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Can a Creditor Take Your Social Security? What You Need to Know in PA, NJ, and NY
If you receive Social Security benefits and you're dealing with debt collectors, judgments, or even bankruptcy — one of the first things you need to understand is this: your Social Security is not automatically up for grabs. The law provides real protections. But those protections can evaporate if you're not careful about how you manage your money. Let's break it down — starting with the basics, then getting into what the rules look like in each state where I practice. First
Patricia A. Ames, Esq.
Mar 55 min read


Don't Let a Summer Visit Cost You Your Custody Case: What Parents Need to Know About Jurisdiction
Imagine this: You and your child's other parent are doing fine. You're not together romantically, but you're cohabitating, co-parenting, keeping the peace. Things are good enough that going to court feels unnecessary — even dramatic. So you don't. Then one day, the relationship ends. Things get tense fast. Before you know it, the other parent has sent your child to visit family in another country — just a vacation, they say. But the weeks stretch into months, and suddenly you
Patricia A. Ames, Esq.
Mar 55 min read


Is Your Home Safe If You File Bankruptcy Alone? Why New Jersey Trustees Are Getting It Wrong
You and your spouse bought a home together. You hold it as tenants by the entirety—the way most married couples in New Jersey own their homes. Now, life has thrown you a curveball, and you need to file for bankruptcy. Your spouse doesn't. You've done your research, and you know that New Jersey law protects your home from your individual creditors. So why is a bankruptcy trustee trying to sell it anyway? This is happening right now in New Jersey bankruptcy courts, and frankly,
Patricia A. Ames, Esq.
Jan 294 min read
![[HERO] Divorce After 50? 7 Mistakes You](https://cdn.marblism.com/W84kHhu0k9W.webp)
![[HERO] Divorce After 50? 7 Mistakes You](https://cdn.marblism.com/W84kHhu0k9W.webp)
Divorce After 50? 7 Mistakes You Might Be Making with Your Finances (and How to Fix Them)
Divorce is never easy. But divorce after 50? That comes with a whole different set of challenges, especially when it comes to your finances. You've spent decades building a life together. Retirement accounts, real estate, pensions, maybe a business or two. Now you're facing the prospect of untangling all of it while also protecting your future. It's daunting, and we get it. At Ames Law Group, we've walked alongside countless clients navigating "gray divorce," and we've seen t
Patricia A. Ames, Esq.
Jan 165 min read


Same-Sex Adoption Made Simple: How Ames Law Group Protects Your Family in New Jersey and Pennsylvania
At Ames Law Group, we proudly help same-sex couples secure and protect their parental rights through confirmatory adoptions and...
Patricia A. Ames, Esq.
Apr 29, 20252 min read


Are you being sued for a debt that isn't even yours?
How to Protect Yourself from Identity Theft Lawsuits in PA and NJ For years, I have helped clients fight back against lawsuits for credit...
Patricia A. Ames, Esq.
Mar 24, 20252 min read


Same-Sex Marriage Rights Aren't Going Anywhere: Here's why you don't need to worry
With recent Supreme Court decisions, particularly Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization , many people have expressed concerns...
Patricia A. Ames, Esq.
Jan 27, 20253 min read


Navigating Credit Card Debt Lawsuits in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania: Understanding the Statute of Limitations
Are you facing a credit card debt lawsuit in New York, New Jersey, or Pennsylvania? Understanding the statute of limitations is crucial...
Patricia A. Ames, Esq.
Mar 19, 20242 min read


Breadwinner Wife, or stay at Home Mom... a prenup can protect your interests.
In the realm of marriage and divorce, the dynamics have shifted significantly over the past few decades. One notable trend is the...
Patricia A. Ames, Esq.
Mar 17, 20242 min read


Protect Your Inheritance & Gifts: The Importance of Keeping Assets Separate in Marriage
Are you aware of the potential risks of commingling separate inheritances or gifts with marital assets? At Ames Law Group, we understand...
Patricia A. Ames, Esq.
Mar 14, 20242 min read


Protecting Your Child: Why Proper Representation is Essential in Child Abuse and Neglect Cases
Child abuse and neglect cases are among the most heart-wrenching and complex legal matters one can face. These cases not only involve...
Patricia A. Ames, Esq.
Mar 14, 20242 min read


Why Prenups Are Essential for Everyone, Not Just the Wealthy
When it comes to prenuptial agreements, there's a common misconception that they're only for the ultra-rich, like Jeff Bezos or Elon...
Patricia A. Ames, Esq.
Mar 13, 20242 min read


Taking Action Against Domestic Violence: Seeking Legal Guidance
Domestic violence is a harrowing reality for far too many individuals and families. Whether you're experiencing threats to your life,...
Patricia A. Ames, Esq.
Mar 13, 20242 min read


The Crucial Step You Can't Afford to Delay in Divorce Proceedings: Getting an Appraisal
As emotions run high and life undergoes significant changes during a divorce, it's easy to overlook essential steps in the legal process....
Patricia A. Ames, Esq.
Mar 13, 20242 min read


Protecting Your Business Reputation: Business Defamation Law
In the digital age, where online reviews and social media presence can make or break a business, protecting your reputation is paramount....
Patricia A. Ames, Esq.
Mar 12, 20242 min read


Defending Against Credit Card Company Lawsuits: Your Strong Legal Advocate at Ames Law Group
Sometimes credit card companies sue for alleged old debts. Facing legal action from credit card companies for old debts can be daunting,...
Patricia A. Ames, Esq.
Mar 12, 20241 min read


Holding Creditors and Credit Bureaus Accountable: Your Rights Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act
At Ames Law Group, we understand the frustration and stress that comes with inaccurate or unverified information on your credit report....
Patricia A. Ames, Esq.
Mar 12, 20242 min read


Navigating Chapter 7 Bankruptcy with Compassionate Advocacy from Ames Law Group
At Ames Law Group, we understand that facing financial difficulties can be overwhelming, and filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy is a...
Patricia A. Ames, Esq.
Mar 10, 20242 min read


Navigating Custodial Interference: Charting Your Legal Path with Ames Law Group
At Ames Law Group, we understand the complexities and emotional strain that can arise when one parent wishes to relocate with their child...
Patricia A. Ames, Esq.
Mar 10, 20242 min read


Navigating Step Parent Adoption in Same-Sex Marriages: A Legal Guide
Same sex adoption for non-birth parent.
Patricia A. Ames, Esq.
Mar 5, 20242 min read
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