Close up of a dictionary definition for "Justice of the peace"

Common Legal Terms

Almost every field comes with its own set of jargon that really only makes sense to the people in that field. The law is certainly no exception. We’d like to demystify some of that jargon. Below is a list of 50 common legal terms you might…
A photo of a neon coffee cup sign hanging in a window.

Franchising v. Licensing: An Entrepreneur’s Dilemma

For those wishing to start a business and work for themselves, there are a number of perplexing decisions that have to be made right up front. One of the most important decisions that you will have to face is whether to license a product, service…
The inside of a home's front room. There is a staircase and a set of doors with nice windows.

Foreclosure and Rent-to-Own Agreements

, , ,
Rent-to-Own Agreements have become more popular in Pennsylvania in the last several years as an alternative method of financing for buyers who are unable to get traditional mortgages. Sellers sometimes offer these agreements as a way to obtain…
Close up on of a gavel resting on a sound block while a judge signs papers in the background.

Appealing a Custody Order

,
What do you do when a judge gets the custody decision wrong? How can you appeal a bad decision that is going to hurt your children or your family? Under Pennsylvania law there are typically two types of appeals that you take from custody orders. Two…
A photo of a band playing in front of a large crowd. There are bright stage lights and fog in the air.

Making Your Band into a Brand: Does Your Band Need an LLC?

, ,
While it’s not strictly necessary, an LLC can help your band. Whether you’re rocking out with your audience in a packed concert or recording a new song in a quiet studio, there are certain risks and responsibilities your band may encounter.…
A woman signing a financial document

Do I have to list all my creditors when I file for bankruptcy?

When filing for bankruptcy, a consumer is required to list all their creditors in their bankruptcy petition and schedules. This includes creditors for secured debts, such as a mortgage or car loan, and unsecured debts, such as credit card debt…
A close up of a one dollar bill

Can filing for bankruptcy disrupt my social security benefits?

Because of bankruptcy’s reputation, it’s normal to have questions about filing. When it comes to your social security benefits, you don’t have to worry. Individuals who file for bankruptcy are typically able to keep their social security…
A close up of a set of scales on a wooden table

Six Dos and Don'ts when Getting Sued

, ,
Knock, knock! The Sheriff shows up at your door and hands you papers. “You’re being sued,” he quietly explains, and perhaps asks you to sign something noting you were served. As you close the door behind you, a number of thoughts may drift…
A gavel resting on money

What is a bankruptcy creditors meeting?

It sounds a lot worse than it is—a meeting of all your creditors with the chance to ask you questions under oath. A meeting of the creditors, also known as a 341 meeting or a section 341 meeting, is a formal meeting that occurs in the context…
A light blue house

Can filing for bankruptcy save your home from foreclosure?

, ,
Filing for bankruptcy can provide a homeowner with a way to save their home from foreclosure. When a homeowner files for bankruptcy, an automatic stay is put into effect, which temporarily stops most collection actions, including foreclosure…