All posts by Stacie

Tips On Finding A Reliable Used Car

Tips On Finding A Reliable Used Car

By Stacie on

Buying a used car is trickier than you might think. Sure, you want to get a used car to save some money, but you’ll need to balance trying to find a low price against safety and reliability. Just jumping at the first deal you see may put you at risk of purchasing an unreliable vehicle that’s prone to accidents, say auto attorneys McLachlan Law, so how do you find a used car that’s solid while still saving plenty of money? The following tips should help you on your search.

Know What Kind Of Car You Want, But Stay Flexible

It helps to go in with a plan, and if you’re looking to save some money, you’ll benefit yourself by concentrating your search on cars that were already economically priced when they were new — between $10,000 and $20,000 if possible.

Seeing as most cars lose between 20 and 30 percent of their value by the end of the first year (and 15 to 18 percent per year beyond that), targeting cars that started off relatively affordable when they were new will net you a great value if you can find them used.

Be sure to stay flexible and add more than one model to your wish list, though. This will grant you a bit of latitude in your search, and prevent you from feeling “boxed in” on a choice if you can’t find the first model you’re looking for (or at the price you’re after).

Do Your Research

There are certain indicators you can use to gauge the reliability of a used car, and you’ll find some of these by going through the vehicle’s detailed history. If you know the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) of the car you’re eyeing, you can use the NHTSA’s Vin Lookup Tool to search for safety recall information on the vehicle in question.

There are also companies like AutoCheck and Carfax that can help you get a vehicle history report, which will give you more information to chew on beyond the mileage and age of the car. You can use a vehicle history report to learn about whether the car has suffered any damage, what repairs and maintenance it has undergone, and other factors that will help you determine its safety and reliability.

Perform An Independent Inspection

As a final step, you might want to cover all your bases by hiring a mechanic to perform an independent inspection on the used car you’re looking at. This will help you identify any hidden issues that may not have been present on the auto history report. With that complete, be sure to take it for a test drive to see if you really like the car, and, if everything checks out, ride off into the sunset with your “new” vehicle.

5 Ways a DUI can harm your career

5 Ways a DUI can harm your career

By Stacie on

A DUI can cause you to lose your license, pay astronomical fees, and cause your insurance premium to skyrocket. That’s aside from the effects it will have on your immigration status or public standing, which could impact your ability to get a job. That’s not all that could hurt your chances, though. Here are five ways a DUI can harm your career. 

1. Required Driving

Companies that require driving as part of the job view those with a DUI as an insurance liability risk. If they can’t trust you to make the right decisions in your own vehicle, how can they trust you to do so in theirs or when you represent their company? This will keep you from getting a new job in a similar field, as well. 

2. Background Checks

Nearly every company conducts a background check on potential employees as part of the interview process. In most cases, that’s going to include any criminal history along with your driving record. While companies might view DUIs differently, most will change their perception of you once it shows up on your record. 

3. Irresponsible Candidate

When it comes to perception, the top way employers see a candidate with a DUI is irresponsible. While that might not be fair or true, they assume that you cannot hold your daily life and routine together. They might think you fail to take life seriously, they may think you’re an alcoholic, or that they simply cannot trust you. 

If you manage to retain your current position, a DUI will cause you to lose trust among your coworkers and bosses. They may also see you as irresponsible, which could cause you to miss out on opportunities and promotions. 

4. Financial Strains

Jobs that require driving often offer excellent pay. Without a license, this could cap your earnings at a certain amount and reduce your income. Even when a job doesn’t require driving, they do require you to have a way to get to work. You’ll find yourself paying for rides when you can as you become unreliable to get to work on time. 

5. Emotional Toll

A DUI can impact your self-esteem, create surmounting stress from its consequences, and put you in a negative state of mind for some time. All of these emotional tolls can impact your work performance as well as relations in the workplace. If the impact is severe enough, it could cost you your job. 

For many, it also leads to depression and drinking. Both of these can also impact your work performance and lead to your firing. It’s essential that those with a DUI seek counseling if the emotional toll begins to impact their daily life. 

Moving Forward

If a DUI does cost you your job, all is not lost. You can continue to seek employment with positions that do not require travel. After enough time has passed, it’s also possible to have the DUI expunged from your record, giving you the opportunity to start fresh and land an even better job than the one you had before. 

The 5 Biggest Celebrity Divorces and Their Outcomes

The 5 Biggest Celebrity Divorces and Their Outcomes

By Stacie on

It’s natural to want to follow the ups and downs of celebrity couples. When they’re on the upswing, it makes for some truly romantic tales, and when they’re on the downswing, the lows can make for some rather interesting drama. Today, we’ll be taking a look at the latter, and covering some legendary celebrity splits that would give pause to even the most seasoned divorce attorney.

Katie Holmes & Tom Cruise

Dawson’s Creek star Katie Holmes began dating Tom Cruise back in 2005, and eventually married the legendary actor in 2006. While they were together, from 2006 to 2012, they had one daughter, Suri, and when Holmes filed for divorce in June of that final year, things got quite tumultuous in the press.

In the fallout, Holmes received primary custody of her daughter, with Cruise only being granted visitation rights. One odd detail of the divorce, though — the agreement stipulated that Holmes not date anyone else publicly for 5 years following the split.

Jeff Bezos & Mackenzie Bezos

Do you think Mackenzie Bezos had to contact a lawyer about when to consider spousal support following her split with Jeff Bezos in 2019? We’re thinking not, as she walked away from the marriage of 25 years with $36 billion, give or take.

You see, Mr. Bezos was the world’s richest man at the time, and she was entitled to half since Washington, the state where they lived, is a community property state. Guess that makes Mackenzie one of the world’s richest women now, huh?

Ashton Kutcher & Demi Moore

For a time, these two successful actors were quite the pair, and while the 15-year age gap may have seemed strange to some, the fact that their relationship lasted for six years led most to believe everything was fine and dandy between the two.

Alas, not all was as it seemed, as Kutcher reportedly cheated on Moore on the weekend of their sixth anniversary. The pair announced the split the following month, and it was finalized in 2013 with Kutcher having to pay up. He has since gone on to marry 70s Show co-star Mila Kunis.

Russell Brand & Katy Perry

Comedian Russell Brand and musician Katy Perry met in 2009, and wed in 2010. The relationship was short lived, however, with Brand filing for divorce in 2011, only two years after their engagement. Though he was entitled to half of the $44 million Perry had earned over their marriage, Brand did not accept the money, and the two went their separate ways.

Michael Jordan & Juanita Jordan

Perhaps the greatest professional basketball player of all time, Michael Jordan was married to wife Juanita for 17 years. Though it wasn’t the first time they had considered divorce (Juanita had filed once before in 2002), the 2006 split was finalized, with MJ paying Juanita $168 million.

Most Dangerous Roads in the US

Most Dangerous Roads in the US

By Stacie on

Did you know there are roughly 2.7 million miles of paved roads in the United States? That’s enough to stretch around the globe 110 times. While those roads can be fun to drive, there are also a series of incredibly dangerous highways that claim over 30,000 drivers each year. 

If you have a road trip planned in the near future, then it may be in your best interest to avoid these roads at all costs. These are the most dangerous roads in the United States.

Highway 99, California

Spanning a total of 424 miles, Highway 99 travels through California’s Central Velley. Changing from four lanes to two as enters rural territory, this stretch of road retains an average of 0.62 fatal crashes each mile. That doesn’t include non-fatal car accidents. 

U.S. Route 1

Notably the longest vertical highway in the United States, Route 1 stretches all the way from Maine to Florida. Its 2,369 miles allow it to be the most dangerous highway in Florida, Maine, and Maryland. In just one decade, America’s first route claimed over 1,000 lives. 

U.S. Route 550

Nicknamed the “Million Dollar Highway,” Route 550 passes through San Juan Mountains in Colorado. Willed with sharp turns and winding mountain roads, both of which lack guardrails, plenty of drivers have accidentally taken the plunge over its many edges. 

Oregon Coast Highway

While this highway starts in Los Angeles and ends in Washington, the dangerous portion lies on Oregon’s coast. With an average of 34 fatal accidents per year, these 363 miles are ones you may want to avoid. The scenery is beautiful, but the winding roads are treacherous when wet. 

Interstate 285

Atlanta’s I-285 also makes this list. Known as The Perimeter, this 63-mile loop links every interstate in the city. Given its location, that means an intense amount of traffic. With its sharp turns and interchanges, there are accidents here on a daily basis. 

James Dalton Highway

Opening to the public in 1974, this Alaskan highway was featured in the television series Ice Road Truckers. Ice is a common hazard, but what makes this road so dangerous is that it is almost entirely remote. There are only three towns along the way and the road is patrolled by helicopters to keep an eye out for accidents. 

Interstate 4

This 132-mile stretch leads from Tampa to Daytona Beach. It averages almost 1.5 fatalities each mile, earning it the ranking of one of the most dangerous interstates in the country. Personal injury attorneys are quick to point out that the dangers on this road come from Florida’s laid-back texting and driving laws. 

Interstate 17

Located entirely in the state of Arizona, this interstate offers stunning views from Flagstaff to Phoenix. That beauty, however, is coupled with extreme heat and an average of 0.84 deaths per mile. Take into account its 176-mile stretch, and that’s a lot of fatal accidents. 

US-83

Finally, there’s US-83. This road stretches across the Canadian border before heading through Middle-America to Mexico. Its length contributes to its dangerous rating, but the Texas portion of the road holds the highest number of vehicular deaths with 26 fatal crashes a year. The Texas part of US-83 has held these high numbers for over a decade.  

Best-selling cocktails in the world

Best-selling cocktails in the world

By Stacie on

The world of cocktails is ever evolving. Mixologists and bartenders are forever pushing the boundaries of this realm of drinks as they craft new and exciting concoctions. The question remains, however, do people prefer the classics or these new creations? What are the best-selling cocktails in the world? 

As it turns out, people do love the classics. While bars continue to sell variations on these old standbys, people crave the familiarity of a perfectly crafted cocktail. Here are the top sellers from around the globe. 

Old Fashioned

The number one drink on any continent remains America’s Old Fashioned. This bourbon or rye cocktail is mixed with Angostura bitters, a few dashes of water, and is muddled with a sugar cube. If you’re looking for the real deal, it should also be finished off with a citrus rind. 

Negroni

The Negroni has earned its spot in second place for five years in a row now, with almost 20% of bars worldwide saying it’s their most-served drink. This cocktail calls for one parts gin, vermouth rosso, and Campari. An orange peel acts as garnish. 

Experts and car accident attorneys alike warn drinkers to be careful with this one. It’s so easy to knock back that you almost forget you’re drinking at all. So, take it easy and gauge yourself if you’re planning to drink Negroni all night. 

Whiskey Sour

Coming in third is the whiskey sour, which is popular thanks to its ability to be sweet and sour all at the same time. This simple yet delicious drink calls for whiskey, sugar, and lemon juice. You can also add in a dash of egg white if you prefer your drink to be creamier. 

Daiquiri 

Another simple mix, the Daiquiri combines simple syrup and lime juice with white rum. However, bars around the world serve up their own variations with several types of juices sweeteners. In most cases, you’ll find this cocktail finished with a lime rind. 

Manhattan

Straight from New York, this cocktail is sold at 40% of bard worldwide. It uses a sweet red vermouth mixed with rye whiskey and Angostura bitters. To make it traditional, a maraschino cherry is used for garnish. 

Dry Martini

Ever popular, the dry martini almost always finds itself in the top ten. There are dozens of ways to make a martini, but the dry variant calls of one-part dry vermouth and six parts gin. It is also garnished with three green olives. 

Due to the high alcohol mix in the dry martini, it’s advised to sip on this cocktail. More than two in an hour sitting is often enough to have you fail a sobriety test. As always, drink responsibly before you find yourself in need of a DUI defense attorney. 

Espresso Martini

If you want a less alcoholic option, try the seventh most popular cocktail in the world. An espresso martini combines vodka with espresso, coffee liqueur, and sugar syrup. It’s sweeter and more decadent than it’s dry cousin. 

Margarita

Finishing off this article’s list at number eight in worldwide popularity is the margarita. It remains the most popular tequila cocktail, but you might have had this drink without one key ingredient. A traditional margarita combines tequila with the lime juice, simple syrup, and salt rim you love, but also includes orange liqueur.

Difference Between Frustrated Murder and Attempted Murder

Difference Between Frustrated Murder and Attempted Murder

By Stacie on

If you’re involved in a murder trial, or just into true crime, then differentiating between frustrated murder and attempted murder can be vital in the outcome of the case. This is often a confusing area of the law, but various distinctions can help you better understand the two. Here’s what you need to know. 

Attempted Murder

This sentencing is one that most people understand. If you attempt to murder someone and fail, it counts as a felony crime. According to attorney Jeremy Rosenthal, the court will decide on a ruling of attempted murder when:

  • Someone takes action to kill another person
  • The action taken was intended to kill a person

While those two phrases sound about the same, the use of the word intention covers acts like hiring a hitman or poisoning. Stalking or luring someone to a place where murder is intended also counts, as does buying the necessary components to make a bomb. 

The act must also be able to kill a person. Even serious harm and disfigurement, when not meant to kill, do not count as attempted murder. Stabbing a person in the arm as opposed to the chest is an excellent example. 

Frustrated Murder

Adding frustrated to the word murder is where things begin to get complicated. Courts usually decide on this ruling by the severity of the wound. If you intended to kill someone but left a non-fatal wound, it would still be attempted murder. If the wound was serious enough to cause death without proper medical treatment, then it becomes a frustrated crime. 

To receive either distinction, the victim cannot die. Frustrated murder is often used to classify an attempt that was carried out but unsuccessful. Criminal defense attorneys often make the distinction based on both act and intent.  

Act and Intent

Imagine a scenario when the perpetrator plans to shoot their victim. They lure their victim to a secluded location, have the gun on their person, and are entirely ready to kill another person. Once they pull the gun out, they change their mind. This is an attempted murder. The intent to kill was there, but the person did not act on the intent. 

If the perpetrator shot their victim in the arm then ran away, it would also be attempted murder because the wound was non-fatal. They intended to kill their target but failed to do so. While the action is still there, the act wasn’t enough to kill the victim. 

Now, imagine that the perpetrator shoots their victim and leaves a fatal wound. The criminal flees, someone calls 911 after hearing the gun shot, and paramedics are able to save the victim. Since the person did not die, it isn’t a complete murder. Instead, it gets classified as a frustrated murder. The criminal tried and failed, but the injury would have killed their victim without intervention. 

Proving intent in court varies from case to case, but the distinction between attempted and frustrated  comes from the actions of the criminal. If you are involved in a murder trial, you should speak with your attorney about the difference between the two and how either might pertain to your case.