Family Law & Criminal Defense Lawyers in Battle Creek, MI

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Criminal defense is among our specialties. However, many people don't know what to expect when they hire a defense lawyer. Here are some of our most frequently asked questions:

Criminal defense is among our specialties. However, many people don't know what to expect when they hire a defense lawyer. Here are some of our most frequently asked questions:

When you choose a criminal defense lawyer, you should expect him or her to have advanced knowledge of the law and plenty of experience defending those with similar charges. Make sure you know where your attorney's expertise lies.  

After arrest, the police record personal information and check for criminal history. Once they've compiled this information, the police will file a criminal complaint, and the arrested individual will need to appear in court.  

No. According to the United States Constitution, you have the right to remain silent, save for basic information about yourself. 

Once criminal charges have been filed, you'll need to appear for an arraignment. Bail and conditions of release will be determined upon a not-guilty plea.  

Warrants are removed once you've appeared in court. However, another warrant may be issued for lack of compliance in court. 

Customers have questions, you have answers. Display the most frequently asked questions, so everybody benefits.

 Family law is another of our specialties at Podolsky and Wickham, PLLC. Learn more from our frequently asked questions below. 

In the event of a divorce, it's a good idea to get an attorney. You want someone on your side to protect your rights.  

Divorce is typically categorized as no-fault or fault. No-fault divorces may cite irreconcilable differences or compatibility, while a fault-based divorce might involve adultery or a crime.  

Both parties of the divorce may divide their property as they want. However, disputes may be decided by the court.  

Courts consider a wide variety of factors contributing to the best interests of the child when determining who gets custody.  

Guidelines differ depending on your state. In most cases, the parent who spends the least time with the child will pay child support.  

Grandparents may petition the court for visitation rights. 

Estate planning is tricky if you don't have an experienced attorney on your side. Podolsky and Wickham, PLLC is here to answer all your questions. 

In short, estate planning refers to making arrangements for someone's property after his or her death.  

Estate planning is a crucial tool that allows individuals to decide who will benefit from their property once they're gone.  

Legally, you don't need a will. However, it's a good idea so that your family knows how to distribute your property and assets after you've passed away.  

While guidelines vary by state, in most cases, property is passed by the state to the next of kin. This may be a spouse, child, parent, or another relative.  

Probate refers to the court's process of carrying out a will and handling disputes that sometimes arise.  

We advise that you try to avoid probate. The process can last more than a year and may not result in much closure for the heirs to the estate.  

Power of attorney gives a particular person the authority to make decisions on your behalf should you become incapable of handling your own affairs. Our family law attorneys can explain this in further detail.  

Anyone disputing a trust must prove that they have a valid reason to challenge the terms. Trusts may be challenged on a technicality or they may be disputed if the trust would cause harm to the individual bringing the dispute.  

Elder law is complex, but the team at Podolsky and Wickham, PLLC can help you navigate it. Let us answer your questions.  

 Elder law handles matters related to older or disabled people. It may include healthcare, retirement savings, guardianship, and long-term planning, among others.  

Elder attorneys are qualified to take care of any matters pertaining to the wellbeing of an elderly or disabled person. Firms like ours might deal with healthcare, guardianship, and Social Security.   

Elder abuse is the act of physically, emotionally, psychologically, or financially harming an elderly person. Most often, this act occurs in nursing homes, but it can also happen at home.    

There are many signs of elder abuse. Look for bed sores, broken bones, sudden weight loss, lack of hygiene, and mood disorders in your elderly loved one, as they could indicate abuse.   

Conventional options for long-term care include nursing homes, assisted living communities, and home health care. Work with your medical professional to determine which is best for your loved one's circumstances.   

No. Power of attorney only allows the specified individual to take the responsibilities you've outlined in the document.  

We're committed to protecting children in the event of abuse or neglect. Allow us to address your concerns with filing this type of claim.   

The definition of child abuse varies slightly based on your state. In Michigan, harm must be intentionally caused, and that harm must result in physical or mental damage to the child.  

Every child shows abuse differently. However, the traditional signs of abuse and neglect include sudden changes in behavior, overly-passive attitudes, reluctance to be around a particular person, or visible, unexplained injuries.  

At the first sign of abuse or neglect, you should report the incident to Child Protective Services or another professional organization that provides help to children. There is a national child abuse hotline that can be reached 24 hours a day. 

In most states, you can remain anonymous after reporting child abuse or neglect. All states must maintain confidentiality concerning the child involved.  

 Parents are always legally responsible for their children, alone or supervised. Your state may not have a legal age at which point it's acceptable to be left alone. In many cases, parents must decide based on their child's maturity level. 

Have more questions we didn't address above? Don't hesitate to contact Podolsky and Wickham, PLLC in Battle Creek, MI for a consultation.