The Law Offices of Saia, Marrocco & Jensen Inc.The Law Offices of Saia, Marrocco & Jensen Inc.2024-02-06T11:25:55Zhttps://www.splaws.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1203576/2023/06/siteimagesaia-75x75.jpgOn Behalf of The Law Offices of Saia, Marrocco & Jensen Inc.https://www.splaws.com/?p=536122024-02-01T08:43:49Z2024-02-06T11:25:55ZReasons why people divorce in January
The strain of financial stress, family obligations, and the heightened expectations associated with the holidays can push strained relationships to their breaking point.
People who choose to end their marriages around this time are usually people who have already had marital problems for quite some time, and the stress of the season becomes the catalyst for them to act on what they have probably already been considering for a while.
In other cases, the holiday season and its challenges confirm what they hoped would not be true, because they wanted the marriage to work, but the pressure of the holidays, which brings out negative qualities in people, led them to realize that the possibility of change is unlikely.
A new beginning
The new year is often a time of reflection, and individuals are often prompted to think about their lives, how they feel, and where they want their futures to go. Many times, people decide they desire a new start—a future without their spouse. The symbolism of starting anew in a new year can be a powerful motivator for those seeking a clean slate.
Trends in family law
Family law attorneys report a significant uptick in consultations and divorce filings during the early weeks of January, attributing the phenomenon to the factors mentioned.
While it may seem counterintuitive to start the year with such a significant life change, for many, the pursuit of happiness and personal growth takes precedence over remaining in a relationship that no longer works.
The reasons January is the biggest month for divorce are complex and multifaceted, involving a combination of holiday-related stressors, the symbolic power of new beginnings and the culmination of long-standing marital issues.
Individuals striving for personal fulfillment and a fresh start often find January to be a pivotal month for making changes and seeking a path that feels more authentic to them and to who they are now.]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Saia, Marrocco & Jensen Inc.https://www.splaws.com/?p=536102023-12-13T18:14:22Z2023-12-10T17:45:40ZAre there more drunk driving arrests during the holidays?
The federal government often encourages increased police presence during the holiday season, and this year is no different. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has announced plans to run its annual Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign from December 14 through January 1.
Ohio has participated in these programs in the past and will likely do so again this holiday season. Officials have included the use of checkpoints as part of the initiative. As such, drivers should prepare themselves for similar efforts this year and an increased risk of allegations of drunk driving.
What happens if I am accused of an OVI?
It is important to take the matter seriously if those flashing lights led to a traffic stop and allegations of drunk driving. Penalties can include license suspension, fines, and potential incarceration. There is also the potential of the social stigma that comes with the charges. Those who have a professional license, like a commercial drivers license or medical license, can also face additional suspensions or revocations. This can make it difficult to continue in your chosen profession.
Take the time to build a defense to the allegations. There are various rules that the police must follow when building their case. An attorney experienced in this area of the law can review your situation and provide guidance, better ensuring a more favorable outcome.]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Saia, Marrocco & Jensen Inc.https://www.splaws.com/?p=536082023-12-13T18:11:48Z2023-11-16T17:46:43ZHow can I get rid of my criminal record?
There are generally two options: expunge or seal. If sealed, employers and others in the public no longer have access to the record. There are exceptions when an employer can still view this record. Some exceptions include background checks for positions in law enforcement or youth services.
Expungement essentially erases the conviction. The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) generally only reviews an expunged record in the event a candidate applies for a position in law enforcement. Otherwise, it is basically like the record was never there at all.
What changed?
In the past, applicants looking to expunge or seal their records had to establish that they were an "eligible offender" to qualify. The definition included legislative guidance on reviewing and classifying multiple convictions which led to some confusion. Not all courts applied the guidance the same way.
The new law should provide a much clearer pathway.
Do I qualify for expungement or to seal my record?
The new law has a two-step approach. First, the applicant needs to establish that there is not a state law that prohibits sealing or expunging the record. This is potentially an issue for convictions for certain felonies, sexual crimes, and drunk driving related crimes.
The second step involves timing. The applicant must wait a certain period before qualifying to expunge or seal a criminal record. This can vary from a couple of months to years after completion of any sentence or community service, probation or parole, and payment of any related fees.
What should I do if I want to pursue this option?
Those looking to seal or expunge their criminal record are wise to seek legal counsel. An attorney experienced in this niche area of criminal law can review your situation and provide guidance.]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Saia, Marrocco & Jensen Inc.https://www.splaws.com/?p=536142023-12-13T18:34:14Z2023-10-01T17:26:34ZAn annual tradition for music lovers
Every year, hundreds of musicians from all corners of the United States gather every September in Thornville, Ohio, for the Lost Lands Festival. The latest event was from September 22nd to the 24th. Music enthusiasts nationwide come together to enjoy a weekend of fun in the sun. However, the combination of good music and merriment can result in unexpected legal consequences.
However, the annual event is also famous for criminal activity, with law enforcement staking their territory in central and eastern Ohio, along with the West Virginia border. Countless attendees coming to or leaving from the event via Highway 70, 71, and 77 may encounter waiting police officers.
Many are pulled over for suspicion of driving under the influence of not only alcohol, but also a variety of drugs that include MDMA, Molly, and an assortment of acid party drugs. Instead of enjoying a weekend of musical revelry, many languish in county jail cells.
Getting away from it all is one thing. When a long-awaited trip turns into serious criminal accusations, let alone being far from home, skilled representation from an experienced DUI attorney can provide much-needed protection of your rights.]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Saia, Marrocco & Jensen Inc.https://www.splaws.com/?p=536072023-12-13T18:23:24Z2023-09-29T16:44:47ZTips for effective co-parenting
Co-parenting is not always easy, and every parent will encounter difficulties every now and then. Difficulties are a normal part of the process, and it does not mean that co-parenting does not work. It simply means that you may need to make adjustments or simply be patient.
The following tips will help you co-parent your children successfully while at the same time be able to allow yourself the time to grieve and create your new life.
Embrace open communication
Communicating openly and honestly with the other parent is necessary for successful co-parenting. Both parents have to be willing to talk with one another in a respectful, productive way.
Your aim should always be to reach agreements that work best for everyone, especially the children.
Prioritize consistency
Children thrive on routines and consistency. While divorce may shake things up a bit, as you begin to co-parent, you can create brand-new routines and consistency for your children.
It may be difficult in the beginning, but after a while, you will all settle into your new routines, and the children will feel safe and secure in the consistency you provide.
Encourage a positive atmosphere
Creating a positive and nurturing environment for everyone is a great way to ensure that co-parenting works for your family long-term.
If you and the other parent are committed to making this arrangement work, ensure you do so with a positive attitude and try to approach all situations assuming the best intent in the other parent.
Co-parenting is not always easy, and you should expect challenges. After all, you and the other parent are trying to create a new family system.
However, the benefits of co-parenting are many, and your children are worth the work that you and the other parent put in to give them the best of you.]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Saia, Marrocco & Jensen Inc.https://www.splaws.com/?p=535872023-12-13T18:42:05Z2023-09-18T15:39:48Zunderstanding and avoiding them is essential.
Hiding information from your attorney
Your attorney is tasked with representing you and advocating for your best interests. Often, people fail to disclose important information with their attorney out of fear or embarrassment, without understanding that the only way your attorney can lead you to the best outcome is by having all the information they need.
When it comes to what information to share with your attorney, ensure you answer all questions asked truthfully and be forthcoming about anything involving any aspect of the divorce, whether that is the children, your finances and conversations with your spouse.
Allowing emotions to guide your decisions
Emotions run high during a divorce, and it is easy to speak and make decisions from an emotional place rather than a rational one. However, make decisions based on how you feel now, without considering that your current feelings will pass and you may feel differently in the future.
You may regret your choices later. One way to ensure you make the best decisions for your long-term well-being is checking in with your counsel and asking for advice when you do not know what to do.
Using your children as pawns
Using your children as pawns during your divorce to gain the upper hand often backfires. It is a common mistake that courts quickly identify, which can hurt your case.
Courts make decisions about child custody based on the child's best interests, which is why you want to be the best parent you can be, even during this challenging period. It will not only help your case but is truly the best thing you can do for your child.
Divorce is complex and involves many aspects of a person's life. Following the process, trusting your attorney, making decisions with a level head and behaving responsibly are critical. If you do these things, you will have the best chance at a successful outcome and the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you did everything you could to get through the process lawfully and with integrity.]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Saia, Marrocco & Jensen Inc.https://www.splaws.com/?p=535852023-11-15T19:03:58Z2023-08-10T13:36:49Zhave stated that they will use this new law as a tool to help put more domestic violence offenders “behind bars.”
What is the new law?
The law defines “strangulation or suffocation” as any act or application of pressure to the throat or neck that would impede the another individual’s normal breathing or circulation of blood. It also includes acts like covering someone’s nose and mouth.
There are three different parts to this law.
Causing serious harm to another through strangulation or suffocation.
Creating a substantial risk of serious harm through strangulation or suffocation.
Causing substantial risk of harm through strangulation or suffocation.
Any one of these three can result in felony criminal charges. The difference is that the charges can range from a second- to fifth-degree felony.
What if I am accused of strangulation or another violent crime?
It is important to take allegations of strangulation or other violent crimes very seriously. As noted above, the penalties are serious. Unfortunately, criminal penalties are just the beginning. Those who are convicted of these crimes may face additional obstacles when applying for jobs, housing, and even scholarships for higher education opportunities.
Do not take the allegations lightly. They will not just go away. A settlement may seem like a quick answer, but it may not be in your best interests. An attorney experienced in this niche area of criminal defense can review the allegations and discuss the best defense strategy for your situation.
]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Saia, Marrocco & Jensen Inc.https://www.splaws.com/?p=535882023-12-13T18:44:23Z2023-07-13T17:43:12ZHow likely is it that I will stop at a checkpoint?
OVI checkpoints are not uncommon. The Ohio State Highway Patrol reports that they conducted over 300 checkpoints from 2018 through 2023. Of these hundreds of checkpoints, officials checked over 130,000 vehicles.
Locally, Franklin County officials recently ran two OVI checkpoints in one night. Although not something you will run across every night, there is always the possibility that after a night out you could find yourself waiting in line at an OVI checkpoint.
What should I do if I get a ticket?
If the officer conducting the stop suspects drunk driving, it is possible they will move forward with OVI charges. Those who are charged with drunk driving are wise to take the matter seriously. A conviction can result in monetary penalties, potential imprisonment, and can create a social stigma that impacts professional development.
Know that you can fight back. An attorney experienced in OVI charges can review the situation, discuss defense strategies, and better ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Saia, Marrocco & Jensen Inc.https://www.splaws.com/?p=534902023-05-25T17:16:49Z2023-05-25T17:16:49ZMuch-needed revisions to drug laws
Current statutes are believed to be woefully outdated and reflect a different time. Legislation revising marijuana laws and the standards of the crime comes in response to the significant increase in marijuana licenses that allow for medical use.
Referred to as “per se limits,” where drivers are operating a vehicle with a certain amount of marijuana and its metabolites are in their systems but show no sign of impairment. Removing the limits would end automatic license suspension.
Studies show that cannabis can stay in a user’s system for weeks without ill effects. The bill would allow drivers to have up to 25 nanograms of THC per milliliter in their urine, a significant increase from the previous 10. Blood tests must reach five nanograms of THC per milliliter to trigger an OVI arrest.
In the end, the scientific community believes that evidence shows that impairment should be treated on a case-by-case basis.
Ohio and other states are still finding their way through the myriad of complexities that comes with legalized marijuana. Users legally consuming a legal product should not have to suffer due to outdated, if not archaic, laws.]]>On Behalf of The Law Offices of Saia, Marrocco & Jensen Inc.https://www.splaws.com/?p=534912023-05-23T18:13:54Z2023-05-23T18:13:54Zmaintain your legal ability to drive, submitting to the testing is necessary.
Under a watchful eye
Remaining silent, while your right, clashes with cooperating with the officer. You should turn over your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance upon request. Documents should be easy to locate. If you need to get out of the car to secure those documents, the officer will watch your every move to detect the possibility of alcohol in your system.
Casual conversation is one thing, but oversharing can compromise your criminal case. Every word is documented and included in discovery. Questions about where you were prior to the pullover and the use of medication should be off-limits. Should they ask, politely decline to answer.
Even after all those careful steps, you could find yourself arrested and handcuffed. Keeping your cool is vital. Aggressive behavior will only make a bad situation worse. While it is understandable to be frustrated, especially if it is your first arrest, do not act out.
Whether you have too much to drink or not, a traffic stop can be a harrowing experience. It is essential to know that a criminal charge does not mean you will be automatically convicted.]]>