The Importance of Having A Will

Having a will is arguably one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your family. Not only can a will legally protect your spouse, children, and assets, it can also spell out exactly how you would like things handled after you have passed on.  Whether it is choices about your health care, finances or children, the Missouri Will and Estates Attorneys at Boehmer Law can help you get a peace of mind about your future needs.  Our initial consultations are always free so please call 636-896-4020 today.

While everyone who has a Will or Estate, here are some important reasons to plan for your future:

• You decide how your estate will be distributed. A will is a legally-binding document that lets you determine how you would like your estate to be handled upon your death. If you die without a will, there is no guarantee that your intended desires will be carried out. Having a will helps minimize any family fights about your estate that may arise, and also determines the “who, what, and when” of your estate.
• Your wishes are made known on who will take care of your minor children. A will allows you to make an informed decision about who should take care of your minor children. Absent a will, the court may take it upon itself to choose among family members or a state-appointed guardian. Having a will allows you to appoint the person you want to raise your children or, better, make sure it is not someone you do not want to raise your children.
• To avoid a lengthy probate process. All estates must go through the probate process, with or without a will. Having a will, however, speeds up the probate process and informs the court how you’d like your estate divided.
• Minimize estate taxes. Another reason to have a will is because it allows you to minimize your estate taxes.
• You decide who will wind up the affairs of your estate. Executors make sure all your affairs are in order, including paying off bills, canceling your credit cards, and notifying the bank and other business establishments. Because executors play the biggest role in the administration of your estate, you’ll want to be sure to appoint someone who is honest, trustworthy, and organized (which may or may not always be a family member). You will want to discuss the role and responsibility of whomever you choose to be the executor to ensure they are willing and able to do the job.
• Avoid greater legal challenges. If you die without a will, part or all of your estate may pass to someone you did not intend. 
• Because you can change your mind if your life circumstances change. A good reason for having a will is that you can change it at any time while you’re still alive. Life changes, such as births, deaths, and divorce, can create situations where changing your will are necessary.

Talk to an Attorney About the Reasons You Should Have a Will
Please contact our Estate Planning Attorneys at Boehmer Law, let us help you plan for your future.   Your initial consultation is free, and the St. Charles, MO Estate Planning Attorney can help walk you through the process.  Please call 636-896-4020 today.

Fun 4th of July Facts

Happy Independence Day America!  At Boehmer Law, your full service law firm in St. Charles, MO…we hope you and your families have a safe and fun filled holiday.  We also thank all the men and women who help keep our country free and safe and know we appreciate your service to our great country.  God Bless the USA!

While we celebrate Independence Day on July 4th, that is actually not the birth of America. Congress ruled in favor of independence on July 2, 1776. John Adams even wrote home to Abigail saying that this day (July 2nd) will go down in history and celebrated. It wasn’t until July 4th that Congress accepted Jefferson’s declaration. Therefore that day was marked as America’s birthday. So, hey, go ahead and start celebrating early!

 
America started celebrating the 4th of July as early as 1777. There was a parade and a 13-cannon salute in Philadelphia to honor the holiday. However, it wasn’t officially made a holiday until 1870 when Congress passed a bill to recognize major state holidays on a federal level. They also recognized Christmas and New Year’s Day in the same bill.
In July 1776 the population in the United States was 2.5 million. As of June 2016, the population has increased to 323 million.

 
The average age of the Signers of the Declaration of Independence was 45. The youngest was Thomas Lynch who was 27 and the oldest was Benjamin Franklin who was 70. The lead author of the document, Thomas Jefferson, was only 33.
It is estimated that around 155 million hot dogs are consumed in America on the 4th of July making it the largest hot dog holiday.

 
John Adams and Thomas Jefferson both died on July 4, 1826.

 
The Liberty Bell rings 13 times every Independence Day to honor the 13 original states. Descendants of people who signed the Declaration of Independence tap the bell, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, at 2 p.m. eastern time every 4th of July.

 
The very first 4th of July fireworks show took place in Philadelphia in 1777. Fireworks, canons, and bells all went off to honor the 13 original states. Much like modern celebrations, they even had a dinner and parade for the Declaration of Independence’s first anniversary.

The choice of an attorney is an important one and should not be based solely on advertising. The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation.

Speaking to Law Enforcement

At Boehmer Law, our Missouri criminal attorneys have handled thousands of criminal cases from speeding tickets, drug charges, sex charges, violent crimes, and even murder charges.  Whether you are in your car, in a public place, or in your home, how you speak, move, and act can make a big difference in how your interaction with Law Enforcement can or will go.

  Here are some ideas we find useful and hope can help you if you ever find yourself in the situation.

• Be cooperative and respectful. Officers have discretion in whether they arrest you for certain offenses. One way to find yourself in handcuffs is to be combative, disrespectful, or rude.  “Please”, “Yes ma’am”, “No Sir”, etc are all phrases that let the officer know you respect their authority and want to cooperate. 

• Remain calm at all times. Interacting with a police officer can be a stressful situation. Some nervousness is to be expected. However, nervous behaviors could be viewed as incriminating evidence.  Do not attempt to walk away unless you are instructed that you are free to go.

• Do not make any sudden movements. The officer doesn't know anything about you, so it's fair for him/her to assume you're armed with a dangerous weapon.  Do not reach for your purse, glove box, console, waist band or pockets without asking permission.  Many times it is best to say something like “Sir, my ID is in my wallet in my back pocket, may I get it?” or “Ma’am, my insurance card is in my purse, may I get it?”.  They may agree, or they may get it themselves—be calm and compliant. 

• You do not have to consent to a search. Without your consent, an officer typically needs a warrant or probable cause to conduct a search. If you consent, you're essentially waiving your Fourth Amendment right.  If you refuse, be polite and firm that you do not give your consent.

• Request an attorney. If an officer subjects you to a custodial interrogation, request an attorney. This limits law enforcement's ability to initiate questioning.

• Are you free to leave?  The easiest way to determine whether you're being detained is to ask the officer if you are free to leave area. If the officer says yes, immediately leave and say nothing else. If the officer says no, then the officer believes that he/she has reasonable suspicion to believe that you committed a crime.

• You do not have to incriminate yourself. If an officer asks you an incriminating question, the best answer may be no answer at all. Respectfully and calmly invoke the Fifth Amendment.  Anything you say can be used against you. 

• You do not have to waive your Miranda rights. This means you do not have to sign a Miranda waiver form or make any statements.

If you or a loved one has been arrested or you need legal help with being questioned by law enforcement, please call Boehmer Law at 636-896-4020 immediately.  Talk with us before you answer questions—the less said, the better off you are.  We offer free initial consultations so do not wait—let the criminal attorneys at Boehmer Law get fighting for you!

The choice of an attorney is an important one and should not be based solely on advertising. The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation.

Appealing a Missouri Conviction

When a defendant is found guilty in a criminal case, there are several options available to provide the defendant relief. However, many of these options are highly time-sensitive, thus it is crucial that you contact Boehmer Law to speak with our Missouri Appeals Attorney immediately after your conviction. A successful appeal can result in an acquittal or provide a new trial. Having argued cases before the Supreme Court and Court of Appeals of Missouri, the criminal defense attorneys at Boehmer Law can confidently explain the appeal process and provide you with an honest opinion of the merits of your appeal.

Direct Appeal
After a defendant is convicted and sentenced by the judge, the defendant has 10 days to file a notice of appeal in the sentencing court. Thereafter, the case is docketed in the appropriate appellate court. The defendant's lawyer has the responsibility of preparing the Record on Appeal and filing it in the court of appeals within 90 days. The Record on Appeal consists of the transcript of the trial and the legal file, which are all relevant dockets from the circuit court's file. The legal file usually includes the charging document, motions, jury instructions, and the formal judgment.

After the Record on Appeal is filed, the defendant (“appellant”) has 60 days to file an appellate brief. The appellate brief outlines the trial court’s error(s) that warrants a new trial for the appellant. The State of Missouri (“respondent”) then has 30 days to file its respondent’s brief. The appellant is then provided 15 days to file a reply brief. After the case is briefed, the case is docketed before a three-judge panel in the Court of Appeals for oral argument where each party is permitted to argue the merits of their brief. A written opinion is usually issued approximately 60-90 days after oral argument.

Post-conviction Appeal
A Missouri prisoner in custody must file a Form 40 within 90 days after the direct appeal is final to institute a Rule 29.15 or 24.035 proceeding challenging his conviction and sentence. A Rule 29. 15 motion is used when the defendant was found guilty after a trial. A Rule 24.035 motion is used when the defendant entered a guilty plea. If the defendant did not utilize his right to a direct appeal, the defendant must file the motion 180 days from the later of: (1) The date the person is delivered to the custody of the department of corrections; or (2) The date the new judgment or sentence was final for purposes of appeal. A Rule 29.15 and 24.035 motion argues that the conviction or sentence imposed violates the constitution and laws of this state or the constitution of the United States, including claims of ineffective assistance of trial and appellate counsel, that the court imposing the sentence was without jurisdiction to do so, or that the sentence imposed was in excess of the maximum sentence authorized by law. Counsel will request an evidentiary hearing, and if granted will have the opportunity to call witnesses.

Please call Boehmer Law today at 636-896-4020 today to speak with one of our St. Charles, MO appeals attorneys in a free initial consultation appointment.

The choice of an attorney is an important one and should not be based solely on advertising. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation.

Missouri’s Attorney, Eric Boehmer Awarded Top Award for Criminal Law Attorney

PRESS RELEASE

Eric Boehmer of Boehmer Law is named one of 2019 AIOFLA’S 10 Best Criminal Law Attorneys in Missouri For Client Satisfaction—4^th Consecutive Year.

The American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys has recognized the exceptional performance of Missouri’s Criminal Law Attorney, Eric Boehmer of Boehmer Law as 2019 10 Best Criminal Law Attorney  for Client Satisfaction.

The American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys is a third-party attorney rating organization that publishes an annual list of the Top 10 Criminal Attorneys in each state. Attorneys who are selected to the “10 Best” list must pass AIOFLA’s rigorous selection process, which is based on client and/or peer nominations, thorough research and AIOFLA’s independent evaluation. AIOFLA’s annual list was created to be used as a resource for clients during the attorney selection process.
One of the most significant aspects of the selection process involves attorney’s relationships and reputation among his or her clients. As clients should be an attorney’s top priority, AIOFLA places the utmost emphasis on selecting lawyers who have achieved significant as an attorney without sacrificing the service and support they provide. Selection criteria therefore focus on attorneys who demonstrate the highest standards of Client Satisfaction.

We congratulate Missouri Attorney, Eric Boehmer on this achievement and we are honored to have him as a 2019 AIOFLA Member.

You can contact Boehmer Law at: 636-896-4020 or https://www.boehmerlaw.com.

The choice of an attorney is an important one and should not be based solely on advertising. The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation.

Missouri's Boehmer Law Firm Awarded Top Award for Family Law

PRESS RELEASE

Boehmer Law Has Been Nominated and Accepted as 2019 AIOFLA’S
10 Best in Missouri For Client Satisfaction

The American Institute of Family Law Attorneys has recognized the exceptional performance of Missouri's Family Law Firm of Boehmer Law as 2019 10 Best Family Law Firm for Client Satisfaction.

The American Institute of Family Law Attorneys is a third-party attorney rating organization that publishes an annual list of the Top 10 Family Law Attorneys in each state. Attorneys who are selected to the "10 Best" list must pass AIOFLA's rigorous selection process, which is based on client and/or peer nominations, thorough research and AIOFLA’s independent evaluation. AIOFLA's annual list was created to be used as a resource for clients during the attorney selection process.

One of the most significant aspects of the selection process involves attorney’s relationships and reputation among his or her clients. As clients should be an attorney's top priority, AIOFLA places the utmost emphasis on selecting lawyers who have achieved significant success in the field of Family Law without sacrificing the service and support they provide. Selection criteria therefore focus on attorneys who demonstrate the highest standards of Client Satisfaction.
We congratulate Boehmer Law on this achievement and we are honored to have him as a 2019 AIOFLA Member.

You can contact Boehmer Law at: 636-896-4020 or https://www.boehmerlaw.com.

The choice of an attorney is an important one and should not be based solely on advertising. The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation

Missouri Misdemeanor Crimes

A misdemeanor crime is less serious than a felony.  Misdemeanor crimes usually are differentiated from felonies by the seriousness of injury caused to another person, the cash value of property taken, or the amount of drugs in a person’s possession and whether there is proof of intent to sell or distribute those drugs. Missouri categorizes misdemeanors into different classes.  These charges can include failing to have a fishing license, illegal sales by peddler, falsifying report or withholding information regarding an investigation, misusing 911 services, to violation of endangered species law.  No matter what the charges, the Missouri criminal attorneys at Boehmer Law can help you with your misdemeanor charges.

POSSIBLE FINES AND JAIL TIME

Class A Misdemeanors – up to one year in jail or a fine up to $2,000, or both.
Class B Misdemeanors – up to six months in jail fine up to $1,000.
Class C Misdemeanors – up to fifteen days in jail a fine of up to $750.
Class D misdemeanor- $500
Infraction- $400
Note:  If the person has gained money or property through the commission of the offense, to pay an amount, fixed by the court, not exceeding double the amount of the person's gain from the commission of the offense.

If your case goes to trial note that if the jury agrees upon a verdict of guilty but fails to agree upon the punishment or does not assess such punishment by its verdict the court shall assess and declare the punishment and render judgment accordingly. Where the jury finds a verdict of guilty and assesses a punishment not authorized by law, or under a plea of guilty, or there is a finding of guilt in a non-jury case, the court shall assess and declare the punishment.  If the jury assesses a punishment below the limit prescribed by law for the offense of which the defendant is convicted the court shall pronounce sentence and render judgment according to the lowest limit prescribed by law. The court shall have power to reduce the punishment within the statutory limits prescribed for the offense if it finds that the punishment is excessive.

The Importance of Great Legal Representation

A conviction for a misdemeanor crime in Missouri can become part of your permanent criminal record. If you are convicted later of another crime, the court could see your prior conviction and impose a harsher sentence in the new case. A conviction for even a minor crime can hurt you when you are looking for a job, applying to rent a house or apartment, looking to volunteer at your child’s school, or  applying for any type of professional license.
An experienced attorney like the Missouri Criminal attorneys at Boehmer Law can review your Missouri misdemeanor charges and discuss whether you have any grounds for dismissal of the charges against you, explore plea options, or represent you at trial. Our attorneys are very familiar with the Missouri criminal court systems.  When you hire Boehmer Law, a knowledgeable attorney will assist you in making decisions about your case, and protect your rights.  Call Boehmer Law today at 636-896-4020 for your free case consultation and let us get starting fighting for you!

The choice of an attorney is an important one and should not be based solely on advertising. The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation.

Getting Help in Missouri to Lower My Bond

What is a Bail Bond?

Simply put, a bail bond is a condition set with a sum of money to be placed with the courts that grants a temporary release of an arrested and accused person awaiting trial to guarantee that person’s appearance in court for legal proceedings.   If you have questions, you can call one of our St. Charles Lawyers to walk you through the process at 636-896-4020.

How Do Bond Reductions Work?

Depending on the seriousness of charges or previous legal history, a bail bond can be set at a very high price.  When defendants cannot make bail, sometimes they need to seek a bond reduction concerning the pending charges against them.  The first step in seeking a bond reduction is to work with your criminal defense attorney to file a motion—typically a “motion for bond reduction” to lower the bail. You and your attorney may also need to file additional motions to continue to lower the bail to a reasonable amount; for example, 10 percent of the original amount in order to ensure that you or a loved one are able to get out of jail. Whether or not a judge approves additional bail reductions depends upon the circumstances of the case and the prosecutor’s actions.

Requirements for Bond Reduction and the Hearing

When you hire the St. Charles Criminal Attorneys at BoehmerLaw, we will work with you on a very specific strategy as to what to present at your bond reduction hearing.  We will discuss the over all process, what is needed, and who may need to testify (if necessary) on your behalf.  We will keep you updated throughout the process and give you a realistic opinion on what to expect.

Missouri Bond Reduction Attorneys

If you have been charged with a crime, your bail could be set at an overwhelming amount, such as $25,000. Making bail and being released can be crucial in order to properly build your defense with your attorney and get you back to work as soon as possible.  At Boehmer Law, we aggressively work with our Missouri clients to help them obtain a bond reduction to guarantee their release. Contact us today to find out more at 636-896-4020.  We offer free initial consultations to review your circumstances. 

The choice of an attorney is an important one and should not be based solely on advertising. The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship.

Fun Holiday Facts About Christmas

Fun Holiday Facts About Christmas:

Each year more than 3 billion Christmas cards are sent in the U.S. alone.

All the gifts in the Twelve Days of Christmas would equal 364 gifts.

The “true love” mentioned in the song “Twelve Days of Christmas” does not refer to a romantic couple, but the Catholic Church’s code for God. The person who receives the gifts represents someone who has accepted that code. For example, the “partridge in a pear tree” represents Christ. The “two turtledoves” represent the Old and New Testaments.

In A.D. 350, Pope Julius I, bishop of Rome, proclaimed December 25 the official celebration date for the birthday of Christ.

The traditional three colors of Christmas are green, red, and gold. Green has long been a symbol of life and rebirth; red symbolizes the blood of Christ, and gold represents light as well as wealth and royalty.

Christmas trees have been sold in the U.S. since 1850.

According to the Guinness world records, the tallest Christmas tree ever cut was a 221-foot Douglas fir that was displayed in 1950 at the Northgate Shopping Center in Seattle, Washington.

Alabama was the first state in the United States to officially recognize Christmas in 1836.

Christmas wasn’t declared an official holiday in the United States until June 26, 1870.

Oklahoma was the last U.S. state to declare Christmas a legal holiday, in 1907.


Santa Claus is based on a real person, St. Nikolas of Myra (also known as Nikolaos the Wonderworker, Bishop Saint Nicholas of Smyrna, and Nikolaos of Bari), who lived during the fourth century. Born in Patara (in modern-day Turkey), he is the world’s most popular non-Biblical saint, and artists have portrayed him more often than any other saint except Mary. He is the patron saint of banking, pawnbroking, pirating, butchery, sailing, thievery, orphans, royalty, and New York City.

Christmas stockings allegedly evolved from three sisters who were too poor to afford a marriage dowry and were, therefore, doomed to a life of prostitution. They were saved, however, when the wealthy Bishop Saint Nicholas of Smyrna (the precursor to Santa Claus) crept down their chimney and generously filled their stockings with gold coins.

It is estimated that the single “White Christmas” by Irving Berlin is the best selling single of all time, with over 100 million sales worldwide.

In 1962, the first Christmas postage stamp was issued in the United States.

Christmas purchases account for 1/6 of all retail sales in the U.S.

The first printed reference to a Christmas tree was in 1531 in Germany.

Approximately 30-35 million real (living) Christmas trees are sold each year in the U.S.

The image of Santa Claus flying his sleigh began in 1819 and was created by Washington Irving, the same author who dreamt up the Headless Horseman.

From our staff and families at Boehmer Law we wish you all very Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year.

Reminder of our Holiday Hour Schedule

The Holiday Season is upon us.  At Boehmer Law, we believe it is important to spend time with our families and friends to celebrate all we have been blessed with through the holidays.  Below are a list of dates and times that our offices will either close early or be closed.  Our emergency line is active for legal emergencies at 636-896-4020.  Most courts are also closed on all major holidays and may have modified hours during the holiday season.

HOLIDAY HOURS:

Wednesday, November 21^st:  Close at 5 PM
Thursday, November 22^nd:  Closed All Day
Friday, November 23^rd:  Closed All Day
Monday, December 24^th:  Closed at 5 PM
Tuesday, December 25^th:  Closed All Day
Monday, December 31^st:  Close at 5 PM
Tuesday, January 1^st:  Closed ALL Day
Our Normal Office hours apply to all other days during this season which is Monday-Friday from 8 AM to 6 PM.  As always, we offer free initial legal consultations and are here ready to help you with your legal needs.

The choice of an attorney is an important one and should not be based solely on advertising. The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. 

Record Expungements in Missouri

For many people, having a criminal arrest and/or conviction record can create unwanted and negative consequences long after a person’s debt to society has been paid. A record does not even have to reflect an actual conviction to also do damage to a person’s reputation. As background checks and the availability of technology make it easier than ever to access the complete history of a person, any type of legal record can cause issues for everything related to applying for a job, to trying to rent an apartment, buying a car, and in many other instances. At Boehmer Law, our record expungement lawyer in St. Charles, MO offers you the ability for a free case review to see if you qualify for a Missouri record expungement. You can call our offices at 636-896-4020 to schedule your free consultation today.

Recognizing that criminal records may do an excessive amount of unintended damage to a person’s life, in January of 2018, Missouri enacted a record expungement. We will sit down with you, discuss your options, and suggest the best course of action for moving forward with your individual situation. To understand the process please understand that “Expunged” means “erased or removed completely.” In legal terms, expungement is the court process by which a criminal record is destroyed or sealed. Expungement proceedings almost always take place at the state level. There is no federal law governing expungements. Each state, however, has its own qualifications and procedures for expungement, usually requiring a waiting period and a low level of severity to the offense.

What We Can Do For You

Our attorney will help you determine if you meet the state’s eligibility requirements, research your case, file all necessary paperwork, and represent you in court. Expungement can have an enormous impact on your family life, your ability to secure a job, obtain a loan, or rent an apartment, etc. Given that your local judges and prosecutors might be reluctant to allow expungement, it is probably in your best interest to have experienced legal help seeing your case through. At Boehmer Law, we will let you know right away if you meet the requirements for a record expungement in Missouri. We will handle everything from start to finish, be familiar with the laws governing expungement, and have a good working knowledge of the specific court that you will be working with to ensure you get the best possible representation we can offer.

Call 636-896-4020 today to schedule your free consultation for a criminal record expungement in Missouri.

The choice of an attorney is an important one and should not be based solely on advertising. The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation.

Fun Thanksgiving Facts and Tidbits

On the third Thursday in November every year, families across the United States often gather to feast on turkey, play games, watch football, and enjoy family!  We celebrate Thanksgiving to honor the founding of our country.

FUN HOLIDAY FACTS: 

• The first Thanksgiving was held in the autumn of 1621 and included 50 Pilgrims and 90 Wampanoag Indians and lasted three days. Many historians believe that only five women were present at that first Thanksgiving, as many women settlers didn't survive that difficult first year in the U.S.
• Thanksgiving didn't become a national holiday until over 200 years later! Sarah Josepha Hale, the woman who actually wrote the classic song “Mary Had a Little Lamb,” convinced President Lincoln in 1863 to make Thanksgiving a national holiday, after writing letters for 17 years campaigning for this to happen.
• Presidential pardon of a turkey: Each year, the president of the U.S pardons a turkey and spares it from being eaten for Thanksgiving dinner. The first turkey pardon ceremony started with President Truman in 1947. President Obama pardoned a 45-pound turkey named Courage, who has flown to Disneyland and served as Grand Marshal of the park's Thanksgiving Day parade!
• Why is Thanksgiving the fourth Thursday in November? President Abe Lincoln said Thanksgiving would be the fourth Thursday in November, but in 1939 President Roosevelt moved it up a week hoping it would help the shopping season during the Depression era. It never caught on and it was changed back two years later.
• The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade began in 1924 with 400 employees marching from Convent Ave to 145th street in New York City. No large balloons were at this parade, as it featured only live animals from Central Park Zoo.
• How did the tradition of watching football on Thanksgiving start? The NFL started the Thanksgiving Classic games in 1920 and since then the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys have hosted games on Turkey Day. In 2006, a third game was added with different teams hosting.
• Wild turkeys can run 20 miles per hour when they are scared, but domesticated turkeys that are bred are heavier and can't run quite that fast.
• Benjamin Franklin wanted the turkey to be the national bird, not the eagle.

Let’s Talk Turkey…

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Minnesota is the top turkey-producing state in America, with a planned production total of 46.5 million in 2011. Six states—Minnesota, North Carolina, Arkansas, Missouri, Virginia, and Indiana—account for nearly two-thirds of the 248 million turkeys that will be raised in the U.S.

The heaviest turkey on record, according to the Guinness Book of Records, weighs 86 pounds.

Californians consume the most turkey in the U.S. on Thanksgiving Day!

Female turkeys (called hens) do not gobble. Only male turkeys gobble.

The average turkey for Thanksgiving weighs 15 pounds.

The National Turkey Federation estimated that 46 million turkeys—one fifth of the annual total of 235 million consumed in the United States—were eaten at Thanksgiving.

In a survey conducted by the National Turkey Federation, nearly 88 percent of Americans said they eat turkey at Thanksgiving.

Americans eat 46 million turkeys each Thanksgiving.

From Boehmer Law to you and your loved ones…we wish you all a Very Blessed Thanksgiving!  We are here if you need us at 636-896-4020 for the emergency line.

Holiday Hours for Boehmer Law

The Holiday Season is upon us.  At Boehmer Law, we believe it is important to spend time with our families and friends to celebrate all we have been blessed with through the holidays.  Below are a list of dates and times that our offices will either close early or be closed.  Our emergency line is active for legal emergencies at 636-896-4020.  Most courts are also closed on all major holidays and may have modified hours during the holiday season. 

HOLIDAY HOURS:

Wednesday, November 21^st:  Close at 5 PM
Thursday, November 22^nd:  Closed All Day
Friday, November 23^rd:  Closed All Day
Monday, December 24^th:  Closed at 5 PM
Tuesday, December 25^th:  Closed All Day
Monday, December 31^st:  Close at 5 PM
Tuesday, January 1^st:  Closed ALL Day
Our Normal Office hours apply to all other days during this season which is Monday-Friday from 8 AM to 6 PM.  As always, we offer free initial legal consultations and are here ready to help you with your legal needs.

The choice of an attorney is an important one and should not be based solely on advertising. The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. 

Holiday Car Accidents and Legal Help

Holidays are meant to be a joyful and relaxing time, but from Thanksgiving to the New Year holiday are typically a dangerous time to be on the road. As people are traveling on the roads with their families, many car accidents can be devastating. While the numbers vary from year to year, an average of 343 people die in traffic deaths each year during the three-day Christmas holiday period. Even more — an average of 373 — die over the three-day New Year holiday, according to the National Safety Council.

If you are involved in a car accident during the holidays and need legal advice—call the accident attorneys and personal injury attorneys of Missouri at Boehmer Law. We offer a free consultation appointment to discuss your situation to see what we can do to help you. Call 636-896-4020 for legal help.

Here are several steps to take, before you set out and while driving, to decrease your risk of becoming a holiday statistic:

Do Not Drive Without Sleep
Drowsy driving is a recipe for disaster. As many as one in five fatal crashes involves a drowsy driver, according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. When you are sleepy, your reflexes are slower, and you are not as aware of your surroundings. Both can lead to accidents. Get a good night's sleep before setting out. If possible, have an alert adult passenger in the car at all times to look out for road hazards and suggest a stop, a nap, or a switch out drivers if you're tired.

Preventive Car Maintenance
Be sure to service your car before taking off for long holiday trips. For example, make sure you have had a recent oil change and basic car inspection. Inspect tires for wear and tear. Check the tread by doing the quarter test. (Insert a quarter upside down into the tread; if the top of Washington's head is exposed at any point, it's time for new tires.) Look also for any bulges in the tires. A mechanic can also look at the brake pads to be sure they don't need to be replaced.

Check Road Conditions
First, take look at the weather forecasts for the areas you will be traveling in so you know what to expect. If you don't have a traffic app on your phone, such as Waze, check out state sites that alert motorists to road conditions.

Plan Day Time Trips
If at all possible, start and finish trips during daylight hours. That helps reduces risk of accidents. The death rate at night from traffic accidents is three times that of daylight driving. Hazards rise at night for many reasons. More impaired drivers are on the road, whether due to drinking or drugs.

Do Not Drive Distracted
Distracted driving is also hazardous, and cell-phone use may top the list of causes. An estimated one in four car crashes involves the use of a cell phone, the National Safety Council experts say. If you get a text, have someone else read and respond or wait until you pull over safely to read and reply to your text.

Watch Your Speed
Excess speed is a factor in about 70 percent of accidents involving fatalities, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Buckle Up Every Where in the Car
Seat belts are standard equipment in vehicles. Surprisingly, only 78 percent of adult passengers in the backseat use seat belts, according to a report from the Governors Highway Safety Association, compared to 87 percent in the front seat. In vehicle crashes that involved a fatality, only 60 percent were wearing seat belts in the back and 74 percent in the front, the report found.
If you need help with your insurance company, or medical bills and you do not know where to turn--call our St. Charles, MO personal injury attorneys at Boehmer Law for a free consultation appointment at 636-896-4020.  Let us help you.

The choice of an attorney is an important one and should not be based solely on advertising. The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation.

I Got A Speeding Ticket, Should I Get A Lawyer? Will It Affect My Insurance?

At Boehmer Law, our traffic attorneys handle speeding tickets in Missouri every day. Let our experience help you. In most cases, we can handle your ticket all over the phone. Call 636-896-4020 today.

Speeding tickets may increase the amount you pay for car insurance. Speeding tickets are considered part of your driving record. Insurance companies can check your driving record, and could use the information to help determine your risk of having an accident or making an insurance claim. The perception that you're at higher risk of an accident because of traffic violations on your driving record may affect the cost of your insurance. The more tickets you have on your record, the more likely you are going to be considered a high-risk driver.

The more traffic violations you have, the more likely it is you will see increases in the cost of your insurance, especially teenage drivers, according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Drivers that get speeding tickets may be considered part of a higher risk group, and therefore be charged more for auto insurance even if they haven't made a claim themselves, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.

HOW A SPEEDING TICKET COULD AFFECT YOUR INSURANCE

Besides potentially raising your car insurance rates, a speeding ticket could affect your car insurance in other ways:

• Less cost reduction or discounts over time.
• Loss of standard coverage.

Remember: Speeding tickets may affect the cost of your car insurance. Insurers may check driving records, and they may consider drivers with speeding tickets a greater insurance risk. That can increase premiums for drivers even if they haven't made a claim. Call Boehmer Law today for help dealing with your Missouri speeding ticket. We make it quick and easy. Call 636-896-4020 today—in most cases we can handle it all over the phone.

The choice of an attorney is an important one and should not be based solely on advertising. The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice.

Crime Statistics in Missouri

At Boehmer Law, our criminal attorneys have the experience and knowledge to help you with any criminal misdemeanors or felonies on either a local or federal level.  We handle Missouri criminal legal matters like warrant recalls, bond reductions, sexual assault, tickets, drug charges and homicide cases.  Our team of criminal attorneys will sit down with you and discuss the details of your case and discuss how to best fight the charges you are facing.   We are not afraid to take your case to trial if we need to.  Many attorneys just want to settle because they do not have the experience and knowledge to go to trial.

At Boehmer Law, we offer a free consultation to discuss your case so please call 636-896-4020 today.  Let us get fighting for you.  Remember, call and speak with one of our attorneys before you speak with law enforcement.  Anything you say can be used against you in your legal matters.

Missouri Criminal Statistics:

Are you interested in criminal statistics for the state of Missouri such as, how many people were arrested?  How many reported murders, burglaries, or aggravated occurred in 2017.  Here is a link for the full report from the Missouri State Highway Patrol for 2017:  http://www.mshp.dps.missouri.gov/MSHPWeb/SAC/CIM/PDF/ExecutiveSummary2017.pdf

Here are a few highlights:

Arrests:  Law enforcement agencies reported a total of 243,387 arrests in 2017. This is approximately a 2.3% decrease compared to 2016, and a 15.4% decrease compared to 2013.[1]

Murder:  Murder is the least occurring offense of all index offenses but is one for the most concerning with the public. In 2017, 594 murders occurred in Missouri, producing a rate of 9.7 per 100,000 persons. The murder rate increased approximately 10.7% compared to 2016 and has also increased about 59.1% compared to 2013.

Rape:  In 2017, 2,713 rape offenses occurred in Missouri, which is an increase from the 2,543 rape offenses in 2016. The rape rate of 44.4 per 100,000 persons in 2017 is an increase of about 6.3% compared to 2016.

Robbery: In 2017, there were 6,347 robberies and a rate of 103.8 per 100,000 persons. This rate decreased about 3.6% compared to 2016.

Aggravated Assault: The most frequent violent index offense during 2017 was aggravated assault with 22,665 offenses. These offenses constituted 70.1% of violent index offenses and 11.0% of all index offenses. Likewise, aggravated assault has the highest rate of violent index offenses, with a rate of 370.7 per 100,000 persons. This rate is a 3.1% increase compared to 2016. The aggravated assault rate has increased about 24.2% since 2013.

Motor Vehicle Theft: With 19,885 offenses, motor vehicle thefts constituted 11.4% of property index offenses and 9.7% of all index offenses in 2017. Of all motor vehicle thefts, 69.4% of the stolen vehicles were automobiles and 19.3% were trucks and buses. The motor vehicle theft rate in 2017 was 325.3 per 100,000 persons, which is an increase of about 8.6% compared to 2016 and an increase of about 21.5% compared to 2013.

Please call 636-896-4020 for the criminal lawyers in Missouri of Boehmer Law to get your free consultation today.  We are ready to get fighting for you!

[1] MSHP Crime in Missouri 2017 Executive Summary, August 2018

The choice of an attorney is an important one and should not be based solely on advertising. The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. 

Boehmer Law voted TOP 3 Law Firm Favorite of St. Charles County, Missouri

Congratulations to the attorneys and staff of Boehmer Law of St. Charles, MO for being voted one of the top 3 Law Firm Favorites of St. Charles County Missouri.  "We are honored by this recognition of our attorneys and support staff", owner Eric L. Boehmer stated.  "We have been serving St. Charles County Missouri for over 17 years.  As a native of St. Charles County it is important to me to offer the Boehmer Law's legal services to our community", he continued.

Here is a link that we are asking you to go visit and vote Boehmer Law the #1 pick as a St. Charles County Favorite Law firm.  VOTE HERE:  http://nominations.flashflyer.com/

For more information about Boehmer Law visit www.boehmerlaw.com and you can set up a free consultation by calling 636-896-4020.

Congratulations to Eric L. Boehmer--Top 100 Trial Attorney Award

Boehmer Law would like to congratulate its owner and founder, Attorney Eric L. Boehmer for once again being awarded the National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Trial Lawyers Award.  The National Trial Lawyers is a professional organization composed of the premier trial lawyers from across the country who exemplify superior qualifications as civil plaintiff or criminal defense trial lawyers. This award is presented by The National Trial Lawyers are invitation-only organizations composed of the premier trial lawyers from each state or region who meet stringent qualifications as civil plaintiff and/or criminal defense trial lawyers. Selection is based on a thorough multi-phase objective and uniformly- applied process which includes peer nominations combined with third-party research. Membership is extended only to a select few of the most qualified attorneys from each state or region who demonstrate superior qualifications of leadership, reputation, influence, stature and public profile measured by objective and uniformly applied standards in compliance with state bar and national Rule 4-7.

Congratulations to Eric L. Boehmer, criminal attorney located in St. Charles, MO for being recognized for his work as a trial lawyer in the area of criminal defense. 

If you or someone you love is in need of legal help for criminal charges, please contact Boehmer Law to set a free consultation appointment by calling 636-896-4020.  For more information about Eric and our Missouri Law firm visit www.boehmerlaw.com.

Helping My Kids Deal with Divorce Part 3

Many times, during the separation and divorce process our Family Law Attorneys are asked, “What can I do to make this less traumatic for my child(ren)?”  At Boehmer Law, we recognize and understand that these changes affect the WHOLE family, especially the children.  Here are some helpful tips in helping your children through your divorce.  If you need a divorce attorney that understands what you are going through, call the divorce lawyers in St. Charles, MO at 636-896-4020 for a free consultation appointment.

Adjusting to a New Living Situation

Because divorce can be such a big change, adjustments in living arrangements should be handled gradually and explained well.  Advance warning is usually better than “surprises”.
Several types of living situations should be considered:

• one parent may have sole custody
• joint custody in which both legal and physical custody are shared
• joint custody where one parent has "tie-breaking" authority in certain medical or educational settings

Which one is right for your kids? Although some kids can thrive spending half their time with each parent, others seem to need the stability of having one "home" and visiting with the other parent.  Try to talk it out and find out what they feel may work best for them, especially teenagers who have busy lives.

Whatever arrangement you choose, your child's needs should come first. This is not a war where someone “wins”.  When deciding how to handle holidays, birthdays, and vacations, stay focused on what's best for the kids. It's important for parents to resolve these issues themselves and not ask the kids to choose.

During the preteen years, when kids become more involved with activities apart from their parents, they may need different schedules to accommodate their changing priorities. Ideally, kids benefit most from consistent support from both parents, but they may resist equal time-sharing if it interrupts school or their social lives. Try to be flexible.

Parenting Under Pressure

As much as possible, both parents should work to keep routines and discipline the same in both households. Similar expectations about bedtimes, rules, and homework will reduce anxiety, especially in younger children.  If one home has a bed time of 8 PM and the other has one at 10 PM, this can cause sleep disruption and behavioral issues, especially in smaller children.

Even though you can't enforce the rules in your ex-partner's home, stick to them in yours. Relaxing limits, especially during a time of change, tends to make kids insecure and less likely to recognize your parental authority later. Feeling guilty and buying things to replace love or letting kids act out is not in their best interests and can lead to problems down the road. Instead, you can lavish affection on them — kids don't get spoiled by too many hugs or comforting words.

When you and your former spouse can work together and communicate civilly for the benefit of your children, the original family unit can continue to be a source of strength, even if stepfamilies enter the picture.

Remember:

Recognize the signs of stress. Consult your kids' teachers, doctor, or a child therapist for guidance on how to handle specific problems you're concerned about.  Keep their teachers and coaches in the loop.  Listen to what they have to say as well.
Be patient with yourself and with your child. Emotional concerns, loss, and hurt following divorce take time to heal and this often happens in phases.  Go through the process and be there for your children—your actions will be how they set their emotions.

If you have any questions or want one of our divorce attorneys to review your situation, please call for a free consultation at 636-896-4020 today.

The choice of an attorney is an important one and should not be based solely on advertising. The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation.

Helping My Kids Deal with Divorce Part 2

Many times, during the separation and divorce process our Family Law Attorneys are asked, “What can I do to make this less traumatic for my child(ren)?”  At Boehmer Law, we recognize and understand that these changes affect the WHOLE family, especially the children.  Here are some helpful tips in helping your children through your divorce.  If you need a divorce attorney that understands what you are going through, call the divorce lawyers in St. Charles, MO at 636-896-4020 for a free consultation appointment.

Helping Kids Cope

It is common and very natural for some kids to hold out hope that their parents will someday get back together, even after what a divorce is has been explained to them.

Missing the loss of a family is normal, but over time both you and your kids will come to accept the new situation. So reassure them that it's OK to wish that mom and dad will reunite, but also explain the permanence of your decisions.
Here are some ways to help kids cope with the upset of a divorce:

• Encourage open and truthful conversations.  Children need to know that their feelings are important to both their parents and that they'll be taken seriously.
• Help them put their feelings into words.  Kids' behavior can often clue you in to their feelings of sadness or anger. Sometimes you or our ex-spouse maybe the “punching bag” for your child’s feelings, so be patient.  Be a good listener, even if it's hard or hurtful for you to hear what they have to say.
• Legitimize their feelings.  Saying "I know you feel sad now" or "I know it feels lonely without mom here" lets kids know that their feelings are valid. It's important to encourage kids to get it all out before you start offering ways to make it better.
• Offer support.  Let them know you are there for them.  Ask them what may help them get through what they are going through.  If they cannot verbalize their needs, offer suggestions. 
• Get help. Do not be afraid to find a support group, and talk to others who have gone through this. Getting help yourself sets a good example for your kids on how to make a healthy adjustment to this major change. It's very important not to lean on your kids for support. Older kids and those who are eager to please may try to make you feel better by offering a shoulder to cry on. No matter how tempting that is, it's best not to let them be the provider of your emotional support.

Take the high road.  Try your best to not resort to blaming or name-calling within earshot of your kids, no matter what the circumstances of the separation. This is especially important  where there have been especially hurtful events, like infidelity. Take care to keep letters, e-mails, and text messages in a secure location as kids will be naturally curious if there is a high-conflict situation going on at home.  Do not post your grievances on social media.

The Importance of Consistency

Consistency and routine can go a long way toward providing comfort and familiarity that can help your family during this major life change. When possible, minimize unpredictable schedules, transitions, or abrupt separations.
Especially during a divorce, kids will benefit from one-on-one time with each parent. No matter how inconvenient, try to accommodate your ex-partner as you figure out visitation schedules.
Behavioral changes are important to watch out for — any new or changing signs of moodiness; sadness; anxiety; school problems; or difficulties with friends, appetite, and sleep can be signs of a problem.  Older kids and teens may be vulnerable to risky behaviors such as alcohol and drug use, skipping school, and defiant acts.

Fighting in Front of the Kids

Although the occasional argument between parents is expected in any family, living in a battleground of continual hostility and unresolved conflict can place a heavy burden on a child. Screaming, fighting, arguing, or violence can make kids feel worried and afraid.
Talking with a mediator or divorce counselor can help couples air their grievances and hurt to each other in a way that doesn't harm their children. Though it may be difficult, working together in this way will spare kids the hurt caused by continued bitterness and anger.

In Part three we will discuss new living situations, and parenting under pressure.   If you have any questions or want one of our divorce attorneys to review your situation please call for a free consultation at 636-896-4020 today.

The choice of an attorney is an important one and should not be based solely on advertising. The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation.