David Jean Couch & Associates, P.C. 2860 Church Street
East Point, GA 30344
 (404) 766-4953
408 Stevens Entry
Peachtree City, GA 30269
(770) 487-1716
 
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Real Estate
Municipal Law
Planning and Zoning
Divorce
Bankruptcy
Tax Lax
Wills and Estate/Probate

 

Frequently Asked Questions

I don't understand a "no fault" divorce. Isn't it always someone's fault?
Not in legal terminology. A "no fault" divorce is any divorce where the suing spouse does not have to prove fault by the other spouse.

Then what happens when both spouses are "at fault"?
Generally, a court will grant the spouse least at fault a divorce when both parties have disclosed grounds for divorce. This is called "comparative rectitude."

I am being sued for a "no fault" divorce. How do I stop this divorce?
An objection to the other spouse's suit for divorce is an irreconcilable difference that would justify the divorce. There are several defenses to a "fault" divorce, however.

I can't stand these harassing phone calls from bill collectors anymore. Can a lawyer make them stop?
Our attorneys can file for bankruptcy for you, which sets up what is called an "automatic stay." This automatic stay will prohibit virtually all your creditors from taking action to collect on your debts.

Won't I lose my property if I file bankruptcy?
Not if you file for a Chapter 13 bankruptcy.

Does the State of Georgia recognize Common Law Marriages?
Yes, if that marriage was created before January 1, 1997.

I don't think the zoning regulations are being applied properly. Where do I find County Zoning Codes in Georgia?
Actually, there is a copy online at the Municipal Code Corporation of Tallahassee, FL at www.municode.com

There should also be a copy in the law library of your local courthouse. The Clerk of the Real Estate Record Room in your county may also have a copy.

How can I appeal a zoning issue?
It is best to consult legal counsel for this type of appeal. In Georgia, each county may name its planning commission, board of appeals, etc.

I have a very small contracting company. Can you help me understand the municipal laws in Georgia?
The attorneys at David Jean Couch & Associates, P.C. are experienced in the municipal laws affecting public bidding, contracting, and taxes. We will be glad to help.

What do I need for a legal will in Georgia?
You must be at least 14 years old, and have the mental capacity to realize that you are making a will disposing of your property. The will must be in writing* and witnessed by 2 or more witnesses in a specific legal manner. An attorney is important to the preparation of a will as formal execution and proper format is as important as the content of the Will. * unless made on your deathbed

I am a student. What is my deadline for filing tax forms?
If you are an employee and received wages subject to U.S. income tax withholding, you must file your tax forms by April 15th of each year. . Otherwise, you must file your tax forms by June 15th of each year.. Individuals filing only Form 8843 have until June 15th of each year to file.

Will my estate have to pay my taxes after I die?
Probably not. There is a federal estate tax at your death only if your property is worth more than a certain amount, and that amount varies by the year of death. Property left to a spouse is exempt from taxes if the spouse is a U.S. citizen. There is no estate tax assessed on any property left to a tax-exempt charity.

Can I avoid federal estate taxes?
Yes, many times you can. The following are some examples of items that are not normally taxed:
     - Tax-free gifts (up to $10,000 per calendar year per recipient)
     - Tuition or medical bill payments
     - Gifts to a charity (reduces the size of your estate and the eventual estate tax bill)
     - An AB Trust (property is left in trust for children, but gives the surviving spouse the right to use it
       for life)
     - A "QTIP" Trust (postpones estate taxes until the second spouse dies)
     - Charitable Trusts
     - Life Insurance Trusts

What is a Living Will?
This is a written instruction to a physician to withhold or withdraw life-sustaining procedures in the event of a terminal condition.


© 2001- David Jean Couch & Associates. Attorneys at Law Serving Peachtree City, Atlanta, Georgia: Real Estate Law, Municipal, Family, Planning / Zoning, Tax, Estate Planning, Wills, Probate
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