Central Valley Legal Blog

Are you looking to start a nonprofit to help your community? Is that the same as being tax-exempt? There is a common misconception that they are the same – in fact they are two related but different things. Usually when someone wants to start a “charity” what they really want to do is be a…

The common saying goes: “It it’s not in writing, it didn’t happen.”  You might be surprised to know that when it comes to contract law, the opposite is actually true.  Verbal contracts are not only enforceable, but there are only certain types of contracts that MUST be in writing.  Knowing this distinction is important to…

Non-solicitation clauses and non-compete clauses are commonly included in employment contracts. A typical non-Solicitation clause may state that the employee will not solicit any business or customer with whom they had contact with during their employment for a certain period of time post-employment.  A typical non-complete clause may state that the employee will not enter…

The California Constitution requires every local agency to comply with the California Public Records Act (“CPRA”). The CPRA states that the right of access to information is a fundamental and necessary right of every person in the state. The CPRA is a vital component of California’s commitment to operating an open government and democracy. The…

As kids, we were told not to say bad words and if you did, your parents would make you wash your mouth out with soap.  Luckily, I never had to wash my mouth out with soap, but I was curious if it would really be that bad.  So one day I took the smallest taste…

What is a “bitcoin?” This question seems to be coming up a lot these days. A bitcoin is likely the most recognized and popular form of cryptocurrency. Cryptocurrency is a type of digital or virtual currency (like the dollar or euro). However, unlike those traditional forms of currency, cryptocurrency is not backed by precious metal…

Purchased property can increase its value. For example, if you bought property in the 1970’s for $100,000.00 and the same property is worth 600,000.00 today, then your property has appreciated, or grown, in value. The Federal government taxes this increase in value through a capital gains tax. Depending on your tax bracket, the capital gains…

Whether you’re the plaintiff or defendant, a lawsuit is a complicated process.  There are many court rules, filing deadlines, and procedural requirements that you should be aware of. As a result, once you realize that you will become involved in a lawsuit it is good practice to immediately consult with an attorney. An attorney’s job…

What is an Advance Health Care Directive? An Advance Health Care Directive is important because it comes into play when you are incapacitated, such as a coma, or any other circumstance where you are unable to make decisions for yourself. Without an Advance Health Care Directive, the treating doctor will have to make medical choices…

Have you been mailed or served with a judgment against you and you did not ever know there was a lawsuit against you?  Chances are whoever sued you took your “default” – meaning you failed to respond to the lawsuit.  But how could you respond if you never knew you were being sued in the…