Thurman Law Firm Blog
Understanding Boundary Line Disputes: Fences and Property Rights
Written by Caitlyn Vanover Understanding Boundary Line Disputes: Fences and Property Rights Boundary line disputes are among the most common issues between neighbors, especially when fences are involved. These disagreements can be stressful and costly if not handled...
What Is a Missouri Tax Sale? A Guide for Property Owners
Written by Caitlyn Vanover What Is a Missouri Tax Sale? A Guide for Property Owners If you own property in Missouri, understanding the state’s tax sale process is crucial. Falling behind on property taxes can lead to significant consequences, including the possibility...
What Is a Quiet Title Lawsuit, and When Is It Necessary?
Written by Caitlyn Vanover What Is a Quiet Title Lawsuit, and When Is It Necessary? When dealing with property ownership, clarity about who owns the title is essential. However, disputes, competing claims, or unclear records can create uncertainty. This is where a...
The Importance of Estate Planning: Protecting Your Assets and Your Legacy
Written by Robert Bateman Estate planning is a crucial step in ensuring that your wishes are respected and your loved ones are protected in the future. Many people believe that estate planning is only for the wealthy, but in reality, it’s beneficial for anyone with...
Attorney Profile – Brandon Moonier
"With over a decade of practice in Jefferson County, I am proud to serve the community where I was raised. While at Crystal City High School, I discovered a desire to help people solve problems. Every day I come to the office is an opportunity for me to make a...
Corporate Transparency Act
Congress adopted the anti-money laundering act of 2020 and the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) as a part of it. The purpose of the acts is as suggested in the titles – to combat money laundering, combat financing of terrorism and to detect other financial criminal...
Remembering Robert Lee Smith
In Memory of Our Law Partner: Robert Lee Smith
Income and the Form 14
In the state of Missouri, child support is determined using what is commonly referred to as the “Form 14”. The Form 14 was designed by the Missouri legislatures to calculate child support using a complicated formula that takes into account income, insurance and...
Can I Change The Locks?
One of the most common questions that I am asked while meeting with a landlord who is having to deal with the eviction of a tenant for the first time is whether the landlord can change the locks. Although there may be several reasons why a landlord may want to get...
Is Your Estate Plan Up To Date?
It is important to review your estate plan as life circumstances change. Changes such as moving out of state, purchasing real estate not in your state of residence changes in your family structure, changes substantially effecting the health or financial condition of...
Rights of Adoptees to Original Birth Certificate
There are few things that I do in my practice that make me feel better than helping a family become whole through an adoption. Adoption though has a lot of long term consequences. What happens later in life when an adoptee has health issues that they are trying to...
Know the Power of Your Tower – Get a Tower Appraisal!
As tower companies become more and more aggressive in pursuing tower lease extensions or the buyout of these leases, landowners often find themselves in a rush to make a decision on an offer. However, as many of these tower leases have a substantial number of years...
Missouri Sunshine Law – A Practical Guide for Requesting Records
In the event you need to obtain records from a government entity, The Sunshine Law allows you the opportunity to obtain those records.
Brewery Law
If you are thinking about opening a Brewpub it is important to know the laws associated with this type of business.
When Children Need Attorneys
As many as 75% of children in court proceed to a final outcome without an attorney. Children are generally unaware of their basic rights, making enormous life decisions without an advocate in the court room. It is vital to ensure they have a clear voice and advocate if faced with a legal situation.
“Forever Family”
We hope our story encourages others to step forward and help our County and our needy children down the right path. A “forever family” story from attorney and partner Brandon Moonier and his family.
Patricia Riehl for Judge
The Thurman Law Firm is proud to support Judge Patricia Riehl for re-election as Judge of Division 5 of the Circuit Court of Jefferson County. Judge Riehl has been a member of the Jefferson County Judiciary since 2003, and has established a reputation for fairness to each of the parties who have come before her.
Should a Decedent’s Will be Filed in Probate?
At the Thurman Law Firm we will be happy to meet with you and discuss your obligations when you are in possession of the Will of another, as well as your obligations with respect to the administration of an estate, or your obligations as a Trustee with respect to the administration of a Trust.
Parents or Grandparents – the Simone Biles controversy and the role of grandparents today
Parents or Grandparents? What are your options if you are ever placed in this family situation?
Piecing the puzzle together – Why I practice law
Why I practice law by Adam C. Renner, Attorney at Thurman Law Firm
Attorney and Partner Brandon Moonier Selected as Jefferson College 2016 Alumnus of the Year
The Jefferson College Faculty Senate recently selected Thurman Law Firm attorney and partner Brandon Moonier of Crystal City as Jefferson College’s 2016 Alumnus of the Year.
Nathan B. Stewart for Judge
The Thurman Law Firm is proud to support Judge Nathan Stewart for re-election as Judge of Division 3 of the Circuit Court of Jefferson County. Judge Stewart has been a member of the Jefferson County Judiciary since 1999, and has established a reputation for fairness to each of the parties who have come before him.
Your day in court
When your day in court finally arrives, decisions made can impact your life forever. Proper preparation is key to having the best opportunity for a favorable outcome.
Was I Wrongfully Terminated? A Primer on Employment Law in Missouri
I was just fired…do I have a case against my former employer?
A Calling
I am here because my 14 year old self recognized this profession as one that could do extraordinary good and I hope that I never forget that and continue to object to and rebel against those wrongs.
Buy Local – That Includes Your Attorney Too
If you had the choice between the attorney that works, lives and knows Jefferson County like the back of their hand and the attorney that doesn’t, what choice would you make?
Reasons to stop putting off estate planning
It is the start of a new year, and for many a time to make changes in their lives. Now is the time to stop putting off estate planning and begin to plan for the future.
One of the most important decisions you can make – the choice of your attorney
If you or someone you know has been accused of committing a crime, such as DWI, you require legal representation from a law firm that is committed to protecting your legal rights.
Child Abuse Allegations and the CANRB
If you are put in the uncomfortable situation of being accused of child abuse, either physical or sexual, there are certain procedures you must follow in order to preserve your right to argue against the allegations.
Subdivision restrictions, trustees and lot owners
Do you live in a private subdivision in the State of Missouri that has an indenture that outlines various easements, assessments and restrictions? What are your rights under the law and what could a lawsuit cost either yourself or the subdivision if proper legal counsel is not sought out during the early stages? The results may surprise you.
The trial – by Attorney Stephen Vighi
When I try a case, many times the individual is placing their life in my hands. This is a tremendous responsibility and one that I never take lightly. He is a brief look in to why I do what I do.
Cohabitation Agreements: Cohabitants have much to lose if they fail to plan.
Millions of couples in the United States, including Missouri, choose to cohabitate either before or instead of getting married. Careful planning is critical to avoid some complications that can occur with these relationships.
Jury duty…why is it always me?
Why does is always seem that I am chosen for jury duty? There are many jury duty myths that you may have heard but we would like to put these to rest and give you the whole truth and nothing but the truth regarding your stint in the courtroom.
Why I practice law – by Attorney and Partner Brandon Moonier at Thurman Law Firm
Eventually we all choose a path for our lives. I was fortunate to discover what I wanted to do with my life at an early age. This is my story as to why I choose to help those in the community as an attorney at Thurman Law Firm.
The Myth of the “Uncontested Divorce”
There are some important concerns to keep in mind and precautions to take when considering an “uncontested divorce”. Information that you need to know if you are considering this in your life.
Automobile Insurance – what you need to know before buying
Automobile insurance – it is something many of don’t really think about…until we are in an accident. As the adage goes, “you get what you pay for.” You truly do not know how good your carrier really is, until you need to make a claim, or a claim is made against you.
Irresponsible decisions by Syngenta driven strictly by profits harm corn farmers nationwide
As a farmer, were you affected by Syngenta’s corn seed marketed under the MIR162 trait? The Thurman Law Firm is seeking to represent individual farmers who have been injured by this conduct.
Old Estate Plan…New Problem
Planning for one’s future is not a “one and done” scenario. Just because your financial planning was what you wanted or needed then, it may not be in the right place now. To best protect what you have created you should consult with your attorney to see if changes need to be made to your estate plan before it is too late.
Thinking of the holidays
As the year winds to a close, many of us look to the future and the promise of what the next year will hold for us. One of the best ways to look forward is to consider estate planning as it is never too early to plan for your future.
Timing – a look into the criminal justice system
If you have had a run-in with the law, you may not be charged for months or even years, but to have the greatest chance at mitigating the issue it is vital that you hire a qualified attorney immediately upon your arrest – you need to have time on your side.
The legalities of purchasing property at a tax sale
Are you considering, or have you purchased property at a tax sale? There are many legal situations that can arise with such a transaction. Some important information you need to know.
The legality of Website mugshots
With the rise of social media and almost real-time information at our fingertips about nearly any topic in the world, are we really innocent until proven guilty?
Child support termination – What you need to know.
A parent’s obligation to pay child support to the other parent can be a heavy financial burden. There are certain events in a child’s life of which a paying parent should be mindful. If any of these events occurs, the paying parent should consider conferring with an attorney to discuss whether the particular event could or should trigger a change or termination of child support.
You have the right…
What if the police do not read the Miranda Rights during an arrest? Some may think it is a “get out of jail free card”, but that may not be the case.
The Power of the Power of Attorney
The Power of Attorney is a critical piece of any estate plan. While we cannot always plan for what our future holds, we can always be prepared.
Thurman Law Firm – Your Jefferson County Legal Team
With eleven attorneys the Thurman Law Firm is the largest Law Firm in Jefferson County. Regardless of which of our attorneys is first contacted, we make sure that a member of our firm who concentrates in that area of the law will handle your case.
If you get a DWI, you need to fight the DOR License Suspension
By hiring an attorney experienced enough to recognize when the law is in the driver’s favor and when it is not, a driver may be able reduce the impact of an administrative suspension or even avoid it all together.
You Get What You Pay For When Using Standardized Forms
You get what you pay for when using standardized forms. Should you speak to an attorney or rely on information you find on the Internet? Some things you need to know.
General Motors faulty ignition switches – are you considering filing a claim?
If you, or someone you know, purchased a vehicle from the GM recall list and were in an accident, which resulted in personal injury, economic loss or death, please contact the Thurman Law Firm, and we will evaluate your claim. We are also currently accepting personal injury cases resulting from these vehicle defects.
Why I am a Criminal Defense Lawyer, by Stephen Vighi
A look into why one Thurman attorney chose to practice criminal law.
Get that 10-year-old DWI expunged
In some cases it is possible remove a prior mistake from your records or court files. It could mean the difference between a felony or misdemeanor if charged again.
Arrests while on Misdemeanor Probation
One bad decision while on probation can lead to incremental problems if you are without legal counsel. Some important facts to know if you are on probation.
Ex-spouses can get along, and not just for the holidays
The holidays can bring out the best of us, but can also be a very stressful time for those that are divorced, or for a child of divorce. There is a new movement to put the anger behind and for ex-spouses to get along, not just for a few weeks a year, but for a lifetime.
Changes in tax law and its effect on estate planning
Changes in the tax law repurposes estate planning more toward income tax review. What you need to know.
Bond Settings in Jefferson County
If you have been arrested should you immediately hire an attorney? Some important information to know if you or someone you know is in this situation.
What is a Durable Power of Attorney, and do you need one?
At certain times in one’s life it may be in our best interest to authorize someone else to act on our behalf, granting them what is known as durable power of attorney. If you or a loved one are in this position, please contact us for additional information.
A tenant’s abandoned property – what are my rights as a landlord?
A discussion on how Missouri law defines a tenant’s abandoned property and what a landlord needs to do if faced with this issue.
Landlord and Tenant – some common myths explained
What are your rights as a landlord? As a tenant do you know the law? Some important facts you need to know.
“Gray Divorce” … You’re close to retirement, but can you afford to?
1 in 4 divorces occur with adults that are 50 and older. What can this do to your retirement, and how can you plan for your future?
Revocable living trusts are not just for the rich
Am I too young to have a trust? Do I have enough assets to have a trust? Should I wait until I am older to get a trust? Some important facts you need to know and what you should consider before making this decision.
How do you choose a bankruptcy attorney that is right for you?
It can sometimes feel like an overwhelming task to choose a bankruptcy attorney, but these questions will help you make an informed decision about your future.
DUI – unreasonable search and seizure?
A Missouri DUI case goes to the Supreme Court – what you need to know.
Questions you should ask to keep your divorce attorney honest
If your divorce lawyer is being honest, he or she should answer 9 questions before you choose to hire them. They can help minimize surprises, both for you and your family.
Do I need the advice of an attorney when I form an LLC or corporation for my company?
You can do a lot on the Internet with simply one click, but is it the best tool when it comes to the formation of a business entity?
Can your cell phone camera help your case if you have been in an auto accident? Some tips you need to know.
We live in a world where we carry our phones and take pictures of every day life. With these tips, your phone may be able to capture all the evidence you need if you are ever in an auto accident.
DWI enhancement in Missouri – what you need to know
DWI law in Missouri is constantly changing, making it difficult for driver’s to understand their rights and the consequences related to pleading guilty to alcohol related offenses. In many cases those changes can mean the difference between probation and spending years in prison. The most significant example is the law relating to “enhancement”.
Personal injury and your legal options
Personal injury is the area of law that covers any wrong or damage done to another in his or her person, property, rights, or reputation.
DWI – what you need to know
If you or someone you know has been accused of committing a crime, such as DWI, you require legal representation from a law firm that is committed to protecting your legal rights.
A hallmark day for victims of medical malpractice
Missouri Supreme Court Overturns Limits on Medical Malpractice Victims’ Right to Recover Damages
Custody: does the child have a say?
One of the most commonly asked questions of family law attorneys is “How old does a child have to be to decide where they want to live?”
Protecting your most important assets with estate planning – your kids!
While many families biggest purchases in life usually includes their home and vehicles, the biggest investment any family can make is not in your 401k, but rather in protecting the health and well being of your children.
Is your life in transition?
When you hear the word ‘transition’ what does that mean to you?
Revocable living trusts are not just for the rich
What to consider when deciding if a trust is something you need.
Frivolous Lawsuits
When society hears the term “frivolous lawsuits” we have been trained to act like Dorothy when the Wicked Witch says “I’ll get you my pretty!” How we have developed that fear and attitude towards the Court System is beyond me.
Missouri Supreme Court strikes down 2010 Ethics Law
Missouri Supreme Court strikes down 2010 Ethics Law. On February 14, 2012 the Missouri Supreme Court invalidated a 2010 Ethics Reform Law because of the procedure that was followed in passing it.
Custody: the court is not looking for the best parent
Custody: the court is not looking for the best parent. Instead, the court is guided by the principal of finding what is in the best interest of the child.
What district am I in?
What District am I in? That is a question that even causal political observers in the State of Missouri have to keep asking. Is there any resolution? When will we know?
Domestic Violence Month
Domestic violence is abuse directed toward a spouse or domestic partner; usually violence by men against women.
Divorce and bankruptcy
Divorce and bankruptcy:
When a marriage breaks up, the routine of the family is shifted and the family enters the transition of separation that brings stress, confusion, and uncertainty. Most people consider different aspects of the separation according to each situation. Often, these considerations include custody, child support and division of property. However, many couples do not consider the effects of divorce on their debt.