James M. Andersen Attorney

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.

in criminal defense, a lawyer is only as good as the facts they can prove. No matter how skilled an attorney is in the courtroom, they can't build a solid defense without solid evidence. This is why every good defense lawyer needs a private investigator (PI) on their team.

navigating the criminal justice system can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the charges you or someone you care about may be facing. Pennsylvania has its own set of laws that define crimes and penalties, and understanding these charges is the first step in addressing them. Below, we break down some of the most common criminal charges in Pennsylvania and what they entail.

the United States legal system is built on the foundation of federalism, which establishes a balance of power between the federal government and the individual states. One principle that exemplifies this balance is the Dual Sovereignty Doctrine. This doctrine, though sometimes controversial, plays a critical role in the prosecution of crimes and the protection of justice across the country. In this blog, we will explore the origins, implications, and criticisms of the Dual Sovereignty Doctrine.

a Guide to Mississippi's probate process, outlining key steps, differences between probate with or without a will, common disputes, timelines, attorney involvement, and distinctions between probate and non-probate assets.

mississippi parents should start estate planning early, naming immediate, temporary, and permanent guardians, and securing their children’s future with affordable term life insurance and trusts. Proper planning ensures children’s care and financial support, regardless of unforeseen events.

when facing criminal charges in Pennsylvania, a defendant’s primary source of legal insight and procedural guidance is their criminal defense lawyer. The responsibility of a Pennsylvania criminal attorney extends far beyond merely representing a client in court—it involves ensuring that the client fully understands the legal process, their rights, and the possible consequences of each decision they make.

when facing criminal charges in Pennsylvania, it is essential to understand the distinction between felonies and misdemeanors. These classifications determine the severity of the offense, potential penalties, and long-term consequences for individuals convicted of a crime.

new lawyers shying away from the courtroom?

recent high-profile criminal cases in Pennsylvania