Thompson Law Office Thompson Law Office 2026-07-09T19:22:58Z https://www.ethompsonlaw.com/feed/atom/ WordPress /wp-content/uploads/sites/1304294/2025/10/cropped-favicon-thompson512-32x32.jpg On Behalf of Thompson Law Office <![CDATA[Basic steps to complete an adoption in Lexington]]> https://www.ethompsonlaw.com/?p=48256 2026-06-29T06:37:48Z 2026-06-29T06:37:48Z Establish eligibility under Kentucky law You must meet baseline qualifications before you file your petition with the court. Kentucky law allows any adult who is at least 18 years old to file for adoption. You must either currently live in the state or have lived in the state for 12 months directly before you submit your paperwork. The exact documents you need depend on your situation. Most local cases fall into specific categories:
  • Stepparent requests to secure bonds with stepchildren
  • Independent placements made directly with birth parents
  • Agency placements through public or private adoption groups
Your specific category determines which forms you must submit to the local circuit court.

Complete the mandatory home study process

Most families must complete a home assessment before a judge approves the placement. A licensed social worker visits your home to ensure the environment is safe and stable. This step involves face-to-face interviews and a review of your household history. The social worker looks at specific items during the evaluation:
  • Background checks to ensure household safety
  • Employment records to confirm financial stability
  • Health reports to verify you can care for the child
The social worker sends a final report to the judge to verify that your home is ready.

Finalize the request in Fayette County court

A judge must review the case to complete the process. The base filing fee for a civil action in a Kentucky Circuit Court is $188, current as of June 2026. Local county fees may apply at the time of filing. During the final hearing, the judge reviews the home study report and verifies that the birth parents surrendered their rights legally. Once the judge signs the final order, the state issues a new birth certificate.

Begin your family expansion with clear guidance

The legal framework protects the welfare of the child, but the strict rules can create administrative burdens. Minor errors in your initial petition can cause delays or lead to a dismissal of your case. Working with a local family law attorney can help you manage the required filings and court appearances efficiently.  ]]> On Behalf of Thompson Law Office <![CDATA[How should you talk to insurance adjusters after a car accident?]]> https://www.ethompsonlaw.com/?p=48255 2026-06-05T15:44:54Z 2026-06-05T15:44:54Z You may need time to process the accident An insurance adjuster usually works for the insurance company handling the claim. Their role shapes how they ask their questions. They may call soon after the accident, when details may still seem difficult for you to organize. Before discussing the accident with them, it may be wise to keep in mind the following:
  • Questions about past injuries or medical issues may come up.
  • Adjusters may want to offer a settlement as early as possible.
Medical treatment may still be ongoing, so the full impact of your injuries could remain uncertain. As your treatment continues, you may learn more about the extent of your injuries and how they affect your daily life.

Consider a measured approach

When you speak with an adjuster, it may be beneficial to give brief but factual answers. You might want to share only basic information, such as the date, location or vehicles involved. Speculation about fault, injury severity or accident details without a factual basis might create confusion later. You may want to avoid saying you are fine if you still feel pain or discomfort. Symptoms sometimes change after the first day or two, and your medical records may give a clearer picture over time. It may also help to take notes. Consider documenting the adjuster’s name, company, phone number and the date they called. You may also ask for their requests or offers to be in writing.

Informed answers may support a steadier process

Your answers now could matter as the process develops. Consider taking the time so you could respond more thoughtfully to any adjuster questions. Reviewing your options first may help keep the claims process clearer and more organized.]]> On Behalf of Thompson Law Office <![CDATA[3 ways you might unintentionally hurt your child during a divorce]]> https://www.ethompsonlaw.com/?p=48254 2026-05-08T12:30:45Z 2026-05-08T12:30:45Z Speaking negatively about your ex-spouse You may feel hurt, angry or betrayed by your former partner, but sharing these feelings with your child can cause lasting damage. When you criticize the other parent in front of your child, you could put them in a difficult position. Children naturally love both parents, and hearing negative comments might cause confusion, guilt or emotional distress. Consider keeping adult conversations separate from interactions with your child. You might find it helpful to vent frustrations to a friend, therapist or support group instead. Keep in mind that your child generally needs to maintain a healthy relationship with both parents. Speaking respectfully about your ex-spouse, even when it feels difficult, could provide your child with some peace of mind.

Involving your child in the divorce

During a Kentucky divorce, communication between parents could become strained. However, relying on your child to deliver messages, ask questions about finances or report your co-parent’s activities could place a heavy burden on them. This practice typically forces children into adult roles and can make them feel responsible for problems between their parents. Beyond the emotional harm you could cause your child, this behavior can also have legal consequences. Courts in Kentucky typically prioritize the best interests of a child when determining custody. As a result, they may look unfavorably on you if you are willing to involve your child in adult conflicts. It may help to establish direct communication channels with your ex-spouse whenever possible. Text messages, emails or co-parenting apps can help you share necessary information without involving your child. If direct communication proves too difficult, you could consider working with a mediator or legal professional to facilitate exchanges.

Disrupting routines and stability

During divorce, you might feel tempted to become the "fun parent" or discard routines to prioritize spending as much time with your child as possible. However, inconsistent rules, schedules and lifestyles may lead to behavioral problems. You may want to maintain familiar routines as much as possible, including bedtimes, mealtimes and school schedules. Coordinating with your ex-spouse about household rules and expectations can provide consistency across both homes. While some changes are inevitable during divorce, preserving stability in key areas can help your child feel safer and more comfortable.

Putting your child’s needs first

Your actions during the divorce can potentially affect your child’s mental health and development. By prioritizing their needs over conflict, maintaining respectful communication and preserving stability, you may give them a sense of security. This way, you can protect them and foster healthy growth even after separating from your spouse.]]> On Behalf of Thompson Law Office <![CDATA[Can you modify child support if prices keep rising?]]> https://www.ethompsonlaw.com/?p=48246 2026-04-13T18:54:23Z 2026-04-13T18:54:23Z When rising costs may support a child support modification Rising prices do not automatically change a child support order. Instead, the court looks for a “material change in circumstances,” which refers to a clear and ongoing shift in your financial situation. You may have grounds to request a modification if:
  • Your income has decreased or has not kept pace with your expenses
  • Your child-related costs have increased in a consistent and ongoing way
  • Your work situation has changed in a lasting manner
  • Your child’s needs have increased as circumstances evolve
  • A guideline recalculation would result in a significant difference
What matters is how these rising costs affect your overall financial position. If your income no longer covers the same share of your child’s needs as it did when the order was set, that change may support a request. The court will focus on documented financial differences rather than general economic conditions.

When higher prices alone are not enough

Higher prices, on their own, will not usually support a modification. Courts rely on concrete financial evidence, not broad concerns about the cost of living. If your income and expenses have remained largely the same, or if the increase in costs is temporary or inconsistent, the court will likely leave the current order in place. The same outcome is likely if you cannot provide updated financial records to support your request. In most cases, the court must see a measurable and continuing change, not simply a general sense that expenses have increased.

When it may be time to take a closer look

Rising costs can place added pressure on any household, particularly when you are already working within the limits of an existing support order. Even so, the central issue remains whether your financial situation has changed in a way that is both clear and ongoing. If your current child support order no longer reflects what you can reasonably afford or what your child requires, it may be worth having your situation reviewed. A closer and more deliberate look at your financial records can help you decide whether to move forward with a support modification request.  ]]> On Behalf of Thompson Law Office <![CDATA[Managing medical bills after a Lexington injury]]> https://www.ethompsonlaw.com/?p=48245 2026-03-02T13:10:18Z 2026-03-02T13:10:18Z Recovering from an injury in Lexington often brings more than physical pain. Along with healing, you may quickly face stacks of medical bills, insurance paperwork and confusing charges. These financial details can feel like a maze. However, knowing how bills may affect your personal injury claim can make navigating them less stressful and more manageable.

Untangling confusing medical costs

Bills can arrive from multiple sources — hospitals, urgent care centers, specialists and even labs — sometimes for the same visit. Each statement may include different codes and charges that are hard to read at first glance.  Studies show that 79% of medical bills contain at least one error, such as duplicate charges, incorrect codes or services that were not performed. This is why carefully reviewing each statement is important. Doing so can help you catch mistakes before they add up. Keeping a record of payments and statements not only tracks your total expenses but also lays the groundwork for your claim. Getting guidance from someone who knows how accident-related compensations work in Lexington can also take some of the stress off while keeping your paperwork in order. A lawyer can guide you in identifying which costs may be included in your claim. They can also help ensure your documentation supports the compensation you may deserve.

Spotting common bills you may face

Once you start reviewing bills, it becomes easier to recognize recurring expenses. Medical costs can range widely, but some of the most common charges you may see include:
  • Emergency room visits and related testing
  • Hospital stays or surgeries
  • Specialist consultations like orthopedic or neurological care
  • Physical therapy sessions and follow-up appointments
  • Prescription medications and medical equipment like crutches or braces
Tracking these expenses alongside receipts and insurance communications can give you a clear picture of your total financial responsibility. This level of organization can make responding to billing questions or insurance disputes much smoother.

Staying ahead while healing

Medical bills after a Kentucky accident case can feel like another obstacle on top of your physical recovery. However, approaching them as part of your overall healing plan can reduce stress. By staying organized and proactive, you may protect your finances while focusing on regaining your health.]]> On Behalf of Thompson Law Office <![CDATA[Can a criminal record in Kentucky be expunged?]]> https://www.ethompsonlaw.com/?p=48240 2026-02-06T15:08:30Z 2026-02-06T15:08:30Z What is expungement? Expungement refers to the process of removing your cases from public view and treating them as if they did not happen. After removing these cases, courts and law enforcement agencies erase or seal your records. You can accomplish this by acquiring a certificate of eligibility before filing a petition for expungement in court. Afterwards, you can then claim that the relevant arrests or convictions did not happen when applying for a job, credit or any other type of application. Kentucky allows broad relief for cases that did not result in a conviction. By law, courts must clear records for charges that end in dismissal with prejudice or acquittal. People can also file a petition to expunge their criminal records, preventing them from dealing with lifelong consequences for certain crimes. Bear in mind that some agencies, such as law enforcement like the Kentucky State Police, may retain nonpublic records for certain legal purposes.

Which misdemeanors and felonies qualify for expungement?

You can clear certain felonies and misdemeanors after a five-year waiting period after the completion of your sentence, probation and paying your fines. During this period, you must avoid new convictions. Some offenses are expungable, with exceptions involving sex crimes or crimes against children. Similarly, some class D felonies are eligible for expungement – specifically non-violent and non-sexual crimes such as theft or drug possession. To have your criminal record cleared, you must obtain an expungement certification from the Kentucky State Police before filing an application in court. Judges then examine your case and review public safety and the interests of justice before determining whether or not to grant your request. Kentucky’s laws can give you a second chance, allowing you to start over without losing major opportunities due to your criminal record. While you must wait five years until after your sentence ends, successful expungement can remove a major barrier to employment and stability.]]> On Behalf of Thompson Law Office <![CDATA[How do military divorces differ under Kentucky family law?]]> https://www.ethompsonlaw.com/?p=48236 2026-02-03T17:00:33Z 2026-02-03T17:00:33Z Divorce brings added complexity when military service plays a role. Kentucky family law still governs the process, but federal protections and service-related factors can affect timing, finances, and parenting arrangements. Understanding these differences helps you prepare for what lies ahead.

Military service can delay divorce proceedings

Federal law allows courts to pause civil cases when active-duty service makes participation difficult. Under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, a court may issue a stay to prevent default judgments or unfair progress during deployment or training. These pauses can delay hearings, temporary orders, and final decisions, even though a Kentucky court keeps authority over the case.

Residency rules work differently for service members

Kentucky usually requires one spouse to live in the state for at least 180 days before filing for divorce. A service member stationed in Kentucky may meet this requirement even if their legal home lies elsewhere. This rule also applies when one spouse lives in Kentucky while the service member serves outside the state.

Military pay and benefits affect financial issues

Kentucky courts calculate child support and maintenance using gross income from many sources. Military compensation often includes base pay and other forms of pay that can change with duty status or location. Because income may fluctuate, courts must review service-related earnings carefully when setting or adjusting financial obligations.

Military retirement follows federal rules

Military retirement differs from civilian pensions because federal law controls what portion a state court may divide. Kentucky courts may address military retirement in a divorce, but only within limits set by federal statute. Proper orders ensure any division follows those federal requirements.

Custody and parenting time require flexibility

Deployments and relocations can affect parenting schedules. Kentucky courts focus on the child’s best interests while accounting for service obligations. Courts often approve temporary changes during deployment without permanently changing custody rights, especially when parents create clear and workable parenting plans.

Understanding the rules helps you prepare

Military divorce involves both Kentucky statutes and federal protections. Knowing how service affects residency, court timelines, income calculations, and parenting arrangements allows you to make informed decisions during a challenging time.]]> On Behalf of Thompson Law Office <![CDATA[Can you seek compensation after a slip and fall in a store?]]> https://www.ethompsonlaw.com/?p=48235 2026-01-05T15:28:46Z 2026-01-05T15:28:46Z A slip and fall in a grocery store can leave you dealing with pain, medical bills, and time away from work. These incidents often happen fast, but the effects can last much longer. Kentucky law gives you options when unsafe store conditions cause harm.

How grocery store slip and falls happen

Grocery stores see heavy foot traffic throughout the day. Spilled liquids, dropped produce, or leaking refrigeration units can create slick floors. Uneven mats, cluttered aisles, and poor lighting also raise the risk of injury. When store staff fail to address these hazards in a reasonable time, problems can follow.

When a store may be responsible

Stores must keep their property reasonably safe for customers. This duty includes inspecting aisles, cleaning spills, and warning shoppers about known dangers. If employees knew about a hazard or should have known through routine checks, responsibility may apply. The focus often rests on how long the hazard existed and what steps the store took to fix it.

How fault affects your claim in Kentucky

Kentucky follows a pure comparative fault system. This rule means fault can be shared between you and the store. For example, distractions or footwear may reduce recovery but do not block it. Your compensation adjusts based on your share of responsibility, which makes evidence and timing important.

Steps that help protect your rights

Seek medical care as soon as possible, even if the pain feels minor at first. Report the fall to store staff and ask for an incident report. Photos of the scene, your shoes, and any warning signs can help. Keep medical records, receipts, and notes about how the injury affects daily life.

Understanding possible compensation

Compensation may cover medical expenses, lost income, and pain-related losses. The value depends on injury severity, recovery time, and how the fall impacts your routine. Clear documentation supports these claims and helps show the full scope of harm. Slip and fall claims often depend on details that seem small at first. Prompt action, clear records, and awareness of store duties can shape the outcome.]]> On Behalf of Thompson Law Office <![CDATA[What happens to retirement accounts during a Kentucky divorce?]]> https://www.ethompsonlaw.com/?p=48207 2025-12-04T14:57:02Z 2025-12-04T14:57:02Z A divorce can bring up tough questions about how you and your spouse divide what you built together. Retirement accounts often create the most confusion because they combine long-term planning with complex rules. You should understand how Kentucky law treats these accounts before you move forward.

How Kentucky views retirement accounts in a divorce

Kentucky treats most retirement savings earned during the marriage as marital property. This means the court splits that portion between both spouses. The court looks at when each contribution happened and how much of the account grew while you remained married. Retirement accounts from before the marriage stay separate, but the growth during the marriage may still count toward division.

How courts divide the marital portion

Courts aim for a fair split based on several factors. The judge considers the length of the marriage, each spouse's contributions, and the financial situation of both parties. A Qualified Domestic Relations Order, or QDRO, often directs a retirement plan to transfer funds from one spouse to the other. A QDRO helps you avoid tax penalties and keeps the transfer smooth.

How different retirement accounts work in a divorce

Each type of retirement account follows its own rules during a divorce. A 401(k) or similar employer plan usually requires a QDRO, while an IRA uses a different transfer method. You should know the rules for your specific account because the process affects taxes, timing, and long-term value. Dividing these savings without the right order or instructions can lead to delays or unexpected costs.

Key steps you can take during the process

Start by gathering statements for each retirement account that covers both the marriage years and earlier. Make sure you understand which part of each account counts as marital property. Review the terms of each plan because some plans limit how and when funds can shift. Careful preparation helps you make informed choices during the divorce. After the accounts split, update your long-term financial plans. You may need to adjust your retirement timeline or contribution levels. Take time to review your budget and revise your savings goals so your future remains secure.]]> On Behalf of Thompson Law Office <![CDATA[When does theft become a felony?]]> https://www.ethompsonlaw.com/?p=48197 2025-11-03T14:21:48Z 2025-11-03T14:21:48Z Theft can carry serious consequences, but in Kentucky, not every theft charge counts as a felony. The difference depends on what was taken and how much it was worth. Understanding where that line is drawn helps you see what the law means by felony theft and how it can impact your life.

Understanding Kentucky theft laws

Kentucky divides theft into degrees based on the value of the stolen property. If the value is under $500, the charge is typically a misdemeanor. Anything above that amount can raise the charge to a felony. The more valuable the property, the higher the degree of the felony and the tougher the penalties.

When theft becomes a felony

Theft becomes a Class D felony when the stolen property is valued of more than $500 but less than $10,000. For property worth $10,000 or more, the charge increases to a Class C felony. Certain items automatically make the charge a felony regardless of value, such as firearms, controlled substances, or items taken directly from another person. Repeat offenses can also turn what might have been a misdemeanor into a felony.

Consequences of felony theft

Felony theft charges bring severe penalties. A Class D felony can mean one to five years in prison, while a Class C felony can result in five to ten years. Beyond prison time, a felony conviction can affect housing, employment, and future opportunities. Even after serving a sentence, the conviction stays on record and may follow you for years.

Why the value of property matters

The property’s value is a key factor because it sets the level of punishment. Prosecutors must prove the value beyond a reasonable doubt, which often depends on receipts, expert estimates, or testimony. Small differences in value can make a big difference in the outcome of the case.

Moving forward after a theft charge

Understanding how theft becomes a felony helps you see how serious these charges can be. Knowing where the thresholds are may guide decisions that protect your future and help you avoid lasting consequences.]]>