General Information
Navigating custody agreements in alabama
JOINT CUSTODY - the parents share decision making as it relates to the minor child and the both parents have substantial contact with the minor child
***If the parents get along well, the courts often favor "JOINT CUSTODY"
JOINT LEGAL CUSTODY - both parents have equal rights and responsibilities for major decisions concerning the minor child.
JOINT PHYSICAL CUSTODY - does not necessary mean there is equal time spent at each parents' home, but it does mean that the minor child has SUBSTANTIAL contact with each parent.
SOLE LEGAL CUSTODY - one parent has the sole responsibility for making all major decisions involving the minor child
SOLE PHYSICAL CUSTODY - one parent has primary custody of the minor children and the other parent has visitation rights
General Information
Victim of Identity Theft
If someone has purchased something in your name or used your social security number without your permission, IMMEDIATELY file a police report, then contact EXPERIAN, EQUIFAX, and TRANSUNION and inform each agency that you would like to place a FREE credit freeze on your account. Instruct each agency that you believe you may have been the victim of identity theft. Pull a copy of all three credit reports and contact each company that is listed that states you did business with them and (you didn't) and inform them that you have been the victim of identity theft and ask them to void the purchase or transaction. Please have a copy of your police report just in case they ask for it.
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TOUCHING ON PROBATE
The Easiest Way to Transfer Property in Alabama outside of a will is: - Life Insurance (Name a Beneficiary), Retirement Proceeds (Name a Beneficiary), Deed (Right of Survivorship), Bank Accounts (Name a Beneficiary), Car (Change the title before death)........but say you did none of that and you died without a will and ---what happens? Intestate laws will generally determine the distribution of your assets.
TRUSTS: Many people inquire about placing assets in a revocable trust so that their heirs don't have to probate the estate; trust documents are complicated; each question by the trustee related to the trust will require consultation with a lawyer who generally will charge a fee. These questions generally relate to transferring assets in and out the trust. Unless there is a specific stated reason for a trust (governmental assistance, taxes, allocations to minor children, etc), trusts are not recommended for simple estates.
What we do?
Divorce and Family Law
Our law firm understands that family law matters can be emotional and stressful. We provide compassionate legal representation in a variety of family law cases, including divorce, child custody, and pre-nuptial agreements. We will work with you to achieve the best possible outcome for your family.
Estate Planning
We understand that planning for the future can be difficult, but it is important to protect your assets and your loved ones. Our law firm provides wills, power of attorney documents, and guardianship documents. We will help you plan for the future with compassion and understanding.
Personal Injury
If you have been injured due to someone else's negligence, you deserve compensation for your injuries and losses. Our law firm can assist you in negotating pre-court settlement matters related to injuries sustained at a business or in a car accident.
CONTRACT REVIEW
If you have been asked to sign a contract, our firm (for a fee) will review any contract you are asked to sign and offer advice and counsel. Many contracts have mandatory arbitration agreements, penalty provisions, and jurisdictional waivers that must be carefully considered prior to signing the contract.
LANDLORD/TENANT LAW
We understand the challenges of renting in the State of Alabama. Our law firm provides compassionate representation in situations where you may have been asked to vacate your home or apartment.
FEES
Our goal at the CARMACK LAW FIRM is to level the legal playing field. Because the goal is to increase access to an attorney, our fees are REASONABLE and you will be able to speak with the attorney and ask questions of the attorneys at our firm as long as fees are paid. Our fees may not be the cheapest in town, but they are reasonable for the level of personal attention received by each client.
General Information
Do I have to pay rent? My landlord won't fix anything and he doesn't like me. Yes.
In Alabama, the tenant may not withhold payment of rent to the landlord, while in possession, to enforce any of the tenant's rights under the law.
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Will my stuff be put out on the street?
Yes; if you don't file something in court, don't show up to court, and the court system indicates you have been properly served with papers.
General Information
What are some reasons the landlord can terminate the lease with 7 days' notice?
Manufacturing or using illegal drugs.
Discharging a firearm on the premises.
Criminal assault of a guest or tenant on the premises.