Williford, McAllister, Jacobus & White, LLP

11/04/2021

A: Yes, a person can receive benefits as a divorced spouse on a former spouse’s Social Security record if:

• He or she was married to the former spouse for at least 10 years.
• Is at least age 62 years old.
• Is unmarried.
• Is not entitled to a higher Social Security benefit on his or her own record.
• The former spouse must also be entitled to receive his or her own retirement or disability benefit.

If the former spouse is eligible for a benefit, but has not yet applied for it, the divorced spouse can still receive a benefit if he or she meets the eligibility requirements above and has been divorced from the former spouse for at least two years.

Generally, benefits cannot continue to be paid if the divorced spouse remarries someone other than the former spouse, unless the latter marriage ends (by death, divorce, or annulment), or the marriage is to a person entitled to certain types of Social Security auxiliary or survivor's benefits. The benefits paid to a divorced spouse will not affect the benefit amount paid to other family members who receive benefits on the same record.

10/29/2021

Thank you so much for your review, Brenda!

10/21/2021

While it isn’t necessary to hire a lawyer to get divorced, it is highly recommended. The legal process is complicated, and being without a lawyer could lead to problems … especially if your spouse hires one.

Learn more: https://buff.ly/3yZd8tB

Don’t risk taking the wrong advice or making a mistake when filing your divorce. Call us at (601) 991-2000 today.

When looking for a divorce lawyer, finding the right fit is important. Referrals and interviewing different attorneys can offer critical insight.

10/14/2021

Times are tough and being a business owner isn’t easy. Here are six reasons why you need a business lawyer on your side: https://buff.ly/2Yjy6qr

Let us help you navigate the legal matters that affect your business. Call us at (601) 991-2000 today.

Running a business is never easy. With today’s modern innovations, there are many things to do to ensure smooth operations. A business lawyer can help.

10/07/2021

A: There is a presumption under Mississippi law that the best interests of children will best be preserved by remaining with the surviving parent unless:

(1) the surviving parent abandoned the children

(2) the conduct of the surviving parent is so immoral as to be detrimental to the children, or

(3) the surviving parent is unfit mentally or otherwise to have custody of the children.

Unless a family member or other third party comes forward, petitions the court, and makes the requisite showing, the surviving parent will usually become the custodial parent.

Even so, we recommend that our clients have a Last Will and Testament naming his or her preferred custodian of the minor children in the event of the client’s death. A Last Will and Testament may also be used to direct who will manage your children’s inheritance or life insurance benefits in the event of your death.

If you do not have a Last Will and Testament, or your will has not been updated recently, call us at (601) 991-2000 today to set up a consultation.

09/30/2021

Did you know that during a divorce, a life insurance policy may be considered marital property? Read more: https://buff.ly/3bLCOBr

It is in everyone’s best interest to sort these matters beforehand, especially if children are involved. Contact us at (601) 991-2000 for assistance.

09/23/2021

Congratulations! You’ve grown your business and are now ready to hire your first employee. Before you start signing paychecks, learn more about the six things business owners should do first: https://buff.ly/3ABUaem

Our lawyers can assist you with employment law compliance from the beginning. Call us today for a consultation.

09/16/2021

Are you considering adopting a child in Mississippi? Here’s what you should know: https://buff.ly/3yxpXeL

Don’t navigate this process on your own. Give us a call and let us assist you.

09/09/2021

Thank you for your kind review, John!

If you need assistance with estate planning, call us at (601) 991-2000 today.

09/06/2021

Happy Labor Day! Our offices are closed today to allow our employees to enjoy the holiday. We will reopen tomorrow morning at 8 a.m.

09/02/2021

A: Under Mississippi law, child support payments may terminate when the child is “emancipated,” which occurs when the child turns 21 or marries. In Mississippi, a court may also find that emancipation has occurred if:

• The child discontinues full-time enrollment in school after turning 18 unless he or she is disabled

• Voluntarily moves from the home of the custodial parent and establishes independent living arrangements

• Obtains full-time employment and discontinues educational endeavors prior to turning 21

• Joins the military and serves on a full-time basis

• Is convicted and incarcerated for a felony

• Cohabits with another person without the approval of the non-custodial parent

Our lawyers have experience in family law matters. If you believe your child’s circumstances fit into any of the categories mentioned above, contact us at (601) 991-2000.