Blawg of Attorney Christine M Bechtold

Many websites have legal forms online, however to someone who is not familiar with the law, those forms can be overwhelming. Some fill-in forms do not suit your needs and often do not address all legally required issues for a divorcing couple. The wrong forms or incorrectly completed forms can lead to complications. "If you're not a lawyer you probably have no business acting like one in certain instances.” https://www.findlaw.com/hirealawyer/do-you-need-a-lawyer/top-ten-reasons-to-hire-a-lawyer.html . “Divorce and family law rules vary from state to state, and unless you already know your state laws and local rules, you'll have a lot to learn to get up to speed.” https://www.divorcenet.com/resources/can-i-handle-my-own-divorce-or-should-i-hire-a-lawyer.html . If you and your spouse agree on most issues with your upcoming divorce, that is a great start, however keep in mind, “even the most agreeable couples can hit roadblocks during the settlement process, so be prepared...

Going through the VA disability process is overwhelming and complicated. Once you apply for your VA disability benefits and are denied, it is difficult to know what to do next. “ If you disagree with a VA decision dated on or after February 19, 2019, you can choose from 3 decision review options (Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, or Board Appeal) to continue your case.” https://www.va.gov/decision-reviews/ . All 3 decision review options have their own benefits. The Supplemental Claim option allows you to submit new evidence, the Higher-Level Review option provides you with another review of your already submitted evidence, and the Board Appeal option provides a hearing with a Veterans Law Judge. Some options will provide a quicker decision while others may take longer, but may be more beneficial for your specific case. It is important to talk to someone who is familiar with the VA appeals process to help guide you through the maze. The VA has an accreditation program for qu...

  Divorce fees vary by state, county, and law firm. In all divorce cases in Georgia, you will have a filing fee paid directly the Clerk of Court when your divorce is filed. Filing fees in Georgia vary by county, below is a list of local Superior Court filing fees for divorce (as of December, 2021): Barrow County: $207.00 Gwinnett County: $209.00 gwinnettcourts.com. Newton County: $209.00 alcovycircuit.com. Rockdale County: $209.00 rockdaleclerk.com. Walton County: $210.00 alcovycircuit.com. If you have a shared minor child with your spouse, you may also be required to attend a parenting class/ seminar for an additional Court fee. Programs and fees vary by county. See my post on parenting classes here: bechtold-law.blogspot.com . Finally, you will have attorney fees for your divorce. Divorces vary greatly from family to family which in turn impacts attorney fees. “Be sure to get your fee arrangement in writing from you...

I f you have a shared minor child and plan to be divorced in the State of Georgia you will likely be required to attend a parenting class or seminar. Requirements, schedules, and fees vary by county. “ The superior court judges, under whose authority the program shall function, may require any or all parties to attend an educational seminar of no more than four hours in and domestic relations action before the court. The program may be administered by the court or by contract with a private agency. The seminar shall be conducted by qualified personnel whose professional and educational experiences include a knowledge of children and families. " Georgia Superior Court Rule 24.8(B) . “ The goal of this program is to assist the parents in understanding the impact of divorce on children, reduce potential conflicts, and offer practical solutions to future problems.“ alcovycircuit.com . “ The seminar focuses on the developmental needs of children, with emphasis on fostering the child...