Mariani Reck Lane LLC New London Personal Injury Lawyer | Mariani Reck Lane LLC2024-02-23T16:09:55Zhttps://www.marianirecklane.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1401570/2020/06/cropped-MRL_SITEICON_512x512_JUN20-32x32.jpgOn Behalf of Mariani Reck Lane LLChttps://www.marianirecklane.com/?p=485822024-02-23T16:09:55Z2024-02-23T16:09:55ZReasons for modification
There are many reasons that parents may want to modify parenting plans:
A parent's work schedule may change, affecting their ability to maintain the existing parenting plan. For instance, a parent with a new job or shift change might need to adjust pick-up and drop-off times.
If one parent plans to move, especially if it is out of state, they might need to change the plan so both parents can still actively participate in the child's life.
As children grow older, their needs and preferences may change. If a child expresses a desire to spend more time with one parent or participate in certain activities, the parenting plan may need adjustment.
If one parent consistently ignores the terms of the parenting plan or undermines the other parent's relationship with the child, modifications may be necessary to promote a healthier co-parenting environment.
Significant changes in a parent's ability to fulfill their parental responsibilities, such as substance abuse issues or mental health concerns, may warrant modifications to ensure the child's safety and well-being.
Courts may not grant modification requests if they feel the reasons do not justify it or the suggested modifications do not suit the child's best interests.
Seeking modification
To modify a parenting plan in Connecticut, parents must file a petition with the family court outlining the reasons for the requested changes. They must also provide evidence supporting the need for modification, such as documentation of schedule changes, communication records or reports from relevant professionals, like therapists or teachers.
Navigating the legal process
Once a parent files a petition, both parents can present their case before a judge. The court will consider the child's best interests when making a decision. If the court grants the modification, the updated parenting plan will be legally binding, and both parents must follow it.
Help your children thrive
Changing circumstances can prompt the need for parenting plan modifications. By understanding the acceptable reasons for modification and following the proscribed legal process, parents can ensure that the plan promotes healthier co-parenting environments and continues to serve their children's best interests.]]>On Behalf of Mariani Reck Lane LLChttps://www.marianirecklane.com/?p=485802024-01-12T21:49:33Z2024-01-15T21:49:12ZWhiplash
One of the most common spinal injuries from falls is whiplash. This occurs when the head is suddenly jerked backward and then forward, straining the muscles and ligaments in the neck. Symptoms of whiplash include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness and restricted range of motion. These symptoms may appear immediately or can take days to manifest.
Herniated discs
Slip and fall accidents can also cause herniated discs in the spine. This happens when one of the rubbery cushions between the vertebrae ruptures and the jelly-like interior pushes out. A herniated disc can cause debilitating nerve pain, numbness and muscle weakness if it presses on a spinal nerve.
Spinal fractures
More serious spinal fractures can occur from high-impact falls, especially in the elderly. The lumbar vertebrae in the lower back are particularly susceptible to fracture during falls. Signs of a spinal fracture include new back pain, tenderness, bruising and inability to move the lower body. Prompt medical treatment is necessary to stabilize the fracture and avoid long-term disability.
According to the National Safety Council, nearly 7 million people received treatment for injuries related to slips, trips and falls in 2021. The spine is highly vulnerable in these instances, making it important to recognize the most common hazards. Seeking prompt medical attention for symptoms of spinal injury can help minimize long-term effects and aid in recovery.]]>On Behalf of Mariani Reck Lane LLChttps://www.marianirecklane.com/?p=485782023-12-28T20:56:14Z2023-12-28T20:56:14ZWet floors
One of the primary culprits behind slip-and-fall incidents in stores is poorly maintained flooring. When floors are not regularly cleaned or treated for spills, they become a breeding ground for hazards.
Liquid spills from a fallen product or a careless shopper can turn ordinary floors into slippery surfaces waiting to cause accidents. Inadequate signage worsens the situation, leaving unsuspecting customers vulnerable to dangerous falls.
Uneven surfaces
Neglected store maintenance extends beyond just keeping floors clean. Uneven surfaces, such as cracked tiles or loose floorboards, pose a significant threat to shoppers. When store owners fail to address these issues promptly, they create an environment where customers are at risk of tripping and falling.
Dimly lit spaces
Proper lighting is important for maintaining a safe shopping environment. Dimly lit areas not only contribute to an unpleasant shopping experience but also increase the likelihood of accidents. Shoppers may struggle to identify potential hazards, such as wet spots or obstacles in their path, leading to slip-and-fall incidents.
Lack of handrails
Navigating stairs or ramps without proper handrails can be a scary undertaking, especially for those with mobility challenges. Poor store maintenance is evident when workers overlook safety features like handrails. Without these, customers face an increased risk of falling while going up or down areas within the store.
Physical in-person stores make up 70% of retail sales. Store owners must prioritize regular upkeep to create a secure environment for shoppers.]]>On Behalf of Mariani Reck Lane LLChttps://www.marianirecklane.com/?p=485762023-11-02T20:38:31Z2023-11-02T20:38:31ZFailing to meet your probation officer
Regular meetings with a designated probation officer are a primary condition of probation. If you miss these meetings, you directly violate your probation terms.
Skipping court-mandated programs or classes
Often, individuals on probation must attend specific programs or classes, such as anger management, drug counseling or rehabilitation. Not attending or finishing these programs breaches probation.
Committing another crime
While on probation, if you commit another crime, whether related to the initial offense or not, you likely violate your probation. This act shows a lack of respect for the law and the terms of your probation.
Not paying fines or restitution
If you have to pay fines, give restitution to those negatively affected by your crimes or meet other financial obligations as part of your probation, you must do so. Failing to meet these financial requirements can result in a violation.
Meeting known criminals
Some probation terms prohibit individuals from meeting known criminals or specific individuals related to the crime. To avoid going to jail, it is best to steer clear of known criminals or others you may have done criminal acts with in the past.
Traveling out of state without permission
Traveling out of Connecticut without telling your probation officer or getting court approval can violate your probation. Always inform and get approval before traveling.
Not holding a job or attending school
For some people, holding a steady job or attending school is a probation requirement. Not fulfilling this requirement can lead to consequences.
You receive probation as a privilege, giving you a chance to reintegrate into society without going to jail. But this privilege comes with responsibilities. By knowing and strictly following the terms of your probation, you can move forward without additional legal troubles. Always stay aware of your duties and make them a priority.]]>On Behalf of Mariani Reck Lane LLChttps://www.marianirecklane.com/?p=485742023-10-17T17:10:59Z2023-10-17T17:10:59ZFinances
Your financial circumstances significantly impact the home settlement decision. Determine the home's value, remaining mortgage and any potential equity. Assess each partner's financial stability and their ability to maintain the property on their own. These financial factors can influence whether it is best to sell, buy out the other spouse or keep the home jointly until a more suitable time.
Children
If you have children, their well-being becomes the priority. Consider the effect of upheaval on them before you decide. The custodial parent might find it in the children’s best interest to keep the family home for stability and consistency.
Timing
Sometimes, the timing of the settlement influences the decision. If you want to sell the home, for example, you might need to wait for the market to improve or stabilize before you do. According to Zillow, listed homes typically take anywhere from 55 to 70 days to sell, including the closing process. Consider the effect of that timeframe on your finances, including ongoing mortgage payments, as you decide how to handle the home sale.
Your family home is likely the most significant asset you have in your marriage. Ensure that both of you receive your equal share of that investment no matter what you decide to do with it.]]>On Behalf of Mariani Reck Lane LLChttps://www.marianirecklane.com/?p=485722023-08-31T20:10:31Z2023-08-31T20:10:31ZCommon causes of motorcycle accidents
According to the Connecticut Department of Transportation, there are more than 50 motorcycle fatalities every year, and injuries occur to motorcyclists four times more than to motorists. Typical causes of crashes include:
The failure of drivers to yield the right of way
Distracted driving by both motorcyclists and other drivers
Speeding
Unsafe lane changes
The increased vulnerability of motorcyclists compared to motorists amplifies the importance of safe driving practices and awareness of these common causes of accidents.
Tips for motorcycle riders
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, wearing protective gear, especially helmets, is one of the most important aspects of reducing the severity of injuries. Riders should attend safety classes and practice operating the motorcycle in different conditions. Motorcyclists should also conduct regular maintenance checks.
Riders should practice defensive driving, as other motorists have a harder time seeing them. To reduce the chances of collisions, motorcyclists should improve visibility with bright and reflective clothing, as well as proper lighting on the motorcycle.
Driver responsibilities
Motorists should make a conscious effort to look out for motorcycles on the road. Checking mirrors and blind spots before making turns or lane changes can prevent accidents. Drivers should also treat motorcyclists with the same respect as other vehicles on the road. This includes giving them adequate space and following traffic rules.
Motorcycle accidents in Connecticut are a concern, as they often result in serious injury or death. Both motorcyclists and other drivers can help prevent these accidents.]]>On Behalf of Mariani Reck Lane LLChttps://www.marianirecklane.com/?p=485702023-07-15T13:16:46Z2023-07-15T13:16:46ZPersonal freedom
In Connecticut, the courts treat burglary crimes seriously. A conviction can lead to imprisonment. The length of the sentence depends on the severity of the crime and the degree of the burglary. For instance, a burglary in the third degree, the least severe type, may result in a jail sentence of up to five years. If the burglary is more severe, like first-degree burglary that involves violence, you may face up to 20 years in jail.
Monetary repercussions
Apart from the loss of personal freedom, you might face hefty fines. The fines depend on the degree of the crime committed. For a third-degree burglary charge, you could end up paying thousands of dollars. More serious charges carry higher fines, possibly running into tens of thousands of dollars.
Employment opportunities
A burglary charge can also have dire effects on your employment prospects. Potential employers often conduct background checks, and a criminal charge can be a significant red flag. It can be difficult to secure a job, especially in fields that require a clean record. You may face obstacles in sectors such as education, healthcare and government roles.
Housing and education
Your housing options may become limited after a burglary charge. Landlords often carry out background checks and may deny your application based on criminal history. Moreover, if you are a student, some colleges and universities may rescind admission offers or scholarships due to a criminal record.
Understanding the gravity of these repercussions is important to navigating life following a charge and building a good legal defense.]]>On Behalf of Mariani Reck Lane LLChttps://www.marianirecklane.com/?p=485682023-06-27T00:58:42Z2023-06-27T00:58:42Zmore than a third of all divorce cases include couples who are at least 50 years old.
There are many contributing factors leading to the increased prevalence of divorce among older adults.
Increased acceptance
At one time, society frowned upon divorce. Older adults who faced relationship challenges simply accepted their situation because divorce was unacceptable. In the last few decades, the subsequent generation’s changing perspectives has led to increased acceptance of divorce, even in an aging population.
Increased life expectancy
An increased life expectancy contributes to the rise in gray divorce as well. As people face retirement with more years ahead of them than previously anticipated, happiness takes priority. This often leads to separation in a relationship where empty nests and passing years create distance and unfamiliarity.
Different goals
People age differently, with some older adults retaining their energy and zeal for life while others simply want to relax and enjoy their retirement years. These differing goals can strain a relationship, especially after many decades of marriage. One partner may choose their own independence to pursue their personal goals instead of staying in a marriage that no longer suits them.
Divorce no longer carries the stigma that it had in prior generations. Even retirees and older adults embrace their happiness and seek divorce when it suits their needs. These are a few factors contributing to the rise in gray divorce, but many other considerations may apply.]]>On Behalf of Mariani Reck Lane LLChttps://www.marianirecklane.com/?p=479322023-05-20T16:20:33Z2023-04-27T01:21:57ZThe Law Does Not Specifically Require Wet Floor Signs
Connecticut law does not contain a statute requiring businesses to use wet floor signs. However, some protections exist to cover you as a customer.
Businesses Have A Duty Of Care To Protect Customers
Business owners have a duty of care to protect you and other customers from harm. While a traditional wet floor sign is not a requirement, the organization must notify you, as a business invitee, of the presence of danger. For example, if your favorite grocery store has a leaky roof that the responsible parties know causes puddling in an aisle, they must warn you of the slip-and-fall hazard. Whether they post an employee in the aisle to deter you from stepping in the puddle, section off the area or put out a wet floor sign, their actions must be thorough enough to convey the threat's presence.
Despite Connecticut's lack of a wet floor sign requirement, businesses must take reasonable action to prevent customer injuries. If the establishment in which your slip-and-fall occurred did not take measures to safeguard you or a loved one from harm, you could have a personal injury case.]]>On Behalf of Mariani Reck Lane LLChttps://www.marianirecklane.com/?p=479302023-05-20T16:30:26Z2023-04-07T19:48:21Zprenuptial agreement.
Can You Challenge Your Prenup?
The short answer is, yes. Although you signed a contract that became legally binding when you got married, it may contain clauses that are not legal or overreach the legal bounds of such a contract.
What Conditions Could Invalidate Your Prenup?
Before you signed your prenuptial agreement, you should have consulted legal counsel. You needed adequate time, typically seven days, to really evaluate this decision. You had to sign the agreement willingly, not because of duress or undue influence. Both you and your spouse needed to fully disclose all your assets, including financial assets, prior to signing the agreement.
The agreement had to be procedurally legal, e.g., it needed to be in writing, notarized and witnessed. The signing also had to occur before the wedding. All its clauses need to be legal. For example, statements about future children and their custody should be absent. The agreement cannot be unfair or leave you in a financial hardship position. Sexual requirements and living conditions can also void the contract.
Why Would You Want To Challenge Your Prenup?
You may want to fight your prenuptial agreement if it has anything illegal in it or if your spouse forced you to sign it. Also, look for fraud within the document or it results in your insolvency.
A prenuptial agreement is a legal contract, and you cannot have it invalidated because you dislike the terms. You need actual legal grounds to overturn your agreement, so review it carefully.]]>