The 7 Types of Elder Abuse To Watch For

Elders in our community should be treated with respect. They should be elevated and protected and adequately provided for throughout the rest of their lives. The sad reality is that elders are often more vulnerable than many other members of society. They are often open to suffering abuse, especially when placed in a nursing home, and are frequently unwilling or unable to be honest about their experiences with their Read More

4 Ways To Start Moving On After a Divorce

The first few months of a new year often feel like a fresh start. This can ring especially true for those who have just gotten out of a bad marriage. To begin with: congratulations! Divorce is just as common and natural as marriage. Getting to the other side of it intact is an accomplishment, and you should be proud of yourself. You just might find yourself wondering: What happens now? Moving on after a divorce Read More

5 DUI Myths

If you have been pulled over on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI), you may have many preconceived notions and other misconceptions about what to expect next.  Fortunately, when you have a dedicated DUI attorney at the law firm of John M. Totten, P.C. representing you, you can better understand your rights, how to exercise them, and how to best handle yourself when you are stopped and accused of drunk Read More

Can I Move Out Of State After My Divorce?

When your divorce has finally been settled, and you are ready to move forward with your life, you may be wondering whether you are legally allowed to move out of state.  If you and your ex did not share children, you have the right to move wherever you like. However, if you and your ex share children, moving out of state may prove to be more challenging than you might have thought. A respected Alabama family Read More

Criminal Charges & Background Investigations Mistakes

In Alabama, your employers may choose to conduct a background investigation on you before receiving an offer of employment. If you have a criminal record, a current or potential employer may be able to see them. The laws that govern the use of your criminal record are outlined on both a state and federal level.  Federal laws exist to ensure accuracy. Is it possible that a new employer may see someone else’s Read More

Planning For Your Financial Future During A Divorce

One of the most challenging aspects of the process is that it may be challenging to plan out your future because so much of your life is in flux. A divorce is life-altering. The future you envisioned for yourself is changing. That doesn’t mean for the worse or better; it is just different. Not knowing how your marital assets will be divided puts you in a difficult position. How can you plan when you don’t have a Read More

Getting Injured On Someone Else’s Property

When someone is injured on someone else’s property, they may ask if the owner is liable. The answer depends on several factors, but by understanding what they are, you will be in a better position to know whether someone is responsible for injuries you sustained.  It is true that property owners have to keep people safe when they are in their homes or on their property. That being said, certain circumstances have Read More

How To Make Your Divorce Efficient

If you enter into the divorce process with the mindset that there must be a long, drawn-out battle, then you might be writing your own future. The fact is that divorce can gravitate towards being uncontested.  Many people who have been through highly contested divorces ultimately become more flexible and willing to talk through issues after everything has been finalized and emotions have settled. Will every couple Read More

Can I Lose My Job Over a DUI?

Getting charged with a DUI has far-reaching consequences. It could result in your Driver’s License being suspended. It could lead to lengthy and expensive court experiences. Depending on the severity of the situation, you could even be facing time in jail. One question that we get asked a lot hits a little closer to home: can you lose your job over a DUI? The answer, as with most legal questions, is “it depends.” Read More

Legal vs. Physical Child Custody in Alabama

At John M. Totten, P.C., we know that nothing is more important to a parent in a divorce than the wellbeing of their child. Most parents’ number one concern is spending as much time with their child as possible. The truth is that following a divorce, everyone’s lifestyle changes dramatically. No one will get to see their child every single day like before - but you can work to spend as much time with them as Read More