Mestayer & Associates

Why Do I Need a Family Law Attorney?

Family law is the portion of the law that covers family and familial matters. There are a variety of things family law attorneys can help you with including divorce, paternity, parental rights, child custody and child support. If you are dealing with one of these issues you may need a family law attorney.

Do You Qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance?

According to the CDC website (2019), 33.5% of adults have some type of disability in the state of Mississippi. If you have a disability and have worked long enough, as well as paid Social Security taxes, then you may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance.

What to Look for in a Probate Attorney in Pascagoula, MS

Probate is a legal process that occurs when someone passes away. Their last will and testament will need to be legally validated, and all applicable taxes and debts will need to be paid prior to the assets being distributed to those listed in the will.

What is the Difference Between a Will and a Trust?

When it comes to estate planning you may have heard the words “will” and “trust” used a lot. They are similar but there are some major differences. Let’s break down what they really mean, what those differences are and when each one comes into play as the best option for your estate planning.

What Does Tax Law Cover

Taxes and the laws that surround them are a little tricky if you aren’t versed in them. Tax laws differ by state and are also changed and updated regularly which means it can be hard to keep up. Thankfully the attorneys at Mestayer & Associates have years of experience and can help you navigate any tax law related situation in Mississippi.

5 Different Types of Car Accidents

In the United States, there are 6 million motor vehicle accidents per year. 3 million of those accidents cause injury. Car accidents are very common, and you’ve probably found yourself in that situation before. Learn more about these five different types of car accidents below.

What You Need to Know Before Applying for SSI or SSDI

If you’ve been considering applying for SSI or SSDI benefits, then you’re probably well aware that it can be a pretty complex process. SSI and SSDI are two of the most common federal programs with the Social Security Administration. These two programs were designed to help provide financial assistance to senior citizens and individuals who are living with disabilities. While each program does the same thing, there are specific differences that set them apart.

4 Things You Should Know About Probate Law in Mississippi

By definition, probate is the official proving of a will. To dive a little deeper, though, probate is the legal process that occurs after an individual passes. The point of probate law is to make sure the deceased’s wishes are carried through and that their property and possessions are given to the right people. In addition, any taxes or debt that is still owed by the deceased are paid in full during probate.

Why You Need a Lawyer After Your Car Accident in Pascagoula, Mississippi

Did you know that there’s an estimated 6 million car accidents in the United States each year? This means that there are about 16,438 accidents every day. In addition, nearly 1.25 million people are killed in accidents, and 20-50 million individuals are injured or disabled. These numbers are pretty alarming and probably higher than you expected.

When Do You Need a Tax Attorney?

Taxes can be intimidating for many people. It’s a complex process that requires precise information and there are specific guidelines to follow. Accountants and tax attorneys can help individuals with their taxes. Each can help past events and help you prepare for the future. But, at what point do you use a tax attorney rather than an accountant?

Common Questions about Divorce

Divorce can be a scary thing to think about. Whether you are going through one, or are considering getting a divorce, there’s probably a lot of questions you have. The best thing you can do is contact an attorney at Mestayer Law Firm to get the best clarity possible.

How to get a divorce in the state of Mississippi

Going through a divorce can be tough, emotionally and financially. Unfortunately, it’s not an easy process where you just sign paperwork and call it quits. When it comes to divorce, each state has its own set of procedures and divorce laws.

How to Choose the Right Lawyer in Pascagoula, MS

Are you scouring the internet trying to find a suitable lawyer in your area? There’s so many options, especially in Pascagoula, MS, which can make it difficult to determine who your top choice is. However, there are a few things you should take into consideration when trying to choose the right lawyer for you in Pascagoula, MS.

How to Grow Your Social Security Benefits Beyond Retirement Age

Social security benefits are payments that are made to qualified retirees, disabled individuals, spouses, children and survivors in the event they have passed on. While the retirement age is from 65-67 (depending on when you were born), many Americans are choosing to continue to work beyond this.

What is Considered Family Law

Are you familiar with what is considered family law for the state of Mississippi? Though there are various branches covered, we break them down for you here as far as our primary practice areas. We know how important family matters are, and want you to know your rights while entrusting in us for your court needs.

When Should You Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?

Everyday mishaps are far beyond our control. However, unfair justice such as wrongful death or negligence should not stop you from continuing on with your life. There are cases when you have the right to hire a personal injury lawyer to help you get the claims you deserve in the state of Mississippi.

Estate Planning for Families

Life is short, but nothing feels better than knowing you are doing your best to protect your family for the long run. You’ve worked so hard your entire life, so make sure you make it worthwhile by leaving them a part or all of your assets behind. Avoid any family feuds by creating an estate plan and let the process begin today.

Can My Kids Get Social Security Benefits if I am Disabled?

Anyone who has become disabled and is also the main provider for their family has the added financial stress of taking care of their loved ones while not being able to work. Fortunately, Social Security Disability Insurance, in many cases, also extends benefits to the dependents of disabled individuals. How do you know if your children can receive benefits?

The Importance of Hiring an Attorney for Your Upcoming Disability Hearing

The process of applying for disability is not for the faint of heart. The application itself alone can be grueling, not to mention collecting all the necessary medical evidence to support your case. Did we mention that the majority of disability applications are denied? The time it takes to even receive a hearing date can take years.

What It Means to be a Trustee

While it may seem a bit morbid to discuss what happens after one’s death while they are still living, there are many cases where it is of utmost importance. When one has a great deal of assets, be it property, financial, etc., it is crucial for them, as the trustor or settlor, to name someone as a trustee, or someone responsible for managing the trust.

Why Estate Planning Still Matters

Estate planning is working on a series of documents that nobody looks forward to. Nobody wants to spend their spare time planning out their estate. It’s a difficult thing to think about. On top of that, it can be pretty stressful.

What Happens When There is No Will

Chances are you have probably heard people talk about a will or planning their will. Perhaps you have even taken into consideration writing your own will, if you haven’t already.

The Probate Process Explained

If you have ever experienced a family member or friend passing away with you in their last will and testament, then chances are you have been to probate.

What is Continuing Disability Review?

When it comes to Social Security disability, your medical impairment is reviewed periodically in order to determine if you have a disabling condition.

Proving Disability for a Rare Medical Condition

Just because your medical condition is rare does not mean that SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) is unavailable for it.

What are the Grounds for Divorce in Mississippi?

There is no one-size-fits-all solution to divorce cases so speaking with an experienced attorney at Mestayer Law Firm, is extremely important in order to make sure your case is handled properly.

Why Medical Evidence and Treatment is Vital to Your Disability Claim

There are a variety of factors taken into consideration when your disability claim is evaluated, but your medical records are the single most important factor.

Do You Know What the Statute of Limitations is on a Personal Injury Case?

In the state of Mississippi, there are multiple laws that apply to personal injury cases and settlements.

What are Social Security & Disability Benefits?

Social Security pays disability benefits to people who can’t work due to a medical condition that doctors believe is expected to last at least one year or will result in death.

The TRUTH About Your Social Security Disability Benefits

If you or someone you depend upon suffers a disability at their job, it can leave the family in seriously narrow financial straits. Add to that applying for social security disability benefits on your own and the stress and confusion can get downright overwhelming.

5 Reasons Why Your Will Should Go Through a Lawyer

While it’s 2019 and DIY (do it yourself) projects are all the rage, your will really isn’t something that you should take on alone.

Where You Should Start With Your Estate Planning

Estate planning is not something you should procrastinate. It’s better to get started on it sooner, rather than later. If you’re not sure where to get started, we're here to help.

What You Should Know About Child Adoption

When it comes to the adoption process, the more you know the better prepared you can be prior to beginning.

The Different Types of Trusts Available to Distribute Assets

Using a trust to distribute your assets can make life easier for both you and your beneficiaries. If you use a trust, you know your assets will go to those you intended.

How The Court Determines Child Support and Alimony

The court determines child support awards and alimony awards separately. Why you ask? Well, for starters, child support goes to support the child and alimony goes to support the former spouse.

What You Need to Know About Social Media During Divorce

If you are going through a divorce, or anticipate going through a divorce, you will want to think twice about posting anything on social media.

Do You Have to Pay Federal Estate Taxes?

If you inherited a large estate you will most likely have to pay a federal estate tax on the property.

Do You Need a Lawyer for your Disability Claim?

Applying for Social Security Disability can be an extremely frustrating process for most people. It has been found that 70 percent of claims are denied during the beginning state of the application process.

The Difference between Contested and Uncontested Divorce

In most states, there are two types of divorce: contested and uncontested. If you are going through a divorce or contemplating divorcing your spouse, it’s important that you educate yourself on the difference between these two types of divorce.

Are You Getting the Alimony You Deserve?

Alimony, also known as spousal support, is given to divorced couples based on a few considerations. These considerations include your financials and expenses, health and age, length of your marriage, education, employment and other factors. If you have recently divorced and are receiving alimony, it’s important to make sure you are receiving the amount you deserve. Keep reading to find out more.

What Happens if You Don’t Have a Will

It seems that you are always being told about the importance of having a Will, but you may not often be told why it is so important to have. When someone passes away and has failed to create a Will, their estate is divided among their “intestate heirs” which is based on the laws of the state in which you live.

Tips for Avoiding an Accident with an 18 Wheeler

In the event that a loved one passes away and leaves possessions behind, including their financial assets, this is known as their estate.

Inheritance Tax Basics

Accidents do happen, but a collision with an 18-wheeler can be deadly.

The ABCs of Social Security

Everyone should know their Social Security status. President Roosevelt created these retirement and disability benefits in 1935 in order to create a mandatory retirement and disability insurance program.

What to do if you’re a victim of a car accident

According to experts in the auto insurance industry, the average driver experiences an accident about once every 18 years.

What are Trusts & Who Should Have Them

You may or may not have heard of a trust fund. A trust is a legal arrangement in which a certain amount of property or assets is held by a person or bank for the benefit of someone else.

Probate 101

The legal process of transferring property following a person’s death is known as probate. The deceased will have formalized their intentions prior to passing away (usually in a will), their property is collected, debts are paid from their estate and then the property is distributed to the intended recipients.

Understanding Your Rights if You Are the Victim of Premises Liability

Many people think that if they suffer an injury at another person’s home or business, the owner is automatically responsible for their injuries.

Why You Should Get a Prenuptial Agreement

While the idea of signing a prenuptial agreement may seem distasteful for reasons that are understood, they do make a lot of sense.

Why You Should Hire an Attorney to Create a Will

Drafting a will can seem like a scary idea, considering no one truly wants to think about passing away.

Could You Have a Products Liability Claim?

Did you know that thousands of consumers are injured or killed by defective products each and every year?

What to do if You’ve Been Denied a Social Security or Disability Claim

Every time you receive a paycheck from your employer, there is a portion of taxes that go to pay for Social Security benefits.

Things to Consider for Child Adoption

Did you know that more than 120,000 children get adopted each year in the United States?

How to Keep the Peace Through Divorce

Over half of all marriages are ending in divorce. Under most circumstances these times are wrought with emotions.

6 New Social Security Limitations and Restrictions

Are you, your spouse or a family member nearing retirement age or disabled? If the answer is yes, you will definitely want to keep abreast of social security limitations and restrictions.

Rear End Accidents Are More Serious Than You Think!

“Fender benders” or rear end accidents are common. Because of this, people commonly make the mistake of assuming that they are not serious.

Myths About Personal Injury Law

If you have ever been involved in a traumatic car accident, painful fall, or harmful medical malpractice accident, typically, the last thing you want to do is go through the process of hiring a lawyer for a personal injury claim.

What to do when you are denied Social Security Disability

Being denied Social Security can be very stressful and may feel like you are getting nowhere.  It is both inconvenient and very time consuming to deal with.  While hiring a legal representative is not required, it is very beneficial and can streamline the process.

Know Your Rights In A Personal Injury Claim

When you or a loved one experience an injury, whether it be a car accident or commonplace mishap, it can be not only painful but stressful as well. A personal injury claim can not only help you seek justice, but also help you get back on your feet.

5 Things to Understand About Mississippi's Inheritance Tax

When someone passes away, there are many unfinished pieces of business to conduct. One of those is managing inheritance and honoring your loved one’s wishes. At Mestayer Law Firm, we seek to provide the best legal counsel to guide you through this process.

Tax Planning Tips for Businesses in 4th Quarter

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! As the garland is strung, the lights are lit and the trees flocked, the holiday spirit takes over the Gulf Coast. Pascagoula is ready to swing into the holiday.

5 Things You Should Know Before Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer

Hire the best lawyer for you. You have one chance to get compensated for your personal injuries, so make sure you move forward with the strongest case possible.

5 Things You Should Know About Social Security Disability in Mississippi

If you are getting ready to apply for Social Security disability, then here is a basic guide to help get you started:

5 Tips for Preparing for Your First Meeting with Your Estate Planning Lawyer

Before you walk into your estate planning lawyer’s office, you’ll need to prepare some documents and gather pertinent information. Doing so will save you time and money in additional consultations. Below is a checklist of items to prepare and bring to the initial meeting:

FIVE LIFE EVENTS THAT MEAN IT IS TIME TO UPDATE YOUR WILL

There are many important things that happen in our lives. The most important ones are called “life events” and signal huge changes. These changes may be emotional, physical, financial, geographical, or all of the above.

GENERAL OUTLINE OF PROBATE PROCESS IN MISSISSIPPI

The probate process for an estate can seem daunting, causing those who are faced with the prospect to want to run the other direction. While the probate procedure is time-consuming and tedious, the logistics are actually quite simple.

When To Set Up A Family Trust

Any trust is a legally binding document that covers assets. In this case, a family trust covers assets during one’s lifetime and specifies how the items you’ve accrued will be divided once you pass away. Often this is considered something only wealthy people do, think ‘Trust Funds’, but this is a valuable tool for all income levels.

What Not To Do Immediately Following a Car Accident

Unfortunately, accidents do happen at times. An accident can ruin your entire day and often sends those involved into a state of panic, causing them forgetting the correct measures to take. After you are involved in an accident, there are precautionary steps that you should take to ensure your own safety and the safety of anyone else involved.

4 Things You Should Know About Probate from Mestayer & Associates

First of all, what is probate? It is a term that means “the official proving of the will.” It is the process that is used to administer the last will and testament or estate of a descendent.

5 COMMON LIFE CHANGES THAT REQUIRE AN UPDATE TO YOUR WILL

If you’re like most people, talking about your will and testament is not among your favorite conversations. However, this important document guarantees your family is set up for success after your departure.

6 Reasons to Consider a Prenuptial Agreement

In the minds of those who are engaged to be married, the words ‘prenuptial agreement’ is a dirty word with a negative implication. For the practical thinker, a prenuptial agreement is a smart arrangement that prepares for the worst-case scenarios should a divorce arise.

ESTATE PLANNING TIPS FOR MILLENIALS

Do you think estate planning is for old people? It’s for the ones who have a lot of money. It’s helpful when you have lots of kids to fight over your stuff.

FIVE SOCIAL SECURITY CHANGES THAT HAPPENED IN 2017

With much talk of the changes which will necessarily happen to keep Social Security funded for the next few generations, we seem to live in fear.

FOUR TYPES OF TRUSTS AND WHO NEEDS THEM

While there are some forms of trust that everyone is familiar with, such as revocable and irrevocable trusts, spendthrift trusts, and asset protection type trusts,there are some others that are not so well known.

4 Things Expectant Parents Should Add to Their Will Before Baby Comes

The best gift you can give to your newborn child is to start planning for the future before he or she is even born.