610-353-8531
17 Veterans Square
Media, PA 19063

Wills & Trusts

One of the most important things that a person who owns property or has assets can do is to make sure that they provide clear instructions about the disposition of that property when they are gone. Having a well-executed will or trust gives you the peace of mind of knowing that your wishes are clear and that you’ve minimized any anxiety, stress or lack of clarity for those who are left behind. James P. Peters is an experienced attorney who has extensive knowledge and experience in preparing wills and trusts for clients who come from a wide variety of backgrounds. He can also assist you with other financial and legal documents that can assist you in protecting and planning for your future, including establishing a durable power of attorney and writing an advanced health care directive. Contact our office today to see how we can make the process easy for you as well.

Wills and trusts are two different legal instruments that people commonly use to accomplish their financial goals, as well as to ensure that they have the opportunity to shape their legacy. A will is a document that spells out exactly how you want your property distributed and disposed of, and can be a very simple and straightforward document or can be multi-layered and complex. As for trusts, there are two distinct types of these documents, one of which is put into place during the subject’s lifetime and the other that is constructed in a way that is similar to a will in that it does not take effect until after the grantor has died.

When you establish a living trust, you choose whether it is to be revocable and provides you with continued control over your assets, or irrevocable, which does not allow you to make any modifications by has the advantage of preventing outsiders from laying claim to your assets. An irrevocable trust can also reduce your tax burden. Whichever option is chosen has the benefit of not needing to go through the probate process. If you choose to establish a testament trust it offers many of the same advantages in terms of protecting your assets, but it does not go into force until after you have died.

The idea of setting up a will or trust and making arrangements for the possibility of future disability are all activities that people have a tendency to set aside for another time, but taking care of these tasks provides you with the peace of mind of knowing that you have taken care of the future for your assets and for your loved ones. Contact James P. Peters to set up an appointment to discuss your plans for the future. We provide legal counsel in Delaware County, Montgomery County, Chester County and Philadelphia County, as well as many other locations throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Working with James P. Peters means that you are working with a compassionate, competent attorney who truly cares.

Medical Malpractice

If you believe you’ve been harmed by your doctor or another medical professional, it can be difficult to know where to turn. Not every misdiagnosis or mistake is actually considered medical malpractice, but many are. James P. Peters is an experienced medical malpractice attorney serving Delaware County, Montgomery County, Chester County and Philadelphia County, as well as many other locations throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. He will take the time to listen to your situation carefully and make sure that you understand all of your rights and options.

Medical malpractice describes a situation in which:

  • A doctor/patient relationship existed
  • The doctor was negligent
  • The doctor’s negligence caused the injury
  • The injury led to specific damages

Each of these four points must be present in order for a specific situation to be considered medical malpractice, so it is important that you understand what each of these things mean. The first and last of these are the easiest to determine. In order to prove a doctor/patient relationship existed, the physician must have agreed to be hired and you must have hired them — casual conversations do not count as this type of relationship. An injury that led to specific damages means that you suffered harm such as pain, mental anguish, additional medical bills or lost work or earning capacity.

Determining that the doctor was negligent and that it was their negligence that caused the injury is the crux of every medical malpractice case. You must be able to provide evidence that the doctor’s actions were not in keeping with the standard of care that a competent physician would have provided in the same circumstances. No physician is required to be the best, or to be perfect, but they are expected to be “reasonably skillful and careful.” In a medical malpractice lawsuit, this point is proven with the help of testimony by expert witnesses. Beyond proving this point, it is also necessary to prove that it was the doctor’s negligence that caused the injury. Depending upon the specific circumstances of your case, this can be the most difficult point to prove. Since the patient was already seeking treatment, a physician may offer the defense that the injury would have taken place with or without their role. James P. Peters has extensive experience in proving health professionals negligent, and he can help you too.

There are a number of different types of medical malpractice, but the three most common are the failure to diagnose an illness or injury properly, providing improper treatment for an injury or illness, or failure to warn the patient of known risks. These are each very different situations, but all can result in pain, suffering, medical expenses, and even to death. James P. Peters is a compassionate, sole practitioner who understands your frustration and need for justice. We will work hard to make sure you understand every aspect of your case and to provide you with the best possible outcome. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Social Security Claims

Social Security is a disability program provided by the Federal government. It pays benefits to those who are eligible who meet specific criteria, and is crucial to those who are no longer able to work. When you are filing for disability in Pennsylvania, the initial steps are similar to those in the rest of the nation, but the initial application is subjected to both a general overview by Social Security and by a state agency. The state offers an appeals process, vocational rehabilitation and supplemental payments in addition to those offered by the federal government, but receiving those benefits can be a complicated and arduous process. Having an experienced attorney help you through the process has many benefits. It can speed up the process and improve your chances of getting the compensation that you need. James P. Peters is an experienced disability attorney who provides legal counsel in Delaware County, Montgomery County, Chester County and Philadelphia County, as well as many other locations throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. He can help from the initial application through the appeals process and will much improve your chances of winning.

The national approval rate of initial applications for social security disability is very low – only about 32% of initial claims are accepted, and this is often due to applications being filled out improperly. In Pennsylvania, once your application is reviewed for eligibility it is passed on to the Bureau of Disability Determination, which determines medical eligibility. James P. Peters has extensive experience helping applicants through this claims process. He can complete the application in a way that demonstrates that you are not able to perform any work. He will help you to gather proper medical evidence and will enlist the help of your physician in providing effective documentation. He can also expedite the process if your application is time sensitive.

In addition to ensuring that your paperwork and evidence are in order and that you meet all of your deadlines, having an experienced attorney working on your behalf is particularly important if your claim is denied and you need to move on to an appeal hearing. Though Pennsylvania has streamlined this process by eliminating the need to review paperwork, it requires that a hearing be held in front of an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). The requirements for disability can be complex, and it is critical that you have legal counsel who is familiar with the rules of evidence and who knows what will be most effective in the eyes of the ALJ. James P. Peters has the knowledge and experience you need to get your social security claim approved.

Though the majority of Social Security claims are initially denied, you improve your chances of being approved dramatically by having a qualified, experienced disability attorney help you with the process and the appeal. James P. Peters is a compassionate attorney who truly cares about making sure that you get what you deserve. Contact us today to set up an appointment to discuss your case.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs – DUI

In the state of Pennsylvania, law enforcement considers driving a serious responsibility, and expects drivers to obey all of the laws and guidelines that it has established. Among the most important of these rules are the ones dedicated to preventing people from driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you have been charged with a DUI offense in the state of Pennsylvania, it is essential that you have an experienced attorney to protect your rights. James P. Peters provides legal counsel in Delaware County, Montgomery County, Chester County and Philadelphia County, as well as many other locations throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. He will advise you of your rights and use his knowledge and passion to ensure that you are treated fairly and get the best possible outcome for your circumstances.

Drivers who are found to have BACs above .08 but below .10 are considered to be “generally impaired.” This can mean any of a number of penalties, including mandatory probation, fines, attendance at an alcohol highway safety school, and community service. Fines and penalties increase with subsequent violations.

Under Pennsylvania’s drunk driving laws, a driver is considered to be legally drunk when their blood alcohol level is 0.08 or more — for commercial drivers that number is halved to 0.04 percent, and for school bus drivers and drivers under the legal drinking age it is halved again to just 0.02 percent. The penalties for drunk driving vary based upon the level of the blood alcohol as well as whether there have been previous offenses: for those with a BAC of less than .10 there is no suspension of driver’s license, but for those with a BAC level that is higher of .10, as well as if you have one or two previous convictions, you face suspension on a sliding scale. If you have had three or more DUI convictions the law requires that your license be revoked for five years, with subsequent convictions extending that period of revocation.

The state’s penalties imposed for driving under the influence become even more stringent with each exacerbating factor such as drivers who are underage or responsible for driving school children, and this is because drunk drivers have been responsible for so many serious injuries and deaths of other motorists, pedestrians, passengers and cyclists. If you’ve been charged with driving under the influence it is essential that your attorney is well-equipped to provide you with an energetic defense that looks at important factors such as probably cause for being pulled over, proper calibration of the breath machine, and whether the rules of evidence are properly adhered to. James P. Peters can provide you with this type of experience. He understands the process and will work hard to get your penalties reduced or your DUI charges dismissed. For legal assistance that will explore all of your options and help you make the best decisions, contact us today.

Assault

Being charged with assault is very serious. In order to protect your rights and give yourself the best opportunities both now and in the future, it is important that you are represented by a skilled and experienced attorney who truly cares about what happens to you. James P. Peters has been practicing law in Delaware County for 25 years, and he provides a personalized approach to every case. Because the penalties for even a simple assault can include five years of prison, it is essential that you have an advocate on your side who will fight vigorously on your behalf.

Simple Assault

A simple assault is a crime against a person. It is considered a misdemeanor crime, and a charge of simple assault can be brought against you even if you did not actually cause bodily injury. Simple assault can include the act of making somebody afraid that you are going to attack them, negligently injuring somebody with a deadly weapon even if you didn’t mean to, attempting to injure somebody but not being successful, and of course intentionally injuring a person physically.

Because there is such a wide range of definitions of simple assault, it is easy for a person to be accused of the charge spitefully or erroneously. If somebody accuses you of planning to do them harm, even if you had no intention of doing so, you can still be charged with the crime, and that means you could face steep fines and time in prison. That is why it is so important that you are represented by an experienced attorney. Even if you have been charged after participating in a fight in which both parties were equally at fault, you need legal counsel to protect yourself.

Aggravated Assault

Aggravated assault is a very serious charge that demands the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney. By definition, it is a first degree felony if it involves causing serious harm to a law enforcement officer or any member of the judiciary, the legal system (including parking enforcement officers), fire or emergency personnel, and other public servants. The charge is considered a second-degree felony if it involves school employees or board members. First degree aggravated assault can mean a twenty year sentence and second degree charges can result in a ten-year sentence. In all cases you can anticipate that the prosecution will be pursuing your case aggressively, so you will need a passionate defender.

Having James P. Peters as your advocate when you’ve been charged with assault means that you have a defender who knows the legal system inside and out and who will use his knowledge aggressively to protect your rights. We will examine all of the facts of the case, from the information that you provide to the evidence against you, in order to find a way to prove you innocent of the charges against you or to find the best course of action that will minimize the penalties that you face.

Criminal Defense

Being charged with a criminal offense demands immediate defensive action. Your future depends on the skill and experience of the attorney that you select to represent you, and James P. Peters has both.

When you select James P. Peters to represent you against criminal charges such as Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs, Assault and Battery, Drug Possession or any other charge, you put yourself into the capable hands of an attorney who truly cares and who will put your needs first. Mr. Peters pays close attention to every case. His personal interest means that all of your questions will be answered, all of your needs addressed, and you can feel confident that the legal counsel that you are receiving is both knowledgeable and has your best interest in mind.

No matter whether the offense that you have been charged with is something minor like a traffic violation or something as serious as a crime of violence, you are always innocent until proven guilty, and James Peters is dedicated to ensuring that your rights and interests are protected. Our goal always begins with dismissal of the charges against you; when that is not possible we work hard to get you acquitted or charges and penalties that you are facing reduced.

The law firm of James P. Peters has represented countless criminal defense cases in Delaware county, Montgomery county, Chester county and Philadelphia county, as well as many others throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The criminal misdemeanors and felonies that we are able to assist you with include:

  • Assault and Domestic Violence
  • Drug Crimes
  • Firearms and Weapons Offenses
  • Sex Crimes
  • Kidnapping and Family Crimes
  • Theft
  • Fraud
  • Arson and Property Crimes
  • Officer and Public Crimes
  • Violent Crimes
  • Juvenile Crimes
  • Driving Under the Influence

From the moment that you contact our firm, we will immediately begin a thorough investigation of the facts of the case. We will work with you to understand your side of the case, asking probing questions so that we have a full understanding, and then applying our experience and knowledge of the law to provide you with the most capable defense. With over twenty-five years of experience in the Pennsylvania legal

What is Personal Injury?

Personal injury cases involve damage that has been caused by somebody else’s negligence. It doesn’t matter whether your injuries or losses were caused by a person or by an entity — either way they can make a profound difference in your life. Examples of personal injury cases that the law firm of James P. Peters has handled include car accidents, motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, fires, dog bites, slip and fall accidents and product liability accidents. If somebody else was careless and it resulted in an injury, then they can be held responsible for your doctor’s bills, hospital bills, missed work and other expenses. Whether your injuries have healed or you are still undergoing rehabilitation or long-term care, you may have experienced emotional trauma, loss of employment or enjoyment of life, or simply needed to make expensive repairs to property. James P. Peters will listen carefully to what has happened to you and let you know what your rights are, and if you are eligible to file a claim we will do so in a way that will maximize your compensation and get you the justice that you deserve.

At the law office of James P. Peters, we are here to help. We have been providing legal representation in Delaware County, Pennsylvania for twenty-five years, and have extensive experience in presenting personal injury cases in a compelling way. We’ve earned a reputation for providing truly compassionate, personalized service, and we’ve done that by taking the time to listen, ask the right questions, and answer all of your concerns. It is our goal to get you the resources that you need in order to put things right, so whether you’ve been injured in a car accident, have been the victim of an improperly made product, or have fallen and been injured on somebody’s improperly maintained property, we will do all of the due diligence needed in order to prove that your injuries were the fault of the other party and hold them responsible for the damages that they caused you. A consultation with us is free of charge, so contact us today to set up a convenient appointment.

Motor Vehicle Accidents

When you’ve been in an automobile accident or have sustained an injury as a result of somebody else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for the expenses and damages you’ve incurred. Having the right personal injury attorney by your side can make all the difference in the compensation and justice that you receive. James P. Peters is an attorney who is dedicated to providing his clients with the best possible representation. He is professional and personal in his approach, taking a real interest in getting the best possible outcomes for those who have been injured as a result of the irresponsible acts of others.

Criminal Defense in Delaware County PA

Who Is James P. Peters?

With over 25 years of experience with Criminal Defense law in Delaware County, James Peters has the knowledge and experience to help you win your case. Mr. Peters is a Delaware County bar association member ready to help you with your claim. Located conveniently in Newtown Square, PA, James Peters is very familiar with Delaware County and its laws. Let attorney James P. Peters help you receive a fair and balanced trial in your Criminal Defense case.

What Constitutes A Criminal Defense Case in Delaware County PA?

Criminal charges are serious accusation, and require the skill of an experienced attorney to ensure that you receive the best possible outcome of your case. The effects of a criminal case can affect your whole life from this point forward.

Criminal Defense Cases can include:

– Assault
– Domestic Violence
– Drug Crimes
– Sex Crimes
– Driving Under the Influence (DUI & DWI)
– Weapons Charges
– Theft and Burglary
– Fraud
– Violent Crime
– Juvenile Crime
– And many other offenses.

If you have been charged with a criminal offense you need an attorney that will listen to your side of the story, and will walk you through your best options for your specific case. You deserve a fair trial and to receive the best outcome available to you within Delaware County law. James P. Peters has defended people based on all of the allegations above in Delaware County, and is ready to offer his experience to your case today.

About Delaware County Courts?

The historic court building in Media, PA is the main court house for Delaware County residents. It is located on W Front Street. Reporting for your own criminal trial can be scary, and the court system can be intimidating. James Peters will help you navigate through the Delaware County court system to help you get the best possible outcome for your case. You need an experienced Criminal Attorney on your side when you are dealt a criminal charge.

Call the Law Offices of James P. Peters

If you have suffered a personal injury in Delaware County, call The Law Offices of James P. Peters at (610) 353-8531. Mr. Peters will put his over 25 years of experience to work for you to make sure you get the compensation that you deserve for your personal injury case.

Motor Vehicle Accidents in Delaware County PA

Who Is James P. Peters?

James Peters has spent over 25 years practicing law in Delaware County, PA, and he is ready to put his experience to work on your Motor Vehicle Accident case. Mr. Peters is a member of the Delaware County Board Association, and is well established in the area. With an office conveniently located in Newtown Square, James Peters is very familiar with Delaware County and the laws that pertain here. If you have been hurt in a Motor Vehicle Accident, let attorney James P. Peters use his knowledge and expertise to help you receive the compensation you deserve.

What Can I Do If I Have Been in a Motor Vehicle Accident in Delaware County PA?

Sometimes car accidents are unavoidable, and they may not be your fault. If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident you deserve to be properly compensated for your injuries from the party responsible. So much more can be damaged beyond your car in a motor vehicle accident, and the damages can affect your future and your livelihood.

Another person’s negligence with a motor vehicle could cause you financial strain, the loss of a job due to inability to work because of your injuries, and mental anguish. You need an experienced lawyer on your side to make sure that you receive the compensation that you deserve and to help you navigate the Delaware County courts.

About Delaware County Courts?

The historic court building on W Front Street in Media, PA is the main court house for Delaware County residents. Courts can be intimidating, especially if you have never navigated the Delaware County court system before. James Peters will listen to your claim and will help you understand the court system and your own case every step of the way. An experienced personal injury lawyer is your best friend when you are involved in a motor vehicle accident lawsuit.

Call the Law Offices of James P. Peters

If you have suffered a personal injury due to a motor vehicle accident in Delaware County, call The Law Offices of James P. Peters at (610) 353-8531. Mr. Peters will put his over 25 years of experience to work for you to make sure you get the compensation that you deserve for your personal injury case.

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Contact Us

  • 610-353-8531
  • 610-353-9171
  • jamespeterslaw@aol.com

Location

  • 17 Veterans Square
    Media, PA 19063


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