#Best Elder Law Attorney

[castlewealthgrouplegal]

Estate Planning Mistakes That You Should Avoid At All Costs

A lot of people consider that estate planning is meant for the later years of life. However, this is not true. You should start with it early in your life. Most people believe that estate planning is just meant for the big things, such as leaving your assets for your loved ones or securing the future of your children. However, there are several other things that you need to consider when going for estate plans. Even a small mistake can cost you a lot if you do not connect with the best lawyers in Michigan for this process. Let’s find out some estate planning mistakes that you should avoid.

Considering a will to be enough

If you think that a will is the only way you can plan your estate, then you are wrong. A will is just an important aspect of the estate plan but not the only thing that you need to consider. A will can help complete several tasks such as choosing guardians for any minor children or stating who will get access to your assets after your death. But there are some other things as well.

When you create a will, your loved ones will have to go through probate. It can be a costly process and quite time-consuming as well. A will may not be able to protect you if you face some serious illness. You need to have the right legal documents in place to create an estate plan. This will help your loved ones take care of you even in such emergencies. A will does not provide your loved ones with any instructions. For this, you should rely on other estate planning tools that will help you guide them in managing the assets properly.

Not updating the estate plan regularly

Many people create a will and just put it away thinking that they do not have to do anything with it. But you need to keep updating your estate planning documents by connecting with your Ann Arbor elder law attorney every three to five years. Several laws and assets can change over time, and you should keep your plan updated to avoid any conflicts.

About Castle Wealth Group Legal:

Castle Wealth Group Legal is one of the leading legal firms that you can contact if you are looking for an estate planning attorney Michigan. Their team will efficiently provide you with the most professional advice when you want to go for estate planning with them.

To get estate planning help, visit https://michiganestateplanning.com/

Original Source: https://bit.ly/40afbKU

[shadesofmauve]

It all fits: The asari as conservative capitalists

[Thanks to @swaps55, @comeoniwantacoolname, @shadoedseptmbr, and everyone else who contributed to this wild red-string-connecting ride. Don't know all the tumblr names]

The asari: galactic influencers known for elegance and diplomacy. The only full natural biotics, powerful, graceful, and attractive to everyone they meet. The species at the pinnacle of advanced biotic technology.

And holders of immense wealth, acquired over 1,000-year life spans spent playing capitalist chess with galactic society.

Yes, the asari are the most technologically advanced race in the galaxy, but they're not innovators. They're ahead because protheans masquerading as gods gave them hot civilization tips that equated to a millennia-long head-start. They're ahead of the rest, but they move slowly. Within a few centuries — well within the life-time of most asari living today — they'll lose that technological advantage. From asari board rooms to Thessian political think-tanks, this is seen as a looming disaster.

Thankfully for the asari, long life-spans also mean the opportunity to amass huge amounts of wealth. You don't need to be an innovator if you can hire the best minds in the galaxy and lock them under a brutal non-compete contract. Buy out the competition entirely if you can; if that won't work, steal their secrets. You know how the council prohibited genetic modification and AI research because of 'ethics' and 'galactic safety'? Those laws also just happened to effectively quash scientific study in two areas where the asari were already starting to lag behind.

Ever wonder why the volus,creators of the whole financial system, don't have a seat on the council!? Who would want to keep the people who understand financial systems away from power, if not the people who are successfully gaming that system?

The asari reputation as master negotiators is chalked up to experience, skill, and empathy, but the unspoken threat is their ability to stop any negotiation dead in it's tracks. They are the masters of stalling, stonewalling, and passive blockades. Other species might filibuster. An asari can walk away from the table and wait for you to die.

It may look like galactic civilization is a multi-species effort gracefully guided by wise elder asari. It's actually a bunch of shorter-lived species being held over a barrel by sexy blue Mitch McConnell.

Sure, their kids go out and dance at bars or get involved in mercenary groups. That's fine: other species tend to underestimate you when all they see is your trust-fund kids tearing it up on their decades-long spring break. And it's not that risky. Mamma can always buy junior's way into the best armor (or out of jail).

A vastly-longer life lends itself to even more unethical behavior, though. Y'know that super popular dating site? Did you know if you dig through the front companies it's asari-owned? Did you realize when you submitted your genetic profile to 'help find your perfect match using proprietary technology' you also signed away rights to your own genome? No, of course you didn't — the fine-print is forty-six pages long! Forty-six pages is nothing to an attorney with a thousand-year life span! And they REFUSE to share their matching algorithm. Why?! Because they're BREEDING US. They can choose the traits they want using your own genetic code, and only match you with mates likely to pass them on! It's not a service, it's eugenics via tindr. It doesn't matter if doing that via dating app is wildly inefficient; when you have 1,000 years inefficiency doesn't matter!

WAKE UP!!!!

[nutmeg-mayonnaise]

I love your AU and I want more so I was wondering if you had fanfiction to pair with it? I’d love a link!

Hello @lettis ! Thank you so much! I'm so glad you like the AU! That makes me so happy!

I recently finished the first draft of a novel-length (about 90k words) fanfiction that takes place shortly after "Turnabout Time Traveler" from "Ace Attorney: Spirit of Justice" through to when Edgeworth adopts Gregory Wright. It basically showcases how Maya, Phoenix, and Edgeworth got from their roles and relationships in the games' canon to building a family together.

This AU means a lot to me so I'm putting in a little extra time and effort into edits and potential rewrites. Therefore, I'm not entirely sure when I'll post it--but I promise if you follow this blog, you wouldn't miss it when I do!

Here's a teaser. :) The fanfic is written from Phoenix's perspective, so keep that in mind!

“The Elders… They want me to get married soon,” Maya said over the phone. My eyes widened and I leaned forward.  “Married?” I echoed. “Why?” “As the head of the Fey Clan, it’s my responsibility to… well… continue the Fey bloodline…” she explained. My shoulders slumped. “You remember how mediums inherit their spiritual powers… right?”  “Y-yeah, that only the women can inherit it, right?” I said. The thought of from where they had to inherit it sunk in. My face felt tight. “Yeah, and we inherit it from our mothers,” she added. “Me and Pearly… we’re the only ones left, now.” She paused. “Hmm. It’s funny. It had always been in the back of my mind, but it always seemed like something I wouldn’t have to worry about until I got older.” She paused again. “I guess… I’m older now.” Those words hit me like a punch to the gut. I didn’t know what to say. I could only think of one thing. “I… I’m sorry.” Maya hummed a sigh. “It’s fine, Nick. I mean, I’m up to it—I knew I had to do this ever since Mia left to pursue law.” She made a soft, almost carefree chuckle. “To tell you the truth, I’m glad I opened up to you about this. Now I have another person besides Pearly to complain to!” I laughed nervously.  “Complain away,” I said. “You have my ears.” I shook my head. A part of me didn’t want to hear about Maya’s new-to-me love life, but as her best friend, it was the escape I knew she wanted—maybe even needed. Maya deserved someone who would be a loving husband to her and her children… but something Maya told me a long time ago began to haunt me. The culture in Kurain Village revolves around its women, and that matriarchy doesn't often sit well with men, especially if they are outsiders. This, more often than not, caused unhappy marriages and broken families. Pearls was one of the victims of an unhappy marriage. Her father left her. Pearls’ half-sisters also suffered. Their father dumped one at a temple, and the other… I shook my head. I sucked air through my nose and hoped whoever was listening that the same wouldn’t happen to Maya or her kids. Maya’s kids… That was too weird to even think about.

Thanks for the ask!

[excessdrive]

☆ –– (jodie comer, they/them, non-binary) who is killian meijer anyways? ew. you don’t know about them, we’ll bet you want to. they’re feeling 30 and cooking feels like a perfect night to them. rumor has it they’re stubborn and hedonistic because they care, but they’re also loyal and versatile in the best way. they work to make a little money as a personal trainer. they’ve rented on a place on cornelia street in the form of brownstone 12. call it what you want is the song they could dance to the beat of forevermore.

GENERAL STATISTICS:

NAME:  killian meijer NICKNAMES: n/a AGE: thirty BIG THREE: aries sun, scorpio moon, taurus rising DATE OF BIRTH: march 24, 1993 PLACE OF BIRTH: rotterdam, the netherlands CURRENT RESIDENCE: brownstone 12, cornelia street (nyc) OCCUPATION: lawyer (formerly) self-defense trainer (currently) PRONOUNS: they/them GENDER: non-binary SEXUALITY: homosexual SKELETON: call it what you want (muse b)

APPEARANCE:

FACECLAIM: jodie comer EYE COLOR: hazel HAIR COLOR: dark blonde HEIGHT: 5′ 8 / 1.73 cm TATTOOS: full right sleeve – angel wings (ref) SCARS: several light scars along their arms and one more visible one on their neck due to glass cuts during a fight

RELATIONSHIPS:

PARENTS: lars meijer (father), gwen meijer (mother) SIBLINGS: daan meijer (younger brother) CURRENT PARTNER: tba PAST PARTNERS: ex-fiancée of four years; tba SITUATIONSHIPS: tba

PERSONALITY:

POSITIVE TRAITS: witty, charming, passionate, caring, loyal, flexible, protective. NEGATIVE TRAITS: stubborn, possessive, short-tempered, jealous, perfectionist, self-destructive, self-critical. LOVE LANGUAGE: physical touch, acts of service MBTI: infj

BACKSTORY:

killian meijer was born in a well-respected family of lawyers. the meijers were known primarily for their main craft, therefore from very early age lars and gwen meijers were preparing young killian for their upcoming successful career as an attorney. even before killian started attending school, they were constantly exposed to an extensive library filled with law material. there was no room for questions or doubts regarding their future.

when killian turned five, daan meijer, killian's younger brother, was born. the family decided to move from the netherlands to the states, where lar’s older brother resided, seeking even better professional opportunities for their children. Up until high school, killian lived in boston, but had to move to new york to finish high school and continue with law school afterwards.

during their last year in law school, killian met mila – the love of their life. or so they thought. the two hit it off almost instantly, falling head over heals for each other faster than they could realize. the elder meijer’s, however, upon finding out about mila, did not seem too pleased with killian’s pick for a mate, but did not impose their opinion upon killian too much during that time either.

four years later, the couple had moved in together and were building their own reputation as established lawyers.  kllian had taken up a side job and was saving for their own place they could call home that both of them planned to buy in the following couple of years. not long after, killian proposed and the pair was now planning their upcoming wedding. however, the dream life had eventually come to an end. during one of their usual mornings, killian woke up to find their apartment empty. mila was nowhere to be found. they had not seen her since. well, at least not in person. the following month killian made a devastating discover. thanks to social media, they managed to track mila down, who now was back with her ex-boyfriend, who had just returned from his military training. It was later revealed that killian’s parents paid mila handsomely for her to return to her old life and never to come back. what hurt the most? not only did mila accept that offer, but made no effort, whatsoever, to contact killian again. as if the life they had been building for the past four years did not exist.

that was the last straw for killian. they had cut all ties with their parents ever since finding out about mila. another year passed and they decided to quit their job. with their parents out of the picture and no one else to control them, killian decided to explore their true desires and aspirations.

the older meijer always enjoyed helping people. that was the main reason why they pushed through law school and several years working as a lawyer, falsely believing they were protecting people, when, the law system was just as corrupt as any other. they found themselves defending offenders in court, while the actual victims did not receive proper justice. and so, killian swore to themselves to do all that was in their power to prevent any more of such assaults against women and people from happening ever again. that’s how they ended up receiving their self-defense certification and became a personal trainer, helping anyone and everyone who was interested in learning how to defend themselves.

at the same time, killian seemed to struggle with the fact that they had left their younger brother daan with their parents, who, no doubt, were also forcing him to follow their footsteps. the meijer siblings used to be rather close during childhood but had drifted apart since killian moved to new york for studies. although the two managed to have a call or two per month, that was nowhere close to resembling the proper bond they used to have back in the day, not to mention any healthy bond that any siblings shared.

not being able to properly deal with the guilt of “leaving daan behind” and the grief of losing mila, along with a lot of suppressed emotions since childhood that resulted in anger-issues, killian was persuaded by their best friend to start attending therapy. It proved to be a challenging start to a long journey, but they have been showing up consistently for the past year, which had to be a good sign.

when they are not training others, killian spends their free time outdoors, engaging in various sports, such as hockey from time to time (it used to be their main hobby back in their high school era), volleyball and even skateboarding once in a blue moon. as they got older, killian also found new appreciation for sightseeing and cooking. now they treat themselves with warm meals and never forget to surprise their closest friends with their “weekly delights”.

WANTED CONNECTIONS:

(OPEN) Best friend / ride or die – they met in high school and although the two of them did not seem to have a lot in common, they became inseparable. they were there for each other during all of their ups and downs and killian has to thank them for being there during the devastating end with mila and everything afterwards. they were that one person killian could always rely on, their rock. in return, killian filled that same role for their best friend and more. no matter how tough things became.

Casual friends – people killian met along the way, whether it was school, work, through their hobbies or through shared experiences.

One-night stands / flings – ever since fall-out with mila, killian had at least a few of these here and there, so feel free to throw any possible ideas my way!

Situationships – any connection that had/has the potential to become something more, but either never managed to properly get off the ground, one or both of them were unsure of how to approach it or it is still in its early stages.

Rivals – it’s no secret that killian is a sucker for a good competition. especially when the competition is about something they are passionate about. (open to literally any and all ideas!)

(OPEN) Mentor / parental figure – since killian had cut all ties with their parents, they could use an older parental figure who, when in need, could help ground killian somewhat and guide them on the right path by sharing their personal experiences

(OPEN) Mentee / younger sibling figure – as the odds seem to be against killian spending more time with daan, they are subconsciously looking for someone they could protect and guide through life. the trainer is no stranger to tough experiences, therefore it is easy for them to spot when someone else is going through a hard time and well… they will be there to help them.

this introduction will be continuously updated with new details and/or new connections, so keep an eye out for that! highly recommend to check back in here from time to time!

If anyone made it this far, GREAT JOB! please feel free to share any and all ideas/suggestions you may have regarding killian and your muses! I have no doubt that we will come up with some exceptional stories!

[angelic-writer]

Whumpcember Day 14 - Cornered

Summary: Thatcher Sr. and Meredith Weaver get more than what they bargained for when they take things too far.

CW: Racism, Torture, Whumpers turned Whumpees, drowning, graphic gore, major character death

"What do you want from us?" Katrina growled.

The older man simply smirked. "You know exactly what we want."

"We actually don't know. Why don't you tell us, old man?" Mervin spat.

They weren't supposed to be seeing them. They were on their way home to see their kids when those pigs stopped them. They already know what they're doing, why the town became the way it is. Not even the angels were enough to "purify" them. They know it was just a government ploy to cover up their crimes.

"Well, we want you to do something." Meredith spoke.

"What? Does it include you getting rid of that raisin face of yours?" Kyofu quipped.

Meredith growled. "We want you to check on the angels. We have a feeling they're not doing what they're supposed to be doing."

"Why? They're just kids. Don't you think they're focusing on more important things like school?"

"That's besides the point. The point is crime rate is climbing again and we have reason to believe that the alternates are on the rise again. We just want to make sure they're kept in check."

"Why don't you guys do it yourselves? You're cops. You should be doing something for this town instead of staying in your penthouse." Mervin said.

"Well, unlike you, we are enjoying our retirement, but we need to make sure that the citizens are safe."

"More like use them as your pawns..." Katrina muttered under her breath."

Thatcher Sr. snapped his head at her. "What was that?"

"Nothing."

"Hmm. Anyway, are you in or not?"

"And what if we don't do what you say?" Mervin asked.

He smirked. "Well, let's just say that your kids are gonna be having a little visit. Y'know, a courteous check-in."

They all glared at them, their stares threatening to freeze Hell over. "Touch them and you will die." Dave growled.

"Nonsense, David! We won't do anything to them as long as you follow our instructions. You wouldn't want your precious children to end up like their parents, don't you?"

Dave wanted to lunge at them, but they were pointing their guns at them, their fingers on the trigger as if you say "One wrong move and we'll shoot you." He didn't care. He will gladly sacrifice his life for his kids.

"You don't seem to understand, sir. We treasure our kids more than our lives. You can do whatever you want with us, but no matter how much you pay us, no matter how much you threaten us, we won't let you harm a hair on them!" Kyofu said.

Thatcher Sr. only smirked. "We'll see about that."

---------

Jonah Marshall couldn't sleep that night. He kept thinking back to his mother. How she turned up dead one day while he and Adam were at his house. Mervin tried his best to take care of the two boys, but he would sometimes catch him late at night with a glass of bourbon in his hand. He missed her, he could tell.

The police never found out who killed Kimberly. That didn't make any sense to him. When the wife of a famous attorney gets murdered, it would've been the top priority. It would be in the history books for years to come.

There's something off with this. It's almost like...

His thoughts were interrupted by the window being smashed. Thinking quickly, he ran towards the noise at the speed of light, knocking over whoever just broke in. Upon seeing Thatcher Sr., he scoffed. Trying to ignore the tingling in his hands, he said "Oh look, it's you. Aren't you retired? Shouldn't you two have fucked off in a penthouse somewhere?"

Thatcher Sr. groaned as he sat up. "What were you thinking, slamming into an old man like that? You could've broken my neck!"

"Pfft. With the amount of money you have, you could pay for all those treatments."

"Is this how you speak to your elders, more importantly, a man of the law?"

"What man of the law? You don't even work at the station anymore! You could've fucked off to Hawaii for all I know. Are you and Cruella de Vil so bored that you have to bother people to stay relevant?"

"You better shut up right now."

"Sorry. I'm a little cranky right now considering that you broke into my house! I should call the police on you!"

He smirked. "Go ahead. They're gonna cart you off for assaulting an officer. Besides, who is gonna believe someone who isn't white?"

".......You did not just-"

"Yes. So I suggest you keep your mouth and do what I say." He pointed his gun at Jonah. "Now, what have you and your friends been doing?"

The silver haired boy clenched his teeth. "We've been trying to protect the city, sir."

"Oh really? By working with the alternates and making things worse? Why did you think this was a good idea?"

"I don't have to tell you anything."

He pressed the gun to his head. He was sweating bullets now. "I have a sworn oath to protect my people and I need cooperation in order to do that. Now, answer my questions or I'll blow your head off."

"Heh. You can't kill me. I run at the speed of light. I'll kick your ass before you can even pull the trigger." Though in reality, he couldn't do that. His hands were tingling, his lips were beginning to feel numb and his organs felt like they were burning.

"What's wrong, kid? Not feeling good?"

He simply growled.

"Well, why don't we wait for daddy to show up, huh?"

"Jonah?"

Jonah's eyes widened. The others. Why did they have to show up now?

"Jo, what's going o-" Adam was cut off by a scraggly man pointing a gun at him.

"Don't move. Don't you even think of calling for help."

Jonah tried to run, but when he tried to channel the lightning inside him, pain shot through his head, causing him to fall. He grabbed his head, groaning in pain. The older man turned and smirked. "Well, someone didn't take his medicine."

"Jonah!" Cathy screamed.

"You leave him alone right now!" Cyrus shouted.

"Well, isn't that just cute? You're all trying to protect your friend. Well, your little friend here wasn't doing what he was supposed to be doing. Ever since you joined that... terrorist group, this town has gotten much worse! It's become infested with sin! And instead of doing what's wrong, the angels joined the enemy's side."

"Are you sure about that? When the "terrorist" group is more rational then you, you need to look in the mirror and ask yourself "What am I doing with my life?"" Adam said.

Thatcher Sr. flinched and almost pulled the trigger, but thought better of it. "You've got a lot of nerve talking to a former officer like that. Just like your little friend."

"Well, my dad always taught me to always tell the truth."

The mention of Adam's dad caused the old man to press his lips together tightly. Jude... I should've gotten rid of him along with his wife.

"What? Got nothing to say to that?"

Nothing. Adam was about to speak again when he heard a gun click from behind. Turning around shows Meredith along with some other officers pointing their own weapon at him. "So, it looks like we got some company." She said.

--------

It didn't take long for them to arrive. They gathered them into a warehouse that previously housed Bill and Charlie Flammia. They sat them down in individual chairs and tied them up. For Adam, they used stronger bonds that made it harder for him to get out.

"Alright, let's make things simpler. You either do what we say or we punish you with the full extent of the law." Thatcher Sr. began, walking in a way a prison warden would walk.

Adam scoffed. "Do whatever you want. It's not gonna get you anywhere."

Thatcher Sr. clicked his tongue. "What happened to all of you? You were willing to do your sworn duty to protect this town. You were doing so well. But you joined the alternates and you fell off on your sworn duty. I'm sure Mayor Carlos would not like what you've been doing."

"Why would we care what that quack says? We already know what's going on. Public reputation doesn't matter to us. What matters is getting the truth out." Cyrus said.

"So you'd rather be a whisteblower than do your job?" He sighed. "I know alternate talk when I hear it." He nodded to Meredith.

The older woman began to set up the electroshock machine. "Let's see...." His eyes landed on Adam. "Let's start with you."

Before the blonde could even object, Meredith shoved the device on his head. He struggled against his binds, but the added tightness of the ropes caused it to dig into his wrists. She turned the dial to a low setting. Before he even got the chance to scream, she flipped the switch.

His body jolted as the electricity coursed through him. He spasmed in his chair, his eyes rolling back. Everyone in the room started to scream.

"ADAM!!!" Jonah joined in on the chorus, trying to get himself out, but his body felt like it was being run over by a train. C'mon, move!!! Why isn't it working?!

After a few agonizing minutes, Adam fell limp, though he was still breathing. The shock wasn't enough to kill him.

"Hmph. He didn't even last long." Thatcher Sr. said with a displeased tone. He looked to the others, still crying and screaming. "Aww, what's the matter? Crying for your mommies and daddies? Well, let me tell you something." He walked over to Cathy and smacked her across the face. "No one's gonna save you and your little brat friends!"

The atmosphere in the room changed. It was like someone put the AC on blast. A strange cold.

Jonah started to vibrate. The pain was becoming unbearable, but he didn't care. He was seeing red.

He hurt Cathy. He hurt Cathy. He hurt my sister.

Meredith slipped the device off Adam and placed it on Jonah's shaking head. Thatcher Sr. pulled out his taser and slowly inched it towards the red haired girl. Before it could touch her, a force knocked him back, making him drop his weapon.

Baffled, he looked up. The triplets had gotten out of their bonds, the rope marks clear evidence of their struggle. An aura was emanating from them. "You... You hurt her..." Fred growled.

"S-Stay away from me, you demons!!" Thatcher Sr. screamed.

"You hurt our sister.... You will burn!!"

The older man tried to grab his gun, but he was flung back. Something picked him up and threw him across the room. Meredith tried to shoot them, but something hard hit her in the face. Jonah had gotten out of his bonds, incapacitated Meredith and got the others out. The speed caused the wire to snap, rendering the machine useless. While he stopped to get his bearings, Thatcher Sr. tried to grab at his shoulders to drag him back to the chair, but he felt a shock, making him pull back.

"Ow!! W-What-"

"Freeze!!"

Now what?!

Looking to the entrance, he saw Thatcher, Ruth and the rest of the task force gathered at the front entrance, their guns locked on them. The children had been relocated to where the parents were, although Jonah had already collapsed. Jude and Mervin ran to Adam and Jonah, picking them up their arms. Shaking them didn't yield any results. One of the officers requested an ambulance to get there as fast as possible.

"Well, looks like the cavalry came after all." Thatcher Sr. said.

His grandson stared at him with a mix of shock and disgust. "This..." He gestured to the warehouse that contained various machines. "This is what you've been doing? What happened to Bill and Charlie... You were behind it all, weren't you? You and Ms. Weaver..."

"Well, I suppose I am. But they were getting too nosey so I had to shut them up."

"By torturing them and making them almost vegetables?! Was being a lieutenant not good enough for you?! Is your legacy not good enough for you?! People loved you! I looked up to you! I wanted to be just like you! So why did you think doing this was a good idea? To get back at people you didn't like? You could've done anything instead of... these barbaric methods!!"

"Davis... You see, these children are a stain on the town. They make us look bad with their history, the way they react to things - Nobody really liked them as much as they want to claim they do. They just think they're annoying brats whose parents had to suffer with because abandoning them would reflect poorly on their reputation." He looked to Jonah. "Especially him. He's just the same as them. It seems that growing up with such a rich lawyer hasn't taught him to keep his head down. He should know that being a colored kid is very dangerous yet he keeps on being reckless for these people." He looked back to his grandson, his eyes still burning with a fiery rage. "Not my problem. He's just street trash just like those witches. If he dies, no one will miss him."

Thatcher gritted his teeth. "I see that what happened in the past hasn't caused you to think differently. What about Mervin? He's his dad. He'll sue your ass and he'll definitely win. They'll take away everything you've earned!"

"Why can't you see things my way? Don't you want to see Mandela be the town it once was? Beautiful, kind, caring, full of people that love each other?"

"Yes, I do. Although, it hasn't changed when you were in charge and it sure as hell isn't now." He stepped toward him. "I'll change this town for the better. With the angel's help, we can achieve your dream. Just not with your toxic views. I swear on it."

There was an eerie silence. Then, a smirk.

"Do you really think you can rely on the angels after they betrayed us and joined the alternates? I see you are a traitor too." He started to walk.

"No, I'm not! I want-" He was cut off by a white hot pain suddenly exploding in his abdomen. He looked down to see that a knife had been plunged into his stomach.

"And traitors must pay the price."

Thatcher crumbled to the floor, dropping his gun in the process.

"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!"

Ruth screamed. The building descended into chaos. Thatcher Sr. and Meredith ran as gunfire rang out.

Ruth wanted to run out there, to grab Thatcher and pull him away from the rain of fire, but if she runs out, she'll get shot. She stared at her co-worker, the knife sticking out of his abdomen, blood pooling beneath him. Tears threatened to spill out of her eyes, but she blinked them away. No, I have to stay strong. I need to... get to him somehow.

An aura suddenly surrounded her followed by Dave's voice. "Hurry up and go!!"

She realized that he had put a protective spell on her. Thanking him, she ran towards Thatcher. A few stray bullets hit the shield, bouncing off it. She caught sight of the old bastard and her mother running towards a back entrance. A sense of utter betrayal took over her as she pulled out her gun and shot at them as well. The bullet grazed his shoulder, causing him to growl and shoot at her. Of course, as she was protected by the shield, it didn't do anything. Not saying anything, the both of them took off.

"Follow them! Make sure to call all units! We've got runners!" One of the commanding officers said into the radio.

Ruth finally made her way to Thatcher. She grabbed him by the shoulder and shook him. "Thatcher!! Thatcher, get up!!" She shouted.

No response. He was completely still. His skin had grown pale from the blood loss. Ruth put her fingers to his wrist, checking for a pulse. She could still feel it. It was faint, but it was there. She spoke into the radio. "This is sergeant Ruth Weaver. Officer down. 10-52."

-----

None of them spoke in the waiting room. The hospital was a cacophony of patients, doctors, nurses; All of them blended together. Ruth couldn't focus on the news report playing on the TV, but she caught the words "Got away." "Still on the lookout."

Still on the lookout, my ass. They're probably gonna hide out somewhere until they give up.

Dave put his hand on her shoulder. "Hey, it'll be okay. Thatcher's gonna pull through."

"I hope so..." She looked to the others sitting in the waiting room chairs. All of them had visible concern on their faces. Even Jude was tapping his foot, impatiently waiting for any news on Adam. Despite his neglectful nature, he was still his son at the end of the day.

Ruth's heart hurt seeing them like that. These were their children in those rooms, being examined by doctors, people they don't know. Adam had been knocked out by the electricity and Jonah had overused his speed, so they were the top priority at the moment. She could sense some favoritism at play which irked her.

They deserve so much better than to be kicked around and treated like dirt. Thatcher swore to change Mandela for the better and she will follow in his footsteps.

Adam slowly opened his eyes to see that he was in a hospital room. Weird. How did he get here? Last thing he remembered was being shocked by Meredith... Thatcher Sr. was there...

Cathy... Jonah...

As he tried to get up, he noticed a well suited man sitting in one of the chairs. He looked like a hit man, though his facial features were soft. He gave off the aura of a concerned guardian. He knew that man. He saw him multiple times at the alternate base.

"Ira...?"

He started to sign.

[Are you okay?]

He weakly gave him an OK sign.

He nodded. [What happened?]

[We got kidnapped by Thatcher's grandfather and Ruth's mother. They tried to use electroshock therapy to "convert" us. From what Ruth told us, the police got there, but Thatcher was stabbed. I have no idea how he's doing.]

Ira gave off a grunt Adam knew didn't sound good.

[Do you know where they are now?]

He didn't say anything for a bit. [I don't know. I was unconscious.]

There was a tense silence. Then, [I'm gonna find them.]

[How?]

[I'll find a way.]

--------

Meredith looked out the window for any sign of the cops. No sign of them anywhere. "Okay, I think we're safe." She said as she pulled back the curtain. She looked to Thatcher Sr. who was sitting in an easy chair fiddling with his sling. "Sir, you can't mess around with that. It's gonna mess up the bandages."

"Sorry, it's just- I can't believe she just shot me. Your own daughter! And all for that traitor! Who does she think she is?!"

"Sir... Are you sure about this?"

"What?"

"I know what you're thinking. You're probably gonna find some way to get revenge, but the entire town is looking for us. Running away is not gonna help. I think you should... I dunno..."

Thatcher Sr. stood up. "Meredith, you can't be serious. We haven't gone this far just to throw in the towel now. Besides, aren't you the one telling me I shouldn't give up?"

"I know, but for god's sake, you stabbed your own grandson! Up until now, you kept saying how you were proud of him!"

"That was before I found out he was gonna ask for the angel's help despite them being with the alternates!"

"I know, but you could've done anything else rather than trying to kill him! The whole police squad was watching! How could you think this was a good idea?!"

"Because I want to show them that they're weak! The whole town, hell, the whole world is weak! We live in a fucked up society where people's minds are being poisoned by propaganda being spewed by people lesser than us! What happened to us being at the top? What happened to us showing them that we can do anything? Things were fine until Mayor Carlos won his campaign by making wishy washy promises of equality. Now this town is filled with stupid kids filling their social media with useless hashtags and using present day topics for woke points." He sighed. "These kids have no idea what they're talking about. This whole town is starting to fall for those terrorist's lies! And I'm not gonna let it brainwash anyone else!"

".....This is fucked up. What we're doing is fucked up. Kidnapping those two boys was just the start."

"I know. But we've done worse than that, Meredith. Don't try to have the moral high ground when you're just as fucked up as me." He looked at the clock. It was past eleven. "You should get some rest. We've got to move tomorrow."

"Alright. Try not to move your arm too much."

"I won't. Thanks nurse."

Meredith gave off a half smirk before she walked upstairs. Thatcher Sr. sighed before looking at the blank TV. Dad... If you were here, what would you say to me?

Tell me... Tell me what I should do.

He just about closed his eyes when he heard a shatter from the kitchen. Meredith was downstairs in seconds. "What was that?!"

"I-I don't know. I-"

"Shh." She grabbed her gun. "Stay here. The car's out front. Get ready to run if you see anything." With a deep breath, she stepped into the kitchen.

The old man's heart was hammering in his chest. Were the police already here?! No, they would have heard sirens. They would have came through the door, not the window. Why would an officer come through the window?

His shoulder ached and he gripped it tightly. What was he doing just standing around? He should be in there helping her! Why did he have to get shot by her daughter?! Why did-

A loud scream was heard followed by a thump. "Meredith?!" He ran into the kitchen, grabbing his own weapon. He turned the corner when he saw a tall man dressed in a dark suit on top of Meredith. He had his hands wrapped around her throat. She was struggling against him, trying to get him off. Thatcher Sr. didn't think twice. He fired his gun, hitting him right in the head, sending him flying.

Meredith gasped and coughed, her throat finally relieved of the pressure. "Are you okay?!" He shouted.

She wheezed, trying to get her vocal cords to work. "W-We need to get out of here now!" She wheezed.

He nodded and helped her up. Leaning her on his shoulder, they started to limp to the front door. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw the figure slowly get up. They hastened their speed to the front door. He tried to turn the knob, but it wouldn't budge. He tried to look for the key, but it was nowhere to be found. But the key was near the front door for emergencies like this, right? Where is that key?

"Hurry up! He's gonna hurt us!"

"I can't find the key! I can't find the key!"

"Are you shitting me?! O-Okay, we can sneak out the back door! If we can-"

She was cut off by someone hitting her in the back of the head. She fell to the ground, sending the older man down with her. Thatcher Sr. could see the man, now having a bullet hole in his head, but still clearly standing. He was holding a meat tenderizer which was stained with blood. He grabbed her by the hair and started to pull her dazed, but still conscious body, back to the kitchen. He started to crawl towards the man, his shoulder throbbing in pain as the movements threatened to tear his wound open.

As he crawled, he heard the sink turn on. What was he gonna do to her?

He made it to the kitchen where Ira was standing over her again. He had Meredith's hand on the counter, gripping her wrist with one hand and holding the meat tenderizer with the other. She gazed up at him, trying to keep her eyes open. Despite that, she was shaking. "Please... Please don't..." The words tumbled out of her lips, trying to find their way through the fog.

The man just stared at her with a blank expression, his face still dripping with blood. Upon closer inspection, Meredith could see a long horizontal cut along his neck, clearly scarred over. He blinked, raised the hammer high above his head - His lips moved.

"Retribution."

He slammed the hammer down on her fingers, causing her to scream.

"MEREDITH!!" Thatcher Sr. screamed. He lunged up and grabbed the man, trying to pull him off, but he pushed him back, sending him backwards. His head struck the table, causing him to become dazed. Stars danced in his vision as he lay on the floor. He continued his work, bashing her fingers with the hammer, hearing her blood-curdling screams as her bones were crushed and her tendons were torn apart by the spikes. It reminded Ira of the time where he would pound the meat for steaks. He could really go for steaks right now.

Her fingers had been rendered into bloody, bruised messes, her chipped nail polish now ruined by splotches of purple. The joints were bent at wrong angles, their attempts at movement only proving to be painful. Meredith was rendered into a blubbering mess, her eyes red from crying and her voice hoarse from crying.

The sink had been filled up with water. It was time for one of his favorite murder methods. Grabbing her by the hair, he shoved her head into the water. Meredith thrashed around, muffled screams coming from her as bubbles burbled up to the surface. Thatcher Sr. tried to move, but his limbs wouldn't move. It was like he was detached from his body, only watching through the lens of a security camera. The thrashing only got more violent as she slapped her good hand around, trying to pull herself up only for the man to pull her up, not giving her a moment to breathe before shoving her head back in.

Drowning is one of Ira's favorite methods of killing. It was bloodless and doesn't leave any traces of DNA. If the water was drained before the police found them, they could assume they died of natural causes. The perfect murder. Of course, he wondered, why did he pulverize Meredith's hand when he was going to drown her in the end? He already knew the answer. She was an accomplice to this man's horrible crimes. She gets to suffer before he ends it all.

He's saving the real fun for the real perpetrator.

After what felt like an eternity, Meredith fell limp. No more bubbles rose beside her head, her body giving off twitches as a last feeble attempt at survival.

"M-M-M..." His lips were cold. He couldn't find the words. His partner... She was...

Ira turned to him with his lifeless eyes, pulled Meredith's head out of the tub and dropped her to the floor. Thatcher Sr. crawled towards her, his entire body shaking. Her eyes were glazed over, her lips had turned grey and there was no sign of her breathing.

Fuck... No...

With one hand, he tried desperately to resuscitate her, but the pain in his head made it hard for him to think. How are you supposed to do this? Am I doing this right? I don't know. I don't know what I'm doing wrong.

With each pump, his strength withered away bit by bit. It wasn't enough strength to compress her heart. He was only slightly shaking her. If he wasn't dazed, he would've been at his A game, but his head felt like it was going to explode. The back of his neck felt warm and slick.

After minutes upon minutes of poorly done CPR, Thatcher Sr. saw that her skin had turned grey. Her eyes continued to stare into space, never to be full of life again.

All he could do was stare. Stare at what this monster has done. He craned his head to the man. He was tilting his head back as if he was... curious? Amused? By the situation. His eyes widened, the realization hitting him like a bag of bricks.

I'm going to die. I'm going to get killed.

Struggling to get on his feet, he stumbled out of the kitchen, up the stairs and to the bedroom. He might be able to find a window to climb out of and escape. Except why isn't he crawling to the window? Why is he hiding in the closet?

His vision was swimming. He couldn't keep his eyes open. He was trapped. He was trapped in the house alone with a psychopath on the hunt to kill.

His hand groped empty space, trying to grasp some sort of weapon. He was starting to fall in and out of consciousness. He closed his eyes for a moment... only to be thrown out of the closet and onto the floor.

Ira was standing above him, butcher's knife in hand. Thatcher Sr., the once highly renowned and fearless sheriff of Mandela county, started to shake. His black eyes stared into his soul, rendering him paralyzed. He examined the knife as if he had never seen it before. He took the old man's hand and placed it firmly on the floor. He inched the blade closer, the sharp edge resting on the joint of his index finger.

"For Lynn." He let out a raspy whisper.

He began to saw the tip. Thatcher Sr. screamed. Blood gushed out onto the oakwood floor as he continued his precise sawing movements. He pressed harder, separating bone and tendon from the rest. Each part of the finger he removed was every sin Thatcher Sr. had ever committed in his time at the station. Soon, there was nothing on his hands to remove. Ira could try toes, but toes are no fun.

"Please... Please stop this... I-I'm sorry..."

He continued to stare at him blankly, his expression never changing even as he was covered in blood. He rested the knife against the old man's neck. He slowly cut into it, separating skin and fat. Blood dripped down his shirt. He gritted his teeth and closed his eyes, bracing himself for the end. Ira lifted the knife away, leaving him confused. He looked up only for Ira to plunge it into his neck, cutting deep into his windpipe. He gurgled, more blood bubbled out of his lips as he gurgled. Twisting the knife deeper, the waterfall of blood flowing out as he slowly lost his strength, he whispered one last thing.

"For me."

-------

When the police arrived at the decrepit house, they found the bodies of Meredith Weaver and Thatcher Davis Sr. Meredith's death was determined to be by drowning. Her right hand had been crushed before she was drowned.

Thatcher Sr. was found upstairs in the bedroom. He had a wound on the back of his head, rendering him dizzy and confused. His fingers had been severed, joints and all before he had a knife plunged into his neck.

When the angels heard the news, they automatically turned to Ira. However, he just smiled and continued to make the steaks.

[nvghtsignals]

✰ nathaniel "nate" dalton — justice

the basics

full name  :  nathaniel “nate” dalton faceclaim  :  charles michael davis skeleton  :  justice occupation  :  politician and criminal justice attorney gender  :  cis male ( he/him ) sexuality  :  bisexual & biromantic birthday  :  feb 22nd  age  :  thirty-seven

the details

tattoos  :  zero languages  :  english , spanish alcohol use  :  often   cigarettes  :  never   drug use  :  never favorite color  :  emerald green

personality

natal chart  :  pisces sun , capricorn moon , sagittarius rising  moral alignment  :  lawful neutral mbti  :  entj  likes  :  espresso , late nights , exploring the city at nighttime , philosophy , meeting new people , proving a point / spirited debate , old classic films , horseback riding , hiking , camping , reading , winter most likely to …  :  become president 

biography

nathaniel grew up in a very modest home where he and his brother were raised by their single father .  though they did not have much in terms of materialist items , nate’s father worked hard to provide essentials for them .  as a child , he didn’t understand the exhaustion wearing down his dad’s frame each night ; the man was prideful and proud and didn’t want his sons to be concerned for their next meal or feel cheated in life from not having a mother in the picture .  the young boys spent their days mostly outside , imagining grandiose fictitious lives and playing in fields , woods , sneaking onto colorado farms to see with animals , and swimming in the local lake .  it wasn’t until nate was a little bit older and his elder brother fell into a rougher crowd that his worldview began to shift . 

nate’s brother was more than him — more rebellious , more impulsive , more impatient , more loud .  their relationship began to deteriorate , what once resembled a best friendship became a struggle at home and a minefield in town , as nate was known as the kid brother .  his brother collected enemies as he continued through high school and it made their family a target .  one fateful night , they suffered a home invasion and what little of value his father owned and had saved was ripped from them violently .  the thief was never caught or prosecuted .  it was then that nate realized how easily people could break , how starkly different right and wrong were , and that every action by one person held potential to cause damage to another . 

by the time he got to college , nate knew he wanted to study philosophy and law .  he has very strong morals that to him are black and white .  even though he does not always abide by his values or admit to his faults , he know when he’s making inherently bad choices .  after school he became a criminal justice attorney and fought hard on behalf of his clients he truly believed were innocent .  any professional loss his clients suffered sent him reeling in his persona life ; nate truly is a workaholic and his life revolves around his career . 

after gaining notoriety for a high profile case where he won acquittal for a man falsely accused of murder , nate pivoted into politics .  not only is he sharp witted and intelligent , but he can charm a smile onto any stranger .  he now serves as a prominent state attorney and is rumored to be considering a for governor or congress .  nate can be seen on local and national tv news media fairly often . 

generally , nate is impatient and blunt but only because he truly wants people to be their best .  he sees everyone’s potential and gets pissed off when they aren’t trying to achieve it .  nate can come across like an asshole sometimes , but he’s a male politician so he can get away with it - and even be praised for it at times .  man’s got an ego ; let’s be honest .  despite his pubic persona , there is a huge part of nate that is sensitive and genuinely concerned for humanity and the big picture .  he mostly keeps his worries to himself and channels his emotions to fight for what he believes is right .  even if some people question it or don’t see it , he cares deep down . 

olive + angelwoods … 

at college orientation , nate met a girl he liked and started dating her exclusively pretty quickly because he was always a traditional guy who preferred meaningful relationships over hookups or flings .  however , about a year later his girlfriend was away studying abroad and he met olive at a party . olive was stunning , witty , full of life , and nate was immediately in awe of her .  

they became quick friends and over time he showed her his softer side , confiding in olive ways in which he hadn’t with his actual girlfriend .  he was a young guy maturing into adulthood and growing into his actual self , with olive at his side as a “friend” .  at a constant war with his own morals and loyalty to the girlfriend he thought he would marry , nate’s willpower wained and he eventually started hooking up with olive and having an affair .  it was a total secret .  no one knew and everyone thought nate was still madly in love with his girlfriend .  

the connection he had with olive was so complex he barely understood it or what he felt towards her , though he constantly lied to himself and justified it in such backwards ways , believing it was simply physical and nothing more .  he was young , naive , and trying to maintain an illusion of an image he’d built of up himself in both his head and to everyone else .  

if people knew about nate and olive’s affair , he would have seemed like the biggest hypocrite with his judgmental attitude towards others .  nate was the charming , well-known perennial student government guy always fighting for some justice and cause .  he knew that what he was doing was wrong and he hated himself for it , but he found himself going back to olive again and again until her death .  no one knew his secret feelings towards olive and he buried them with her in her grave .  it was terrifying that anyone could ever find out , and he knew it would ruin his entire reputation and , truthfully , his sense of self worth .  

olive’s death made him inconsolable in private .  always doing his best to present a confident front in public , nate never told a soul that he had strong feelings for olive or the way that her death destroyed him .  he mourned in silence , and did his best to console the general student body in his role as student govt president , assuring everyone that the murderer would be brought to justice and planning memorials + fundraisers for olive around town .  olive’s death was a wakeup call to him that his relationship was completely fucked up , and he immediately became distant with his girlfriend and broke up with her within a week or two with little explanation .  the depression that ensued from her death was all consuming for a few months , but everyone who caught glimpses of it assumed it was because of his breakup with his girlfriend . 

[signs-of-the-moon]

Can you explain all of the roles in the clan? Like what does the Code Keeper or the Den Mother do? I can't find them in the guides

Of course I can explain!! I actually have this information published in a book titled Guide To The Land's Star, under the Jobs section. But for tumblr's sake I'll copy-paste that information here

Code Keeper- The cat version of a district attorney. They are responsible for keeping law and order within their clan, and work closely with the deputy in upholding justice. They also help the deputy prepare to become the next leader, teaching them how to conduct ceremonies and about naming warriors. There is only ever one official Code Keeper per clan; occasionally with an apprentice waiting to take their place, or the former Code Keeper taking up a different rank (most often an elder)

Den Mother- A gender neutral role. The so-called "leader" of the queens. They are the head of the nursery, taking care of all residents within the den and acting as their voice. They are the most trusted when it comes to giving advice, and are looked to as the clan's main therapist. They will guard the nursery in times of danger, assistant the medicine cats with delivering kits, and will adopt orphaned and abandoned kits as their own. They help upkeep the Queen's Code, and are solely responsible for teaching it to new queens. This rank is highly respected. Harming or killing a Den Mother is considered a highly punishable offense, unless they have provoked a fight without cause. (The Den Mother role is a bit similar to what cats like Daisy or Ferncloud did in canon Warriors)

Queen- General term for a cat who's expecting/has kits in the nursery, or acts as a babysitter/second parent to kits. All permanent queens have a responsibility to check on the well-being of their clanmates, and to act as therapists for those who need it. They will look to the Den Mother for guidance more often than they will the clan's leader. Queens usually form tight knit bonds with one another, caring for each other like littermates.

Hunter- Cats who are gifted in the art of hunting. They most often go out on patrols to bring home prey, working alongside Listeners. Sometimes they hunt solo. They are usually excellent trackers and have keen senses of smell and sight. They also tend to be pretty patient individuals.

Fighter- Fierce cats who participate in battles/raids, or wherever they are needed. These cats are very strong and are usually good at strategizing. There is a stereotype that those who choose this job are stubborn, thick skinned, and have a high pain tolerance (although, of course, this is not always the case)

Spy- Warriors who find out informantion about the other clans or about the surrounding area that a patrol might not be able to detect without help. They also assist the Code Keeper during investigations. Most who choose to be spies are highly curious individuals with a knack for problem solving. Many also enjoy finding out gossip, which is what drives them to this profession. Spies are often very sneaky and inquisitive cats who are good at remembering the smallest of details

Guard- Usually big, tough cats who watch over the camp/medicine den/nursery. They protect the clan by keeping watch throughout the day and night, especially during times of turmoil. Guards will also escort cats who are traveling to speak with other clans, providing protection. Guards are often the largest cats within a clan, or the best at defense

Den Keeper- Cats who keep the clan tidy. They check and repair dens when needed, reinforcing walls and adding protective elements to camp boundaries. They are also responsible for decorating during holidays and special events, such as unions. Cats who choose this job are said to have a keen eye for design, be creative, and are good at figuring out proportions

Collector- This is a job for cats who like to fetch items for other cats (herbs for busy medicine cats, water, things to play with for kits, etc). They also act as messangers between clans. Though this job may seem like one for the lazy, it is still considered vital in a clan system

Watcher- A job given to cats with exceptionally good eyesight, who act as visual guides on patrols. They are also trusted to work with Guards, especially in times of war.

Listener- Cats with amazingly sharp hearing who act as auditory guides. Those who choose this job are mostly assigned to hunting patrols, but will also be partnered up with Spies during investigations (fun fact: most are often spies themselves!)

[martinomccabe]

Jacksonville Nursing Home Abuse Attorneys: Protecting the Rights of the Vulnerable

Nursing home abuse is a grave issue that affects many elderly individuals who rely on these facilities for care and support. In Jacksonville, nursing home abuse attorneys play a crucial role in advocating for the rights of residents and ensuring that those responsible for abuse are held accountable. This article provides an in-depth look at the role of Jacksonville nursing home abuse attorneys, how to choose the right attorney, and what to expect throughout the legal process.

Understanding Nursing Home Abuse

Nursing home abuse encompasses various forms of mistreatment that occur in long-term care facilities. These abuses can be physical, emotional, financial, or neglectful, leading to severe harm to residents. Common types of nursing home abuse include:

1. Physical Abuse

Physical abuse involves the use of force that results in bodily harm, such as hitting, slapping, or restraining residents without justification.

2. Emotional Abuse

Emotional abuse includes verbal insults, threats, and humiliation that can cause psychological trauma and emotional distress.

3. Neglect

Neglect occurs when the facility fails to provide essential care, such as adequate food, hygiene, or medical attention, leading to deteriorating health conditions.

4. Financial Exploitation

Financial exploitation involves the misuse of a resident’s finances, including theft or fraudulent activities that deplete their assets.

The Role of Nursing Home Abuse Attorneys

Jacksonville nursing home abuse attorneys specialize in representing victims of abuse and their families. Their primary role is to advocate for the rights of elderly individuals and seek justice on their behalf. Here’s what a nursing home abuse attorney can do for you:

1. Case Evaluation and Legal Advice

An attorney will begin by evaluating the details of your case, including the nature of the abuse, the extent of harm, and evidence available. They provide legal advice on the best course of action and outline the potential legal strategies for pursuing compensation and holding perpetrators accountable.

2. Investigation and Evidence Gathering

To build a strong case, the attorney will conduct a thorough investigation of the abuse. This involves gathering evidence such as medical records, eyewitness accounts, and facility documents. They may also work with experts to validate the abuse and support your claim.

3. Negotiation and Settlement

The attorney will negotiate with the nursing home’s insurance company to secure a fair settlement for the abuse suffered. This includes seeking compensation for medical expenses, emotional distress, and other damages related to the abuse.

4. Representation in Court

If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, the attorney will represent you in court. They will prepare your case for trial, present evidence, and argue on your behalf to seek justice and compensation.

5. Support and Advocacy

Beyond legal representation, nursing home abuse attorneys provide support and advocacy for victims and their families. They help navigate the complexities of the legal system and ensure that the rights and dignity of the abused are upheld.

Choosing the Right Nursing Home Abuse Attorney in Jacksonville

Selecting the right attorney is crucial for effectively addressing nursing home abuse. Here are key factors to consider:

1. Experience and Specialization

Choose an attorney with significant experience in handling nursing home abuse cases. Their specialization in elder law and personal injury ensures they are well-versed in the complexities of such cases and can effectively advocate for victims.

2. Reputation and Client Reviews

Research the attorney’s reputation by reading client reviews and testimonials. Positive feedback from previous clients can provide insights into their professionalism, effectiveness, and client satisfaction. Look for reviews on legal directories and review platforms.

3. Track Record of Success

Review the attorney’s track record of success in nursing home abuse cases. A history of favorable outcomes and successful settlements indicates their ability to achieve positive results and secure justice for their clients.

4. Initial Consultation

Most nursing home abuse attorneys offer free initial consultations. Use this opportunity to meet with potential attorneys, discuss your case, and evaluate their approach. Pay attention to their communication skills, responsiveness, and empathy toward your situation.

5. Fee Structure

Understand the attorney’s fee structure before hiring them. Many nursing home abuse attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. Clarify the percentage of the settlement or verdict they will take and any additional costs or expenses.

What to Expect During the Legal Process

The legal process for nursing home abuse cases involves several stages. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Case Investigation

Your attorney will start by investigating the abuse and gathering evidence. This includes obtaining medical records, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing facility documents.

2. Filing a Claim

The attorney will file a claim with the nursing home’s insurance company, detailing the damages you are seeking and the basis for your claim. The insurance company will review the claim and may make an initial settlement offer.

3. Negotiation

Your attorney will negotiate with the insurance company to secure a fair settlement. This process may involve counteroffers and discussions to reach an agreement that covers your damages.

4. Litigation

If negotiations do not result in a satisfactory settlement, your attorney may file a lawsuit and take your case to court. This involves preparing legal documents, presenting evidence, and arguing your case before a judge or jury.

5. Resolution and Compensation

Once the case is resolved, either through settlement or court judgment, you will receive compensation for the abuse suffered. Your attorney will ensure that the settlement or judgment is fair and that you receive the full amount awarded.

Conclusion

Hiring a Jacksonville nursing home abuse attorney is essential for addressing instances of abuse and seeking justice for vulnerable individuals. By understanding their role, carefully selecting the right attorney, and knowing what to expect during the legal process, you can ensure that the rights and well-being of the abused are protected.

[naturecoaster]

Coping with Dementia Care Education: What to Do after a Dementia Diagnosis

All too often I hear from people after they have received a diagnosis of dementia, and normally it is the same question, “What do I do now”? You may experience a variety of emotions that will be overwhelming. You may feel numbness, anger, grief and loss, helplessness, loneliness, and denial, which could be the lack of ability to accept. There may have been a suspicion of something changing, but now you have heard the diagnosis.  Surveys have shown that among most American seniors, a diagnosis of dementia is feared more than any other medical condition. For this reason alone, it is important that we are prepared to use our time wisely to make our loved one with dementia as secure and comfortable as possible, which will also benefit you as well. Here are some of the things we should do following the diagnosis: - Are you comfortable with the diagnosis? Have they done everything they can to make sure dementia is what you are dealing with? Has this included specific blood work and an MRI? - The Mini-Mental test alone is not sufficient for a diagnosis. You may follow up with a memory disorder clinic in your area or a qualified medical research firm for a thorough evaluation.  - You may want to consider looking into a clinical trial or study.  - Learn about the disease. Become more educated and aware of the changes that you may see. Learn how to meet the needs of your loved one in this journey of dementia.  - Make sure your legal paperwork is in order, sooner rather than later. Get to an attorney – preferably certified in Elder Law – to get the right answers for you.  - Find a care partner support group. A good support group will be one of your most important tools, many are even online.  - You may also consider a grief support group to deal with the loss that you will experience.  - Consider some type of identification for your person in the event they may wander and become lost. Your local Sheriff’s Office or Police Department may have programs, including high-tech tracking devices.  - Secure your home environment to eliminate hazards and reduce the likelihood of wandering. This may mean purchasing cameras, locks and alarms. There are many products at a reasonable cost and easy to install.  - Maintain a low-stimulation environment; low noise, favorite music, no constant television – especially not TV news!  - Stay social and active as long as possible. Be open with your support systems (church, clubs, family) about your situation. Do not be afraid to talk about dementia with your friends and family.  - Learn when it may be time to seek outside support, such as adult dementia day care programs, socializing events such as memory cafes, in-home professional care, or long-term outside memory care.  - Establish and keep a routine for yourself and your loved one with dementia.  - Seek time for yourself, with people that are supportive and will listen.  - Do NOT turn to the so-called “brain boosters” that promise miraculous results. They don’t and they are a waste of money and emotional capital!  - You may want to keep a journal; this can become an important tool for you and your medical team.  - Depending on where your loved one is in the journey, you may want to consider their safety, such as driving, chemicals, medications, guns and weapons, financial responsibilities.  Whether or not you retain legal support, find out what benefits are available to you from Medicare, Medicaid, Insurance, or veterans’ services. If you have a long-term care insurance policy, find out what you need to do to activate it and when.  Immediately following a diagnosis will be your best time to get things in order for yourself and your loved one. Later, just managing the disease may consume any time you still have. So don’t delay. And remember that I am talking about YOU when I say, “We all deserve the best!”  About Debbie Selsavage, CDP Debbie Selsavage is a Certified Trainer and Consultant in the Positive Approach to Care and a Certified Dementia Practitioner.  She is a passionate provider of dementia education to individuals, groups, and organizations of all sizes. Her book, The ABC of Dementia: A Care Partner Guide is available on Amazon. Debbie authors this monthly column to assist caregivers in coping with Dementia. Her company, Coping with Dementia LLC is dedicated to making life better for individuals living with dementia.  Contact Debbie at deb@coping.today. Read the full article

[odenskylaw]

Experienced Elder Law Attorney Houston

When you require the best elder law attorney Houston has to offer, contact Odensky Law. Our approach is to offer careful listening and professional advice on matters that are challenging for seniors, their families, or caretakers, such as planning for nursing home care, protecting assets, and identifying signs of elder abuse.

[ironbirdbouquet]

Embracing a New Chapter: Key Considerations for Seniors Downsizing Their Home

The decision for seniors to downsize into a new home involves careful consideration of their current living situation. This process is not just about moving to a smaller space but also about making strategic decisions that affect financial stability, personal comfort, and future plans. This article, courtesy of Wicked Clean, delves into critical aspects that seniors should consider when planning to transition from their existing home to a new, more manageable living arrangement.

Keeping Your Home in the Family

 

Opting to sell the family home to a known individual can maintain its sentimental value within the family circle. This approach requires clear communication and fair practices, such as obtaining an independent valuation to establish a fair selling price. Legal guidance is essential to navigate the specifics of such a sale, ensuring it proceeds smoothly without jeopardizing relationships. This method can secure the home’s legacy while providing both the seller and buyer with a sense of continuity and satisfaction.

 

Navigating Tax Considerations

 

The financial implications of downsizing, particularly regarding taxes, can offer opportunities for savings. Seniors should explore potential tax exemptions and deductions for which they may qualify, such as those related to selling a primary residence or moving expenses. Consulting with a tax professional who understands the nuances of real estate and elder law can illuminate these opportunities, allowing for a more beneficial financial outcome from the sale. This strategic planning can result in significant savings, thereby enhancing the financial resources available for retirement and beyond.

 

Looking to Skilled Care

 

For seniors contemplating a move due to health or mobility challenges, investigating skilled nursing facilities becomes a critical step. Exploring your options online first can unveil a wealth of information regarding the amenities, services, and resident feedback for various establishments. This digital exploration allows for a thorough understanding of what each community offers, ensuring that seniors can choose a place that best suits their needs and preferences. Making an informed decision helps in securing a future where care and comfort are prioritized.

 

Estate Planning Considerations

 

Downsizing presents a timely opportunity to revisit and possibly revise one’s estate plan. This process might involve updating legal documents to reflect new living arrangements or the distribution of assets. It's a chance to plan for the dispersal of personal belongings, assigning sentimental and valuable items to family members or charities. Engaging an estate planning attorney can ensure these plans are not only legally sound but also aligned with personal wishes, providing peace of mind that one’s legacy will be honored as intended.

 

Organizing and Decluttering

 

The act of downsizing necessitates a thorough decluttering and organization of belongings, a task that can be streamlined with the help of a professional organizer. Such experts can guide the sorting process, helping to decide what to keep, sell, donate, or discard. Their input can be invaluable in planning the layout of the new home, ensuring it is both functional and comfortable. This process can be transformative, not just in terms of physical space, but also in letting go of unnecessary items and embracing a simplified lifestyle.

Read more.

[jurnaltalking]

Protecting Your Future with an Elder Law Attorney in Wall and Toms River

As we age, navigating the complexities of legal and financial matters becomes increasingly important. An elder law attorney specializes in addressing the unique challenges faced by seniors, ensuring that their rights are protected and their future is secure. Whether you are seeking an elder law attorney in Wall or an elder law attorney in Toms River, having expert legal guidance can make a significant difference in planning for your later years.

Why You Need an Elder Law Attorney in Wall

For residents of Wall, New Jersey, finding the right elder law attorney in Wall is crucial for effective estate planning, asset protection, and long-term care planning. An elder law attorney can assist with drafting wills, setting up trusts, and navigating the complexities of Medicaid and other government benefits. By working with a local attorney, you gain access to someone who understands the specific laws and regulations in Wall, ensuring that your legal documents are tailored to meet your needs and protect your interests.

The Benefits of an Elder Law Attorney in Toms River

If you live in Toms River, seeking an elder law attorney in Toms River is equally important. As you plan for your future, an elder law attorney can help you address critical issues such as healthcare directives, powers of attorney, and guardianship arrangements. They can also provide guidance on managing your assets and protecting your estate from potential risks, such as long-term care costs. By choosing a knowledgeable elder law attorney in Toms River, you can be confident that your legal and financial matters are in capable hands.

How an Elder Law Attorney Can Protect Your Interests

An elder law attorney serves as a valuable advocate for seniors, helping them navigate the legal system and make informed decisions about their future. Whether you are concerned about protecting your assets, ensuring your wishes are honored, or securing the best possible care for yourself or a loved one, an elder law attorney can provide the expertise and support you need. For residents of Wall and Toms River, having a trusted elder law attorney in Wall or elder law attorney in Toms River can offer peace of mind and confidence in your long-term planning.

Conclusion: Plan for the Future with Expert Legal Guidance

In conclusion, working with an elder law attorney in Wall or an elder law attorney in Toms River is essential for anyone looking to protect their assets, secure their future, and navigate the complexities of aging. By seeking the counsel of a skilled elder law attorney, you can ensure that your legal needs are met and that you have a solid plan in place for whatever the future may hold. Don’t wait until it’s too late—start planning today with the help of a trusted elder law attorney.

[castlewealthgrouplegal]

Estate Planning For The Sandwich Generation

Do you know what the sandwich generation is? It is a term used for adults raising their children and caring for their parents. So, you are in the middle, sandwiched between the two generations. By taking care of two generations and fulfilling your needs, you may incur a lot of expenses. But you must also work with an estate planning attorney Michigan to take care of your future. This will help you continue caring for others even when you are not around. So, let’s talk about a few tips for this generation.

Schedule a meeting regarding your parents

Request your parents, their siblings, and your siblings to join you for a conversation about the present situation and the future. In this meeting, you can discuss various issues such as who will care for your parents, who will contribute financially, etc. Who will handle the finances of your parents in unforeseen circumstances? Your parents will have to share all their financial and healthcare information so that your family can make the best decisions. This will help you create the perfect long-term financial plan. You can also request an estate planning attorney Ann Arbor to help you with this process.

Schedule another meeting for your children and parents

Are you taking care of your parents physically or financially? If so, you should share this with your children. Your parents should also be present during this conversation. This will help your children understand various aspects and prepare them for changes.

Take care of privacy

You may have family members of various generations living together at your home. While everyone may not have a private room, you should ensure that everyone has privacy. For instance, you may ask your children to let the grandparents have the living room after lunch. If your children need long showers, you should inform everyone. This will help everyone live peacefully with privacy and freedom.

Work on your financial plan with an estate planning attorney. The attorney can help make changes to the plan according to your changing needs. Work on a retirement fund along with taking care of your parents and children.

About Castle Wealth Group Legal:

Castle Wealth Group Legal is one of the leading legal firms that can provide you with Ann Arbor elder law solutions. This legal firm has worked with various individuals on their estate plans, retirement plans, etc. So, this firm can guide you according to your specific goals.

To get more details about estate planning, visit https://michiganestateplanning.com/

Original Source: https://bit.ly/4fD018c

[digitalsanshta]

In the ever-evolving world of finance, reverse mortgages have emerged as a significant tool for senior citizens seeking to enhance their retirement lifestyle. For financial professionals, the ability to generate high-quality reverse mortgage leads is crucial for building a successful business. This blog will explore the importance of reverse mortgage leads, how they can benefit your business, and effective strategies for generating these leads. Welcome to The Live Lead, where we help you navigate the complex landscape of reverse mortgage leads.

Understanding Reverse Mortgages

A reverse mortgage is a financial product that allows seniors, typically aged 62 and older, to convert a portion of their home equity into cash. Unlike traditional mortgages, reverse mortgages do not require monthly payments. Instead, the loan is repaid when the borrower sells the home, moves out, or passes away. This financial tool is designed to provide seniors with additional funds to cover living expenses, medical bills, or other needs.

Why Reverse Mortgage Leads Are Crucial

For financial advisors, mortgage brokers, and loan officers, reverse mortgage leads are vital. High-quality leads can translate into new business opportunities and help you build a reputation in this niche market. Here's why focusing on reverse mortgage leads can be beneficial:

Growing Market: As the baby boomer generation continues to retire, the demand for reverse mortgages is expected to increase. Targeting this demographic can position your business for future growth.

High Conversion Potential: Seniors seeking reverse mortgages are often highly motivated and ready to act. This means that well-qualified leads have a higher potential for conversion compared to other financial products.

Client Retention: Providing valuable solutions to seniors can build long-term relationships. Satisfied clients are more likely to refer you to others, enhancing your reputation and lead generation efforts.

Strategies for Generating High-Quality Reverse Mortgage Leads

Generating quality reverse mortgage leads requires a strategic approach. Here are some effective methods to consider:

Targeted Marketing Campaigns: Develop marketing campaigns specifically aimed at seniors and their families. Use demographic targeting on social media platforms and online advertising to reach individuals who are likely to be interested in reverse mortgages.

Educational Content: Create informative content that explains the benefits and workings of reverse mortgages. This can include blog posts, webinars, and informational brochures. Providing valuable information can establish you as an authority in the field and attract potential leads.

Partnerships and Referrals: Build relationships with other professionals who work with seniors, such as financial planners, elder law attorneys, and real estate agents. These professionals can refer clients to you who may be interested in reverse mortgages.

Online Presence: Optimize your website for search engines with keywords related to reverse mortgages. A well-optimized website can attract organic traffic from individuals searching for information about reverse mortgages.

Lead Generation Services: Utilize lead generation services that specialize in reverse mortgage leads. These services often have access to a database of potential clients who have expressed interest in reverse mortgages.

Local Seminars and Workshops: Host educational seminars and workshops in your community. These events can provide valuable information to seniors and their families, positioning you as a trusted expert in reverse mortgages.

Follow-Up Strategies: Implement a robust follow-up strategy for leads. Personalized communication and timely follow-ups can significantly increase your chances of converting leads into clients.

Best Practices for Converting Reverse Mortgage Leads

Once you have generated leads, the next step is to convert them into clients. Here are some best practices for converting reverse mortgage leads:

Personalized Consultations: Offer personalized consultations to understand the unique needs and financial goals of each lead. Tailor your recommendations to their specific situation to build trust and credibility.

Clear Communication: Ensure that all communication with leads is clear and transparent. Explain the reverse mortgage process, benefits, and potential drawbacks in simple terms to avoid confusion.

Provide Value: Demonstrate how a reverse mortgage can provide value to the lead’s financial situation. Highlight how it can enhance their retirement lifestyle and provide financial security.

Address Concerns: Be prepared to address any concerns or objections leads may have. Providing honest and thorough answers can help alleviate doubts and build confidence in your services.

Build Relationships: Focus on building long-term relationships with clients. Satisfied clients are more likely to refer others and provide positive reviews, which can further boost your lead generation efforts.

Conclusion

Reverse mortgage leads represent a significant opportunity for financial professionals looking to expand their business and serve the senior community. By implementing effective lead generation strategies and best practices for conversion, you can position yourself as a trusted expert in reverse mortgages. At The Live Lead, we are dedicated to helping you unlock the potential of reverse mortgage leads and achieve financial success. Embrace these strategies, and watch your business grow as you make a positive impact on the lives of seniors seeking financial freedom.

[familyfirstfirm]

Elder Law Attorney

At the Family First Firm - Medicaid & Elder Law Attorneys, we’ll help support you and your loved ones with Medicaid, wills, trusts, advanced directives, Veteran’s benefits, probate, and more. Whether you’re rejoicing in the birth of a child, planning for the future, or celebrating the life of a loved one, we’ll be here — by your side. Welcome To Family First Firm — Your Elder Law Experts™! Our team is your family's ally. With a focus on elder law, we provide compassionate support and expert guidance for your legal needs. Our experienced team understands the importance of planning for your future and protecting your loved ones. We approach each client with empathy and respect, treating you as a member of our own family. From the moment you walk through our doors, you can trust that we'll be by your side every step of the way.

Who Are We? We are an Elder Law Firm here in Central Florida. What we stand for says a lot about who we are, so let’s start with our core values. Our core values are the foundation of who we are and guide every decision we make, from who we hire to how we ensure our team stays aligned. Our Purpose Statement Our purpose statement explains why we do what we do. It's about taking care of our team, managing our clients' resources well, doing the right thing, and being part of our community. In short, it all boils down to one thing:

At Family First Firm, our dedicated team is the cornerstone of our practice. We understand the importance of having the right individuals in key roles to provide exceptional service to our clients. Our team includes skilled professionals such as Elder Law Attorneys, Legal Assistants, Client Advocates, and Administrative Staff, all committed to serving the elder community in Orange County.

Since 2009, we've been proud to serve families in Orange County, offering compassionate legal guidance and support. With deep roots in the community, we've assisted numerous families in navigating complex legal matters related to elder care and estate planning. Our commitment extends beyond legal services – we actively engage with local organizations and initiatives aimed at enhancing the lives of seniors in our community. What We Do And How We Do It While Family First Firm comprises a team of elder law experts, it's essential to remember that we are individuals too. Just like you, we have families and values that shape who we are. In an industry often characterized by apathy and legalese,, we take pride in offering a personal touch and empathy to each client we serve.

Every family deserves peace of mind, and it's time you find yours. That's where Family First Firm comes in. We understand that every family is unique, and we're here to support you every step of the way. Always by your side, we provide personalized legal guidance tailored to your specific needs.

Before embarking on any legal journey, we initiate a "Discovery Discussion" to ensure alignment between our services and your goals. We believe in understanding your objectives thoroughly before determining the best course of action, and we're committed to doing everything we can to help you achieve them. Our Services At Family First Firm, we understand the unique needs and challenges that come with planning for the future and ensuring the well-being of your family. With our comprehensive range of elder law services, we provide expert guidance and support to help you navigate complex legal matters with confidence and peace of mind.