It’s no secret that police officers strategically place and time DUI checkpoints to catch the most offenders possible. State troopers in Johnson County and throughout the nation have made their intentions clear: they are cracking down on drunk drivers this graduation season. With momentous events like prom and graduation, people are also more likely to drive while partially intoxicated.

Have you been arrested or charged with a DUI offense? If so, the ruthless process of the criminal justice system has already started and you need to act quickly to defend your rights. DUI charges can be complex matters because you will be facing both a criminal and civil case with the possibility of severe consequences. From the moment you are charged, you will have a mere 14 days to request an administrative hearing to save your driver’s license.

Medicaid is the largest source of funding for medical and health-related services for people with limited income. This nationwide health care program is operated and administered by the states, with Federal financial participation. Within certain broad federally determined guidelines, states decide who is eligible; the amount, duration, and scope of services covered; rates of payment for providers; and methods of administering the program.

Have you ever received a notice from the Social Security Administration saying that you owe them money? If so, you are not alone. I have lost count of the number of Seniors I have had come to me with a ‘bill’ from the Social Security Administration. Some have owed a couple of hundred dollars, others, several thousands. Regardless, the same questions are asked: “How did this happen?” and “What am I supposed to do now?”

Grandparents raising their grandchildren are nothing new; however, the issue is increasingly a focus of the public eye. Since 1980, there have been dramatic increases in the number of children living with and being cared for by their grandparents. Grandparents may resume a parenting role for a variety of reasons, most of which revolve around problems related to the child's parent.

If as the days go by, you discover that the decisions your husband, wife, parent, relative or friend once made, are now being neglected, your assistance may be needed. An adjudicated disabled adult is a person 18 years of age or older who, by decision of a judge or jury, is found to lack the capacity to manage the essential requirements for their own physical health or safety. When a judge or jury finds that an adult lacks this capacity, the court may appoint a Guardian for the disabled adult.

Although the Probate Process can be navigated, many would feel better if it could be avoided at all costs. The good news is that it can be avoided and it does not have to be costly at all. Probate Avoidance Procedures are becoming increasingly popular. They are simple to employ and can allow you the peace of mind of knowing that your family will not need to go through the court system when you pass in order to have your wishes granted.

It is impossible for me to define exactly what Probate will mean to you on a planning, emotional, or financial level. Your experience will depend on the type of estate you have, as well as, what you have done in advance to prepare for your passing.

Less than 25 percent of Americans have expressed their thoughts in writing about how they wish to be cared for at the end of life. Most would prefer to avoid the subject. However, it is encouraged to have these discussions now, so that you can make reasoned choices in advance, easing the stress on you and your family.

We have relief from the scorching days of summer, but the chill of winter will soon follow. If you are thinking ahead to the cold months to come, you are not alone. Many are planning extended vacations to warmer locale, but before you can enjoy the sunshine, you must plan for a safe and healthy trip.

Perhaps, again in your life, the time to search for “Mr. or Ms. Right” has come. Maybe you have already found that magic someone -- but have you considered the legal consequences of love?

“Are you short on cash? Do you own your home? Come in today and let us show you how you can make money each month while keeping your house!”

Insurance is a legal contract that protects people from the financial costs that result from loss of life, loss of health, lawsuits, or property damage. Since no one knows in advance when a loss will occur or how serious that loss will be, insurance provides a means for individuals and societies to cope with some of the risks faced in everyday life.

Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in America. In 2005, there were over 685,000 reports of consumer fraud and identity theft, resulting in a loss of over $680 million dollars.

We all try hard to pay our bills and not spend more than we have. However, sometimes emergencies arise. We need expensive medications. A utility bill is particularly high. A child needs money for a crisis. Paying for these things can cause one to be unable to pay their regular bills. This column answers the question: What do I do when a Creditor calls?