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18 Dec, 2023
As Christmas nears, it's a crucial time for residents in Missouri and beyond to be reminded of the increased risks associated with drinking and driving during the holiday season. Ensuring a safe and merry Christmas involves celebrating responsibly and being aware of the dangers of impaired driving. Christmas, a time filled with joy, family gatherings, and festive parties, also sees a notable rise in alcohol consumption. This increase naturally leads to heightened vigilance from law enforcement agencies. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration points out that during the holiday season, there's an uptick in police patrols and DUI checkpoints, all aimed at curbing drunk driving. To fully enjoy the Christmas festivities without the looming risk of a DUI or, more crucially, an accident, here are some essential precautions to consider: Designate a Sober Driver: Plan your travel in advance. If attending a party, ensure either you or a friend remains sober to drive back home. Utilize Rideshare Services: Apps like Uber and Lyft can be a safe and convenient way to return home after a night of celebration. Moderate Your Drinking: Enjoy the holiday cheer in moderation. Keeping track of your alcohol intake can help you stay within safe limits.  Host Responsibly: If you're throwing a Christmas party, take responsibility for your guests. Prevent anyone from driving under the influence and offer them a place to stay if necessary. The importance of these precautions is underscored by alarming statistics. For instance, the NHTSA reported a significant number of alcohol-related traffic fatalities during the past Christmas holidays, highlighting the severe consequences of drunk driving. By staying informed and making responsible choices regarding alcohol consumption, you can help ensure a safe holiday season for yourself and others. Remember, in the unfortunate event of facing DUI charges, you are entitled to legal representation. However, this information should not replace professional legal advice. Have a joyful and safe Christmas celebration!
Winter Safety in Missouri: Essential Tips to Prevent Accidents and Injuries
14 Nov, 2023
As Missouri's winter sets in, bringing picturesque snowy landscapes, residents must also brace for the increased risks of slips, falls, and related injuries that come with this season. Understanding and implementing key safety measures is crucial for everyone in the community to enjoy a safer winter. The statistical significance of winter-related accidents is noteworthy. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2014, ice, sleet, and snow incidents led to 1,040 injuries and illnesses in Missouri. This rate of 4.8 incidents per 10,000 people was higher than the national average, highlighting the need for heightened awareness and preventive measures. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides several helpful tips for individuals and communities in mitigating winter hazards. Among these, promoting safe driving practices during winter is paramount. Everyone must be extra cautious, particularly when driving in snow or icy conditions. Regular maintenance of personal property, including clearing snow and ice from driveways, sidewalks, and entrances, is vital for individual safety and for the protection of others. During severe winter weather, minimizing travel and outdoor activities can also significantly reduce the risk of accidents. Safety should be the foremost concern when dealing with snow accumulation, particularly on structures like roofs. The dangers of clearing snow from elevated surfaces include the risk of falls or encountering obscured hazards like skylights. It's often safer to employ methods of snow removal that do not require individuals to climb onto potentially hazardous surfaces. By adhering to these safety tips and remaining vigilant, Missouri residents can significantly reduce the risks associated with winter weather. Staying informed and prepared allows everyone to enjoy the winter season while minimizing the potential for accidents and injuries. Get Help Today! If you or a loved one has been impacted by a winter-related accident in Missouri, know that you are not alone. At Kelly Reed Jansen Law Firm, we understand the complexities and challenges these incidents can bring into your life. Our dedicated team of attorneys are committed to providing you with the support and representation you need.
5 Things to Remember When Working on a Custody Agreement
18 Oct, 2023
When working on a custody agreement, whether as part of a divorce or separation, it's essential to create a plan that prioritizes the children's best interests. Here are five essential things to remember when developing a custody agreement: Keep your eye on the goal – the well-being of your children. The primary consideration in any custody agreement should be the well-being of the children. The agreement should promote their physical, emotional, and psychological health and development. We understand how difficult it may be to stay focused on this – especially if you were hurt as your relationship with your co-parent dissolved. However, avoid using the custody agreement to gain leverage or retaliate against the other parent. Make sure the custody agreement sets clear and specific terms. The custody agreement should be detailed and specific. It should outline the schedule for visitation and custody, including holidays, vacations, and special occasions. The plan can outline specific times and meeting places so you can plan your holidays and breaks years in advance. Clear terms can help prevent future disputes and ensure both parents understand their roles and responsibilities. Maintain communication with your co-parent – if possible. Effective communication is crucial. It's best if parents maintain open and respectful communication with each other. While you may struggle with this at first, the passage of time may help. Establishing a method of contact and a process for addressing any disputes or changes to the agreement is often helpful. For example, you and your co-parent could communicate best through email. Also, using a mediator or family counselor can facilitate productive discussions. Understand that life is full of unexpected events and changes. Life is full of changes, and custody agreements should allow flexibility. For example, unexpected events, such as job changes or relocations, can affect the agreement. Consider including clauses that allow for modifications when necessary, provided they are in the child's best interests. Hire expert legal counsel to guide you during the custody process. When creating a custody agreement, consulting with a family law attorney is highly advisable – especially if your co-parent is especially dominant. An attorney can provide guidance, ensure that the agreement adheres to local laws, and help protect your rights and interests. Finally, legal professionals can help you navigate any disputes or modifications to the agreement. Custody experts often have years of experience handling these situations and recognize red flags when they see them. If you are in the KC Metro and need assistance with matters of child custody, schedule a consultation with Kelly, Symonds, & Reed, LLC. One of the focuses of our law practice is paternity and child custody. We have helped many families during this emotional process and can help you and your children, too. At Kelly, Symonds, & Reed , we remember that a custody agreement is not just a legal document – it's a plan for co-parenting and ensuring the welfare of your children. Contact us today with your questions about custody and paternity by filling out the contact form on our website or giving our office a call.
29 Sep, 2023
The State of Missouri imposes a legal duty on both parents to financially support their child. A custodial parent provides direct care and support, and the non-custodial parent often provides financial support for the child’s care through monthly contributions that go towards the child’s living expenses. Here's more information about how child support works in KCMO: FAQs About Child Support in KC Whether you are a custodial parent or just getting started in the divorce process, you probably have questions about how child support works in Kansas City. The best answers will come from a Missouri divorce attorney. However, here is some general information that might help. How long does child support last in Missouri? Missouri requires parents to financially support their children until they turn 18. However, unlike most other states, Missouri parents may be required to continue supporting a child past 18 if they are enrolled in vocational school or college. Depending on the situation, the parent may have to pay until a child turns 21 – or graduates, whichever comes first. How do I request child support if I’m not married to the other parent? You need a child support order from either a Missouri court or the Missouri Family Support Division (FSD) to receive child support. If you are not married to the parent, you must establish paternity before getting a child support order. If you go directly to the court to establish paternity, you may request that the court order child support. Alternatively, you may apply to FSD for paternity establishment and the child support order. How much is child support in Missouri? Courts use several factors or guidelines when determining the amount of a child support award in Missouri. These guidelines can be found in Form 14 . However, these guidelines act as a base amount. The court has the discretion to increase or decrease the amount of child support to produce the most fair result. What happens if the other parent does not make child support payments? If you have a child support order, but the other parent does not make payments, you must go through the court or FSD to enforce the support order. These organizations can withhold the wages of the parent not paying legally ordered child support. The court or FSD may also use property liens or civil contempt. Get Professional Legal Help With Your Child Support Case Kelly, Reed, and Jansen, Attorneys at Law, are ready to assist you with all of your legal needs regarding your child support case. Whether you are a custodial or non-custodial parent – or wish to establish paternity – we can help you with the process. The outcome of your child support case will affect you for years to come, so you must work with an experienced professional. Contact a Kelly, Reed, and Jansen staff member today by filling out a contact form on our website. We have served the KCMO area for decades in family law. Our offices are in Lee’s Summit, but we serve the entire Kansas City, Missouri Metro.
Kelly Reed & Jansen Divorce
29 Aug, 2023
You’ve heard the commercials on the radio, so you know that you shouldn’t depend on advertising to select an attorney. But how do you choose a divorce lawyer in Kansas City? Here are some tips. How to Choose a Divorce Lawyer in KC There are thousands of attorneys in the Kansas City Metro and surrounding communities. So how do you select the best one for your situation? Here’s some expert advice. 1. Which side of the state line do they serve? If you live in certain areas of the Metro, you may hop back and forth across the state line without thinking. However, if you are looking for a divorce lawyer in Kansas City, make sure the firm knows the laws in your home state. You’ll find some KC attorneys that are members of the Missouri and Kansas Bar Associations – and others who only practice in their home state. 2. Select a law firm known for practicing family law. Some people depend on their personal connections to find a lawyer. However, your friend, who spends most of his time litigating personal injury cases, would not be the best person to help you with your divorce. 3. Consider your needs. Are emotions high? Do you have a lot at stake? Do you need an aggressive attorney to combat your spouse’s lawyer? If so, ask for attorney recommendations from others who have been through a similar situation. On the other hand, you may feel that you and your ex are on the same page and wish to have an amicable and straightforward divorce. (Unfortunately, some expect their divorce to be easy, only to find that their spouse is taking out their hurt and frustrations by having an extensive list of demands.) When selecting an attorney, consider YOUR needs – and the needs of your minor children. 4. Don’t select an attorney based on personality. You are going through a highly emotive time, and you may feel like talking about your feelings and frustrations that led up to the divorce. However, it’s important to remember that you are hiring an attorney, not a therapist. You want someone who knows the law and the court system. 5. Consider the costs. Ask how much your divorce will cost. Some divorce attorneys will charge an hourly rate, and others a flat rate. You must have this information before you select an attorney to represent your interests. We know you may be surprised by the high cost of a quality divorce lawyer. However, you’ll face years of financial consequences from this decision. Choose wisely. 6. Research the attorneys in your area. There’s a lot of information available about attorneys online. Once you have a list of names or firms, complete online research to find out more about them. 7. Interview the attorneys. Most divorce lawyers offer a free initial consultation. Use this opportunity to ask questions like “who will be handling my case?” And “how well do you know my spouse’s attorney?” Contact Kelly, Reed & Jansen in Lee’s Summit for Personalized Divorce Services in Kansas City If you have a family law matter in Jackson County or a neighboring Missouri community, schedule a free consultation with Kelly, Reed, & Jansen. We can help you with your contested or uncontested divorce.
31 Jul, 2023
Please understand that a DUI conviction is very serious and requires the assistance of a top-tier defense attorney. However, we encourage you to take a moment and read this advice if you are facing a DWI charge in Missouri.
22 Jun, 2023
We know you plan on having a lot of fun this summer, whether you are going to the lake or traveling farther away from home. However, here are some things to remember to avoid trouble with the law in Missouri. Understand Missouri weed laws. While Missouri Amendment 3 permits marijuana use in private residences, it’s still illegal in parks, public areas, and moving cars. It’s also important to note that only adults aged 21 or older can possess marijuana – up to three ounces at a time. So, if you choose to partake, make sure you understand how to do so legally. Understand laws involving alcohol. Make sure you’re well-acquainted with local laws and ordinances regarding open containers. Alcohol regulations can vary depending on whether you are at a private beach, public property, or a local, state, or federal park. Some public spaces may have a blanket ban on alcohol, while others may only prohibit glass bottles and open containers. And public intoxication is generally illegal everywhere, so know your limits. Understand gun laws. If you’re heading to a state park for a camping trip or hiking through a national forest, know whether you can pack a gun – and which animals can be on your dinner menu. Of course, gun laws vary by state, so pay attention to what side of the state line you are on when carrying a gun. Pay attention to local fireworks laws. Check state and local statutes before you blow up some earth to celebrate America’s independence. Some areas prohibit the use of fireworks, and others limit when you can use them. Still – other places restrict the types of fireworks you can use. Remember – fireworks laws and regulations are often enforced for a reason. You don’t want to be the cause of a forest fire, do you? Know the local laws in each state you’ll drive through on vacation. Some states have a ban on hand-held cell phones while driving. Most states prohibit texting while driving. Did you know that excessive window tint can be a valid reason for a traffic stop in many areas? And, of course, never drive while you’re impaired. That’s illegal in all 50 states. Be aware of public nudity laws. Being hot is no excuse to take off your clothes in public. You can be arrested for public nudity if you aren’t careful where you shed your clothes. Are You In Trouble With the Law? Contact Kelly, Symonds, Reed & Jansen We hope your summer of fun doesn’t cause you trouble with the law. However, if you are facing any legal issues, contact Kelly, Symonds, Reed & Jansen – your personal injury and criminal defense attorneys in Kansas City. We serve the Missouri side of the metro area –Lee’s Summit, MO; Johnson County, MO; Clinton, MO; and Clinton County, MO. Please fill out the contact form on our website for a free case evaluation. Let’s have a safe and fun summer, Kansas City!
DUI Marijuana
16 May, 2023
Here’s what you need to know about Missouri’s DUI (or DWI) laws. According to Missouri law, you cannot operate or be in actual physical control of a motor vehicle with an excessive blood alcohol concentration or under the influence of drugs. If you have a BAC of .08% or above, you should not be driving. However, the threshold is reduced to .04% if you drive a commercial vehicle. And underage DWI laws prohibit motorists under 21 from driving with a BAC of .02% or more. It’s important to note that Missouri law dictates that you can even get a DUI without driving. Missouri DWI/DUI Penalties Missouri DWI/DUI penalties vary based on your circumstances, including how many convictions you have and the severity of the DWI. Here’s what you can expect from a DUI/DWI penalty in Missouri. For the first offense, you may receive up to six months of jail time, fines up to $1,000, a suspended license for 30 days, and a restricted license for 60 days. For the second DUI/DWI offense, you may get up to one year in jail, up to $2,000 in fines, and your driver’s license revoked for one year. (If your previous DUI/DWI was within five years of the current offense, your license may be revoked for five years.) You could face up to four years in jail for a third offense and up to a $10,000 fine. In addition, your license could be revoked for ten years. Implied Consent in Missouri Implied consent laws require all drivers lawfully arrested for a DWI to submit to a blood, breath, urine, or saliva test. If you refuse to test, you could face a one-year revocation of your license – followed by six months of having to use an Ignition Interlock Device. Plea Bargaining in Missouri The DWI/DUI penalties may frighten you. However, Missouri allows plea bargaining in DWI/DUI cases. This means you must consult a skilled attorney to help you with your case. For example, a skilled DWI attorney understands how prosecutors view such cases. Additionally, an attorney knows how to read police reports to understand the full scope of the incident. For example, a DUI lawyer will ask, Was there a valid reason to stop the car? Was there a mistake in the police procedure? Was there a problem with the breathalyzer or testing device? In addition, a skilled lawyer may ask for substance abuse treatment, continuous alcohol monitoring, and random testing – instead of jail time. Kelly, Symonds, Reed & Jansen: Skilled DUI/DWI Attorneys in Missouri For a skilled DUI/DWI attorney in Missouri – serving Lee’s Summit, Independence, and Blue Springs, contact Kelly, Symonds, Reed & Jansen. The defense attorneys at the Law Firm of Kelly, Symonds, Reed & Jansen have decades of combined legal experience and will aggressively defend your case. We will explain the possible (but realistic) legal options so you can make an informed decision regarding your defense. If you need help with your DUI/DWI in Missouri, contact a member of our staff today.
Kelly Symonds Reed & Jansen
27 Apr, 2023
There are two main types of legal cases: criminal and civil. Let's take a look at these two types of cases – and tell you who to turn to if you need legal counsel. Understanding the two types of cases can be tricky – as there is some overlap between criminal and civil cases. However, generally speaking, criminal cases are offenses against the state, even if the harm was done to an individual. On the other hand, the 7th Amendment guarantees you the right to sue someone else for loss or damages. These are typically civil cases. More About Criminal Cases Only the state can bring criminal charges against an individual. A criminal case is usually filed by a district attorney and can be against one or more defendants. The penalty for being found guilty in a criminal case is a fine and/or time in jail. Criminal cases include: Infractions are minor violations. A fine is a typical punishment for an infraction. An example of an infraction is a speeding ticket. Misdemeanors are typically punished by up to one year in jail and/or fines up to $1,000. Misdemeanors may include shoplifting. Felonies are the most serious crimes. A person found guilty of a felony (like murder) can go to state prison for a year or more. Of course, in some states, those convicted of felonies get the death penalty. In criminal cases, a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. In other words, the prosecutor must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, and all the jurors must agree with the verdict. More About Civil Cases In a civil lawsuit, a plaintiff sues a defendant. While the Constitution gives everyone a right to have an attorney if accused of a crime, it's different for civil cases. Therefore, if you choose to sue (or someone brings a suit against you), you must hire a private attorney to oversee your case – unless you decide to represent yourself. Civil cases may include the following: Small claims cases between individuals or companies for $10,000 or less Suing someone for breach of contract Property damage Divorce, child support, child custody, and adoption Landlord/tenant cases Some civil cases are decided by judges, while juries decide others. In most civil cases, the judge or jury has to determine which side wins based on the “preponderance of the evidence.” But, in some cases, the standard for reaching a decision is “clear and convincing evidence.” Seek an Attorney Who Views You As an Individual  When you hire an attorney from Kelly, Symonds, Reed & Jansen to represent your interests in a criminal or civil matter, you can rest easy knowing that we will see you as an individual – instead of a “common legal case.” We understand that you depend on us to handle this difficult moment, so you can get back to your normal life. Kelly, Symonds, Reed & Jansen specializes in Family Law, Criminal Defense, Personal injury, and DWI/DUI Defense cases. While our offices are in Lee’s Summit, we also serve surrounding communities, including Blue Springs and Independence.
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