There are alternatives to traditional divorce litigation that some people may wish to consider. The parties can engage in collaborative divorce proceedings or resolve disputes concerning alimony, property distribution and related matters in mediation.
Child Support
In New Hampshire, both parents are financially obligated to support their children. The amount of child support required is provided by statutory guidelines that consider many factors, including the parents’ individual income, number of children, and expenses. In many cases, the parent with the greater income will be obligated to pay child support to the other parent if they share residential custody of their children, although the court will ultimately determine the obligations of each parent. If a substantial change in circumstances occurs, a parent may petition the court to modify the child support order. Since each family’s situation is unique, discussing your concerns with a knowledgeable family law attorney can help you better understand what to expect from this process. Discuss a Family Law Matter with a New Hampshire Attorney
Paternity
Premarital Agreement
We are also very familiar with the complexities and issues involved with planning for blended families and second marriages. As part of the planning process, our lawyers are well equipped to anticipate future challenges and prepare prenuptial agreements or structure Trusts such that everyone’s goals are met in the present and honored in the future. Depending on the client’s unique set of circumstances we focus on identifying and retitling assets so that they pass to the appropriate parties and ideally pass without probate administration. The Process
Guardianship
At Normandin, Cheney & O'Neil, we recognize the distinctive challenges that our growing elderly population is facing, and we provide legal services that are tailored to their needs. Our firm offers comprehensive representation in a broad range of matters, such as trusts and estates, powers of attorney, guardianships, claims relating to negligence, financial exploitation, or financial or physical abuse.
Spousal Support
The New Hampshire family law attorneys at Normandin, Cheney & O'Neil understand that legal matters involving your family can be delicate and emotional. Whether you are separating from your spouse, arranging parenting time with children, or determining child or spousal support amounts, we can provide you with individualized legal advice and knowledgeable representation. We have assisted people throughout Belknap, Grafton, Carroll, and Merrimack Counties for more than 100 years, working closely with clients to further their interests and protect their rights in divorce and parenting proceedings. Normandin, Cheney & O’Neil also can provide representation to people who need an injury attorney or assistance with a criminal defense, real estate, elder law, estate planning, workers’ compensation, or Social Security matter. Guidance in Family Law Proceedings
Divorce, parental rights and responsibilties and support, and other domestic disputes are sensitive issues that may require capable legal guidance. The dedicated attorneys at Normandin, Cheney & O'Neil handle a variety of issues that arise before, during, and after marriage, as well as matters involving parental rights and responsibilities, paternity, and support. If you need to modify a custody or support arrangement, for example, you will need to show that a substantial change in circumstances has occurred. Having an experienced attorney can be critical in helping you meet this standard, or in advocating that a certain parenting arrangement promotes the best interests of your child. Criminal Defense Attorneys Fighting for Your Rights
DUI/DWI
Founded in 1914, Normandin, Cheney & O'Neil is a full-service law firm that includes New Hampshire criminal defense attorneys. With decades of combined legal experience, we have exceptional courtroom skills and proficiency defending people in Belknap, Grafton, Carroll, and Merrimack Counties against a wide range of charges. For example, we have handled both felony and misdemeanor cases involving theft crimes, assault, DUI, drug offenses, and more. We are also available to people who need an injury attorney or representation in matters related to estate planning and probate, family law, real estate, business law, workers’ compensation, and government benefits. Mounting a Strong Criminal Defense on Your Behalf
Wrongful Death
The death of a family member can be difficult to accept when it was caused by someone else’s negligence. Fortunately, survivors may have recourse to hold careless parties responsible for the loss of their loved ones. An injury attorney at Normandin, Cheney & O'Neil can help surviving family members of accident victims assert their right to compensation. Our New Hampshire wrongful death lawyers understand how much this process means to bereaved families and will work vigorously to pursue a successful outcome. We can provide compassionate, individualized representation to people throughout New Hampshire, including Belknap, Grafton, Carroll, and Merrimack Counties. Assert Your Rights through a Wrongful Death Action
Traffic Violations
As a matter of law, the defendant must owe a duty of care to the injured person. In car accident cases, this duty applies to every person behind the wheel, and it requires exercising reasonable care in avoiding harm to others while operating a vehicle on the road. The plaintiff may show that the defendant breached that duty by failing to exercise reasonable care while driving. Typical examples of careless driving include violating the rules of the road, such as by speeding or disobeying traffic signs, distracted driving while using a cell phone or other device, or driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Theft
Misdemeanors
In New Hampshire, crimes are generally classified according to the severity of the penalties. Conviction of a felony may result in a minimum of one year of prison time. Felonies are categorized as either Class A or Class B. Class A felonies include serious crimes, such as murder, manslaughter, kidnapping and others, and they carry a potential punishments of seven and a half to fifteen years of incarceration, fines, and probation. Class B felonies include drug possession, a fourth-time charge of driving under the influence, computer fraud, and theft of property valued between $500 and $1,000. Class A misdemeanors may be punishable by up to a year in jail and fines of up to $2,000. Certain drug related offenses are often categorized as Special felonies. Class B misdemeanors, such as first-time drunk driving charges, do not lead to jail time but may result in fines and other penalties. It is important to note that certain factors may result in elevated charges, such as a subsequent offense or aggravated circumstances.
Drug Crimes
Assault
Murder
In New Hampshire, crimes are generally classified according to the severity of the penalties. Conviction of a felony may result in a minimum of one year of prison time. Felonies are categorized as either Class A or Class B. Class A felonies include serious crimes, such as murder, manslaughter, kidnapping and others, and they carry a potential punishments of seven and a half to fifteen years of incarceration, fines, and probation. More information… Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
Identity Theft
Financial exploitation is often perpetrated by strangers through various scams and identity theft or by professionals like predatory lenders and pyramid scheme investors who target elderly individuals. It can also occur by trusted individuals, such as in-home care providers who steal or over-charge for services, or even by family members making inappropriate gifts to themselves or expenditures, which do not benefit the elderly client. Our attorneys have experience identifying and addressing the issues that arise in these sensitive situations. Identifying and addressing the problem may also require the involvement of law enforcement, an investigation by affected financial institutions, and a civil lawsuit against the responsible person or business. Discuss Your Elder Law Matter with a New Hampshire Lawyer
Prior to law school, Kaity spent three years as a paralegal in the Litigation Department of a large corporate law firm in New York, where she received practical experience in the different phases of Litigation. She is proud to join Normandin, Cheney and O’Neil, where a member from every generation of her family has practiced law since 1914, including her father, Jerry O’Neil, Jr.
Business Formation
At Normandin, Cheney & O'Neil, we are dedicated to furthering the interests of individuals and businesses through exceptional service and dependable representation. Having served New Hampshire residents for over 100 years, we are thoroughly experienced in matters that require a criminal defense attorney and in civil matters such as accident claims, business formation and disputes, land use and real estate transactions, divorce, estate planning and probate administration, financial exploitation and abuse of elders, and disability benefits. Our New Hampshire personal injury attorneys maintain an office in Laconia, from which we can assist clients in Belknap, Grafton, Carroll, and Merrimack Counties, among other areas of the state. To discuss your legal matter with an experienced attorney, contact Normandin, Cheney & O'Neil by phone at (603) 524-4380 or through our online form for a consultation.
Business Disputes
Contracts are also a significant part of operating a business. They may concern a number of matters, from employment and lease agreements to payments for goods and services. Disputes commonly arise when one party fails to perform under a contract, and legal recovery may be pursued as a breach of contract claim. Remedies may include an award of damages, specific performance, rescission, and restitution. For more information regarding contract disputes, discuss your situation with a knowledgeable business lawyer. Banking and Lending Representation
Business Transactions
With a comprehensive range of legal knowledge and experience in handling large-scale business transactions, the New Hampshire corporate attorneys at Normandin, Cheney & O'Neil have the resources and skill to effectively represent your interests. We offer high-quality legal representation tailored to the needs of each entity, along with creative solutions to help accomplish its goals. Based in Laconia, we serve areas throughout Belknap, Carroll, Grafton, and Merrimack Counties, and beyond. We also can represent people who need an injury attorney or legal guidance with a workers’ compensation, Social Security, family law, criminal defense, estate planning, or real estate matter. Contact Normandin, Cheney & O'Neil, PLLC by phone at (603) 524-4380 or online to set up a consultation.
Limited Liability Companies
Our Commercial and Corporate Practice Group attorneys act as general counsel to more than 200 businesses in New Hampshire. We have substantial experience forming corporations, limited liability companies, and other business entities, as well as handling litigation and contract transactions. Our corporate lawyers can assist in business planning and succession, financial transactions, contract disputes, commercial lease agreements, environmental issues, and other matters. Guidance for a Real Estate Transaction or Land Use Issue
Bill regularly defends individuals charged with misdemeanor and felony offenses in District and Superior Court and frequently handles motor vehicle violations and administrative hearings at the New Hampshire Department of Motor Vehicles. With a strong medical background, Bill brings a special depth of understanding to his representation of injured workers, disabled individuals and accident victims. Bill represents injured and disabled people before the New Hampshire Department of Labor, Superior Court, and Social Security Administration and handles ERISA long and short term disability benefits cases before the U.S. District Court for the District of New Hampshire. A strong advocate for workers’ rights, he represents victims of workplace harassment, discrimination and wrongful termination. Bill has also represented many homeowners, landlords and contractors in faulty construction cases, neighbor disputes, collection matters and eviction actions.
Employment Litigation
Bob heads the firm’s commercial and corporate practice group, which acts as general counsel for more than 220 corporations and LLCs of various sizes. His law practice focuses on purchases and sales of businesses; formation of corporations, limited liability companies and other business entities; ownership disputes; banking and commercial financing transactions; business and estate planning; contract matters of all sorts; employment issues; and commercial real estate.
The knowledgeable attorneys at Normandin, Cheney & O’Neil have a broad range of legal experience in institutional, commercial, and residential property matters. We handle issues related to purchase and sale agreements, title defects, deeds and mortgages, foreclosures, leases, and many other transactions. In addition, our New Hampshire real estate attorneys advise clients who engage in commercial and residential property development, by identifying necessary permits and seeking approval from local Planning Boards and Zoning Boards, and represent clients in any subsequent appeals or disputes. With the capable assistance of paralegals and title abstractors, we have the resources and skill necessary to assist individuals and businesses throughout Belknap, Grafton, Carroll, and Merrimack Counties. Our estate planning attorneys also are available to help clients with the disposition of property later in life. Guidance in Commercial and Residential Real Estate Matters
Premises Liability
Property owners and businesses have a responsibility to provide a reasonably safe environment for their guests and visitors. If they are negligent in maintaining their premises, they may be liable for injuries caused by the dangerous condition of their property. The New Hampshire premises liability lawyers at Normandin, Cheney & O'Neil have substantial experience litigating complex cases and work tirelessly to pursue successful results for victims and their families in Belknap, Grafton, Carroll, and Merrimack Counties. If you or a loved one has been hurt on the property of another person or business, a knowledgeable injury attorney at our firm can provide advice regarding your legal options, as well as guidance throughout the proceedings. Seeking Compensation through a Premises Liability Claim
Construction Litigation
Real Estate Transactions
Due diligence is a necessary component of most real estate transactions. Attorneys at Normandin, Cheney & O’Neil assist clients with negotiating results of physical inspections and providing legal opinions on zoning compliance and adherence to a broad spectrum of state and federal land use regulations. Title searches are necessary to ensure that the property being sold is marketable and free of legal claims. Curing a title defect can require corrective instruments and sometimes litigation such as petitions to quiet title. Our attorneys provide legal guidance in all aspects of these transactions, up through and including comprehensive real estate escrow settlement services.
Land Use and Zoning
Regina concentrates her practice on real property law, including residential and commercial real estate transactions, land development and environmental law. Her work involves representation of clients in a broad spectrum of forums, including local planning and zoning boards, administrative agencies such as the NH Wetlands Bureau, appellate councils of the Department of Environmental Services and court. Although a large portion of her client base is from the Lakes Region area, she has represented clients throughout the state on wetlands and shorefront development issues. She is currently the head of the firm’s real estate practice group.
Landlord-Tenant Disputes
Property Damage
The New Hampshire personal injury lawyers at Normandin, Cheney & O'Neil can provide vigorous advocacy for victims of car accidents, slip and falls, wrongful deaths, and other harmful events. Personal injury cases are brought to seek damages for the physical and emotional harm caused by the careless or wrongful conduct of another person or entity. Forms of compensation may include past and future medical expenses, lost income and earning capacity, property damage, pain and suffering, and loss of consortium, among other examples. These claims generally must be filed within three years of an accident.
Condominium Law
Ethan represents clients in a variety of legal areas in New Hampshire Courts and local land use and planning boards. He has successfully represented planning and land use clients before the New Hampshire Supreme Court. He also represents a number of condominium and homeowner associations around New Hampshire and has assisted clients in creating condominium development.
Normandin, Cheney & O’Neil is a full service law firm located in the Laconia, New Hampshire Lakes Region, serving all communities of New Hampshire. Since 1914, our firm has been dedicated to protecting and preserving the values and way of life of our community and its people. Personal Injury & Related Trial Attorneys
Auto Accidents
Social Security Disability
Social Security programs operated by the federal government provide financial assistance to people who can no longer work due to age or a disability. Understanding the types of benefits that may be available often involves navigating a network of complex federal laws and regulations. At Normandin, Cheney & O'Neil, our New Hampshire Social Security lawyers recognize that knowledgeable advice and steadfast advocacy can make a critical difference when you are pursuing benefits. For more than 100 years, we have diligently represented clients throughout Belknap, Grafton, Carroll, and Merrimack Counties. We also can assist you if you need an injury attorney or representation in a workers’ compensation claim, among other legal matters. Social Security Disability Insurance
Medicaid Planning
At Normandin, Cheney & O'Neil, our New Hampshire estate planning and probate attorneys have provided services to residents throughout Belknap, Carroll, Grafton, and Merrimack counties since 1914, and we are well prepared to advise and guide you through the process. An elder law attorney may also be important and needed to protect your interests. Normandin, Cheney & O’Neil, PLLC provides a range of services to assist clients in managing the transfer of their estates including drafting Wills, Revocable Trusts, Durable Powers of Attorney and Health Care Advance Directives. Our firm has over 100 years of experience in the areas of estate planning as well as Probate and Trust administration, Guardianships, Probate Litigation and assisting elderly clients as they progress through their senior years. We also assist clients with Medicaid planning when needed and appropriate.
Our Commercial and Corporate Attorneys represent businesses of all types and sizes. We act as general counsel to in excess of two hundred (200) business entities, including the local banks, defense industry and high-tech manufacturers, traditional manufacturers and distributors, the local airport authority, and various healthcare organizations. More information… Estate Planning & Probate Attorneys
Wills
Ensuring the financial wellbeing of your loved ones and the appropriate settlement of your affairs after your death can be achieved through careful estate planning. At Normandin, Cheney & O'Neil, our Estate Planning and Probate Practice Group provides a full range of legal services, including assistance with probate and trust administration, wills and trust formation, prenuptial agreements, business succession planning, Medicaid planning, and estate tax issues. Knowledgeable Counsel for Family Law Matters
Trusts
Business owners need to carefully structure their estate plans to allow the orderly succession of their businesses whether it be passing the next business to members of their family or maximizing the business value by the ultimate sale to a third party. Planning may involve amendments to corporate documents and shareholder agreements, entering into buy/sell agreements and LLC operating agreements. The goal is to reserve the business value in continuation of income for family members. Probate Trust Administration
Real estate and land use laws govern an expansive range of transactions, regulations, and property-related matters. As one of the largest title bases in the region, Normandin, Cheney & O'Neil can assist people who are seeking to cure real estate title defects. We can also provide guidance in foreclosures, title insurance, subdivision and condominium creation, shorefront development, and many other real estate projects. Our transactions attorneys offer a comprehensive approach, at times collaborating with our litigation attorneys in order to provide solutions that meet the needs of the people and businesses that we serve. Pursuing Workers’ Compensation and Social Security Disability Benefits
Tax Law
We also stay ahead of all tax law changes to ensure that your estate can pass without a substantial amount of your assets being spent to pay federal estate taxes, currently set at a top rate of 40% on transfers to the next generation. Our goal is to help you meet all of your estate planning needs and devise an estate plan that works for you and your family and minimizes administrative costs and estate taxes, where applicable. Businesses