Bucks County Magazine's Annual Legal Guide

ANNUAL LEGAL GUIDE Bucks County Magazine’s

When To Seek Legal Advice

M

ost people think that they only need a lawyer in an extreme situation. You were the last person to leave work the night before and police are at your door because that boss who didn’t give you the promotion was found slouched over his desk from a bullet wound to the heart. Or you go for carpal tunnel surgery, and the hospital makes a mistake and you end up with a triple bypass. Other than such extreme situations, you figure that you can do without legal representation.

There are, however, plenty of reasons you may need a lawyer and most of them are not extreme in the least. There are areas of life that involve legalities where a lawyer isn’t called for, like dealing with a parking ticket or paying a fine for not shoveling the snow on your sidewalk. However there are many things that involve severe consequences and could result in broken agreements, loss of income and even jail time.

HERE IS A LIST OF SOME COMMON REASONS TO SEEK LEGAL ADVICE: Injuries: Auto accident, defective product, or a medical practitioner.

Administrative Problems: A zoning variance, workman’s compensation, regulatory violations that carry a stiff fine or other penalties.

Financial: Bankruptcy, business indebtedness, selling a business, business collections, law suits by employees, not being paid for services, not getting settlement from insurance company.

Criminal: DUI, domestic violence, possession of illegal substance, juvenile offences.

Family Problems: Divorce, child support, child custody.

Trusts: Wills, powers of attorney, advance directives.

A competent attorney can navigate the complexities of our legal system as your advocate and can make sure that you get the best results depending for your situation. The Website www.hire alawyer.findlaw.com lists 10 reasons to hire a lawyer instead of trying to act on your on behalf.

1. The law is complicated. If you are not a lawyer you probably have no business acting like one in certain instances. Even experienced lawyers typically do not represent themselves in court. A solid case can quickly unravel without the help of a trained and emotionally detached attorney. Similarly, failing to hire a lawyer when starting a business, reviewing a contract or embarking on other endeavors with potential legal ramifications can result in otherwise avoidable pitfalls.

2. Not having a lawyer may actually cost you more. What is at stake? A criminal case may determine whether or not you spend time behind bars, while a civil case could hurt you financially. Besides, many civil attorneys don't collect a dime unless they win your case. Also, you may be able to claim legal fees as a plaintiff in a civil case, so hiring a lawyer can actually save or make you money.

3. Lawyers know how to challenge (and sometimes suppress) evidence. You may not even know that a key piece of evidence against you was improperly obtained or that the testimony of a witness contradicts an earlier statement. And did the crime lab properly handle the evidence every step of the way? Your attorney will find out.

4. Attorneys understand how to properly file court documents and handle other legal procedures. If you're not an attorney, you may struggle with the deadlines and protocol for properly filling out and filing certain legal documents. One late or incorrect filing could derail your case, delay a given

WE CARE WHAT HAPPENS TO YOU

A

t Shelly Law Offices, LLC, Carol A. Shelly is a trial lawyer with a well-earned reputation for aggressive representation. Insurance companies don't roll over easily. While some attorneys may aim for a good-enough settlement for medical bills, lost wages and other expenses, our firm keeps pushing until we achieve the best possible result. For us, good enough isn't good enough.

We pursue every possible avenue of compensation and prepare from the beginning assuming that your case could go to trial. Even if it doesn't, our meticulous preparation and unyielding approach helps us secure the maximum possible compensation for every case.

If you or a loved one has been in a serious accident, we understand that your life has likely been turned upside down. Your normal life patterns have been disrupted, and the future you had envisioned could be permanently altered.

We are sensitive to the highly personal and emotional nature of serious accidents, and provide an understanding ear as well as strong legal representation. This could be the most important fight of your life. We respect what you're going through and look forward to learning how we can help you prevail in this difficult time.

Carol A. Shelly. More than 30 years experience.

AUTO ACCIDENTS

MEDICAL MALPRACTICE WRONGFUL DEATH

TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY PREMISES LIABILITY

OUR

DECADES OF EXPERIENCE TRANSLATES INTO

EFFICIENT

&

POWERFUL RESOLUTION FOR YOUR CASE.

After a serious accident, you need the strongest legal help you can get as soon as possible. Carol A. Shelly is a seasoned trial lawyer with a reputation for aggressive representation.

70 West Oakland Ave., Doylestown, PA • 267-454-7940 • www.shelly-law.com

legal procedure or worse—have the case thrown out altogether (and not in your favor).

5. Because you don't know any expert witnesses or private detectives. Attorneys depend on an extended network of professionals to help their clients' cases. Most non-attorneys do not personally know the types of professionals who can help with discovery or challenge evidence or testimony by the opposing party.

lawyer will.

8. A good lawyer can strike up a good settlement offer or plea bargain, if necessary. An experienced lawyer probably has seen cases similar to yours or at least knows enough to make a calculated guess about how it might resolve at trial. Sometimes a settlement is the best choice, while other times it makes more sense to see your case through to trial.

6. You're not sure how to plead—or what a 'pleading' is?

Pleading guilty is not the only choice, even if there is evidence pointing directly at you. An attorney who understands the law will be best situated to explain your options and can help you avoid potentially severe penalties even before a criminal trial begins.

9. The other party has legal representation. Non-attorneys are generally at a disadvantage when squaring off against opposing counsel or doing business with another party that has legal counsel. As explained above, the law is complicated and an attorney representing your adversary (or even a non-adversarial party entering into a legal agreement with you) will take advantage of this inequity.

7. Because it is probably better to avoid problems in the first place rather than try to fix them once they arise. You may have heard the saying "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure?" Well, hiring a lawyer in many instances will help you avoid potential legal headaches down the road. Do you really understand the fine print of that contract you are signing? A

10. Lawyers often provide a free initial consultation. Since many attorneys will meet with you for free during a face-to-face consultation, there is really no harm in talking with one. Not only will a free consultation give you an idea of the type of case you have, it will help you decide whether you actually need to hire a lawyer.

Shelly Law Offices, LLC And Car Insurance Options

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ptions, options, options. Once you seek out insurance from one of the many auto insurance companies out there, you will be presented with many options to protect yourself and your family. First, you will need to choose monetary amounts which will cover you if you’re found legally accountable for an accident which causes bodily injury or property damage to another. Second, you will need to decide if you want or need comprehensive or collision coverage for physical damage to your own motor vehicle, regardless of fault. Third, you will need to choose from the many insurance options available if you are injured. You have the option to choose the amount of benefits you want for medical expenses, funeral benefits and wage loss benefits. You also have the option to select one of the most important forms of coverage, unin-

sured/underinsured motorist benefits, which will protect you if you’re involved in an accident where the at fault party is either uninsured or doesn’t carry enough insurance to cover the costs related to your bodily injury (or property damage). You will be presented with the option to choose from limited or full tort coverage. Limited tort coverage may be less expensive, but it limits your rights to seek financial compensation for pain and suffering due to injury from an accident. Selecting the full tort option allows you retain unrestricted rights. At Shelly Law Offices, LLC we have the experience and the knowledge to help you interpret your auto insurance policy after you are involved in an accident and to secure for you the compensation you deserve. Even better, we know how important it is for you to consider your options carefully before that acci-

dent happens. Shelly Law Offices, LLC, 70 West Oakland Ave., Doylestown, PA; 267-454-7940; www.shelly-law.com.

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We emphasize mediation instead of expensive litigation!

WoosleyNaragon.com

Welcome to the Woosley Naragon law

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you regain your peace of mind even

though you’re dealing with challenging

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Our law offices are located right next to

David Woosley

• • • •

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Woosley Naragon, LLC, the Finish Up Experts

E. Garrett Gummer, Elder Law

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become disheartened that their case has not advanced as

O

they had reasonably hoped. Our reputation is based upon

preparation of Wills, Powers of Attorney, Living Wills, and

commitment to personal service and we work individually

Trusts. Also, our attorneys can assist with Guardianships,

and personally to help identify solutions that will meet

Medicaid (Asset Protection) Planning, Probate, Estate

your needs. Although we stress mediation instead of

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expensive litigation, if we need to go to court we will dili-

ters. Our many satisfied clients appreciate our unique legal

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ing. This attitude, combined with our professionalism, is why

divorce done right. Woosley Naragon LLC is located at 72

E. Garrett Gummer, III is one of Pennsylvania’s “Super

North Main Street, Doylestown, PA 18901. Visit

Lawyers” in the practice of elder law. Gummer Elder Law

www.woosleynaragon.com or call us for a free initial

has offices at 1260 Bustleton Pike, Feasterville, PA 19053;

phone consultation. 215-230-7776.

215-396-1001 and 220 Farm Lane, Suite 201, Doylestown,

e've earned our reputation as the "finish-

up" experts; many of our clients contact us, frustrated and discouraged, after they've

ur compassionate, caring and experienced attorneys help seniors and their family members navigate the difficult and complex requirements neces-

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PA 18901; 215-345-5858. For more information, visit www.gummerelderlaw.com.

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B U C K S C O U NTY M A G . C O M

780 Newtown-Yardley Road, Suite 310A Newtown, PA 18940 215.860.3747 / www.thomassmithfirm.com DIVORCE • COLLABORATIVE PROCESS

“Focused on You”

MEDIATION • APL • ALIMONY

CUSTODY • EQUITABLE DISTRIBUTION

GRANDPARENT’S RIGHTS • POST NUPTIAL AGREEMENTS • CHILD SUPPORT

Our principle goal is to inform, educate and advocate for clients, utilizing an innovative approach to achieve powerful results Serving Bucks, Montgomery and Philadelphia Counties Tiffany Thomas-Smith, Esquire and her legal team are your family law specialists.

For a consultation call 215.860.3747 visit our website at www.thomassmithfirm.com email info@thomassmithfirm.com

D

in

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Tiffany Thomas Smith

ivorce, separation and custody disputes are very difficult life experiences.

These issues are particularly sensitive because it involves families and children and exposure to very personal aspects of your life. Family law attorneys have a responsibility to be sensitive to these realities for their clients. At the Thomas Smith Firm your protection and privacy is our priority.

Our client’s interest comes first. We are focused on you. We provide client centered, quality legal services with integrity, professionalism and respect for our clients. Our principle goal is to inform, educate and advocate, utilizing innovative approaches to achieve powerful results. We guide and educate clients of their options, including mediation and Collaborative Law, in resolving family law disputes. Our office is conveniently located in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Our attorneys are well versed in the law and we pride ourselves on our dedication and accessibility to our clients.

We are dedicated to quality customer service. We counsel clients in all aspects of family law including divorce, support, custody, equitable distribution in Bucks, Montgomery and Philadelphia Counties. Schedule an appointment with Tiffany Thomas-Smith at 215-860-3747 or info@thomassmithfirm.com. Find out more about our services at www.thomassmithfirm.com.

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Keith J. Williams, Esq., Bucks County Defense Attorney

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B U C K S C O U NTY M A G . C O M

ith 35 years of experience, Bucks County attorney, Keith J. Williams, Esq., is dedicated to defending and protecting the rights of the accused and their presumption of innocence through aggressive, award-winning criminal defense. “I believe everyone deserves the best possible representation available regardless of age, race, sexual orientation or economic circumstance. Providing aggressive, effective and reasonably-priced advice, counsel and representation to all my clients, I’m always here to help in your time of need.”

Located in the heart of Doylestown, Keith’s practice focuses on representing individuals in a variety of legal matters including: Criminal Defense, DUI Defense, Juvenile Defense and Traffic Violations Defense. In addition, Keith has received accolades from the Bucks County Bar Association for overall outstanding legal representation efforts and successful litigation skills, earning him two Bucks County Lawyer of the Year Awards: The Justice Award and The Star of the Year Award. Keith is distinguished for working closely with his clients throughout the entire legal process, including court proceedings, negotiations, hearings and trials. Keith J. Williams, Esq. is located at 18 E Oakland Avenue, Doylestown, PA 18901 and 1007 W Broad Street, Quakertown, PA 18951. For more information, call Keith J. Williams at 215-340-1134 or visit www.keithjwilliamslaw.com.

CUSTODY

AND

ADOPTION LAWYERS

HANDLING ALL MATTERS INVOLVING CHILDREN INCLUDING DIVORCE • CUSTODY PRENUPTIAL AGREEMENTS CUSTODY • SUPPORT ESTATES & PROBATE • REAL ESTATE LAW LANDLORD TENANT LAW Our firm believes that no matter

what legal trouble you encounter, you should not encounter it uninformed or alone.

Handing legal matters in both PA and NJ

Custody

Karen Ulmer Pendergast

CALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION

215-752-6200 KAREN ANN ULMER, P.C. ATTORNEYS AT LAW

Adoptions

April M. Townsend

We Are On Your Side

174 Middletown Boulevard, Suite 300, Langhorne, PA 19047

www.ulmerlaw.com

Karen Ann Ulmer, P.C., Attorneys at Law

T

he attorneys at the law firm of Karen Ann Ulmer, P.C. are powerful advocates with the skill and experience to protect your rights and reach your goals. We are compassionate counselors and work hard to achieve longterm workable solutions that move you forward. Our firm provides advice and representation in divorce and family law matters. We are known for finding creative solutions to challenging legal problems whether that is through mediation and collaborative law or requires a trial and appeal. Because your situation is unique, we take the time to listen to understand your concerns and goals. We are then able to provide

practical legal advice tailored to you. It may be possible to reach a negotiated outcome. Other cases require litigation to protect your interests and achieve your goals. When possible, we utilize alternative dispute resolution, including mediation. Whether your concern is related to a simple divorce, complex property division, child custody, child support, alimony or domestic violence, we are on your side. Karen Ann Ulmer, P.C., Attorneys at Law, 174 Middletown Blvd., Suite 300, Langhorne, PA. Take the first step and call our firm at 215-752-6200 for a confidential consultation. Visit us at www.ulmerlaw.com.

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LIEBMANN FAMIL LY Y LA AW W Family Law Attorneys Fa DIVORCE • PRENUPTIAL AGREEMENTS CUSTODY & SUPPORT • LGBTQ LA AW W ESTA ATTES & PROBA ATTE • ADOPTION DOMESTIC VIOLENCE • ELDER LA AW W • PA ATTERNITY GR RA ANDPPA ARENTS’ RIGHTS • WILLS

Free initial consultation.

Fr Weekend and Evening A We Apppointments Available.

4T Teerry Drive, Suite 4, Newtown, P PA A 18940

(215) 860-8200 David J. Sowerbutts,.Mindy J. Sn nyyderr,, Jefffrrey A. Liebmann.

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www.liebmannffaamilylaw w..com

Liebmann Family Law

iebmann Family Law in Newtown was founded in 2008 and is one of a handful of firms in Bucks County that focuses exclusively on family law and related issues: Contested and uncontested divorce, child custody and visitation, child support, spousal support and alimony; pre-nuptial and postnuptial agreements, Division of property, wills and estate planning; probate of wills, grandparents’ rights, and adoption. The Liebmann Family Law Team includes three full-time attorneys: Jeffrey A. Liebmann, David Sowerbutts, and Mindy J. Snyder, as well as four legal assistants. Each of the attorneys has more than 25 years of Family Law experience, and are known for their special skills and knowledge, as well as handling cases with a great deal of care and compassion. The firm has created an atmosphere in which any one of the attorneys can step in and handle any emergency, and each of them has access to all the files to answer any questions that arise throughout a case. The attorneys of the firm appear in Bucks and the surrounding counties, including New Jersey. Please contact the office to schedule an initial free consultation. Liebmann Family Law is located at The Atrium, 4 Terry Drive, Suite 4, Newtown, PA 18940. For more information, call 215-860-8200 or visit www.Liebmannfamilylaw.com.

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