Douglas R. Smith

yes, under both federal and Pennsylvania law, police officers are legally permitted to use deception during interrogations. This includes making false statements about evidence, witnesses, or the consequences of cooperation. Such tactics are often employed to elicit confessions or admissions from suspects.

don't Make These 5 Common Mistakes Before Filing Bankruptcy.

most people see bankruptcy as a last resort — something to avoid at all costs. But in reality, bankruptcy isn’t about failure. It’s about strategy and resetting your financial life when debt has spiraled beyond control. In some cases, filing for bankruptcy is not only smart — it's the most financially responsible decision you can make.

the public's perception of what a notary does and what notarization accomplishes is often incorrect. This is particularly the case when a person brings a document to a notary public to be notarized, thinking that the notarization will in some way "legalize" the document or make it "official." Learn more here.

did you know that in many instances, it is even more important that a single person have a well-coordinated estate plan, than a married couple. This is because the default laws governing estates often work poorly for people without a spouse and may not adequately provide for a significant other or unmarried partner. Having a cohesive and well-drafted estate plan will ensure that you protect and provide for those you truly care about upon your death. Learn more here.

there are two types of guardianships: a guardianship of the person and a guardianship of the property (also known as a guardianship of the estate or a conservatorship). A guardian of the person is responsible for the ward’s physical safety and well-being. A guardian of the property is responsible for the ward’s money and assets. Learn more here.

this is an estate planning strategy I employ for my clients that helps them receive government benefits when they have a higher income. This type of trust allows certain people to be able to qualify for government benefits, such as nursing homes benefits. Learn more here.

learn how proper planning and creating multiple entities can save your sinking ship of a business.

true life, real estate horror story and how to prevent them in the future. Lawyer up before the you seal the deal!

apart from the day-to-day challenges, blended face additional hurdles when addressing their estate planning. It is estimated that more than half of U.S. families are remarried or re-coupled. If you are in this category and raising a blended family like I am, here are six pointers for protecting your family and your assets.

there are people who think that when they die while married, that everything they own will automatically go to their spouse or children. What may be the case is that they are thinking of state rules that apply if someone dies without leaving a will. In legal terms, this is referred to as “intestate.” Here are some situations of how the laws can fail many common family situations.

at the heart of asset protection, it isn't just about moving money or creating complex legal structures, but taking practical, proactive steps to mitigate risk. As an attorney who has seen firsthand the damage that lawsuits can inflict on unprepared individuals, I want to emphasize a critical yet often overlooked step in protecting your assets: obtaining sufficient insurance coverage before a lawsuit ever becomes a reality. You don’t anticipate getting sued, but life is unpredictable. Learn more here.

while most truly wealthy professionals & business owners make high incomes, it’s how they mold a protective shield around their money that makes and keeps them firmly in their category. They have found a way to mold the clay they were given, become rich and stayed that way as a result of the shields of protection built into their estates. Learn more here.

whether you have significant wealth or not, an estate plan is essential. Don’t let the term “estate” mislead you. An estate isn’t reserved for the ultra-wealthy or those with vast assets. A solid estate plan doesn’t just help you—it’s an act of care for your family. Learn more here.

being sued by a credit card company? Learn your legal options, including how bankruptcy can help. Get experienced guidance from West Legal Group.

struggling with debt? Learn the key differences between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy, and find out which option suits your financial needs. Brought to you by West Legal Group.

"Los Angeles County's Special Coastal District Zoning Laws" by Newport Beach Real Estate Attorneys

driving under the influence (DUI) checkpoints are a common law enforcement tool used to catch impaired drivers before they can cause harm. However, many drivers in Pennsylvania may not fully understand their rights and responsibilities when encountering these checkpoints. If you or someone you know is facing DUI charges from a checkpoint stop, it’s crucial to know the law and how to protect yourself.

receiving a speeding ticket in Pennsylvania can indeed impact your automobile insurance premiums. Insurance companies view speeding violations as indicators of increased risk, which often leads to higher rates. On average, Pennsylvanians may see their insurance premiums rise by approximately 19% following a speeding ticket. However, this percentage can vary based on factors such as the severity of the offense, your previous driving record, and the specific policies of your insurance provider.​

if you're pulled over by the police in Pennsylvania, it's important to know your rights. Many drivers feel pressure to answer every question or comply with every request, but the Constitution protects you from overreach. Here's what you are and aren't required to answer during a traffic stop in the Keystone State.