Sodoma Law News

Sodoma Law Teams with Barrister Technologies

2013-05-25T12:17:24+00:00

Parental Alienation Recognized

2013-05-22T15:18:24+00:00

Parental Alienation is a hot topic in high conflict Child Custody Cases across the country. Unfortunately, the terms are used so frequently, the Courts often disregard the significant harm Parental Alienation can cause in a parent-child relationship particularly because there has never been a “diagnosis” of this behavior. A group of health professionals has continued to push for Parental Alienation to be a diagnosable disorder that is recognized. Finally, on May 18, 2013, a new DSM-5 was published. This publication has been and will continue to be widely used as a reference book for psychiatrists, psychologists and other mental health providers. While Parental Alienation is not a separate diagnosis in the reference publication, there were other diagnoses listed that would support the spirit of a Parental Alienation case. For more information, contact info@sodomalaw.com.

Attorney Penelope Hefner Receives Award

2013-05-02T01:18:52+00:00

On May 1, 2013, Attorney Penelope Hefner received the Commitment to Justice Award for her hard work and contribution to the Legal Representation Project of Safe Alliance. Safe Alliance (formerly known as United Family Services) has many opportunities to volunteer. See http://www.safealliance.org/get-involved/volunteer/.

Ms. Hefner\'s committment has included many hours of pro bono legal services for victims of domestic violence.

Congratulations to Ms. Hefner!

Photo: Penelope Hefner and the Honorable Ty Hands (Lead Judge for Domestic Violence Court in Mecklenburg County)

Sodoma Law Supports Justice Initiatives

2013-04-26T23:06:14+00:00

For another year, Sodoma Law supported Justice Initiatives 7th Annual Evening at the Courthouse Fundraiser on Thursday, April 25, 2013. Justice Initiatives, Inc. was formed by a group of community and justice system leaders in North Carolina who are committed to tirelessly advocating for increased funding to the judicial branch and for raising seed money needed for the continued development of innovative programs and services that have brought forth national recognition and admiration. It\'s vision is to help deliver a court system that brings the highest quality of justice and fosters community trust and confidence.

Sodoma Law was pleased to participate and support Justice Initiatives!

(Photo from left: Nadia Margherio, Seth Glazer, the Honorable Charlotte Brown, Nicole Sodoma, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of NC Cheri Beasley)

Attorneys Selected to Present at AFCC Conference

2013-04-15T21:46:36+00:00

Congratulations to attorneys Nadia Margherio and Nicole Sodoma who have been selected to speak at the 50^th Anniversary Conference of the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (AFCC) in Los Angeles, California. Ms. Margherio and Ms. Sodoma’s session entitled “From Conception to Deception: How ART Impacts Family Law” will examine what to know and do when traditional and non-traditional couples use ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology) to create a family. For more information on ART, check out www.sodomalaw.com or email info@sodomalaw.com.

Congratulations Julia Kirby!

2013-04-10T12:24:17+00:00

Sodoma Law is pleased to announce that Julia A. Kirby has been admitted to the North Carolina Bar. Ms. Kirby is a 2012 graduate of the Charlotte School of Law and plans to focus her practice on Family Law. She has interned with Sodoma Law since 2011 and has now joined the Family Law Practice Group. Congratulations Attorney Julia A. Kirby!

Trouble with Creditors? How Bankruptcy May Help.

2013-04-01T20:50:50+00:00

When people file bankruptcy, the first question they often ask is “when will I start to see a benefit from this process?”

It takes a little bit of work to get to the point where you can file bankruptcy. You have to gather all your bills, list your property and account for your income and expenses. After all that work, you want to see results for your hard work and the fee you paid your attorney. No worries - the impact of a bankruptcy is immediate and powerful. One day you are sitting in my office signing all of your paperwork, normally exhausted from the constant calls and mailings from your creditors and then, like magic, the next day, you will notice a significant decrease in the phone calls you receive from your creditors. After about two to three days you will notice that not only have your calls stopped, but the mailings as well. The explanation for why this has happens is really quite simple and can all be explained by understanding the power of the “bankruptcy stay”.

Immediately when you file bankruptcy, your creditors must stop all collection efforts, at least temporarily. This includes lawsuits, foreclosures and repossessions. In fact, the Bankruptcy Code specifically forbids your creditors from performing any collection efforts and an immediate “stay” must go into effect. There are a few exceptions to this rule. For example, if your house has been sold at a foreclosure sale and a certain number of days have passed, it may be simply too late to get back your property or stop the effects of a judgment against you.

It is very important to not wait to see a bankruptcy attorney if you have been informed that you are facing a foreclosure, repossession or lawsuit. You need to move quickly so that the “bankruptcy stay” can stop these activities from having a potentially devastating impact on you and your family. These activities can be stopped, with the exceptions noted above, at least temporarily, and in most cases permanently stopped, as long as you successfully complete your bankruptcy case.

If a creditor still wants to move forward with a repossession, foreclosure or lawsuit after you file bankruptcy they have to ask for permission from the Court via a “Motion for Relief”. It is not usual for a mortgage or a car creditor to ask for Motion for Relief from stay after you file bankruptcy, however it is highly unusual for your credit card or other unsecured creditors to request such relief.

The Motion, which consists of the creditors request for relief from the stay to go forward with collections, is mailed to you and your attorney. If you are surrendering your house or car (which you would have discussed with your attorney - long before you filed bankruptcy), then no further action needs to be taken. However, if you want to keep your house or car, your attorney will walk you through your options and once again you have the option to save your house or car.

It is important if you want to keep your house and car to carry current insurance on your property and to maintain your payments after you file bankruptcy. If you are behind on your car or house payments before you file bankruptcy or if you are behind on your insurance premiums it is important to tell your attorney BEFORE you file. Your attorney can only help you if they know what is happening. Do not be afraid to talk about your current situation.

Note that the bankruptcy stay DOES NOT APPLY to child support or alimony payments. If you file bankruptcy and have to pay alimony or child support you cannot stop your spouse from collecting on past due amounts or receiving future amounts.

For more information on the powerful consequences of a bankruptcy stay, email us at info@sodomalaw.com.

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE WAS PREPARED BY SODOMA LAW, P.C. AND IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT, IN ANY WAY, CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE.

Holiday Weekend

2013-03-29T20:25:08+00:00

Sodoma Law will be closed on Friday, March 29, 2013 for the holiday weekend. We wil re-open on Monday, April 1, 2013 at 8:30 am. Thank you. Have a nice weekend!

Foreclosure Basics: Can I Save My Home?

2013-03-22T18:13:55+00:00

Many people are unclear on the basics of foreclosure and what they can do to save their homes. As homeowners, at one time or another, we have all worried about the risk of losing our house to fire, flood or other terrible act of nature. We board up our houses at the first sign of a hurricane or ty down lawn furniture before a thunder storm. We buy fire extinguishers, insurance and alarm systems. Protecting your home is one of the ways you protect your family. Therefore, the thought of losing your home to something other than an accident or act of nature is simply unthinkable, but it happens every day.

Thousands of people lose their home to foreclosure. What may have started out as a lost job, bad investment choice, or failed business often ends with a sheriff knocking at your door and your family hastily moving out boxes until you find a new home. It is a scene played out in almost every neighborhood - rich or poor - across this country and will continue to play out day in and day out. We all want to blame somebody even ourselves, but what you need to be asking is WHAT ARE MY OPTIONS?

Educate yourself. “Foreclosure” is the legal process by which a bank who owns the mortgage on your house obtains the house from you. This means: if you can’t pay your mortgage, then the bank has a legal right to take the house back from you and sell it to someone else to cover your unpaid mortgage.

Understand the timeline and take the necessary steps. In North Carolina, if you are behind at least 2 mortgage payments, then you are in danger of losing your home to foreclosure. Most banks and mortgage companies will contact an attorney to represent them in the foreclosure process when you are 75 days behind on your mortgage. If you are only behind 1 payment and feel that you can catch up, then call your mortgage company immediately to see if you can delay their timeline. You will likely be responsible for the missed payments, late fees and the attorney fees for the mortgage company. If you can stop your bank from calling their attorney, you will save money and will buy you and your family some much needed time.

You will receive a letter known as a “Right to Cure” which will tell you exactly how much you owe. It is important that you stay in contact with your mortgage company to ask for extensions on your mortgage payments or a “loan modification” to perhaps make your mortgage more affordable. These requests may delay the bank by a few weeks or in some cases a few months to a year. However, you cannot rely on the bank to not call their attorney, even if they seem to be working with you on your payments. You have to be prepared for the bank to not work with you.

Attend the foreclosure hearing. If the bank has already called their attorney, then you will receive, by certified mail or sheriff, a "Notice of Foreclosure" hearing. By law, this Notice of Foreclosure hearing must be delivered to you at least 30 days before your hearing. If the Sheriff knocks on your door, remember you have at least 30 days before your hearing and another 20 days until the bank would sell your house. Two months to take action!

The foreclosure hearing is a rather informal affair from what most folks expect. The hearing normally takes place not in a Courtroom in front of a Judge, but normally in North Carolina you are sitting a small conference room or clerk’s office in the back of a Courthouse somewhere in front of a clerk. The clerk’s role is to review the paperwork to determine whether four factors are present: 1.) Did you get the Notice of Foreclosure Hearing 2.) Was there a mortgage (called a Deed of Trust) and note that you signed? 3.) Was there a default (it does not matter if was one dollar or one million dollars)? 4.) Is all the paperwork in the file (meaning did you get all the notices that were required and did the bank file all the paperwork properly with the Court)?

Most people are surprised that the whole hearing can take less than 5 minutes and many homeowners do not even show up to their foreclosure hearings. Again the only factors that are considered are the factors above, not the fact you were unfairly laid off or that your child was sick. Unfortunately, it is a rather cold process that results in an “Order for Sale”. Once the “Order for Sale” is executed, your family’s home is heading to auction either in the lobby of the Courthouse or stairs in less than a month.

Know your sales date. Your sale date is an important day, as it is not only the day your house will be offered for sale to the highest bidder but it is also the day that a special 10 day window starts. You only have 10 days from the day of the sale to try to save your house by paying the full amount due or to file bankruptcy. Yes, you can file bankruptcy to save your house. Your case must be filed within 10 days from the sale so time is of the essence.

If this is a plan you are considering, then before you begin this process, be better prepared by talking to a bankruptcy attorney before your sales date.

To many, the thought of bankruptcy is a scary thought, but we will show you how bankruptcy can be a tool for you to use, similar to the alarm systems and insurance policies you buy, to protect your home and family. Keep copies of all mailing from your bank or mortgage company and contact our bankruptcy practice immediately. We are here to help.

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE WAS PREPARED BY SODOMA LAW, P.C. AND IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT, IN ANY WAY, CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE.

Sodoma Law Supports Union Symphony Society

2013-02-14T18:12:48+00:00

On Saturday, February 9, 2013, Sodoma Law was proud to support the Valentine Gala at the Monroe Country Club for the Union Symphony Society. Attorney Penelope Hefner was the event chair and was thrilled with the huge success the evening of dining and dancing brought to the Union Symphony and to the community. For more information, email info@sodomalaw.com.

Attorneys Deb Dilman and Nicole Sodoma - Legal Elite 2013

2013-02-13T19:28:15+00:00

Congrats to Deborah Dilman and Nicole Sodoma for being named Legal Elite by Business North Carolina Magazine for 2013. Business North Carolina Magazine selects the best lawyers as identified by their peers. More than 20,000 active members of the North Carolina State Bar voted for those they rated best in 14 areas of practice. The select group of winners represents a little more than 3% of the state’s top lawyers. Congratulations again to Deb and Nicole for their achievement!

Attorneys Nicole Sodoma and Kary Watson - Super Lawyers 2013

2013-02-05T00:22:51+00:00

Congratulations to attorneys Nicole Sodoma and Kary Watson for being selected by Super Lawyers for 2013 for their family law practices. Super Lawyers is a rating service of outstanding lawyers who have attained a high degree of peer recognition, meet ethical standards, and have demonstrated professional achievement in their area of practice. The selection includes research, peer nominations and evaluations. Congratulations again to Nicole and Kary!

Welcome Attorney Seth Glazer!

2013-01-29T19:15:38+00:00

Sodoma Law is proud to announce that attorney Seth A. Glazer has joined the firm and its Family Law practice group. Seth, a native of Charlotte and graduate of University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, has been practicing family law primarily and is excited about his transition to Sodoma Law. Welcome Seth! To learn more, go to http://www.sodomalaw.com/who/seth-a-glazer/12/

Sodoma Law Early Closing

2013-01-25T20:40:21+00:00

Due to inclement weater, Sodoma Law has closed early on Friday, January 25, 2013. Travel Safe and Stay Warm!

New Year, New Budget

2013-01-23T15:03:04+00:00

So you have your first paycheck of the new year, this year will be different right? You decided to save more, spend less and you are doing great, no morning lattes at that expensive coffee shop and of course you are packing your lunch everyday. Let’s be honest -you are sipping on a latte right now at your favorite coffee joint and your lunch never made it out of your fridge at home. It is okay, no worries, most of the people sitting around you gave up their resolutions last week and the others really never started.

The good news is that resolving to save more and spend less is not really about your latte or your lunch, it is about knowing how far your paycheck stretches and being mindful about how and where you spend money. Even if you spent last weekend and your paycheck at the mall, you can still make 2013 the year you save more and spend less. It is not to late to start or restart your resolution and it is not as hard as you may think, in fact it can be broke down into just a few steps.

First, take a good look at your paycheck. What is coming out of your paycheck? How often are you paid? What is that net figure that you deposited? In the age of direct deposit, it is easy to go months without looking at a pay stub. Do not fall into that trap. For those of you looking at the first pay stub of 2013, there will be a surprise of a few missing dollars from your net pay. You can thank Congress for not extending the payroll tax cut, but nevertheless, this is the new amount of your take home pay. (For example, if you are paid on the 15th and the 30th and the figure that goes into the bank every month is $1200, then you have $2400 of net income (take home pay) to use every month.) You have to figure out exactly what you bring home every month in order to determine how much you have to spend every month. If your pay varies because of shift work or hours, then look at last year’s pay and take the average of your lowest four months and subtract about 2%, as a rough estimate of your average net pay.

Second, add up your mortgage or rent, car payment, average utilities, cable, mobile phone and insurance policy premiums. These are expenses that should stay about the same every month. Depending on how you cool and heat your home, some of your utility bills may vary, but generally one replaces the other. Don’t panic if you have no idea what the average of these items are for your home, call your utility company to ask your average. Many utility companies actually provide websites where you can review your usage, while others provide this information on your monthly statements. If you have children, now is also the time to add in daycare or childcare needs you use for work. Lastly, add up only the average amount of gas you use to get back and forth to work and your children’s daycare/school, if applicable. Once you have determined this figure, subtract this amount from your monthly net or take home income.

This amount is considered your disposable income. In reality, this is the only money you can work with for your budget. In some cases, you may be able to cut down on your utilities and other “fixed” bills, but the savings in most cases is only a few hundred dollars a year and not usually enough to make a difference in your overall finances. Before you turn off the air conditioner or cut your cable, first evaluate where your disposable income is going every month, you may still be able to watch your favorite TV programs and save money.

Using the figure of $2400.00 from the example in step one above, let’s just say that you use $1600.00 for fixed examples leaving only $800.00 for disposable income. This is the amount you need to use to determine whether or not you can have a latte every day, just one a week or if perhaps you need to just fix your coffee at home. It is also from this amount that you need to follow the old slogan of pay yourself first. But, wait! We have not budgeted for food, toiletries, doctor visits, pet and child expenses, clothing, and of course the payments on your credit cards. Unfortunately, this is where things get tricky for a single healthy person with no credit card debt. A disposable income of $800.00 could provide for more than a few days of lattes and at least a hundred dollars or more for their saving account, but for someone who has some credit card debt this number starts to shrink.

If you add in a car repair, a sick child or even an unexpected vet bill this number starts to feel like you are working paycheck to paycheck, or worse, that you are spending next month’s income and therefore relying on credit cards or pay day loans to make it until your next paycheck. This is where everyday budgeting can turn into life-changing decisions.

If you follow the steps above and your leftover number is not realistic or if you feel like there is no way that you could ever pay off your credit card debt even if you never used a credit card again or even if you tried to cut your fixed expenses, you should explore bankruptcy as a budgeting tool.

Bankruptcy and credit counseling are actually powerful budgeting tools. If your budget, without the credit card debt, is otherwise manageable, then explore how bankruptcy can really change your life by reducing or eliminating your debt.

Imagine being able to save the money you now spend on credit card bills. This money can protect you from being forced to use credit cards in the future for those unexpected bills, such as the emergency car repair or unexpected vet bill, not to mention these funds over time can provide a cushion should you ever lose a job or become sick and need to take time off work. For some, even the cost of bankruptcy many not fit into their current budget, but it is important to note that most folks can, with planning help from their bankruptcy attorney, can afford bankruptcy.

Our firm is committed to helping you evaluate your budget and if necessary helping you understand and afford the bankruptcy process.

Don\'t give up on your financial resolutions. Take control of your paycheck, your expenses and more importantly your life. For those that have already eliminated their debt through bankruptcy and are still concerned... don’t be. Ask for assistance again as sometimes it just takes a second pair of eyes and hands to help you go through your current bills and figure out where to start.

Regardless of whether you are just looking to save a little money or if you really feel like you are living paycheck to paycheck, understand how to budget by understanding your finances. Once you understand what money you have, your commitment to staying on budget becomes easier and you can finish your latte confidently.

For more information on our bankruptcy practice, contact us at info@sodomalaw.com.

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE WAS PREPARED BY SODOMA LAW, P.C. AND IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT, IN ANY WAY, CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE.

What is Common Law Marriage?

2013-01-10T15:41:20+00:00

Common Law Marriage is not recognized in North Carolina; however, �if the acts alleged to have created it took place in a state in which such a marriage is valid� North Carolina will recognize the marriage. State v. Alford, 298 N.C. 465, 473, 259 S.E.2d 242, 247 (1979). Our neighbor, South Carolina, recognizes common law marriage. In South Carolina, when two (2) parties have a present intent to enter into a marriage contract, a common law marriage is formed. Barker v. Baker 330 S.C. 361, 370, 499 S.E.2d 503, 508 (Ct. App. 1998). Also, there must be a mutual agreement between the parties to become husband and wife. Johnson v. Johnson, 235 S.C. 542, 550, 112 S.E.2d 647, 651 (1960). The issue of whether North Carolina would recognize a common law marriage from out-of-state has recently been brought to the North Carolina Court of Appeals. On December 4, 2012, the North Carolina Court of Appeals heard an appeal of an order entered in Iredell County District Court in Garrett v. Burris. In that case, the couple had lived in Texas before moving to North Carolina. Texas and South Carolina define common law marriage similarly. The couple never had a formal ceremony, but they referred to each other as husband and wife and bought rings to symbolize their marriage. The North Carolina Court of Appeals upheld the trial court�s order which denied the claim for absolute divorce. One of the main factors which led to the Court�s decision was that the couple referred to themselves as unmarried when they executed formal documents (deed, Release of Lien, etc.). North Carolina focuses on factual details of each specific case to figure out whether it will recognize an out-of-state common law marriage. If you, or someone you know, has questions regarding whether North Carolina would recognize their common law marriage, contact an attorney at Sodoma Law, P.C. for answers. DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE WAS PREPARED BY SODOMA LAW, P.C. AND IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT, IN ANY WAY, CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE.

Happy New Year from Sodoma Law

2012-12-31T13:42:02+00:00

Our offices will be closing at 12 Noon on Monday, December 31, 2012. We will re-open at 8:30 AM on Wednesday, January 2, 2013.

Happy New Year from Sodoma Law!

Happy Holidays from Sodoma Law!

2012-12-21T18:33:40+00:00

Our offices will be closed on Monday, December 24, 2012 and Tuesday, December 25, 2012. Wishing you a very happy holiday!

Deb Dilman named Secretary of the Charlotte Women\'s Bar for 2013

2012-12-19T17:50:28+00:00

Congratulations to Deb Dilman who was named Secretary of the Charlotte Women\'s Bar for 2013. Deb has previously served as a Board Member and Programs Chairperson.

The Charlotte Women\'s Bar is the Charlotte Chapter of the North Carolina Association of Women Attorneys. It was formed in 2004 to provide its membership a unique and personally supportive professional network. For more information, check out ncawa.org/cwb or email us at info@sodomalaw.com

Sodoma Law Participates in BLOC-N-BOWL Fundraiser

2012-12-09T00:35:04+00:00

On Saturday, December 8, 2012, Sodoma Law teamed with the Business Leaders of Charlotte in the Annual BLOC-N-BOWL bowling tournament. All pledged their support and donations for the Wounded Warriors. Thank you to Sodoma Law and the other teams who participated in this wonderful holiday event.

Congrats to Sodoma Law!

2012-11-14T21:57:04+00:00

On Friday November 9, 2012, Sodoma Law was honored by the Charlotte Business Journal as 1 of 59 businesses selected as a 2012 Best Places to Work. Several of the firm\'s employees were at the event to celebrate the special occasion.

The honorees are all being featured in a special report in the November 16, 2012 Charlotte Business Journal print edition. Be sure to pick up a copy.

Congratulations to Sodoma Law and its team for being recognized as a 2012 Best Place to Work!

Have you voted for Kary Watson?

2012-10-29T20:59:57+00:00

Did you know Sodoma Law\'s own Kary Watson is running for District Court Judge in Mecklenburg County? Early voting has begun. Find out more about Kary at sodomalaw.com or check out ElectKaryWatson.com. Good Luck Kary!

Sodoma Law helps Historic Charlotte

2012-10-11T21:32:29+00:00

Sodoma Law was proud to sponsor Historic Charlotte\'s 12th Annual Fundraiser "Blast for the Past" on Wednesday, October 10, 2012. As the firm is located in one of the most historic and beautiful homes in Charlotte, the Walter Brem House, participating in Historic Charlotte was an honor. Originally built in 1902, the Walter Brem House still exhibits the grandeur of the fine Colonial Revival homes that were built at the turn of the century. As one of Charlotte\'s first examples of this style, the home was originally designed by C.C. Hook, a prominent Charlotte architect. C.C. Hook also designed other notable locations such as the Duke Mansion and Charlotte City Hall.

Sodoma Law voted CBJ Best Places to Work

2012-10-09T14:01:37+00:00

Congratulations to Sodoma Law for being honored by the Charlotte Business Journal\'s 2012 Best Places to Work. Sodoma Law was one of fifty-nine companies in the Charlotte region to be selected.

The Charlotte Business Journal will recognize all honorees during the November 9, 2012 awards luncheon at the Charlotte Convention Center. Honorees also will be featured in a special report in the November 16, 2012 print edition.

Welcome Attorney Penelope Hefner!

2012-09-28T21:00:12+00:00

Sodoma Law is proud to announce that attorney Penelope L. Hefner has joined the firm and its family law practice group. Penny has practiced family law for several years and her passion and energy is a wonderful addition. Welcome Penny!

Fighting for Women with Fashion

2012-09-21T15:05:10+00:00

A fashion show presented by Dillard’s, hosted by the Foundation for the Carolinas, and coordinated by the Charlotte Women’s Bar and the Women’s Physician Section of Mecklenburg County Medical Society, spent the summer raising funds to support United Family Services efforts to construct a new Domestic Violence Shelter.

Our efforts culminated with the event, catered by Something Classic, on Tuesday, September 18, 2012. One hundred percent of the ticket sales were donated directly to United Family Services. Additionally, raw figures suggest that the event raised substantially more money than it did last year and the two groups will likely be honored for their efforts by having a room at the new shelter named in their honor. Our firm, along with many others, contributed funds and in-kind items for a silent auction, all to benefit the shelter.

The models for the show were lawyers and physicians! Including our own Deb Dilman! Everyone who attended had a great time while also raising funds for such an important local cause. Check out the pictures on the Fighting for Women with Fashion Facebook page and look for details for the third annual event in the fall of 2013! Thanks to everyone who helped make this 2^nd annual event such a success.

Save the Date: Pierce\'s Project

2012-09-05T20:17:20+00:00

On Saturday, September 22, 2012, from 4pm to 7pm, join in the first annual Pierce\'s Project at Christ the King Lutheran Church located at 13501 South Tryon Street in Charlotte. Pierce\'s Project is a part of the Presbyterian Healthcare Foundation that exists to provide support to families of extremely premature infants at both the Hemby and Levine Neonatal Intensive Care Units. There will be fun for everyone to include concessions, crafts, community vendors, inflatable moonbounces and more. The cost is $5 and everyone can attend. Children under 2 are free. Come help raise awareness and money and to offer your support to the families of premature or sick infants in the Charlotte area. For more information, check out https://www.facebook.com/piercesproject.

Attorney Laura C. Manfreda to Speak at Conference

2012-09-04T20:59:33+00:00

Attorney Laura C. Manfreda has been chosen to speak at North Carolina Advocates for Justice Fall Paralegal Conference in Asheville, North Carolina on October 19, 2012. This "Mountain Magic" weekend includes a seminar designed specifically for paralegals, legal assistants and support staff that provided 6.0 continuing education credits (to include 1.0 hour of ethics). Learn about preparing for trial from a paralegal\'s perspective, consumer rights, and remedies regarding credit reporting, the paperless office, developing damages in catastrophic injury cases and a view from a former paralegal. Plus, a discussion on the ethical considerations for paralegals. For more information, email info@sodomalaw.com.

Trusts for Your Estate Plan

2012-08-30T22:32:50+00:00

Trusts. It used to be trusts were used only by the extremely wealthy. We’ve probably all used the term ‘trust-fund baby’ in some way, shape or form to describe that person who seemed to have it all, no worries, no need to work, always with a pocketful of money because daddy’s trust fund took care of everything. While that may have been the case fifty years ago, trusts are becoming an increasingly popular part of estate planning for the wealthy and middle-class alike. Indeed, more and more people of moderate means are using trusts for all the benefits they provide over an estate plan centered around a Will. Trusts don’t require probate so at your death, the trust assets can be relatively easy to control and disburse. Trusts are not part of the public record like a probated or recorded will so nosy neighbors or parties with bad intentions cannot discover the extent of your estate and to whom it has been left. When properly funded, trust property is not subject to administration, and since administration typically involves a ‘probate tax’, the assets in the trust can be passed down without incurring this tax. In North Carolina, the probate tax can be as much as $6,000.00, which is generally far more than the cost of preparing a trust with an attorney. Trusts can allow the grantor or settlor (the person creating the trust) to maintain control over the trust property. Thus there are no additional forms to create, no additional tax forms to file. All income for property in the trust is reported and taxed on the grantor’s personal income tax return. This is very important. While trusts can and do serve all the above purposes, it should be noted that, generally, trusts by themselves do not act to reduce or defer taxes, and trusts by themselves do not provide asset protection. If tax reduction or deferral, or asset protection is an important consideration, there may be other alternatives involving trusts that can serve those purposes.

We will have more about trusts, generally and specifically, in future postings. If you have questions about creating a trust or if you have questions about a trust that has already been created, the Estate Planning Attorneys at Sodoma Law are happy to help.

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION ON THIS WEBSITE WAS PREPARED BY SODOMA LAW, P.C. AND IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT IN ANY WAY CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE.

YOUR parents are going to raise our kids?

2012-08-28T22:05:20+00:00

“My parents can raise the kids; no your parents; no my parents…” Estate planning issues are faced by people in all walks of life. Even those with more than adequate resources may have issues when crafting their plan. In recent years, the deaths of several prominent people have demonstrated what to do and what not to do in estate planning. For those of us who grew up in the 80s and 90s, the recent death of Adam Yauch demonstrates a compelling issue for all parents with minor children – who should be our child’s guardian.

While the best situation would be for a parent to continue to raise a child, circumstances can prevent that. A surviving parent is the obvious choice to continue raising the child. But when both parents pass away, the court may be faced with guardianship appointments from two wills that are not identical. This can result from strong differences of opinion between parents as to who should raise the child(ren). In the case of Adam Yauch (of Beastie Boys fame), the minor child in question was survived by her mother, but had that not been the case, Mr. Yauch’s will contained an odd provision regarding her guardianship. If he died in an odd numbered year, his will appointed his wife’s parents as guardian; if he died in an even-numbered year, the will appointed his parents. While not the best choice for a guardianship provision, Mr. Yauch choice demonstrates that some amount of thought went into his decision. Whatever the reason for his alternative-year guardianship appointments, such decisions are best made in advance, by the parents, when their wishes can be expressed. If you’re facing a decision about naming a guardian in your will, want to change a guardian already named, or need to create a will to name a guardian for your minor child(ren), we can help. Our Estate Planning practice can go over the pros and cons of the types of choices you’ll need to make, and give you the guidance you need.

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION ON THIS WEBSITE WAS PREPARED BY SODOMA LAW, P.C. AND IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT IN ANY WAY CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE.

Sodoma Law Welcomes Kary C. Watson

2012-08-23T20:39:39+00:00

Sodoma Law is proud to announce that attorney Kary C. Watson has joined the firm. Kary has practiced exclusively family law for over ten years, appearing in District Court, Superior Court, the North Carolina Court of Appeals and the Supreme Court of North Carolina. Kary is a Certified Family Law Specialist by the North Carolina State Bar Board of Legal Specialization. Please join us in welcoming attorney Kary C. Watson.

For more information, see http://www.sodomalaw.com/who/kary-c-watson/10/

Do-It-Yourself Estate Planning?

2012-08-21T00:30:25+00:00

Considering Do-It-Yourself Estate Planning? It is not something I would recommend for anyone considering whether they need a will. Among the reasons why you might want to consider an attorney, rather than a do-it-yourself estate plan are: estate planning attorneys have special expertise to draft a plan specific to your needs; estate planning attorneys can advise clients on the options (to include those you might not have considered or known) and help work through the emotional decisions such as choosing a guardian for your children; if there is a ever a dispute, an estate planning attorney would be better suited to explain the testator\'s intentions; an estate planning attorney can assist with tax issues that might not be readily known by a do-it-yourselfer; and lastly, the money saved by doing it yourself may not be nearly enough to offset the costs associated with fixing a mistake that could have easily been avoided.

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE WAS PREPARED BY SODOMA LAW, P.C. AND IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT IN ANY WAY CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE.

Should I have a Healthcare Power of Attorney or Living Will?

2012-08-16T20:48:30+00:00

Healthcare powers of attorney and advance directives are created by statute. Similar to durable powers of attorney, a healthcare power of attorney is a document in which you (the principal) designate an agent (the healthcare attorney-in-fact) to make healthcare decisions when you are incapacitated or unable to communicate those decisions on your own. Importantly, your durable power of attorney is not empowered to make healthcare decisions, and conversely, your healthcare power of attorney is not authorized to make medical decisions for you. That said, obviously if you have appointed the same person, he or she will have both powers. As broad as the powers are in a durable power of attorney, the powers of your healthcare agent as similarly as broad, although relegated to healthcare decisions. Thus, the agent can admit you to a facility, have you discharged or transferred, consent to surgical procedures, etc. It is often a good idea to name a successor agent in case your primary agent is not available.

An advance directive is more commonly known as a ‘living will’; this document describes what level of care you want to have, or have withheld, in the event you are facing an end-of-life situation. In North Carolina, the advance directive contemplates three scenarios: incurable or irreversible condition which will result in death within a relatively short period of time; unconsciousness which, to a high degree of medical certainty will never be restored; or substantial loss of cognitive ability which will not be restored. In each scenario, the principal can elect to receive the maximum treatment available; or the withholding of all treatment; or grant discretion to the healthcare agent to decide.

The healthcare power of attorney with advance directive conveys significant powers and should only be executed after reading it in its entirety and consulting with your attorney and your potential agents. If you have any questions about a healthcare power of attorney or advance directive, contact the Estate Planning attorneys at Sodoma Law today.

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE WAS PREPARED BY SODOMA LAW, P.C. AND IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT, IN ANY WAY, CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE.

What is a Durable Power of Attorney? Do I need one?

2012-08-14T22:22:02+00:00

Trusts can often be the companion piece to a will in your estate plan, but since the topic of trusts can be so broad, there will be comments posted on them at a later time. Today, I want to talk about durable powers of attorney. In its simplest form, a power of attorney is a document in which you (the principal) designate to an agent (the attorney-in-fact) the power to handle and manage affairs in the principal’s name and stead. The attorney-in-fact is a fiduciary, meaning that when he or she acts in that capacity, he or she is charged with acting not in his or her own best interest, but rather in the best interests of the principal. When the attorney-in-fact’s actions are in opposition to the best interests of the principal, the attorney-in-fact is breaching his or her fiduciary duty to the principal, and may be held liable for his or her actions.

Powers of attorney (POA) can be limited or specific, general or durable. In estate planning, we are typically dealing with general durable POA, meaning the powers conveyed are very broad (general), and the POA does not terminate when the principal becomes incompetent or loses capacity (durable).

Absent language that the POA is ‘durable’ or ‘shall survive my subsequent incapacity’, a POA is terminated or becomes void upon 1) revocation by the principal; 2) the principal’s death; or 3) the principal’s incompetency or lack of capacity. A durable POA can still be revoked by the principal, and also becomes invalid at the principal’s death, but a durable POA remains effective even if the principal loses capacity. This can be very important when the principal’s day-to-day affairs (like simply paying the bills) need to be addressed.

Two other comments on durable POAs: First, the powers designated to the attorney-in-fact are often very broad and wide-ranging so it is very important for you to understand the breadth and scope of the authority you are giving. Some durable POAs include language allowing the attorney-in-fact to make gifts, create trusts, or even change beneficiary designations. This is an area that can be easily be abused by the attorney-in-fact which is one reason why the choice you make is so important. Second, before a third party (like a bank or broker) will rely on a durable POA or allow the attorney-in-fact to act, the durable POA will need to be recorded in the Register of Deeds of the county where the principal resides, and possibly in any other county where the principal owns property. This requirement puts other third parties on notice that the attorney-in-fact has the legal right to act in the principal’s name. However, once a durable POA is recorded, there are specific statutory requirements that have to be met in order to revoke or change the POA which include giving notice to the attorney-in-fact being removed, as well as recording a revocation. Because of these extra steps, it is sometimes advisable to wait to record your durable POA until it is necessary, i.e. when the principal can no longer act in his or her own name. This is permitted, and recording a durable POA even after the principal has become incompetent or lost capacity is acceptable. It should be noted that if the principal does suffer incapacity and the original POA cannot be located, the principal would no longer have the ability to create a new document. The balancing of the revocation process for a recorded POA vs. the possibility of losing an original document and the principal no longer have the capacity to execute a new document must be weighed when the question to record or not to record is addressed.

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE WAS PREPARED BY SODOMA LAW, P.C. AND IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT, IN ANY WAY, CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE.

Attorney Laura C. Manfreda Chosen to Serve for BLI

2012-08-14T01:10:46+00:00

Congratulations to attorney Laura C. Manfreda who was recently chosen to serve on the Bar Leadership Institute Committee, a joint Mecklenburg County Bar and Mecklenburg Bar Foundation committee, for the 2012-2013 term. BLI encourages lawyers in the development of their professional and leadership skills within the Bar, Foundation and legal profession. Additional information is available at www.meckbar.org.

What should be in your Will?

2012-08-10T14:48:34+00:00

Your will is often the starting point of an estate plan. Depending on where you are in life, your will can address who will receive the property in your estate, who will care for your minor children, and who should be responsible for administering your estate - that is collecting your assets, paying your debts and expenses, and then distributing the remaining assets to your named beneficiaries.

Your position in life will determine the type of will you need, as well as the most important parts of the will. Every will should contain the provisions directing how and to whom your estate is to be distributed. For most parents with minor children, the two most important provisions in a will are 1) who will take care of my children and 2) how will my children’s inheritance be managed so it can best benefit my children.

The person you name in your will to care for your minor children is called the ‘guardian of the person’. A ‘guardian of the person’ is charged with caring for and raising your minor children - they will raise your children, provide a place to live, and provide necessaries. Naming a guardian of the person for a minor child in your will is not binding on the Court, although your choice is considered paramount in the Court’s decision. The Court is always charged with doing what is in ‘the best interest of the child’; however, unless your named guardian has serious and compelling flaws that would make him or her unfit to care for a minor child, your choice of guardian will be given strong consideration.

Maybe not as important as the choice for raising the minor child, but still very important, is the choice of who will manage an estate for the benefit of the minor child. Absent any specific language, a gift in a will to a minor child will most normally result in the appointment of a ‘guardian of the estate’. The ‘guardian of the estate’ is appointed by the Court, through a guardianship proceeding. Once a guardian of the estate is appointed, that person is charged with using the assets in his or her control only for the benefit of the minor child, although expenses associated with the guardianship process can be charged against those assets. A guardian of the estate will also be required to post a bond to the Court, like an insurance policy, to protect the minor from waste or mismanagement (or worse) of the assets. Annual accountings, documentation of expenses (and income), yearly reconciliations and Court oversight are all required. Moreover, the minor child will be entitled to his or her share of the assets, without any further supervision, on his or her 18^th birthday. This is not a ‘bad’ option, but estate planning can provide a better solution.

The better solution is in the form of a trust arrangement, whether testamentary or inter vivos. A testamentary trust is simply a trust included within your will. A testamentary trust only comes into existence when the will is administered, i.e. at your death. An inter vivos trust, or living trust, is actually created and in existence while you are alive. In either case, the person you select to administer, manage and carry-out the trust’s terms is called the Trustee. With a trust arrangement in place, management of your assets for the benefit of minor children is handled by the Trustee. While court supervision is typically not required, Trustees must adhere to certain statutory guidelines applicable to ‘fiduciaries’. Fiduciaries are charged with acting in ways not for their own benefit, but instead for the benefit of someone else. Thus a trustee is charged with managing and handling trust assets not for his or her own benefit, but instead for the benefit of named beneficiaries, i.e. the minor children. Moreover, trustees are guided by the terms of the trust agreement, not the Court or the General Statutes. Thus, trust beneficiaries, in most instances, are not required to receive their inheritances at statutory ages, but rather at the ages you choose. Even if your children are no longer minors, a trust arrangement can be beneficial. Trust agreements can provide protection for adult children who may not be as financially savvy as expected, have creditor issues, or who have made poor marriage choices.

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE WAS PREPARED BY SODOMA LAW, P.C. AND IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT, IN ANY WAY, CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE.

What is Estate Planning?

2012-08-08T12:46:53+00:00

Estate planning is most-often thought about in terms of a single document, a will, which identifies to whom a person wants his or her property distributed at death. However, such a definition does not truly encompass the idea of Estate Planning. Rather, estate planning is the total process of arranging your affairs in such a way that all your wishes and needs can be carried out. Thus, a good estate plan accounts for not only your intended distributions at death, but also anticipates how your own needs will be addressed if you suffer an injury or illness that leaves you unable to manage your own affairs. A good analogy is the distinction between life insurance and disability insurance. Life insurance provides a payment at your death; similarly, a Will provides a map for how your property is to be divided at your death. Disability insurance replaces income when you cannot work. A life insurance policy with a large death benefit will be little use to your family if you are still alive, but lack the capacity to work. Similarly, a Will can provide a great roadmap, but without a total plan to address lifetime needs, your estate may still suffer. Estate planning is comprehensive planning.

The point of this analogy is that Estate Planning is not just the preparation of a will. Instead, Estate Planning requires a total analysis of your needs, both during life and after death. As this blog progresses, we’ll be discussing the various parts of a good estate plan: wills, trusts, powers of attorney, advance directives. Individual circumstances will dictate a person’s specific needs; however, some combination of these documents should be considered whenever you consider your own Estate Plan.

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE WAS PREPARED BY SODOMA LAW, P.C. AND IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT, IN ANY WAY, CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE.

Sodoma Law Estate Planning BLOG

2012-08-06T15:09:58+00:00

Welcome to the Sodoma Law Estate Planning Law Blog! In addition to our regular posts, Sodoma Law will begin its first of what will be a series of regular postings and updates on all aspects of Estate Practice – from planning to administration. I hope you’ll take a few moments to read through some of our posts, and that you’ll come back to see our new posts. We’ll address the basics of estate planning, changes in the law that affect estate planning and practice, best practices for estate plans, what not to do, taxes, and hopefully add a touch of humor from time to time.

If you have additional questions or comments, wish to request more information or would like to discuss your own estate planning needs, please contact us at 704.442.0000, info@sodomalaw.com, or David DuFault at ddufault@sodomalaw.com.

Attorney Deb Dilman to Serve on BLI

2012-07-20T17:54:45+00:00

Congratulations to attorney Deb Dilman who has been asked to serve on the Bar Leadership Institute Committee by Bar President Robert E. Harrington for a three year term. This appointment reflects Ms. Dilman’s loyalty and allegiance not only to the Mecklenburg County Bar but also to the profession of law. Thank you Ms. Dilman for your service and commitment.

Sodoma Law to Host DVA Charlotte

2012-07-09T17:44:54+00:00

On Wednesday, July 18, 2012, Sodoma Law will host a DVA Charlotte reception to engage Charlotte area women with the much anticipated Democratic National Convention. DVA Charlotte is non-partisan coalition of women acting as Donors, Volunteers and Ambassadors to promote the greater good of the community in support of the 2012 Convention Host Committee. At the reception, DVA hopes to share with you opportunities for leadership, service, and education. For more information, email info@sodomalaw.com or go to CharlotteIn2012.com/DVA.

July 4th Holiday

2012-07-04T12:45:19+00:00

Sodoma Law, P.C. will be closed on July 4, 2012. We will re-open on Thursday, July 5, 2012 at 8:30 am. Happy July 4th!

Annual Family Court Update

2012-06-26T14:00:37+00:00

On Friday, June 29, 2012, the Family Law Section of the Mecklenburg County Bar and the Domestic Court Bar Committee will present the Annual Domestic Court Update. Participants will hear from local Family Law Judges, the Domestic Bar Scheduling Subcommittee, the Local Rules Subcommittee, the Family Court Administrator\'s Office as well as Parenting Coordinators. For more information, email info@sodomalaw.com.

Nicole Sodoma presents at Mecklenburg County Bar

2012-06-20T18:39:13+00:00

Recently, Nicole Sodoma presented at the Mecklenburg County Bar for Continuing Legal Education. During this three hour program, Ms. Sodoma provided personal and firm strategies to help attorneys work with clients who are in need of advice and reassurance during difficult times. For more information, contact info@sodomalaw.com.

Reflections from the Bench

2012-06-13T14:53:08+00:00

On June 8, 2012, attorney Misty Hardison attended Reflections from the Bench. Chief Judge David Sentelle and Justice Clarence Thomas presented on their Judicial Careers to the Federalist Society, Charlotte Lawyers Chapter. Chief Judge Sentelle is a native of North Carolina and was a colleague of then-Judge Thomas on the D.C. Circuit before Thomas’s elevation to the Supreme Court. For more information, email us info@sodomalaw.com.

Welcome Attorneys David DuFault and Jenny Holman

2012-06-09T17:47:23+00:00

Sodoma Law is proud to announce attorneys David T. DuFault and Jenny P. Holman have joined the firm. David is continuing his practice in the areas of Trusts & Estates as well as Corporate & Business Law. Jenny is continuing her practice in the area of bankruptcy.

To learn more, go to http://www.sodomalaw.com/who/david-t-dufault/9/ and http://www.sodomalaw.com/who/jenny-p-holman/8/.

Please join us in welcoming both David and Jenny to Sodoma Law!

Attorney Deb Dilman Nominated President

2012-06-06T16:08:13+00:00

For the 2012-2013 term, Ms. Dilman has been nominated as the President of the Mecklenburg County Collaborative Family Law Group. For more information, go to www.mecklenburgcollaborative.org. Both Ms. Dilman and Ms. Sodoma are certified Collaborative Law Attorneys. Did you know that when you decide to choose Collaborative Law, you are deciding on a no-court alternative to separation and divorce.

For more information, check out http://www.sodomalaw.com/services/collaborative-family-law/6/.

Congratulations Ms. Dilman in your nomination!

Memorial Day 2012

2012-05-25T20:11:50+00:00

In observance of the Memorial Day Holiday, Sodoma Law will be closed on Monday, May 28, 2012. We will re-open on Tuesday May 29, 2012 at 8:30 am. Remember our Veterans and have a safe and happy holiday. Thank you.

Baby Bash!

2012-05-02T21:26:30+00:00

Support Jamie and Jake Pursley in their path to parenthood on May 10, 2012! For more information, go to www.iheartbabies.org.

Interested in learning more about surrogacy, ask one of our attorneys in A.R.T. at Sodoma Law.

Femfessionals Supports Girls On The Run

2012-04-18T19:48:48+00:00

On Thursday, April 18, 2012, the Charlotte Chapter of Femfessionals will be screening Miss Representation at the Mint Museum. All proceeds will benefit Girls on the Run. Sodoma Law is proud to sponsor this event. The documentary by Jennifer Siebel Newsom premiered at the 2011 Sundance Film Festival and has received accolades for its success. The film is a perfect alignment with Femfessionals which is known for its "Innovatively Connecting & Promoting Ambitious Women". For more information, go to www.femfessionals.com.

Attorney Misty Hardison - Ask a Lawyer

2012-04-11T15:10:50+00:00

Thank you attorney Misty Hardison of Sodoma Law, P.C. for her participation at the Ask-A-Lawyer Program at the SelfServe Center in the Mecklenburg County Courthouse. During the week of April 9, 2012, the SelfServe Center has expanded its menu of services to the community by extending its hours of operation, offering free walk-in legal consultations and use of ICAN legal document software at no cost. Thank you Ms. Hardison for your committment to the community and volunteering your time and experience.

Evening at the Courthouse!

2012-04-04T03:32:28+00:00

On May 8, 2012, Justice Initiatives will host its 6th Annual Evening at the Courthouse. Save the date! Registrants are limited. For more information, go to www.justiceinitiatives.org or ask at info@sodomalaw.com.

History in the Making

2012-03-23T20:17:41+00:00

Congratulations to Board Member and Co-Chair Deb Dilman and the Charlotte Women\'s Bar for hosting History in the Making at the Levine Museum of the New South. In partnership with the Mecklenburg County Bar, the Honorable Shirley L. Fulton, the Honorable Rickey McKoy-Mitchell, Pamela Silverman, Jennifer Schenk and Dr. Mary H. Howerton presented an exciting lecture with a reception that followed.

Charlotte Walk to Cure Diabetes

2012-03-21T01:44:58+00:00

Join more than 6,500 walkers who will walk together on April 21, 2012 in Charlotte\'s Walk to Cure Diabetes. The walk begins at 8:30 at Carowinds. Register now at www.walk.jdrf.org!

Save Family Court Campaign

2012-03-12T15:28:48+00:00

Did you know that there was a chance that the legislature could eliminate funding for North Carolina\'s Family Courts? On May 16, 2012, the legislative session will begin and will move very quickly on this issue. Its time to advocate! Unless the budget is restored, 44% of all domestic filings in North Carolina will be negatively impacted. Family Courts exist in 13 judicial districts covering 22 counties (including Mecklenburg) in North Carolina. In essence, 44% of all domestic cases filed in North Carolina are managed by Family Court personnel. Restoration of Family Court funding is critical. Without it, the median age of cases could jump from 90 days to 272 days. Without it, the percentage of cases pending over one year could jump from 19.8% to 43.6%. On these merits alone, this program should survive; however, with an uncertain state budget, advocacy is needed. For more information or to volunteer, contact our Mecklenburg County\'s Trial Court Administrator\'s Office.

(Information obtained from Mecklenburg Juvenile & Family Court Today - Issue dated March 2012)

Attorney Deb Dilman Volunteers at Justice 4 ALL

2012-03-05T13:05:16+00:00

On Friday, March 2, 2012,the Justice 4 ALL Campaign celebrated its fifth anniversary in North Carolina. North Carolina lawyers, like Ms. Dilman, joined forces to take calls from the public at seven call centers throughout North Carolina. Thank you to Ms. Dilman and those who participated. Thousands of people were helped in a single day as a result of your dedication and hard work.

Centennial Gala

2012-02-17T17:44:25+00:00

Sodoma Law celebrated Mecklenburg County Bar\'s one hundred year anniversary at the Westin Hotel in Charlotte on Thursday, February 16, 2012. This formal evening featured former Solicitor General of the United States Walter E. Dellinger III, an entertaining performance by the Bar Revue, dinner, drinks, and dancing. This historic celebration can only happen once in a lifetime and Sodoma Law was proud to be a part of this memorable event.

IRS Tax Tip 2012 for Name Changes

2012-02-10T00:04:32+00:00

Per the IRS Tax Tip 2012-23, the following are five tips for recently married or divorced taxpayers with a Name Change:

1. If you took your spouse’s last name (or if you hyphenated your last names), then you may run into complications if you don’t notify the Social Security Administration. When newlyweds file a tax return using their new last names, IRS computers can’t match the new name with their Social Security number.

2. If you recently divorced and changed back to your previous last name, then you’ll also need to notify the SSA of this name change.

3. Informing the Social Security Administration of a name change is easy. Simply file a Form SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card, at your local Social Security Administration office or by mail and provide a recently issued document as proof of your legal name change.

4. Form SS-5 is available on SSA’s website at http://www.socialsecurity.gov/, by calling 800-772-1213 or at local offices. Your new card will have the same number as your previous card, but will show your new name.

5. If you adopted your spouse’s children after getting married and their names changed, then you\'ll need to update their names with the Social Security Administration too. For adopted children without SSNs, parents can apply for an Adoption Taxpayer Identification Number – or ATIN – by filing Form W-7A, Application for Taxpayer Identification Number for Pending U.S. Adoptions with the IRS. The ATIN is a temporary number used in place of an SSN on the tax return. Form W-7A is available on the IRS.gov website or by calling 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).

Again, please note that a mismatch between the name shown on your tax return and the SSA records can result in problems in the processing of your return and may even delay your refund.

This information provided to you from the Internal Revenue Service e-mail service mailing list. For more information, see www.irs.gov.

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE WAS PREPARED BY SODOMA LAW, P.C. AND IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT, IN ANY WAY, CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE.

Nicole Sodoma named Super Lawyer 2012

2012-01-26T18:58:28+00:00

Congratulations to Nicole Sodoma for being named one of the top 100 Super Lawyers in North Carolina for 2012. Super Lawyers is a rating service of outstanding lawyers who have attained a high-degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The selection process is multi-phased and includes independent research, peer nominations and peer evaluations. Congratulations again to Ms. Sodoma!

Celebrating 100 Years

2012-01-21T18:19:51+00:00

Sodoma Law joined the Mecklenburg County Bar in celebrating its Centennial Anniversary this week. Beginning with the exhibit at the Levine Museum of the New South, the month\'s celebrations are expected to be the most exciting events the bar has ever hosted. The journey from one lone lawyer in a colonial town to more than 4,400 lawyers in 2012 has been remarkable. Not only were the attorneys of Sodoma Law proud to participate in the week\'s kick-off festivities, but each is proud to be a member of the Mecklenburg County Bar and legal community.

Congratulations MCB!

For more information, check out: http://www.meckbar.org/newsevents/news_detail.cfm?cont_id=6859

Steve\'s Coats for Kids Success!

2012-01-14T01:15:33+00:00

Attorneys Nadia Margherio and Nicole Sodoma were proud to participate and collect new and gently worn coats for "Steve\'s Coats for Kids" . Chief Meteorologist Steve Udelson at WSOC, in partnership with Crisis Assistance Ministries, sponsored this coat drive by collecting coats to keep local kids warm this winter. Thanks to all of you who delivered coats and for making a difference in our community.

Free Seminar - January 17, 2012!

2012-01-11T03:00:44+00:00

Don\'t miss the "Top Ten Mistakes to Avoid When Untying the Know" offered by Sodoma Law on January 17, 2012.

Do you regularly encounter people--whether clients, friends, family--who are considering untying the knot? Would you like to have a better understanding of the potentially devastating pitfalls people should avoid? Join attorneys at Sodoma Law on January 17 at 5:30 for a free seminar.

RSVPs preferred to bhinds@sodomalaw.com. See you there!

Help Sodoma Law Support Steve\'s Coats for Kids

2012-01-05T22:33:44+00:00

Please join us in supporting Steve\'s Coats by dropping off new or gently worn coats at our offices for children of all sizes and ages. We will be delivering the coats to WSOC on Friday, January 13, 2012. For more information, please contact info@sodomalaw.com or go to http://www.wsoctv.com/coats/index.html.

Thank you!

Finally Handling Your Estate Planning?

2012-01-04T00:45:38+00:00

Is finally getting around to estate planning among your goals for 2012? Take the first step by learning more about the various aspects of estate planning. Get more information at our website - Practice Area: Estate Planning. Let our experienced attorneys at Sodoma Law help.

Happy New Year from Sodoma Law

2011-12-31T01:20:21+00:00

Wishing you all a safe, healthy and happy New Year from Sodoma Law. Our office will be closed for the holiday on Monday, January 2, 2012 but will re-open on Tuesday, January 3, 2012 at 8:30 am. Thank you and Enjoy!

Happy Holidays from Sodoma Law!

2011-12-23T21:51:48+00:00

Our offices will be closed for the holiday and will re-open on Tuesday, December 27, 2011 at 8:30 am. Thank you. Happy Holidays!

Sodoma Law hosts Domestic Court Bar Committee Party

2011-12-17T00:18:23+00:00

Sodoma Law was honored to co-host the 7th Annual Mecklenburg County Domestic Court Bar Committee Holiday Party on Thursday, December 15, 2011. The event was a great opportunity for members of the Family Law Section and Domestic Court Bar Committee to gather together in the spirit of the holiday season. Thanks to all of the generous guests, in collaboration with the Family Court Adminstrator\'s Office, Sodoma Law was able to collect and donate unwrapped toys throughout the Charlotte community through the Salvation Army\'s Angel Tree Program.

Happy Holidays!

Thanks to Nicole Sodoma for being a \"Good Friend\"

2011-12-15T22:01:57+00:00

On Tuesday, December 13, 2011, Nicole Sodoma joined over 800 other Good Friends at the Grady Cole Center to celebrate a 25th Anniversary of the organization as well as to support its annual fundraiser. Together, in less than one hour, Good Friends raised over $120,000!

Good Friends is a diverse group of women representing different cultural, ethnic and religious backgrounds. It is a non-profit organization of women committed to raising money to provide financial assistance to individuals and families in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina. For more information, go to www.goodfriendscharlotte.us.

Attorney Deb Dilman named to the Charlotte Women\'s Bar Board

2011-12-13T15:46:56+00:00

Attorney Deb Dilman accepted the nomination to the Board of the Charlotte Women\'s Bar for a second term. At the Dilworth location of Sodoma Law, she hosted the Board\'s final meeting of 2011 and is looking forward to hosting the planning session for 2012. Congratulations Deb!

Bowling for Families in Need of Holiday Cheer!

2011-12-05T15:57:03+00:00

On Saturday, December 3, Sodoma Law teamed with the Business Leaders of Charlotte in the 7th Annual BLOC-N-BOWL bowling tournament. All pledged their support and donations for families in the Charlotte Community. With the funds collected, hundreds of holiday gifts will be purchased, wrapped and distributed to families before Christmas Day.

Thank you to Sodoma Law and the other teams who participated in this wonderful holiday event.

Child Support Calculator?

2011-12-02T15:19:03+00:00

Did you know Sodoma Law offers its own child support calculator? Whether you have primary, secondary or share joint physical custody of your children, our calculator will provide you with the support obligation that fits your circumstances. For questions, please contact one of our attorneys. You can find the child support calculator at http://www.sodomalaw.com/?section=calculator

Ronald McDonald House of Charlotte

2011-12-01T17:31:57+00:00

Attorney Laura Manfreda of Sodoma Law was proud to host the Ronald McDonald House of Charlotte\'s Young Professionals Board Holiday Party at the firm\'s Dilworth location. Ms. Manfreda is a member of the Board which supports the Ronald McDonald House in its mission of offering hope and support to families struggling with children\'s illness. For more information, see http://rmhofcharlotte.org/.

Free Seminar! Save the Date!

2011-11-28T20:27:22+00:00

Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid When Untying the Knot.

Join us on Tuesday, January 17, 2012 at 5:30 pm for a free seminar!

Avoiding some potentially devastating pitfalls can make the process of untying the knot much smoother and will ensure a better end result for you and your family. Attorneys Misty Hardison, Laura Manfreda and Larissa Stein of Sodoma Law, P.C. will be offering this free seminar at the firm\'s Dilworth location.

Please feel free to invite colleagues, friends and family that may be interested. This seminar is designed for those who would benefit professionally from having a working knowledge of the issues and the process, as well as those personally considering separation.

Light refreshments will be served. Please RSVP at 704.442.0000 or by email to bhinds@sodomalaw.com by January 13, 2012.

We look forward to seeing you soon.

Happy Thanksgiving from Sodoma Law!

2011-11-24T19:55:09+00:00

Wishing you a Happy Thanksgiving Holiday. Our office will be closed on Thursday, November 24 and Friday, November 25, 2011. Thank You!

United Family Services Domestic Violence Campaign Success!

2011-10-20T14:09:50+00:00

On Wednesday, October 19, 2011, the Charlotte Women\'s Bar and the Mecklenburg County Medical Society Women Physicians Section hosted a fall fashion presentation by Nordstrom to benefit the United Family Services\' new Domestic Violence facility in Charlotte. The event was held at the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art at the Levince Center of the Arts. The fundraiser was a huge success as coordinated by a talented committee of supporters, to include attorney Deb Dilman. It was an extraordinary evening with an amazing collaboration of women professionals in the Charlotte community.

Collaborative Law Offers Dignified Answer to Traditional Divorce

2011-10-11T01:49:42+00:00

When most people hear the words “divorce proceedings”, it conjures up scary images of impersonal court rooms and the airing of the marriage’s dirty laundry in court. Feelings of embarrassment and uncertainty are also common. However, most people are unaware that Mecklenburg County provides an alternative to the traditional adversarial divorce proceedings. This relatively new concept in the family law court systems is called collaborative law.

Just like the name states, collaborative law allows parties to work together, with their attorneys, instead of against each other. This approach allows parties to decide what will work best for their family’s needs, instead of a judge making these decisions. Many families find that there are several emotional benefits to the process. Attorneys working in a collaborative law divorce are working toward similar goals, giving respect to each side of the case, and they are trying to create solutions that work for both parties’ needs. In addition, private financial information of the parties will be kept out of public court records.

In addition to the emotional benefits for all parties involved, all discussions and decisions during a collaborative law divorce will be made outside the courtroom, meaning a lengthy and costly litigation is not needed.

Although collaborative law is still an emerging area of family law, the benefits of this dignified process have been numerous. In order to proceed with a collaborative law, clients need insure their attorney is a collaborative law certified attorney. If you feel collaborative law may be right for you and your family, please visit Mecklenburg County’s collaborative law website http://www.mecklenburgcollaborative.org/ for more information.

Attorneys Deb Dilman and Nadia Margherio Offer Live Seminar at Second Saturday

2011-09-14T18:56:25+00:00

On Saturday, September 10, 2011, attorneys Deb Dilman and Nadia Margherio participated in a Second Saturday workshop. This program is designed to help educate people who are considering un-tying the knot. Participants gain a better understanding of their legal and financial issues from our attorneys, local mediators, and financial planners in addition to receiving advice from local counselors and therapists. Thank you to Deb and Nadia for all of your efforts!

Welcome attorney Laura C. Manfreda!

2011-08-22T14:37:42+00:00

Please join us in welcoming our newest attorney at Sodoma Law, P.C. Laura C. Manfreda joined Sodoma Law, P.C. to continue her family law practice. Ms. Manfreda\'s reputation and committment to family law is an exciting addition to our firm. Please join us in welcoming her.

Choosing a Guardian for your Children

2011-08-15T18:39:07+00:00

Our incredibly busy lives make us all prone to focus primarily on needs that are immediate but not necessarily most important. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the case of parents who spend more time selecting and preparing instructions for a babysitter than selecting and preparing instructions for a guardian for their children. Babysitter issues are undoubtedly important and capture our attention because they are immediate needs. However, the babysitter will spend only a few hours with your children, and you will be only a phone call away if any questions arise. Even more important is selecting a guardian to care for your children in the event an accident leaves your children without their parents.

Despite the fact that a guardian would devote years to raising your children and make many crucial decisions about your children’s well-being, the selection of a guardian is a decision a surprising number of parents put on the back burner. Certainly no one likes to contemplate their children growing up without them, but the risk of ignoring that possibility is that, if the unthinkable happens and you have not nominated a guardian for your children, a court will have to make the decision without your input. The future of your children is simply too important to leave to the discretion of the courts when you are the one most qualified to know what is in your children’s best interests.

Consider the following steps toward making the best decision for your children.

1. Identify Your Parenting Priorities. In raising your children, what is most important to you? What do you consider to be in their best interests? Impartation of certain moral values or religious beliefs? A private school education? A large yard or safe neighborhood where they can run and play freely? A stable upbringing in the same community? Diverse life experiences? Having one parent at home or with a significant amount of flexibility and free time to devote to the children? A proactive parenting style or a relaxed parenting style? Strong encouragement of advanced education? Maintaining a certain standard of living?

2. Narrow Your List. You are an unusually fortunate parent if you have people in your life to be guardians for your children who possess all of your same priorities or are in a position to make all of your priorities a reality. So, give some serious thought to your priorities, and narrow your list down to those which are non-negotiable.

3. List Potential Guardians. Come up with as long an initial list as you can. At a minimum, guardian candidates should be mature, responsible, and people with whom your children feel comfortable.

4. Compare Your Priorities List to Your Guardian List. Determine who are the best candidates based on their willingness and ability to meet your top priorities identified in step two. Ideally you will identify a primary guardian and at least one backup guardian. This step may help resolve any disagreement between you and your spouse as to the best guardian candidate since it shifts the analysis from which candidate you like best to which candidate best fits your priorities for your children. Approach this step with an open mind; you may adore your sister more than anyone else in the world next to your children, but if her lifestyle and circumstances in life make it unlikely she will be able to make your priorities for your children her priorities, it may not be in the best interests of your children to nominate her as their guardian. Remember that, in the midst of the immense trauma of losing their parents, what is likely to be most comforting to children is preservation of as much stability and consistency as possible.

5. Talk with the Guardian Candidates. It is absolutely imperative that you have candid conversations with your guardian candidates to be sure they are willing and able to serve as guardians if it becomes necessary. Convey that you would appreciate their complete honesty and that there will be no hard feelings if they feel they cannot accept the responsibility. Now is the time for them to speak up so you have the opportunity to select someone else.

6. Put It in Writing. Under North Carolina law, the courts are required to give your “testamentary recommendation” about a guardian for your children “substantial weight.” Therefore, you must put your guardian nominations in your will. Guardian nominations are one of the primary reasons all parents of young children should have a will.

7. Provide Financial Support. Whether through savings or life insurance, be sure that, if anything happens to you, you have provided money to support your children to the greatest extent possible. This may impact the results of steps four and five since the guardian candidates’ ability to meet your priorities and accept responsibility for your children may affected by finances. In addition to funds to cover basic necessities, consider having sufficient savings or insurance to cover private school, college education, a home with a yard, or a stay-at-home guardian if those are among your priorities for your children.

8. Leave Instructions. Consider writing a letter to the guardian about your desires for your children and your requests regarding their upbringing. The priorities you identified in step one will be a starting place for this letter. Seal the letter and a copy of your will in an envelope and give it to the guardian. While an instruction letter is not legally enforceable, the guardian will be grateful for the guidance and insight into your wishes. The letter may also be meaningful to your children one day as an expression of your care for them and hopes for their future.

Odds are that you live well beyond seeing your children into adulthood, but please don’t take your chances and fail to have any planning in place just in case. Give yourself the peace of mind of knowing you have done all you can to protect and ensure the best interests of your children whatever life might bring.

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE WAS PREPARED BY SODOMA LAW, P.C. AND IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT, IN ANY WAY, CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE.

Sodoma Law Welcomes Larissa B. Stein to the Estate Planning Practice Group

2011-07-15T20:40:13+00:00

Sodoma Law is proud to announce attorney Larissa B. Stein has joined the Estate Planning Practice Group. The firm is now able to provide more full-service counsel to families and are excited about Ms. Stein\'s continuing her estate planning practice with us. Please join us in welcoming attorney Larissa B. Stein.

Is a HandWritten Agreement for Alimony Valid?

2011-05-25T21:58:24+00:00

The 2009 Court of Appeals case Sluder v. Sluder addresses this very issue. Husband signed a statement that was handwritten promising to pay Wife $1,000.00 per month in spousal support. The handwritten statement was as follows: “I Gary M. Sluder pay to my wife Christina, the sum of One Thousand Dollars a month in spousal support.” The trial court found that Husband agreed to pay Wife $1,000.00 per month so she would have proof of income to rent an apartment. The trial court ruled in favor of the Wife and ordered Husband to pay Wife $11,000.00 for the previous eleven months. Husband appealed the ruling of the trial court on the basis that the agreement was not enforceable because the agreement was not signed by both parties before a certifying officer. The Court of Appeals ruled that the statement was not valid because it was not notarized before a certifying officer. North Carolina General Statute § 52-10.1 governs support agreements made in the context of a parties’ separation. The Statute states in part: “Any married couple is hereby authorized to execute a separation agreement not inconsistent with public policy which shall be legal, valid and binding in all respects; provided, that the separation agreement must be in writing and acknowledged by both parties before a certifying officer as defined in North Carolina General Statute 52-10(b). Such certifying officer must not be a party to the contract.”

The moral of this story is agreements between married and/or separated persons can be complicated and confusing. The best course of action before signing an agreement of any sort is to consult an attorney.

The legal precedent established by cases such as Sluder v. Sluder is always subject to change due to action by the North Carolina General Assembly, decisions by a higher court, or legislative action taken by the Congress of the United States of America. Therefore, it is always imperative to seek the advice of legal counsel that is apprised and familiar with the law as it relates to your case.

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE WAS PREPARED BY SODOMA LAW, P.C. AND IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT, IN ANY WAY, CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE.

Congratulations to the Crime Victims\' Coalition

2011-04-13T18:55:18+00:00

Reshaping the Future. Honoring the Past. On April 13, 2011, the Crime Victims\' Coalition held its 4th Annual Awards Luncheon honoring professionals and volunteers who routinely go above and beyond for victims of crime. We applaud their efforts and the Coalition for changing the course of history and transforming lives.

Name Change Tips from IRS

2011-02-22T18:23:49+00:00

If you changed your name as a result of a recent marriage or divorce, you will want to take the necessary steps to ensure the name on your tax return matches the name registered with the Social Security Administration. A mismatch between the name shown on your tax return and the SSA records can cause problems in the processing of your return and may even delay your refund.

Here are five tips from the IRS for recently married or divorced taxpayers who have a name change.

1. If you took your spouse’s last name or if both spouses hyphenate their last names, you may run into complications if you don’t notify the SSA. When newlyweds file a tax return using their new last names, IRS computers can’t match the new name with their Social Security Number.

2. If you were recently divorced and changed back to your previous last name, you’ll also need to notify the SSA of this name change.

3. Informing the SSA of a name change is easy: Just file a Form SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card at your local SSA office, and provide a recently issued document as proof of your legal name change.

4. Form SS-5 is available on SSA’s website at http://www.socialsecurity.gov, by calling 800-772-1213 or at local offices. Your new card will have the same number as your previous card, but will show your new name.

5. If you adopted your spouse’s children after getting married, you’ll want to make sure the children have an SSN. Taxpayers must provide an SSN for each dependent claimed on a tax return. For adopted children without SSNs, the parents can apply for an Adoption Taxpayer Identification Number – or ATIN – by filing Form W-7A, Application for Taxpayer Identification Number for Pending U.S. Adoptions with the IRS. The ATIN is a temporary number used in place of an SSN on the tax return. Form W-7A is available on the IRS website at http://www.irs.gov, or by calling 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).

Sodoma Law Hosts President Obama\'s Advisor

2011-01-29T18:02:55+00:00

Sodoma Law was proud to host President Barack Obama\'s Advisor on Environmental Policy on Friday, January 28, 2011. Nancy Sutley, the Council on Environmental Quality\'s Chairperson, facilitated a round table discussion on renewable and clean energy initiatives for North Carolina in support of the President\'s recent State of the Union address.

Nicole Sodoma named Legal Elite by Business North Carolina

2010-12-17T15:32:12+00:00

Nicole Sodoma was selected as one of Business North Carolina’s Legal Elite. Winners are chosen not by Business North Carolina editors but by the state\'s lawyers. Business North Carolina\'s Legal Elite has become the model for other awards and lists, but it remains unique as the only award that gives every active lawyer in the state the opportunity to participate. Business North Carolina\'s Legal Elite includes the top lawyers chosen using this statewide ballot. Congratulations!

Save the Date! Free Seminar!

2010-10-28T13:44:10+00:00

On Tuesday, November 16, 2010, attorney Misty Hardison will continue her series of free seminars offered by Sodoma Law, P.C. to help educate you, or someone you know, about issues related to separation and divorce. For more information, contact us at 704.442.0000 or email info@sodomalaw.com. Space is limited so mark your calendars and join us on November 16, 2010. Look forward to seeing you soon.

Changes to Child Custody Orders

2010-10-25T13:04:52+00:00

Child Custody Orders may be modified based on a substantial change in circumstances which warrant a modification of the existing child custody order. The substantial change of circumstances must affect the welfare of the minor child. To many, this standard may seem vague and confusing. A recent Court of Appeals case Patten v. Werner discusses the issue of modifying custody. Father filed a motion to modify a current custody order asking the Court to grant him primary physical custody of the parties’ minor child.

In this case, Father and Mother were divorced. After the divorce, an order was entered granting Mother primary physical custody of the child with Father having liberal visitation. Mother then remarried and her new spouse was the center of Father’s motion to modify custody. Mother’s new husband had been arrested for driving while intoxicated and his license had been revoked; however, Mother continued to allow her new husband to drive with the child. The child had allegedly witnessed domestic violence which led to the new husband being charged with assault. Additionally, the child’s absences and tardy marks at school had increased.

The key issue in cases of this nature is whether the facts and circumstances affect the welfare and well-being of the minor child. The trial court found that due to Mother and new husband’s behavior and the home environment they had created, the child’s welfare and well-being had, in fact, been affected.

The trial court modified custody and awarded primary custody to Father. The trial court considered the changes described above and how they affected the child and determined it was in the child’s best interest to modify custody.

The Court of Appeals affirmed the trial court’s decision to modify custody and award Father primary physical custody of the minor child.

The legal precedent established by cases such as Patten v. Werner is always subject to change due to action by the North Carolina General Assembly, decisions by a higher court, or legislative action taken by the Congress of the United States of America. Therefore, it is always imperative to seek the advice of legal counsel that is apprised and familiar with the law as it relates to your case.

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE WAS PREPARED BY SODOMA LAW, P.C. AND IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT, IN ANY WAY, CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE.

Unwed Father\'s Consent for Adoption

2010-10-03T18:16:35+00:00

In a recent Court of Appeals case, In re Adoption of K.A.R., the Court discusses the issue of when an unwed biological father’s consent is needed for adoption of a child. In this case, the Mother and Father were very young; 18 and 20, respectively. Upon confirmation that Mother was in fact pregnant, both Father and Mother acknowledged that Father was the biological father. Father attended some prenatal doctor appointments with Mother until she asked him to stop attending with her.

Approximately five months prior to the birth of the child, the Father got a job earning $8.00 dollars an hour and began purchasing supplies for the unborn child. Father bought a crib mattress, a car seat and more than $200.00 in clothing. Even though Mother rebuffed these attempts by Father to provide assistance and support, Father still independently bought items for the unborn child which were commensurate with his financial means and resources. Additionally, Father made it clear throughout the pregnancy that he would not consent to an adoption.

Despite Father’s objections, four days after the child’s birth, Mother placed the child with an adoptive couple (Petitioners) who wanted to adopt the child. The Petitioners filed a Petition for Adoption which indicated they did not believe the biological father’s consent was needed. The trial court concluded that Father’s consent was needed for the adoption because he had provided reasonable support given his financial means prior to the filing of the Petition for Adoption. In addition, the Court stated that despite Mother rebuffing Father’s efforts to provide direct support for the child, he still continued to communicate regularly with the Mother about the pregnancy and his opposition to the adoption. The bright line statutory rule is that a father’s consent is needed for an adoption if he has provided reasonable support given his financial means prior to the filing of the Petition for Adoption. The Petitioners appealed the trial court’s decision that the Father’s consent was necessary to the North Carolina Court of Appeals. The North Carolina Court of Appeals affirmed the trial court’s decision that the Father’s consent to the adoption was necessary.

The legal precedent established by cases such as In re Adoption of K.A.R. is always subject to change due to action by the North Carolina General Assembly, decisions by a higher court, or legislative action taken by the Congress of the United States of America. Therefore, it is always imperative to seek the advice of legal counsel that is apprised and familiar with the law as it relates to your case.

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE WAS PREPARED BY SODOMA LAW, P.C. AND IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT, IN ANY WAY, CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE.

Congratulations to Deb Dilman!

2010-09-26T16:52:05+00:00

Attorney Deb Dilman finished strong in her first triathalon today in Huntersville, North Carolina. The Ramblin\' Rose Charlotte featured an amazing venue, beautiful bike course, intimate and energy packed run course, and a spectacular finish line. Congratulations Deb on an outstanding accomplishment!

Nicole Sodoma named a 2010 Mover & Shaker by Business Leader Magazine

2010-09-21T15:09:25+00:00

After receiving her nomination by the Charlotte Women\'s Bar, Ms. Sodoma was incredibly honored to receive the 2010 Mover & Shaker award presented to her by Business Leader Magazine. The event recognizes the achievements of business owners, senior executives and top professionals who fulfill vital roles in the success of their organizations through their leadership, creativity and innovation as well as their committment to supporting the local Charlotte community. Congratulations to Ms. Sodoma and Sodoma Law for all of their achievements.

Divorcing? What You Can Do For Your Children.

2010-08-21T23:37:14+00:00

Children are often the main concern, and source of disagreement, for most divorcing couples. However, most people do not realize that with the right goals in mind, parties can divorce in a way that will allow their children to transition in an emotionally healthy manner.

When couples decide to divorce, the couple may choose to focus on co-parenting. Co-parenting is a term that is used when a divorcing couple works with each other, instead of against each other, to maintain consistency in the parenting of their children. The parents place their focus on working amicably together to raise healthy and happy children.

Consistency and communication between the two households are essential to co-parenting. This does not mean that both households need to be identical; however, similar schedules and discipline help the children deal with the changes their family is going through. In addition, both parents should stay actively involved in children’s school and extracurricular activities.

It is best to lay out the expectation of co-parenting at the beginning of your divorce proceedings. By doing so, you make it clear to your attorney and your spouse what your main goal will be. This also allows your attorney to guide you through the process with the ultimate goal of a amicable divorce in mind.

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE WAS PREPARED BY SODOMA LAW, P.C. AND IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT, IN ANY WAY, CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE.

August 18, 2010 - Free Seminar

2010-08-11T20:01:36+00:00

Child Custody and Child Support Questions? Save the Date! Attorney Misty Hardison will lead her second free seminar offered by Sodoma Law, P.C. to help educate you, or someone you know, about issues related to child custody and child support. For more information, contact us at 704.442.0000 or email info@sodomalaw.com. Space is limited so mark your calendars and join us on Wednesday, August 18, 2010. Look forward to seeing you soon.

Understanding North Carolina Child Support Guidelines

2010-07-05T13:35:21+00:00

North Carolina uses specific child support guidelines to determine how much money the payor parent owes each month. These guidelines take into account not only the need for adequate housing for the child, but also essential items for the child’s well-being such as clothing, food, household expenses, utilities, transportation and school-related expenses. The goal of the child support guidelines is to provide consistency and financial stability in a child’s life, which includes these direct and indirect expenses.

North Carolina’s child support guidelines are based on an Income Shares Model which considers the monthly gross incomes of both parents. Gross income is a parent’s total income every month, prior to the withholding of taxes. Gross Income may not just be salary or payroll wages a parent receives from his or her respective employment. Income may be derived from any source to include income a parent may receive from stock dividends, disability payments, or any other financial resource.

Unlike the more traditional models, the Income Shares Model takes into account the income of BOTH parents, not just the payor parent. This model developed from the theory that financially supporting the child of a marriage is the responsibility of both parents. Therefore, the child should receive the same proportion of financial support from each parent’s income that the child would have received if the parents lived together. For example, if both parents work and make the same amount of money monthly, they should each respectively contribute 50 percent to the support of their child.

To ease the burdensome calculations and to determine the proportion each parent should contribute, North Carolina uses tables based on the Income Shares Model. Contact your attorney at Sodoma Law to determine your support calculation based on the tables provided or to determine whether your child support calculation should deviate, in any way, from that model. As not every child’s needs may be met within these child support guidelines, a deviation from the guidelines may be warranted.

Child support guidelines are updated every four years, and 2010 is the next scheduled year for any necessary modifications to the guidelines.

Contact your attorney at Sodoma Law to make sure your child’s rights are adequately protected.

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE WAS PREPARED BY SODOMA LAW, P.C. AND IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT, IN ANY WAY, CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE.

Attorney Deb Dilman Receives Award from BLOC

2010-06-20T00:34:43+00:00

In recognition of her dedication and commitment to Business Leaders of Charlotte, Deb Dilman received the Newcomer of the Year Award on Friday, June 18, 2010. Through this program, Ms. Dilman led sponsorship efforts to raise more than $20,000 for non-profit organizations to include McCreesh Place in Charlotte. We congratulate Ms. Dilman for her outstanding leadership and devotion to our community and to others.

Save the Date - June 2, 2010

2010-05-15T01:03:15+00:00

Attorney Misty Hardison will begin the first of a series of free seminars offered by Sodoma Law, P.C. to help educate you, or someone you know, about issues related to separation and divorce. For more information, contact us at 704.442.0000 or email info@sodomalaw.com. Space is limited so mark your calendars and join us on June 2, 2010. Look forward to seeing you soon.

I think I need a protection order but what kind?

2010-04-18T13:14:03+00:00

North Carolina provides two basic types of protective orders; a 50B Domestic Violence Protective Order and a 50C No-Contact Order.

There are two requirements under North Carolina law in order for a victim to obtain a 50B Domestic Violence Protective Order. First, a certain relationship must exist between the two parties. North Carolina General Statue §50B-1(b) states that parties must be current or former spouses, have a child together, currently share or have formerly shared a household, have a parent-child relationship, or are currently or were formerly in a dating relationship with each other. Second, statute §50B-1(a) provides that the defendant must cause, or attempt to cause, bodily harm to the victim, or place the victim, or a member of the victim’s household, in fear of serious bodily harm or continued harassment.

If the parties meet these two requirements, a victim can petition the court for a 50B protective order. Emergency 50B Domestic Violence Protective Orders are available for victims who may need immediate legal protection. In this case a formal hearing will be held within 10 days of the issuance of the emergency order. Under North Carolina General Statute §50B-3(b) Domestic Violence Protective Orders are issued for a fixed period of time and do not exceed 1 year; however, the order may be renewed, but the renewal may exceed 2 years.

For victims who do not meet the requirements for a 50B order, it may be possible for them to receive a 50C No-Contact Order. There is no prerequisite relationship that must exist between the parties to obtain this order. North Carolina General Statute §50C-2 only requires that a person be the victim of unlawful conduct, which includes stalking and non-consensual sexual acts.

If a victim meets the requirement for a 50C No-Contact Order, the victim can petition the court for a temporary or permanent order. Temporary orders are generally issued when immediate protection is needed. If a temporary order is issued, a hearing will be held within 10 days to determine if a permanent order is needed. Under North Carolina Statue 50C-8 a permanent No-Contact Order may not exceed one year in duration.

There is also a difference in the remedies available for violation of the two orders. If a defendant violates a 50B Domestic Violence Protective Order under North Carolina General Statute §50B-4.1, they may be immediatly arrested and are guilty of a misdemeanor. However, North Carolina General Statute §50C-10 states that a defendant is guilty of contempt of court if a violation of a No-Contact Order occurs.

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE WAS PREPARED BY SODOMA LAW, P.C. AND IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT, IN ANY WAY, CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE.

Cohabitating Couples Gain Rights Through Contract Law

2010-03-23T11:50:43+00:00

Cohabitation is on the rise in America. The 2000 Census found that there was a 72% increase in the number of cohabitating couples in this country during the decade between the 1990 and 2000 census. The 2000 census also reported that 144,000 unmarried couples lived together in North Carolina. These numbers are expected to increase again in the upcoming 2010 census.

Until 2006, North Carolina was one of several states with laws that criminalized the cohabitation of unmarried adults. However, North Carolina’s law was ruled unconstitutional by a State Superior Court Judge on the basis that the state’s law violated the United State’s Supreme Courts ruling in Lawrence v. Texas. 539 U.S. 558 (2003). In Lawrence, the Supreme Court found that consensual adult sexual acts, in the privacy of one’s own home, received protection under the due process clause of the 14^th Amendment.

There are many reasons a couple may chose to cohabitate rather then marry; however, cohabitating couples should be aware that their rights differ greatly from people in a legally recognized marriage. The difference in the amount of protection the law provides is staggering. Unmarried couples do not share the same rights as married couples in making health care decisions for each other, inheriting property after death, and dividing property when a relationship ends.

Cohabitating couples wishing to establish some rights may do so through the use of a cohabitation agreement, also known as a domestic partnership agreement. These agreements are essentially a written contract between the couple which may outline a multitude of things; including what property each partner brings into the relation, the division of that property in the event the relationship ends, the duties of each partner in the relationship, and what will happen to the property of the relationship at the death of one partner. It is best to meet with your attorney to discuss what type of agreement would best suit you and your partner’s needs.

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE WAS PREPARED BY SODOMA LAW, P.C. AND IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT, IN ANY WAY, CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE.

Deb Dilman Participates in 4ALL Statewide Service Day at WBTV Charlotte

2010-03-05T22:07:31+00:00

Attorney Deb Dilman participated in 4ALL Statewide Service Day on March 5, 2010. The phones at WBTV in Charlotte were expected to ring constantly as citizens in all 100 counties were encouraged to call in to volunteer attorneys providing free legal information via telephone. The statewide service project coinicides with the North Carolina Bar Association\'s 4ALL Campaign to provide civil legal aid to the poor. Thank you to Deb Dilman for her participation and for offering her time and talent to those in need.

Nicole Sodoma Named Charlotte\'s Top 50

2010-02-22T19:48:20+00:00

Nicole Sodoma was honored today by Business Leader Magazine as one of Charlotte\'s top fifty entrepeneurs for 2010. Ms. Sodoma accepted the nomination graciously explaining she was not an entrepeneur, instead a family law attorney who started a family business for the families she serves. She explained that she loves her practice and was just fortunate enough to be surrounded by a team of people who feel the same way. Congratulations to Ms. Sodoma for her award.

Welcome Misty W. Hardison

2010-01-18T18:47:33+00:00

Please join us in welcoming our newest attorney at Sodoma Law, P.C. Misty W. Hardison joined Sodoma Law, P.C. to continue her family law practice. Ms. Hardison has already begun taking new cases. In addition, after only a week in our practice, she conducted a seminar at the Women\'s Commission on issues related to separation and divorce. Ms. Hardison\'s passion for family law makes her a natural fit for our practice. Please join us in welcoming her.

Parental Alienation Can Take a Drastic Toll on Parent-Child Relationship

2010-01-07T00:26:49+00:00

Parental alienation is a fairly new concept; in fact the term has only been around since the late 1980’s. However, it is an ever increasing concern for many because of the drastic toll it can take on the parent-child relationship.

Generally defined, parental alienation is the term used when one parent demeans the other parent openly in front of a child, with the intent, either consciously or subconsciously, to alienate the child from that parent. The parent being demeaned is often called the “targeted” parent, and the parent making the comments is called the “alienator”. Parental alienation is most likely to occur during high conflict divorce cases.
The effects of parental alienation can be sweeping, alienating not only a parent, but an entire extended family including grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. Author Jane Appell, Ph.D. breaks parental alienation down into five categories in her book; Divorce Doesn\'t Have to Be That Way: A Handbook for the Helping Professional. As the categories increase as does the level of alienation suffered.First, the child has positive relationships with both parents. Second, a child may begin to show affinity with one parent over the other. Third, a child becomes allied with one parent against the other parent. Fourth, a child is estranged from a parent and shows a negative attitude about the targeted parent. Fifth and most severe, the child is completely alienated from the targeted parent and no longer has any type of relationship with that parent.

Douglas Darnall, Ph.D. states in his article, Three Types of Parent Alienators, that the most difficult part of parental alienation is that anyone in the child’s life can become an alienator; this can include parents, friends, aunts, uncles, or grandparents.

The Parental Alienation Awareness Organization lists several signs parents should look for to detect whether parental alienation is happening to them. These signs can range from a sudden negative attitude toward the targeted parent, blaming the targeted parent for financial problems, asking the child about the targeted parent’s personal life, setting up interferences with the targeted parent’s visitation schedule, and asking the child to choose one parent over the other.

So what do you do if you find yourself a target of parental alienation? The first step is to contact your attorney. Your attorney can make the judge in your custody case aware of what is happening. Each case and each judge is different. A judge may simply begin by ordering the alienating parent to stop their harmful actions and take steps to repair the damaged caused. However, is some severe cases, judges have reversed the original custody order and given custody to the targeted parent.

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE WAS PREPARED BY SODOMA LAW, P.C. AND IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT, IN ANY WAY, CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE.

Sodoma Law Bowls Strikes for Charity

2009-12-07T00:07:21+00:00

In support of local families during the holiday season, Sodoma Law, P.C. teamed up with the Business Leaders of Charlotte to make a difference in the community. Through pledges and donations, many families in Charlotte will benefit from this event. Gifts will be wrapped and delivered just in time for the holidays. Sodoma Law, P.C. was thankful to share in this opportunity. Happy Holidays.

Unmarried Fathers Should Know Their Rights

2009-12-03T03:16:40+00:00

Fathers trying to gain visitation with their child or custody of their child should be aware of the distinctions in rights made between married and unmarried fathers. In North Carolina, there is a vast difference between a father’s rights regarding their children when they are married to the mother of their child, and a father’s rights when they are not married to the mother of their child.

Under state law, when a child is born to a married mother and father, that child is presumed to be a child of that marriage (North Carolina General Statute § 49‑12.1). This means that the father is automatically, in the eyes of the law, the legitimate father, and no further action is needed to establish paternity of the child.

In contrast, when a child is born to an unmarried couple, a father’s rights regarding that child are not immediately established. This is true even if the father is listed on the child’s birth certificate. Paternity must first be established before a father can have any rights and obligations regarding visitation or support of his child.

North Carolina statutes allow a child to be legitimized in one of two ways: through the subsequent marriage of the child’s mother and father (North Carolina General Statute § 49‑12), or through the declaration made by the child’s father to the court (North Carolina General Statute NCGS § 49‑10).

Once paternity is established, an unmarried father has the same rights as a married father. This means a father has the right to visitation or custody of the child, as deemed appropriate by the court, and that the father has to fulfill support obligations owed to the child. If you are an unmarried father needing to establish your rights, contact your attorney for assistance through these court proceedings.

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE WAS PREPARED BY SODOMA LAW, P.C. AND IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT, IN ANY WAY, CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE.

Alienation of Affections and Criminal Conversation Actions Receive Changes in House Bill

2009-10-28T01:47:54+00:00

North Carolina is one of only a handful of states that recognize certain “heart balm” actions, which include alienation of affection and criminal conversation (and no, criminal conversation has nothing to do with talking to a criminal). These unique tort actions allow for a spouse to recover from a third party for their interference in the marital relationship.

However, North Carolina has recently passed and enacted House Bill 1110, “An Act to Clarify Procedures in Civil Actions for Alienation of Affections and Criminal Conversation”. This bill leaves the basic requirements to bring one of these heart balm actions the intact, but it modifies some of the procedures to bring one of these claims before the court.

There are three requirements to bring a claim of alienation of affection against someone. All three must be present. They are: 1) a marriage, containing genuine love and affection, existed between the plaintiff and the plaintiff’s spouse, 2) the defendant acted maliciously, and 3) the love and affection was destroyed by the defendant’s malicious acts.

A claim of criminal conversation has only two requirements. Both must be present. The requirements are 1) a valid marriage existed between the plaintiff and the plaintiff’s spouse, and 2) the defendant had sexual intercourse with the plaintiff’s spouse during the marriage.

Prior to the new bill, a plaintiff could bring a claim against a defendant, even if the action giving rise to the claim occurred after the married coupled separated. This meant if one spouse moved out of the marital residence, and then began dating; the new dating partner (the third party) opened themselves up to potential legal liability.

House Bill 1110 changed this aspect. Once the bill took effect on October 1, 2009, a claim of criminal conversation or alienation of affection cannot be brought against a third party after the spouses have physically separated (and one of the spouses has the intent for the physical separate to be permanent).

In addition, the new bill sets the statute of limitations for these heart balm actions at three years. Therefore, any claim of alienation of affection or criminal conversation must be brought before the court within three years of the incident giving rise to the claims.

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE WAS PREPARED BY SODOMA LAW, P.C. AND IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT, IN ANY WAY, CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE.

Grandparents Do Have Rights to Grandchild Visitation in North Carolina

2009-10-20T01:43:52+00:00

The right of a grandparent to have visitation with their grandchildren following a divorce has become a highly debated topic. Grandparents are increasingly becoming everyday caretakers to their grandchildren and, in many cases, living under the same roof as their grandchildren. According to the Census Bureau, a study they conducted in 2008 found that approximately 3.8 million multigenerational households exist in the United States.

Even though these living and care arrangements can be beneficial for grandparents, parents, and grandchildren, many grandparents find themselves all but forgotten about when child custody and visitation arrangements are determined by the court. For this reason grandparents in North Carolina should be aware of the rights the state provides for them.

North Carolina General Statute §50‑13.2. (b1) states, “An order for custody of a minor child may provide visitation rights for any grandparent of the child as the court, in its discretion, deems appropriate.” The Court will decide if grandparent visitation is appropriate by making a determination of what is in the “best interest” of the child. The best interest of a child is determined on a case by case basis. No two motions for visitation are ever the same, and the court may consider many different factors to determine what is in the child’s best interest. These factors for grandparent visitation may include, but are certainly not limited to, the length of the relationship between the child and grandparent, the relationship between the child’s parent and the grandparent requesting visitation, and, in some cases, if the child is old enough, the court may take the child’s preferences into account.

Timing is everything for a grandparent wishing to make a visitation request to the court. A grandparent wanting to ensure they receive visitation with their grandchild during divorce proceedings between the child’s parents, will to a certain extent, become part of a parents divorce proceedings. A grandparent will need to enter a petition with the court for visitation while there is pending litigation between the child\'s parents.

If you are a grandparent wishing to make a visitation petition during a divorce proceeding, it is best to consult with your attorney who can adequately represent you during this process.

DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS WEBSITE WAS PREPARED BY SODOMA LAW, P.C. AND IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT, IN ANY WAY, CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE.

Deb Dilman and Nicole Sodoma Attend the NCAWA Annual Conference

2009-10-06T02:44:25+00:00

This three day event was held at the Francis Marion Hotel and the South Carolina Acquarium in Charleston, South Carolina.

Ms. Dilman and Ms. Sodoma were fortunate to meet outstanding and influential leaders to include, the Honorable Sandra Day O\'Connor, Karen Williams and Sarah Parker.

Ms. Dilman is currently the education chairperson of the NCAWA.

Ms. Sodoma is on the board of the local chapter of the NCAWA known as the Charlotte Women\'s Bar.

Welcome Deborah L. Dilman

2009-09-20T23:50:49+00:00

Please join us in welcoming our newest attorney at Sodoma Law, P.C. Deborah L. Dilman joined Sodoma Law, P.C. to continue her family law practice. Ms. Dilman is also committed to her volunteer efforts and her involvement in the local bars of both Union and Mecklenburg Counties. Ms. Dilman is truly an asset to our firm. Please join us in welcoming her to our practice.

Council For Children\'s Rights - September 21, 2009 - Save the Date

2009-08-16T17:22:26+00:00

On September 21, 2009, the Council for Children\'s Rights will hold its 30th Annual Meeting. The lunch raises awareness of children\'s needs in Charlotte and North Carolina. Last year, the team from Sodoma Law, P.C. attended this exciting event. Mark your calendars! Attendance this year is expected to be more than 500. The event is to be held at the Westin Charlotte from 12:00 - 1:30 pm. For more information, check out www.cfcrights.org/events or simply ask a member of our team.

Sodoma Law Teams With Legal Representation Project

2009-04-01T00:34:32+00:00

In 2007, there were 3,639 victims of domestic violence who sought help from United Family Services’ Victim Assistance Domestic Violence Program. Despite efforts of organizations in the community, a gap in pro bono legal assistance for domestic violence victims exists in Mecklenburg County. In addition, most pro bono agencies do not assist victims with additional representation in Civil Court proceedings including child custody, child support, separation and/or divorce. Victims who leave abusive partners face many barriers. The Court System is viewed as one of the most difficult systems to navigate successfully. Economic abuse leads to unfair trials where the batterer often has an attorney and the victim is left to fight for herself or himself. This inequitable distribution of justice leads to re-victimization and, in some cases, the victim returning to the batterer to avoid becoming homeless or living without his or her children.

The Legal Representation Project is a volunteer network that works with United Family Services. The mission is to increase the number of pro bono attorneys who are trained in domestic violence to represent victims in all civil court proceedings from the Domestic Violence Protective Order hearings (“the 10 day”) to custody, child support, separation and/or divorce. The goal of the Legal Representation Project is to give victims of domestic violence a choice and a chance: a choice of legal representation in civil court proceedings and a chance to be safe from domestic violence.

Sodoma Law, P.C. has committed to the Legal Representation Project in taking one pro bono case per month in an effort to help the project reach its goal and mission in Mecklenburg County.

If you need assistance, and would like to take advantage of the Legal Representation Project, contact Sodoma Law, P.C. or contact the coordinator, Sheila Passenant, directly at Victim\'s Assistance, 732 East Fourth Street, Suite 204. You may also call 704-926-7508 or email Ms. Passenant at spassenant@ufsclt.org.

Welcome to Sodoma Law

2009-02-01T17:53:51+00:00

Welcome to Sodoma Law, P.C. Here you will find the latest news and events and other articles of interest for you.