Integrity Law Group PLLC

Understanding Compensation in Personal Injury Cases: What You Need to Know

Car crashes, slip and falls, and medical malpractice are just a few examples of accidents that can result in serious injuries. If you have been hurt, and the accident was caused by another person’s negligence, you may be entitled to damages, or financial compensation. Below, our Houston personal injury lawyer explains the types of damages that may be available in your case.

What are Damages in a Personal Injury Case?

Even the highest courts cannot undo the injuries or harm you suffered due to another person’s negligence. The only remedy then, is to award you damages that can compensate for the physical, emotional, and financial harm you sustained. In Texas, there are three different types of damages you may be eligible for. These are economic, non-economic, and punitive damages.

Economic Damages in Personal Injury Cases

After an accident, you will incur many expenses and financial losses. Economic damages are those that have an actual dollar value and so, they are fairly easy to calculate. Common types of economic damages in personal injury cases are as follows:

  • The cost of medical treatment and care, including physical, occupational, and rehabilitative therapy,
  • Lost income, including wages, salaries, bonuses, and benefits,
  • The cost of household services and personal care,
  • Out-of-pocket expenses,
  • Property damage, and
  • In-home care.

If your accident caused a permanent disability, you may also obtain damages for the following:

  • Reduced earning capacity, if you cannot return to the same line of work in the future,
  • Ongoing medical expenses, and
  • The cost of long-term personal care, nursing facility, or in-home care.

A Houston personal injury lawyer will document your expenses and financial losses to ensure you receive the maximum economic damages you are entitled to.

Non-Economic Damages in Personal Injury Cases

While many of the damages you incur will have a quantifiable dollar value, others will not. These damages are known as non-economic damages. Common examples of non-economic damages in personal injury cases are as follows:

  • Physical pain and discomfort,
  • Mental anguish,
  • Emotional distress,
  • Loss of enjoyment of life,
  • Diminished quality of life,
  • Permanent disfigurement or scarring, and
  • Disabilities and impairments.

Due to the fact that non-economic damages do not have a concrete dollar value, they are very difficult to calculate. A Houston personal injury lawyer will know how to accurately value your claim so you obtain the maximum compensation you deserve.

Punitive Damages in Personal Injury Claims

The third type of damages available in some personal injury claims is punitive damages. Unlike economic and non-economic damages, these are not meant to compensate you for your losses. Instead, they are intended to punish defendants for certain types of wrongdoing and to deter them from acting in a similar manner in the future.

To receive punitive damages, you must prove by clear and convincing evidence that the defendant acted with gross negligence, malice, or fraud. A case must also have specific circumstances in order for punitive damages to apply, and the burden of proof is also much higher. For these reasons, punitive damages are rarely awarded in personal injury cases.

Factors that Impact Damages in Personal Injury Cases

There are many factors that will impact the amount of damages you receive in your personal injury claim. These include:

  • The extent and nature of the injuries you sustained,
  • The severity of disabilities and impairments caused by your injuries,
  • Whether you can work and earn an income,
  • The duration of your expected recovery period,
  • The extent to which the injuries have disrupted your life,
  • The type of treatment you need for your injuries, and
  • If your injuries have adversely affected your ability to maintain and engage in your personal relationships.

Essentially, the more an injury has negatively affected your life, the greater the amount of damages you deserve.

Caps on Damages in Personal Injury Cases

As in many other states, Texas law places a cap, or limit, on the amount of certain damages you can receive. If you were hurt by medical malpractice, non-economic damages are capped at $250,000 from a single medical provider. However, if you were hurt by multiple facilities, you can file a claim against each of them and receive up to $250,000 in each claim. Still, the overall cap on non-economic damages in medical malpractice claims is $750,000. There is no cap on economic damages in medical malpractice claims.

When punitive damages are available in a case, they are capped at $200,000 or two times the value of economic damages, whichever is greater.

How Does Comparative Fault Affect Damages?

There are times when accident victims contribute to the accident. For example, you may have been distracted while driving, and you did not see that another driver was not going to stop for a red light. In this instance, you and the other motorist may be found at fault. Distracted driving is not typically viewed as serious an offense as running a red light, and you may be assigned 25% of the blame while the other driver is assigned 75% of the blame.

Under the comparative fault law in Texas, you can still receive damages in a personal injury claim as long as you are less than 51% at fault for the accident. However, the same percentage of your own fault will be reduced from the total damages you receive.

Insurance adjusters often try to shift the blame to accident victims to reduce the total amount of damages they are liable for paying. This is one reason it is so critical to work with a Houston personal injury lawyer who can refute these claims and ensure that you receive the full damages that are rightfully yours.

Call Our Personal Injury Lawyer in Houston Today

After an accident, you may be entitled to a number of different types of damages. At Integrity Law Group, PLLC, our Houston personal injury lawyer can accurately value your claim to determine the full amount of damages you are entitled to and will guide you through the process of obtaining them. Call us today at (832) 280-9576 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation and get the legal help you need.

Navigating Business Contracts: Tips for Successful Negotiations

Contract negotiations can be time-consuming processes that have the potential to become frustrating for all parties. One reason for this is that parties sometimes enter into these negotiations without a clear vision of their priorities and objectives. This lack of focus can result in miscommunication among the parties, unnecessary contract cycles, and unfavorable outcomes. 

Fortunately, there is a way to avoid these obstacles. If you start the negotiation process by focusing on your preferred outcome, you can actually gain a competitive advantage. Below, our Houston business law attorney explains how to make the most out of your negotiations.

Start With a Positive Outlook

Contract negotiations should not be a battle. In fact, the best contracts are negotiated when the two sides involved can come together and work collaboratively. Start any contract negotiation by showing appreciation for the other side and what they have to offer. Find the terms that you can agree on and set a positive tone for the process. This can help ensure that both parties’ interests are met.

Begin With a Draft

Before drafting a formal contract to negotiate with the other side, you should start with a draft. Make sure that you and the other side both agree to the main terms of the agreement. Use a term sheet that is straightforward in order to keep things as simple as possible. If it becomes too complex at any point, start from the beginning once again and work on creating new terms.

Break the Contract Down

It is not realistic to expect the other side to agree to large portions of a contract. This is an all-or-nothing approach to negotiations, and it simply does not work. Instead, break the contract down into smaller portions that can be negotiated separately. Once these smaller portions have been agreed to, they will then form the larger contract.

Simplify the Initial Terms

Contract negotiations become much more complicated when the terms are nuanced, or the agreement contains too much detail. While complex contracts do have some nuanced advantages, it is typically best to begin with terms that are clear and simple so everyone involved fully understands them. This will ensure that even if all parties are not yet in agreement, they at least understand the terms to negotiate without becoming overwhelmed.

Understand Why You Want to Work With the Other Party

Too many people assume that they have to be aggressive during contract negotiations. With this mindset, it is difficult to be flexible, and can actually work against you if the other side believes you are being too demanding. While there is nothing wrong with being assertive to ensure you are being treated fairly, it is best to set aside the competitive mindset during negotiations. Instead, prioritize working collaboratively so you can reach an agreement that serves everyone. Being represented by a Houston business law attorney can help you work with the other side in a professional manner.

Identify Your Top Priorities

You should never enter into contract negotiations without first identifying your top priorities. It is critical that you understand the terms you most want to get out of the agreement. After you have identified these priorities, you can then start to consider the other rewards and risks you may face once your initial priorities are fulfilled. Without first identifying your most important priorities, you really do not have a starting point.

Understand the Other Side’s Goals

Just as you have goals when entering into contract negotiations, so too, will the other side. Before you even begin negotiating, it is important to have an understanding of the other side’s goals and interests. Ask the other side questions to gain a better understanding of their needs and goals. This can allow you to negotiate in a manner that will support the needs of your company while also allowing the other side to meet their goals as well.

Conduct Research

The best contract negotiations are based on facts and not personal feelings. The more facts you have to support your needs, the stronger position you will be in during negotiations. For example, if you are a pest control service provider, you may bring research to the table that shows the service is most effective when done at certain periods. If you cannot find research to support your needs or the terms you would like, using testimonials from previous clients can also be helpful.

Do Not Become Emotional

Contract negotiations can feel personal, particularly if you are very passionate about obtaining certain terms. However, it is critical to remember that contract negotiations are not personal. They are all part of business operations. As such, it is important that you do not become emotional. Instead of making statements such as ‘I feel,’ or ‘I think,’ focus on the facts and allow those, and not your emotions, to guide you.

Do Not Rush the Process

It is important that you take your time not only during negotiations, but before and after them, as well. Carefully conduct research that supports your side, and prepare any documents you may need well in advance of any negotiations or meetings. Throughout the process, do not make any hasty decisions but instead, consider your options carefully and consult with your attorney about which one is best for you. Once negotiations have wrapped up, follow through with any deliverables required of you and answer any questions that still remain.

Work with a Business Law Attorney in Houston

Contract negotiations can feel intimidating and overwhelming, even when you are very familiar with the process. It is for this reason that it is so important to work with a Houston business law attorney. At Integrity Law Group, PLLC, our seasoned attorney can provide the legal representation you need, answer your questions throughout the process, help you identify your goals, and ensure that you receive the best possible outcome. Call us today at (832) 280-9576 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation with our experienced attorney and to learn more about how we can help with your negotiations.

Navigating Divorce: Tips for an Amicable Separation

Ending your marriage is hard enough. The last thing you want to think about is a long and bitter battle in the courtroom to uphold your rights. Fortunately, the vast majority of divorce cases settle outside of court. While it may not seem possible now, you can even get an amicable divorce through negotiation and without any serious legal battles. Below, our Houston family law attorney explains how to do it.

Acknowledge Your Emotions

Getting an amicable divorce does not mean always pretending everything is fine. Divorce is one of the most difficult things you will ever go through. You are bound to feel many emotions during the process. Do not ignore these emotions. Instead, acknowledge them and address them. Get help from family members, friends, or a therapist to help you through this extremely difficult time.

Gather All of Your Financial Information

Divorce is not just an emotional process. It is also a financial process. One of the best ways to prepare for it is to collect all of your financial documents. These include your previous tax returns, investment account information, retirement account information, bank account statements, and more. The more information you can gather the more you can show you are being transparent and trying to ensure the distribution of assets and debts is equitable.

Create a Fair Parenting Plan

If you and your spouse have children together, you will need to create a plan regarding custody and visitation. This plan will dictate when you spend time with your child and how much time you spend with them. There are a number of different elements to include in your plan, such as where your child will spend weekdays, weekends, holidays, and special occasions. It is critical that you cooperate and communicate with your spouse to devise a plan that is beneficial for everyone, keeping your child’s best interests a priority at all times.

Consider Mediation

Texas law does not require that you attempt mediation to resolve your disputes during divorce. Family law judges do have the discretion, though, to order couples to try mediation before bringing their case to court. During mediation, you and your spouse will meet with a neutral, third-party mediator. The mediator will not make any decisions in your case. They are only there to foster communication and compromise between you and your spouse so you can reach an agreement about the different terms of the case.

Even when it is not court-ordered, mediation has many benefits. These include:

  • Obtains an amicable divorce through cooperation and open communication,
  • Allows couples to maintain control over the process and make decisions for themselves, instead of a judge making all final decisions,
  • Faster and more cost-effective than litigation,
  • Reduce conflict and the emotional toll on both children and spouses,
  • Confidentiality,
  • Allows for customized solutions that meet the needs of the family, and
  • Allows for positive post-divorce communication and co-parenting.

Mediators do not provide legal advice. It is always recommended that you work with a Houston family law attorney who will ensure your rights are protected and that any proposed settlement is fair.

Consider a Collaborative Divorce

Collaborative divorce is a process that also occurs outside of the courtroom. This approach involves attorneys, therapists, financial experts, child development professionals, and other consultants. Collaborative divorce involves negotiation and is results-driven. This means that if you cannot negotiate a fair settlement, your lawyer cannot continue working on your case if it enters litigation. This provides motivation for both the divorcing couple and the attorneys to reach an agreement.

Approach Property Division Fairly

Everyone has heard a story about how one spouse fought over an item that does not have a lot of sentimental or financial value just to spite their spouse. This only delays the process and increases the cost of divorce. During the property division process, it is critical that you remain fair and reasonable. While it is important to consider any sentimental attachments you have to certain possessions, it is also just as important to remain open to compromise.

Remain Reasonable About Alimony

If you feel as though you will need spousal support post-divorce, it is important that you are reasonable with your request. Work with an attorney who can help you determine how much you will need, whether your spouse can afford to pay it, and how you will eventually support yourself. If your spouse asks you to pay alimony, also remain reasonable. Try to consider their situation, compromise, and reach an agreement that is mutually acceptable.

Encourage Open Communication with Your Children

Again, divorce is extremely hard on children. Tell your children together, if possible, and reassure them that you will try to ensure their schedules and routines are as uninterrupted as possible. Reassure them that you both still love your children very much and that the divorce is not anyone’s fault. Never speak badly about your spouse to your children, even post-divorce. This is very harmful to a child’s mental health and, in the long run, will likely damage the relationship you have with them.

Addressing Shared Debts

For a smooth transition, it is critical that you address the shared debts and financial obligations of you and your spouse. Draft a plan outlining how you will manage and divide debts such as loans, mortgages, and credit card balances. Having a clearly outlined plan will ensure there are no disputes in the future regarding these debts.

Work With a Family Law Attorney in Houston for an Amicable Divorce

Regardless of how you choose to formally end your marriage, you need sound legal advice. It is essential that you work with a Houston family law attorney who can provide it. At Integrity Law Group, PLLC, our experienced attorney can advise you of your legal rights and obligations and negotiate with your spouse’s lawyer to ensure you receive the full and fair settlement you are entitled to. Call us today at (832) 280-9197 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation and get the legal help you need.

Steps to Take After a Personal Injury: A Guide to Protecting Your Rights

A car crash, medical malpractice, slip and fall, or any other type of accident can turn your life upside down. The medical bills will quickly pile up, and you may be unable to return to work to pay for them. During your recovery, you will also feel significant pain, and potentially invasive medical treatments, and you may not be able to enjoy the things you once did. If someone else’s negligence, or carelessness, caused your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for these losses.

Claiming the full damages you need after any accident is never easy. You must prove certain elements of your case and all the while, the other side will be preparing defenses as to why they should not be held accountable. Below, our Houston personal injury lawyer explains the most important steps to take to protect your claim.

Prioritize the Safety of Everyone Involved

After an accident, the biggest priority is always the safety of others. Make sure that anyone involved in the accident is not in harm’s way and call for medical attention if you or anyone else is injured. If anyone is hurt, call 911 so you can report the accident and obtain the necessary treatment. Making sure everyone is safe will ensure injuries do not become worse and that a secondary accident does not occur.

File a Report

The type of report you file after an accident will depend on what caused your injuries. For example, if you were hurt in a car crash, you should call emergency services so a police report can be filed. Under Texas law, you are required to report all car accidents that cause injury, fatality, or property damage valued over $1,000, or if the vehicles cannot be moved. Within the report, police may indicate which driver was at fault, which can help you prove negligence in the future. After law enforcement has filed their report, you can also use that documentation as evidence that the crash happened, and how it occurred.

Even if you were not injured in a car accident, there are still likely reports you can file. For example, if you were hurt in a store, they may have an incident report for you to fill out. Or, if medical malpractice is the cause of your injuries, the hospital may have a report for you to fill out. You should fill these out but always ask for a copy before you leave the scene of the accident.

Gather Evidence

To prove the different elements of your personal injury claim, you need strong evidence. Some of the best evidence to use is at the accident scene. It is critical that you collect and preserve any evidence that can help prove your case. This can include damaged clothing, personal belongings, and other property. Pictures of the accident scene can also prove how the accident occurred. Also keep all records of medical treatment, prescriptions, and other costs related to your treatment, as this documentation can prove the nature and extent of your injuries.

Seek Medical Treatment

Your health and well-being are the most important priorities after an accident. For this reason, it is critical that you seek medical treatment for your injuries as soon as possible. If paramedics did not arrive on the scene, you should visit an emergency room as soon as you leave the scene. Some injuries do not show symptoms right away, and a doctor can examine you to ensure that injuries are not overlooked.

Additionally, seeking medical treatment as soon as possible will also document your injuries. If you do not see a doctor after an accident, the insurance company representing the negligent party will argue that you were not hurt. They will claim that because you did not seek medical treatment, you could not have been injured during the accident.

Contact a Houston Personal Injury Lawyer

It is critical that you obtain legal advice right away after any accident. A Houston personal injury lawyer can handle all of the legal elements of your claim while you focus on recovering from your injuries. A lawyer will identify the liable party, collect evidence on your behalf, and ensure that your rights are upheld. Studies have also shown that accident victims who work with an attorney obtain approximately three times more compensation than individuals who do not have legal representation. A lawyer will communicate and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf so you obtain the full and fair settlement you are entitled to.

Notify Your Insurance Company

In certain instances, you may have to notify your insurance company about the accident. For example, even though Texas is a tort state, you should contact your auto insurance company after any car accident, even if you were not at fault. Most insurance policies require you to notify your insurer after any crash. If you fail to do this, the insurance company may cancel your policy.

You are likely required to notify your insurance company after any car accident, but you are not required to give them an abundance of information. Simply state that you were involved in an accident and that you were hurt. Remain honest when providing information, but stick to only the basic facts of the case. If an adjuster from the negligent party’s insurance company contacts you, do not feel as though you have to speak to them. Instead, direct them to your attorney who can speak to them on your behalf so your rights are protected.

Our Personal Injury Lawyer in Houston Can Help After an Accident

If someone else’s negligence has caused you serious injury, you deserve compensation for your medical bills, lost income, and more. Unfortunately, obtaining the full settlement you deserve is rarely easy. At Integrity Law Group, PLLC, our Houston personal injury lawyer can advise on the steps to take to protect your rights and help you obtain maximum damages. Call us today at (832) 280-9576 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and get the legal help you need.

Key Legal Considerations for Small Business Owners

Starting a business is an incredibly exciting venture. It can bring financial stability and independence and even a legacy for you to leave behind for your family. However, starting a business can also present unique legal challenges. Before you start operating your business, you must meet certain legal requirements. Below, our Houston business attorney outlines the checklist you need to make sure your small business is in compliance with the law.

Your Business Structure

One of the first things you must decide is the business structure you want to use. Your business structure will have a significant impact on your personal liability in the event of a business lawsuit, the manner in which you will run your business, your business taxes, and the people involved in your company. There are many different types of business structures, and they are as follows:

  • Sole proprietorship
  • General partnership
  • Corporation
  • Limited liability company
  • Limited partnership
  • Limited liability partnership

It is important to speak to a business attorney before choosing your business structure. An attorney can explain more about the different structures and help you determine which one is right for you.

Choosing Your Business Name

After determining which type of business structure you will use, you then need to think of a name for your business. The name of your business will depend on many factors, namely the type of business you are starting. For example, choosing a fun and playful name for your business may be appropriate if you are serving younger crowds or your products and services are not that serious in nature. On the other hand, if your business is more professional in nature, such as an accounting firm, you may want to choose a name that reflects that.

After deciding on a name, you will need to register and file the business name with your local county clerk’s office. You should also consider registering your business name as a trademark so you can use it exclusively.

Tax Considerations

All businesses in Texas and throughout the country have to pay taxes. You will need to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for tax purposes, as well as a sales tax permit if you are going to be selling taxable goods. For example, if you are opening a grocery store, basics such as flour, bread, and eggs are not subject to taxes. However, snack foods are taxable so you will have to obtain an EIN and a sales tax permit for the taxable goods you are selling.

Permits and Licenses

Texas law does not require you to obtain a general business license. However, depending on the type of business you are starting, you may need certain licenses and permits. These permits and licenses are issued by local councils. You may need zoning permits, health permits, building permits, occupational permits, tax permits, or signing permits. Our Houston business attorney can help you determine which permits and licenses you need so that once your business is in operation, it stays in operation.

Insurance Considerations

Texas law does not require many types of business insurance. For example, if you have employees, you can likely choose not to purchase workers’ compensation in the event that any of them become injured on the job. Purchasing workers’ compensation is not generally required of business owners in Texas. Still, there are certain types of insurance you should purchase to protect your business. If you do purchase workers’ comp, for instance, it can protect you from liability lawsuits in case one of your employees becomes hurt.

General liability insurance is also recommended for small business owners. This type of insurance can protect you from personal liability if someone becomes hurt on your business’ property. If your company uses vehicles to conduct business, you are also required to obtain commercial auto insurance.

Protect Your Intellectual Property

Your intellectual property is likely at the core of your business. It is the very thing that makes your business what it is, and what makes it stand out among your competition. Intellectual property can include trade secrets, trademarks, formulas, recipes, copyrights, and patents. Filing a patent can take as long as five years, so it is important that you start this process right away.

Making sure that your intellectual property is protected can attract investors in the future, but it also provides you with the reassurance that you will be able to keep operating your business in the same manner. For example, if you are a restaurant and do not protect the secret recipe that contributes to your success, someone else could use it in the future. In fact, they may even be able to patent it to prevent you from using it even though you were the one who created it.

Draft an Employee Handbook

It is important to draft an employee handbook that outlines your business’ policies, and the rights and responsibilities of your workers. For example, an employee handbook can outline the protocol to follow if a worker feels as though they were a victim of sexual harassment or discrimination. 

In addition to creating an employee handbook, you should also review it regularly and make the necessary revisions to ensure that your company is in compliance with federal, state, and local laws. If you do not give every worker their own individual handbook, you should keep a copy in a visible place that is easily accessible, such as a staff room.

Our Business Attorney in Houston Can Advise You of the Key Legal Considerations

Starting a business is exciting, but there are many legal considerations, as well. It is important that you know what these are so you and your company are protected. At Integrity Law Group, PLLC, our Houston business attorney can answer your questions, make recommendations, and make sure you are in compliance with all of the laws that affect your business. Call us now at (832) 280-8874 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation with our experienced attorney and get the legal help you need.

Understanding Child Custody Laws: A Parent’s Guide

Whether you are getting a divorce or have a paternity issue, you will have to resolve the matter of child custody. In Texas, child custody is known as ‘conservatorship,’ although many people simply refer to it as ‘custody.’ Below, our Houston family law attorney outlines the different types of custody, how the process works, and what you can expect as an outcome.

Different Types of Child Custody in Texas

There are two main types of custody in Texas. These are legal custody and physical custody. Legal custody gives one or both parents the right to make decisions regarding the child and their day-to-day life. When a parent has legal custody, they can make decisions about the child’s medical treatments, the education the child receives, the religion they are raised in, and other activities.

Physical custody refers to when a parent spends time with the child. In the majority of cases, both parents are awarded joint custody, meaning they will each spend approximately the same amount of time with the child. In the rarest of cases, the courts may completely deny one parent visitation or any access to the child at all. In these instances, it is usually due to domestic violence and abuse. 

Sole custody, which refers to a situation in which one parent lives with the child and makes decisions for them, typically requires the other parent to terminate their rights. This is extremely rare. It is also very difficult to prove that one parent deserves sole custody and the other does not deserve their parental rights.

The courts are much more likely to award joint custody when the parents can show that they are willing to work together in the best interests of the child. Additionally, when the parent who does not have primary custody can continue to live close to the child, they will likely be awarded more time with the child than one who moves further away from their child.

The Best Interests of the Child

In Texas, as in all other states, all child custody decisions are made based on what is in the best interests of the child. The factors that impact the best interests of the child are as follows:

  • The age and health of the child,
  • The age and health of the parents,
  • Whether the parents or the child has special needs,
  • The home environment each parent can provide the child with,
  • The relationship between the child and their siblings or other family members,
  • The preference of the child, depending on their age and maturity,
  • Any history of domestic violence,
  • Where the parent lives and works and how it impacts the amount of time they spend with the child,
  • The educational needs of the child,
  • The level of involvement each child has in their child’s life, and
  • Any other factor deemed relevant by the court.

How Does the Child Custody Process Work in Texas?

Child custody disputes in Texas begin when one parent files a petition for conservatorship with the court. The person who files must officially serve the other parent with the petition. The parent who is served then has 20 days to submit an answer to the court. If the parent who is served with the petition does not intend to contest the terms within the petition, they can waive the need for service.

If a child custody case is uncontested, both parents will agree on a custody schedule and parenting plan. When the parents cannot reach an agreement, it becomes a contested case, and more formal intervention is necessary. The court will likely begin a disputed child custody case by sending it to mediation. During mediation, the two parents and their lawyers will meet with a neutral third-party mediator. Mediators do not provide legal advice or make decisions. They only try to foster communication and compromise so the parents can ultimately reach an agreement.

When parents can agree, either before or after mediation, they will need to draft a parenting plan and submit it to the court. If the plan reflects the best interests of the child, and is fair to both parents, the court will approve the plan. To ensure this happens and that the process moves along as quickly as possible, it is important to work with a Houston family law attorney who can help you create your plan.

There are times when the parents cannot agree and mediation is unsuccessful. In these cases, the issue will have to be resolved in court, where a judge will make all final decisions.

How to Modify Child Custody Orders in Texas

Even when parents agree on a parenting plan, a judge will issue an order that makes the plan final and legally binding. However, just as with everything else in life, your circumstances may change at some point in the future. When this happens, you may want to change your child custody schedule. You can do this, but you cannot do it on your own.

To modify a child custody order, you must petition the court. This essentially means that you are asking the court for permission to change the order. When petitioning the court, you must present clear evidence showing why a change is necessary and argue your case. If you are successful with your case, the judge will modify the order, and the change will become legal.

Without petitioning the court, it is critical to keep custody arrangements the same. If you make changes on your own, you will be in violation of the custody order, and this carries serious penalties. These include high fines, being held in contempt of court, and even jail time. 

Our Family Law Attorney in Houston Can Help With Your Custody Matter

Whether you have an initial custody issue or you need to modify an order, our Houston family law attorney at Integrity Law Group, PLLC, can help. Our experienced attorney can help you draft a plan, petition for a modification, and ensure you receive the best possible outcome. Call us now at (832) 280-8874 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation and to get more information.

Essential Steps in Estate Planning: Securing Your Family’s Future

Financially speaking, the laws in Texas regarding the bequeathal of assets are relatively forgiving. In the Lone Star State, there are no estate or inheritance taxes, which can make things easier for your loved ones after you pass away. Still, do not be fooled into thinking that because of this, it is not worthwhile to put time and effort into planning for your estate. Nor should you think the process is always straightforward. Below, our Houston estate planning attorney outlines the most important steps to take when planning for the future.

Create an Inventory of Your Tangible and Intangible Assets

Estate planning begins with taking a comprehensive inventory of your tangible and intangible assets. It may be obvious that you include certain types of property, such as valuable jewelry, real estate, bank accounts, art, electronics, and vehicles. However, there are also certain types of intangible property that you should also consider and include within your inventory. Intangible property you will have to account for includes cryptocurrency, social media accounts, and life insurance policies and annuities.

Create an Inventory of Your Debts

Just as you should create an inventory of all of your assets, it is just as important to create an inventory of your debts. Your debts may include credit cards, mortgage and auto loans, other open lines of credit, and other types of debts. Along with the different types of debt you currently carry, you should also include contact information for creditors and other holders of debt, as well as any relevant account numbers.

Name Your Beneficiaries

When you name beneficiaries, you designate the individuals or entities who will receive your tangible and intangible property as part of their inheritance. You should carefully consider who you want to name as your beneficiaries. While loved ones are the obvious choice for many people, you can also name friends, charities, trusts, and organizations. Along with naming your beneficiaries, you should also specify the tangible and intangible assets you want them to receive.

Meet With Your Financial Planner or CPA

Meeting with your Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or financial planner early in the process can make it easier to review your earnings and optimize them, consider additional savings tools, and consolidate accounts. Meeting with a financial professional can also help you determine if you want to take more advanced steps in the future, such as setting up a revocable or irrevocable trust. When taking these steps, it is always recommended that you speak with a Houston estate planning attorney.

Outline Your Goals for Estate Planning

Different people have different goals for estate planning, and it is important to determine yours early in the process. You may want to use your estate plan to avoid family disputes in the future, make sure your property is passed on to your heirs and beneficiaries, or provide financial security for your family members. Whatever your goals are, define them early, and they will guide you through the rest of the process.

Name Your Fiduciaries

Your fiduciaries are individuals or entities who will manage you, your property, or your money in the event that you pass away or become incapacitated and cannot manage them yourself. Your fiduciaries may include:

  • A guardian of your children
  • Financial power of attorney
  • Medical power of attorney
  • Executor
  • Trustees

The above entities have a legal duty to manage you, your loved ones, or your assets for your benefit and not for theirs. Due to this, it is critical that you are very cautious when naming your fiduciaries and that you only name people whom you deeply trust and who you know will respect your wishes.

Meet With an Attorney Who Can Help You Create an Estate Plan

To ensure that your estate planning documents are legal and enforceable, it is critical that you work with a Houston estate planning attorney who can help you finalize your plan and draft legal documents. The tasks an attorney can help with include, but are not limited to:

  • Drafting legal directives
  • Naming beneficiaries in transfer on death (TOD) deeds
  • Drafting your last will and testament
  • Assigning powers of attorney (POA)
  • Creating medical directives
  • Creating trusts
  • Understanding the business entity and asset protection
  • Forming a family limited partnership

Working with an attorney can also make sure you fully understand all of your legal options. A lawyer can also help you create important documents that will protect your loved ones from challenges during the probate process. When your documents have been drafted by an attorney, it will be easier for your beneficiaries to prove the validity of them.

Execute Your Plan

After completing the complicated process of planning your estate, there is just one more step you have left to take, and that is to execute your estate plan. This step can involve many details, which may include:

  • Signing documents
  • Funding trusts
  • Transferring assets
  • Updating beneficiary designations

An estate planning lawyer can help you with the above tasks and identify anything else that must be done to execute your estate.

Periodically Review Your Plan

Many people think that estate planning is a ‘set-it-and-forget-it’ type of task. It is not. The purpose of estate planning is to get your affairs in order before you pass away or become incapacitated, and those plans may very well change in the future. You should review your estate plan any time there is a significant life event such as a birth, death, divorce, or marriage. Even without these important life events occurring, it is still advisable that you review your plan every two to three years to ensure it still reflects your wishes.

Our Estate Planning Attorney in Houston Can Help

Estate planning can be complex and overwhelming. At Integrity Law Group, PLLC, our Houston estate planning attorney can help reduce the stress when creating your plan and make sure it includes everything necessary to make sure you and your family are protected. Call us now at (832) 263-1828 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to get the legal help you need.

How to Handle Contractual Infringements by Your Business Partner

After forming a business partnership, the parties often draft a formal partnership agreement. The main purpose of a partnership agreement is to detail each party’s rights and responsibilities and outline what will happen if one party breaches the agreement. A breach of a contract agreement is very difficult for all parties. Below, our Houston business law attorney outlines the steps to take after a contractual infringement by your business partner.

What is Included in a Partnership Agreement?

Forming a business partnership is about so much more than simply doing business together. It is also about establishing a contractual business relationship. The priorities and preferences of the parties involved guide the particular terms of a partnership agreement. The majority of contracts between business partners answer the following questions:

  • Which party or parties have financially contributed to the partnership, and how much were those contributions worth?
  • Which party or parties have agreed to make continuing financial contributions?
  • Is the partnership a limited partnership, a general partnership, or another form of partnership?
  • What are the legal rights and obligations of each partner?
  • How much compensation will each partner receive?
  • How will an infringement of a partnership agreement be resolved?
  • What are each of the partners’ fiduciary duties to the partnership?
  • Who has the right to vote, the obligation to vote, and when?
  • How can someone become a partner?

A properly drafted agreement with well-defined terms makes all the difference when an infringement occurs. Our Houston business law attorney can draft an agreement that will limit disputes and outline how to resolve them if they arise.

Why Do Contractual Infringements Arise?

A contractual infringement in a business partnership can happen for a number of reasons. The most common of these include:

  • Missing or ambiguous terms: When a contract is not properly drafted, it can cause confusion between the parties about their legal rights and obligations under the agreement. Missing or ambiguous terms can cause disputes to arise between partners.
  • Using company funds improperly: Infringements can arise when a partner spends company funds unscrupulously or improperly. This can affect not only the partnership but also the relationships between the partners and other associates and the business as a whole.
  • Acting without authority: Any time a partner acts without authority, it can cause issues in the business. For example, one partner may become excited about a potential business deal and sign the business up for it without obtaining the appropriate permission from the other partners.
  • Failing to recognize or address conflicts of interest: Conflicts of interest can happen when one partner is presented with an opportunity in which they will personally benefit. This alone does not necessarily create a conflict of interest, but it can be a red flag. Partners who fail to address possible conflicts of interest can breach their ethical obligations to the business.

When any of the above contractual infringements occur, there are a number of ways to resolve them.

Filing a Claim for Breach of Contract

If your partner has acted outside of the terms of the partnership agreement, you or the business may have to file a lawsuit against your partner for breach of contract. A breach of contract action can include allegations that your partner acted in bad faith. 

Under Texas law, all business partners are required to act in good faith. Business partners owe a duty of care to the company. Depending on the specific issue, you may also have to file a claim for a breach of fiduciary duties against your business partner.

Negotiating a Settlement

Not all lawsuits will end up in the courtroom. You and your partner may be able to negotiate a settlement agreement. In most cases, settlements occur while a lawsuit is pending, but there are exceptions to this. During negotiations, the parties will define what happened and the possible remedy that may be appropriate. As part of a settlement, the partners involved typically agree to keep the settlement amount and other arrangements confidential.

Expelling the Infringing Partner from the Business

Depending on the specific circumstances and the terms of the partnership, it may be possible to remove the infringing partner from the business. The applicable law and the terms within the contract, such as a buy-sell agreement, may determine if this option is available to you.

Pursuing Damages

The best option for remediating harm sustained by the business may be to pursue damages from the infringing partner. Again, the terms of the partnership agreement and the applicable law may define the amount of damages that are available. A business law attorney can help you maximize the damages you can pursue.

What Happens if You and Your Partner Do Not Have a Formal Agreement?

It is always recommended that business partners draft an agreement in the event that a dispute arises. However, not all partners draft these contracts when forming a partnership. If this is the case for you, there are still possible options under the Texas Business Organizations Code if your business partner has acted improperly. 

The Code provides options if you have a partial or incomplete agreement. Under Section 152.211(a), you can move forward if your partner has violated any duties under the partnership. To understand what these are, it is important to work with a Houston business law attorney who can advise you or your legal options.

Our Business Law Attorney in Houston Can Help After a Contract Infringement

For business owners, there is nothing more important than protecting your business, your investments, and your business relationships. At Integrity Law Group, PLLC, our Houston business law attorney has the ability to draft an agreement for you that will help you accomplish all of these tasks. 

If your partner has already infringed on a contract, we can advise you of your legal options and the next steps to take, as well. Call us now at (832) 280-9197 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation with our experienced attorney and learn more about how we can help.

Securing Your Legacy: The Advantages of Estate Planning

It is a common misconception that estate planning is only appropriate for the wealthy or people of a certain age, but these are common misconceptions. The main benefit of having an estate plan in place is to ensure that your last wishes are executed in the event that you pass away. Without an estate plan, your property is unprotected and the intestate succession laws will apply. This means people may inherit your assets, and those people may not align with your wishes.

In addition to making sure the appropriate loved ones receive their inheritance, an estate plan can also protect your beneficiaries from certain taxes and other legal requirements. Below, our Houston estate planning attorney outlines more benefits of having a plan in place.

Eliminate the Need for Your Family to Make Hard Decisions

Estate planning can provide your family with the peace of mind they will need following your death. If you do not have an estate plan in place, your family members will have to determine who will inherit certain property of yours, and this is often extremely stressful for families. By taking the time to create a comprehensive estate plan, you will retain control over what will happen to your property after you pass away.

Also, if you ever become incapacitated at some point in the future, your family will also have to make important medical decisions on your behalf. These decisions are also very difficult and your family may not know of your wishes. Through an estate plan, you can create a will, power of attorney, health care proxy, and a medical power of attorney. These important legal documents can dictate these decisions, so your loved ones do not have to make them. They can also give you the peace of mind you need during your lifetime.

Protect Your Children

If you still have minor children, an estate plan can determine what will happen to them if you pass away or become incapacitated and cannot care for them. For many parents, choosing a guardian for minor children is the most important aspect of estate planning. This is a decision that requires serious thought, as the impact on your children will be significant. Most parents want to make this decision on their own instead of the courts making the decision for them.

There are certain priorities the Texas courts give to family members when making decisions about guardianship. For example, in most cases, the courts will appoint a grandparent to become a guardian in the event that neither parent can care for their children. If you want someone else to become guardian of your children, it is critical that you create an estate plan that makes your wishes known.

Limit Taxes and Legal Fees

If you include certain documents in your estate plan, it can allow your beneficiaries to receive their inheritance in a timely manner. A trust, for example, will protect your family members from going through the probate process which can include legal fees, court costs, and attorney fees. Probate is not only an expensive process, but it is also a lengthy one. If your entire estate has to go through probate, it can take a long time for your beneficiaries to receive their inheritance.

Trusts do not have to go through the probate process and so, the inheritance you left for loved ones can be distributed to them directly. It is important to work with a Houston estate planning lawyer who can advise on the best ways to limit taxes and legal fees.

Make Specific Bequests

Individuals commonly want to include certain bequests in their estate plan. Bequests are any gifts given to beneficiaries as part of a will. Bequests can include prized vehicles, art collections, family heirlooms, antiques, and more. There are also many different types of bequests. For example, a residuary bequest grants a person any remaining portion of the estate once all other property has been distributed.

Name Your Own Personal Representative

One of the most important aspects of any estate planning is the naming of a personal representative. A personal representative of any estate has many responsibilities. They must pay the expenses and final costs of the deceased, manage the estate, handle creditor claims, and more. Personal representatives have a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of the estate, so it is essential that the person you choose is trustworthy.

Without an estate plan in place, the court will name a personal representative on your behalf. This may not be the person you would have chosen. Creating an estate plan during your lifetime will give you the reassurance that upon your death, your personal representative will be someone you trust to make the best decisions.

Continue Business Operations After Your Death

If you own and operate a business and you do not create an estate plan, there is a real possibility that your death may cause the business to shut down. This will not only create unnecessary financial hardship and stress for your loved ones, but it may also lead to your legacy being unprotected. If you do want to pass your business down to a loved one as an inheritance, creating an estate plan will ensure they receive it after your death and that your legacy will be protected. An estate plan can also leave specific instructions for the family member you want to take over the business, so they can run it just as successfully as you did.

Call Our Estate Planning Lawyer in Houston to Get Started Today

Regardless of your situation, it is essential that all adults have an estate plan in place. At Integrity Law Group, PLLC, our Houston estate planning lawyer can help you draft the important documents that will help your family members make difficult decisions, and that will ensure your final wishes are fulfilled. Call us now at (832) 280-8874 or contact us online to request a consultation with our experienced attorney and to obtain the legal advice you need.

Protecting Your Personal Assets in the Event of a Business Lawsuit

It is critical to protect your personal assets in business, particularly when you are facing a lawsuit. A lawsuit will be bad enough for your business, but you do not want it destroying your personal property, as well. Below, our Houston business law attorney outlines some of the best ways to protect your personal assets in the event of a business lawsuit.

Use Proper Business Entities

Using the right business entity is critical for protecting your personal property in the event of a business lawsuit. To give yourself peace of mind and a sense of security, you should consider all possible options before making a final decision, from limited partnerships to corporations to LLCs. Do not unnecessarily make yourself vulnerable. By establishing the proper business entity, you will have legal protection in the event of litigation or a business dispute. The different business entities and the protection they do or do not provide are as follows:

  • Sole proprietorships: As a sole proprietor, you and your personal assets have no protection in the event of a business lawsuit. One mistake can jeopardize your personal assets, as well as your business’ profits and income.
  • General partnerships: A business partnership can be profitable for all parties, but it can also come with some risks. If your business is sued, you and your partner could be held jointly liable, so it is important to choose partners carefully.
  • Limited partnerships: A limited partnership will allow you to enjoy the benefits of being an entrepreneur without exposing yourself to the risks associated with it. When you structure your business as a limited partnership, any lawsuits filed against the business do not extend to any assets outside of it. 
  • Corporations: Establishing a corporation is a great way to protect your personal assets in the event of a business lawsuit. Generally speaking, your personal assets are not vulnerable to a business lawsuit unless fraud is involved.
  • Limited Liability Companies: LLCs offer great asset protection, as well as flexible taxation options. Owners of an LLC can protect their business from creditors, who would only be awarded a membership interest without gaining control or access over the assets of the company.

Insurance

Certain professions, such as doctors, financial advisors, and real estate agents, are at particular risk of having a lawsuit filed against them. Insurance is very valuable when trying to protect your personal assets, so it is critical to ensure that coverage is sufficient and that it remains current. Sometimes, investing in extra coverage can be the difference between staying afloat or facing financial ruin during a lawsuit. The different types of insurance businesses may need are as follows:

  • Homeowners insurance
  • Commercial liability insurance
  • Worker’s compensation insurance
  • Auto insurance
  • Umbrella coverage
  • Long-term care insurance

Utilize Retirement Accounts to Protect Assets

Under federal law, retirement accounts offer a great deal of asset protection. Retirement plans that are ERISA-qualified have unlimited asset protection. It is critical to consult with a Texas business law attorney who knows the law and who can help determine whether creditors can choose between the federal and state exemption amounts.

Titling

You can protect property that is co-owned by looking at the titling options that are available. Tenancy by the entirety is an agreement between married couples that is legally binding and that protects the primary residence from a spouse’s creditors. This option does not always apply to investment properties, but there may be other forms of protection, such as tenants in common or joint tenancy, which can provide protection in the event the owner of the property passes away. To fully understand what title you need for your situation and to secure maximum asset protection, it is important to consult a lawyer who can help with these options.

Transfer Ownership to Family Members

Maintaining control of your assets is critical to ensure your financial security. By creating an irrevocable trust, you can place property into the trust, which protects it from creditor claims while also providing an inheritance or income stream for your family members and other loved ones in the future. This is only a viable option if you have sufficient funds, and the transfer of ownership will not leave you insolvent. Some of the most common types of trusts used to protect assets from lawsuits are as follows:

  • Domestic asset protection trust: This type of trust exists solely for the benefit of the person who created the trust. A domestic asset protection trust allows the creator to keep a certain degree of interest in the property in the trust. Unlike in other states, though, a domestic asset protection trust does not protect the creator if they are also the beneficiary of the trust.
  • Lifetime qualified terminable interest trust: A lifetime qualified terminable interest trust is for the benefit of the spouse, and they utilize the gift tax marital deduction to reduce overall taxes. This type of trust can also use the federal estate tax exemption for the less wealthy spouse and provide a lifetime of asset protection for the benefit of the wealthier spouse.
  • Medicaid planning trust: Through a Medicaid planning trust, a person can qualify for Medicaid and still maintain an income for the spouse who does not apply. When assets are transferred into these trusts, they can pass to heirs who are protected from the government’s estate recovery, which would require the Medicaid assets to be paid back during the lifetime of the creator.
  • Spousal lifetime access trust: A spousal lifetime access trust is created for the benefit of a spouse and uses the lifetime gift tax exemption as well as the annual exclusion gifts.

Our Business Law Attorney in Houston Can Help Protect Your Assets

As a business owner, it is important that you not only protect your company, but your personal property, as well. At Integrity Law Group, PLLC, our Houston business law attorney can advise on your case and suggest the best asset protection tools to use. Call us now at (832) 280-8874 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to learn more.

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