Blawg of Attorney Christine M Bechtold

The Norcross Police Department is, "warning residents about door-to-door salesmen selling alarm systems who reportedly are misrepresenting endorsements for their products." Fox 5 3/12/11 . Did you know there is a Federal law that governs sales that take place in your home? Federal law 16 C.F.R. 429 lists your rights regarding most door-to-door sales, including specific contract requirements for sales at your home. GA Consumer Rights. It is important to be aware of your rights! What to do when a salesperson knocks on your door: Remember that you do not need to answer the door. It is your home and you can simply not answer the door. If you do answer the door, be safe. Do not immediately allow a stranger to enter your home. Try to talk to the salesperson on your porch or front step instead of allowing them into your home. If you do allow the person into your home, first be sure to ask for and check their credentials, including: name tag, uniform, business c...

In most cases, yes! "Prenuptial agreements are on the rise . . . and even Britain's Prince William may be considering one." ABA 3/1/11. Although you may not have royal wealth to protect, this type of planning is right for everyone entering into marriage. A prenuptial agreement, or prenup, can help a marrying couple clarify what will happen to their personal and financial items in the event of divorce. These documents have been recognized in Georgia since 1982 , and have specific requirements an attorney can help you with. Each party to a prenup needs their own attorney to ensure their assets are protected. If you are interested in this marriage planning tool, contact our office today. http://bechtold-law.com/Prenup.html

Mediation was all over the news this week in Georgia. It was reported that, "The first mediation session in the sexual misconduct lawsuits against Bishop Eddie Long and New Birth Missionary Baptist Church has ended." AJC 3/4/11. But what is medation? Mediation is an alternate way to resolve disputes without litigation. All types of people seek mediation for a wide variety of issues, in fact, some courts order mediation before a case will be heard. During a mediation, both parties agree to sit across the table from each other and work out their problem with a trained neutral mediator. Many people find that mediation is very satisfying, results in faster resolution, and is less costly then litigation. Additionally, mediation can be confidential, which means that the details of your mediation are not in the public record like most court cases. However, unlike litigation, a resolution is not guaranteed. Mediation resolution depends on both party's willingness to reach a...