COVID-19 Notice: In an abundance of caution and in consideration of our community members at risk, we have temporarily closed our office to in-person consultations and meetings. We remain readily available by telephone for consultations and meetings. You can reach us through our general office number, 970.986.6460. Any voicemail you leave will be returned promptly. You can contact Maryjo on her direct dial - 970.236.1608 and Steve on his direct dial 716.970.4695. You can reach Daniela by email at admin@zweiglawteam.com, Maryjo at maryjo@zweiglawteam.com, and Steve at steve@zweiglawteam.com.

Maryjo, Daniela and Steve would like to wish our clients, colleagues, friends and community members health, safety, and peace during these trying times.

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August 26, 2019
Blog

Subaru Crosstreks sees most crashes despite high safety rating

Auto accidents in Colorado and across the U.S. affect 25.81% of all the Subaru Crosstreks on the road today. The Crosstrek is involved in more at-fault crashes than any other newer vehicle according to Insurify. The auto insurance comparison site has even compiled a list of 10 cars that are involved in the most crashes; altogether, car crashes affect 13.64% of these vehicles.It may seem strange that the Crosstrek would be at the top of the list when the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety gave the 2019 Crosstrek the highest possible safety rating. This rating covers both crashworthiness and crash avoidance. It is true that many crashes lead only to minor injuries for the drivers of and passengers in Subaru Crosstreks. Crosstreks are also affordable and have great fuel economy, adding to their value.The other vehicles on the list are as follows: the Honda HR-V, Hyundai Elantra GT, Infiniti Q50, Subaru WRX, Mazda3, Acura ILX, Lexus CT, Chevrolet Trax and Hyundai Santa Fe Sport. Subaru’s second vehicle on the list, the WRX, is known as the car that gets pulled over the most for speeding offenses. The Chevrolet Trax is the only American car on the list. Of the imports, seven hail from Japan, and two are from Korea.Whatever a car’s make or model, it is, to a large extent, safe only insofar as the driver is safe. If negligent driving is to blame for a car crash, those who were injured without playing a part in the crash may consider a case under personal injury law. In Colorado, one can recover damages even when partially at fault although the final amount will be lessened in proportion to that degree of fault. Victims may want legal assistance.

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August 14, 2019
Blog

Study of divorce reasons offers insights about marriage

When people in Colorado begin considering divorce, it might be because they feel their marriage is emotionally unfulfilling. A study that was published in the Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy reported that the reasons people give for divorce tend to be emotional and psychological and not reasons related to behavior.The study surveyed 2,371 people who had recently divorced and who were 45 years old on average. It found that 47% said they got a divorce because they no longer loved their partner or vice versa, and 44% said communication issues were one of the main reasons that led to the end of their marriage. Problems with communication has long been understand as a major reason for divorce. The third most commonly cited reason for divorce was a betrayal of trust or a lack of respect for one another. In fourth place, people said they had grown apart from their spouse. Researchers said that the responses suggested a change in how marriage is viewed. Increasingly, it is considered something that fundamentally should provide both spouses with emotional support.Among respondents, 44% said they had put the divorce in motion while 40% said their spouse had. Only 16% said the decision to divorce was mutual.Whether or not initiating the divorce is mutual, people have a choice to either negotiate a settlement out of court or go to litigation. The former can be cheaper and less stressful, and it also puts the couple in control of the outcome. However, the latter is sometimes necessary because one person is uncooperative or there are other issues. For example, if the relationship is abusive or one parent is concerned about the child’s safety with the other parent, it may be necessary to go to court. An attorney may be able to help with either process.

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July 31, 2019
Blog

Smart social media use during divorce

For some ex-spouses in Colorado, posting on social media about a divorce might seem like a good way to vent. However, this can also backfire. Anything people post online might be used against them during a divorce. It is better to keep conversations about a divorce offline and avoid mentioning a marriage breakup on Twitter, Facebook and other social media platforms.Couples who are divorcing amicably could make an agreement about announcing the split online. Spouses should keep in mind that using social media irresponsibly can change an amicable divorce into a contentious battle. If there are kids involved, parents should be aware of each other’s preferences regarding posting about the children online. They may want to include a provision in the divorce agreement that outlines whether photos and other information about their children will be shared on social media.In general, people should be mindful of their privacy online during a divorce and not post negative updates about an ex-spouse. Some people do remain friends on social media after a divorce, and others may continue to inhabit the same social and professional circles. Information shared online could still be used against one parent by the other to make a change in child support or custody arrangements.Parents who cannot reach an agreement regarding custody and support may need to go to family law court, but they should be aware that a judge might look negatively on a parent who does not appear to be cooperating. Genuinely important information indicating that a child is unsafe or that a parent is lying about income may be shared in a custody dispute. Legal counsel could help a parent gather and present evidence.

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July 17, 2019
Blog

Is a drug recognition expert involved in your DUI case?

In Colorado, an officer may pull a driver over for a traffic infraction such as speeding and then gain probable cause to test the person for impairment. While this is true of any officer in any state, there are officers in Colorado trained specifically to be drug recognition experts. They attend an extensive and in-depth program with international standards developed by the International Association of Chiefs of Police and supported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.Here are the methods a DRE may use to identify a drugged driver.Conducting a blood alcohol concentration test on the driverColorado has an expressed consent law. Every driver on the road has legally provided consent to undergo a chemical test such as a breath, blood, urine or saliva test simply by being on the road. A DRE will conduct this type of test.

Interviewing the officer who arrested the driver and the driver

The DRE may become involved after an arrest, in which case he or she will gather all the facts of the arrest from the officer involved. The DRE will also talk to or further interrogate the driver.

Examining the driver’s physical condition

There are several physical signs that indicate impairment that should be obvious to someone with the DRE training. The DRE will examine the driver’s eyes, vital signs (blood pressure, pulse and body temperature), pupil size, muscle tone and nasal and oral cavities. The DRE will also check for signs of drug injection.

Testing for divided attention

Two of the standard field sobriety tests include a mental component designed to reveal impairment: the one-leg-stand and the walk-and-turn. The driver must complete a simple physical task while remembering and successfully following the instructions the officer provided.

Submitting chemical sample for analysis

If the initial BAC testing was a breath test, then the driver will also undergo a blood or urine test, possibly both. These results will be analyzed for drugs and alcohol.

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July 15, 2019
Blog

Wedding debt may be linked to unhappy couples

When people in Colorado go into debt to finance their weddings, it could be a sign of further trouble down the road. Because finances and debt can be such a powerful source of marital strife, it is essential to consider the future effects of the debt when deciding to splurge on a venue, catering or an open bar for a large, elegant wedding. According to one study conducted by loan company LendingTree, 45% of newly married couples between 18 and 53 took on debt in order to finance their wedding ceremonies. Many people expect to be able to host elaborate ceremonies for their weddings even if they are just starting out and struggling financially.The survey found that, of the couples who went into debt for their weddings, almost half had considered divorce since their marriage because of financial stress, particularly wedding-linked debt. On the other hand, only 9% of the couples without wedding debt said the same. The couples who went into debt also seemed to have more differences about how to fund their ceremonies. Three-quarters reported having arguments about the expenses that went into the wedding, while only 20% of the couples without wedding debt said the same.Of course, there are a number of factors that can help to produce these results. The couples with wedding debt may still have enjoyed large weddings, but they may be wealthier and better able to deal with financial stresses. The couples with more debt may also be facing difficult financial circumstances in other aspects of their lives.Marriage and divorce are financial and practical transactions as well as reflections of a romantic relationship. A family law attorney might be able to provide advice and guidance on how assets and debt can affect the end of a marriage, including property division and spousal support.
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July 5, 2019
Blog

Safety technology belongs in every vehicle

In Colorado and across the United States, 90 percent of serious car crashes are caused by drivers who make wrong decisions at critical moments. Automatic emergency braking systems and forward collision warnings help prevent mistakes from taking place. However, only 56 percent of the vehicles manufactured in 2019 include these safety features. Jeff Plungis of Consumer Reports believes that every new automobile needs to have a forward collision warning and an automatic emergency braking system. He mentions that technology is not always implemented in a timely manner. For instance, he states that it took more than a decade before it was mandatory for car manufacturers to include seat belts in all vehicles.Thanks to the invention of the now common seat belt, more than 300,000 people have survived car crashes since 1960. Today, seat belt technology has improved by the implementation of two parts called the “limiter” and the “pretensioner.” A limiter provides enough slack to protect the seat belt wearer from injuries. A pretensioner ensures that the seat belt becomes tighter in the event of a crash.In addition, some vehicles include inflatable seat belts offering even more protection from potentially serious injuries. Plungis states that many automobiles do not include built-in safety features. Plus, he mentions that safety features often focus on front seats rather than rear seats. He states that life-saving technology is not only for wealthy people who can afford to buy expensive luxury cars.A car accident can occur even if the vehicle includes every conceivable safety feature. Survivors of car crashes need to understand that insurance companies do not necessarily provide adequate compensation for injuries and injury-related matters. When a victim incurs paralysis or a traumatic brain injury caused by a car crash, speaking to a personal injury attorney may lead to monetary compensation.
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June 21, 2019
Blog

Proving causation: an obstacle in many malpractice cases

Medical malpractice cases are some of the most difficult personal injury cases to pursue in Colorado and elsewhere around the country. Two things must be proven for such a case to be valid, the first being the fact that the doctor, nurse or other medical professional failed to provide an established standard of care. While this can be easily done, the second step, that of linking the negligence to the injury, can be challenging.For example, those who are about to undergo a surgical procedure are told beforehand that there can be side effects and complications. If they develop complications after surgery, then they will need to show that a surgical error or another mistake was to blame. Otherwise, they cannot be compensated for injuries that can arise even when there is no negligence.Orthopedic injuries like fractures come with a similar risk. Not all of them heal properly even when the doctors follow an accepted standard of care. Only in cases where a doctor was clearly negligent, such as in failing to align the bone or consider surgery when the injury would have called for it, can victims be successful.Delayed cancer diagnoses pose a problem, too, for those who wish to file a claim. Cancer has a high mortality rate and requires extensive treatment.

Those who believe they have a strong case may wish to have it evaluated by a lawyer. Most attorneys who specialize in personal injury have a network of professionals who can help build up cases. Investigators may obtain proof of negligence, and medical experts may measure the extent of injuries and their related costs. Expert witnesses may come in to offer testimony. A lawyer may start by striving for a settlement out of court, litigating only when negotiations fail.

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June 3, 2019
Blog

Business owners may have special concerns during divorce

Business owners in Colorado who decide to divorce may have specific concerns that arise about their situation. After all, some of the longest-lasting effects of divorce are financial, and these issues may linger long after the emotional and practical issues have faded away. In particular, business owners may want to think about the tax implications as well as the impact on their companies of any decisions they make about property division in a divorce. However, business owners can work with professionals and take steps to allow their companies to emerge successfully after a divorce.With many family-owned businesses, these enterprises may be the major source of income as well as a significant marital asset. This means that the business may be the primary subject of negotiations over how to handle property division in the divorce. This is especially true for the type of small companies where personal and corporate lines are often heavily blurred in terms of finances. As a result, it may be difficult to agree on a valuation for the business or an accurate assessment of the business owner’s income.Since Colorado is an equitable distribution state, it is not assumed that each spouse will necessarily receive 50% of the business during a divorce. However, when the business is a major contributor to household income, and both spouses are part of its success, it should be considered likely that some division will be a part of the divorce settlement. In some cases, other marital property, such as investment funds or retirement plans, can be used to “buy out” the other spouse.The complications that accompany the financial side of divorce can be exacerbated when a family business is involved. A family law attorney can work with a divorcing spouse to advocate for a fair settlement on property division and spousal support.
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May 21, 2019
Blog

Many drivers don’t understand advanced safety technology

Drivers in Colorado and elsewhere may not understand the advanced safety technology that automakers are increasingly placing in new vehicles. As a result, they may not be using or responding to the systems properly.Currently, around half of all new vehicles manufactured in the U.S. are semi-automated, including those with relatively low price tags. In addition, automakers have pledged to make automatic emergency braking systems standard on all new cars sold in the U.S. by 2020. However, many drivers don’t understand how this technology works, which sometimes leads to fatalities. For example, a survey found that 11% of drivers misunderstand how semi-autonomous vehicles work, thinking that they can use their phone or read while the car drives itself. In fact, several drivers who have let their semi-automated vehicles drive themselves ended up dying in horrific crashes. While fully automated cars are being tested across the country, none of them have yet reached the market.The situation is being compared to the automated technology that has been added to commercial aircraft over the decades. While these systems have helped pilots avoid crashes, they have also had some tragic unintended consequences, including the two recent crashes involving Boeing 737 Max planes. Analysts say the solution to both problems is to make sure drivers and pilots are thoroughly educated on the advanced safety technologies that are installed in their cars and planes.Someone who has been injured by a driver improperly operating a semi-automated vehicle might have grounds to take legal action. For instance, by filing a personal injury lawsuit, an injured party could obtain compensation for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, property damage and other accident-related losses. An injured victim could initiate the lawsuit process by partnering with an attorney who handles car crash claims.

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May 20, 2019
Blog

Changes in tax law forces changes in divorce settlements

When the government changed the tax code, divorce filings increased in 2018 due to the implications of the changes. Lawmakers changed the code to remove the tax incentive for those paying alimony.How does one change in the tax law have such an impact on divorce settlements? To get an idea of what it may mean for you, take a look at what the law was like before Jan. 1, 2019 and how it exists now. Comparing the two may help you understand how divorce negotiations may differ drastically from what they were just a year ago.The old codeUnder the prior code, the spouse paying spousal support took a tax break on payments because it reduced income. A reduction in income may put the payer in a lower tax bracket. The recipient of the payments had to count it as income and pay the taxes. For some receiving the support, it may push them into a higher tax bracket. However, spousal support is necessary in many cases, as the recipient may have a difficult time without it. Therefore, having to pay taxes was not as big of an issue.

All divorces finalized prior to Jan. 1, 2019, became grandfathered into this tax situation.

The 2019 changes in the code

As of Jan. 1, spousal support is no longer taxable on either end. For the payer, this means it stays a part of the calculation of income, placing him or her into a higher bracket. The amount of money the payer now has to spend in taxes throws a wrench in negotiations.

Likewise, the change may seem to benefit the recipient since it is no longer taxable as income. However, with more of a reluctance to settle spousal supportpayments at a higher rate, it may wind up costing the recipient more in the short and long run.

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