Suisman Shapiro Attorneys-at-LawSuisman Shapiro Attorneys-at-Law | New London, Connecticut2024-03-21T18:51:35Zhttps://www.suismanshapiro.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1500675/2020/03/cropped-Favicon-32x32.jpgOn Behalf of Suisman Shapiro Attorneys-at-Lawhttps://www.suismanshapiro.com/?p=528672024-03-18T05:31:23Z2024-03-21T05:30:47ZDo you need legal grounds to file for divorce in Connecticut?
Connecticut allows for both fault and no-fault grounds for divorce. Because Connecticut is a no-fault divorce state, you might think you do not need legal grounds to divorce your spouse. No-fault divorce means no one is to blame for the marriage failing, but you still need to state why you want to divorce your spouse.
For no-fault divorce in the state, the legal ground is the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage. It implies that the marriage has broken down permanently without the possibility of reconciliation. You could also use separation as a ground, but you and your spouse should have lived apart for at least 18 months. In addition to no-fault grounds, Connecticut law also provides several fault-based grounds for divorce, which include:
Adultery
Fraudulent contract
Willful desertion and neglect for one year
Seven-year absence without contact
Habitual alcoholism
Intolerable cruelty
Imprisonment for life or a crime violating conjugal duty with a sentence over one year
Confinement for mental illness for at least five years
If you choose to file for a fault-based divorce, having legal grounds will not be enough to divorce your spouse. You will need to provide evidence to support your claims, which is why a no-fault divorce is typically the more popular option.
Why do you still need legal grounds for a no-fault divorce?
A divorce legally ends a marriage contract, and the state needs a legal basis to do so. The reason helps determine the divorce process and can affect decisions like alimony and property division. If you file for a no-fault divorce, you are basically admitting that neither you nor your spouse did anything wrong. The state still needs to know why they should grant the divorce.
The requirement of legal grounds ensures that there is a clear and lawful basis for the divorce that is in line with state laws.]]>On Behalf of Suisman Shapiro Attorneys-at-Lawhttps://www.suismanshapiro.com/?p=528612024-03-14T08:56:04Z2024-03-19T08:55:34ZMany first-time home buyers rush into a home purchase because they found “the one.” This house has everything a home buyer wanted from their home and could see themselves living in it forever. This often leads to people developing buyer's remorse because a home may have a lot of issues. These issues may not be easily repairable and could cost much more than what was offered for the property. As a result, a home buyer may end up living in a fixer-upper.
No home buyer should regret making a home purchase. One way to find large issues in a home is by hiring a home inspector. A home inspector is responsible for surveying a home and revealing problems that can lower its value. Here are a few things they look for:
Damages in the foundation
One of the biggest issues a home inspector will look for is foundation damages. This may include cracking in bricks, broken or rotten support beams, sunken areas in a lawn, cracked windows or stuck doors. Any of these issues could create larger problems for home buyers in the future.
Water damage
Water damage can appear in several places. A basement with water damage may indicate that a home frequently floods or there are leaks from pipes. Water damage in the walls or ceiling may indicate that a pipe has burst or leaked. If a roof or attic has water damage, then it could be a sign of holes or weathering. Any form of water damage can lead to mold.
Exposed wires and DIY electrical work
A large problem that inspectors may find in a home is exposed wires and do-it-yourself electrical repair jobs. An exposed wire could create a fire or electrocute someone. DIY electrical repair jobs may not be done correctly, which could also lead to fires and electrocution. When a buyer finds major issues in a home, it can help them to learn about their legal options to resolve the problem.
]]>On Behalf of Suisman Shapiro Attorneys-at-Lawhttps://www.suismanshapiro.com/?p=527652024-03-21T18:51:35Z2024-03-01T05:05:37ZIn most of the developed world, the death rate from car accidents is going down. This has also been true in the United States, at least over the last 90 years or so. Between 1920 and 2010, for instance, the death rate from car accidents dropped consistently every decade.
But, in recent years, the death rate for Americans has been ticking back up. Fatal accidents are becoming more common, not less. Technology is just getting better, and increased safety is being seen around the world – but not in America. Why is this?
People drive everywhere
For one thing, the U.S. infrastructure is designed around the car. Many people drive everywhere – to work, to the store, to take children to school. In other countries, people often walk for these daily tasks, but Americans typically drive. This just increases their exposure to risk.
Drivers use their phones
Another potential issue is that drivers use their smartphones more in the United States than they do in other countries – at least in the car. Some have even suggested that American drivers are addicted to their phones, and this could be why they cause distracted driving accidents.
Less focus on safe designs
Finally, there’s some evidence that the United States is less focused on safe road designs. For instance, in Europe, governments have worked to create safer sidewalk designs, preventing pedestrian accidents. Many parts of the United States do not even have sidewalks and pedestrians have to walk on the shoulder.These are just a few potential reasons, but it’s clear that the roads are very risky. If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one, make sure you know what legal steps to take.
]]>On Behalf of Suisman Shapiro Attorneys-at-Lawhttps://www.suismanshapiro.com/?p=527552024-02-14T05:04:37Z2024-02-20T05:04:21ZWhen that decision is best for the children
If a family law judge must settle custody issues for a family, their main consideration is what is in the best interests of the children. There is a presumption that having the parents take care of the children is in their best interests, and usually, judges try to give both parents liberal amounts of time with the children and also a degree of authority for decision-making matters.
However, it is sometimes possible for one parent to convince the court that such arrangements might not benefit the children. If there is documentation supporting a claim that someone has abused or neglected their children previously, that can affect how the courts divide parenting time and other parental responsibilities.
Severe health concerns, including mental health challenges, could also influence what a judge believes is in the best interest of the children. Records of addiction-related struggles could also influence the outcome of custody litigation in Connecticut. The parent requesting sole custody typically has to have sufficient evidence affirming their claim that it would be better for the children to be solely in their care than it would be for them to spend time with both parents.
When the parents reach an agreement
Sometimes, one parent recognizes that they do not have the patience, stability or health necessary to adequately care for the children. They might agree to a scenario in which the other parent has sole custody but they have visitation access because they know that they cannot manage a shared custody arrangement properly. Even in scenarios where a judge might not agree to limit one parent's time with their children, the parents could potentially agree to that arrangement on their own through negotiations with one another.
Knowing when sole custody is a realistic request may benefit parents hoping to protect their children as they prepare for divorce. Seeking legal guidance is generally beneficial in this regard as well.]]>On Behalf of Suisman Shapiro Attorneys-at-Lawhttps://www.suismanshapiro.com/?p=527542024-02-13T06:53:54Z2024-02-16T06:53:14Zpost-divorce parenting solutions. Some food for thought may help you find clarity and a remedy that meets the needs of all.
Understanding diversity
Non-traditional family units are no longer unusual. Now they include blended families, adoptive families, single-parent and same-sex households. Each structure has needs, traditions and cultural elements that should be acknowledged, especially when addressing child-related matters.
Incorporating traditions
Children and parents alike may benefit from preserving some of the cultural traditions and celebrations they enjoyed as a family. When possible, this could involve things like continuing to attend holiday events together. At the same time, you must ensure this would align with the child's well-being and best interests.
Unexpected opportunities
Of course, divorce can bring sadness and change to families, but with it comes the chance to build new traditions as well. While this does not and should not erase past traditions, it can allow you to create meaningful experiences as a newly configured family.
Options for families
How can you obtain a parenting plan that honors diversity, culture and tradition? Parental communication and flexibility are essential. An alternative to traditional divorce may also uncover a solution.
Arbitration, handled by an unbiased party, may be an ideal way to address divorce and custody in diverse circumstances. A traditional divorce may be your preference. With experienced legal guidance, you can better determine what option is better for your family’s unique needs and goals.]]>On Behalf of Suisman Shapiro Attorneys-at-Lawhttps://www.suismanshapiro.com/?p=527512024-01-30T07:15:45Z2024-02-02T07:15:29ZIf you get injured on the job, then you likely deserve workers’ comp benefits. Your employment led to your injury, and that injury now means that you need medical care and that you may lose wages if you can’t work while you recover. Workers’ comp benefits can cover these medical costs and replace at least a portion of your wages.
But what if you have a pre-existing condition? People sometimes assume that they can’t seek workers’ compensation benefits for a pre-existing condition because the injury happened outside of work. Someone may have long-term back pain after a car accident they suffered when they were younger, for example. Since it’s not work-related, does this mean they can’t claim benefits?
Aggravating the injury
Under Connecticut law, there are actually some situations in which you can claim workers’ comp even with a pre-existing condition. You just have to show that whatever happened on the job aggravated that injury, making it worse than it was before. This may have caused pain and suffering, it may necessitate more medical care, and you can seek compensation for these costs.For example, perhaps you have always had minor back pain due to an old car accident injury, as in the hypothetical example above. But you could be trying to lift heavy items at work when you strain your back, causing a slipped disc that needs surgery. You did have a pre-existing condition, so back pain is not brand new, but you clearly made that condition much worse when you were at work.This can be a bit complicated if you’re trying to seek benefits. Be sure you know what legal steps to take.]]>On Behalf of Suisman Shapiro Attorneys-at-Lawhttps://www.suismanshapiro.com/?p=527412024-01-17T08:43:48Z2024-01-22T08:43:24ZIf your goal is to stay safe this winter, it may be wise to avoid using the cruise control. Many drivers use this every time they get on the interstate, perhaps during their daily commute. But the winter weather – and the slick roads it can create – mean that it’s time to think twice.It’s worth noting that there doesn’t have to be ice and snow on the roads to make cruise control a bad idea. Even if the roads are just wet and slippery, it can still be hazardous.
What’s the problem with cruise control?
The issue with cruise control is that it can be detrimental if you are hydroplaning on water or sliding on the ice.In these situations, drivers are usually advised not to press the brakes, which can cause them to lose control. Instead, they’re better off to just remove their foot from the gas pedal. The car will often regain control as it gradually slows down due to friction.With cruise control, however, this tactic doesn’t work. The car continues accelerating or maintains its speed, and even a second or two of extra acceleration could be enough to cause someone to lose control. They may not even realize what the issue is at first, just trying to focus on keeping their foot off of the brakes. But without also disengaging the cruise control, they could be on the verge of a serious crash.This is just one of the ways that winter weather leads to motor vehicle accidents. If you’ve been injured due to another driver’s negligence, then you may need to know how to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages and many other costs.]]>On Behalf of Suisman Shapiro Attorneys-at-Lawhttps://www.suismanshapiro.com/?p=527282024-01-03T17:57:44Z2024-01-03T06:13:35ZDivorced parents usually have schedules to follow for their parenting time. Typically, a standard schedule is used for most of the year. There’s also likely to be a special schedule for holidays. Additionally, there may be a schedule for breaks from school.
While summer still seems far away, now is the best time to get the plans for the summer together. Handling this now can give you and your children's other parent a chance to iron out any issues that might arise.
Consider each parent’s work schedule
If one parent has more time at home, they may be able to keep the children with them. If that’s not possible, now is the best time to find a babysitter or daycare if you’ll need one when the children are with you.
Factor in any extracurricular activities
Children sometimes have activities during the summer months. This must be considered when you’re trying to determine a schedule for the summer. Children will need transportation to their activities, so that may play a role in when each parent has the children.
Think about vacations
Summer vacations are another consideration for the parenting time schedule during the break from school. Vacation plans may take precedence over the regular schedule, but they’re still a factor to consider.Ultimately, you have to do what’s best for your children. Having a summer schedule that enables them to build positive memories is essential. The summer schedule you and your ex agree to should be put in writing so there aren’t any questions about when each parent will have the children. The family law attorneys at Suisman Shapiro can help put workable parenting time schedules in place.]]>On Behalf of Suisman Shapiro Attorneys-at-Lawhttps://www.suismanshapiro.com/?p=527222023-12-15T06:44:35Z2023-12-20T06:43:58ZFinding an ideal home can be exciting. But that’s only the beginning of the purchase process. You and the seller will sign an agreement confirming the transfer of ownership and other terms of the deal. You should go through the contract carefully to avoid deals that may disadvantage you later.
Below are three things to check:
Earnest money
Earnest money is the deposit you will pay to show the seller you are serious about completing the purchase. It's typically expressed as a percentage of the purchase price. Before signing the contract, confirm the price is as negotiated initially. It’s also important to check the conditions for refunding the money and when the seller can legally keep it.
Seller assist
A seller can help a buyer pay closing costs (expenses above the purchase price for finalizing a real estate deal). Seller assist can free up some money, allowing you to cover other costs, such as the first mortgage payment. That's why it's beneficial to ask for it in your offer. If the seller consented, confirm the information is included in the contract before signing. Since both of you will pay the closing costs, the agreement should also specify who will pay which costs to make the deal more manageable.
Contingency
If you or the seller is required to do something before the purchase is complete, this information should be in the contract. For example, you can request that the seller repair any issues before the purchase. The seller may also ask you to get financing within a certain period and so on.Contingencies may allow both parties to back out of the sale without penalties.It's vital to pay attention to every part of a real estate contract. The above-discussed factors are primary examples. You should also seek legal guidance to understand the agreement in-depth. ]]>On Behalf of Suisman Shapiro Attorneys-at-Lawhttps://www.suismanshapiro.com/?p=527192023-12-19T15:40:22Z2023-12-19T06:17:04ZMarried couples, especially those with children, often have to make compromises for the shared family unit. For example, one spouse may need to leave the workforce when the couple has children or when they have other family obligations that require a lot of time and energy, like caring for elderly parents.
One spouse may agree to leave their job or to work only part-time to benefit the entire family. In some cases, that decision could come back to haunt them if they cannot support themselves when the marriage ends. Both those filing for divorce and those responding to a spouse's request for divorce sometimes request alimony payments as part of the process. Connecticut alimony involves one spouse making payments to the other after the end of a marriage. How long will alimony payments typically last after the end of a marriage?
There is no set formula for alimony
In some states, the duration of the marriage directly affects the duration of the alimony order. In Connecticut, the duration of the order and the amount someone pays both depend on the discretion of a judge. Unless the spouses set their own terms through mutual agreement, a judge applies state statutes to the family's circumstances. Many Connecticut alimony orders are temporary orders. They only exist to allow someone short-term financial support as they establish a separate household and re-enter the job market. Other times, someone may no longer have marketable skills. Judges may order rehabilitative alimony to support them as they restart their careers or pursue educational opportunities to enhance their earning potential. In certain, relatively rare cases, a Connecticut family law judge could order one spouse to pay permanent alimony to the other. Judges can even require the spouse who pays alimony to obtain life insurance as a way of ensuring that the recipient spouse will receive financial support regardless of what happens to the spouse paying alimony. Alimony orders usually either indicate that they are indefinite or set a specific duration for the payments. Sometimes, alimony payments end early due to the death of either spouse or the remarriage of the recipient spouse. Learning about the rules that apply to alimony obligations in Connecticut can help people better negotiate as they prepare for divorce. The divorce and family law attorneys at Suisman Shapiro can help.]]>