Showing posts with label lawyers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label lawyers. Show all posts

Wednesday, June 23, 2021

Common Reasons People May Delay Getting A Will And Why They Should AVOID Doing This

Estate planning can be tough on people for a number of reasons. For starters, most people don't like thinking about what happens when they die. Our estate planning attorneys in Lake Ozark understand that. However, we can't stress this enough, it's incredibly important for you to have a will. If you don't have one, get one sooner rather than later. If you pass away without a will, it can cause SO many problems for your loved ones, disputes among heirs, confusion about your funeral, tax issues, etc. Keep reading this week's blog for a few common reasons people delay getting a will and why they SHOULDN'T. If you need some getting your will together, contact one of our experienced estate planning attorneys at the Lake of the Ozarks today. Gibbons Law Firm can be reached at (573) 348-2211.


Common Reasons People May Delay Getting A Will And Why They Should AVOID Doing This


Deciding on who gets what asset may be stressful for you. 

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 divvied up.


Thinking about anyone else caring for children can be difficult.

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.


The fear of the unknown intimidates some people. 

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.


Thinking about your own death can be so sad that people may just want to avoid doing so altogether.

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.



Our Estate Planning Attorneys Are At Your Service!

Now that you have a better idea of how important making a will actually is, let's get this task taken care of together before it's too late. Call our estate planning lawyers in Lake Ozark today. We can be reached at the phone number listed below. Remember, your first consultation is free. Make your wishes known with Gibbons Law Firm. We are ready to help you with this important part of life. Be sure to follow us on our social media channels listed below to stay up to date on our latest legal tips.


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

Follow us on...

Wednesday, June 9, 2021

Factors That Are Considered When Awarding Child Custody

Do you know people who are divorced with children? The odds are you do. The divorce rate is still about 50%. Have you ever thought about what it took for child custody to be awarded to the parents? This is SO important to keep top of mind if you are ever considering divorce and you have children. Our divorce lawyers at the Lake of the Ozarks are here to give you a few factors that are considered when awarding child custody. If you need to speak with an experienced Mid-Missouri divorce attorney, please call Gibbons Law Firm today. Your first consultation is free. We can be reached at 573-348-2211.



Factors That Are Considered When Awarding Child Custody


When it comes to child custody cases in Missouri, the court has to look at what's in the best interest of the children. Many factors can play into that. Here are a few that may be considered:


FAIR SHARING OF TIME WITH THE CHILD

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


THE CHILD'S WISHES

  • The child’s adjustment to the child’s home, school, and community.
  • 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 MENTAL STABILITY OF THE PARENTS

  • The mental and physical health of all individuals involved, including any history of abuse of any individuals involved.
  • Possible drug addiction from the past may be looked into.
  • Any DWIs that may be on the parent's record may also be taken into account.


PROVIDING A STABLE ENVIRONMENT FOR THE CHILD

  • The intention of either parent to relocate the principal residence of the child.
  • The interaction and interrelationship of the child with parents, siblings, and any other person may significantly affect the child’s best interests.
  • Having a steady job to provide for the child.
  • Having a home in a safe neighborhood for the child to reside in.
  • Participating and being present on a regular basis for your child's extracurricular activities, such as ball games, music recitals, school plays, etc.


Do You Need An EXPERIENCED Divorce Lawyer Fighting For Your Child Custody?

Divorce is tough on everyone. Just stay focused on the task at hand and don't be afraid to lean on your divorce attorney to be your guide through this emotional time. Any case that involves child custody can be truly trying and dramatic for everyone involved but you CAN get through it. Our divorce attorneys are here to help you any way we can. For more information on our family law practice, please visit our website at www.RGibbonsLawFirm.com. Be sure to follow us on our social media channels to stay up to date on our latest legal tips and announcements.



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

Follow us on...

Thursday, April 22, 2021

What Types of Personal Injury Cases Happen The Most In The Summer Time?

Summer 2021 will be here before you know it. So many people venture to this area for some fun in the sun that time of year. We hope that you have a fun, but also safe summer. Our personal injury lawyers at the Lake of the Ozarks have seen way too many people get injured here in the summer time. Keep reading this week's blog for a few of the most common types of personal injury cases. If you find yourself injured due to an unfortunate accident, call Gibbons Law Firm today and get the compensation you deserve. We can be reached at 573-348-2211. Schedule your free consultation today.



What Types of Personal Injury Cases Happen The Most In The Summer Time?


Accidents Where Boating While Intoxicated Is Involved

At the Lake of the Ozarks, it’s no surprise to see hundreds and thousands of boats out on the water, especially during the peak summer months and busy holiday weekends. Unfortunately, it doesn’t take much for a fun day on the water to turn dangerous - especially when drinks are involved. Alcohol use is one of the top factors in fatal boating accidents, so if you are operating the boat, you’ll want to skip the alcohol. Even if your passengers are good swimmers, you’ll want to make sure that they always wear life jackets while on board.


Accidents Where Driving While Intoxicated Is Involved

During the summer months, you don’t have to contend with the risky driving weather that snow and ice bring - but that doesn’t eliminate other risks. Nicer weather means that more people will be out and about, which can increase the risk of car accidents. Some of these accidents can include more teen drivers on the road since they aren’t in school, as well more people being out for summer parties, family reunions, and summer vacations. More summer parties can also mean that more people could be drinking and driving, as well.


Accidents Where Bikers Are Injured

The beautiful weather makes it nearly impossible for cyclists of all kinds to not get out on the road. From motorcycles to a standard bicycle, it is very easy for riders to become the victim of an accident. Because bicycles and motorcycles are less visible and other vehicles, drivers need to be on high alert for cyclists during the summer months. If you are a cyclist, one of the best things you can do is to wear proper safety gear and fits, use reflectors, and have a good helmet.



Don't Go Through a Tough Personal Injury Case Alone!

Call our Lake Ozark personal injury lawyers today! Get the compensation you need for injuries you sustained due to someone else's recklessness. Your consultation with an EXPERIENCED, local personal injury attorney in Lake Ozark is just a call away. Your first consultation is FREE. Call us today at the number listed below. Follow us on our social media channels also listed below to stay up to date on our latest tips.


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

Follow us on...

Thursday, April 15, 2021

Avoid A Personal Injury Lawsuit By Having A Safer Deck This Summer!

Summer 2021 will be here before you know it. Many people may enjoy a nice, deck party this summer with friends and loved ones. We wish a fun, but safe summer. That being said, when you invite other people over to your deck, you may become liable for any injuries that may accidentally occur. Our personal injury law firm and the Lake of the Ozarks is here to give you few tips to keep your deck safe in this week's blog. Try to avoid a personal injury lawsuit by having a safe deck! 


Deck Safety Tips


STAIN YOUR DECK.

To help prevent a stubbed toe or a splinter, it's best to have your deck surface resanded and painted/stained on an annual basis. It not only makes your deck look better, it makes it a safer place for everyone on your property.

INSPECT YOUR SUPPORT BEAMS FOR STABILITY.

Support beams are what holds your deck up off the ground. It's also a common place for a fault to go unnoticed since it is often out of sight. Take time to look over your deck supports to ensure they are in good condition.

SECURE YOUR RAILINGS AND MAKE SURE THEY ARE STURDY.

Railings are a place for leaning, but they can also become a dangerous area for guests if they aren't properly secured. Ensure your deck rails are sturdy and no spindles are missing. This railing system can help keep your guests in place.


CHECK YOUR FLOOR FOR POSSIBLE ROT.

The deck flooring is a common place for danger on your deck. A lose or rotting board can be a huge danger for anyone on your deck. If you notice a board that is broken or rotted, replace it as soon as possible.


CHECK YOUR STAIRS FOR POSSIBLE DANGERS.

Stairs can be a danger all in themselves. Ensure you have railings along your stairs to assist as your guests make their way up and down. Also, check that your stairs are in good condition. Over time, the stairs may come unattached from the deck itself, presenting a danger for all.



Now that you have all these deck safety tips, put them to good use! So your best to avoid a personal injury lawsuit this summer. That being said, if you ever find yourself on someone else's deck this summer and they failed to keep it safe and you get injured, give us a call. Our personal injury lawyers at the Lake of the Ozarks can help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Schedule your consultation with us today. The first one is free. Gibbons Law Firm 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 tips we offer and more.



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

Follow us on...

Friday, April 9, 2021

Estate Planning Tips for Single Parents

Being a single parent can come with MANY challenges. It takes a strong person to be a good single parent and we commend you if you are one. That being said, don't ever be afraid to ask for help as a single parent. There's no shame in it and there ARE resources out there for you. For example, when it comes to your estate planning, our attorneys at the Lake of the Ozarks are here for you. Schedule your free consultation today. Gibbons Law Firm can be reached at (573) 348-2211. In the meantime, keep reading this week's blog for a few estate planning tips for single parents. 


Estate Planning Tips for Single Parents


Choose A Guardian You Trust For Your Children.
The guardian is someone you name to care for your minor children in the event you pass away before they are of age. Many single parents may look to a close family member to be the guardian of their children, possibly their parent or sibling. However, the person you choose the guardian to be doesn't have to be family. It could be a close friend also. Whoever you choose should be someone you trust whole-heartedly. You should also think about where this person lives. If you'd prefer that your children stay in their school district if something happens to you, choose someone local to your area.

Consider Purchasing Life Insurance.
Not only can life insurance cover your funeral expenses, but it can also greatly help your loved ones financially. If you're a single parent, your children likely depend on you to cover their financial needs. If something happens to you, a proper life insurance policy can help them be taken care of financially upon your passing.

If You Don't Already Have A Will, Get One.
Everyone should have a will, especially single parents. A will allows you to make your wishes known when you are no longer able to speak for yourself upon your passing. If you have special assets that you want to leave to your children, you would list something like that in your will.


Need Assistance With Your Estate Planning?

Gibbons Law Firm hopes you found this blog helpful when it comes to estate planning as a single parent. We understand how overwhelming life can feel sometimes for you. Estate planning is NOT something you have to do on your own. We can help. Our estate planning attorneys in Lake Ozark can answer any questions you may have. We can also create your will for you and make sure you are heading down the right path when it comes to your estate planning. We've helped many clients in the past with this very issue and we can help you too. Simply give us a call at the phone number listed below. Let's get your consultation scheduled. The first one is FREE! While you're here at the bottom of this blog, please follow us on our social media links listed below to stay up to date on what we're doing. You may even get a few more free estate planning tips from doing so.


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

Follow us on...

Wednesday, November 25, 2020

Safe Driving Tips for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving 2020 is this week. Who is excited? This is a very special holiday where families come together and celebrate what we are thankful for. That being said, as you drive to see your families this year, our personal injury attorneys at the Lake of the Ozarks wish you a safe journey. Keep reading this week's blog for a few safe driving tips for Thanksgiving 2020. If you or someone you care about has been involved in a car accident caused by a negligent driver, please call our Missouri personal injury attorneys today. Gibbons Law Firm can be reached at (573) 348-2211. Your first consultation is free.



Safe Driving Tips for Thanksgiving


Pay attention to speed limit signs.

The speed limits are there for good reason. Don't ignore them just because you are in a holiday rush. Be mindful of how fast or slow the other cars around you are going, as well. It only takes SECONDS for an accident to occur and speeding will likely only increase your chances of getting into a car accident.


Be mindful of the weather conditions and drive accordingly.

This is Missouri and the weather can be very unpredictable. No matter what the weather is doing the day you drive to see your family for Thanksgiving, be sure to be mindful of it and drive accordingly. For example, if it decides to rain heavily the day you are driving, slow down and drive cautiously.


Fill your vehicle up with gas before making a long road trip.

There's nothing worse than running out of gas when you really need to be somewhere. You never know when you may be stopped in traffic, so it's a good idea to get into the habit of filling up your vehicle with gas before making any long road trips.


Never drive while intoxicated.

Even if you are consuming alcohol at a festive Thanksgiving party, you should never drive home intoxicated. Call a Taxi or a friend to come to pick you up or ask if you can stay the night and drive sober tomorrow. The consequences of driving while intoxicated are too great to risk it.


Avoid all driving distractions.

Pay attention at all times while driving. Do not eat, text, groom yourself, email, smoke, or look down to adjust the radio while driving your vehicle.



Have a Happy, But Safe Thanksgiving From Gibbons Law Firm!

All of us here at Gibbons Law Firm would like to wish you a Happy Thanksgiving. Please be safe out on the roads. If you do find yourself in an accident caused by a negligent driver, get the compensation for your injuries that you deserve. We can help. Contact our personal injury attorneys in Lake Ozark. 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.


Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm
2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4
Lake Ozark, MO 65049
(573) 348-2211

Follow us on...

Friday, November 20, 2020

Reasons To Have a Will in 2020

If 2020 has taught us anything, it is that you should plan for the unexpected! This has been a tough year with everything that has happened in the world. That much is for sure. However, you can make a plan and make your wishes known if something tragic happens to you. Our estate planning attorneys at the Lake of the Ozarks are here to give you a few reasons why you should have will in 2020 in this week's blog. Need help getting your will created? Call Gibbons Law Firm today! We can be reached at 573-348-2211.



Reasons To Have a Will in 2020

TO CARE FOR YOUR CHILDREN.

If you have beneficiaries who are minors or young adults, you can line out a distribution of the trust. This can help reduce the chance of a young heir getting carried away with a large amount of money or assets. You can dictate how you would like your money to be disbursed to your underage child.

TO PREPARE FOR LIFE CHANGES THAT MAY COME YOUR WAY.

Anytime a major life change takes place, you will likely need to make updates to your estate plan. If your marital status changes - whether getting married or divorced - you should update your plan. The birth of a child is another reason you should update your estate plan. If your assets or income change drastically, it may be time to make changes, as well. The passing of a beneficiary will require a change to your plan to ensure you have all beneficiary information up to date.


Estate Planning Tips for 2020

Know That No Two Situations Are Alike When It Comes To Estate Planning.

Each situation is unique and your estate plan requirement may differ from someone else. It's not a one-size-fits-all task. Contact our Lake of the Ozarks attorney to get an estimate for your estate planning process.

Be Prepared When You Meet Your Attorney And Have All Your Financial Statements Ready.

Any financial statements from your investments and bank accounts should be gathered as you plan your estate. A complete list of your assets is also helpful. Have a good idea of who you'd like to leave each asset with ahead of time. This can help cut down on the time and help get some of the emotional details out of the way.



Ready To Get Your Will Created By A Professional?

All of us here at Gibbons Law Firm hope that you found this blog enlightening and helpful when it comes to your estate planning. We know how important it is to have a will, if you don't have one already, we strongly encourage you to get one. If you have any questions about the process, we are here to help! Please give us a 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 platforms listed below to stay up to date on our latest announcements and legal tips.



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

Follow us on...

Thursday, September 24, 2020

Estate Planning Tips for Business Owners With Children

Do you own your own business? If so, you've likely worked very hard putting that business together, so having a professional estate plan put together can be a very responsible decision. This can assure your business ends up in the right hands in the event you pass away at an unexpected time. We understand that this is an unfortunate matter that no one likes to think about but the reality is that having an estate plan can make matters easier on your loved ones that are already mourning your passing. Our estate planning lawyers at the Lake of the Ozarks are here to give you a few tips for that may help with your estate planning process, if you're a business owner with children, in this week's blog. If you are a business owner in need of an estate plan, please call our law firm in Lake Ozark today. Gibbons Law Firm can be reached at 573-348-2211.



Estate Planning Tips for Business Owners With Children

Who would you like to leave your business in the event you pass away? Is it your children, a trusted, long-time co-worker, or maybe you're considering other options? Either way, there are certain things to consider first, such as: 

TAX

This is important to remember. The value of your business can change over time. The taxable eststate would include the value of the business at the time of your death, not necessarily at the time of when you started your estate plan.

POTENTIAL FAMILY ISSUES (If you do plan to leave your business to one of your children.)

Let's say you're choosing to leave your business to one of your four children. It can be a very good idea to have a conversation before making any final decisions here. Matters such as these aren't worth tearing families apart over. There is a gentle way to go about this and just being honest and upfront about your plans beforehand can go a long way.

SUCCESSION PLANS

A good succession plan will let your successor know exactly what needs to happen when it comes to the transfer of the ownership and management of your business. Without this, your business could end up in chaos.


These are just a few of the matters to consider when estate planning for your business, but we encourage you to meet with an experienced attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks when choosing to have an estate plan created. It's a very important document and you can benefit from the attorney's experience of doing this for many years. Your opinion matters, but if you don't have a proper estate plan, it may not actually get heard if you pass away. This is just something to consider, you don't have to have an attorney to create an estate plan, we just strongly encourage it because of the significance of this document.



Are You Interested In Having A Professional Estate Plan Put Together?

All of us here at Gibbons Law Firm hope you found this blog enlightening and helpful in your estate planning process. We are here in you need any help. Please give us a call today. Your first consultation will be free. We can be reached at the phone number listed below. You can also follow us on our social media channels listed below for our latest announcements and more legal tips.


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

Follow us on...