Actions to Avoid To Make Custody Disputes EASIER

A child custody dispute is no fun for anyone involved. Our divorce lawyers at the Lake of the Ozarks advise you to keep emotions out of it as much as possible and do everything you can to make things run smoothly. We understand that can be one of the hardest things to do when children are involved and may be easier said than done, but we can help. We can be your voice of reason when you are too emotionally involved to think strategically. Our Lake Ozark law firm is here to give you a few actions to avoid to make custody disputes easier. Call Gibbons Law Firm today for your free consultation, we can be reached at (573) 348-2211.

Actions to Avoid To Make Custody Disputes EASIER

Putting your children in a DRAMATIC living situation.
A loving and stable environment can help your children grow and thrive. A divorce can throw a wrench in that, but it's important to work toward providing the best place possible for your children. A child needs consistent love and it's important to show that you are capable of providing that for your kids, especially during a child custody dispute.

Not taking the time to be with your children.
Especially if your family is going through a divorce, it's important to be there for your kids. No matter what they are involved in, show up and show support for your little one. They are going through this new transition, just like you are, and it's vital to be there for them. Whether it's little league or another school activity, make an effort to be involved in your child's life.

Letting your emotions get the best of you.
Stay in control of your anger or aggression at all times. While the stress builds and the pressure of the looming divorce may be weighing down on you, you have to keep your composure. This can help show that you are a stable figure in your child's life and a good influence on them. Don't let a moment of weakness jeopardize your custody dispute.

Speaking poorly about your ex in front of your children.
During a divorce, you are likely not seeing eye to eye with your spouse. Don't let your children feel the negative effects of this. Keep your comments and feelings about your spouse to yourself or vent with another adult. It's inappropriate to force your feelings on your children - after all the other person you are talking about is their parent too!

Gibbons Law Firm is Here For Your Custody Dispute Legal Needs!

Our law firm at the Lake of the Ozarks has helped several clients with their legal needs when it comes to divorce, child custody disputes, etc. We understand how difficult this can be for you emotionally and we are here to help you with whatever legal needs arise. Give us a call today for your free consultation. We can be reached at (573) 348-2211.


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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Prenuptial VS. Postnuptial Agreements – What’s The Difference?

Have you ever been in a serious relationship and wondered what the future looks like for you two? Perhaps you've been married before and it ended badly in divorce, so you are a little reluctant to get married for a second time. Either way, if you are worried about being taken advantage of financially because that has happened to you in a previous marriage, you should know what your options are. Our Lake of the Ozarks law firm is here to give you information on prenuptial and postnuptial agreements. You should know what the differences are between the two if this is something you are considering. If you have questions, you should call Gibbons Law Firm for a free consultation. We can be reached at (573) 348-2211.

Prenuptial Agreements
Prenups, as somewhat stated in the name "pre", come before the marriage takes place. There are many reasons someone may want a prenup because they can protect you financially if the marriage ends in divorce. People may choose to get a prenuptial agreement for any one of the many reasons:

• To protect themselves from their partner's potential debt
• To pass along valuable items upon their death to children from previous marriages
• To clarify how shared property would be divided upon a divorce

The hope is that you never have to reference the prenuptial agreement again because your marriage doesn't end in divorce, but a prenup can act as a form that gives you peace of mind just in case.

Postnuptial Agreements
Postnups, as somewhat stated in the name, "post", can come after you marry someone. You can generally cover most of the topics you would typically cover in a prenup with a postnup but it is only entered into after you are married. Perhaps you changed your minds or your circumstances have changed financially and forced you to consider getting a postnup. Whatever your reasons may be, you should run your questions by an experienced family law attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks before making any hasty decisions.

Prenuptial or Postnuptial Agreement? Gibbons Law Firm is Here for You!

It's important to realize that these types of agreements are not for everyone. Generally, if one of the two of you isn't one hundred percent on board for getting an agreement like this, it probably isn't a good idea and could even potentially cause a problem in your marriage. Either way, we are here for any questions you may have regarding family law. Family law deals with issues arising from marriage and other domestic relationships. The cases give rise to matters that include divorce, legal separation, division of assets and liabilities, spousal support, child custody, child support, and other matters. Other related aspects of family law include adoptions, annulments, guardianships, paternity cases, termination of parental rights, and prenuptial and postnuptial agreements. For your free consultation with an experienced family law attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks, call Gibbons Law Firm 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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National Safe Toys Month

Did you know that the month of December is National Safe Toy and Gift Month? Our personal injury lawyers at the Lake of the Ozarks did. It can be the responsibility of the store selling the merchandise to ensure that they are selling safe products. If you or someone you love has been injured due to an unsafe toy, you may have the grounds for a personal injury case at the Lake of the Ozarks. Call Gibbons Law Firm at (573) 348-2211 for your free consultation today. In the meantime, keep reading for some details on National Safe Toy and Gift Month and a few tips for selecting a safe toy in the store in this week's blog.

Be sure to buy all the safety equipment that is necessary to come with certain toys.
While a toy may seem adventurous and fun, consider the treats that may go along with the item. A skateboard or rollerskates are popular gift items, but many children fall and get injured using this type of toy. If you are giving a gift like this, consider giving a safety item along with it. For example, a helmet and knee pads may compliment a bike well.

Be aware of all the small pieces that come with the toy your buying and the possible choking hazards.
When gifting for a child, consider choking hazards. Small toys and small pieces that can break off can be very dangerous for a kid. Many young children will put anything they find in their mouth. If an item is large enough, it can block their airways, causing them to choke.

Know what the appropriate age is for the toy.
Age suggestions are on almost every toy. Be sure you are looking at these age guidelines when picking out a gift for a child. The toymakers have a reason behind these suggestions and it's safest for everyone involved if they have accurate toys for their specific age. Especially if you aren't familiar with children toys, pay close attention to the ages on toy packages.

Facts and Statistics About National Safe Toy & Gift Month:

• The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has reported about 251,000 toy-related injuries annually. 
• The majority of people with these injuries (72%) are 15 years of age or younger. 
• This epidemic of unsafe toys is very dangerous for kids. 
• Toymakers are working diligently to make toys safer for all. 
• Stricter regulations have been put into place in recent years. 
• Over 19 million toy recalls have been made due to safety concerns. 

Merry Christmas From Gibbons Law!

All of us here at Gibbons Law Firm hope you found this blog enlightening. Be careful and alert of everything when selecting the perfect gift for your children. Remember, if you are in need of an experienced personal injury attorney in Camden County, call Gibbons Law today at (573) 348-2211 for 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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Christmas Events at the Lake of the Ozarks

Christmas is coming up quickly and all of us here at our law firm at the Lake of the Ozarks would like to wish everyone a fun, but safe time at all of the upcoming Christmas events. With that in mind, many have made the mistake of drinking and then getting behind the wheel, whether it be coming home from a holiday party or not, you should never drink and drive. Many car accidents are caused by drunk drivers and if you or a loved one have been injured in a car accident, it's important you call an experienced personal injury attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks. Call Gibbons Law Firm today for your free consultation at 573-348-2211. In the meantime, keep reading for information on a few of the Christmas events coming up at the Lake of the Ozarks.

Source: https://www.funlake.com/lake-holiday-light-parks

Enchanted Village of lights

Nov. 22, 2019 - Jan 2, 2020

Laurie Fairgrounds

269 Fairgrounds Road, Laurie, MO

573-374-8776

Open Nightly 5 pm to 9 pm (10 pm weekends)

St. Patrick's Festival of Lights

Nov 28, 2019 - Jan 1, 2020

Shrine of St. Patrick/ Mother's Shrine

176 Marian Drive, Laurie, MO

573-374-7855

Open Nightly 5 pm to 10 pm

Versailles Unity Circle of Lights

Nov 29, 2019 - Jan 2, 2020

Versailles City Park

Jct Hwy 5 and 52, Versailles, MO

573-378-4634

Open nightly from dusk until midnight

Osage Beach Holiday Lights

Nov 30 - Dec 31, 2019

Osage Beach City Park & Osage Beach Pkwy

950 Hatchery Rd, Osage Beach, MO

573-302-2000

Open nightly

Lake Holiday Light Parks

Nov 20, 2019 - Jan 01, 2020

Various Locations throughout the Lake area

Entire Lake Area

Osage Beach MO 65065

Along with the Lighted drive-thru holiday lights parks, there are other holiday activities going on throughout the Lake of the Ozarks...

• The Lake Area Community Orchestra will perform at several locations around the Lake area. 
• The Main Street Music Hall's annual Christmas Show begins Nov 29 and runs through Dec 22. 
• The Christmas Village at Old Kinderhook will be open every weekend beginning Nov 29th - Dec 23rd.

Have a Fun, But Safe Holiday Season!

Remember, always designate a sober driver if you plan to drink at a holiday party or anywhere for that matter. Take it from our Lake Ozark personal injury attorneys, too many car accidents have happened that were caused by drunk drivers. If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident, you should seek strong, experienced representation as soon as possible. The Lake of the Ozarks personal injury attorney at Gibbons Law Firm has many years of experience that can be put to good use on your side. Give us a call today for 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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Child Custody Tips for The Holiday Season

The holiday season is approaching quickly. As a parent, this holiday can be hard no matter what, but when you're divorced, unneeded drama can make this holiday incredibly stressful in a way that it doesn't need to be. Our experienced lawyers at the Lake of the Ozarks are here to give you a few child custody tips for the holiday season. If you are in the middle of a tough custody battle, please do not hesitate to give our experienced child custody lawyers in Lake Ozark a call today for your free consultation. Gibbons Law Firm can be reached at (573) 348-2211.

Child Custody Tips for The Holiday Season

Share the holiday with your ex.
Do yourself a favor and make planning these holiday parties about your kids. If your kids want to see both of their parents this holiday season and your ex wants to see them too, then just plan two for Christmas, one with you and one with your ex. You can do a Christmas brunch with your kids and allow your ex to have Christmas dinner with them or vice versa.

Get your holiday event priorities in order.
Know ahead of time before you talk to your ex, what events are a MUST-ATTEND with your children. For example, if you have an event such as an annual party your kids attend in the neighborhood you currently live in, mention that before you start to schedule out a holiday week with your ex.

Know yourself and how to control emotional reactions properly.
If you know your ex will likely text you about the holiday plans in a negative way and that it's going to trigger you to react dramatically - make a rule for yourself, something like, no responding right away and that you must take at least three hours to calm yourself before you communicate back in a respectful way. Just because your ex is being disrespectful, doesn't mean you have to be. Set a good example for your kids and take the high road.

Talk to your children.
If your children are old enough to think for themselves and have an opinion on what Christmas should like for them, get their take on it. They may even have valuable insight that can help make your planning process easier.

Get an experienced child custody attorney in Mid-MO involved if needed.
If all else fails after trying to communicate with your ex fairly and settle all issues yourself, call an experienced attorney for advice and the legal help you deserve.

Happy Holidays From Gibbons Law Firm!

No one wants to have trouble with their child custody agreement around the holidays. The legal aspects of child custody can be highly complex and highly sensitive and emotional because of the personal nature of the disputes. An experienced and knowledgeable attorney has the ability to:

• Listen and counsel clients
• Investigate and negotiate cases
• Defuse conflict

..and when needed can litigate a case. It is important to the successful outcome of a family law case, to have an experienced attorney on your side you can trust. Give us a call today for 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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Helpful Tips for PARENTS Getting Divorced

Your little ones may not understand fully what's going on when it comes to your divorce. As a parent, you may feel guilty, but keep in mind that many have been through this and have found a way to still stay a family. Our divorce lawyers at the Lake of the Ozarks are here to give a few helpful tips for parents getting divorced in this week's blog. If you are in need of an experienced divorce attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks, contact Gibbons Law Firm for a free consultation. We can be reached at 573-348-2211.

Helpful Tips for PARENTS Getting Divorced

Control your anger in a healthy way.
It's important that you keep your temper about the divorce in check, especially around your children. You can use healthy ways of channeling your anger that still allow you to express yourself without alarming your children, such as journaling. Writing your feelings down can really help.

Assure your children they are in no way the blame for this divorce.
Children may not understand the whole situation fully. It can be common for children to blame themselves for their parents getting divorced. In their eyes, they have to be the cause and they feel responsible. As their parents, assure them that this is not their fault and that you and your co-parent still love them very much. Make them feel supported and that everything will be ok.

Refrain speaking badly about your ex in front of your children.
Speaking poorly about your ex in front of your child is one of the worst things you can do. You've got to show your kids that while you are getting divorced you can still work together to be the best parents you can be and the parents they deserve.

Communicate with your ex directly.
Don't ask your kids to carry messages back and forth between your ex, that can't be healthy for them and things can get lost in translation. Communicate with your ex fairly and effectively. If you have children with your ex, that's a commitment that should last for your kids whether you get divorced or not.

Allow your child to be heard.
As a child, when your parents get divorced it can feel like your whole world is changing. As a parent, be understanding of that and if your child has questions, hear them out and answer them. Let your child express their feelings and just be supportive.

Seek an Experienced Divorce Lawyer in Your Area for Expert Legal Advice!

Gibbons Law Firm assists clients with all matters related to divorce, from simple legal advice to more. We are committed to providing legal counseling and advice that clients need in such cases. Find out more about how we can assist you by contacting our Firm and making an appointment today for your free consultation. You should know, we serve the entire Lake of the Ozarks area, including: Osage Beach, Lake Ozark, Camdenton, Macks Creek, Richland, Linn Creek, Greenview, Sunrise Beach, Climax Springs, Edwards, Montreal, Eldon, Brumley, Tuscumbia, Laurie, Ivy Bend, Gravois Mills, Stover, Versailles, Syracuse, and St. Elizabeth. Remember, we can be reached at (573) 348-2211.


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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Safe Driving During the Holiday Season

We are just at the beginning of the winter season and knee-deep in the holiday season. Personal injury law applies to claims that arise when a person has sustained injury or damage caused by another party. The cases range from those involving a motor vehicle and boating accidents, business torts, defective products, premises liability, sexual harassment and discrimination, workers’ compensation, and wrongful death.

At Gibbons Law Firm, we know that safe driving can make a huge difference in avoiding unnecessary accidents. Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you spend time out on the open road during the holidays and winter months.

Make Room
There will be more drivers on the road during this time of year, so it’s especially important to give them plenty of space on the road. The faster your car is traveling, the longer it will take for you to slow down, stop, or turn. Avoid tailgating the cars in front of you, and stay alert for nearby drivers who may be turning or merging.

Don’t Drive Intoxicated
Drinking and driving is an obvious hazard. There are warning signs posted all around, organizations make it their primary goal to educate as many people as possible to the dangers, and police officers work many hours to keep intoxicated drivers off of our roads. Alcohol impairment still accounts for about one-third of the traffic deaths in the United States, and 1.8% of adults in Missouri report driving after drinking too much (source: CDC). Don’t be a part of the statistic, find a designated driver and do not drink and drive.

Put Your Phone Down
Texting and driving has been established as a dangerous practice, but that doesn’t keep drivers from continuing to do it. There is an alarming number of drivers who cannot resist the temptation to check their phones, send a quick message, and endanger themselves and the other drivers around them. Ask a passenger to send the message for you, or wait until you have arrived at your destination.

Get Rest
Tired drivers will put themselves and those around them at great risk. Sleep-deprived drivers can be just as likely, if not more likely, than drunk drivers to be in an accident. In fact, some argue that drowsy driving can bee even more risky than distracted driving. If you know a road trip is coming up, be sure to get plenty of sleep the night before.

Before You Hit the Road
Sometimes freak accidents can be avoided by a little preparation ahead of time. Here are a few things you can do before you hit the road to make sure your car is ready for the adventure.

• Check your tire pressure
• Check your fluid levels
• Have your car looked at by a professional

Count on Gibbons Law Firm for Personal Injury Cases at the Lake of the Ozarks

Our entire team wishes you and your family a safe and enjoyable holiday season. If you will be out on the road visiting family or friends, we hope that you enjoy your celebrations and arrive safely. If, however, you suffer an injury at the hands of another driver, our personal injury lawyer in Lake Ozark, MO is ready to defend your rights and help you fight for the compensation you deserve.


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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Your Part in a Personal Injury Suit

A personal injury case is when you have been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence. In many of these cases, you may be able to seek financial compensation for the injuries that you received, expenses, and associated pain and suffering from the assistance of a Lake of the Ozarks personal injury lawyer. Gibbons Law Firm would be honored to be your legal team, and it will be our job to defend your rights and fight for you to receive the maximum compensation that you deserve. Of course, as the client, there are several actions you must take as well. Here are a few things that will be important as you navigate a personal injury case.

Keep Communication Open
One of the most important things you can do while working through your personal injury case is to communicate with your attorney. You will want to communicate frequently and promptly, as many aspects of your case will be time-sensitive. This may not seem like a big deal, but when you return the calls from your attorney, even several days later, it could negatively impact your case and chances of compensation. Position yourself for success in your case by returning communication quickly.

Be Honest
This may seem like standard procedure, but being completely honest about your case is imperative. If you want to have the highest chance of winning your case, we must know everything about it. Avoid angling your story to improve your chances of victory. After you have explained the entire situation, we can work together to formulate a strategy for going forward.

Visit A Medical Practitioner
Did you sustain serious injuries in regards to your personal injury case? You must take the time to get the care that you need. Your health and physical well-being are of the most importance. Getting the medical attention you need will not only provide proof of your injuries, but it will also position you to getting better, and then dedicating important time and attention to your case.

Follow Up On Medical Expenses
The goal of a personal injury lawsuit is to make provide a way to get financial compensation to help cover your medical bills. However, being in the middle of a personal injury suit does not free you from the responsibility of paying your medical bills in the meantime. If your case is won, you will be compensated, but you still need to stay on top of them yourself.

Contact Gibbons Law Firm For Personal Injury Representation

If you have been injured through no fault of your own and are looking for financial representation, schedule your free initial consultation with our personal injury attorney in Osage Beach MO. We have experience representing a wide variety of personal injury cases, including car accidents, boating accidents, work-related injuries, premises liability cases, wrongful death, defective products, and more.

For more information about our personal injury services at the Lake of the Ozarks, visit our website or call our firm at (573) 348-2211. We look forward to serving you.


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 Questions: How Do I Prepare My Estate Plan?

An estate plan is a plan that is made in advance of naming whom you want to receive your belongings after you die. This document can help ease the stress on your family and also provide greater assurance that your assets will not go to someone you do not wish to have them. Because there are many ins and outs to constructing this type of document, you can hire a legal professional at the Lake of the Ozarks to help you solidify your estate plan and be sure that your assets are squared away properly. Here are a few things you will need to prepare your estate plan.

Financial Statements

Gather the financial statements from your investments and bank accounts to your meeting when planning your estate. These documents will help show where your financial assets are located. You can also start thinking about who you intend to take over ownership of these financial accounts in the time leading up to your meeting.

List of Assets & Liabilities

Similar to your financial statements, assets and liability information should be brought to the meeting as well. The list will be helpful when dividing up assets and liabilities to pass on to the person of your choosing.

Life Insurance Policies

Any life insurance information is helpful as you are planning your estate. Bring your policies along with you so that we can accurately assign someone to take ownership.

Who Your Intend to Leave the Estate With

As you decide who to leave your estate with, gather their updated address and other contact information. This can make the transfer of your assets much easier after you pass. The exact name and address of the individuals or institutions that you plan to name in your will are necessary.

Guardianship Information

If you have children who are under the age of 18, it is important to have specific individuals named to take over the guardianship of your children. You may also want to have an alternative guardian in mind as well. When children are involved, it’s best to have someone named as the guardian to avoid a child going into government care.

Inheritance Disbursement

If you will be naming beneficiaries who are minors or young adults, it is helpful to line out the distribution of the trust. This can help reduce the chance of a younger heir getting carried away with an excess of money or assets. You can set up your estate to pay out in smaller amounts over time, instead of a large lump sum, or you can put off the disbursement until your child is an age of your choosing.

Creating an Estate Plan at the Lake of the Ozarks

No matter what your age, station in life, or financial situation, having a will and estate plan is important. This document will help to show exactly who you intend to take over ownership of each of your assets. This can also be a nice gesture towards your friends and family to have this documentation in place before you have passed on. At Gibbons Law Firm, we can help you handle all of your needs for an estate plan. You can contact our law office at the Lake of the Ozarks to schedule your free consultation 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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Safe Driving Tips for The Fall Season

As seasons change, the tactics for safe driving can change a bit as well. Personal injury law at the Lake of the Ozarks applies to claims that arise when a person has sustained injury or damage caused by another party. There is a range of cases that this applies to, but one such is when it involved a motor vehicle. If it is proven that another party’s wrongful conduct caused injury or damage, the injured person may be entitled to monetary compensation from the other party. In situations that involve auto accidents, it’s important to get a refresher on safe driving tips for this season before you head out on the road - it could help you avoid being involved in a personal injury case.

Gibbons Law Firm has a few tips to help keep you safe on the road during the beautiful Autumn season.

Watch For Season Related Road Hazards

There is one prominent thing that sets fall apart from every other season - leaves. Those beautiful falling leaves that the season is so known for can also be one of the hazards of the season as well. When leaves are caught between a wet road and vehicle tires, they can momentarily cause a car to lose its grip on the road. It only takes an instant, but an accident can occur if the driver brakes suddenly without proper traction. Another hazard is that if too many leaves are on the road, it can interfere with a vehicles maneuvering capacity. This can be important because it deals with the car's ability to stand up to the unexpected.

Daylight Savings Season

Daylight Savings Time will end on November 3, 2019, and for many, this is a great time of year. However, your body can take several days to get used to an earlier sunset. Because of this, it can cause many drivers to become drowsy. It’s important to make sure that you are getting plenty of sleep so that your body can safely operate your vehicle, even when you are adjusting to the time change.

Another factor that plays into Daylight Savings Time is that it will get darker earlier. For many that means your commute home could be darker than it was and you may spend more time driving during dark evening hours. Be careful while you are driving, and make sure that your lights are working properly before you will start needing them.

The Holiday Season

As the holidays approach, there will also be more traffic on the roads over the next several months. From Halloween to Christmas, it’s going to be a busy season, but also a time when some drivers may choose to drive intoxicated after a party. Always remain alert while you are on the road, especially during the later evening hours.

There is also another holiday that affects the Ozarks during this time of year. It’s not an official “holiday” but deer season can also impact the hazards on the road this time of year. As the hunting season gears up, the deer will be on the move a lot more. It can be incredibly dangerous to dodge a deer, especially when it throws you into oncoming traffic. Be sure to scan the sides of the road and watch for deer, especially when you are driving early in the morning and later in the evening.

Personal Injury Lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks

If you think you have a personal injury case, it is important that you consult with an experienced attorney to know your legal rights. As a plaintiff in a personal injury case, you will have the burden of proving your case. Consequently, before you hire a personal injury attorney, you may want to consider his or her willingness and ability to take your case to trial, if necessary, and whether he or she has a proven record of obtaining settlements and winning jury trials.

Having successfully tried hundreds of cases, Roger Gibbons has the experience and resources to give you an opportunity for a successful outcome on your personal injury case. Find out more about how we can assist you by contacting our Firm and making an appointment 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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Top 5 Things to Remember When Filing a Divorce

Family law deals with the issues that arise from marriage and domestic relationships. The cases give rise to matters that include divorce, legal separation, division of assets and liabilities, spousal support, child custody, child support, and other matters. This topic is extremely sensitive and highly complex due to the personal nature of the disputes. Because of this, it’s important to hire an experienced and knowledgable divorce attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks who can help you navigate your case. Here are our top five tips to remember when navigating a divorce situation.

#1. Divorces Can Spike After the Holidays

As the holiday season approaches, remember that the divorce rate is typically on the rise after they are over. Here are just a few reasons that divorce rates rise after the holidays are completed: 

• Couples put it off
• Holidays are a time of reflection
• Flaws are revealed through the holiday stress
• Making a last-ditch effort through the holidays

Curious if this may apply to you? Check out our blog to get more insight into the reasons listed above: Common Reasons the Divorce Rates Spikes After the Holidays.

#2. Certain Things Can Impact the Divorce Costs

Personal and professional relationships may be affected by a divorce. Not only does a divorce at the Lake of the Ozarks cause emotional damage, but it can also have a negative impact on your financial stability. Divorces cost money and it's best to find an experienced divorce attorney near the Lake of the Ozarks to look out for your best interested throughout the entire process.

If you are curious about what can affect the costs of divorce, check out a blog we did earlier this year to learn more: 5 Things that Impact the Cost of Divorce.

#3. There Are Certain Actions That Should Be Avoided

Going through the divorce process is a time of high emotion. Along with these emotions can come irrational actions. Your character is being scrutinized while going through a divorce so it's important to keep composure of your actions. As a divorce attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks, we've seen a number of cases take a turn due to the irrational action of one or both of the spouses. These common actions that should be avoided when getting a divorce at the Lake of the Ozarks:

• Believing a battle is the only way to resolve
• Pitting your children against the other parent
• Getting pregnant
• Increasing debt
• Hiding assets

It can be hard to know what to do in a divorce situation, and what actions should be avoided, but a trustworthy lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks can help. You can also refer to our previous content to get more ideas about what to avoid: Actions You Should Avoid When Getting a Divorce.

#4. Divorce Can Be Hard On Your Family

The divorce process can take a toll on everyone involved. While you may think it only affects you and your spouse, your children, friends, and family are all impacted by the process, as well. Our divorce attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks knows how difficult this time can be and we're here to help offer some advice on how to make this process as easy as possible on your loved ones. Other aspects that can ease the burden are:

• Create open lines of communication
• Seek professional help
• Keep your priorities straight

Want to learn more about guiding your family and loved ones through this process? Check out a past blog: Tips to Make Divorce Easier on Your Family

#5. Father’s Have Rights, Too

A huge number of fathers still want to continue to be actively involved in their children’s lives even after the split. Unfortunately, many fathers don’t understand the rights that they have where their children are concerned, and sometimes they can even be overlooked by the courts. Gender bias shouldn’t exist in the courts to favor mothers over fathers, but that’s not always the case.

If you would like to learn more about a Father’s rights in a divorce situation, check out a blog we did recently: Statistics About a Father’s Rights.

Need a Divorce Lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks?

Gibbons Law Firm assists clients with all types of family law cases. We are committed to providing the legal counseling and advice that clients need in such disputes. Find out more about how we can assist you by contacting our Firm and making an appointment today, or schedule a time for a FREE consultation by calling us at 573-348-2211.

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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Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Charges

When you or a loved one is faced with criminal charges, it can be hard to know how to proceed. At Gibbons Law Firm, we handle many different types of criminal defense cases at the Lake of the Ozarks, and we want to provide the persons accused of a crime with the legal protections that they are entitled to under the United States and Missouri Constitutions and the laws of this state. Here are a few frequently asked questions in regards to criminal charges to help you know how to proceed.

Q: When should I call a lawyer?
A: As soon as you become aware that the police are looking for or investigating you would be a good time to give your Lake of the Ozarks lawyer a call. Also, if you believe that you may have committed a crime, that would be an opportune time as well. A lawyer can intervene with the police to either prevent an arrest or if you are going to be arrested, arrange for your surrender at a time and in a manner that can minimize embarrassment to you or your family.

Q: If I am innocent, why do I need a lawyer?
A: Innocent people can get accused of committing crimes as well as guilty ones. Also, in some cases, people who may have committed one crime can occasionally get accused (wrongfully) of committing addition and more serious crimes. Having a lawyer can help you develop a strategy for responding to the charge.

Q: What is a civil violation?
A: This is a charge that is brought by the Prosecuting Attorney, but is civil in nature and not criminal. It can be punishable by a fine or other sanctions.

Q: What is Bail?
A: Bail money or other property that is deposited with the court is used to ensure that the person accused will return to court when they are required to do so. If the defendant returns to court as required, the bail will be returned at the end of the case, even if the defendant is convicted.

Q: What is a felony?
A: A felony is a crime that carries with it a potential sentence of at least one year and one day in prison.

Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks?

Gibbons Law Firm represents clients in all types of felony and misdemeanor cases. Roger Gibbons has successfully tried hundreds of criminal cases of all types. We are committed to providing clients with criminal defense services that will ensure their rights are protected and they are treated fairly. Find out more about how we can assist you by contacting our Firm and making an appointment 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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