Posts by Adrian Altshuler
Simple Assault vs. Aggravated Assault in Tennessee: What You Need to Know
You’ve probably heard the terms “simple assault” and “aggravated assault,” but do you really understand how Tennessee law treats them differently? In short, not all assaults are created equal, and what kind of charge you face determines everything, from potential jail time to felony records. Let’s walk through the legal details, how Tennessee law defines…
Read MoreSearch Warrants in Tennessee: Everything You Need to Know
You’re probably aware that search warrants are required for police to search your home, but do you really know your rights? In Tennessee, the rules around search warrants and search-and-seizure law are pretty strict. Understanding them can make a huge difference if law enforcement comes knocking, or worse, bursts through your door. Here’s what you…
Read MoreTennessee Self-Defense Laws: How Castle Doctrine & Stand Your Ground Laws Actually Work
You’ve probably heard about the Tennessee Castle Doctrine and “Stand Your Ground,” but do you really know how Tennessee law applies when you’re forced to defend yourself? In short, yes, you can use force to protect yourself or your loved ones, but only under specific conditions. Let’s explore Tennessee’s self-defense laws, walk through recent updates,…
Read MoreCan Police Search Your Car without a Warrant in Tennessee?
You’re pulled over. Maybe it’s just a broken taillight, but suddenly the officer asks, “Mind if I search your car?” Legally, this moment is very important: in Tennessee, police can search your vehicle without a warrant, but only in specific, narrow circumstances. Let’s break down when they can search, when you can refuse, and how…
Read MoreDo Different Alcoholic Drinks Affect You Differently?
Many people think that different drinks affect intoxication levels and emotions differently. They’re certain that beer makes them feel differently from wine, and that wine shouldn’t affect them the same way bourbon does. The starting point for this question is that generally there is no difference in the amount of ethanol in standard drinks, which…
Read MoreHow to Tell Your Spouse You Want a Divorce
Many divorces are not mutual decisions. Often, one spouse has been thinking about a divorce for a long time, while the other spouse is taken by surprise when the issue of divorce is raised. There is no easy way to tell your husband or wife that you want a divorce. Our Tennessee divorce lawyer has…
Read MoreHow to Leave a Toxic Marriage When You Have Children
Many parents struggle with the decision of whether to stay married if they have children when the love in the marriage is clearly gone. By staying in a toxic marriage, parents can create an especially difficult situation for the children who are witnessing and potentially normalizing abusive behaviors. What is a toxic marriage? Marriages end…
Read MoreHow to Move Forward After a Divorce
Once you announce that you intend to file for a divorce, you need to protect yourself and your future. Legally, protection means ensuring that your property is equitably divided, that you receive the financial income you need for yourself and your children, that custody and parenting plans are established, and that all your other financial…
Read MoreHow Serious are Property Crimes in Tennessee?
Property crimes are more serious than many people realize, and Tennessee courts take them very seriously. A wide range of offenses qualify as property crimes, including trespassing, theft, embezzlement, robbery, burglary, vandalism, arson, and carjacking. All property crimes share a common element: the intentional and unauthorized taking, use, or destruction of someone else’s property. Below…
Read MoreHow Do I Get Confiscated Property Back From Police After an Arrest?
Having your property confiscated after an arrest can be a confusing and frustrating experience. So do you have any remedy when the police take your belongings? There is more than one answer to that question because there is more than one scenario you might face. The answer to this question depends on why they took…
Read MoreWhat is the Cost of a Divorce in Tennessee?
The cost of divorce generally depends on a few factors – the lawyer’s hourly rate, the issues that need to be resolved, the finances of the spouses, how contentious or amicable the disputes are, and the alternatives to divorce. A more in-depth analysis of these issues follows. At the Law Offices of Adrian H. Altshuler…
Read MoreDivorce and Children With Disabilities
If your child has a disability (physical, cognitive, or emotional), then many divorce issues require unique considerations to ensure your child lives the best life possible. All aspects of the divorce can be affected, including child custody, parenting plans, child support, and the division of the marital assets. Additionally, your child may need additional medical…
Read MoreHow to Tell Your Spouse You Want a Divorce
There is no easy way to tell your spouse you want a divorce. If you find yourself trying to figure out how to have this conversation, you should consult with a Tennessee divorce lawyer. Your attorney can explain the legal ramifications of your decision to separate from your spouse. They can help you plan for…
Read MoreIgnition Interlock Device (IID) Laws in Tennessee
There are times when a driving under the influence (DUI) conviction in Tennessee prompts the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in your car. If you have been charged with a DUI, seek legal help. By partnering with a Franklin DUI lawyer, they could help you avoid a driving under the influence conviction. There…
Read MoreWill I Lose My Car Insurance for a DUI?
You could lose your car insurance coverage if you are convicted of driving under the influence (DUI). Auto insurance companies consider DUI convictions carefully. If you are convicted of a DUI, your insurer could decide not to renew your policy at the end of your coverage term. This means you could be forced to find…
Read MoreWhat Does “Contempt of Court” Mean?
“Contempt of court” means someone has disobeyed a court order or disrupted the judicial process. You can be charged with contempt if you violate an order from the court. Also, you can receive a contempt charge if you yell, scream, or do other things considered to be disrespectful or disruptive in the courtroom. In a…
Read MoreCriminal Forgery and Simulation in Tennessee
Criminal simulation is similar to criminal forgery – but not identical. They are different criminal charges. Both crimes involve intentional deception to obtain something of value from another person. Forgery generally involves the unauthorized use of a writing such as a check, deed, or power of attorney. Simulation involves intentionally or knowingly using machines to…
Read MoreIs it Worth Getting a Lawyer for a DUI?
Even a first-time DUI conviction can have serious criminal and civil consequences. If there are no aggravating factors like an accident or high BAC, some people might consider representing themselves. However, even in these cases, an attorney can often obtain better outcomes than a self-represented defendant. As a result, hiring a lawyer for a DUI…
Read MoreTennessee’s Law on Parental Relocation
When a divorced parent wishes to relocate, particularly out of state, it can disrupt the existing custody arrangement with the other parent as well as impact the child. In these cases, Tennessee courts will consider: The reason for the proposed relocation (employment, family support, better opportunities, etc.) How the move might impact the child’s relationship…
Read MoreCan a Lawyer Get My DUI Expunged in Tennessee?
Criminal convictions can affect many aspects of your life. Your employer may conduct a background check if you apply for a job. If the employer sees you have a conviction, they may not hire you. Convictions can make it difficult to buy a home, rent an apartment, obtain credit, or keep access to a firearm.…
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