Weldon Law Group — Immigration, Estate Planning, Family Law, & Criminal Defense in Duval County — Fighting for Our Clients

Any day outside of the legal system is a good day. However, it’s simply unavoidable at times. Judicial and administrative tasks — ranging from criminal charges to immigration — have to be handled a certain way under American law. Unfortunately, these processes are often complex and confusing. This is why many people seek legal assistance in such situations. If you fall into this category, an immigration, criminal defense, estate planning, and family law attorney in Duval County may be able to help

Should You “Take a Deal” or Speak With the Police?

If you’re arrested for a crime, police may not always interview you. In certain situations — such as DUI or simple assault — they may simply take you to jail. However, what if they do start asking questions? More importantly, what if the prosecuting attorney offers you a plea deal if you agree to plead guilty or “no contest”? In any of these situations, it’s best to speak with a Duval County criminal defense attorney before doing anything.

The simple fact is that police and prosecutors want a conviction, and they want it quickly. This helps explain why well over 90% of cases never go to trial. By speaking with police, you’re making it more difficult to mount a defense. By making a deal with prosecutors, you’re going through the system on their terms. Either way, this can lead to penalties you shouldn’t have to face. That’s why it’s always wise to speak with an attorney first.

Why Is Estate Planning So Important?

When many people consider estate planning, they think that a last will and testament is enough. Strangely enough, even some of these people don’t have a valid will in place. Unfortunately, a lack of estate planning can prove disastrous. For instance, dying without a will can result in the courts assigning an administrator in probate to disperse your assets. If this happens, Florida law will have control over decisions that should’ve been yours.

Of course, Florida estate planning goes far beyond creating wills. What happens if you’re in an accident and can't tell doctors your treatment decisions? What if such an accident prevents you from making financial decisions on your own? What happens if a disabled loved one needs care, but leaving them money would make them ineligible for government benefits? In any of these situations — and many others — having an estate plan in place is essential.

How Can You or a Relative Legally Come to America?

The Statue of Liberty welcomes immigrants to the United States. Unfortunately, the reality is far from this simple. If you’re not an American citizen — or if your family members do not hold legal status — you no doubt understand the complexities of immigration law. Even if you or loved ones meet all necessary qualifications for residency, backlogs can turn what should be a straightforward process into a years-long struggle.

However, having an immigration attorney on your side can help. Many people don’t realize that there are a variety of paths to citizenship available for immigrants. Even those who would otherwise be ineligible to have residency in the United States may qualify for a waiver. The immigration system in America is complex, so you need a legal professional on your side who can help navigate it.

What if Your Florida Family Law Issues Seem Uncomplicated?

If you’re involved in a contested divorce, child custody battle, or another family law dispute, it may be obvious that you need the assistance of a Duval County law firm. Taking on these issues alone can lead to unexpected and potentially devastating outcomes. However, what happens if your issue seems straightforward? For instance, hiring an attorney may seem unnecessary when two former partners agree on everything in a divorce.

Unfortunately, many people find out the hard way that even amicable situations are not always simple. For instance, Florida law may bar certain agreements you’ve made with your ex partner. A judge may also decide that the decisions made by the parties involved are not in the best interest of their children. This is why it’s important to speak with a family law attorney in Duval County even if you think the issues you’re facing should be simple.

By simply averting common mistakes, you can avoid making your family law issue more difficult than necessary.