Can My Spouse Use Recorded Conversations and Messages in Court?
April 12, 2018 | Elizabeth A. SchadingWhen you are going through a divorce from your spouse, it can be a long and drawn out process, as well as distressing for everyone involved. Unfortunately, some marriages can break down and turn nasty in proceedings, especially if there has been infidelity or disagreement over assets. This means that the other spouse may turn to different forms of evidence to prove their point and things can get heated. One of the common questions that arises in divorce proceedings is whether recorded conversations and messages can be used in court against the other person. In the modern and digital age, we leave an electronic trail where everything we say is collected and cannot easily disappear. This means that spouses want to use social media posts, text messages and audio clips against the other party in a divorce as evidence. So, the question is; is my spouse allowed to use these recorded media and messages against me? Under federal law, wiretapping is illegal. This is when you secretly monitor someone’s phone call and eavesdrop on their conversation. The people that are involved in the phone call are not aware you are listening and that is what makes it illegal. Of course, forms of hacking into your phone or social media accounts to reveal…
Read MoreBGS Holds Annual Meeting as it Celebrates 80 Years of Legal Service
March 29, 2018 | Barna, Guzy & Steffen, Ltd.A Tradition of Service Since 1938: Barna, Guzy & Steffen Ltd. Celebrates 80 Years of Legal Service Barna, Guzy and Steffen, Ltd (BGS) is a full service law firm providing clients with the personal and professional services they deserve since 1938. The firm was founded by the late Honorable Joseph E. Wargo. Wargo graduated from University of Minnesota Law School in 1938 and he opened his law office in Columbia Heights, where he was raised. Wargo left his office and took a tour of duty with the Navy for World War II. He was later joined by Peter Barna (1953) and Robert Guzy (1958). They moved their combined practice into a remodeled grocery store building in Columbia Heights where they practiced for many years. They merged with Merrill, Hynes and Giancola for a time becoming Barna, Guzy, Merrill, Hynes and Giancola after Wargo left to become a district judge. The firm moved to Coon Rapids in 1991 after a merger with Anoka firm Steffen Munstentieger. Coon Rapids was chosen as a central location between Anoka and Columbia Heights, with the benefit of being close to major highways and the courthouse in Anoka. Over the years, the firm has had mergers, moved, and grown into what is now a 30-attorney law firm serving a…
Read MoreSeven Reasons You Need an Attorney for your Personal Injury Case
March 28, 2018 | Adriel B. VillarrealUnfortunately, after being in an accident, there is a lot more that you have to deal with than just recovering from your injuries. When you have been in an accident that wasn’t your fault, you will want to make a personal injury claim. But, it can be confusing knowing where to start. That is why it is always recommend to have a personal injury attorney by your side. Why do you need to get a personal injury attorney? Read on to find out seven reasons why. Provide Professional Advice Let’s face it; the law isn’t always so easy to understand. When you have been involved in an accident, you are going to need professional advice to make sure everything goes smoothly. A personal injury attorney will be able to answer all of your questions, as well as advise on any insurance policies or whether you can claim damages. Handle the Investigation A personal injury attorney can deal with the investigation and what you can claim. They know the right questions to ask and who should be held liable. This is especially useful if there are multiple parties involved. They will be able to look at your case objectively. Save You Time There is a lot involved in a personal injury claim. From…
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