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Following are commonly asked Q&A's from an attorney in the
Union Plus Legal Service network.
Katy Kurtz
Kurtz & Peckham
1600 Stout Street, Suite 610
Denver, Colorado 80202
Ph: 303 893-3045 x311
Fax: 303 893-6999
www.kurtzpeckham.com
Do I really need a will?
Yes, you do need a will in order to provide for your loved ones
and to assure that your wishes are carried out by the people (i.e.
executor and guardian) you designate to do so.
Won't the will just get tied up in Probate
and be very costly?
A Last Will and Testament along with attendant documents is usually
an inexpensive, and relatively quick way to ensure your family's
and loved ones financial futures are protected.
Colorado (the state where I practice) has
one of the most enlightened Probate systems in the country. It is
very user friendly, fast and inexpensive.
Note: State laws differ so always check with a lawyer licensed
to practice in your state.
What's the use of getting legal representation
for a traffic ticket?
Here are several reasons why legal representation may be advantageous
if you are charged with a traffic violation.
- First, an attorney may help ensure your
continued eligibility to drive. A lawyer can often obtain a reduction
or even a dismissal of the charges by presenting the merits of
your case and pointing out errors made by law enforcement or other
witnesses at the scene.
- In addition, attorneys should be familiar
with the defensive driving classes and other alternatives that
may be helpful in reducing the impact of a ticket on your motor
vehicle record.
- Second, there are potential cost savings
to hiring an attorney. Lawyers can appear on your behalf in court
to save you valuable time away from your employment or other responsibilities.
A reduced charge may prevent an increase in your auto insurance
premium.
- In addition, your legal representative
will present mitigating information to the court which may result
in a lower fine.
A police detective contacted us about
allegations made about a member of the family. She said she wants
to hear our side. Should we talk to the detective?
Anyone who has watched a "cop" show on television has heard
police officers read defendants their Miranda rights -- namely, that
you have the right to remain silent and anything you say can
and will be used against you. This warning should not be taken lightly
by anyone under suspicion for committing a crime.
A detective or police investigator's offer to listen to your side
can be very tempting. The officer may express a willingness to drop
the whole thing if he or she believes your point of view. On the other
hand, many citizens fear that if they do not cooperate with the police,
they are more likely to be charged with a crime.
Speak to a lawyer before agreeing to discuss a potential crime with
law enforcement. Citizens often have very little to gain by sharing
their story with the police -- and a lot to lose. Whatever you say
will most likely be used against you. So exercise your right
to remain silent and contact a lawyer. Let legal counsel advocate
for you on terms that are in your best legal interest.
Read other lawyers' Q&A's
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