by Karl Voigt, Esquire As many of our readers know, we have for years encouraged our clients to consult with the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR). OVR can help a disabled worker re-enter the workforce. Many of our clients have been reeducated with the counseling and financial assistance of OVR. I checked up with our … Continue reading The State of the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation
Does a 3rd DUI Prevent You from Being Able to Purchase, Possess and Own a Firearm?
I often receive inquiries from clients regarding whether a 3rd Dui prevents him/her from being able to purchase, possess and own a firearm. While it will depend on the date of conviction, as the DUI Grading statutes have changed, since February 1, 2004, the current grading has been in effect and which would at least … Continue reading Does a 3rd DUI Prevent You from Being Able to Purchase, Possess and Own a Firearm?
Small change to Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Law
by Karl Voigt, Esquire There has recently been a minor change to Workers' Compensation law in Pennsylvania. This change does not, however, affect injured workers. Rather, it allows some employers to increase the number of their employees that are covered. The Pennsylvania legislature has recently passed a bill to allow employers to expand their workers' … Continue reading Small change to Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Law
Pennsylvania Law Regarding the Killing of a Dog that is Attacking You or Your Pet
On occasion, clients will inquire whether Pennsylvania has any laws regarding the killing of a dog that is attacking him/her or his/her pet. To the surprise of most, Pennsylvania law does have a provision relating to this issue. Under 3 P.S. 459-501, Killing dogs, dogs as nuisances, Pennsylvania law authorizes any individual to kill a … Continue reading Pennsylvania Law Regarding the Killing of a Dog that is Attacking You or Your Pet
If You Are Working, You Are Not Disabled
by Steven Tregea I frequently talk, or trade emails, with people who are thinking about applying for Social Security disability but are still working (and earning more than the SGA amount of $1,000 per month). Sometimes people are surprised that they cannot still work and apply for disability benefits. Sometimes they want to discuss the … Continue reading If You Are Working, You Are Not Disabled
Does an employer’s payment of medical bills constitute an admission of liability?
by Steven Tregea Question: Does an employer's payment of medical bills constitute an admission of liability? Recently the Commonwealth Court handed down a ruling in Securitas Security Systems USA v. WCAB (Schuh). The ruling dealt with whether an employer's payment of medical expenses constituted an admission of liability such that the employer was estopped from … Continue reading Does an employer’s payment of medical bills constitute an admission of liability?
Can I go on vacation when on workers’ compensation?
by Karl Voigt, Esquire Question: "Can I go on vacation when on workers' compensation?" Yes! As always, know your rights! You can go on vacation while receiving workers' compensation. Just because you're injured doesn't mean you have to stop living. When you're disabled from your job and getting paid workers' compensation benefits, your employer can't … Continue reading Can I go on vacation when on workers’ compensation?
Non-Citizens and Criminal Cases
Many visa holders and permanent residents do not realize that a criminal charge can lead to losing legal status in the United States. It is true that even Protection From Abuse violations and some misdemeanors can lead to deportation. It is extremely important that a non-citizen facing criminal charges educate themselves about the immigration consequences … Continue reading Non-Citizens and Criminal Cases
Moving Parents Must Be Aware
Parents who are planning to move must be aware that moving with children is no longer simple in Pennsylvania. As of January 2011, Pennsylvania has a new custody law involving relocation. While there has yet to be a firm answer, most courts are applying the new law to all parents- even parents who have never … Continue reading Moving Parents Must Be Aware
How Long After Becoming a Prohibited Person Do You Have to Relinquish Your Firearms
Occasionally, clients will inquire, after pleading guilty to or being convicted of a criminal offense, as to how long after becoming a prohibited person do they have to relinquish their firearms. Unfortunately, Pennsylvania's Uniform Firearms Act (UFA), specifically 18 PA.C.S. 6105, does not specify the period of time a newly prohibited individual has to relinquish … Continue reading How Long After Becoming a Prohibited Person Do You Have to Relinquish Your Firearms