The basic definition of a power of attorney is a legal document in which you give someone else the power to act for you in specified ways. Two common types are a financial power of attorney and medical power of attorney. In Texas, we have a statutory durable power of attorney frequently used when needing a financial power of attorney because its form is approved by statute and offers some protections for those relying on it. A power of attorney is often referred to as a “POA”. A Financial Power of Attorney In this document, you name someone you trust … [Read more...]
Divorce Mistakes
Going through a divorce is stressful. There are many decisions that need to be made about property division, child custody, child support, and more. Sometimes, in the turmoil of decision-making, mistakes are made. At the law firm of Springer & Lyle, we guide you through the process with a keen eye to avoid some of the common mistakes. Division of Community Property Texas is a community property state which means that all property acquired during the marriage belongs to both parties. Property owned by one party prior to the marriage generally remains that person’s separate property … [Read more...]
Texting, Social Media and Divorce
Going through a divorce is indeed a difficult emotional experience. It is tempting to post status updates to your friends on social media. You want to vent about injustices you feel from your soon-to-be ex-spouse. You may say something you plan on doing to get revenge. You are tempted to post photos that you hope may make him or her jealous. At Springer & Lyle, we strongly urge you to completely avoid social media during your divorce proceedings. No Matter Your Privacy Settings, Your Social Media Postings Can Be Used Against You You may wonder how a … [Read more...]
Things You Should Not Do After An Auto Accident
If you are one of the thousands of people involved in a car accident in Texas, you may know of some things you should do after a vehicle crash, but there are also some things you should not do. Certain actions, or failure to take an action, may be fatal to a later personal injury claim for damages. What Not to Do After a Car Accident There are some real specific things you should not do after a car accident. A few of them are: Do not flee the accident scene. This may seem like a no-brainer, but if it was a low impact accident, some drivers may just drive away. Do not do this. You … [Read more...]
Estate Planning: What Do I Need to Know?
When you hear the term “estate planning,” you may assume it refers to having a will. A will is part of estate planning, but there are many other specific documents you need to consider when planning how your assets will be distributed after your death. At Springer & Lyle, our estate planning attorneys will help you decide which tools are best for you as an individual. Documents to Consider Will. A will is essential to estate planning. It is a written document in which you articulate how you want your assets distributed; in other words, which heir gets which asset. … [Read more...]
Top Five Things To Look For When Hiring A Personal Injury Attorney
Many lawyers hold themselves out as personal injury attorneys, but what are the top 5 things to look for in hiring a personal injury lawyer? You'll find all of those qualities here at Springer & Lyle. Here's what we have that other "personal injury lawyers" don't. Experience You want somebody who focuses his or her practice on personal injury law and is respected by judges, insurance adjusters and defense attorneys. Personal injury is a highly complex branch of the law. A medical malpractice case is much different from an 18-wheeler case, workers’ compensation, premises … [Read more...]
What Is A Recorded Statement and Should I Give One?
If you are in a collision on the road, the first thing you might think of is talking to an insurance agent. The insurance company for the other driver involved will likely be eager to have their insurance adjuster speak with you as quickly as possible and get you on the record with a recorded statement. A recorded statement is a Q & A session of what happened during the accident and what your injuries are, that is recorded by the insurance company adjuster, usually over the phone. At Springer & Lyle, we would definitely advise against giving a recorded … [Read more...]
Co-Parenting in Texas
Texas family law stresses the importance of parenting after a divorce. Like the Texas divorce courts, the family law attorneys at Springer & Lyle will look out for the best interests of the children who will be affected by a divorce. We will help you develop a strong parenting plan, one that encourages co-parenting. Co-parenting in Texas Co-parenting is neither a rule nor a law; it is a concept about post-divorce child rearing. Many couples in the midst of a divorce believe that after it’s all over, they will never have to deal with their former spouse again. This is … [Read more...]
Is the Truck Driver or the Trucking Company Liable in a Truck Accident?
If you have been involved in an accident involving a truck or 18-wheeler, you will want to seek help from a law firm experienced in handling commercial truck liability cases. At Springer & Lyle, we have helped hundreds of people receive just compensation despite some of the issues involved with determining who is really at fault in a truck accident; the driver or the company itself. To determine liability in a trucking accident, the law considers several different factors. One important factor is whether federal or state regulations governing the trucking industry are involved. For … [Read more...]
How Do I Contest a Will?
Contesting a will involves overcoming challenging legal burdens and difficult and long-standing family discord. The law limits who can contest the will and the circumstances under which the will can be deemed invalid. At Springer & Lyle, we understand these emotional difficulties and work with you to be sure contesting the will is in your best interest. Only an “Interested Person” Can Contest a Will According to Texas law, only an interested person may contest the terms of the will. An interested person is generally one who is an … [Read more...]