Matters That May Delay Your Child Custody Case

Any time you are going through a divorce with children, emotions are likely running high. It can be a tough time. There's no doubt about it. However, there are certain things you can try to avoid in order to make your case run a little more smoothly. Our divorce lawyers at the Lake of the Ozarks are here to give you a few examples of matters that may delay your child custody case in this week's blog. If you are about to embark on a tough child custody battle, please call our Law Firm in Lake Ozark today. Gibbons Law Firm has the experience and skill to help you in your time of need. We can be reached at 573-348-2211. 

Matters That May Delay Your Child Custody Case

With many child custody cases, there are A LOT of people involved. When you have so many people involved in a case like this, that may leave room for delays in case completion. For example, some cases may require that you coordinate with a:

Guardian ad Litem (GAL)

This is someone the court may appoint to gather information in regard to what is in the best interest of the child or children. This may require SEVERAL visits with the child. Any time you schedule a visit with a child, as a parent you likely know, that can be challenging to coordinate. They may have extra-curricular activities, visits with your ex, or other conflicts that may make scheduling the GAL visit tough and tiresome. However, in some cases, it has to be done.

Counselor 

In some case cases, a counselor may be appointed to work with you (the parents) and the child. They may want to work with you on co-parenting with your ex and give you tips and guidelines on how to coordinate with your ex in the best interest of your child. Again, this leads us to our next point, schedule conflicts may delay a child custody case.

Schedule Conflicts

As a parent, you KNOW how busy life can be. Working full-time to support your child keeps you busy. If you stay at home to care for your young child while your co-parent works, that is a full-time job too. Either way, you likely have a BUSY life, and scheduling legal visits like we described above can be challenging and sometimes delay your case. Remember, Gibbons Law Firm is here to help.

Need An Experienced Child Custody Lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks? We Are Here For You.

We know how difficult and emotional these sorts of cases can get, which is why we handle them with complete understanding and zero judgment. Our attorneys have YEARS of experience and have helped MANY clients through hard times such as these. We can help you too. If you are in the middle of a tough divorce with children, remember Gibbons Law Firm is here for you. Give us a call today. We can be reached at the phone number listed below. Your first consultation is free. Please follow us on our social media channels listed below to stay informed on what we are doing on a weekly basis here at Gibbons Law.

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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Motorcycle Safety Tips For Motorsports Awareness Month

Did you know that August is Motorsports Awareness Month? Motorcycle Safety is truly important and should be discussed more often due to the MANY motorcycle accidents that happen each year. Our personal injury attorneys at the Lake of the Ozarks want to give you some motorcycle safety tips in this week's blog. If you or someone you care about has been injured in a motorcycle accident caused by a negligent driver, please call our Law Firm at the Lake of the Ozarks today. Your first consultation is free and we can be reached at (573) 348-2211.

Pay attention at all times!
You should always be alert while driving a motorcycle. Stay within the speed limit and come to a complete stop at all intersections. Also, research local traffic laws before traveling out of the state.

Never assume someone can see you and be mindful of blind spots.
When on a motorcycle you may be harder to see than a full-sized vehicle. Don't ever assume another driver can see you. Stay on the defense when riding your bike. Think about the blind spot on vehicles as you are passing or pulling out.

Educate yourself and get comfortable on your motorcycle.
If you're uncomfortable while driving your motorcycle, there's likely a valid reason for that. An educational course is readily available for motorcycle riders. It's important to be comfortable on your bike and know how to properly operate the vehicle. Sharpen your techniques and practice driving your motorcycle.

Only drive your motorcycle while you're sober.
Like any motor vehicle, it's important to stay awake and drive sober. You want to ensure your reaction time is as short as possible when riding your bike. Alcohol or being tired can damper your ability to react to a situation on the road. Ensure you are in a safe condition to properly operate your bike.

It's important that you wear the proper protection.
Protective clothing is important for all riders, but there is about to be a change to the Missouri Helmet Law that you should be aware of. It's currently a state law to wear a helmet in the state of Missouri, but starting August 28th, anyone 26 years of age or older is no longer legally required to wear a helmet if they possess health insurance. Sunglasses or other eyewear can help you see better, as well. Leather clothing can protect your skin from the harsh wind and other factors. Consider buying clothing with extra reflective features to help increase visibility to other drivers.

Be Safe and Remember Our Personal Injury Attorneys Are Here For You!

No one wants to see someone they love get injured in a motorcycle accident and it happens way too often. Negligent drivers are out there and if you know someone who has been injured in a motorcycle accident and has medical bills stacking up, please have them give us a call. Our personal injury attorneys in Mid-Missouri have the experience and skills to help you get the compensation you deserve. Please call Gibbons Law Firm today at (573) 348-2211.


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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Reasons To Choose Gibbons Law Firm For Your Legal Needs

You need to be able to count on whoever you choose as your lawyer! This is an important job and this person is likely helping you with a very important legal matter. You should be able to count on your lawyer to:

• Return your phone calls in a timely manner
• Answer your questions honestly
• Be proactive in helping you win your case

...and so much more. Our law firm in Lake Ozark can do these things for you and be there for you for whatever your legal needs may be. Keep reading this week's blog for a few reasons to choose Gibbons Law Firm for your legal needs. For an experienced attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks, you can trust, call Gibbons Law Firm at 573-348-2211 for your free consultation today.

We value COMMUNICATION here.

Gibbons Law Firm is committed to:

• Prompt communications with clients during engagements
• Consistently providing sound legal advice
• Answering questions and guiding clients through difficult legal situations

As an experienced lawyer and litigator, Roger Gibbons’ clients benefit from legal advice that is well-balanced and based on comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the law in many areas.

You can count on us to be RELIABLE like many others have before you.
We have had the pleasure of helping several clients over the years with their legal issues. We've represented numerous clients in a variety of civil, criminal, and probate cases. Our diverse client base includes:

• Individuals
• Employees
• Builders
• Contractors 
• Homeowners
• Lenders
• Small businesses
• Subcontractors
• Municipalities

...and other government entities. We have assisted clients with their legal needs in the areas of accident/personal injury law, appellate practice, business, and corporate law, child custody matters, construction law, contracts, criminal defense, divorce and family law, employment law, landlord-tenant, land use and zoning, real estate laws, wills and probate, and workers’ compensation.

Use our many years of LEGAL EXPERIENCE to help you win your case.

Roger Gibbons has been engaged in private practice since 1992. In addition to his private practice, he has worked for over a decade as a prosecuting attorney for the State of Missouri successfully prosecuting thousands of criminal cases of all types. In that position, he worked hard to hold persons accountable for their conduct, to protect victims and their rights, and to keep communities safe. Roger Gibbons will work hard to instill your trust in him and to obtain the outcome that you deserve.

Gibbons Law Firm is Here For Your Legal Needs!

All of us here at Gibbons Law Firm hope that this blog found you safe and healthy. We understand that these are uncertain times and it's important to know what IS certain - like our Lake of the Ozarks law firm can CERTAINLY be there for you when you need an experienced lawyer. Whether you have a personal injury, criminal defense, or family law case - we can help. Call today for your free consultation. We can be reached at the phone number listed below. You can also follow us on our social media channels listed below to stay up to date on our latest announcements.

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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Legal Questions: Do I Have to Consent to a Search?

There are many reasons why you may be seeing those flashing lights in your review mirror - going over the speed limit, not having your headlights on, or even erratic driving. For many individuals getting pulled over will result in an officer asking for your driver’s license and proof of insurance, and afterward, they will give you a warning or a ticket and you’ll be on your way. For some, however, the officer may investigate further. The topic is rather complicated, but a probable cause can definitely play a role in the situation. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

What is Probable Cause?

The definition of probable cause is when there is a reasonable basis for believing that a crime may have been committed or when evidence of the crime is present in the place to be searched.

This can be a tricky notion, but remember that having a lawyer to represent you after the fact can be extremely important. In some cases, if the officer searches your vehicle without probable cause, there’s a chance that anything found could be dismissed in court - but this is all dependent on the situation and having a Missouri lawyer representing you is crucial.

What Counts as Probable Cause?

This is actually a complicated legal matter that is debated among legal professionals. In many cases, it’s going to be up to the officer in question - as it could only require a smell or sight of contraband.

Just remember that an officer does not need a warrant to search a person’s car because there is an automobile exception. Even if an officer has probable cause, they may still ask permission so that they won’t have to handle the search being challenged in court later.

Right to Refuse

The 4th Amendment does provide you the right to politely refuse a search. This situation will be up to you, though. If you feel that they do not have probable cause, and an officer requests permission to look in your car, you have the right to refuse. 

Remain Respectful

If you are flagged down by an officer, you should pull over safely and as fast as possible. As with any case involving someone in charge, remain respectful, polite, and calm.

 

Do you have questions about how to handle this situation? Or perhaps you have had your vehicle searched without permission? Or maybe you consented to a search because you were uncertain about the appropriate response and you need legal protection at the Lake of the Ozarks. Whatever your reason, Gibbons Law Firm offers FREE consultations. Give us a call at 573-348-2211, we would be glad to talk to you about your situation and help you move forward with legal protection.

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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Safety Tips for Motorcycle Awareness Months

May is Motorcycle Awareness Month. With the beautiful spring weather we are experiencing, you may notice an increase of bikers on the roadways. With more and more motorcyclists out and about, there is a higher risk of an accident involving a bike. Our Lake of the Ozarks law firm knows how important it is to remain safe on the roadway when motorcyclists are around. Below you can find some helpful motorcycle safety tips for both the rider and driver!

For the Rider:

Follow Traffic Laws - Pay attention to traffic laws that apply to all vehicles - motorcycles included. Stay within the speed limit and come to a complete stop at all intersections. Also, research local traffic laws before traveling out of the state.

Wear the Right Gear - Protective clothing is important for all rides. It's a state law to wear a helmet in the state of Missouri. Sunglasses or other eyewear can help you see better, as well. Leather clothing can protect your skin from the harsh wind and other factors. Consider buying clothing with extra reflective features to help increase visibility to other drivers.

Complete a Training Program - An educational course is readily available for motorcycle riders. It's important to be comfortable on your bike and know how to properly operate the vehicle. Sharpen your techniques and practice driving your motorcycle.

Stay Alert - Like any motor vehicle, it's important to stay awake and drive sober. You want to ensure your reaction time is as sort as possible when riding your bike. Alcohol or being tired can damper your ability to react to a situation on the road. Ensure you are in a safe condition to properly operate your bike.

Practice Defensive Driving - When on a motorcycle you may be harder to see than a full-sized vehicle. Don't ever assume another driver can see you. Stay on the defense when riding your bike. Think about the blind spot on vehicles as you are passing or pulling out.

For Other Drivers:

Pay Attention when Driving - Especially during the warmer months, keep your eyes on the lookout for motorcycles on the roadway. It's important to keep tabs on all vehicles around you on the road. Keep your full attention on driving and avoid distractions that may take your eyes and mind away from the road.

Look Twice - Before pulling out or switching lanes, take a double check of the vehicles on the road. Ensure no other vehicle is in your blind spot before making a move.

Think About Stopping Distance - While stopping distance for motorcycles is typically the same as full-sized vehicles, the road conditions may make it harder for a bike to come to a quick stop. Debris on the road and rain can put a damper on the stopping time of a motorcycle.

Now that you know some of these safety tips for motorcycle safety awareness, you're ready to help create a safer environment on the roadways. If you are involved in an accident with a motorcycle, be sure to contact our lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks. Remember, your first consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free. We look forward to representing your personal injury case at the Lake of the Ozarks.

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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Reasons to Sign a Prenuptial Agreement

Marriage is an exciting time for many couples. It's a legal contract between two parties, creating a union of the two. While there are many tasks to be completed when planning a wedding, a prenuptial agreement may be far from your list of things to do - but it shouldn't be. A prenup - or prenuptial agreement - addresses the financial situation should the marriage dissolve. It's not a fun thing to think or talk about as your marriage is just getting started - but it is a helpful document, should you need it. Our Lake of the Ozarks law firm can help you and your future spouse put together a prenup so you can move forward with confidence. Take a look below to learn just a few of the reasons why a prenuptial agreement may be right for you and your marriage circumstances.

One of you has more money.

If you or your partner has substantially more money than the other, a prenup can help to protect your assets. This can also help ensure that someone is not marrying you for your money, and for who you are. It's important to protect your assets when you enter into a marriage.

Your or your spouse plan to stop working.

If you plan to quit your job to start raising children, it can impact your income in a major way. A prenup can help to ensure that the financial burden of raising the children is shared fairly by both partners.

Someone has a substantial amount of debt.

When you marry someone, you can be partially responsible for their financial debt. If your marriage ends, you may be stuck with part of this debt load, even if you did not help accrue it. A prenup can help to make sure you are not burdened with debt that is not yours.

The divorce rate.

About half of all marriages end up in divorce. This is a staggering statistic and it's best to be prepared for the future. A prenuptial agreement can help to protect you and your assets, as well as your spouses', should your marriage end in divorce.

You are a business owner.

Your ex-spouse could end up owning part of your business if a prenup is not signed when you get married. Help to protect your business and help to prevent a spouse from becoming a part owner in your business.

This is the second marriage.

Children, support obligations, and a home with a previous spouse can all affect your second marriage. It's important to protect your assets and help to make sure your financial burdens stay your own if your next marriage does not work out.

Help avoid a stressful situation if you do divorce.

A prenup can have all assets, debts, and other factors split up before you even enter into marriage. This can help to fairly disperse all belongings and make the divorce process less-stressful.

It's a smart move.

To best protect you and your spouses' assets, a prenuptial agreement is the way to go. For a financially smart move, consider having you and your partner both sign a prenup, before you get married.

Now that you've learned about some of the reasons why a prenuptial agreement may be right for you and your future spouse, you are ready to take action. If you want to put together a prenup, it's important to discuss this with your soon-to-be husband or wife. Don't spring it on them at the last minute. Have an open and honest discussion about the reasoning behind your wish to sign a prenup. This can help to show why this can be of benefit to both parties and get you both on board for the agreement. If you are ready to get a prenup put together, contact Gibbons Law Firm today. We can help put together an agreement for you and your future spouse. Remember, your first consultation with our family lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks is always FREE!

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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5 Interesting Facts for Tenants & Landlords

Owning a rental property has the opportunity to create a steady income. This is a popular way to increase the amount of money that comes in every month. If you currently own a rental property or are thinking about getting into the business, there are important legal facts that go hand-in-hand. Our Lake of the Ozarks law firm is here for all of your landlord needs. From contracts to evictions, Gibbons Law Firm can assist you. Take a look below to learn a little more about tenant evictions and how they can legally be accomplished.

Fact #1:
A landlord may not evict a tenant without a court order. Once the eviction process is started, a tenant will receive notice that an eviction lawsuit has been filed.

Fact #2:
Landlords are allowed to remove abandoned personal items once they have given notice and complied with these requirements.

Fact #3:
A landlord can double the amount of rent if the tenant allows another person to take over the premises without permission from the landlord.

Fact #4:
The number of occupants can be limited to two per bedroom (with the exception of a baby born during the lease period) by the landlord.

Fact #5:
The landlord is responsible for regular wear and tear, as well as damage caused by natural forces like the weather. A tenant is responsible for making repairs that are caused by their own negligence.

While many landlord-tenant relationships are successful, it does not always end up in a positive situation. Disputes do occur in the renting process.  Sometimes a dispute can be avoided if both parties are aware of their rights and duties. A brief recap can be found below:

Tenant:

Pay rent on time.

Use reasonable care and not damage property.

Properly dispose of garbage.

Refrain from taking on additional occupants or subleasing without the landlord’s written permission.

Landlord:

Make property habitable before tenants move in.

Make and pay for repairs due to ordinary wear and tear.

Refrain from turning off a tenant’s water, electricity or gas.

Provide written a notice to tenants when ownership of the property is transferred to a new landlord.

Not unlawfully discriminate.

The best way to avoid an issue in the future is for both parties to document all communication and agreements well. 

Now that you know a little more about tenant and landlord rights, you can be prepared as a landlord. If you plan to rent your property or already do, our tenant-landlord lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks can help represent you. Whether you need to put together a solid lease agreement for future tenants or need to take legal action, Gibbons Law Firm is here for you!

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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Top Benefits of a Will

Some may argue that a will is one of the most important things you can do for your family. A will provides legal protection for your assets and your family. You can have a say in who receives what assets when you are gone by putting a will together now. Our Lake of the Ozarks law firm knows how important it is to have your wishes lined out. Take a look below to find some of the top benefits of having a will in place.

1. Have Your Wishes Known

It's important that everyone involved knows exactly what your wishes for your estate are. This can help to avoid arguments amongst family members. It will offer comfort for your family to know exactly what your wishes are and to help carry them out. A will is an ideal place to document any of your wishes for when you pass.

2. Distribute Your Estate

When planning your will, you can designate who you want to take over specific assets. Whether it's your home, car, accounts, or family heirlooms, it's a great opportunity to distribute your belongings to your friends and family. A will can help ensure your wishes are being carried out and that your estate is going where you want and not just divied up.

3. Establish Care for Your Children

If you have children under the age of 18, you can designate guardianship to an individual or couple. This can help make sure your kids are being cared for by exactly who you wish to care for them. You can also leave specific instructions for any financial help you want to go along with the person who will care for your kids.

4. Appoint Executors of Your Will

While it may be a difficult choice, you can appoint someone to be in charge of distributing your assets. This is known as an executor or personal representative, and this individual will ensure that your will is known and that all items are distributed as you have wished. This person will also be in charge of paying off debt, bills, and other financial items that will need to take place.

5. Flexibility of Change

The beauty of a will is that it is a flexible document. Changes can be made over time as your wishes change. Whether you've had a major life change or you simply think someone else would be a better fit for a certain asset, you can make changes to your will, as you see fit.

Now that you know some of the benefits of a will, you are ready to take action. Give your family the gift of knowing what your wishes are when the time comes. It's a thoughtful way to take some of the burdens off of those closest to you. Contact Gibbons Law Firm today to establish a will so your wishes are known. We look forward to helping you put together your will at the Lake of the Ozarks!

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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What You Need to Prepare for Your Estate Plan

A plan made in advance naming whom you want to receive the things you own after you die is known as an estate plan. This type of document can relieve a lot of stress on your family and help to avoid your assets from going to someone you do not wish to have them. A legal professional can help solidify your estate plan to ensure your assets are squared away. Our Lake of the Ozarks law firm has provided a list of some information you should have on hand, before preparing your estate plan.

Financial Statements

Any financial statements from your investments and bank accounts should be brought with you to plan your estate. These documents can help show where your financial assets are located. It's also a good idea to have an idea of who you intend to take over ownership of these financial accounts in mind.

List of Assets & Liabilities

Like your financial statements, assets and liability information should be brought to the meeting, as well. You can also decide who will take over these responsibilities upon your passing. This list can be helpful when dividing up assets and liabilities to pass on.

Life Insurance Policies

As you are planning your estate, any life insurance policy information is helpful. Bring your policies along with you in order to accurately assign someone to take ownership.

Who You Intend to Leave Estate With

Updated addresses and other contact information for the individual(s) you intend to leave your estate is needed. This can make the transfer of your assets much easier after you pass. The exact name and addresses for individuals or institutions that you plan to name in your will are necessary.

Information for Guardianship

If you have children under the age of 18, it's important to have specific individuals named to take over guardianship of your children. If you can, it's also a good idea to select an alternative guardian. When children are involved, it's best to have someone named as the guardian to avoid a child going into government care.

Inheritance Disbursement

For beneficiaries who are minors or young adults, it can be helpful to line out the distribution of the trust. This can 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 versus a large lump sum or you can put off the disbursement until your child has reached a more mature age of your choosing.

No matter what your age, it's important to have an estate plan in place. This document can help show exactly who you intend to take over ownership of each of your assets. It's a nice gesture for your friends and family to have this documentation in place before you pass. Here at Gibbons Law Firm, we can help handle all of your needs for an estate plan. Contact our law office at the Lake of the Ozarks to schedule your consultation today!


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

Questions to Consider When Planning for Your Child’s Future

The future is full of unknowns which can make it hard to prepare for. Even though many parents do not like to think about the “what ifs”, it is important to the well-being of your child to do so. If something should happen to you and/or your spouse, you will want your child to be protected. There are steps to ensure your child has everything that you have intended for them to receive. Our Lake of the Ozarks law firm can help establish a plan in order to protect your child, should something unfortunate happen to you. While these topics are not easy to think about, remember it’s best to be prepared.

Who will care for my child?

If you have someone in mind to care for your child if something should happen to you, it’s important to get that information legally documented. This can help ensure that your child will be with who you intended to help raise them and have guardianship over them. Whether it’s a relative or a close friend, your child should be cared for by the person you wish to do so. If both legal parents pass away, a court will decide who should care for the child or children in question, if there is no specific indication in a will.

How will this person pay for my child’s expenses?

Another factor that goes into deciding who will care for your child is how will they financially support your little one. Taking on the care of a child can impact the financial situation of the caregiver. From added food expense to the cost associated with school activities, you will have to factor these types of expenses into your decision. You can designate a certain amount of your assets to be distributed to the individuals who will gain guardianship of your child. You can also specify that any money that is distributed be used for the sole purpose of raising your child, to avoid it going toward another cause.

Where will they live?

If you want your child to keep up with his or her normal routine, you can specify where you would like your child to be raised. Whether you intend for the caretaker to move into your home to offer a familiar environment for your children or you want to specify that your child attends the same school, it’s important to note any special requirements that would like to take place.

How will my child gain access to my assets?

In your will, you can narrow down when and how your children will receive your assets. Many times, guardians will be given a portion of the assets in order to help with expenses of raising the child. On other occasions, all assets may not be distributed until the child is of legal age – 18 years old. You can specify exactly how your child will gain access to your financial assets.

Most parents have a natural instinct to protect their children and Gibbons Law Firm can help you do just that! With a plan in place for the future, you can rest assured that your children are taken care of and your wishes will be fulfilled. If you don’t have a will in place should something happen to you or your spouse, it’s time to take action. Contact our attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks to start preparing your family for the unknown future. To schedule a free consultation to discuss your future wishes, give us a call 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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5 Tips to Make a Divorce Less Stressful

Divorce is one of the most challenging and stressful processes an individual can go through. No matter what your reason for the end of a marriage may be, it's a tough decision to make for your family. With strong emotions involved throughout the entire process, you may feel overwhelmed with the stress of divorce. As your Lake of the Ozarks divorce attorney, I know how difficult of time this is for you and your entire family. That's why I've dedicated this week's blog to focus on ways to make the divorce process less stressful for all involved.

1. Disclose All Assets

Assets will be evaluated during the divorce process in order to divide them amongst the spouses. Do not attempt to hide any assets that your husband or wife may not know about. If the court discovers such items have been covered up, the process will start over and you may be reprimanded for not disclosing all of your assets upfront.

2. Cooperate Through the Process

To help reduce the stress level for everyone involved, try to cooperate with the court and with your spouse as you part ways. This makes life a little easier on both of you through this major life change. Especially if you have children involved in the process, it's best to lead by example and be as flexible as possible throughout the divorce.

3. Be There For Your Kids

Continue to be involved in your children's lives, even if you are no longer living under the same roof. It can help show your kids how much you care and that you will always be there to support them, even if you and your spouse are no longer together. Put your kids first and remember they are going through a challenging time, just like you are.

4. Keep Life Changes to a Minimum

Divorce is a major life change in itself. Try not to add to many changes into your life at the same time. It can make the process drag on longer than needed and make it even more stressful on yourself. While it's hard to predict when changes will come about, try to avoid them if possible or put them off until after the divorce process is finalized.

5. Ask Questions if Something is Unclear

Your divorce attorney is there for you throughout the entire process. Don't hesitate to ask questions about a certain protocol or why something is happening. A professional legal advisor will be able to help walk you through the process and thoroughly explain why this step is needed to reach the end goal of being divorced. Don’t be afraid to ask questions - that is why you hired a professional who has done this before!

An experienced divorce lawyer near Lake of the Ozarks can help you through the entire process. From filing to division of assets to custody arrangements, Gibbons Law Firm can help you navigate through the stressful and emotional divorce process. If you are in the middle of a divorce or are planning to file soon, contact our Lake of the Ozarks law firm to schedule a consultation today. With us, your first consultation is always free.

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