Livingston Reporting - page 259

Finding A Divorce Attorney To Represent You

 

Where do you turn when you are faced with divorce?  Most people don’t really know the legal ins and outs.  Navigating the difficult process of divorce requires that you hire an expert divorce attorney, preferably one that is specialized in all aspects of family law.  Finding the right divorce attorney is key in a faster, less expensive divorce.  People that complain of messy, drawn out, expensive divorces most likely did not take the time to seek out the support of the right divorce attorney for their situation.  In this article we will give you tips on finding and choosing the right divorce lawyer.

Six Steps When Choosing The Perfect Divorce Attorney

1)      Be Practical

During a divorce this can be a really lofty goal.  It is important to maintain your emotional balance throughout the divorce and understand that the only purpose in your divorce is to divide your joint assets and solve issues in child custody.  Anger, aggravation, pain, sadness and frustration are only a few of the emotions that will strike you throughout this process but don’t let those take over.  You need to be sensible when it comes to the demands you place on your attorney.

2)      Pay Attention To Your Goal

The ultimate goal is to get a divorce without any depreciation to your lifestyle. The end goal is to finalize your divorce, split assets and walk away fairly unscathed.  When children are involved the end goal may be a bit different but generally remains the same.

3)      Identify What You Want

Identifying what you want is not only about marital assets, custody agreements and alimony; it also has to do with the type of divorce you want.  If you are looking at getting the most out of your spouse your divorce will be different than a divorce in which both spouses are willing to compromise and mediate the details of their divorce without litigation.  Different situations require different types of divorce attorneys.  You will want to make sure your attorney is one that can help you get exactly what you want out of your divorce.

4)      Consult With At Least Three Different Divorce and Family Law Attorneys

When searching for an attorney it is best to go online and look for divorce attorneys that work in your area.  Once you have reviewed their websites set up consultations with the three that best look like they will fit with what you are looking for out of your divorce.  Once you meet with them in person you will get a better feel for which on is perfect for your needs.

5)      Be Wary Of Red Flags

Don’t fall for a divorce attorney that tells you everything you want to hear to close the deal.  Look for red flags that make you uncomfortable and follow your gut feelings.  You won’t always hear what you want and that is actually the type of divorce attorney you need; one that will tell you how it is even when it isn’t what you want to hear.

6)      Choose The Divorce Attorney That Will Represent You

The final step is to choose the attorney that will represent you and your best interest.

Longton DM, a subsidiary of Longton Law Offices is a divorce attorney specializing in Men/Dad’s in divorce. For experienced representation throughout the divorce process in Trenton, Michigan and the surrounding area you can find more information at http://www.michigandivorcelawyerfordad.com.

Benefits Of Using A Mortgage Broker Continued

In our last installment we discussed a few of the mishaps that can occur when looking for a home loan without the help of a mortgage broker.  In this follow up article we will discuss some more ways that mortgage brokers assist lenders through the minor bumps that can occur when seeking to get a new mortgage or refinancing an existing one.

One common complaint that lenders have when it comes to providing a mortgage is that the applicant has an insufficient amount of money in savings, a down payment that is too small or even income requirements below what they require.  When using a mortgage broker they will seek out lenders that offer mortgages within the limitations you present.  Since they work with a myriad of lenders they know ahead of time what minimum requirements each has in place therefore can weed out lenders that don’t fit within what you are able to bring to the table.

Another issue that arises that can throw a red flag is a recent change of jobs or status of employment.  To certain lenders this is viewed as a lack of stability and therefore less likely to finance a mortgage for you.  Mortgage brokers understand that life is unpredictable and can offer ways around such events.  They can assist you in finding a lender that is able to calculate the repayment in a more favorable manner or a lender that will accept the word of your employer, in letter form, as proof that your position is secure.

Lenders are looking to offer mortgages to those of us that have regular incomes and saving patterns.  In the six months before you start the process of looking for a new home or considering a refinance it is important that you begin saving regularly and obtain a position where your income is stable.  If you are self employed this may be something that is difficult.  Often times you have highs and lows with income and savings.  A mortgage broker can help you to obtain a mortgage from a lender that specializes in small business owner mortgages or even find a lender who will accept gift deposits or parental help as collateral on your new home loan.

Does your partner have undesirable credit but you need their income to be considered to afford the home of your dreams?  If this occurs a mortgage broker will look into securing a mortgage for you from a nonconforming lender.  What happens is that you are offered a mortgage at a higher interest rate then what is available to lenders with a good credit history.  After three years in your home, making regular payments thus hopefully improving your partners credit score you can then refinance your home loan to a lower interest rate.

Mortgage brokers tend to be able to work the system in favor of the borrower.  This is especially important when you are looking to obtain a mortgage or refinance with less than perfect conditions.  They are familiar with the different requirements set by lenders and will be able to work with what you can offer to secure you a mortgage that meets both your needs as well as the lenders.

Cross Country Mortgage in Brighton, Michigan provide mortgage services for clients including new home loans, refinancing, reversed mortgages, new purchase home mortgages and home equity loans to the entire Livingston County area including Brighton, Howell and Livingston County. Cross Country Mortgage Brighton, MI at http://brightoncrosscountry.com/.

Gift Giving Made Simple

 

Buying gifts for women is often a difficult task for even the most attentive man.  Men often are taking a complete stab in the dark when it comes to surprising their significant other.  It is best to take the guess work out of gift giving.

If you find yourself always at a loss when it is time to purchase a gift for your loved one there are a few things you can do to help yourself.  One of those things is to start a small notebook with ideas that come to you as you are out and about together.  We all drop hints that we hope our loved ones are taking note of.  The problem lies within the fact that we don’t have the ability to recall them when we need to.  Keeping a small notebook around to write down those hints when they are dropped will help you when the time comes that you need to purchase a gift.

Another tip that my spouse and I find helpful is to send little emails when we think of something we want but would never purchase for ourselves.  When you are looking online you often find items that spark your interest and that you think about owning.  This is the perfect time to take a snap shot and send a little note to your partner; they will appreciate it as will you when you see those little reminders in your email when you need gift ideas for them.

There are a few qualified standbys’ that always work when you find yourself in a bind.  Of course it depends on the occasion but there are a few gifts that always work, ideas that won’t burden your pocket book and won’t need to be returned.

A sentimental gift that always works is a card with a note attached.  Some men assume this is a cheap cop out type of gift but as a woman we don’t see it as that.  A hand written note inside a lovely card is the best gift we can receive.  Tell us how you feel about us, explain the thousands of reasons you love us as a couple and express your feelings about our relationship.  Better yet make a box of small notes for us to open on a variety of occasions.  Expressing your feelings in a written message is one of the most romantic gestures ever.

Another gift that never gets old is jewelry.  Honestly anything works with us; it doesn’t have to be diamonds and gold.  Shopping for jewelry online you can truly find a plethora of options in jewelry.  Even small pieces of costume jewelry are amazing gifts for us.  We love jewelry.  It accessorizes all aspects of us and brings happiness.  Chocolate, flowers, perfume and gift certificates work as well, trust me!

DaRoche Jewelers is on online jewelry company with a local feel.  You will find a variety of options in jewelry, including custom diamond solitaire engagement rings, online at http://www.darochejewelers.com/.

Roofing Contractors Recommend Proper Roof Ventilation

One of the most important things when it comes to your shingle roof is the ventilation.  Nothing ages your shingles more than extra heat buildup in the summer and cold winter weather.  No matter what the weather is outside, with proper ventilation and air circulation you can prevent many problems that can occur with shingle roofs.  If you see any leaking, blistering, distortion, curling, rotting or wetness contact a roofing contractor for a detailed inspection of your homes roof and ventilation systems.  Installing a new roof without proper ventilation in place voids any manufactures warranties.  Be sure the problems with ventilation are fully taken care of before repairing or replacing your homes shingling.

Speaking of warranties it is important that homeowners understand what is and is not covered under workmanship guarantees.  A workmanship guarantee covers problems that are a direct result of poor workmanship.  This is issues that arise due to insufficient nails used to secure the shingles, poor shingle alignment, overexposed shingles and improperly installed vents and flashing.   The workmanship guarantee does not cover issues that come from condensation, wind or hail damage, ice dams, defects in materials, issues with the roof structure or interior cracks or damage that occurs with the installation of the new shingle roof.

Shingle roofs, if taken care of and well maintained can last anywhere from ten to twenty plus years.  They do however need to be cared for.  When homeowners notice something that looks unfamiliar they need to call in a roofing contractor to evaluate the issue.  The winter season can bring issues that need to be evaluated such as ice dams.  Ice dams are a huge issue that comes from the thawing and freezing of snow.  As the snow melts the water runs down the shingles often refreezing at the edge of the roof.  This process repeats itself over time eventually building up substantial ice dams.  When the water freezes and water continues to run down it causes backups underneath the shingles.  This then creates an ice dam which can eventually lead to interior leaking.

Ice dams can be avoided with proper ventilation and maintenance.  If however you do notice that your roof has ice dams it is time to call in a roofing expert to evaluate the situation.  The first thing they will do is to look into what is causing the ice damns to form in the first place.  Is there leakage in the attic?  If so they will look into installing a vapor barrier and sealing air leaks throughout the attic.  Another thing to consider is the amount of insulation in the attic.  If the attic is not kept cool enough the snow will melt.  Proper ventilation will allow cool air into the space reducing the effects of melting snow, therefore decreasing the likelihood of ice dams forming.  Once ice dams occur it is difficult to remove them.  A licensed roofing contractor may attempt to manually remove the ice buildup after the issues are resolved.  This process requires detailed care in order to avoid shingle damage.

A properly installed shingle roof with adequate ventilation is something all homeowners can have by hiring a qualified roofing contractor to inspect their current roof.  Once your inspection has happened be sure to fix and repair areas that were not up to par before a new roof is installed.  This will ensure that with regular maintenance your new roof will live up to the expected lifespan of the shingles.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs.  You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

Understanding Panel Switches and Panel Boards

Electrical components are a part of our everyday lives in both residential and commercial use.  The problem is that most of us don’t understand the basic concepts that are used within the industry.  This leads to inefficiency and delay when an electrical system fails and is in need of repair.  Having a basic understanding of the various electrical components that are used in everyday life will help in cases of a system failure.  The more you know the easier it will be to help come to a resolution to get the system restored.

One component that is often ignored is the panel board even though they are used throughout in providing electricity in residential, commercial and industrial facilities.  Without the panel board, often referred to as the power distribution panel, electrical power could not safely be distributed through the facility be it your home or business.

In residential use the power we receive is purchased from a local utility company and is processed into our homes through a meter device located on the outside of our homes.  The power enters the system and is distributed from there to various circuit systems throughout the home.  This is how electrical power is distributed to various parts of the house to power electrical outlets, lights and appliances that are located throughout the house.

In commercial and industrial settings the power distribution is a bit more complex.  The system is complex and consists of a device to measure power consumption, disconnects, switching devices, conductors and transformers.  The power is then distributed through various switchboards, transformers and panel boards.  A distribution system that is solid and works well is something that doesn’t just happened it is planned out and carefully put together.  The distribution center must be engineered carefully in order to safely and adequately provide electrical services to the current electrical load and possible expansion.

A panel board is a single panel or group of panel units that forms a single unit of bus plugs, switches and over current devices.  They are used to control light, heat or power circuits.  They are often placed in a cabinet or a cutout box and can be mounted in or against a wall.  The panel board is only accessible from the front.

Electrical components such as transformers, switches, breaker panels, panel boards and more are a part of our everyday lives.  They are hidden and as long as we are receiving uninterrupted supplies of electricity we aren’t concerned with how it is occurring.  This is incredibly naive though because we know that any system with multiple components will eventually break down and need to be replaced.  With a little bit of knowledge of electrical components and electrical systems you will be well on your way to understanding what part of the puzzle has broken down.  This will help you narrow down what needs to be replaced within the system to fix the issue.

J&P Electrical is a full service electrical equipment company.  At J&P, we supply contractors, end users and supply houses with new surplus, quality reconditioned and obsolete electrical equipment. Contact us today at https://jpelectricalcompany.com for all of your bus plug, circuit breaker, switchboard, fuses, disconnects and more.

 

Aluminum Fence Installation With Ease

In our first installment on aluminum fencing installation we talked a lot about how easy the process can be.  The more detail you put into the planning process the easier the actual labor of installing the fence will be.  Aluminum fence is lightweight and easy to maneuver which helps make it so simple to position.  In our last piece we went into specifics on how detailed planning and patience make putting your fence in a whole lot easier.

The next phase to in the installation process after you have properly planned is the process of preparing the landscape for the new fence.  You must first mark the placement of the aluminum fence.  This can easily be done by hammering in metal stakes and stringing a line between them.  Make the line as taut as possible.  From here marking the location for the posts is the next step.  Adjust the location of the post holes according to the size of the panel.  Measure twice and cut once is a key element in setting the location of the posts.

The string that is already staked out will help guide you throughout the entire process.  It will provide you with a straight edge reference point.  Stay consistent in the placement of your posts.  None of the posts should touch or push your string as this will push the straight edge in one direction or the other which will mess up the continuity of your fence line.

Dig a few holes at a time; don’t dig them all at once.  The holes should be about six inches wide and between twenty four to forty two inches deep.  Again don’t dig all of the holes at once, dig as you go.  Check to ensure that the posts are positioned plumb and true.  It is important that the post is level as the concrete sets.  If they become unlevel your gate may not function as it should.

The actual panel installation is quick and easy.  Start with attaching one section of fence.  This can be done by sliding the notched horizontal rail of the fence into the punched hole of the post.  A screw through the post into the rail will securely attach the rail to the post.  Continue to level each post and pour concrete into each hole that you dig.  It is critical that you level one post and one panel at a time to complete the entire section before moving on.  To truly secure each post add dirt over the concrete and pack it in tight.

As you move on be sure to check the previous sections.  Add on a section of fence and additional posts while continuing to go back to sections of aluminum fence panels that are in place and make sure they stay level and maintained.  Tweak as you go and adjust as needed.  Not only should you use tools to make sure the fence is in level but also be sure to use your sight and personal judgment to adjust as needed.

If the fence ends on a corner it is important to remember that the horizontal rails of the next panel is notched to fit directly into the post.  Once each post is in place and the fence panels are set into place the post caps need to be snapped into place.  You may need a rubber mallet to place them but will not need screws to keep them in place.  Be gentle if you use a mallet so that you don’t damage the post cap material.

Next you will install the gate.  Make sure it is attached and latches correctly.  The gate may take a bit of patience to get into place and working correctly.  Make sure the swinging of the gate is in the direction you want it to be.  Install the hinges using screws and level out the gate.  After the cement is dry and only then is it okay to start using the fence.

With the right tools, a lot of patience and solid directions your aluminum fence should be in place, installed and ready for use after ten to twenty hours after you begin putting it in to place.

iFence USA offers the widest variety of maintenance-free, no-rust aluminum fences and gates in the industry! Whether you are a pool contractor, a building contractor, an architect, a landscaping professional, or a “do-it-yourself” homeowner looking for exceptional value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying wholesale aluminum fences shipped factory-direct to your home or business anywhere in America from www.iFenceUSA.com!

Marketing Benefits of Shrink Sleeve Labeling

Effective marketing is what sells your product.  From small business to large corporations, millions of dollars is spent on marketing your company’s product to consumers.  One of the most successful ways a company can do this is through their company’s label.  Attaching pieces of your marketing plan directly to your product using shrink sleeve labels is a popular option today.

Shrink sleeves are a popular type of labeling option is because it offers a three hundred and sixty degree space to market your product.  This is three hundred and sixty degrees of space to design, print and place valuable product information.  The benefits that are had with shrink sleeve marketing is part of the reason you see soda bottles, laundry detergent, shampoos and more using this popular technology for labeling.

If you are looking for a label option that will fit over any product no matter the shape or size, shrink sleeves is your best choice.  Literally any shape, even princess shaped bubble bath can be covered using shrink sleeve labels.  Finding a quality manufacturer to create your label is important as well.  You want to make sure that the label when applied fits properly and that quality graphics are used to create the design.  The quality of your label will vary a great deal between vendors so choose wisely.

Another benefit that shrink sleeves offer to both producers and consumers is that it is environmentally friendly.  You will find that often shrink sleeves are partially made from recyclable materials and are recyclable themselves.

The color of the container is not important with shrink sleeves.  Whether you choose to use a colored bottle and a clear shrink sleeve or a clear bottle and colored shrink sleeve the contents of the product will be visible.

If your company or brand offers contests or likes to give away free samples with their products shrink sleeves are a widely used option.  The material used in shrink sleeves make it easy for the label to be tore off and turned in for a prize or discount.  Free samples are easily enclosed within the packaging because of the flexibility and stretch of the materials used.

One of the best benefits for producers and consumers is the cost savings.  It allows producers to offer their products at a lower cost, saving consumers money, while maintaining the level of profits needed to continue offering a successful product line.  Shrink sleeves have so many benefits over other options in labeling.  They offer protection, cost savings and a lot of room to market the benefits of your company’s products.

At Anchor Printing, we take pride in offering our clients cut & stack labeling, pressure sensitive labels, roll-fed labeling, shrink sleeves as well as flexible packaging options. Contact us today at http://anchorprinting.com for all of your label design, printing and packaging needs.

Tips To Help You Hire An Experienced Roofing Contractor

A professional roofing contractor is the individual you need to call when looking for advice on your home’s roof. In many situations it is advisable that homeowners don’t think about doing roof repairs, roofing maintenance or new roof installation on their own. Doing work on the roof can put the owners of the home in an unsafe predicament. Experts in roofing have the expertise, the tools and everything to make the job safe and predictable.

As you consider a roofing contractor it is wise to take into account all of the services that they can provide. Consider asking if they can be hired for the installation of gutters, added insulation, waterproofing, chimney stacks and other roof maintenance when repairing your roof or putting a new roof on your home.

As you are looking to hire a roofing contractor for your roof repair or new roof installation here are some things to keep in mind. Experience is the number one thing you need to consider. The contractor and company’s experience should be looked at as this is what helps to ensure your job requirements are fulfilled. The more experience in a variety of scenarios that your roofing contractor has the better prepared they will be to handle whatever your roofing situation throws at them.

Next check out their portfolio and see what their work looks like. Call on their referrals and ask questions. Find out what they liked about his work, what they didn’t like, figure out what the role of the homeowner plays in the process and find out if they would hire them again. Having a solid idea of what working with this individual roofing contractor is like will help ease your mind as you make decisions on who you hire.

Compare the quotes that you have been given from several contractors that you have contacted. The cost of the work and materials is not the only thing that is important. Check the company’s warranties and workmanship guarantees as this also will help play a role in deciding upon a roofing company to work with. If you are undecided between two individuals these things will come into play. If the cost is equivalent, the workmanship similar and your feel for working with both is the same then a deciding factor can be based on what they offer to clients after the roof is installed. A roofing contractor that stands behind his craftsmanship and the materials he works with is one that you can trust to provide you with quality roof repairs or a perfectly installed new roof.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs. You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

The Many Benefits Of Shopping Online For Jewelry

Shopping online has so many benefits.  People are buying everything from furniture to toilet paper online.  With the convenience of shopping from your home it is possible to make more significant purchases such as jewelry including wedding and engagement bands.  When you are looking to buying jewelry online there are a few basic guideline to live by to make sure you are getting exactly what you are paying for.

When you are shopping for jewelry online the process can not only be safe but completely worthwhile as well as long as you take some precautions before making the purchase.  Before you buy the piece compare items between online locations.  You will be sure to get the best price and can work with a trusted jeweler.  Call the number on the website and talk with the owner before you purchase a piece if you want to.  Calling the jeweler is another way to ensure you are buying from someone who will be there to answer your questions should they arise.

Tips For Buying Jewelry Online

1.       Understand the Companies Return Policy

Shopping online requires a larger amount of responsibility on the buyers end. Once you have located a piece of jewelry you like it is important to look into the jewelers return policy.  It is important that you only purchase jewelry from a store that offers at least a thirty day, money back guarantee for returning pieces that were purchased online.  Remember that pieces that have been altered in any manner, sizing, engraving or what not may have special restrictions.  Make sure to read the fine print or call the customer service number to get clarification.

2.       How Available Is The Company

The company should be completely transparent.  You should be able to locate a phone number, address and email address on the website easily.  Look not only for a defined contact page but also an about us page.  Find out who the company is that you are buying from before you make a purchase.  Clearly see how the company defines doing business.  Take a look at the company’s blog pages and social media pages.  If you can’t find out a lot of information without having to dig deeply it is probably not the most trustworthy place to purchase jewelry from.

3.       Check The Websites Security

Be sure the company that you are working with is secure when it comes to handling your credit card information.  Ask if you are unsure if the company is PCI complaint, which means the website’s server and internal networks are scanned regularly for vulnerabilities.  This is a large indicator of how they ultimately run their entire business.

4.       Purchase With A Credit Card That Backs Your Purchases

When you are buying anything online it is important to make sure that you make your purchase with a credit card that will back your purchases.  Many credit card companies now a days will offer you protection against purchase you make with the credit card if they prove to not be as described or for other reasons that the product does not live up to your expectations.

Shopping online is fun, easy and convenient.  Take your time to full research the company and jewelry products you purchase shopping online.  This will guarantee a successful purchase each and every time you shop online.

DaRoche Jewelers is on online jewelry company with a local feel.  You will find a variety of options in jewelry, including custom diamond solitaire engagement rings, online at http://www.darochejewelers.com/.

Leaving Computer Repairs To The Professionals

After repairing hundreds of computers it is evident that the most common computer issues arise when clueless computer users try to navigate fixing their computer issues on their own.  Many people don’t realize how delicate computer systems are.   When doing repairs on your computer you are basically performing surgery.  Would you ever try to perform surgery on one of your children or pets?  Probably not, right?  The same should be true when it comes to repairing your pc.  Allowing a professional computer technician to work on your computer allows you to be confident that the repairs will be completed correctly.  You also don’t have to worry about other issues occurring from the repairs that are completed.

Here are some tips to keep your computer in tip top shape.

1)      General computer maintenance and yearly tune ups on your system help to prevent major complications and computer repairs later on.  Taking proper care of your machine will help to keep your computer running longer and faster.  Don’t download extra tool bars or allow random pop ups to download software to your computer.  All that does is bog your computer down and possibly infect your system with malware.

2)      It’s called a lap top but that doesn’t mean it should be set on your lap while you are using it.  Using your laptop on a comforter or other cushy surface will restrict air circulation and cause the computer to overheat.  Use the nubs on the base of the computer to place the laptop on a hard surface.  You can purchase special that have a cushy base with a hard top to use especially for when you want to use your lap top in bed.

3)      Another thing that many lap top users do is put their laptop into the carrying case before the computer has completely shut down.  This is hard on your computers hard drive and memory.  Wait until the computer has shut down completely before moving it about and placing it in a bag.

4)      Laptops work best if they are not left plugged in at all times.  Leaving a laptop plugged in at all times diminishes the life of the battery and does not allow it to function as it is intended.  Try taking your computer off the charger at least two to three times a week and use the battery as the only source of power.  This will ensure the computer is being worked in the manner it was intended to and will increase the longevity of the battery life and performance of the system.

5)      Dust is another frequent issue with computers.  This is something that can easily be avoided with yearly tune ups.  If you see that your system is getting a bit bogged down with dirt and dust take it in and have the system tuned up.  Never try to blow the dust out on your own at home.  This can lead to dust clogging up areas that are important within the computer system.

Computer repairs are meant to be accomplished by computer technicians just as surgery is to be performed by surgeons.  Be sure to really understand and know what you are doing before you attempt any computer repairs at home and realize that you are probably causing yourself a bigger headache for the technician who has to fix your repairs later on.

Computers Plus Service, in Brighton Michigan, provides a wide range of valuable services for residential computer repair as well as a variety of commercial computer services to the entire Livingston County area including Howell, Brighton and the surrounding areas.  You can find out more about the services offered by CPS at http://www.cpsmi.com.