Rockford Ranked Third Most Affordable Housing Area in Nation

After being in the ranking for “most dangerous” and “fattest,” Rockford is finally in the ranking for something positive. A report by Fiserv, a global provider for information management, ranked Rockford as the third most affordable housing market in the nation, meaning it is a great time to buy a house in Rockford.

In Rockford the average home sells for $80,000 which fairly inexpensive particularly when the median family income is $60,000. However, this buyer’s market will not last forever. Experts say this will not last much longer and are already starting to see a spike in sales. One Realtor said that July is normally one of the slowest months of the year but this July showed a dramatic increase from the preceding months, showing that the housing market is improving fast in Rockford.

Do you plan on buying a home in Rockford, or the surrounding area? Do you plan selling a home in Rockford or the surrounding area? Buying or selling a home may seem simple, but don't be fooled, you will need a lawyer to protect you. Click here or call the Crosby Law Firm 815-397-2006 for a free consultation.

My son is 11, is that old enough for him to decide which parent he wants to live with after a divorce?

While some states allow a child of a certain age to choose which parent to live with, in Illinois the court will determine what is in the best interest of the child. Precedent shows that children’s wishes will be taken into account during the decision making process. The greater the child’s age, intellect, and maturity, the more likely a court will adhere to the child’s wishes. Therefore, the preference of a 17 year old will be given great weight while the preference of a 7 year old would hold little weight in comparison.

In short, your son does have a say about which parent he will live with but this is not determinative, only a factor considered by the court. The court will weigh your son’s wishes with their assessment of each parent’s ability to care for the child, and grant custody in the best interest of your son.

Divorce Proceedings and custody battles can be very messy and often times emotions run strong. If you are involved in a custody dispute or if you are considering a divorce, you need a lawyer to protect you. Please call the Crosby Law Firm at 815-397-2006 to schedule a free consultation.

Unbelievable Divorces: 550 Cats, Honeymooning with Mom, and a Talking Bird./ Rockford Divorce Lawyer

In Illinois you need grounds for divorce:basically a reason is required to get divorced. Illinois does not permit “no fault” divorce.There are several bases that are generally recognized: irreconcilable differences, mental or physical cruelty, alcohol or drug abuse, adultery, impotence and imprisonment. Sometimes couples want to get divorced for reasons that do not really fit into any of those categories.

In Israel a husband filed for divorce from his wife because she has 550 cats, which she refuses to get rid of. The man said that he could not sleep on his bed because the cats were laying on it. He told the court that the cats blocked the door to the bathroom, and that they stole food off his plate at the dinner table.

In Italy a wife filed for divorce after her husband brought his mother with on their honeymoon. The wife asked the husband to make her leave but he refused. After only three weeks of marriage the wife asked for a divorce because of her husband’s “excessive emotional attachment” to his mom.

In China a husband divorced his wife after 10 years of marriage when he found out that she had been lying about her age the whole time. The wife said she was 24 when they were married, and after 10 birthdays it never came up that she was actually 6 years older.

Also in China a wife learns that her husband is cheating on her because their pet bird started talking about the indiscretion, saying things like “I love you,” “Divorce” and “Be Patient” everytime the phone rang. The wife brought the bird to court to testify at her divorce hearing. The bird was not subject to cross examination.

Finally, in Germany a man seeks divorce claiming that his wife is too sex-crazed and he has been forced to sleep on the couch for 18 years out of fear that she will attack him while he sleeps.

Funny business aside, a divorce is a serious thing that should not be attempted without the protections of a divorce lawyer. The Crosby Law Firm can help. Call today for a free consultation at 815-397-2006, or click here and tell us your story.

Victim of Gruesome Cannibal Attack Speaks after 2 Months in the Hospital

WARNING, CONTAINS GRAPHIC IMAGES!!

There has been a new light shed on the horrific attack from May 26th after the victim Ronald Poppo spoke for the first time since the attack.
Poppo recalls that he we resting underneath an exit ramp when Eugene came up to him and accused him of stealing his bible. Poppo denied the accusation and Eugene threatened to kill Poppo, and then attacked. When the cops arrived and ordered Eugene to stop he only growled at police, forcing police to shoot several times, and ultimately kill Eugene to get him off Poppo.
Poppo is now in a Miami long-term-care facility. On the gruesome day in May, Poppo had over half his face eaten off by Rudy Eugene in an attack lasting 18-minutes. While many had suspected Eugene had done “bath salts” before the attack, known to cause severe hallucinations and paranoia, the toxicology reports showed that Eugene had nothing but marijuana in his system.

While some might say that marijuana might have been the cause of this, experts agree that it is very unlikely because none of the known effects of marijuana cause severe violent behavior and we found no studies that linked cannabis to cannibalism. However there are some drugs that would not show up on a toxicology report, which may be a contributing factor to why Eugene attacked Poppo. As of now it is still a mystery why a naked Eugene undressed Poppo then attacked and chewed Poppo’s face off. Some talking heads have dubbed this event the beginning of the “Zombie Apocalypse,” because of the bizarre rise in cannibal behavior in Florida the past few months. Coincidently the Center for Disease Control, or CDC, released an article 10 days before the attack titled, “Preparedness 101: Zombie Apocalypse.”

Some say drug offenses are victimless crimes, but that is debatable. In any event, your right to a defense attorney is not debatable. If you are arrested for drugs, drug paraphernalia, or an illegal substance crime we can help. The Crosby Law Firm has helped thousands of people with similar legal problems and are prepared and capable of helping you. Click here or call 815-397-2006 for a free consultation.

President Obama behind Romney in Fundraising

Romney has announced his new running mate, Paul Ryan, a popular congressman from Wisconsin. Since then, there has been another spike in donations to the Romney/Ryan Campaign. Ryan was brought to tears as thousands applauded him in Wisconsin this weekend.

President Obama is still behind Mitt Romney in fundraising. For the past three months donors have been endorsing Romney, and a vast majority of the donations are under $100 meaning they are probably from middle class working families. Romney has raised a shocking $101 Million to Obama’s $75 Million.
To put this into perspective Romney has raised enough money to buy 100 Submarines, 100 Airplanes, 404,000 PS3, 505 new Lamborghinis, or 50 new yachts. Romney has raised more money in the past month than 63 people earning an average income will make in their lifetimes.

In response, Obama went back to Chicago for big fundraising events this weekend. The event everyone is talking about was at Obama’s mansion in Chicago, where he charged $40,000 a ticket. At this event he told donors, “Chicago is an example of what makes this country great” then said, “Witness this room" then said, "we’ve got everything we need to make things work here in America.”

What was not addressed by either candidate was the repulsively high homicide rate in Chicago. There been 228 murders so far this year. That is more killings this year than Afghanistan, New York or Los Angeles. Obama had said, about the South Side of Chicago which is where a majority of the shootings have occurred, "I think it's fair to say I'm an adopted son of the South Side." Chicago’s mayor, and Obama’s former chief of staff, Rahm Emanuel, has unfortunately not been able to decrease the homicide rate yet.

Most Americans do not have donors with such deep pocket books. As the economy continues to falter, the jobless rate continues to grow. If you lost your job and are overwhelmed with debt, federal law offers a solution. Give yourself a fresh start with the U.S. Bankruptcy code. Our Rockford bankruptcy lawyers will guide you through the process and help you get on with your life. Click here or call 815-397-2006 for a free consultation today!

Saudi Ambassador: a Bigamist who Does Not Have to Pay Child Support Penalties / Rockford Family Lawyer

Faysal Zedan, a Saudi Ambassador to the United States was married in 1966. He was then married again in the United States to Sylvie Westheim in 1995. The couple had three children together. When 2006 rolled around the marriage was annulled after a finding that Zedan was still married to his wife from 1966.
The court ordered Zedan to pay $7,000 a month in child support and alimony to Westheim. Westheim claimed he has not paid child support and took Zedan to court where the court found Zedan in contempt and ordered him to pay over $200,000 in past child support and alimony.
On appeal the Virginia Court of Appeals overturned this ruling. The court held that Zedan did not have proper notice of the annulment or the court ordered child support and alimony to be considered in contempt of court, even though he was in communication with Westheim. Now the 70-year-old Ambassador must start paying $7,000 a month to Sylvie Westheim and their three children, but does not have to pay back the unpaid child support for the past 6 years. The Ambassador’s child support is astronomically higher than average because child support is determined by a percentage of income, and the Ambassador makes a great deal of money.
Child support fights are tough and often contain unexpected twists and turns. Our attorneys are experienced and versed in the law of child support. Are you considering divorce? Are you involved in a child support or custody battle? If so, click here or call the Crosby Law Firm at 815-397-2006 for a free consultation, to ensure that you receive the representation you deserve. When it comes to your divorce or your children, it’s no time for amateur hour. You need a lawyer to protect you.

Governor Quinn Signs Housing Bills for Disabled Housing and Protection from Mortgage Fraud / Rockford Real Estate Lawyer

Governor Pat Quinn signed two new housing bills into law on August 3. Both Laws take effect immediately. The first bill provides disabled people with greater access to affordable rental housing, by making $10 million in subsidies available to landlords. The funding falls under the Rental Housing Support Program, which is a division of the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA). Funding for the subsidies will be acquired through a $10 fee added to real estate document recordings.
The second new law attempts to provide greater protection from mortgage fraud for homeowners. The bill increases the fines for mortgage fraud, increases fees for mortgage company licensees, and gives more power for the investigation and prosecution of mortgage fraud to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation’s Division of Banking.
Here at The Crosby Law Firm, we have extensive experience and knowledge of real estate law and landlord/tenant law allowing us to evaluate your contract and answer

Olympic Gold, Bankruptcy, and Child Support: The Story of Gabby Douglas/ Rockford Bankruptcy and Child Support Lawyers

What do Olympic Gold Medals, Bankruptcy, and Child Support all have in common? Gabby Douglas, the 16-year-old gymnast who awed the nation with her spectacular performances in the London Olympics. Newspapers have attacked Gabby lately because of her family issues.

Earlier this year Gabby’s mother filed for bankruptcy after accumulating nearly $90,000 in unpaid debt. Questions are popping up now because young Gabby is being offered cereal box jobs and other similar advertising positions, like many other Olympic winners. While bankruptcy is a valid option for families that cannot catch up with their bills and are struggling to stay afloat, people are upset about the bankruptcy so soon before Gabby won gold (and all the perks that come with it). Regardless, Gabby’s new fame will set her, and likely her family, up for a comfortable life.

In other news, Gabby is being asked about her dad, whom she claims left when she was 9. With it being “child support awareness month,” newspapers are all over Gabby about her father’s inability or unwillingness to pay child support. Her parents have been separated for 7 years but were just recently divorced. Gabby’s dad has allegedly paid little or no child support since Gabby was 9, leaving Gabby’s mother to struggle to support the children and Gabby’s expensive gymnastic lessons. The family is suggesting that the lack of child support is a leading factor in the bankruptcy.

If you are having a financial crisis and you cannot get ahead, or if you cannot get child support from your child’s other parent we can help. The Crosby Law Firm has lawyers who work tirelessly to ensure your family has the best legal representation possible. We offer payment plans, and free consultations so we can sit down with you and talk about solutions to your problems. Click here or call 815-397-2006 to claim your free consultation.

Naked Country Star, Randy Travis, Threatens Trooper with Death, After Being Arrested for DUI/ Rockford DUI Attorney

In Texas yesterday country star Randy Travis was arrested just before midnight after a driver called to say there was a naked man in the road. Police arrived to find the singer’s Pontiac Trans Am crashed into a construction zone and Randy Travis lying completely naked in the road. Travis did not suffer any serious injuries from the crash only a black eye and some scratches.

Travis refused a Breathalyzer but was taken to the hospital for blood work to determine his blood alcohol content (BAC). While in the squad car Travis told the Trooper that he was going to shoot and kill him. Travis was charged with Driving While Intoxicated, retaliation and obstruction.

This charge follows shortly after another DUI charge from February of this year when Travis was found in his car in front of a church drinking. Travis apologized and said he was partying for the Super Bowl. The singer is now being held with a $21,500 bond.

Rockford traffic lawyers of The Crosby Law Firm are experienced, and we know your rights. Are you facing speeding tickets, moving violations, DUI/DWI, drivers’ licenses suspension, or a similar matter? We offer flat fee pricing for most criminal matters. Click here or call 815-397-2006 to arrange for a free consultation today, so you know where you stand.

Amanda Bynes Accused of DUI and Two Hit-and-Runs Asks President to Fire the Arresting Officer/ Rockford DUI and Traffic Attorneys

Former child star Amanda Bynes was accused of rear-ending a woman, called only Kisa, and refusing to give Kisa her insurance information on Saturday in Beverly Hills. Kisa then called the police who filed a hit-and-run report. Kisa is claiming there was significant damage done to her car. Reports suggest that Bynes may have been texting while driving when she allegedly hit Kisa’s car. Texting while driving is illegal in both California and Illinois.

Bynes is finding herself in a bad place with this hit-and-run report happening shortly after Bynes was charged with a DUI and another hit-and-run, both are still pending. In that instance Bynes allegedly sideswiped a police car, and was later apprehended but refused to take a Breathalyzer test. Bynes plead not guilty and even tweeted to President Obama, “Hey @BarackObama… I don’t drink. Please fire the cop who arrested me. I also don’t hit and run. The end.” If convicted Bynes may face 48 hours in jail, 3 years probation, a 9 month-alcohol program, and a hefty fine.

In Rockford, if you are convicted with a DUI you can face up to 1 year in jail, suspension of your driver’s license for up to 3 years, and a $2,500 minimum fine. Jail time, community service, and fines only get worse if there are children in the vehicle, if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is over .16, or if there was an accident involved.

If you were involved in a traffic accident, a moving violation, or a DUI, a lawyer is necessary. Click here or Call the Crosby Law Firm at 815-397-2006 for a free consultation.

White Supremacist Kills 6 in Sikh Temple Shooting/ Rockford Wrongful Death Lawyer

In the wake of the “Dark Knight Rises” Massacre a shooting occurred Sunday morning at a Sikh temple in the suburbs of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The alleged shooter, Wade Michael Page, entered the temple, as it was about to begin service and started shooting. Witnesses say the shooter remained silent but looked as if he had a purpose. Page was shot outside the temple by local law enforcement after the shooting left six dead.

Page served six years in the U.S. Army, and part of that time was spent working in the psychological operations unit at Fort Bliss, Texas. After Page’s other-than-honorable discharge he allegedly joined a neo-Nazi group and started a white supremacist band. While these allegations have not been confirmed, the FBI is leading the investigation and appears to be treating the shootings as domestic terrorism.
Sikh’s across the world are outraged by this act of violence. In India protests have broken out condemning the violence. Protestors carry signs berating the United States, and one Sikh said, “It is very shocking. A country like the U.S.A., which says it is a superpower, could not protect its own people.” The Prime Minister of India has ordered a Sikh delegation to investigate the attack.

A Sikh right’s group called Sikh Coalition has said that hate crimes against Sikhs has increased since 9/11, claiming 700 biased attacks. The group claims the increase in hate crimes is because of the anti-Islamic sentiment in the U.S.
Since the “Dark Knight Rises” Massacre many are suing the movie theatre for wrongful death suits. Generally the owner of public property is not liable for unforeseeable, third party, criminal acts even those causing wrongful death. However if the criminal acts were foreseeable the owner may be liable and in those cases a wrongful death suit may be brought. Further, death resulting from non-criminal acts may lead to viable wrongful death claims. While nothing can bring back your loved ones wrongful death suits can give closure and monetary compensation for the victims family. If you have a legitimate wrongful death claim, the Crosby Law Firm can help. We have lawyers with experience who will fight for your family’s rights. Click here or call 815-397-2006 for a free consultation.

"Holmies": The Shocking Group of James Holmes Supporters

Just hours after the “Dark Knight Rises” shooting, an online group started forming.  They now have dozens of fan pages and call themselves the “Holmies.”



The Holmies are a group, mostly teenage girls, who support the alleged shooter, James Holmes, that was charged with 24 counts of murder on Monday.  These children take pictures of themselves wearing plaid and drinking Slurpees.  Both are symbolic.  The Slurpee represents a dream that Holmes expressed in a video from when he was 18 to own a Slurpee Machine.  The plaid reference is because the alleged murderer was said to be wearing plaid under his body armor at the time of the shooting.

Even more disgusting these girls are claiming to be sexually attracted to Holmes, and want to start writing to him in prison.  One writer even posted the rules for sending letters to jail, and others have posted what they are writing to Holmes.  This attraction to mass murderers is a psychological disorder called hybristophilia or “Bonnie and Clyde Syndrome.”  The followers are creating pictures, anime and photoshopped art of Holmes.  For example, one disturbed follower posted a fake picture of Holmes as a veteran being honored with a military medal from President Obama, another has posted a picture is of Holmes as the Joker, from Batman, with the caption saying, “It’s simple, we kill the audience.”

While this outrages most Americans, should this be allowed?  Does the First Amendment, freedom of speech, protect this behavior?  Should children be given freedom of speech to this extent or should that be reserved for adults?  Where are the parents of these "Holmies", and should society be giving parents better ways to monitor children?

What do you think?

Our troubled youth are often misguided and find themselves in compromising positions. The parents of such children sometimes face what seem like impossible obstacles, particularly in regards to their legal issues. We can help protect you and your children. Our Rockford lawyers represent juveniles charged with criminal offenses. When children face criminal charges, DCFS investigations often follow. Whether defense is needed for accusations of theft, vandalism, or drug possession, we can help. And if your parental rights are at stake, our Rockford DCFS lawyers are willing to stand by your side. Click Here or call 815-397-2006 for a free consultation with an experienced attorney.

The Crosby Law Firm is a general practice law firm dedicated to solving your problems.  Whether you are struggling with a Divorce or family law issue, Bankruptcy, Personal Injury claim, DUI/Traffic charge or other criminal allegations, or taking care of your Trust, Wills, or Probate, your case is important to us, and we want to help.

Caught on Tape: Child Custody Battle Becomes Literal Battle Outside Rockford Court House

 
Child Custody battles are often very emotional, but those emotions rarely turn into brawls on the sidewalk in front of the Winnebago County Courthouse.



After passionately arguing their custody case the parents were sent out separate exits, regardless, the two found each other in front of the courthouse and started yelling and hitting each other. As police came out, acquaintances dove in for a piece of the action that, ultimately, landed three fighters in police custody.
All too often people try to take justice into their own hands, but if you have a strong attorney who is willing to fight hard to ensure justice is served in court, violence does not have to ensue outside. If you are going through a divorce or child custody dispute call The Crosby Law Firm so problems can be settled legally, in the courtroom, and no one has to get physical.

The Crosby Law Firm is a general practice law firm dedicated to solving your problems. Whether you are struggling with a Divorce or family law issue, Bankruptcy, Personal Injury claim, DUI/Traffic charge or other criminal allegations, or taking care of your Trust, Wills, or Probate, your case is important to us, and we want to help.

Micheal Jackson's Siblings Fight to Take Control of his Estate after Will Dispute

Michael Jackson’s parents reported that the pop star died intestate (without a will), but just days later a will, signed in 2004, appeared. The significance of dying intestate is that the government then decides who gets your assets, and how much they get, according to the laws of “intestate succession,” rather you’re your own intention as reflected in a will. The will left 40% of Michael’s estate to his children, Prince, Paris and Blanket, 40% to his mother, Katherine Jackson, and 20% to certain charities, but left nothing to his father or siblings. Now Michael’s siblings are calling the will fake and fraudulent.
While a judge has already determined the will was valid and distributed assets as the will requested, the siblings are finding new ways to fight for a share. This includes sending Katherine, Michael’s mother and the executor of the estate to Arizona, allegedly by force, while Randy, Michael’s brother, orchestrated a failed attempt to scrap the will, without Katherine around.
While Michael’s mother, Katherine, was missing in action custody of the children was taken from her and temporarily given to Michael’s nephew TJ. Now TJ is pushing for joint custody with Katherine, and the whole situation is a mess. This is a classic example of the importance of a proper and well documented will, particularly when there are children involved (or greedy relatives).
Do not leave your loved ones in a situation like this. Make sure you have a will that can withstand scrutiny and attack. A will is necessary to ensure your assets and children will be cared for the way you want them to be cared for. The Crosby Law Firm will include a guardianship provision in your will, so the world knows your preferred caregiver for your children after you pass. Our firm can help, Click Here or call 815-397-2006 for a free consultation and meet one of our attorney’s who has made a career out of protecting families and individuals just like you.
The Crosby Law Firm is a general practice law firm dedicated to solving your problems. Whether you are struggling with a Divorce or family law issue, Bankruptcy, Personal Injury claim, DUI/Traffic charge or other criminal allegations, or taking care of your Trust, Wills, or Probate, your case is important to us, and we want to help.

Snow White and the Huntsman Affair Scandal: Kristen Stewart Cheats on Robert Pattinson with a Man Nearly Twice her Age!!

Snow White and the Huntsman Affair Scandal: Kristen Stewart Cheats on Robert Pattinson with a Man Nearly Twice her Age!!



A cheating spouse is considered grounds for divorce by many but is the same infidelity grounds for a break-up outside of marriage?

Kristen Stewart, the 22 year old star from the Twilight Saga, apologized for having an affair with her 41 year old director Rupert Sanders during the production of Snow White and the Huntsman after scandelous pictures of the two went viral.  Kristen’s fans are claiming that Rupert seduced her into an affair and he took advantage of his position over her, but neither party has verified this allegation. 

Kristen Stewart was in a three-year relationship with Twilight co-star Robert Pattinson before he learned of the infidelity. The two were not married and do not have any human children but they own a $6 million home in Los Angeles and a dog. Robert Pattinson has allegedly moved out and will not speak with Kristen, despite her desperate attempts to fix the relationship. However, Kristen and Robert are allegedly starting a “custody battle” for their dog Bear which they adopted at a shelter together and consider their child.  Both sides want the dog and Kristen is pushing for joint custody of the beloved pooch (while newspapers are referring to the dog fight as a “custody dispute,” the fact matter is the pooch is property and will not be treated the same).

The story is still unfolding though with reports that what Kristen called a “momentary indiscretion” was actually a six-month plus affair.  Regardless, it looks like Robert is done and the relationship is over.  Unfortunately, the two still have to work together for the promotion of the final Twilight movie Breaking Dawn: Part II coming out on November 16 of this year. 

The two will face an interesting battle trying to split up the co-owned home and their k-9 “child”. Generally, in a divorce setting, the judge would split up the marital property or hear a custody case, over human children.  While the two are not married, and do not have any real children, some state judges, such as Wisconsin divorce judges, will split up shared assets if the assets were obtained through mutual efforts and one party is retaining an unreasonable amount.

If you find yourself in a similar difficult situation, or if you are thinking of filing for divorce, The Crosby Law Firm can help.  Call today and schedule a free consultation with one of our divorce and family law attorneys who concentrate on helping you get through the difficult times life brings.



The Crosby Law Firm is a general practice law firm dedicated to solving your problems.  Whether you are struggling with a Divorce or family law issue, Bankruptcy, Personal Injury claim, DUI/Traffic charge or other criminal allegations, or taking care of your Trust, Wills, or Probate, your case is important to us, and we want to help.