Why Pursuing a Wrongful Death Claim Is Worth It – Guest Post

   

Wrongful Death Claim

There is nothing more traumatizing than the death of a loved one. When that death seems like it could have been prevented, the trauma can be even worse. Although the sadness and depression that may follow such a tragic death can be a lot to handle, you should always consider pursuing a wrongful death claim if you believe another party was at fault. It might feel unnecessary or even impossible, but below are reasons you should still consider going through with it.

You Can Hold the Responsible Party Accountable

In wrongful death lawsuits, you bring people you believe were responsible for your loved one’s death to task in order to receive compensation. However, the incident itself may have not technically been a crime. Still, people that cause the needless deaths of others should be held accountable in a just society. A wrongful death lawsuit can help do that, bringing attention to what happened and who is responsible. It also can prevent the responsible party from ever being in a position to allow something like that to happen again.

It Can Help Save You From Financial Ruin

Although it may not be what you think about immediately, the financial toll the loss of a loved one can have on a family can be quite extreme. This is especially the case if that person supported the family and had dependents. In this scenario, contacting a wrongful death attorney may be one of the only working strategies you have for maintaining the same quality of living as you had before.

It Can Help Protect Your Family’s Future

After the loss of a loved one, the future of a family may be unclear. This can even include the future of dependents of that loved one like children. However, with a wrongful death settlement or jury award, that future can be much clearer and more positive. You’ll have the money you’ll need to keep your home, vehicles, and other important possessions. You’ll also have the money you will need to pay for your children’s education and your own retirement.

It Can Help Others

If you are successful in your lawsuit, you can help others by helping to stop similar accidents from happening in the future. Lawsuits against companies and individuals can be quite costly for those that are sued. As such, they are likely to take much more care to prevent the negligence that leads to your loved one’s death in the first place. This can help save others.

The death of a loved one can have a huge negative impact on the lives of a family. It can feel even worse when you know another party was at fault. If this is the case for you, certainly consult with a lawyer regarding your options for launching a wrongful death lawsuit.

What to Consider When Getting Bail Bonds in the City of College Park? – Guest Post

  

Bail Bonds in the City of College Park

College Park, located in Fulton County, Georgia, has about 30,000 residents. Reports state that your chances of getting involved in a crime are one out of 52.

If you’ve been arrested for any reason and are waiting for your bail hearing, you may be wondering what to do next. One of the best options is to call a bail bond agent. A bail bond agent can help get you out of jail quickly and make the process much easier.

The following article will explain ten things to consider while getting bail bonds in the City of College Park.

What Are Bail Bonds?

When a person is arrested, they have the opportunity to post bail to be released until their court date. A judge’s bail is announced and is usually a percentage of the total bond amount.

If the defendant can’t afford to pay the bail amount, they can get help from a bail bondsman. Bail bond companies will post the bail on behalf of the defendant for a fee.

For example, if the bail is set at $5000, the bail bondsman will charge $500 to post the bond. The company will also require collateral, property, cash, or jewelry.

  1. How Much Will The Bail Bond Cost?

Bail bonds are not cheap. The cost can range from around ten percent of the bail amount to fifty percent.

Before you sign any paperwork, be sure to ask about all associated fees. There may also be a minimum fee charged, even if the bond is for a minimal amount.

The cost depends on the following factors:

-The severity of the crime

-The amount of bail

-Your financial situation

Some companies for bail bonds in the City of College Park offer payment plans, making the process more affordable. You may also use a co-signer to help with the cost. A co-signer is someone who agrees to be responsible for the bail bond if you do not show up for your court date.

If you cannot pay the total amount, ask about a payment plan or co-signer options.

  1. How Long Will It Take to Process The Bail Bond?

Once you’ve agreed to terms and signed the paperwork, the bail bond company will post the bond with the court. The process takes a few hours but can take up to a day.

Be sure to ask how long it will take before you’re released from jail.

In some situations, the defendant may be released on their recognizance. It means they don’t have to post bail and will be released once they’ve been arraigned in court.

If the defendant fails to get released on their recognizance, they must go through the normal bail process.

  1. Will Collateral Be Needed?

Collateral means that you’ve put up something of value to guarantee that you will show up for your court date.

The bail bond company may require collateral before they post the bond. The amount of collateral needed will depend on the amount of the bail and the perceived risk of a defendant not showing up for their court date.

 If you can’t provide collateral, some companies may still post the bond but charge a higher premium. Be sure to ask about collateral before you sign any paperwork.

  1. Can The Defendant Leave The State While Out On Bail?

The crime rate in College Park, GA, is 221.10 percent higher than the national average. Hence, it is essential to consider all aspects of the city before deciding.

The defendant may leave the state while out on bail, but it depends on the judge’s order. If the defendant cannot leave the state, they must surrender their passport to the bail bond company.

If you’re planning on traveling, be sure to check with the bail bond company first.

  1. Are There Restrictions On Who Can Bail The Defendant Out Of Jail?

In most cases, anyone over 18 can bail someone out of jail. The bail bond company will require identification and ask for your relationship with the defendant.

You may be asked to provide collateral if you’re not related to the defendant.

  1. What Is The Defendant’s Responsibility While Out On Bail?

The defendant must show up for all their court dates. If they miss a date, the bail bond company may revoke the bond and put the defendant back in jail.

They must also obey all laws and not commit any new crimes.

  1. How Long Will The Bail Bond Be In Effect?

The bail bond is usually good for one year. If the defendant does not show up for their court date, the bail bond company may pursue legal action to recover the money they paid for the bond.

Conclusion

Bail bonds in College Park can be a great way to get your loved one out of jail, but there are some things you need to consider before you sign anything. Ensure you understand the process and the risks involved, and always work with a reputable bail bond company.

Shoplifting: Misdemeanor or Felony? – Guest Post

  

Shoplifting

While technology has allowed retail stores and other businesses to improve security with the help of CCTVs or video surveillance systems, shoplifting continues to be a common occurrence in many parts of the United States. Considered a property crime, it affects businesses across the country, costing them billions of dollars every year.

What is Shoplifting?

Shoplifting is the act of going into a store with the intent of obtaining items or goods by deceiving the store and its personnel. The following situations all describe different shoplifting scenarios:

-When a person removes an item or product from a display and leaves the store without paying for it

-When a person hides or conceals an item or items

-When a person alters, substitutes, disfigures, or removes the price tags, labels, or marks of items or goods

-When a person charges the payment of certain goods to someone without their consent or to a person who does not exist

-When a person transfers goods from one bottle, container, or box to another before purchasing the items

A person who is caught shoplifting can be charged with a misdemeanor or arrested for committing a felony theft. The law is different from state to state, so what constitutes a misdemeanor for some may be a felony for others. This can be scary and confusing for first-time offenders, which is why the guidance, expertise, and service of a theft lawyer are vital.

A lawyer’s expert legal advice will also help determine whether a shoplifter committed a misdemeanor or felony.

Shoplifting As a Misdemeanor

A misdemeanor is described as a lesser crime or a minor offense. According to the federal government, any crime given a maximum sentence of one year or less is considered a misdemeanor. The classification of misdemeanors and their corresponding penalties differ according to state.

Examples of misdemeanor crimes include vandalism, driving without a license, indecent exposure, disorderly conduct, basic assault (i.e., when someone hurts another individual without intending to injure them), trespassing, and petty theft or shoplifting.

In most states, the value of the stolen items is used to determine whether the crime is a misdemeanor or not. In Arizona, for example, a shoplifting crime is considered a misdemeanor if the stolen goods are worth less than $1,000. There are exceptions, though, such as:

  • If the shoplifting act happened as a part of a crime spree
  • If the shoplifting was carried out to help or promote a criminal group or gang
  • If the stolen goods included firearms
  • If the theft was committed using a device, instrument, container, or artifice

Typically, if a shoplifter is convicted for a misdemeanor, they are fined and given several months to one year of jail time. Second convictions, specifically those that happen two years after the first one, are given higher penalties, such as a sentence intended for class 6 felonies.

Aside from fines and jail time, misdemeanor shoplifters are also required to repay the value of the goods they stole and join a shoplifting class. Some shoplifters also get probation, which is considered a minimum penalty.

Shoplifting penalties are also based on several factors, including the case details, the store where the stealing happened, the prosecutor, and the judge.

Shoplifting As a Felony

As in misdemeanor cases, the value of the stolen goods is used to determine if a shoplifting crime is a felony. If the amount is over the minimum limit or price, the crime becomes felony shoplifting.

A felony is defined as a crime that typically involves a violent act or violence. It is one of the most serious crimes anyone can commit and results in jail time lasting one or more years. Some examples of a felony include arson, first-degree murder, drug trafficking, and murder.

Felony crimes are divided into several classifications depending on the offenses and their corresponding penalties and punishments.

An act of shoplifting becomes a felony if:

  • The criminal act happened as a part of a crime spree
  • The crime was carried out to help or promote a criminal group or gang
  • The stolen goods included firearms
  • The crime was committed using a device, instrument, container, or artifice

Generally, if a person caught shoplifting took goods with a total value of $500 to $1,000, they can be charged with a felony. The amount, though, can vary from one state to another.

Aside from the typical shoplifting felony, a person can also be convicted of a categorical felony. This happens when they steal items that can result in a felony charge regardless of the stolen goods’ value. These items include incendiary devices, firearms, and explosives. If a person is caught shoplifting firearms or some form of explosives, they can be charged with a felony crime.

Penalties for felony shoplifting depend on the classification of the crime. For example, in Arizona, a Class 6 Felony would result in four months to two years of prison time, and probation while a Class 4 Felony can put the shoplifter in jail for one to 3.75 years and probation.

If you have been charged with shoplifting – whether as a misdemeanor or felony – find a lawyer experienced in theft cases if you want the charges against you reduced or dropped.

About the Author

Stephanie Gordon currently works as the Content Marketing Strategist for the Arizona Criminal Law Team. Aside from spreading awareness about criminal law and defense, she enjoys reading and trail running with her family and friends.

Know Your Rights: What You Should Understand When Getting Arrested – Guest Post

   

When Getting Arrested

Getting arrested is a situation most of us never expect to happen. However, if you’re not prepared for this life-changing moment, your actions can completely change the trajectory of your life. Make sure your rights are protected if you’re ever arrested by keeping the following information in mind.

Stay Calm

Getting arrested may seem daunting, but it’s not the end of the world. It’s important to understand that you have certain rights, whether you are guilty or not. Use this information to keep you calm during an arrest. Remember to avoid physical confrontation with police, ask questions to learn why you’re being arrested, and make sure to tell your side of the story to authorities to protect yourself later. Remember to stay calm and reasonable without forgetting your rights. You don’t want to do anything to get yourself into even more trouble.

Understand the Miranda Warning

The Miranda warning legally must be given by police when they arrest you. This statement will help to protect you during your arrest. Your Miranda rights indicate that if your case ends up in court, the judge can use what you say during your arrest as evidence against you. This is a good reason to not say anything outside of what is necessary without a lawyer present. Even if tempted to defend yourself, choose your words carefully, as they can be misinterpreted and used against you later on.

Consult an Attorney Right Away

If you’re arrested, an important way to avoid costly mistakes is to consult with an attorney that specializes in your particular situation. For instance, if you’ve been arrested for drunk driving, contact a DWI attorney as soon as possible. If you can’t afford one, look into free or inexpensive legal services and explore your options for applying for financial aid. If all else fails, you have the right to an attorney assigned to you by the state. An attorney can help ensure that you protect your legal rights and help make sure that you protect yourself against false accusations.

Contact Family and Friends

If you can’t call an attorney in the situation of a potential arrest, you should let a loved one know about your situation. Even if your friends and family don’t have legal expertise, their support will make a difference in helping you navigate the stressful situation. If possible, designate one person to be your go-to emergency contact for anyone to call in case of legal trouble.

If you are arrested, it helps to know your emergency contact’s information by heart. This way, you can use your one phone call to reach out to your loved one and get help as soon as possible. Hopefully, your contact will be able to make bail and get you out of jail sooner than later.

Getting arrested can be an extremely stressful situation, and with the stakes being so high, it’s important to know what your rights are. Keep these four things in mind if you are ever arrested or in trouble with the police.