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In Alabama, the law treats stealing differently depending upon the circumstances behind it. The court will examine how much force you use, what you steal and the total worth of the stolen product. Based on that, they will make charges and dole out penalties. Today we will look at what differentiates some of these charges. … Continue reading What is the difference between robbery and theft?

For several years now, the nation’s economy has enjoyed relative strength and growth. However, that does not mean that every person is Alabama lives without worry when it comes to how to make ends meet. Many consumers continue to struggle financially regardless of the seemingly positive economy both domestically and globally. The exorbitant cost of… Continue reading The ongoing problem of medical debt

As 2020 approaches, your mind may be on the impending tax deadline. If you expect to owe taxes and are unsure about how to pay the IRS, you do have options.  Learn about steps to take when you cannot afford to pay your 2019 tax obligations.  File an extension  If you think that you can pay… Continue reading What happens when you cannot pay your taxes?

The decision to file for bankruptcy is not easy, but for many people it’s the best way to get a handle on their finances. Filing for bankruptcy also grants filers an automatic stay against creditor attempts at recovering the debt. If creditors attempt to recoup a debt while an automatic stay is in place they… Continue reading What is an automatic stay?

These days, jails and prisons across Alabama and the nation are overflowing with criminal offenders, many of whom are there because they committed drug-related offenses. If you are among those currently facing a drug-related criminal charge, you may have valid fears about potentially winding up behind bars, but this may not necessarily be your fate.… Continue reading For some, drug court an alternative to jail time

The last thing any business owner in Alabama wants to worry about when dealing with personal or professional income is when it is time to file for bankruptcy. However, when the warning signs come, it is important to understand exactly what the best choice for your future is. We here at Hawley & Associates, LLC,… Continue reading Knowing the signs of when to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy

Although a bill introduced in Alabama’s legislature proposed to raise the threshold, shoplifting remains a felony offense in the Yellowhammer State when the value of the goods is $500 or more. As reported by Alabama Retail, a proposed bill intended to raise the felony threshold to $2,500.  The bill’s purpose was to bring shoplifting offenses under… Continue reading Shoplifting remains a felony when the theft is $500 or more

While going through a bankruptcy in Alabama may be a trying time, in reality the end result is very liberating. Once you get through the bankruptcy process, you will be able to begin your financial life with a mostly clean slate. Of course, the bankruptcy will stay on your credit report for at minimum seven… Continue reading How can I rebuild my credit after bankruptcy?

Beginning the bankruptcy process is a daunting experience, especially if you are unsure of what to expect. Understanding the general timeline for a Chapter 7 case can make you feel a little more comfortable. It is always nice to know what to expect when you head into an Alabama bankruptcy court. The U.S. Courts explains… Continue reading What is the timeline for a Chapter 7?

You may have heard the story a while back about law enforcement caught a serial killer using DNA testing sites. It made national news and showed on local Alabama stations. These sites began popping up as a way for people to learn more about their genealogy. Now, these sites offer a range of services, including… Continue reading How can DNA sites lead to arrests?