About Andra DelMonico, J.D.
Graduating from Stetson University College of Law with a J.D., Andra brings a straightforward approach to legal writing. With over a decade of freelance writing experience, she has a wealth of experience in writing about a broad range of legal topics. She has ghostwritten for individual attorneys, law firms, and businesses. When not writing, Andra spends her time boating and motorcycle riding with her family in sunny Florida.
Articles written by Andra DelMonico, J.D.
What Is Double Jeopardy?
Being charged with a crime is terrible enough—imagine having to fight the same battle twice. Double jeopardy is a critical legal protection that prevents multiple prosecutions for the same offense. However, legal loopholes and U.S. Supreme Court rulings have shaped its application in surprising ways. Understanding double jeopardy is not just a legal technicality but a safeguard of fairness in the criminal justice system. As in all criminal law matters, having a criminal defense attorney on …
What Is Home Rule?
What works for a bustling metropolis like Chicago might not work for a small town in central Illinois. Similarly, large cities might differ from state politics in important social and political ways. So, why should every area of a state necessarily follow the same rules? Home rule refers to the power of local governments in the United States to pass laws and govern their own affairs. It gives communities more control over policies that directly affect them. However, state governments can still …
What Is Forum Shopping?
Choosing the proper court can mean the difference between winning and losing a case. Forum shopping occurs when litigants select a jurisdiction that offers procedural or legal advantages. While this tactic can be advantageous, legal doctrines and court rulings limit forum selection to prevent abuse and ensure fairness. Understanding how forum shopping works and when it is legally permissible is essential for anyone involved in litigation. Learn how experienced attorneys navigate this process to …
How Are Juries Selected in Civil Cases?
The composition of a jury can make or break a civil trial, influencing the outcome before a witness takes the stand. Jury selection is a crucial step in determining case outcomes. The process involves more than just randomly picking names — it involves strategy. Lawyers on both sides work to ensure that jurors are impartial while also considering how each person’s background, experiences, and biases might influence the verdict. Understanding this process can help you navigate jury duty or …
What Is Genetic Discrimination?
Your DNA should shape your medical future—not your career, insurance, or legal rights. As genetic testing becomes more common, concerns about genetic discrimination are rising. That’s the reality of genetic discrimination, where individuals face unfair treatment based on their DNA rather than their actual health. Employers and insurers may attempt to use genetic information to make decisions about hiring, promotions, or coverage despite federal laws that prohibit such practices. …
When Can Child Support Be Terminated?
Ending child support isn’t as simple as stopping payments. Many parents assume support automatically stops when a child becomes an adult. However, legal requirements vary by state and circumstance. Whether your child is turning 18, becoming financially independent, or meeting other termination criteria, it’s essential to understand the legal steps required. Simply stopping payments can result in penalties, arrears, and legal complications. A child support attorney can help you determine …
How Do You Change a Child Support Order?
A child support order is meant to ensure financial stability for your child, but what happens when circumstances change? If your current child support order no longer reflects your financial reality or your child's evolving needs, you may be eligible for a modification. Courts allow modifications for significant life changes, but this requires legal documentation and approval, and the process for modifying child support can vary from state to state. Understanding your legal rights and working …
How Do You Enforce a Child Custody Order?
Maintaining a consistent and legally binding child custody arrangement is essential for your child's development and stability. One parent failing to follow the agreed-upon custody arrangements can disrupt the child's routine and the entire family dynamic. Unfortunately, violations do happen, and parents must take action to address them swiftly. Understanding how to enforce a custody order and what actions to take if violations occur can help protect your rights and your child's future. Learn …
Child Support: A Legal Overview
Your child's future depends on a fair and legally sound support arrangement. When parents separate or divorce, child support becomes a critical legal matter directly impacting a child's well-being. Courts prioritize the child's best interests when determining the amount of child support, considering factors such as parent’s income and living arrangements. However, legal complexities and state-specific laws can make these cases difficult to manage. If you’re struggling with a child support …
How Can the Government Use the Information It Has About Me?
When you file taxes, apply for a passport, or use a government service, your personal data is logged in federal databases. While this information serves practical purposes, it also raises critical privacy concerns. Constitutional provisions like the Fourth Amendment and laws like the Privacy Act establish protections, but government agencies still have broad authority to collect and use data. Whether you’re concerned about surveillance, data misuse, or protecting your privacy, understanding …
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