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. 

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 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.  

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.  

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.