Is THIS True About Divorce?

Divorce can feel really intimidating to someone who doesn't know what to expect. It's not something you really plan for because you don't see it coming when you choose to get married. When you marry someone you don't think about divorcing them as you are pledging your vows "until death do you part". Divorce happens and about 50 percent of marriages end that way. There are many myths about divorce. Our divorce lawyers at the Lake of the Ozarks are here to clear up a few of these myths and set the record straight in this week's blog. If you are in need of an experienced divorce attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks, please give us a call. Gibbons Law Firm can be reached at (573) 348-2211, your first consultation will be free.

Is THIS True About Divorce?

MYTH: PREVENTING YOUR EX FROM SEEING YOUR CHILDREN IF THEY DON'T PAY CHILD SUPPORT IS LEGAL.
If one parent has been awarded full or primary custody, the other parent may be ordered to pay child support to help shoulder the financial responsibility of raising children. If one parent neglects to provide the child support payments as directed, the other parent may decide to withhold visitation rights until the money is received. However, this is an illegal act that can result in legal consequences on the custodial parent's part. If your spouse is neglecting to pay child support, you should consult with an attorney to determine the best course of action.

MYTH: YOU CAN'T GET DIVORCED UNLESS ADULTERY WAS COMMITTED.
Missouri (along with most other states) is a no-fault divorce state. This means that you can file for divorce even if your spouse has not committed some form of marital misconduct, such as adultery. All that spouses are required to prove is that there is "no reasonable likelihood that the marriage can be preserved, and that the marriage is irretrievably broken."

MYTH: YOU HAVE TO GET DIVORCED IN A COURTROOM.
The media likes to sensationalize high-stakes, highly combative divorces as they are battled out in the courtroom, but the truth is that many divorces can be settled outside of court. This process, known as mediation, involves an attorney serving as an impartial third party serving as the liaison between the spouses as they determine how their assets and responsibilities should be divided. This method of divorce is often much more efficient, cost-effective, and less stressful.

MYTH: FULL CHILD CUSTODY WILL BE AWARDED TO THE PRIMARY PARENT.
Though you may have been your children's primary caregiver in the past, this fact will not guarantee your right to full custody of your children after the divorce. The Court will award custody to the parent who is believed to be able to best provide for the child's best interests. During the proceedings, you and your attorney will have to prove to the Court that you fit this description.

Divorce is tough but you CAN get through it and not be taken advantage of financially. Our divorce lawyers in Mid-Missouri can help you. Give us a call at Gibbons Law Firm today. We can answer your questions and guide you through this difficult process. We can be reached at the number listed below and you can follow us on our social media platforms listed below to stay up to date on our latest legal tips and 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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Evidence Examples To Gather In a Personal Injury Case

Personal injury cases - this could mean a number of different types of cases ranging from car accidents, motorcycle accidents, boating accidents, business torts, defective products, premises liability, sexual harassment, discrimination, workers’ compensation, or wrongful death. In this week's blog, our personal injury attorneys at the Lake of the Ozarks are here to give you a few examples of pieces of evidence that you may want to gather when you're in the middle of a personal injury case. If you find yourself injured in an accident caused by the negligence of someone else, please call Gibbons Law Firm today to get the compensation you deserve. We can be reached at 573-348-2211. Your initial consultation will be free.

Evidence Examples To Gather In a Personal Injury Case

Pictures
It is important that you take as many photos as you can. For example, if your personal injury case is a car accident, be sure to get photos of everything. Take photos of the entire car, every damaged area. It doesn't hurt to take photos of your injures if any as well. These photos may be very beneficial in court, but also with your insurance company. Print them out, if you can. Keep a digital file as well. Having back up records is a good idea.

Medical Records
If you sustained any injuries from your accident that was caused by another person, keep the medical records from the healthcare facility you go to for your injuries. It's important you can prove how much you had to pay for your injuries so there's a clear reason you are seeking that amount in compensation.

Receipts of Medical Supplies You Had to Buy
If you had to pay for a wheelchair or crutches, for example, out of your own pocket, keep all of these receipts. This will be important for your attorney to have when fighting for the compensation you seek.

Get The Personal Injury Attorney You Deserve and Call Gibbons Law Firm Today!

All of us here at Gibbons Law Firm hope that you found this blog helpful and enlightening when it comes to your personal injury case. You deserve the very best legal representation you can get when it comes to situations like this. If you are in the middle of a tough legal case concerning an accident you were involved in, don't go through this alone and call an experienced attorney you can count on. 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. Be sure to 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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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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How To Boat Cautiously While Having Fun at the Lake of the Ozarks

The Lake of the Ozarks is known for its boating fun. People from all over the country will come here to enjoy this BEAUTIFUL lake. That being said, when you choose to boat at the Lake of the Ozarks, you're choosing to boat among MANY others when you're out on the water during a weekend, typically, so it's important that you're boating cautiously. Keep reading this week's blog for a few boating safety tips to help you do that. If you or someone you know has been injured in a boating accident at the Lake of the Ozarks that was caused by an intoxicated boater, it's important that you seek the legal help you deserve. This, unfortunately, DOES happen and it can be in your best interested to have an EXPERIENCED personal injury attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks on your side. Call Gibbons Law Firm today for your free consultation. We can be reached at 573-348-2211.

How To Boat Cautiously While Having Fun at the Lake of the Ozarks

BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS AT ALL TIMES!
There is typically a lot happening at once out on the water during a nice, summer weekend at the lake. Keep in mind, you may come across patrons kayaking, paddle boarding, swimming, fishing, etc. Be courteous and boat at an appropriate speed. Can you imagine how many boating accidents are caused simply by the boater not paying attention? Too many.

ALWAYS HAVE ENOUGH LIFE JACKETS ONBOARD AND EASY TO GET TO.
Not only do you legally have to have enough life jackets on board for everyone aboard the boat, but this is for your own safety. You may be a GREAT swimmer, but if you do get into a boating accident and find yourself stranded, you'll be thankful these are on board.

NEVER BOAT WHILE INTOXICATED.
This should go without saying, but you should never under any circumstance operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. There are so many services available if you need a sober boat captain at the Lake of the Ozarks. It just isn't worth the risk. Not only would you be putting yourself in danger, but you'd be facing extensive jail time and fines and putting others at risk too.

Get The Compensation You Deserve, If You Were The Victim of a Boating Accident, With Gibbons Law Firm!

If you think you may have a personal injury case, and if you were the victim of a horrific boating accident, you probably do, 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. Understand that Roger Gibbons has successfully tried HUNDREDS of cases and has the experience and resources to give you an opportunity for a successful outcome on your personal injury case. Call today for your first consultation, the first one is 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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Ways a Criminal Charge Can Impact Your Personal and Professional Life

Facing a criminal charge is an uncertain time, likely full of many concerns and questions. While you're facing a hurdle in the immediate future with your charge, there may be more impacts on your life down the road, even after you've served your penalty. Our criminal defense attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks is here to help best represent your side of the case. Below, Gibbons Law Firm has provided common impacts a criminal charge can have on people.

Difficulties Landing a Job

Job applications include criminal history. Even if your application doesn't have a spot for criminal history, a background check may be run on each potential employee. Once a history is discovered, your application may be thrown out of the running for the position. Even if you have a job and your punishment doesn't involve time served, your employer may have a policy that states no one with a criminal charge can work there. If that's the case, you may lose your existing job.

Strain on Personal Relationships

Your friends and family may become distant as word about your criminal charge spreads around. This kind of distance between people who were once close to you can be difficult to come to terms with. If you have children, your custodial rights may change due to a criminal charge.

Trouble Finding a Place to Live

Many housing applications require a background check for new tenants. Landlords may become leery of allowing someone with a criminal charge to live at their property. Similar to a job, your current landlord may evict you due to a new charge.

Stress Repaying Debts

Criminal charges often result in hefty fines. These kinds of fines can pile up and become a large obstacle to overcome. Having a large amount of debt can add to the stress of your situation, making it even more difficult to deal with.

Daunting Mental Health Challenges

Many people who have been accused of a crime suffer from mental health obstacles. A stigma comes along with a criminal charge not only by others but on yourself. Mental health issues can lead down a dangerous road as you try to find some way to relieve the burden you're dealing with.

Being convicted of a crime can be detrimental to your personal and professional life. An experienced criminal defense attorney near Lake Ozark, MO can help you present your side of the case in hopes to lessen your charges. Having a less hefty fine or shortened penalty to serve, can help lessen the burden of your charge. While some of the ways a criminal charge can impact your life will remain the same, some other factors won't be as severe if your charge isn't for maximum punishments for the crime in which you're being charged.

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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Tips to Decrease Workers' Compensation Claims Against your Business

As a business owner, it's important to protect your venture with workers' compensation insurance. In fact, it's required by law to carry on your employees. While this insurance is in place to help cover the financial burden if an employee gets hurt at work, there are further steps you can take to help reduce the chance of a workers' compensation claim against your business. Our experienced lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks is here to point out some easy ways you can better protect your venture.

Require Thorough Training with New Hires

When hiring someone to join your team, ensure they have been shown the proper safety protocol for all tasks. This is important to show how safety is a top priority for your new staff members. Putting an emphasis on safety can help make it clear from the start of their employment that you take the safety of your employees seriously. Take the extra time to explain in detail the safety regulations you have within your company. Ensure each new employee fully understands what the safety protocol is and why it is in place. Some employees may not take a safety regulation as seriously until they hear why it is a regulation in the first place.

Look for Safety Improvements

Let your staff know that you are always on the lookout for safety improvements. Sometimes the people who do the job on a daily basis can have great input for safety ideas to add to your company's protocol. Try to be open to employees to report faulty equipment. Let your staff know that you want to know when a piece of equipment is starting to fail, as this is a huge safety concern that needs to be addressed right away. It can be easy to verbally stress about the money required to fix equipment, but try to keep that kind of talk out of the workplace. It may discourage employees from reporting a safety concern if they know it'll end up costing more money for the business to properly fix it, if they believe money is an issue.

Conduct Regular Safety Training

Ensure your staff has regular training sessions to promote safety. Cover any new safety protocol and review your current procedures. This can help ensure that safety is top of mind for all of your employees. While most new employees receive safety training during their initial training, it's best to have a refresher course on a regular basis.

Encourage a Strong Team Environment

Encourage all of your staff members to look out for one another. If your team has a strong bond, they are more likely to care about the safety of one another. Keeping someone safe is important to all employees and the company as a whole. Also, a co-worker may be able to help point out a safety concern to a fellow employee in real-time and help prevent an unnecessary injury.

If your business has a workers' compensation claim, Gibbons Law Firm is here to help. We can help advise you as you gather the necessary documentation for you to best present your side of the case. Our workers' compensation lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks has experience in this legal realm and is here to help you better protect your business venture!

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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4th of July Firework Safety Tips

4th of July is only days away and many of you may plan on attending or hosting your own firework events. Either way, it's important to keep safety in mind when near fireworks. Our law firm at the Lake of the Ozarks knows how potentially dangerous fireworks can be and we want to share some safety tips for you to keep top of mind. Check out the safety tips provided by Gibbons Law Firm before your upcoming firework extravaganza!

Buy Legitimate Fireworks

Homemade fireworks are a common cause of firework injuries. Professional pyrotechnicians design store bought fireworks and it's the safest option for your fireworks display. It's important to purchase legitimate fireworks to better protect you, your family, and your guests.

Have Water Nearby

Fireworks can throw off sparks and other pieces of debris. It's a good idea to keep a bucket of water handy. This can be used for a quick extinguish if needed or to throw on a spark that gets out of hand and starts to catch its surroundings on fire.

Keep a Safe Distance

When lighting fireworks, it's important to stay as far away as possible from other people and objects. This can help reduce the risk of a bystander getting injured due to a faulty firework.

Never Approach a "Dud" Firework

If a firework was lit but doesn't explode, it may be a dud. It's best to use extreme caution if you have a "dud" firework as it may just have a delay in exploding. Never look down into the tube you use to send fireworks to see if one is still down there. Fireworks come out of the launch tubes at great speeds and can seriously injure someone who's hand or face may be in the way upon exit.

Watch Closely as Children Play with Fireworks

Fireworks are not toys. There should always be close adult supervision when fireworks are being lit. Even the small "kid-friendly" fireworks can cause burns and injure your little ones. Be sure to educate your children about the dangers of fireworks before they use any.

Now that you've hopefully brushed up on firework tips, you're ready to safely celebrate the 4th of July. Our personal injury law firm at the Lake of the Ozarks wishes you and yours a safe and happy Independence Day!

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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