Going through a divorce can be a profoundly emotional experience. Splitting up the family china or family photos brings up memories of happier times. Determining who gets which asset and who is responsible for what debts can strain communication between divorcing spouses. When you add the family home into the mix, emotions are guaranteed to run high.
Navigating Louisiana divorce law requires an experienced attorney. When you contact experienced divorce lawyer in Shreveport, David L. White, you can get the representation you need to protect your assets and make sure things stay fair.
Understand Louisiana’s Community Property Law During a Divorce
Louisiana is a community property state. That means all assets and debts acquired during the length of the marriage are shared equally. It also means that in the event of a divorce, a judge must weigh all relevant factors and make sure that each of you receives property of equal net value.
There are some instances where property may be considered separate if it was owned before the marriage, was inherited, or received as a gift. Your divorce attorney can help you make that assessment.
Selling a Home During a Divorce in Shreveport
The marital home is the house that you and your spouse shared during your marriage. It is essential to keep a few things in mind when preparing to sell your home during a divorce:
Take care of yourself. There are a lot of decisions to be made and court dates to attend. With each one, emotions can percolate to the surface and wear you down. You need to be at your best to handle what may come, so try to employ some self-care.
Be willing to divorce the house and the mortgage. You may want to keep your home for a variety of reasons. You might view it as the cornerstone of stability for your children. While that may be the case, if neither spouse can afford the mortgage, it is probably a good idea to sell the home.
Avoid seeking revenge through sabotage. If this is not an amicable split, you might have thoughts of revenge dancing in your mind. Remember that ruining parts of the house also ruins any profit you could have made from the sale.
Find a real estate agent familiar with divorce knowledge. You need to find an agent that is neutral and understands some of the nuances of selling a home during a divorce. They can offer suggestions to help you get the most from the sale.
Selling your marital home during a divorce is a stressful situation. You can lessen the stress when you get the help and advice you need from a trusted divorce lawyer in Shreveport, Louisiana.
Work with a Dedicated Divorce Lawyer in Shreveport, Louisiana
Learn more about how to sell a property during a divorce with help from David L. White. He has years of experience providing practical, personalized legal support for his clients in Shreveport. The legal professionals at our law practice will provide you with reliable, representation for your divorce case.
Contact your divorce lawyer in Shreveport to find out more about handling property division as you finalize your divorce in Louisiana. Call us today at 318-747-7023.
– Get Help from a Leading Criminal Defense Attorney in Bossier City
To sell, distribute, or handle illegal narcotics is a crime. Sometimes you find yourself in the wrong place at the wrong time with the wrong people. What will you do if you find yourself arrested for a drug-related crime that you didn’t commit?
It is entirely understandable to be concerned and worried about what may happen next. You might be worried about losing your freedom. On the other hand, you might think that just because the drugs were not yours, you will be safe. It is important not to take this unfortunate circumstance lightly.
It requires the expertise and skill of a leading criminal defense attorney in Bossier City to help you navigate the complexity of criminal law. Though you might be tempted to represent yourself and claim your innocence, the penal system can be overwhelming. You need a lawyer that fights for you with strong representation. When you contact David L. White, you can get the representation you need to protect your rights.
One wrong step can jeopardize your freedom and the future of your loved ones. Take the time to get the representation you need.
Benefits of Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney for a Drug-Related Crime
Popular television shows have taught people a lot about the criminal system. You may have read books on the laws in your state or the criminal justice system and think you can handle being in the courtroom. There is more to the system than what you can get from a book. A good criminal defense attorney understands how to deal with the ever-changing landscape of the law.
Think about this if you are considering representing yourself:
The Prosecutor’s Power – Just because you have been charged with a drug crime does not necessarily mean you will be in court for that offense. A prosecutor will look at all charges and may decide to try you for other crimes that could be more or less serious. A book cannot give you insights into the mind of a prosecutor.
Pressure from the Community – Even though what you read in a book appears black and white, that is not necessarily the case. Judges want to get re-elected. Prosecutors want to be successful at prosecuting. Police wish their claims to be tried. The public wants the law to be tough on certain crimes. A seasoned defense attorney understands this and knows how to work with due consideration to all aspects of your case, and the environment in which it must be represented.
Finding yourself on the wrong side of the law should not be taken lightly. You need experienced, reliable representation on your side. As a committed attorney, David L. White and his team can help you through the nuances of your case.
Hire an Assertive Criminal Defense Attorney in Bossier City, Louisiana
Don’t face a drug charge on your own. Protect your rights and get the best representation possible. Contact David L. White today. The legal professionals at our law practice will provide you with the representation you need to help you get your life back on track.
Contact your criminal defense lawyer in Bossier City to find out more about suitable and timely representation for drug-related crimes in Louisiana. Call us today at 318-747-7023.
Advice from Your Estate Planning Attorney in Shreveport
If you are the caregiver for an aging relative or friend, there will come a time when you may have to step in and handle some personal affairs. Whether it is a physical ailment or the difficulties of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, having the right tools in place is imperative to providing the best care for your loved one.
Choosing the correct legal decisions should not be taken lightly. Key options include power of attorney and guardianship. Understanding the difference between the two requires the help of an experienced estate planning attorney. When you contact David L. White and his experienced staff, you get the assistance and representation you need to protect your charge.
Power of Attorney versus Guardianship
A power of attorney functions differently from a guardianship. Here is a basic breakdown of each:
Power of Attorney
A power of attorney is an option that allows an individual to choose an “agent” or “attorney-in-fact” to take over if they become incapacitated. In this case, the court is not involved in determining who the agent is.
Also, a POA can allow broad or limited powers to the agent. For example, you can restrict your agent’s powers to that of a particular time frame or a particular transaction.
Often, a POA is an important estate planning element, rivaling your will, and it is a proactive option.
Interdiction
An interdiction may become necessary if an adult becomes incapable of making decisions on their own. When this happens, the court may step in and choose a decision maker or curator for the ward.
An interdiction allows the curator to make all legal, financial, and health care decisions on behalf of the ward.
Obtaining an interdiction requires the court to appoint an objective third party to investigate and interview parties involved and provide the court with their findings. The court then acts upon the suggestions, and the power to make decisions is removed from the ward and given to the guardian.
Determining the best option for your situation should be under the guidance of your Shreveport estate planning attorney. David White is an established lawyer who can help you navigate the estate planning landscape.
Choose an Experienced Estate Planning Attorney in Shreveport
Deciding if you need a power of attorney or an interdiction does not have to be complicated or expensive. While there are many avenues to consider, you do not have to go it alone. The legal professionals at David L. White’s law practice will provide you with reliable guidance for your estate planning needs.
Call your Shreveport estate planning attorney to find out more about utilizing a power of attorney versus an interdiction in Louisiana. Call us today at 318-747-7023.
– Guidance from a Leading Divorce Lawyer in Bossier City
Divorcing a spouse is a tough, heartbreaking decision. Gone are the years of happiness and the bond between partners. It is even harder for children who might wonder if they are the reason for their parent’s marital demise. Fighting for custody only heightens the anxiety of your split.
As you and your spouse work on dividing up the silver, consideration for the care of the children must take center stage. You need to determine if the children will reside with both parents part of the time, or if one of you should have sole custody. Louisiana courts will consider the custodial arrangement plan you create. In the event you two cannot agree, the court will decide for you.
Navigating the Louisiana family law requires an experienced attorney. When you contact experienced divorce lawyer David L. White in Bossier City, you will get the representation you need to protect your parental rights, and make the right decision for your children.
Understand Louisiana’s Child Custody Basics
There are a few definitions and factors that you need to know when facing a divorce in Louisiana with children involved.
Three types of custody
There are three basic types of custody: sole, joint, and shared.
Sole Custody: This refers to only one parent having custody, with the other parent having visitation. This is granted where the non-custodial parent is proven to have abused the child.
Join Custody: This refers to both parties having custody, with one parent being designated the domiciliary parent. Both parties are to confer on major decisions affecting the minor child. In the event of a dispute, the wishes of the domiciliary parent prevail.
Shared Custody: This refers to both parties having equal time with the children and both make major decisions concerning the children. If a dispute arises,the court will decide.
Fitness of Parents
Ideally, the courts prefer a divorcing couple to determine child custody arrangements amicably. When that does not happen, the court then must decide for the parents. Factors that are considered include:
The relationship between the children and their parents
Which parent has taken care of the children historically
The ability of each parent to provide for and give guidance to the child
The ability of each parent to encourage a relationship between the children and the other parent
The moral, mental, and physical health of the parents
If the child is of age, their wishes may be considered
Keep in mind that your custodial arrangements are not permanent. Circumstances can change dictating that a new agreement may be necessary. A family law attorney helps you make the best arrangements for your circumstances.
Hire an Experienced Divorce Lawyer in Bossier City, Louisiana
Learn more about your parental rights with David L. White. The legal professionals at our law practice will provide you with reliable, discreet guidance for your custodial needs.
Contact your divorce lawyer in Bossier City to find out more about handling custody as you finalize your divorce in Louisiana. Call us today at 318-747-7023.
– Advice from a Leading Personal Injury Attorney in Bossier City
Whether you are hiking the mountains or surfing some waves, nothing says summer like getting away from it all and relaxing. Most of the time, you can enjoy a vacation without incident. However, there are those occasions when an accident happens, and it may occur while you are visiting a favorite vacation destination.
An injury can happen at any time. Some are serious enough to cut a vacation short and the injured person, or their family, has to head home quickly. Other times, immediate emergency care is required. It is critical that you seek medical attention as soon as possible after sustaining injuries. Insurance companies want to settle your claim for as little as possible and tend to look for differences in what you state and what your injury appears to be. It is important, therefore, to get a medical examination and start treatment without delay.
If you or a loved one sustain injuries while on vacation, contact an experienced personal injury attorney to help you get the maximum compensation. David L. White and his expert staff have years of experience in personal injury law. We help you navigate your way through the complex paperwork and claims process to get the compensation you deserve.
Steps You Should Take After Being Involved in an Accident While on Vacation
Immediately after you are involved in an accident while on vacation, take these initial steps:
Call 9-1-1 (or have someone else call)
It is important to have the police and paramedics on the accident scene to take reports and attend to injuries.
When talking with paramedics about your symptoms, be specific.
Now is not the time to shrug off or minimize what may hurt. Share as accurately as possible all of your pain and symptoms.
Get to the hospital or immediate care facility as soon as possible.
Even if you do not feel any initial pain, it is important to get looked over by a doctor as quickly as you can.
Follow the doctor’s orders.
Make sure you follow all recommended treatments including following up with your primary care doctor or a specialist as soon as you get home.
Return home quickly.
You should get back to your home as soon as possible and start your treatment.
Complete all instructions for treatment.
Do as the doctor orders and complete all of your treatment through to the end.
Avoid gaps in treatment.
Insurance companies are diligent about looking for any gaps and delays in treatment. Attend all your medical appointments and physical therapy sessions.
Hire a Dedicated Personal Injury Lawyer in Bossier City, Louisiana
While an injury while on vacation can turn your leisure getaway into a time of stress and inconvenience, time is of the essence in making sure you’re injuries are compensated properly. Call David L. White today for the legal representation you need before your medical care costs spiral out of control. The lawyers at our practice will go above and beyond to give you the help you deserve.
Contact your personal injury attorney in Bossier City to find out more about your options in Louisiana after you have sustained injuries on a vacation out of town. Call us today at 318-747-7023 to book a free consultation.
– Ask a Leading Criminal Defense Attorney in Bossier City
Criminal charges take up time and resources, not only for the prosecutor but for you as well. Many things are going on at one time. Stress levels are high and your future is at stake. Maybe you will lose your job, or your freedom. One day you may want to wage the fight throughout the judicial process. Other days you may want to bargain with the prosecution. When facing criminal charges, it is crucial to seek out as many options as possible.
If the prosecution comes to your attorney with a plea bargain on the charges, how do you know if it is a good deal? An experienced criminal defense attorney will explain the difference between the various types of bargaining. If you need representation for your criminal charges, contact David L. White and his expert staff. Our law firm has years of experience, and we aggressively fight for your rights and help you get your life back on track.
Know why you may want to bargain and understand the difference between charge bargaining and sentence bargaining:
Some reasons you may want to accept a plea deal:
Living in a constant state of anxiety and uncertainty is unhealthy for you and your family. Accepting a plea bargain can mean a quicker resolution. Agreeing to a deal can also mean a reduction or elimination of jail time. It may help reduce undue publicity and the stigma of some charges. Additionally, a plea bargain can help resolve the issue quickly.
What is charge bargaining?
If the prosecution comes to you and your defense attorney with a plea agreement to lessen the charges you are facing, they are charge bargaining. In essence, you agree to plead guilty to a lesser charge than what was originally brought against you. For instance, maybe you are being charged for DUI and are offered reckless driving charges instead. Another example is having murder charges dropped to manslaughter.
What is sentence bargaining?
If the prosecution wants to bargain on the sentence, they want to lessen the amount of time you would serve. In other words, you agree to plead to the charges brought against you, but your confinement would be less than the maximum sentence. For instance, in exchange for you pleading guilty to a misdemeanor charge, the prosecution recommends to the judge that you serve no jail time.
Remember: Facing trial is serious and intimidating. It is important that you not leave your future to chance by depending on the prosecutor to be on your side. Find a defense attorney that will aggressively fight for you and explain your rights and options.
Hire an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer in Bossier City, Louisiana
It is not worth trying to navigate the criminal legal system alone. Contact David L. White today for affordable and extensive legal representation. The legal professionals at our law practice will not only explain your options but will fight to get you the best deal possible.
Contact your criminal defense lawyer in Bossier City to find out more about plea bargains in Louisiana. Call us today at 318-747-7023.
Divorce is hard on everyone, especially the children. Just when everyone has settled into a steady school-year routine, summer comes along to disrupt the harmony. Whether it is the first or sixth summer since your divorce, questions are bound to arise. Who pays for the additional daycare expenses? Who is getting Johnny to his summer job? What weeks does each parent get for vacation? What if a parent does not approve of the travel plans of the other parent? If you are the non-custodial parent, summer is an excellent opportunity to spend extra time with your children.
Summer visitation does not have to be a reenactment of the Hatfields & McCoys! Ideally, you and your ex-spouse will have already determined how the summer transition will work. With some open communication and planning, both of you can provide a pleasant summer for your children. If you have further questions or need representation, contact David L. White and his knowledgeable staff. Our law firm has years of experience, and we are dedicated to helping you understand your rights.
Look at your divorce decree.
What did you and your ex-spouse set up during your divorce? Follow that schedule. If nothing was established at the time, consider how you can work with your ex-spouse to create a visitation schedule. Your divorce attorney can give you guidance.
Work together to make sure each parent gets their opportunity for vacation time.
One option is to utilize a specified vacation which sets up the exact dates that are approved by both parents. By contrast, you can use an unspecified vacation schedule that allows each parent control of a set number of days in the year to take their children on vacation. With this option, parents can take their children on vacation at any time with sufficient notice to the other parent.
Being flexible goes a long way.
When it comes to visitation, the law considers the children’s best interest. Frequent time with the non-custodial parent is viewed as important in the eyes of the court. Find ways that the non-custodial parent can have additional quality time that a regular school-year schedule does not allow.
Discuss extra-curricular arrangements together.
Summer is not just a time of lazy days by the pool. Often, there are football practices, band practices, and summer jobs. Communicating ahead of time about who will get Susie to band practice helps keep everyone’s tempers in check!
Remember: Summertime is a perfect time for divorced parents to make special memories with their children. If you do not have an established summer visitation schedule, take the time to make one now. Open communication and flexibility are essential in a seamless summer transition.
Contact an Experienced Divorce Lawyer in Shreveport, Louisiana
Learn more about your parental rights with David L. White. The legal professionals at David L. White’s law practice will provide you with reliable, discrete guidance for your family law needs.
Contact your divorce lawyer in Shreveport to find out more about visitations in Louisiana. Call us today at 318-747-7023.
Know Your Rights and Liabilities before Seeking Legal Counsel
Working out to relieve the stress of hectic daily routines is important. Training for marathons, losing weight, or just increasing your overall health are great reasons to hit the gym. If you’re a regular gym goer, you know that from time to time, minor injuries may occur. While you might not think too much about it, there are occasions when a serious injury happens, and you need more than a few days away from the gym to recuperate. This may also mean time away from work and other responsibilities.
If you or a loved one have been injured while working out at the gym, it is easy to think about laying the blame squarely on the facility and gym management. However, it is important to know if you have a right to sue the gym for your injuries even when you have signed liability waivers. Take these suggestions into consideration when deciding if you need to contact an attorney. For further questions or representation, contact David L. White and his knowledgeable staff. Our law firm has years of experience and we are dedicated to getting you the settlement you deserve.
Was I using the gym equipment properly?
If you dropped a free weight on your foot or were not paying attention while working out, you are responsible for injuries you incur through reckless behavior.
Was the equipment or facility properly maintained?
Gyms have a responsibility to maintain the equipment in their facility. For instance, they are responsible for repairing or replacing poor functioning equipment. They should also make sure the facilities (i.e. locker rooms, showers, etc.) are clean and taken care of on a regular basis. For example, wet floors should be attended to quickly. If gym management was negligent in their responsibilities, you may have a claim.
Was any of the equipment defective?
This may be hard to determine, but manufacturing companies harbor the responsibility to deliver equipment that meets the industry’s safety standards, including warning stickers appropriately affixed to the machines. If the equipment failed or was missing appropriate labels and caused your injury, the manufacturer may bear the blame.
Did your injury occur because of another patron?
Just as it is important that you pay attention while working out, the same applies to other gym patrons. If you were injured because a workout buddy was careless, you may have a claim against that individual.
Remember: No matter who may be at fault, if you are injured while working out, be sure to let the manager know, seek the appropriate medical attention immediately, and try to get as many details as you can to record and document the incident.
Visit an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney in Bossier City, Louisiana
Learn more about your personal injury rights with assistance from David L. White’s years of experience helping clients in Bossier City and the surrounding areas. The legal professionals at David L. White’s law practice will provide you with reliable guidance and trustworthy representation to get the best results from your personal injury case.
Contact your attorney as soon as possible following a personal injury. Call us today at 318-747-7023.
Find a Dependable Criminal Defense Lawyer in Bossier City, Louisiana
Finding the right representation for your criminal case can be intense. Tight timelines combined with inexperience can lead to hasty decisions and little or no reflection. If you have never worked with a lawyer before, understanding the nuances and differences that separate sound legal representation from less reliable support can be challenging. With legal pressure and concern for your own fate, it can seem overwhelming to identify the signs of a truly committed legal team.
If you or someone you love is facing criminal defense charges, take the 5 tips below into consideration to ensure you are working with a competent legal team. For trusted service and representation, get in touch with established attorney, David L. White. Our firm has years of experience and offers extensive criminal defense services to work tirelessly towards a favorable verdict.
Find the right criminal defense lawyer by keeping these 5 qualities in mind and asking the right questions:
Do they request your silence?
Your defense attorney should be clear and firm about your Fifth Amendment right to remain silent. With authorities, friends, acquaintances, and other individuals, your silence can be your best defense. If they are less firm on this matter or fail to address it at all, they likely may not dedicate the time necessary for a successful case.
What is their reputation and experience like?
Inquire about previous cases, do some research, and ask around if you can. Many criminal defense lawyers work repeatedly on these type of cases. This experience is crucial, as it helps by giving them a stronger frame of reference, more developed legal strategies, and deeper connections within the system. Experienced attorneys know other players in the case, including prosecutors, probation officers, and judges.
Innocence or guilt is not the only important factor.
Leading criminal defense lawyers do not fixate on the innocence or guilt of clients, but work to win the case and fulfill their constitutional obligation. Regardless of their personal beliefs, a sound defense lawyer will exhaust all resources, energy, and approaches for a favorable outcome.
What is the discovery phase like?
Lawyers with a track record of successful cases do not take reports or previous investigations as facts. They will collect all available and relevant records, video footage, and photographs, and explore all avenues including witnesses, experts, subpoenas, statements, and more. Ask about how the discovery phase will be conducted and inquire specifically about police or prosecution reports to find out more about the lawyer’s approach and process.
What is their education like?
A strong educational background is important. An ongoing dedication to staying up-to-date with the law is essential. Laws and regulations are not static, and having representation that is committed to remaining knowledgeable and informed about changes, nuances, loopholes and crackdowns will benefit your case regardless of the specific details.
Hire an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney in Bossier City, Louisiana
End your search for a dependable lawyer with years of experience, client dedication, and commitment to ongoing knowledge acquisition. David L. White offers legal representation that is effective, extensive and affordable. Work with the legal professionals at David L. White’s law practice to start building your criminal defense case today.
Contact your lawyer to discuss the best defense strategy in your case. Call us today at 318-747-7023.
Advice from Your Experienced Attorney in Shreveport, Louisiana
Personal injury cases come in all shapes and sizes. With varying circumstances from medical malpractice to car accidents, no two cases look the same. What connects them all are personal struggles, bodily harm, and routine case proceedings. If you are involved in a personal injury lawsuit in Louisiana, the physical pain and emotional turmoil can be overwhelming. While it can be challenging, having the basic documentation for smooth case proceedings can relieve a lot of the stress by enabling your case to progress faster and help it to continue moving forward. Follow the tips below to make it easier on you and your lawyer to resolve the case swiftly.
The more accessible and thorough your records, the more likely you are to receive a favorable verdict. If you have more questions or are seeking representation for your case, contact David L. White. Trust in our firm’s experience and dedication and feel confident knowing that without a personal injury settlement for you, there are no fees for us.
Keep these steps in mind if you face personal injury or are beginning preparations for your lawsuit:
Seek medical attention.
You may be able to describe the pain and suffering of your body in great detail, but in court this first-hand account won’t hold much water. You need an assessment, treatment, or diagnosis from a medical professional in order to substantiate your claims. Seek professional care as soon as possible to see that your injury is treated properly and to help you mitigate losses in court.
File a police report.
When you file a police report, the first step of record keeping is completed. Names, contact details, and an account of the accident or event will be kept. This document is considered factual and is permitted for use in a court of law.
Work with lawyers before insurance companies.
Insurance companies can complicate and convolute the legal process in some cases. If you are considering filing a personal injury legal claim, take the time to speak with a lawyer before filing your insurance claim. Insurance is part of the process for the majority of proceedings, but understanding when and how it is best to engage with third parties may require the guidance or presence of an attorney.
Don’t sign.
Signing documents associated with your personal injury can be detrimental to your case. If you have any questions, reservations, or lack clarity about a document or form you are asked to sign, do not provide a signature.
Keep meticulous records.
Organization is essential for making your case sound, successful, and convenient. Your lawyer will ask for records of any costs and expenses that are associated with your injury, so keep a dedicated file for receipts. Everything, including hospital bills, medical records, insurance, property damage, wages, and a written account of the accident or events leading to injury should be maintained and made available to your legal team.
Work with a Dedicated Personal Injury Attorney in Shreveport, Louisiana
Learn more about how to make your personal injury legal proceedings as easy as possible with the help from David L. White. He has years of experience offering clear, effective, and personalized legal services for clients in Shreveport and surrounding areas. The legal professionals at David L. White’s law practice will provide you with reliable guidance, representation, and advice to get the best results from your personal injury case.
Contact your attorney as soon as possible following a personal injury. Call us today at 318-747-7023.
