Blog
Field Sobriety Tests in Arizona — What You Need to Know
What is a Field Sobriety Test? Standard field sobriety tests were developed years ago by the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) to detect impairment among drivers on the roadways. There are three standard FSTs officers may use to establish...
Estate Planning for Blended Families: Overcoming Challenges and Ensuring Fairness
In today’s world, blended families are increasingly common, and with them come unique challenges when it comes to estate planning. A blended family, consisting of parents who have remarried and their children from previous relationships, requires thoughtful and...
Bicycle Accidents in Arizona: Who’s Liable When Drivers Don’t Share the Road
Arizona’s beautiful weather and scenic roads make bicycling a popular choice for commuting, exercise, and recreation. But with more cyclists on the road, accidents involving cars and bikes are also on the rise. When a driver fails to share the road safely, the...
When a “Minor” Injury Leads to Major Medical Bills: Proving Damages
Not all personal injury cases are dramatic. Many accidents result in what initially seems like a “minor” injury—like a soft tissue strain, whiplash, or small fracture. But even minor injuries can lead to significant medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing...
What to Do If You Get a Speeding Ticket
Speeding tickets may seem like a minor inconvenience, but in Arizona, they can have serious consequences—especially if you're charged with criminal speeding. Whether you received a civil citation or are facing criminal charges, understanding your rights and options...
How to Talk to Aging Parents About Estate Planning
Talking to your aging parents about estate planning isn’t easy. It can feel uncomfortable, emotional, or even intrusive. But the truth is: avoiding the conversation can create confusion, stress, and costly legal issues later on—not just for them, but for the entire...
Quick Briefs: Who Is in Charge of Probate?
The person responsible for managing the estate is called the Personal Representative (often referred to as an “executor” in other states). If there is a valid will, it usually names someone to serve in this role. If there is no will, the court appoints someone—often...
What Is a Pour-Over Will?
A Pour-Over Will is a special type of will that works hand-in-hand with a revocable living trust. Its main purpose is to “catch” any assets that you didn’t transfer into your trust during your lifetime and automatically direct them into the trust upon your death....
Common Myths About Personal Injury Cases
If you have been injured in an accident, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by insurance processes and unfamiliar procedures. Unfortunately, many people have misconceptions about personal injury claims that can delay or even harm their chances of a fair recovery. At...
The Power of Beneficiary Designation Forms
When it comes to estate planning, many people think only about wills and trusts. But there’s another, often-overlooked tool that can make transferring assets simple, fast, and cost-effective: the beneficiary designation form. These forms aren’t just for retirement...
Sealing Criminal Records in Arizona: What You Need to Know
If you’ve ever been arrested or charged with a crime in Arizona, even if the case was dismissed or you were found not guilty, that record doesn’t just disappear. It can follow you for years—affecting jobs, housing, and even your reputation. But there’s good news:...
Quick Briefs: Understanding Diminished Value After a Crash
“My car was repaired. Why is it worth less?” Even if your car is fully repaired after an accident, it may lose value simply because it has an accident history — this is called diminished value. Arizona law allows you to make a claim for this loss, but insurers won’t...
Quick Briefs: What is a Subrogation Claim?
“I was injured in a car accident. My health insurance paid my ER bill. Now they want money back?” After your health insurance pays any accident-related medical bills, you may get a letter demanding reimbursement — this is called a subrogation claim. Subrogation is...
Arizona Accident Victim? Key Legal Tips from a Fountain Hills Personal Injury Attorney
If you have been injured in a car accident, you are likely dealing with pain, stress — and a lot of unanswered questions. At Fountain Hills Law Firm, we help accident victims understand their rights and recover the compensation they deserve. Here are some of the most...
How to Protect Your Rights After an Accident
Accidents happen in an instant—but the impact can last a lifetime. Whether it's a car crash, a slip and fall, or a workplace injury, knowing what to do immediately after an accident can make a critical difference in protecting your legal rights and securing fair...
Springing vs. Immediate Powers of Attorney: What Is the Difference?
When preparing for the unexpected, creating a Power of Attorney (POA) is a crucial step in protecting yourself and your assets. But not all POAs operate the same way. One important decision you’ll need to make is whether to give your agent immediate authority or to...
What Is a HIPAA Release—and Why Is It Important in Your Estate Plan?
When most people think about estate planning, they focus on wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. But one small document can make a big difference in ensuring your wishes are honored during a medical emergency: the HIPAA Release. What Is a HIPAA Release? A HIPAA...
DNR vs. Living Will: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters
When it comes to planning for future medical care, many people assume a “Living Will” and a “Do Not Resuscitate” (DNR) order are the same thing. While they both help guide health care decisions, they serve very different purposes. Understanding the distinction can...
Why You Should Make a Will in Arizona
Many Arizona residents put off making a will because they think they don't need one yet or the process seems too complicated. We at Fountain Hills Law Firm see this hesitation regularly, but creating a will is one of the most important steps you can take to protect...
Is Arizona a No Fault State? 2025 Liability Laws
Getting into a car accident can be stressful, especially when you're trying to figure out who pays for damages. Many people ask us if Arizona is a no-fault state when it comes to car accidents. Arizona is not a no-fault state but instead follows an at-fault system for...
If You Are Backing Out of a Parking Spot and Someone Hits You, Who Is at Fault?
Parking lot accidents can be confusing, especially when they involve a vehicle backing out of a space. We see many clients who come to us after experiencing this exact situation. They often wonder if they're automatically at fault just because they were the one...