Faith Law, PLC Faith Law, PLC 2026-08-12T14:45:03Z https://www.faithlaw.com/feed/atom/ WordPress /wp-content/uploads/sites/1503607/2024/09/site-icon-150x150.png On Behalf of Faith Law, PLC <![CDATA[Is 2 seconds really a safe following distance?]]> https://www.faithlaw.com/?p=52740 2026-08-12T14:45:03Z 2026-08-12T14:45:03Z While two seconds is certainly a safer following distance than directly tailgating, just a second or less behind the next vehicle, it is not necessarily far enough. It is somewhat of an outdated rule of thumb, and modern drivers are actually encouraged to leave at least three seconds between vehicles. Maintaining this type of following distance is simple. Drivers should just periodically count off three seconds after the vehicle ahead of them passes a stationary point. The exact physical distance that is needed will depend on the speed the vehicles are traveling at the time, so it is going to be different on a city street than it would be on the interstate. But as long as drivers are consistently paying attention, they can avoid tailgating.

Why is three seconds needed?

The biggest issue that law enforcement notes is that there is roughly a 1.5-second delay for the rear driver to hit the brakes. That is why two seconds is just cutting the margins a bit too thin, whereas three seconds gives people more time to react. This 1.5-second delay can be divided into two significant parts. First of all, the driver has to see the vehicle ahead of them start slowing down and realize that they need to brake in return. It is just inherently true that they cannot brake at the exact same moment as the driver ahead of them. It takes time. Next, that driver still has to push the brake pedal down. This may require them to move their foot from the gas to the brake. While this does seem to happen almost instantly, it really takes another 0.75 seconds.

Have you been involved in a rear-end accident?

Unfortunately, many people accidentally tailgate and fail to maintain a safe following distance. If you have been involved in an accident that one of these drivers caused, take the time to carefully consider all of your legal options to seek financial compensation.  ]]> On Behalf of Faith Law, PLC <![CDATA[What can slow down the probate process?]]> https://www.faithlaw.com/?p=52737 2026-08-05T14:19:35Z 2026-08-08T06:00:10Z Obstacles that can extend estate administration A straightforward probate may take eight to 12 months, although each estate follows its own timeline. Several issues can interrupt this sequence. Common causes include:
  • Will contests: A relative may challenge the will’s validity. The dispute can lead to a formal court proceeding with notice and a hearing. Added litigation may extend the schedule.
  • Missing or uncooperative heirs: The personal representative may need to identify and locate heirs or beneficiaries. An outdated address or family conflict can delay notice and distribution.
  • Complex assets: Property in another state may require a separate probate proceeding there. A private business or unusual collection often needs an expert appraisal. Each task adds time.
  • Creditor deadlines: The personal representative generally cannot complete the estate until creditors have had time to submit claims and valid debts have been resolved. In Arizona, published notice gives creditors four months to act. Known creditors have until that deadline or 60 days after direct notice, whichever ends later.
  • Incomplete records: Missing tax returns, bank statements or deeds can leave key facts unclear. The representative must confirm ownership, debts and values. Without those details, the estate cannot safely pay claims or distribute property.
These barriers may overlap, increasing administrative work and the chance of litigation.

Why unnecessary delays matter

A longer case can postpone inheritances and raise expenses. It may also increase tension among relatives. Clear records and timely communication often keep manageable concerns from becoming larger disputes. Some problems still require knowledge of court rules or fiduciary duties. Legal guidance may assist with complex filings, creditor claims and contested matters. An attorney can also explain how to protect estate property while completing each required task.]]> by Faith Law, PLC <![CDATA[What should you do immediately after an arrest in Arizona?]]> https://www.faithlaw.com/?p=52739 2026-08-06T08:20:18Z 2026-08-06T08:20:18Z Exercise your right to remain silent and avoid discussing the case An arrest can be frightening, but staying calm can help protect important legal rights. Avoid arguing with law enforcement or trying to explain the situation. Remaining respectful and following lawful instructions may help prevent additional problems. The right to remain silent protects individuals during police questioning. Clearly stating that legal counsel is requested before answering questions can help protect that right. Anything said to law enforcement may later be used as evidence. A few important reminders after an arrest include:
  • Staying calm and avoiding arguing with law enforcement
  • Clearly invoking the right to remain silent before answering questions
  • Avoiding any discussions about the alleged offense until an attorney is present
You should continue to keep quiet about the case after the arrest. Conversations with friends, family members or cellmates are generally not protected. Posts or comments on social media may also become evidence. Keeping the details of the case private until speaking with an attorney can help protect legal interests as the case moves forward.

Follow law enforcement instructions and request legal representation

Following lawful instructions during an arrest in Arizona can help avoid additional charges. An individual may provide basic details but should not discuss the alleged offense. Requesting an attorney and remaining silent during questioning helps protect important rights. The Fifth Amendment protects individuals from self-incrimination and establishes safeguards that apply during police questioning. After booking, the court reviews the charges, explains legal rights and decides release conditions such as bail during the initial appearance. Early legal representation can help protect those rights as the case moves forward.

Taking the right steps can help protect your future

Every criminal case is different and depends on the charges, evidence and circumstances involved. Knowing the legal process, important deadlines and available options early can help protect rights and avoid mistakes that may affect the outcome. An experienced criminal defense attorney can review the case, explain the next steps and provide support during a difficult time.]]> On Behalf of Faith Law, PLC <![CDATA[The do’s and don’ts of social media during your injury claim]]> https://www.faithlaw.com/?p=52733 2026-07-28T11:41:58Z 2026-08-05T11:38:04Z Understanding the risks of social media posts What you share online can help or hurt your injury claim. Insurance companies may misinterpret innocent posts or take them out of context. For example, a photo of you smiling at a family gathering may lead someone to question how serious your injuries are, even if you were in pain when the picture was taken. Defense teams often review Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn and other platforms for information they can use against you. They may rely on comments, check-ins, photos or posts from friends to challenge your claim.

Best practices for protecting your case

Review your privacy settings to limit who can view your posts. However, do not assume those settings will keep your information private. Friends can take screenshots, and other parties may obtain some information through the legal process. Limit your social media use while your claim is pending. If you continue using social media, avoid discussing your accident, injuries, medical treatment or legal matters. Do not post about your physical activities, travel or daily routine. Even a harmless update could lead to questions about your injuries. Do not accept friend requests from people you do not know. Insurance investigators sometimes create fake profiles to view private information. You should also ask friends and family to avoid tagging you in photos or posts without your permission.

Common mistakes that could jeopardize your case

Many people delete old posts after filing a claim. Courts may treat that action as destroying evidence, which could create serious legal problems. Instead, avoid posting anything new that could create problems for your claim. Another common mistake is believing deleted posts disappear forever. Social media companies often keep records, and parties may retrieve that information through legal channels. Publicly discussing a settlement or sharing details about your legal matter may also hurt your claim.

Protecting your interests online

During an injury claim, it is important to be extra careful when you use the internet. Understanding the risks and following these guidelines can help you avoid mistakes that could weaken your claim. Think carefully before you post anything online. Being careful about what you share can help you protect your claim and reduce the risk of avoidable setbacks.]]> On Behalf of Faith Law, PLC <![CDATA[Why do drivers often fail to see motorcyclists on roads?]]> https://www.faithlaw.com/?p=52734 2026-07-28T18:28:52Z 2026-07-28T18:28:52Z Visual and psychological blind spots While negligence certainly plays a role, human biology and cognitive processing are often at the heart of these crashes. Some common reasons drivers miss riders on the road include:
  • Inattentional blindness: When drivers scan traffic, they unconsciously look for large silhouettes like cars and trucks. Because a motorcycle has a much smaller footprint, a driver can look directly at a rider and fail to consciously register their presence.
  • Extreme sun and heat: Low-angle morning and afternoon sun creates intense windshield glare that easily hides narrow profiles. Rising thermal distortion can make distant motorcycles appear blurred or distorted.
  • Speed and distance misjudgment: Lacking horizontal width, a motorcycle might make it more difficult for drivers to accurately gauge how fast it is approaching, which can contribute to intersection collisions.
These challenges are exactly why the “look twice, save a life” campaigns emphasize a second glance before turning or changing lanes. However, a driver’s cognitive oversight or visual limitation never excuses their failure to avoid a crash.

Your right to fair compensation

Every driver has a legal duty to keep a proper lookout for vehicles on the road. If a driver’s failure to pay attention resulted in your injury, you should not have to carry the financial burden alone. An experienced personal injury attorney could help you know your options and pursue the compensation your situation warrants.]]> On Behalf of Faith Law, PLC <![CDATA[Naming a guardian for an adult child with a disability]]> https://www.faithlaw.com/?p=52732 2026-07-26T15:53:05Z 2026-07-26T15:53:05Z Every family wants to make sure their loved ones are able to be cared for and supported throughout their lives; for many, these feelings can begin to come to the forefront when planning for the future. For parents of an adult child with a disability, thoughtful preparation can help to provide stability and peace of mind. While every family’s circumstances are different, creating a plan that addresses both the legal and personal needs can help to make an important difference. Decisions made today can help ensure an adult child continues to receive appropriate care and guidance in the years ahead.

Planning for continued care and support 

Naming a guardian for an adult with a disability is a significant decision that involves both legal, practical and emotional considerations. A guardianship is a legal relationship established to protect and assist an incapacitated person. An individual may be considered incapacitated due to a developmental or intellectual disability, mental illness or another condition that affects their ability to care for themselves or manage their affairs. A guardian may be responsible for helping manage important decisions related to healthcare, living arrangements and other aspects of daily life. Families should carefully consider who would be the right person to take on this responsibility. The ideal choice is someone who understands the adult child’s needs, respects their preferences and is willing and able to provide ongoing support. It may also be helpful to discuss these plans with the individual, when appropriate, to ensure their wishes and comfort are able to be fully considered. The process of establishing guardianship can vary depending on the unique circumstances of the family. Families may need to provide documentation regarding the adult child’s needs and demonstrate that guardianship is appropriate. In some situations, alternatives to guardianship, such as supported decision-making arrangements or other planning tools, may also be worth exploring. Because guardianship involves long-term responsibilities, families should review their plans regularly as circumstances change. Seeking knowledgeable legal guidance can help families understand their options and create a plan designed to protect their child’s well-being. Speaking with a professional can provide guidance on the best approach for your family’s unique situation.  ]]> On Behalf of Faith Law, PLC <![CDATA[Tips to avoid probate in Arizona]]> https://www.faithlaw.com/?p=52731 2026-07-21T06:51:14Z 2026-07-21T06:51:14Z 1. Revocable living trust A living trust transfers your assets into a trust that you control during your lifetime. When you pass away, a successor trustee distributes everything directly to your beneficiaries outside of probate, provided the trust is properly funded. Pros: Covers all your asset types, keeps your estate private and helps manage your affairs if you become incapacitated. Cons: Takes time and money to set up, and you must properly retitle every asset into the trust to avoid gaps.

2. Beneficiary deed

Arizona law allows you to record a beneficiary deed naming who will inherit your real estate upon your death. You keep full control of the property during your lifetime and can revoke or change the deed at any time. Pros: Simple, low-cost and fully revocable. No court involvement at your death. Cons: Covers real property only. Must be recorded before your death to be valid. Does not protect against Arizona Medicaid estate recovery claims.

3. Joint ownership with right of survivorship

If you own property jointly with someone else and the deed includes the right of survivorship, your share passes directly to the surviving co-owner when you die, with no probate required. Arizona law does not assume this right exists automatically, so your deed must clearly state that it applies. Pros: Simple and automatic. Cons: Your co-owner gains an immediate ownership interest, which can expose the property to their creditors and limits your ability to sell without their consent.

4. Payable-on-death and transfer-on-death designations

Your bank accounts, investment accounts, retirement accounts, life insurance policies and vehicles in Arizona can all be assigned a direct beneficiary. At your death, your named beneficiary claims the asset by submitting a death certificate and any required paperwork, with no probate needed. Pros: Easy to set up with minimal or no fees, and revocable at any time. Cons: Only covers the specific accounts or vehicles you designate. Outdated or missing designations can send your assets back into your estate. You cannot place conditions on the transfer.

Which method is right for you?

Most people benefit from a combination of these strategies. A living trust may be the right foundation, while beneficiary designations and a beneficiary deed handle the rest. The key is making sure everything works together, since gaps or inconsistencies between your documents can undo the planning you have put in place. An estate planning attorney can review your assets, identify any gaps and make sure your plan actually does what you intend it to do.]]> On Behalf of Faith Law, PLC <![CDATA[Can the police search your phone?]]> https://www.faithlaw.com/?p=52720 2026-07-10T15:08:01Z 2026-07-10T15:08:01Z Yes, the police can often search your phone during a criminal investigation. But exactly how they do that depends on a few different factors. For example, similar to searching your home, the police will often start by asking for your consent. They may want you to unlock the device and allow them to look at your text messages, your search history or your location data. You do not have to give them consent. If you do not, though, the police can sometimes get a search warrant. Once this warrant has been authorized, your consent is no longer necessary. The police have obtained the permission they need to search your device and gather the evidence they seek in your case.

Who else has access to that information?

Another thing to keep in mind is the third-party doctrine, which recognizes that another entity may have access to the information the police are seeking. If they can get it from that third party, either through a search warrant or a subpoena, then they may not need to unlock your cellphone at all. You have a reduced expectation of privacy when you have voluntarily shared that information with someone else.  For example, while facing criminal charges, the police may believe you were sending direct messages using a social media app. But even if they cannot unlock your cellphone to read the messages on your end, they may be able to get a record of those messages from the social media company. Cases like this can become very complicated, especially if you believe the police may have violated your rights while gathering evidence. Be sure you know exactly what defense options you have.  ]]> On Behalf of Faith Law, PLC <![CDATA[Can you be charged with assault if no one was injured?]]> https://www.faithlaw.com/?p=52719 2026-07-09T11:51:19Z 2026-07-09T11:51:19Z Actions that may lead to an assault charge A confrontation can still result in an assault charge even when no one suffered a physical injury. In Arizona, assault includes more than causing bodily injury. State law covers conduct that intentionally places another person in reasonable fear of immediate physical injury. It also includes intentional physical contact meant to injure, insult or provoke. The specific facts of the encounter often determine whether an assault charge may apply. Common situations include:
  • Your conduct creates immediate fear: Taking a swing that misses or throwing an object toward someone can support a charge if the other person reasonably feared imminent injury.
  • You make offensive physical contact: Shoving, spitting or other intentional contact meant to insult or provoke another person may qualify as assault even without a bruise or lasting pain.
  • You cause even a minor injury: A small scratch, slight redness or another limited injury often satisfies the physical injury part of the statute.
  • The accusation involves aggravating factors: A weapon or other serious circumstance can raise the allegation to aggravated assault, which carries more severe consequences.
These examples may show why an assault case often turns on the conduct itself, not only on whether someone suffered visible harm. That distinction can shape how prosecutors view the allegation.

Why the facts behind the accusation matter

An assault allegation often depends on witness accounts, body gestures, witness statements and any physical evidence. A missed punch, a shove or a threatening gesture can lead to different legal issues depending on what happened before and after the encounter. Those details often shape how the law applies. An attorney may help review the charge and identify issues that may affect the case. With that context, you can better understand the accusation and the possible consequences.]]> On Behalf of Faith Law, PLC <![CDATA[A serious injury can create long-term financial damages]]> https://www.faithlaw.com/?p=52715 2026-07-02T09:58:48Z 2026-07-02T09:58:48Z In the immediate aftermath of an injury, such as when someone suffers injuries in a car accident, the first priority is often seeking medical care. Just the time that this takes can create short-term damages or financial costs. The individual in question will lose wages when they cannot be at work, for example, and they will have to cover significant medical bills for emergency treatment. When seeking compensation for these damages from the negligent driver who caused the accident, people often start with their immediate costs. While this is important, it is also wise to think about some of the long-term damages. These may also need to be included in any potential compensation.

Future medical expenses

For example, emergency treatment may not be the only medical expense a person faces. They may need to meet with physical therapists. They may need certain medications as they recover. They may need to go to future appointments and checkups or have subsequent surgeries. All of these future medical expenses can be traced back to the original accident.

Reduced earning capacity

Additionally, some people find that their ability to earn a living has changed forever after the injury. They need more than compensation for just short-term lost wages. They may also have a reduced earning capacity. For example, someone who suffers a serious spinal cord injury may not be able to return to work. They are losing future wages annually, and they still deserve compensation for this change in income. This helps demonstrate why it is important to look at the big picture after an accident. Be sure you know exactly what legal options you have to seek appropriate compensation.  ]]>