I’ve had phone calls recently from potential clients who have met with attorneys from the Twin Cities and found themselves dissatisfied with the experience.  They felt like a number or heard stories that their attorney didn’t even know who they were when they arrived for the Meeting of Creditors (the one hearing required in the bankruptcy process for most debtors).  Hiring an attorney from a smaller firm will give you a more personal experience. You will have met with me twice prior to your hearing.  I will be available to answer your questions as you are gathering documents or preparing for the hearing.

Please call for a free 30-minute consultation if you are wondering if chapter 7 bankruptcy could help you.

An OFP can also establish custody and parenting time rights, as well as child support.  Most OFPs last for one year, but they can be renewed under certain circumstances.

Once an OFP is filed, the court usually sets a hearing at which both parties have an opportunity to tell their respective sides of the story and present evidence.  It can be an intimidating process so the victim should have an advocate or experienced attorney present if she feels that she needs support.

I have represented hundreds of victims in cases ranging obtaining, modifying, or extending an Order for Protection (OFP) to obtaining a divorce. A case involving domestic violence is different than a regular divorce case and requires an attorney who understands the unique challenges that a victim faces. It also requires an attorney accustomed to working with domestic violence advocates like those at the HOPE Center in Faribault.

There are also emotional and mental health considerations for a victim, who may be suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or depression.  A recent study in the Journal of the American Medical Association finds that victims are more likely to experience mental health challenges. Please click here for an article about the study.

Please see the article here: http://www.bringmethenews.com/2011/07/13/court-reverses-decision-child-care-grants-will-resume-during-shutdown/

Pictured are paralegal Sarah Fix and attorney Jessica A. Hafemeyer

along with Faribault Chamber Ambassadors.

http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2011/06/13/taking-stand-against-elder-abuse

Elder abuse is a very serious issue in the United States. If you or someone you know is facing financial exploitation or physical abuse, please contact your local adult protection unit.  In Rice County, call the adult protection unit of Rice County Social Services.  If you are experiencing physical abuse, please call the HOPE Center.

On the other hand, signing a Recognition of Parentage on the hospital does entitle the father to pay child support if the mother requests it or if the County moves the Court to establish it due to the mother receiving public benefits. Signing the Recognition of Parentage does not entitle the father to custody or parenting time rights.

An experienced Minnesota family law attorney can assist the father of a child born outside of marriage with obtaining custody or parenting time rights or in helping the mother of a child born outside of marriage with obtaining child support.