About Judy Malmon, J.D.
Judy Malmon has blended law and writing throughout her career. She got her J.D. from University of California, Davis and practiced elder and disability law in California and Minnesota. She honed her writing by drafting appellate decisions in a nationwide class action, writing blogs for law firms, and writing for Westlaw. She loves digging into everyday legal questions, deciphering the complexities of law, and telling personal stories.
Articles written by Judy Malmon, J.D.
What Is Considered a “Committed Intimate Relationship”?
While legal marriage is the normative standard in American culture for couples who live together, have children, and plan to remain together, it is by no means the only option. For legal advice on family law matters, contact a local family law attorney. Legal Relationship Options in Washington State The state of Washington does not recognize common law marriage, which confers the benefits of marriage without a ceremony or exchange of vows. However, a unique designation, “committed intimate …
Your Smartphone Can Be Evidence in a Car Accident
Think no one is watching when you’re alone in your motor vehicle sending a text message? Think again. If you’re lucky and nothing happens while you had your eyes off the road, then you dodged a bullet. It only takes a second of looking at your phone to cause a car crash. And if you do get into an auto accident — either because you were distracted or hit by someone who was — it’s a good bet that the smartphone will be part of the case. When Your Phone Can Be Inspected After a Car …
How To Protect Yourself if You're Cohabiting in New Jersey
While marriage is the traditional route for American couples who live together, have children, purchase real estate, and plan to remain together, a growing trend presents an alternative. There are a number of benefits for couples entering into a legal marriage — however, most can also be available to unmarried partners. If you’re cohabiting and intend to remain unmarried for an extended period of time, it’s wise to make arrangements to protect yourself and your partner, as well as any …
Is a Cohabitation Agreement Right for Me?
Marriage isn't the right choice for every couple. However, couples can face challenges without the legal protections that come with marriage. A cohabitation agreement can spell out how to handle finances, property ownership, or parenting responsibilities. Cohabitation agreements establish legal protections for couples who live together but aren't married. If you're cohabiting and intend to remain unmarried for an extended period of time, talk to a family law attorney for legal advice. Legal …
Do I Have To Pay Taxes on Debt Settlements?
For most taxpayers, figuring out our income tax is hard enough. What about taxes based on money you never had? The concept is difficult to comprehend, never mind calculating the amount due each tax year. But don’t panic — this is actually a pretty common situation, albeit not intuitive. For legal guidance, reach out to a tax law attorney. The Difference Between What You Owed and What You Paid in a Debt Settlement Is Considered Income If you have a debt that you owe but enter into a …
Criminal Risk Assessments in Colorado
More and more courts are utilizing risk assessment tools to inform decision-making about bail and sentencing. These risk assessment instruments incorporate a range of data based on questions answered regarding each defendant. In Colorado, when someone has been charged with a crime, the court will generate a Pre-Sentence Investigation (PSI) report, listing risk factor information such as: Current charges; Prior convictions or criminal history; Work history; Marital status; Financial status; …
Real Estate Contract Options in Washington
If you’re buying or selling real property, certain procedures and financing options are so commonplace they’re unquestioned in many transactions. But, because purchasing or selling a home is one of the most significant financial events in a person’s life, a one-size-fits-all solution is hardly the best choice. One choice to consider, whether you’re the buyer or the seller, is a real estate contract — also known as a purchase contract for deed or land installment contract. Speak with a …
How Are Algorithms Used in the Criminal Justice System?
Algorithms are computerized analyses of data that use statistical probabilities to predict many aspects of people’s lives, from what music they’ll enjoy to when a traffic light should change. One area where algorithmic calculations have been used in recent years is in the criminal justice system. Algorithms are used to predict flight risk and the likelihood of reoffending while also setting bail, sentencing, and parole. It’s understandable why judges and other decision-makers might be …
Can You Take Your Paycheck in Cryptocurrency?
Early adopters, tech gurus, and people who don't want government monetary control are excited about cryptocurrency and crypto wallets. As virtual currency begins moving from the fringes toward a mainstream monetary exchange platform, there are still limits on getting digital payments. Some employees want to know if they can get paid in Bitcoin or another cryptocurrency. A few employers are dipping their toes into these uncharted waters. However, federal and state laws may limit payments in any …
Navigating Workplace Romance as an Employee
Many careers have been brought down in the post-MeToo era as long-ignored sexual harassment claims are finally taken seriously. The MeToo movement spurred people to reflect on their and others’ workplace behavior with greater scrutiny. But in many ways, rather than leading to increased clarity, this trend gave rise to the fear that any romantic overture or compliment would be misconstrued — particularly in a work environment. It’s all probably making us wonder: What, exactly, is the law? …
Find top lawyers with confidence
The Super Lawyers patented selection process is peer influenced and research driven, selecting the top 5% of attorneys to the Super Lawyers lists each year. We know lawyers and make it easy to connect with them.
Find a lawyer near you