How to approach estate planning in a second marriage

Second marriages bring exciting new beginnings, but also new estate planning challenges. If you have children from a prior relationship, joint assets, or different financial goals from your new spouse, you need a plan that protects everyone involved. Without clear, legally binding estate planning documents, your biological children’s inheritances may be at risk, or your […]
What is a legal complaint in truck accident cases?

A legal complaint is the official document that starts a truck accident lawsuit. It explains the facts of the case and outlines the legal reasons the injured person is seeking compensation. This document is filed in civil court and marks the beginning of the legal process. Truck crashes involving commercial vehicles often leave victims with […]
Can you sue for a dog bite?

Yes, you can sue for a dog bite in many cases, especially if you suffered injuries that required medical treatment or resulted in financial losses. Dog bite victims in New Hampshire and Maine have legal options to pursue compensation under dog bite laws, but the specific rules vary by state. In general, when a dog […]
What is mediation in a personal injury case?

Mediation is a structured and confidential process that helps resolve personal injury claims without going to trial. In Maine, mediation is ordered as part of the pre-trial process in civil injury cases, depending on the court’s scheduling order. At Shaheen & Gordon, our Maine personal injury lawyers help clients navigate every stage of mediation and […]
How difficult is a nursing home abuse case to win?

Nursing home abuse cases can be difficult to win, but with the right legal support, you can improve your chances. The outcome depends on the type of abuse, how much evidence is available, and how willing the nursing facility is to cooperate. If you believe a loved one has been mistreated in a nursing home, […]
Who investigates nursing home abuse?

If you suspect a loved one is being abused or neglected in a nursing home, knowing who to contact can make all the difference. In Maine, several state agencies are responsible for investigating reports of nursing home abuse, and they have the authority to intervene, assess care conditions, and refer cases for legal action if […]
How common is nursing home abuse?

Nursing home abuse is alarmingly common. In the United States, studies show that 1 in 5 older adults has experienced some form of elder abuse, especially those living in long-term care facilities. Even more concerning, experts estimate that only 1 in 24 cases of abuse or neglect is ever reported. If you believe a loved […]
Do dog bites have to be reported in Maine?

In many cases, yes. It’s always a good idea to report a dog bite to local authorities, especially when the bite causes an injury that requires medical treatment. Reporting a dog bite helps protect both the bite victim and the community by making sure the dog is evaluated for health risks and potential danger to […]
Can a personal injury case be reopened?

One of the most common concerns people have after settling an injury case is: Can a personal injury case be reopened? After all, injuries can worsen, new medical treatment may be needed, and unforeseen complications can arise long after the case seems closed. In most situations, once a personal injury settlement is finalized, it is […]
What does litigation mean in a personal injury case?

If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence—whether in a car accident, a slip and fall, or any other type of incident—you may hear the term “litigation” used when discussing your legal options. But what does litigation mean in a personal injury case, and how does it impact your ability to seek compensation? In […]