercise of decision-making rights, responsibilities, and authority.  

Sole legal custody means that one parent has the decision-making rights, responsibilities, and authority relating to the health, education and welfare of the child.  The parent that has sole legal custody must keep the other parent apprised of decisions/issues related to the health, education and welfare of the child.

Joint physical custody involves an arrangement whereby each of the parents are awarded significant, but not necessarily equal, periods of time during which a child resides with or is under the care and supervision of each of the parents.  Joint physical custody must be shared by the parents in such a way as to assure the child of frequent, continuing and meaningful contact with both parents.  A number of custody arrangements are possible with a joint physical custody arrangement.  The arrangements can include an equal split of time with the children to a situation whereby one parent has custody every other weekend with extended time in the summer.

Sole physical custody of a child can be awarded to one parent.  This generally occurs when one of the parents is deemed unfit to have custody of the child for one or more reasons.

Factors to Determine Who is Awarded Custody:

In Missouri, a judge must determine custody in accordance with the best interests of the child.  When the parties have not reached an agreement on all issues related to custody, the court must consider all relevant factors, including the following:

- The wishes of the child’s parents as to custody and the proposed parenting plan submitted by both parties.

- The needs of the child for a frequent, continuing and meaningful relationship with both parents and the ability and willingness of parents to actively perform their functions as mother and father for the needs of the child.

- The interaction and interrelationship of the child with parents, siblings, and any other person who may significantly affect the child’s best interests.

- Which parent is more likely to allow the child frequent, continuing and meaningful contact with the other parent.

- The child’s adjustment to the child’s home, school, and community.

- The mental and physical health of all individuals involved, including any history of abuse of any individuals involved.

- The intention of either parent to relocate the principal residence of the child.

- The wishes of a child as to the child’s custodian. 

If you find yourself in need of a divorce lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks, we can help you! From explaining the divorce process to knowing your rights for child custody, there are a number of options you should know about. Our Lake of the Ozarks law office is here for all of your child custody needs. From filing for divorce to fighting for your custody rights, Gibbons Law Firm can assist. Give us a call today to schedule your FREE consultation to discuss your child custody case.

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

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10 Legal Terms You Should Know

Do you watch a lot of legal shows on television? You may have heard a number of terms used in these entertainment episodes, but do you know what they actually mean? Our Lake of the Ozarks law firm is here to help you clarify the definitions of some common legal terms. Whether you have a legal case you want to get taken care of or are simply curious what some of these terms represent, this week’s blog can help you out! Take a look below for legal terms and their definitions to learn more.

Legal Term #1: Defendant

The person or commercial being who a complaint is filed against. A defendant is the one being pursued in a case. 

Legal Term #2: Acquittal

When it is decided there is insufficient evidence to support a conviction in a criminal defense case. Some attorneys strive for an acquittal if it does not seem there is enough evidence to charge their client. 

Legal Term #3: Damages

Money payed to the plaintiff, if a defendant is found guilty. This money can be for past damages or expenses or defer future wrongful actions.

Legal Term #4: Liability

The state of being responsible for an action, according to the law. When fault is placed, the individual or business is liable for the wrongful occurrence. 

Legal Term #5: Tort

A wrongful act or infringement of a right leading to civil legal liability. This can also be explained as a negligent or intentional injury to a person or property. 

Legal Term #6: Negligence

Failure to use regular care resulting in damage or injury to something or someone. 

Legal Term #7: Testify

When a witness or other individual is asked to orally present evidence during a trial. Someone who witnessed an incident may be asked to testify, as well as an individual who has been acquainted with the person on trial in the past. 

Legal Term #8: Statute

A law that has passed through legislation and is now official. 

Legal Term #9: Plaintiff

An individual or business who files an official complaint with the court system. The person who initiates a case is known as the plaintiff. 

Legal Term #10: Brief

A statement that is written and submitted in a trial proceeding that goes into detail to represent one side of the legal and factual arguments. This can help all parties get on the same page as to what the story is. 

Hopefully you’ve now learned something new or gotten clarity on a specific term. If you’ve been involved in a legal incident, our experienced attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks is here for you. Whether you’re looking to see if you have a case on your hands or you are being pursued by another party, Gibbons Law Firm can help represent your case. We can provide you with legal counseling through the entire process. From clear communication methods to legal advice for your case, we would be honored to help with your legal matters. 

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

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Legal Dangers of Texting & Driving

With the growing popularity in smart phones comes an increase in using such devices all hours of the day… including the time spent behind the wheel. Whether it’s to send a quick email or check a new text message that came in, many cell phone owners are using their device when driving. While it may seem like you aren’t looking away from the road for very long, many dangers can arise in just seconds on the roadways.

While the state of Missouri only has a ban on texting and driving for drivers under the age of 21, there are still legal dangers that can arise from distracted driving. If you were to cause an accident and/or injury someone due to negligent or distracted driving, you could be facing steep consequences for your actions. Our Lake of the Ozarks law firm can help represent your case, whether you have been at fault or suffered from the negligence of a distracted driver.

Texting & Driving Statistics

- 660,000 is the approximate number of drivers who use their cell phones during the daylight hours.
- The average time the eyes leave the road to read a text message is 5 seconds – that’s about 100 yards if you are traveling 55 miles per hour.
- A driver is 23 times MORE likely to be involved in an accident if they text while operating a vehicle.
- Teenage drivers who text spend about 10% of their drive time OUTSIDE their lane on the roadway.
- 1/5 drivers admit to surfing the web, while driving a vehicle.

Why Is Texting SO Distracting?

Texting takes visual, cognitive, AND manual attention – all at the same time. When you mix this combination with operating a vehicle, the eyes, mind, and hands cannot focus on both at the same time. While it may only seem that a driver looks away for a second to read a text, driving conditions can change in less than a second – delaying the driver’s reaction.

Legal Dangers You May Face

Although there is no law banning texting and driving for adults over the age of 21 in the state of Missouri, there are plenty of legal dangers for partaking in such a dangerous activity. If someone is injured due to your negligence while operating a vehicle, you may face a wide range of penalties – including the risk of being sued. On the opposite side of things, if you are injured due to someone else texting and driving, it’s important to know your rights. A lawyer who specializes in personal injury can help represent your claim, if you’re involved in a texting and driving situation.

Seek Legal Representation

Our law firm at the Lake of the Ozarks, encourages you to put the phone down while operating a motor vehicle. Distracted driving can present a number of legal dangers. If you are unfortunately involved with a texting and driving accident, Gibbons Law Firm can help you present your case. As a personal injury lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks, our lawyer can help to guide you through the legal process. For a FREE consultation for your personal injury case in mid-Missouri, set up an appointment with us today!

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

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Let Gibbons Law Firm Help With Your Criminal Defense Case

A criminal offense often carries the potential of a lengthy incarceration, heavy fines, and other penalties. A qualified and experienced attorney can help lead to a favorable outcome for your criminal defense case at the Lake of the Ozarks. To help avoid hefty penalties, take a look below for ways we can work to represent your case!

As citizens of the United States of America, we have a basic responsibility to avoid inflicting harm on our fellow Americans. Unfortunately, not all Americans uphold this responsibility. Even if the harm was inflicted unintentionally through oversight or negligence, the person responsible may be held accountable by being required to provide financial compensation or potentially serve some time in jail. If the harm was inflicted intentionally, the consequences become much more severe. 

Providing Well-Balanced Legal Advice

We are here to help YOU! We endeavor to provide sound legal advice for all of our clients. Rest assured your best interest in is mind when we offer an opinion about your case from a legal perspective.

We have Years of Experience

With many years of experience as an attorney in Missouri and having handled hundreds of criminal defense cases of all types, it's the goal of our law office to help represent your case. Our law firm wants to help you obtain the outcome you deserve with your criminal defense case. 

We have Comprehensive Knowledge of the Law

With knowledge when it comes to criminal defense cases, Gibbons Law Firm can help come up with the right defense for your case. Whether it’s reasonable doubt, having an alibi, self-defense, or other arguments, we endeavor to provide sound legal advice to present your case.

Upfront and Clear Communication

Prompt communication is of top priority at Gibbons Law Firm. We work hard to ensure our clients are kept in the loop through a number of communication techniques. When we have client engagements we strive to provide sound legal advice, answer your questions, and help to guide you through difficult legal situations. You can rest assured we will communicate with you clearly throughout the entire process. We want you to be aware of what your options are and the best ways to move forward with defending your case.

Hopefully you've learned more about how we can help represent your criminal defense case. You can rest assured that we will use our experience and knowledge to work toward defending your case. Here at our law firm at the Lake of the Ozarks, we're committed to providing clients with criminal defense services. Give Gibbons Law Firm a call today to schedule your free consultation!

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

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No attorney-client relationship is created by the publication of this blog.