Walterman LegalWalterman Legal2025-03-31T12:55:48Zhttps://www.waltermanlegal.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1203750/2022/10/cropped-site-icon-32x32.jpgOn Behalf of Walterman Legal<![CDATA[Reasons to consider changing your Indiana child custody plan]]>https://www.waltermanlegal.com/?p=466832023-06-15T22:27:21Z2023-06-15T22:27:21ZRelocation or change in residence
Another common reason to modify a child custody plan is when one parent wishes to relocate or when there is a significant change in the geographical distance between the parents' residences. Relocation can profoundly impact the child's life, including their access to both parents, their education and their social connections. In such cases, modifying the custody plan can help establish a new arrangement that takes into account the practicalities and challenges associated with the new living arrangements, aiming to maintain the child's stability and promote ongoing relationships with both parents.
Concerns about the child's safety or well-being
If valid concerns arise about the child's safety or well-being in their current custody arrangement, parents may need to seek a modification. This can include situations involving substance abuse, domestic violence, neglect or other harmful behaviors that may pose a risk to the child's physical or emotional health. Modifying the custody plan can provide necessary safeguards and protects the child from potentially harmful situations, allowing them to thrive in a more secure and stable environment.
Changes in the child's needs or preferences
As children grow and develop, their needs and preferences may change. For instance, as they enter their teenage years, they may develop stronger opinions about their living arrangements and desire more involvement in decision-making processes. In such cases, modifying the custody plan can help create a more age-appropriate arrangement that respects the child's evolving maturity and allows them to have a voice in shaping their own future.
In Indiana, child custody plans prioritize the best interests of the child and provide a framework for co-parenting after a separation or divorce. However, as circumstances change, parents may need to modify these plans to ensure they continue to meet the evolving needs of the child.]]>On Behalf of Walterman Legal<![CDATA[3 keys to dealing with an insurance adjuster after a car accident]]>https://www.waltermanlegal.com/?p=466782023-03-25T19:03:24Z2023-04-05T23:40:12Z175, 886 car accidents happened statewide in 2020. Along with dealing with injuries and car repairs, you also have to handle working with an insurance adjuster. Before any conversation happens, keep the following in mind to increase your odds of a fair settlement.
1. Keep the discussion basic
While the adjuster needs essential information, such as your name and address, keep it simple. Although the person may seem like they can legally fish for additional information, you do not have to provide it. Avoid talking about any injuries, prognoses, accident details or fault.
2. Avoid a recorded statement
Frequently, adjusters will indicate that they must get your recorded statement. Unless you also work in the insurance field, you may feel like what they say must go. Unfortunately, adjusters often only do this to try and get people talking. Once recorded, they can use your word against you. You have the legal right to say no, and adjusters must adhere to that.
3. Decline the initial settlement offer
An accident has lingering effects, which often makes people want to just get the situation over with as soon as possible. While the initial offer may sound appealing, adjusters often lowball the first offer. Considering that many crash-related injuries may linger for years, taking the first offer may leave you in a difficult situation in the future.
When talking to an adjuster, remain calm and focused and remember the person works for an insurance company and not you.]]>On Behalf of Walterman Legal<![CDATA[Will I lose everything in my divorce?]]>https://www.waltermanlegal.com/?p=466762022-12-15T13:00:57Z2022-12-20T07:00:57ZWhich assets can the court divide in my divorce?
In Indiana, your assets are considered marital property regardless of when acquired, or in which spouse's name the assets are titled. However, a court can take into consideration whether the asset was acquired before marriage, whether it was an inheritance, and other factors when deciding how to divide the marital estate. Indiana is an equitable distribution state, which means that a court divides marital property in an equitable, or fair, way. Equitable does not necessarily mean exactly equal, though the division is supposed to be fair to both parties.
Can I have any say in the division process?
The equitable division law generally applies only in a contested divorce. If you and your spouse want more control over the asset division process, you can work out an agreement to present to the court instead of leaving it up to a judge. As a bonus, an uncontested divorce is usually faster and more cost-effective.
The thought of divorce may leave you feeling anxious as you enter an uncertain process. However, you can take comfort in knowing that Indiana law prevents you from losing everything to your spouse, especially if you both can negotiate a fair agreement outside of court.]]>On Behalf of Walterman Legal<![CDATA[How can I prepare for divorce?]]>https://www.waltermanlegal.com/?p=466612022-10-31T04:07:38Z2022-11-03T04:04:46Zprepare for a divorce.
Gather your support system
Many challenges come with a divorce. You will have days where you feel tough and others where you need friends and family to help you get from one step to the next.
As you prepare, you may also want to consider talking to a skilled attorney about your divorce so that you know what to expect.
Figuring out finances
Going from two incomes to one can significantly impact your life and lifestyle. Understandably, it can take some planning to feel ready to take the next step toward divorce.
Remember that while you want to think about your financial future, you should not try to hide money or other assets. Hiding assets can backfire during the asset division part of a divorce. Instead, you should talk to your attorney about how to prepare yourself and what mistakes you should avoid as you prepare for divorce.
Talking to your children
Divorce can have a significant impact on you and your children. Depending on how old your kids are, they may see some of the signs as you start to think about divorce.
After you have talked to your spouse about getting a divorce, it is time to have a thoughtful age-appropriate conversation with your children about what they can expect and what is happening. While you and your spouse may be at odds with each other, your children will still want a relationship with their other parent.
As you move through the divorce process, seeking support from those around you is essential. In addition to your friends and family, you may also need help from skilled professionals.]]>