Author: focusworks

Millburn, NJ, July 27, 2023 – The members of Goodgold West Diaz Maitlin & Klein LLC
are proud to announce Carmen M. Diaz, Esq. as its newest member and Chair of its Family Law Department. With over 15 years of experience, Carmen is a skilled legal advocate with extensive experience in various aspects of divorce and family law including complex divorce litigation, business valuations, prenuptial agreements, child custody, relocation applications, parenting time, psychological parentage, third party custody/visitation, alimony, child support, and domestic violence issues.

Carmen is also a family law mediator, parent coordinator and is frequently appointed by the court to serve as a Guardian Ad Litem or Law Guardian on behalf of minor children. She joins the firm from Newsome O’Donnell, LCC where she was a partner.

“We are excited that Carmen is bringing her expertise and experience to the firm to expand our family law practice, “said Dean Bennett Chair of the firms’ Litigation Department. “A highly respected attorney within Essex County, Carmen will be integral to our growth strategy.”

“Goodgold West Diaz Maitlin & Klein LLC is an outstanding firm, and I am honored to join the team as I continue to grow my practice and the firm as a whole,” said Diaz.

Carmen serves as the Vice President of the Essex County Bar Association and is a trustee of the New Jersey Hispanic Bar Association. She is also appointed to serve on the Family Law Executive Committee of the New Jersey State Bar Association.

Carmen can be reached at (973) 544-0800 ext. 103 or via email at cmd@GWD-law.com

Goodgold West Diaz Maitlin & Klein LLC is located at 33 Bleeker St, Suite 210, Millburn NJ. Phone – 973-544-0800.

Recognizing domestic violence isn’t always easy. The signs can be subtle, the situations complex, and the victims often suffer in silence. Would you know how to spot the signs if you or someone you loved were caught in this perilous situation?

At Goodgold West & Bennett LLC, we believe in empowering individuals with knowledge and guidance. We’ve crafted this article to help you understand the legal definition of domestic violence in New Jersey, learn to recognize its signs, and understand the vital role that a skilled attorney can play in such circumstances.

Defining Domestic Violence in New Jersey

New Jersey Law (N.J.S.A. 2C:25-19) defines domestic violence as a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship, used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another. The instances could range from physical aggression, psychological abuse, forced isolation, to economic deprivation.

Understanding what constitutes domestic violence can be challenging given its broad and varied nature. Domestic violence could manifest in several forms, including:

• Physical Abuse: Physical abuse is not just limited to hitting, punching, or slapping. It can be any form of physical assault or harm, including choking, shoving, or forcibly restraining.
• Emotional Abuse: Emotional abuse can often be more insidious than physical abuse. It includes persistent criticism, belittling, name-calling, and other tactics aimed to degrade the self-worth of the victim, leaving them feeling helpless, worthless, or emotionally unstable.
• Economic Abuse: Economic abuse is often overlooked but is a potent tool of control. It involves manipulative control over financial resources, limiting the victim’s access to funds, or obstructing their ability to work, thereby curbing their financial independence and trapping them in an abusive situation.
• Psychological Abuse: Psychological abuse involves creating a climate of fear, intimidation, and control. It can involve threats of harm, forced isolation from friends and family, manipulation, and control over every aspect of the victim’s life.

As it covers physical, emotional, economic, and psychological abuse, awareness of these aspects empowers individuals to stand against it and seek the legal recourse they need.

Spotting the Signs of Domestic Violence

Recognizing domestic violence is vital in providing support and intervention. However, it’s not always easy to spot, especially when psychological or emotional abuse is involved. The signs can be subtle and complex, and victims often suffer in silence due to fear, guilt, or shame.

One of the first signs to look for is unexplained injuries or frequent ‘accidents.’ Victims may wear clothing to hide injuries or provide unconvincing explanations for their injuries.

Next, pay attention to any changes in behavior or personality. Victims may appear anxious, depressed, or less confident than before. They may also exhibit unusual fear or anxiety around their partner, show excessive obedience, or avoid conflict at all costs.

Isolation is another common tactic used by abusers. Victims may withdraw from friends, family, and activities they previously enjoyed. They may be less communicative or often cancel plans at the last minute.

In conjunction with social isolation, victims may also experience changes in their appearance. They may pay less attention to their personal grooming or wear concealing clothing, even in warm weather.

Remember, each situation is unique, and not every person experiencing domestic violence will show these signs. The key is to maintain open lines of communication and provide non-judgmental support if you suspect someone is a victim of domestic violence.

What to Do When Domestic Violence is Recognized

Recognizing domestic violence is the first crucial step. But knowing what to do next is equally important, both for the safety of the victim and for the legal repercussions that may follow.

• If you believe the victim is in immediate danger, call 911 right away. Ensuring the victim’s physical safety is the immediate priority.
• If the victim confides in you, listen without judgment. Validate their feelings and experiences. Do not press for details, and allow them to share at their own pace.
• Encourage the victim to reach out to local domestic violence hotlines or organizations. They can provide resources, advice, and even shelter if needed.
• Encourage the victim to report the abuse to the police, if they feel safe to do so. They have the right to protection, and law enforcement can help them obtain a restraining order.

Remember, it’s essential to respect the victim’s decisions and maintain confidentiality.

Consult a Domestic Violence Attorney

Domestic violence is a grave concern, and recognizing its signs is crucial to stopping it. Whether you’re a victim seeking protection or someone accused, you can count on Goodgold West & Bennett LLC for professional, trustworthy legal representation.

We’re committed to supporting victims of domestic violence and preserving their rights. Our proficient Millburn family law attorneys can assist in securing temporary and permanent restraining orders, delivering the protection you need.

Conversely, if you’re accused of domestic violence, you deserve a fair trial. As experienced criminal defense attorneys in Millburn, we strive to uphold your rights and reputation.

We’ve represented clients across various courts in New Jersey, providing valuable experience in handling NJ domestic violence cases to secure the best possible outcome for our clients.

Contact us today, break the silence, and let us guide you through this challenging journey. Together, we can surmount the fear and secure justice.

Dealing with a divorce? You may be feeling overwhelmed by the labyrinth of legal proceedings that lie ahead, not to mention the emotional distress that accompanies the dissolution of a marriage.

What if there were a more amicable, confidential, and cost-effective way to traverse this challenging period? This is where divorce mediation in NJ comes into play.

Divorce mediation offers an empowering alternative to traditional divorce litigation. Imagine the relief of not battling out issues in court. Rather, navigating them in a collaborative, respectful environment.

If the thought of a less contentious and more harmonious divorce appeals to you, read on. Let our skilled Millburn divorce attorneys at Goodgold West & Bennett LLC, guide you through the concept and process of divorce mediation.

What is Divorce Mediation?

Divorce mediation in NJ is a cost-effective, confidential, and collaborative approach to dissolving a marriage. Instead of battling out issues in court, couples work with a neutral third party (the mediator) who helps them negotiate and resolve disputes amicably. The mediator doesn’t take sides or make decisions but facilitates open communication to reach mutually satisfying agreements.

Benefits of Divorce Mediation

Divorce mediation presents numerous advantages that serve to reduce the stress and turmoil often associated with divorce proceedings.

Firstly, it provides an environment of control. In traditional divorce proceedings, a judge has the final say. With mediation, you and your spouse have control over the decision-making process, promoting a sense of empowerment and ownership over the outcome.

Secondly, mediation values confidentiality. Traditional divorce hearings take place in a public courtroom, while mediation sessions are private. Everything discussed during your mediation sessions remains confidential, protecting you and your family’s privacy during a highly sensitive time.

Thirdly, there’s an element of flexibility. Every family is unique, with its own set of circumstances. Mediation allows for the creation of personalized agreements that address individual needs, desires, and concerns. Unlike court-imposed decisions, these tailored solutions often lead to better post-divorce relationships and increased compliance with the agreement.

Lastly, divorce mediation can be more cost-effective. Traditional divorce trials can quickly escalate in cost, with attorney fees, court costs, and more. Mediation, in contrast, is typically significantly less expensive. By choosing mediation, you can alleviate financial stress during an already challenging period.

What Happens in Divorce Mediation?

The process of divorce mediation in NJ involves a series of meetings with a neutral mediator, yourself, and your spouse. The mediator’s role is not to take sides or make decisions, but rather to guide discussions and facilitate negotiations.

During the first meeting, you and your spouse will have the opportunity to share your concerns, goals, and desired outcomes for the mediation. This helps set the stage for future discussions.

In the following meetings, issues such as property division, child custody, child support, and alimony will be addressed. The mediator will guide the discussions, helping to ensure they remain productive and respectful. The mediator might suggest potential solutions or ask clarifying questions to help you and your spouse understand each other’s perspectives better.

Once all issues are resolved, the mediator will draft an agreement reflecting your decisions. This agreement will be reviewed by you and your spouse before being submitted to the court for approval.

Know that the process of mediation is voluntary. If at any point it becomes apparent that mediation is not working, you have the right to terminate the process and pursue a traditional divorce proceeding.

Is Divorce Mediation Right for You?

Divorce mediation isn’t for everyone. However, if you seek a private, cost-effective method and are ready to work cooperatively with your spouse, it might be the right choice.

If there are serious power imbalances or domestic abuse, mediation may not be the best route. Your Millburn divorce attorney can provide guidance based on your unique situation.

If you’re weighing the pros and cons of divorce mediation, don’t navigate these difficult decisions alone. Let our seasoned Millburn divorce attorneys help you explore your options and find the path that best fits your circumstances. We frequently serve as panelists in the Essex County Early Settlement Program, assisting hundreds of couples in resolving their disputes amicably.

Contact Goodgold West & Bennett LLC today. With our help, you can turn a new leaf towards a brighter, conflict-free future.

Ever found yourself wondering about the seemingly complex world of marital agreements? It’s common to think about a prenuptial agreement before tying the knot, but what about a post-nuptial agreement in NJ?

Believe it or not, the beauty of such an agreement is that it’s never truly too late to consider. In this dynamic world, situations change, as do our needs and priorities.

Here at Goodgold West & Bennett LLC, we understand that life’s uncertainties can be daunting, especially when it comes to your hard-earned assets and the financial stability of your loved ones.

When Should You Have a Nuptial Agreement?

The ideal time for a nuptial agreement is prior to marriage. However, circumstances sometimes demand attention post-marriage.

Enter the post-nuptial agreement. This type of agreement can be signed at any point after the wedding, helping couples protect their individual interests within the marriage.

Whether it’s due to changes in financial status, a desire to safeguard children’s future, or simply for peace of mind, it is a practical option.

However, the question of timing does revolve around one crucial factor: mutual consent. Both parties must agree to the terms and execute the agreement voluntarily. It is also crucial to note that in the event of a divorce proceeding, having an agreement in place ahead of time is beneficial.

How to Create a Nuptial Agreement

Creating a prenuptial or post nuptial agreement in Millburn, NJ, involves a structured approach.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Open Communication: Begin with honest discussions about assets, liabilities, and expectations. This step forms the bedrock of the agreement. Understand that it’s not about winning or losing but about fairness and clarity.
• List Assets and Liabilities: Document everything — properties, investments, business ownership, debts, etc. Full transparency is essential to avoid legal complications later.
• Decide Terms: Determine how these assets and liabilities will be divided in the event of a separation or death. Also, consider spousal support and child care provisions if applicable.
• Consult an Attorney: Seek legal advice from a reputable Millburn family law attorney. They can help you understand your rights, the legalities involved, and ensure that the agreement meets NJ laws and is fair to both parties.
• Draft the Agreement: Your attorney will draft the agreement reflecting your decisions. Make sure you both read it thoroughly and understand all terms before signing.
• Sign and Notarize: Both parties must sign the agreement voluntarily, and it’s recommended to get it notarized for additional legal standing.

Every situation is unique, and your agreement should reflect your particular circumstances. Involving a competent Millburn family law attorney can ensure that your agreement is compliant with the law, fair, and enforceable.

What Should Your Nuptial Agreement Cover?

A well-crafted Millburn post nuptial agreement should cover areas such as division of property, spousal support, division of debts, and provisions for children, if any.

A comprehensive nuptial agreement should ideally cover the following:

• Division of Property: Detail how your assets, including real estate, investments, and personal property, will be divided.
• Spousal Support: Define whether and how much spousal support (alimony) will be paid in the event of a divorce.
• Division of Debts: State how your debts will be divided. It can include mortgages, loans, credit card debts, etc.
• Child Provisions: If you have children or planning to, decide on matters like custody, visitation rights, and financial support.
• Retirement Plans and Insurance: Agree on how your retirement benefits and insurance proceeds will be handled.
• Estate Planning and Inheritance: Discuss provisions for inheritances and estate planning. It could involve trusts or wills for children or beneficiaries.
• Dispute Resolution: Determine how disagreements over the agreement will be handled. For instance, will you use mediation, arbitration, or court settlement?

Remember, agreements that seem one-sided, or unconscionable, may be invalidated by a court. That is why, it is wise to consult with seasoned Millburn family attorneys to guide you through the process.

Create Your Nuptial Agreement With the Help of Our Family Law Attorney

At Goodgold West & Bennett LLC, we’re dedicated to guiding you through every step of this important process. If you’ve been contemplating a nuptial agreement in NJ, now might be the perfect time to act. Protect your assets, secure your future, and make sure your family is taken care of — no matter what life throws your way.

Interested in discussing your options further? Don’t leave it to chance. Contact us today. Together, we can pave the way toward your secure future.

In the state of New Jersey, with its diverse industries and commercial enterprises, the term ‘white collar crime’ has unfortunately become an all-too-familiar phrase. You’ve perhaps come across it in a headline, during a water-cooler conversation, or in the midst of a boardroom discussion.

However, when that phrase unexpectedly shifts from the abstract to personal relevance, it carries a weight that can feel insurmountable. Suddenly, you or your corporation may be under scrutiny, ensnared in a complex web of accusations and legal jargon.

The repercussions of being charged with a white collar crime can be severe and far-reaching, impacting not only your professional reputation but also your personal life. As such, understanding the nature of these crimes, their nuances, and their potential consequences in New Jersey is crucial.

What are White Collar Crimes?

White collar crimes refer to non-violent offenses typically committed in commercial contexts by individuals or corporations for financial gain. These crimes often involve deception, manipulation, or breach of trust.

Common Types of White Collar Crimes in New Jersey

The complex world of white collar crimes can feel like walking through a labyrinth. To shed light on this, let’s delve into the common types of white collar crimes in New Jersey and what they entail.

1. Fraud

Fraudulent activities cover a wide spectrum. It encompasses a wide array of deceitful activities, all designed to secure unlawful financial gain. Fraud is generally defined as the intentional deception of another individual or entity, done with the knowledge that the actions could result in some unauthorized benefit to the fraudster or another person.

2. Embezzlement

This involves the wrongful appropriation of funds or property entrusted to one’s care, typically in a corporate setting. This could be an employee diverting company funds into personal accounts, or a fiduciary taking money from a trust or estate.

3. Tax Evasion

Tax evasion is an illegal practice where a person, organization, or corporation intentionally avoids paying their true tax liability. Those caught evading taxes may be subject to criminal charges and substantial penalties.

4. Identity Theft

This involves acquiring and using another one’s personal data without their consent for financial gain. This can range from credit card fraud to taking out loans or securing medical services in another person’s name.

5. Bribery

Bribery involves offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value as a means to influence the actions of an individual holding a public or legal duty. This is considered corruption and is a serious offense.

6. Money Laundering

This crime involves making illegally-gained proceeds appear legal by disguising the true origin of the money. This is often done through complex sequences of bank transfers or commercial transactions.

7. Racketeering

Racketeering involves conducting an illegal business or scheme in order to profit. It is often associated with organized crime and includes a range of activities from illegal gambling and prostitution to smuggling and drug trafficking.

Each of these white collar crimes carries its own set of complexities and defenses. If you find yourself implicated in any such activities, it’s essential to reach out to a skilled criminal defense attorney in Millburn, NJ.

Penalties for New Jersey White Collar Crimes

The penalties for white collar crimes in New Jersey vary but can be severe. They often include fines, restitution, probation, community service, and even incarceration. The exact penalty will depend on the crime’s severity, the financial harm caused, and the offender’s criminal history. At this juncture, it becomes vital to seek guidance from a white collar criminal defense lawyer in Millburn, NJ.

Seek a Legal Representation From a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Millburn, NJ

Fighting a white collar crime charge can be a daunting task. It requires a comprehensive understanding of laws, rules, and procedures, paired with an aggressive and strategic defense approach.

Our criminal defense attorneys in Millburn, NJ have a wealth of experience, knowledge, and dedication to every case, ensuring that you receive the best possible defense.

Everyone deserves fair representation. So, when the unthinkable happens, reach out to the best white collar defense lawyer in New Jersey to protect your rights and to turn the tide in your favor. Contact Goodgold West & Bennett LLC today, and let us shoulder the burden of your defense.

Bringing a child into the world can be a very wonderful and joyous experience. While having a child can come with a lot of joy, it is also important that the child is properly taken care of. In some situations, particularly when there is a divorce or the child’s parents are not married, a child custody agreement may be necessary.

When it comes to child custody NJ parents may find that their availability to care for a child can change. In these situations, you may need child custody modifications. There is a lot that someone should know about these modifications, including when they can be done and what process needs to be followed.

When Can You Modify Child Custody Agreements in NJ

A child custody agreement is a binding document that outlines the custody responsibility of each parent. This will include highlighting when a parent will take care of the child throughout the week, month, and year. While these agreements are designed to be long-term agreements, there are plenty of situations and life circumstances that could arise when you need to have the document modified.

One of the most common situations when a child custody agreement may need to be changed is if there is a change in one parent’s work schedule. If a parent is suddenly required to work different shifts or days of the week, it can make sense to modify the agreement. The agreement may also need to be modified based on the schedule of a child. If school or curricular activities change, the custody agreement may need to be modified to accommodate the child.

The ability of a parent to provide necessary care can also influence the child custody agreement. For example, if a parent becomes ill, disabled, or incarcerated, they may no longer be able to provide the necessary care. Also, if one parent has to move out of state, the existing plan may no longer make sense. In these situations, you can often modify the child custody agreement.

Substantial Change in Circumstances To Modify Child Custody Agreement

To change a custody agreement in NJ, you need to show the court that there has been a big change that affects what’s best for the child. This could be things like a parent moving away, problems with school, or abuse in the family. You have to prove that this change is bad for the child and show what the current custody schedule is. Other examples include changes in the work schedule or a child’s growing needs. The court will decide what is best for the child.

How To Modify Child Custody Agreements

For those wondering how to amend a child custody agreement, there are various steps that need to be followed to ensure it is done properly:

• A formal motion needs to be filed. This should be filed by an attorney and will outline the need for a modification.
• Other parents need to be formally served with the motion. This needs to be done with enough time prior to a hearing date to allow the other party to prepare.
• A court-ordered updated custody agreement will then be released. There is the possibility of an appeal if you are not satisfied with the result.

How Goodgold West & Bennett Can Help

If you are in need of a modification to the child custody agreement and are in the area, hiring a Millburn family law attorney is a good idea. The Millburn family attorneys can guide you through the process of a modification of the custody agreements. This can include negotiating with the other party, submitting all formal requests, and potentially presenting the case in front of family law.

When you are looking for family law support, it would be a great idea to call the team with Goodgold West & Bennett LLC. The family law attorneys with Goodgold West & Bennett LLC can provide all of the legal support that you need to ensure you receive a fair custody agreement modification. Contact us today to learn more about their services or even schedule a full consultation.

Child support is a notoriously hot-button topic in family law cases. Issues involving children and money tend to get emotional, even in the best of times. Depending on the circumstances of both parties at the time of the child support ruling and how long ago that was, you may be considering approaching the court for a child support modification in NJ. However, the process behind a modification can be complex and challenging for everyone involved.

To ensure that you get the fair outcome you deserve, it’s important to partner with a Millburn family law attorney. Today, the team at Goodgold West & Bennett LLC is here to discuss some of the main things you need to know about the modification of child support.

When Can You Modify Child Support in NJ

It’s not uncommon for a parent’s financial situation to change regardless of whether they’re the one that pays or receives the child’s support. Should the circumstances change in a significant way, either parent has the right to request that the amount, frequency, or length of the payments be changed.

Changes cannot be asked for or made for any reason, however. One or both of the parents must have had a substantial change in their situation since the original child support order was put into effect. To qualify as a significant change, the change in question must be one that was not known or foreseen when the original ruling was made by the court.

What Are the Reasons for Modifying Child Support?

When the ruling for child support is first made, the judge determines the amount based on a variety of factors in each of the parents’ lives, as well as the New Jersey Child Support Guidelines. To modify the payments, at least one of the following factors must be in play:

• A change in custody arrangements
• Serious illness of a parent or child
• Loss of a home for one of the parents
• Disability of one of the parents
• A significant decrease or increase in the income of one of the parents
• Increase or decrease in the cost of daycare expenses for the children
• Increase or decrease in the cost of health insurance for the children
• Increase or decrease in the number of overnight stays one parent exercises

Please keep in mind that every situation is unique and there may be other factors that warrant asking for a modification. Our team of experienced Millburn family attorneys can help you review your case and determine if you have grounds to ask for a change to child support payments.

How To Modify NJ Child Support

Oftentimes, a judge may expect that you and the other parent have made an effort to try to negotiate with each other before approaching the court for a modification. This, of course, may not be a viable, or even wise, option for many couples. Instead, it’s often a much better option to communicate through your respective attorneys in an attempt to reach an agreement. Should you be successful in coming to an agreement on the modification, the two of you and your lawyers can present your new agreement to the court for filing.

In the event that you cannot reach an agreement on your own, you will need to file a request with the court to modify the support payments instead. As the party requesting a modification, you’ll likely be asked to explain or argue your case before a judge and convince them that you have a valid reason to have the payments changed. This will probably involve discussing the specifics of your income or the other factor(s) behind your request.

Both parents will be asked to appear in court and provide all of the current, relevant information to the court for a judge to review. Once your arguments are heard, and the facts of the situation are taken into account, the judge will make the final ruling.

Get Help With the Modification of Child Support at GFB

When you are looking to revisit or recalculate your child support payments, whether you’re the one paying or receiving the money, the team of Millburn family attorneys at Goodgold West & Bennett LLC is here to help. With our experience and insight into the factors that influence child support, we can help you reach a fair and just ruling in your case.

Planning for your future healthcare and medical needs is very important. One document that can ensure your wishes are met is a healthcare directive. These can offer specific guidance for how you can be cared for in certain situations. There is much that you should understand about healthcare directives, what they can do, and what the different options are.

Purpose of Healthcare Directives

A healthcare directive, which can also be referred to as an advance directive, is a legal document that expresses how a person wants to be cared for in certain situations. These documents are designed to ensure that someone’s wishes are fulfilled if they are unable to make decisions for themselves. The directives can be designed to cover a range of scenarios and can provide clear guidance for family members, healthcare providers, and other parties to determine when care should or should not be provided. These directives can come in various forms.

Types of Healthcare Directives and Their Limitations

If you are looking to plan for your future, having an advanced healthcare directive in place can be a good idea. Advance healthcare directives can ensure you receive the form of care that you want. There are a few different forms of healthcare directives to consider, each of which has its own benefits and limitations.

Living Wills

One of the most common types of advanced directives is living will. One part of a will can be to cover how healthcare is handled in certain situations. These can offer specific instructions for medical treatment and end-of-life care. Some of the limitations of these wills can include that they may not cover all situations, they may not be enforceable if the directive violates state law, and they may not be available during an emergency when a healthcare decision needs to be made.

Medical Power of Attorney

With a medical power of attorney contract, an individual can sign over their medical decisions to a trusted friend or family member. Some of the advantages of this is that it can be flexible as the trusted person will have the ability to make decisions on their own. One of the challenges of these documents as they can lead to disagreements with other loved ones when difficult decisions need to be made.

Do-Not-Resuscitate Orders

Do-Not-Resuscitate Orders, or DNRs, is a type of agreement signed that typically states how a person wants to be treated and cared for if they go into cardiac arrest. With these documents, a healthcare provider will focus on making someone comfortable as opposed to saving their life. Some limitations of this agreement include that it does not cover many healthcare situations, and it may not always be reviewed during emergency situations.

How To Create Healthcare Directives

Formal healthcare directives are very important documents that need to be executed and filed the right way. Once you have determined what directives you want to have in place, you should contact an estate planning attorney. An estate planning attorney in New Jersey will be able to complete the necessary forms and have them filed with the right parties. It would be a good idea to give a copy of these forms to your attorney, your loved ones and heirs, and your healthcare provider. This will help ensure all necessary parties have access to these agreements when needed.

How Goodgold West & Bennett Can Help

If you are looking to plan for your future, having proper and enforceable healthcare directives in place is always a good idea. When you are looking to have these put in place, hiring experienced Millburn estate planning attorneys is a good idea. When you have an attorney help with this, they can provide you with consultation on your options and ensure that the directives are prepared the right way and in accordance with the law. This will help ensure they are enforceable when the time comes.

As you are looking to have healthcare directives put in place, it would be a good idea to call the team with Goodgold West & Bennett LLC. When you need Millburn estate planning attorneys, the legal team with Goodgold West & Bennett LLC can offer all the support you need. This will include ensuring you are made aware of your options and have the directives put in place to ensure your wishes are met.

Millburn, NJ, February 16, 2023 – The members of Maitlin Maitlin Goodgold Brass & Bennett announce the restructuring and rebranding of the firm to Goodgold West Diaz Maitlin & Klein LLC. The full service law firm, located in Millburn, NJ, provides general legal services as well as specialized expertise in various practice areas including: complex litigation, business litigation, insurance coverage and subrogation, personal injury, collections, criminal, professional licensing boards representation, matrimonial, guardianship, employment law, trusts and estates, residential and commercial real estate and corporate transactional work.

The firm is led by co-managing members, Jonathan S. Goodgold and Doni R. Feinberg. Other members are Dean T. Bennett, David E. Maitlin, Richard West and Scott Gorman. Robert J. Brass is of counsel with the firm and Harris Podvey is the chief operating officer.

“Our newly branded firm will provide the attention and expertise our clients deserve and come to expect throughout our representation,” said Feinberg. “We consider ourselves ‘lawyers for people’ meaning that we will represent your interests personally and in business – essentially being your general counsel.”

Jonathan Goodgold added, “We are excited to be able to take this next step in the evolution of our law firm. Goodgold West Diaz Maitlin & Klein promises to continue to bring the same level of legal expertise and availability that our clients need and expect from a full-service law firm. This is just the first step of GFB’s anticipated growth as we look forward to bringing additional practice areas and skilled attorneys to meet our clients’ demands now and into the future.”

Goodgold West Diaz Bennett & Klein LLC is located at 33 Bleeker St, Suite 210, Millburn NJ. Phone – 973-544-0800.

Managing personal finances today has continued to be very challenging for many people. With higher rates of unemployment, skyrocketing housing costs, and an overall increase in the cost of living, finding ways to keep up is quite difficult. For those that are looking for a fresh start, declaring bankruptcy can be a good option. For those wondering what happens after bankruptcy, declaring bankruptcy with the support of a Millburn bankruptcy attorney can provide various benefits that will offer a fresh start.

Fresh Start With Bankruptcy

If you are struggling to manage your personal finances and feel as if you are trapped in debt, declaring bankruptcy can be the best way to move forward. This can be done in a number of ways.

Discharge Your Debt

One of the ways you can receive a fresh start when you declare bankruptcy is by having some of your debt discharged. Credit cards, personal loans, auto loans, and even mortgages can be significant financial obligations that can be hard to repay if you have fallen behind. Fortunately, when you declare bankruptcy, you can have these debts discharged completely.

For those wondering what happens after bankruptcy discharge, the qualified debts will be completely eliminated, and you may not be obligated to repay them in some situations. How each individual debt is managed will be based on the determination of the bankruptcy court, but it typically results in the elimination of many personal unsecured debts.

Stop Collection Actions

If you have ever started to fall behind on making any type of payment to a creditor, you will be very familiar with their processes. This will typically include sending you threatening letters, making collection phone calls, and taking other drastic steps to collect this debt. This can end up causing a lot of stress and aggravation. Fortunately, when you declare bankruptcy, these collection attempts will stop almost immediately. Once formally declared, the creditors will be notified, and these collection attempts should stop.

Protect Assets

One of the concerns that people will have with declaring bankruptcy is that they may need to give up all of their assets. While it is true that some of your assets will go to pay off creditors, you are able to protect many of your assets. Some assets that you can keep include your home if you are current with a mortgage, your car, retirement plans, and retirement savings accounts.

Eliminate Certain Obligations

One of the main benefits of filing for bankruptcy is that you can have certain obligations eliminated completely. Any loan that you have that is unsecured will likely be eliminated. This can include personal loans, credit card debt, or medical bills. The amount eliminated can be offset by any assets that are liquidated.

Recover a Good Credit Score

A concern that you may have with bankruptcy is that it can damage your credit score. While it is true that it will be hurtful, you can receive credit repair after bankruptcy. There are various strategies you can follow that can help to improve your credit, even if you have declared bankruptcy. Eventually, you will once again qualify to take out credit cards or loans.

How Goodgold West & Bennett Can Help

If you are in the Millburn, NJ area and are considering filing for bankruptcy, it is always advisable that you have legal support by your side. There are a lot of legal complexities that come with filing for either Chapter 7 or 13 bankruptcy.

When you hire an attorney, they will first provide a full consultation on your case to determine if this is the right financial decision for your situation. They can then ensure that all bankruptcy paperwork is processed correctly, all creditors are notified, and the proper debts are expunged. They can also handle any negotiations with creditors and the bankruptcy court, which will help ensure you receive a fair outcome.

When you are looking for a bankruptcy attorney in Millburn, NJ, it would be a great idea to call the team of Goodgold West & Bennett LLC. We are an experienced bankruptcy law firm that has helped many clients receive the fresh start they deserve. Give Goodgold West & Bennett LLC a call today to learn more about how we can help you.