About John Devendorf, Esq.
John Devendorf is a graduate of UCLA and holds a J.D. from Seton Hall University School of Law, where he was a Distinguished Scholar, recipient of the ALI-ABA Scholarship and Leadership Award, and a participant in the Immigrant Workers’ Rights Clinic and special delegation to Haiti.
A licensed attorney for more than a decade, John transitioned to a career as a legal content writer and editor after an externship with the IRS, a judicial clerkship, and practicing at a civil litigation firm in Princeton, New Jersey. John now lives in Portland, Oregon, where he enjoys writing, international travel, and escape rooms.
Articles written by John Devendorf, Esq.
What Are the Penalties for Accumulating Too Many Traffic Tickets?
Too many traffic tickets can get expensive with fines and court costs. However, too many traffic tickets can risk a suspended license and take away your driving privileges. Most insurance companies will also increase your auto insurance premiums if you have too many moving violations. Ignoring the tickets can increase penalties and even result in a warrant for your arrest. Traffic laws vary by state. To understand the penalties for getting too many traffic tickets, talk to a local traffic …
The Pros and Cons of Pleading Guilty to a Traffic Ticket
It is generally faster and easier to plead guilty after a traffic violation and pay the fines. You may not have the time to research the traffic laws or go to the court hearing. However, the consequences of pleading guilty to a traffic ticket include fines and higher insurance rates. There are benefits and drawbacks to pleading guilty to a traffic ticket. However, traffic laws can depend on your state. Talk to a traffic violation lawyer for legal advice on handling your traffic ticket. …
The Costs of Contesting a Traffic Ticket: Is It Worth It?
When a police officer pulls you over for running a red light or stop sign, they issue you a traffic ticket. You can pay the ticket, deal with the points on your record, or contest the violation. Whether it is worth the cost of fighting a speeding ticket depends on your specific situation. You have to weigh the costs in time and money against how much it will cost to plead guilty. The costs of a traffic ticket depend on local traffic laws and your driving record. For legal advice about whether …
How Long Does a Traffic Ticket Stay on Your Record?
Most common traffic tickets involve speeding, distracted driving, or running a stop sign. Traffic tickets usually mean paying a fine or trying to fight the ticket in traffic court. However, a traffic ticket can also increase your car insurance rates. Insurance rate increases can continue until the ticket is no longer on your driving record. Keeping a traffic ticket off your driving history can help you avoid higher auto insurance premiums. You can fight traffic violations or go through traffic …
Can You Contest a Traffic Ticket Without Going to Court?
A traffic ticket can increase your insurance premiums and put your driving privileges at risk. You can contest the traffic ticket to keep your record clean or ask for traffic school to avoid points on your record. However, going to court to fight a traffic ticket may not be worth the time and cost. There are ways to deal with a traffic ticket without going to court in person. Traffic cases can depend on the type of violation and where you got the ticket. To find out about alternatives to …
What Happens if You Ignore a Traffic Ticket?
Ignoring a traffic ticket can lead to a suspended driver's license, increased fines, and possible arrest. A traffic ticket generally isn't as serious as a criminal arrest, but failing to address the ticket and fines can hurt your record. A traffic ticket lawyer can help you clear up an old ticket and keep your driving record clear. Traffic ticket laws vary by state. Some states take traffic violations more seriously. For legal advice on what to do with a speeding ticket, talk to a local traffic …
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Contesting a Traffic Ticket
Contesting a traffic ticket is your chance to keep the ticket off your driving record. In most states, you can contest a ticket by mail or by appearing in traffic court. There are many possible legal defenses against traffic violations. With research and preparation, you have a good chance of winning your traffic ticket case. Traffic laws vary by state. To understand how to contest a traffic ticket in your state, talk to a local traffic violation lawyer for legal advice. Understanding Traffic …
Grandparents’ Rights During a Divorce
Grandparents have no legal standing for visitation rights in a divorce or legal custody battle. Grandparents do not have parental rights and can be denied access, even if it is an unreasonable denial. It is up to the custodial parents to allow regular contact or schedule visits with grandparents. Grandparents can file a court petition with the family court for grandparent visitation if they have an emotional bond and a meaningful relationship with their grandchildren. However, a court order …
How To Get a Quick Divorce
In many ways, getting married is faster than getting divorced. In some states, you can show up to the courthouse and get married with a quick ceremony and pay the filing fees. However, a legal divorce takes longer. If you and your spouse can agree on the terms of the divorce, you can get a simplified legal separation that takes between a few weeks and a few months. However, requirements for a divorce depend on your local court. To find out how to get a quick divorce in your state, talk to a …
What To Do If Your Spouse Hides Assets During Divorce
Married couples should have trust in their partner, including trust involving financial matters. Most married couples combine their marital assets during their marriage. When one spouse handles most of the finances, they may try to hide assets in a divorce case. Hidden assets will mean you don't get a fair division of property in a divorce. Your spouse can face criminal charges for financial fraud during a divorce. If you suspect your spouse is hiding money, investments, or real estate, talk to …
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