Archives 2021

Today marks the anniversary of one of the worst decisions I ever made – getting a divorce. No, not in the sense that I wish I had stayed with my partner; we had a lot of differences that ended up making staying in the relationship pretty much impossible.

What I’m talking about is going through the process of divorce litigation. When we decided to split up, we actually were in a very amicable and positive place despite knowing we wouldn’t be staying together in the long run. Divorce court changed all of that.

My partner’s lawyers were not there to play soft ball; I made significantly more than them, and their lawyers were dead set on grabbing up as much as my income and our shared assets as possible to increase their payout. Once I saw this start to unfold, I realized that I would need to step up my game or I’d be out of my shirt by the end of the proceedings.

So began a year-long, very nasty court battle over what had started off as a very calm and thoughtful separation. My ex and I’s relationship deteriorated as they let their lawyers run loose, with me blaming them for not having the guts to stand up to them and them taking offense to this and digging in their heels.

After the proceedings wrapped up, we were both worse off than when we began. I was out a significant sum and had lost most of our shared assets, but my ex had spent the majority of the savings and the eventual winnings on paying off their predatory legal team.

I wish we knew then that there was an alternative – family law mediations – that we could have used and saved both our relationship and our money. Unfortunately, I just happened to meet a client of the highest rated mediation firm in Orange County (McNamee Mediations) a few years after the divorce had been finalized.

When I say they are the highest rated, I mean it – both the client I met and the many who left testimonials on the firm’s various social media pages had nothing but positive things to say about McNamee. Special attention goes to the professionalism and level-headedness of the team there that has resulted in many happy divorces – as happy as they can get, anyway.

As a financial planner, I see my clients go through a number of changes in their lives and sometimes it includes a separation/divorce. Mediation is the far better option when dissolving a marriage as it puts a lot less strain not only on the finances but also the emotions of everyone involved. This is where Colleen McNamee stands out. As an attorney-mediator, she is extremely knowledgeable in her field, has two decades of experience, but also truly cares about her clients. Something that cannot be taught in law school is the gift of empathy and caring for others, which translates into achieving fair and equitable results for couples. Thanks to her very strong skill set and the services she’s able to offer, she remains a neutral counsel to both parties throughout the process, and the Agreements she drafts are far superior to any other divorce mediator I have seen! My clients have come out feeling like they were treated fairly, received their equitable shares, and can now move forward with their lives onto their next chapters. – Katerina Hencova, Google Review

Colleen McNamee is the absolute best[!!] When we started out on our journey of going through a divorce, I felt overwhelmed from every direction and had no idea where to begin or what to expect. I’ve heard all the horror stories of things turning ugly and costs rising as the process drags on and on. BUT, I am SO thankful we went with Colleen!! She made the whole process clear, concise, & cost effective. She helped us communicate peacefully and reach an agreement that worked for both parties. She is very professional and yet the kindest human being! [Thank you Colleen from the bottom of my heart for everything!!] – Jess B., Yelp Review

If you and your partner are like me and mine were – recognizing that we’re not meant for each other, but still on good terms and would like to remain that way – do yourself a favor: avoid divorce litigation at all costs. Call McNamee instead, you’ll come out with your relationship changed but (mostly) intact.

McNamee Mediations

+19492233836

4590 MacArthur Blvd Suite 500, Newport Beach, CA 92660

Divorce is never an easy prospect, but it’s fair to say that some separations are far more painful and destructive than others. Couples whose relationships have fallen apart in a particularly acrimonious fashion, or couples where one party or the other has become unhinged in their desire to punish the other, there are plenty of situations where one or both parties are determined to burn every possible bridge on their way out of the relationship.

In these situations, the best course of action is for you to find the best legal help available, then batten down the hatches and take cover until the whole thing blows over. This is especially true in states with complex and often highly unfair laws regarding separation, divorce, and family law.

One such state, California, is probably the worst offender on the list. Not only are the laws highly disadvantageous for the partner with a higher income, the custody laws are often incredibly lopsided and ruinous for your relationships with your family if the other party is especially vindictive and has a halfway decent lawyer.

So, if you live in California, which many of our readers do, it’s imperative that you have at least one great lawyer in your area on your address book. For our southern California readers, one of the best firms for divorce lawyers in Santa Ana and the greater Orange County area is Shuff Law Firm, a family law firm that’s been running since the 1970’s.

Tamara and Joeseph Shuff have accumulated over a half century of experience during their tenure as the owners and lead attorneys for Shuff, and they have the legal record to back up their efficacy as lawyers. Their clients, as seen in these testimonials from their Yelp page, attest to their professionalism and their abilities to give their clients the best legal results possible:

Shuff Law Firm was recommended to me by a dear friend and I highly recommend them to you!

Joe, Tamara and their entire team work with the utmost professionalism coupled with a genuine care for their clients needs. This Father- Daughter team brings many many years of experience to the table! They’ll represent you with integrity, honesty, and a great energy, yet will not be steamrollered by opposing counsel.

Most recently, Tamara held my hand during an incredibly tough situation while believing in me and the justice to prevail. Her kind heart keeps her honest and her experience keeps her strong!

I can’t recommend Shuff Law Firm enough!

Laura K, Yelp Review

My entire experience with Shuff Law firm has exceeded my expectations and I was extremely satisfied. A close friend connected me with Joe Shuff. I was always impressed with how organized the staff was and how they always made me feel as if I had priority when calling the office. This was the first time I had ever been in a legal situation so I was confused and scared of all the “unknown”. Initially, I had only been working with Joe Shuff and then shortly after Tamara Shuff Mortensen was brought on. Tamara took the time to explain everything and answered all my questions with such patients. I was so happy to have them represent me and be my voice in such a complicated case. The circumstance was horrible but the outcome was amazing. Joe Shuff is experienced, respected, rational and incredibly helpful. Tamara gave me hope and inspiration. She is outstanding in court and her work ethic was very impressive.

L R., Yelp Review

If you’re about to enter the legal arena with a highly embittered and enraged former spouse, give the Shuffs a call. They’ve been in the business a long time, and they are specialized in making sure their clients emerge from such situations with as little damage as possible.

Shuff Law Firm

+17148340175

2634, 2107 N Broadway STE 301, Santa Ana, CA 92706

Motor vehicle crashes are recognized as the second biggest cause of death for teens in the United States. It is observed that as compared to older drivers, the younger ones often underestimate the dangerous situations on the road. Teens are less able than adults to make critical decisions at the time of serious crashes. Reports reveal that “in 2018, almost 2500 teens between the age group of 13 to 19, were killed and 285000 were treated in the emergency departments due to severe injuries after vehicle crashes.” The nonfatal and fatal motor vehicle crashes involving young drivers in the United States resulted in an estimated cost of $11.8 billion due to work loss and medical bills. 

There are many factors that contribute to road accidents involving new or young drivers; such as distracted driving, overspeeding, alcohol use, and not using seat belts. These drivers may take their eyes off the road—sometimes to use a cell phone or to reach for a snack or something in the car. This puts other people also in danger on the road. Texting, checking social media notifications, and going through emails—all of these behaviors can lead to crashes and serious injuries on the road. Therefore, teenagers and other new drivers are advised to follow all safety procedures, avoid distractions, and drive at a limited speed on roads. However, if in some unavoidable circumstances, one finds themself in a car accident, they should call attorneys to handle the matter. 

What should drivers do in the event of a car accident?

When you find yourself in a car accident, there are few essential things to do to make sure that you stay protected. First of all, you should stop when you are involved in the accident; this is a legal obligation for both parties. Even if you do not see any major damage, it is better to stop the car and check the scene carefully. Hire a personal injury lawyer when Carmel Valley Accidents arise.

It is important to make a record of the accident; when the investigating officers arrived at the site, tell them relevant facts, but do not make any guesses about the incident. It is best to take pictures on your camera as they are highly useful in the future to present evidence. Whether or not you observe any injuries on your body; seek medical attention to check if you have experienced any internal impact. In the meantime, contact car accident attorneys to handle the negotiation with the insurance companies. Personal injury attorneys know how to protect your rights and offer the best solution based on the level of damage.

Experienced lawyers know how to deal with the other party as well. If the case is required to be presented in court, they will prepare all the documents and collect relevant evidence as well. In this way, they are likely to help you receive favorable decisions from the court. Receiving the compensation you deserve will help to alleviate and pay off the burden of car repair and medical bills. You can give Villasenor Law Offices a call today.

Villasenor Law Offices
12396 World Trade Dr Suite 211, San Diego, CA 92128, United States

Although many of today’s seniors are aware of the importance of their health and wellbeing, their age-related disabilities are still a matter of concern to their loved ones. We may adhere to a specific life routine during our working years, but our routines can get thrown off after retirement. As they age, seniors become worried about their financial needs, and they also need more emotional and moral support at this age. And as children get occupied with their own career, lifestyle, and family, seniors may find it difficult to cope with age-related difficulties. Beyond all, health issues and disabilities seem to double as we age; many seniors find it difficult to handle their daily routine. 

What are the health concerns of seniors as they age?

The consequences of what we do to our bodies in our youth, without being careful about our physical and mental health, become visible as we age. In some cases, these healthcare mistakes turn out to be major disabilities. Moreover, there are many health issues that are common with the aging body. 

Studies reveal that most people start facing vision issues as they cross the age group of 50. The eye disorders and untreated visual impairments affect a substantial number of older adults. This condition is further worsened by hearing loss. Along with presbyopia, cataracts, and color discrimination issues, people experience problems with skin aging, dexterity, arthritis, and more. The reduced mobility after the age range of 70 to 80 makes life difficult for seniors. In these situations, they may need some assistance from the government and attorneys to ensure that they are given adequate care.

Why may seniors need to work with special needs lawyers?

Special needs attorneys are trained to understand and operate with public benefit programs. These experts conduct planning to assist families with desired financial security throughout their life. By working closely with people, special needs attorneys can also guide families with short-term and long-term lifestyle management plans so that their loved ones can live a life with dignity. 

There are many important roles that special needs lawyers need to perform to ensure a good quality of life for seniors and people with disabilities such as applying and qualifying to avail public benefits at federal and state levels. They create connections with the special needs providers in the local communities so that individuals can receive walkers, mobility aids, and important surgeries whenever needed. They are critical in the development of long-term financial security plans to maintain the life of disabled people as long as they live. They provide essential legal services and advice to senior citizens to meet their care requirements and needs for a healthy future. They can also prepare documentation for guardianships and healthcare proxies for your protection and independence. 

Therefore, seniors and disabled people are advised to consult with certified and trustworthy special needs attorneys to deal with their financial, personal, and medical care needs as they age. Special needs attorneys can help you enjoy a healthy lifestyle after retirement.

Burris Law
200 N Tustin Ave #110, Santa Ana, CA 92705, United States