Not long ago, we were contacted by someone looking for help dealing with debt.  We spent some time together figuring out whether a Chapter 7 bankruptcy would work for him and looking into some other options.  When we were done, I asked him why he chose our law firm.

I was surprised by the answer.  In addition to the reviews he saw, the reason was that after he reading our web site, he could tell that we cared about helping people. 

That meant so much to me.  All of the content published on our site is something that I write.  It comes from personal experiences with dealing with my clients and friends.  I do not like seeing people struggling with debt when there is a solution.  I am also angered by debt consolidation and other false promises of hope that I see too many people turn to first.

At Ross Law, we have a unique approach to bankruptcy.  We began helping people with debt because one of my friends was operating a trucking business that failed.  With such a business it is easy to rack up huge fuel bills despite working yourself to the bone.  That was our entry into the world of bankruptcy.  We could not find another attorney who was both competent and caring anywhere near our area.  So I learned bankruptcy law to help a friend.  That is how it all started here, it is important to me that our clients know that we support them and are here to help them – even if they are simply reading our web site for the first time.

If you are a first-time reader of our blog, feel free to read other articles or jump right in by calling me today.  As always, I do not charge for an initial consultation to determine if a bankruptcy will help you.

After doing this for many years, one of the things that I have found that is helpful, is that I have practiced many types of law, and my staff has experience in multiple areas as well.  Bankruptcy law interacts with divorce law.  Bankruptcy impacts real estate and home purchases.   (Read other blog article or contact us to learn how it impacts your credit.  You’ll be surprised to learn how quickly your credit can recover.

To all of our readers and clients, stay safe.  Wishing you all a new beginning in 2021.

 As always, bankruptcy consultations are free and we will not disclose your information to anyone.

If you need help managing debt or deciding whether to take a loan, negotiate debts, consolidate debt, or file bankruptcy, call us today.  We will answer your questions.  After we talk, you will understand your options.   

Committed to helping you...

Note:  Right now we are conducting all of our meetings by telephone.

Main Office
One East Third Street
Coudersport, PA 16915
Phone: (570) 309-6690
Phone: (814) 274-8612
Email: TheRossLawFirm@gmail.com

In case you are not familiar with Coudersport 16915, it is the county seat of, Potter County, Pennsylvania, United States.  Right now all of our appointments are by telephone, but should you need to run by to drop off documents, I always recommend visitng our charming little town.  We recommend Olga's for a surprisingly upscale lunch, or the Crittendon for some great cooking.

If you need help in Potter County, McKean County, Elk Count, Cmeron County, Williamsport, Muncy, Lycoming County or Clinton County, give us a call and see the difference paying attention to the little things can make!  We offer convenient consultations by phone.  No need to travel anywhere to speak with us.

Call our bankruptcy attorneys.  We will help you figure out how to get out from the medical bills, loans, credit cards, business debts or whatever the debt is.  Our bankruptcy attorneys care passionately about helping people to be debt free.  Let our bankruptcy attorneys work for you!

If you need help in other areas of the law, our firm handles injury cases, workers compensation, bankruptcy, general litigation, and family law.  We do not charge for car accident consultation or for a bankruptcy evaluation. We take most injury cases on a contingency basis, which mean that you will not owe us anything unless we get money for you.  Leave our office armed with powerful information about your rights.  For Lycoming, Clinton, and Tioga Counties reach us at (570) 309-6690.  For help in McKean and Potter County 16915, call us at  (814) 274-8612. 

 
* Federal law requires the following disclosure: We are a debt relief agency helping people file for relief through bankruptcy under the bankruptcy code.
***Legal Disclaimer: The contents of this site are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice.  No lawyer-client relationship exists until one of our attorneys meets with you and agrees to accept you as a client.

* David B. Ross is an attorney at The Ross Law Firm.

Cities served in Lycoming County: Williamsport, Montoursville, Muncy, Jersey Shore, Hughesville, South Williamsport, Loyalsock Township, Montgomery, Muncy Township, Duboistown, Warrensville, Old Lycoming Township, Salladasburg, Picture Rocks, Hepburn Township, Lycoming Township, Muncy Creek Township, Fairfield Township, Cogan House Township,Woodward Township, Clinton Township, Wolf Township, Nippenose Township, Lewis Township, Armstrong Township, McIntyre Township, Moreland Township, Upper Fairfield Township, Gamble Township, Limestone Township, Piatt Township, Cummings Township, Washington Township, Plunketts Creek Township, Bastress Township, Susquehanna Township, McHenry Township, Pine Township, Anthony Township, Mifflin Township,J Jordan Township, Brown Township, Cascade Township, Franklin Township, Brady Township, Shrewsbury Township, Mill Creek Township, Penn Township, Porter Township, Watson Township, and Jackson Township.

17701 - 17702 - 17703 - 17720 - 17722 - 17723 - 17727 - 17728 - 17737 - 17739 - 17740 - 17742 - 17744 - 17752 - 17754 - 17756 - 17759 - 17762 - 17763 - 17769 - 17771 - 17774 - 17776

Towns and Boroughs served in Clinton County

Lock Haven, Avis, Beech Creek, Flemington, Loganton, Mill Hall, Renovo, South Renovo, Allison, Bald Eagle, Beech Creek, Castanea, Chapman, Colebrook, Crawford, Dunnstable, East Keating, Gallagher, Greene, Grugan, Lamar, Leidy, Logan, Noyes, Pine Creek, Porter, Wayne, West Keating, Woodward

Zip codes served in Clinton County:

16848, 17779, 17747, 17748, 16822, 17750, 17751, 17760, 17764, 17721, 17726, 17729

We also happily assist clients in Clinton County, PA.

Bankruptcy Attorneys happily serving Williamsport, PA.

Today's post is about something that has been on my heart for a long time.  Women.  Or more properly the treatment or mistreatment that is often heaped upon them as they go about the activities of daily life.

I have had too many close friends along with multiple clients who have experienced harassment in daily activities or at work talk with me to about the things they endure, sometimes on a daily basis, to ignore this topic.  My hope is that perhaps one person would think before they speak or act.

I am going to be speaking plainly today, so buckle up.  First, though, understand this is not a rant nor is it a bash of men.  It is a call for respect, civility, and reflection.  We all live and work together on this planet.  We all like to joke and interact, and, if appropriate flirt, and to do all of the things that humans do.  I'm all for it and for celebrating enjoying life.

But, your waitress is not a piece of meat who wants you to say lewd things about her or get your number.  More likely she is a hard working (maybe even holding 2 jobs) woman trying to provide for herself and her family.  That's why she is slaving away working so hard to deliver food to you as fast as she can.

The woman walking down the street going to the post office to pick up the mail for the office is not waiting for you to honk at her or holler out the window as you leer at her on your way by.

Your co-worker does not want to hear your thoughts about her body constantly even though she may seem to smile and laugh.  Nor does she appreciate it when you block her path in the hall or coming up the stairs so she has to talk to you.

The constant onslaught of unsolicited comments all day long is harassing.  It is, by and large, not wanted.  And women should not have to put up with it. 

So think before you speak.  Show some restraint.  Show some respect.  If not for her, at least to avoid getting a letter from me notifying you that we have dual filed a Complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission.

For more information on this topic you can click here to go to the EEOC web site.  Or here to go the the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission web site. 

Please share and spread the word.  Lets make this world a better place for those with whom we share this marvelous world.

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If you are having trouble you can't handle, give us a call.  We practice in the areas of family law, divorce, custody, adoption, personal injury, and bankruptcy in Bradford, PA, Coudersport, PA, Emporium and other areas.   We happily provide  debt relief  to the Williamsport, Wellsboro and Olean and Cattaraugus County, NY areas. Bankruptcy consultations are free. If you are overwhelmed by debt, please call our office at (814) 274-8612. For more information about our NY bankruptcy practice, please visit our bankruptcy website. You can also find more information about our other practice areas on our full litigation firm website.  We offer convenient consultations by phone.  No need to travel anywhere to speak with us.  If you are in Williamsport, click here.

Committed to helping you...
Main Office
One East Third Street
Coudersport, PA 16915
Phone: (570) 309-6690
Phone: (814) 274-8612
Email: TheRossLawFirm@gmail.com

Williamsport Meetings at
125 East 3rd Street, Williamsport PA
(At the office of Ellion and Wayne)

For NY bankruptcy clients, convenient telephone appointments available.

* Free initial consultation applies to bankruptcy and personal injury cases.

** Federal law requires the following disclosure: We are a debt relief agency helping people file for relief through bankruptcy under the bankruptcy code.

***Legal Disclaimer: The contents of this site are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice.  No lawyer-client relationship exists until one of our attorneys meets with you and agrees to accept you as a client.


Privacy policy: We understand that privacy is important. We do not collect any information unless you choose to contact us.  If you choose to contact us, we collect your contact information, which is not disclosed to any third party.  It is used solely to allow us to contact you if you have requested us to contact you.

*** Our attorneys are licensed in PA and also admitted to practice bankruptcy and federal litigation in the Western District of NY.  For our NY friends, we only accept bankruptcy or federal cases brought or that can be brought in the Western District of NY as that is where our attorney is admitted.  For our PA friends, we accept most types of cases.

NY cities served for bankruptcy:  

Allegany, Cattaraugus, Conewango Valley, Dayton, Delevan, East Otto, East Randolph, Ellicottville, Farmersville Station, Franklinville, Freedom, Gowanda, Great Valley, Hinsdale, Kill Buck, Leon, Limestone, Little Valley, Machias, Olean, Otto, Perrysburg, Portville, Randolph, Saint Bonaventure, Salamanca, Sandusky, South Dayton, Steamburg, Versailles, West Valley, Westons Mills, Yorkshire.


NY zip codes served for bankruptcy:

14719, 14727, 14129, 14729, 14730, 14133, 14731, 14737, 14041, 14741, 14042, 14743, 14748, 14168, 14751, 14171, 14753, 14173, 14755,, 14060, 14760, 14766, 14065, 14770, 14772, 14778, 14779, 14783, 14706, 14788, 14101

If you are in Bradford, PA, give us a call.  We are often in McKean County helping people just like you.

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Cities served by County and zip code are the following:

Warren County, PA

Bear Lake, Chandlers Valley, Clarendon, Columbus, Garland, Grand Valley, Irvine, Pittsfield, Russell, Sheffield, Spring Creek, Sugar Grove, Tidioute, Tiona, Warren, Youngsville

McKean County, PA

Bradford, Crosby, Custer City, Cyclone, Derrick City, Duke Center, East Smethport, Eldred, Gifford, Hazel Hurst, Kane, Lewis Run, Ludlow, Mount Jewett, Port Allegany, Rew, Rixford, Smethport,Turtlepoint

Potter County, PA

16948, 16746, 16915, 16922, 16923, 16927, 16720, 16937, 16941

Tioga County, PA

We also serve Western NY, Cattaraugus County and the Olean area.  This practice is limited to bankruptcy in the Western District of NY.  For NY bankruptcy clients, convenient telephone appointments available.  See our full Olean, Ny site here.

* Federal law requires the following disclosure: We are a debt relief agency helping people file for relief through bankruptcy under the bankruptcy code.

** There are other types of bankruptcies.  Chapter 11 is for businesses and Chapter 12 applies to farms.
***Legal Disclaimer: The contents of this site are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice.  No lawyer-client relationship exists until one of our attorneys meets with you and agrees to accept you as a client.

Filing for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy | Olean, NY | Warren Pennsylvania

Dealing with a mountain of debt can be scary.  Filing for bankruptcy doesn't have to be if you hire our firm.  It is our #1 goal to help you overcome debt and to believe in your ability to succeed again.  We are excited and passionate about doing this for our cllients.  You wil lfind this same level of commitment from our bankruptcy lawyer, to our bankruptcy paralegal and our staff.  We all understand that life throws unexpected circumstances at us - unexepcted bills, loss of job, medical bills, divorce.  The list goes on and on.  We will never judge you because we know how difficult and embarrsing this is; we are here to help you.  Call now for help - the consultation is free!  No strings attached.

In this article we outline the basics of the process.  When you call us, we will go over this and more in much more detail.

When you are trying to figure out whether to file for bankruptcy, the process is complicated but we will get you through it with ease.  The process is the same regardless of whether you are in Bradford, McKean County, PA, Olean, New York, or Warren, PA.  All petitions for bankruptcy will be filed in the Western District - either in Pennsylvania or New York dpending upon where you live.  After your petition is prepared and filed, there will be what they call the Meeting of Creditors, which will occur either in Olean for our New York clients or in Warren for our PA clients.

So how do we decide whether to file for bankruptcy?  When you and I meet, which can be in person if you want, or it can be over the telephone so you do not have to travel, I will ask you some general questions about your income, your secured and unsecured debt, your house value and mortgage, your other assets, and questions about recent transactions like tax refunds, payments to creditors and family. 

Based upon your responses, we can usually determine whether bankruptcy is the right choice and whether to file a Chapter 13 or a Chapter 7 bankruptcy.  The next step is for you to gather together documents related to the questions that I asked you so we can verify income and debts and assets for the Court.  Using those documents, I will prepare your paperwork (the petition) that asks the Court for help by way of an order discharging your unsecured debt.

The entire process is often only 4 months long.  So if you would like to be debt freee in 4 months, call today!  (814) 274-8612

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Here is our clients are saying:

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If you are having trouble you can't handle, give us a call.  We practice in the areas of family law, divorce, custody, adoption, personal injury, and bankruptcy in Bradford, PA, Coudersport, PA, Emporium and other areas.   We happily provide  debt relief  to the Willaimsport, Wellsboro and Olean and Cattaraugus County, NY areas. Bankruptcy consultations are free. If you are overwhelmed by debt, please call our office at (814) 274-8612. For more information about our NY bankruptcy practice, please visit our bankruptcy website. You can also find more information about our other practice areas on our full litigation firm website.  We offer convenient consultations by phone.  No need to travel anywhere to speak with us.  If you are in Williamsport, click here.

Committed to helping you...
Main Office
One East Third Street
Coudersport, PA 16915
Phone: (570) 309-6690
Phone: (814) 274-8612
Email: TheRossLawFirm@gmail.com

Williamsport Meetings at
125 East 3rd Street, Williamsport PA
(At the office of Ellion and Wayne)

For NY bankruptcy clients, convenient telephone appointments available.

* Free initial consultation applies to bankruptcy and personal injury cases.

** Federal law requires the following disclosure: We are a debt relief agency helping people file for relief through bankruptcy under the bankruptcy code.

***Legal Disclaimer: The contents of this site are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice.  No lawyer-client relationship exists until one of our attorneys meets with you and agrees to accept you as a client.


Privacy policy: We understand that privacy is important. We do not collect any information unless you choose to contact us.  If you choose to contact us, we collect your contact information, which is not disclosed to any third party.  It is used solely to allow us to contact you if you have requested us to contact you.

*** Our attorneys are licensed in PA and also admitted to practice bankruptcy and federal litigation in the Western District of NY.  For our NY friends, we only accept bankruptcy or federal cases brought or that can be brought in the Western District of NY as that is where our attorney is admitted.  For our PA friends, we accept most types of cases.

NY cities served for bankruptcy:  

Allegany, Cattaraugus, Conewango Valley, Dayton, Delevan, East Otto, East Randolph, Ellicottville, Farmersville Station, Franklinville, Freedom, Gowanda, Great Valley, Hinsdale, Kill Buck, Leon, Limestone, Little Valley, Machias, Olean, Otto, Perrysburg, Portville, Randolph, Saint Bonaventure, Salamanca, Sandusky, South Dayton, Steamburg, Versailles, West Valley, Westons Mills, Yorkshire.


NY zip codes served for bankruptcy:

14719, 14727, 14129, 14729, 14730, 14133, 14731, 14737, 14041, 14741, 14042, 14743, 14748, 14168, 14751, 14171, 14753, 14173, 14755,, 14060, 14760, 14766, 14065, 14770, 14772, 14778, 14779, 14783, 14706, 14788, 14101

If you are in Bradford, PA, give us a call.  We are often in McKean County helping people just like you.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

Cities served by County and zip code are the following:

Warren County, PA

Bear Lake, Chandlers Valley, Clarendon, Columbus, Garland, Grand Valley, Irvine, Pittsfield, Russell, Sheffield, Spring Creek, Sugar Grove, Tidioute, Tiona, Warren, Youngsville

McKean County, PA

Bradford, Crosby, Custer City, Cyclone, Derrick City, Duke Center, East Smethport, Eldred, Gifford, Hazel Hurst, Kane, Lewis Run, Ludlow, Mount Jewett, Port Allegany, Rew, Rixford, Smethport,Turtlepoint

Potter County, PA

16948, 16746, 16915, 16922, 16923, 16927, 16720, 16937, 16941

Tioga County, PA

We also serve Western NY, Cattaraugus County and the Olean area.  This practice is limited to bankruptcy in the Western District of NY.  For NY bankruptcy clients, convenient telephone appointments available.  See our full Olean, Ny site here.

* Federal law requires the following disclosure: We are a debt relief agency helping people file for relief through bankruptcy under the bankruptcy code.

** There are other types of bankruptcies.  Chapter 11 is for businesses and Chapter 12 applies to farms.
***Legal Disclaimer: The contents of this site are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice.  No lawyer-client relationship exists until one of our attorneys meets with you and agrees to accept you as a client.

5 Ways to Cope with Adversity from Divorce to Bankruptcy

By David B. Ross, Esq | Bankruptcy, Divorce and Custody Attorney| Bradford, McKean County, Pa, Coudersport, Potter County, PA

1. Focus on Your Goals

When some problem is demanding your constant attention and sapping your mental energy, it is easy to lose sight of your goals. But figuring out where you are going and how you are going to get there may be exactly what you need to go over, under, or through your present circumstance.  If you find yourself discouraged about where you are, sit down and focus on what you really want.  This is how you make sure you get there!.  So close your eyes and picture your goals.  Don’t let them slip away!

2. Forget About Your Problem

Let’s face it, when life is in your face, sometimes you just need a break.  It’s ok to say to yourself, “ I need some time.”  Step away from the negativity that is trying to take over your life. When we continue to focus on the problem, we usually just make it worse either in reality or in what we allow our obsession over it to do to us.

Give yourself permission to do something else.  No more repeating “I cannot believe this happened to me.”  

Stepping away can just be a few minutes to yourself with a pint of ice cream.  It could be a walk or a visit to the gym.  It could even be a little get away vacation.  Or if you really want to get out of your own head, try focusing on someone else’s needs and help someone else. 

Don’t forget about friends and family.   Sometimes we isolate ourselves and we lose the power of others when we do that!  Don’t let fear or embarrassment or hurt rob you of relationships. 

3. Focus on the Solution

If you focus only on the problem, it gets bigger.  If you think about solutions, the problem becomes smaller.  If the problem is too big, try solving just a small part of it.  You will be surprised by how freeing that can be!  If you can’t handle it by yourself, try friends, family, or a professional.  Many times people come to our law firm with what to them are huge problems with family matters, debt, or bankruptcy.  Together, we often find the solution!  Sometimes it is immediate.  Sometimes it is step by step, but there is power in finding a solution.

4. Be careful who you hang around

Your thoughts are influenced by who you listen to.  Find people who are positive.  Don’t listen to the naysayers .  Find someone who believes in you.  We all need those people.

5. Count Your Blessings

Sometimes it is good to remind ourselves of the positive things that have happened.  It helps to put our lives in perspective.  Today’s problem is really just a speed bump in the road most times.  When compared to a lifetime of blessing, we realize it’s not so big or so bad.

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If you are having trouble you can't handle, give us a call.  We practice in the areas of family law, divorce, custody, adoption, personal injury, and bankruptcy in Bradford, PA, Coudersport, PA, Emporium and other areas.   We happily provide  debt relief  to the Willaimsport, Wellsboro and Olean and Cattaraugus County, NY areas. Bankruptcy consultations are free. If you are overwhelmed by debt, please call our office at (814) 274-8612. For more information about our NY bankruptcy practice, please visit our bankruptcy website. You can also find more information about our other practice areas on our full litigation firm website.  We offer convenient consultations by phone.  No need to travel anywhere to speak with us.  If you are in Williamsport, click here.

Committed to helping you...
Main Office
One East Third Street
Coudersport, PA 16915
Phone: (570) 309-6690
Phone: (814) 274-8612
Email: TheRossLawFirm@gmail.com

Williamsport Meetings at
125 East 3rd Street, Williamsport PA
(At the office of Ellion and Wayne)

For NY bankruptcy clients, convenient telephone appointments available.

* Free initial consultation applies to bankruptcy and personal injury cases.

** Federal law requires the following disclosure: We are a debt relief agency helping people file for relief through bankruptcy under the bankruptcy code.

***Legal Disclaimer: The contents of this site are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice.  No lawyer-client relationship exists until one of our attorneys meets with you and agrees to accept you as a client.


Privacy policy: We understand that privacy is important. We do not collect any information unless you choose to contact us.  If you choose to contact us, we collect your contact information, which is not disclosed to any third party.  It is used solely to allow us to contact you if you have requested us to contact you.

*** Our attorneys are licensed in PA and also admitted to practice bankruptcy and federal litigation in the Western District of NY.  For our NY friends, we only accept bankruptcy or federal cases brought or that can be brought in the Western District of NY as that is where our attorney is admitted.  For our PA friends, we accept most types of cases.

NY cities served for bankruptcy:  

Allegany, Cattaraugus, Conewango Valley, Dayton, Delevan, East Otto, East Randolph, Ellicottville, Farmersville Station, Franklinville, Freedom, Gowanda, Great Valley, Hinsdale, Kill Buck, Leon, Limestone, Little Valley, Machias, Olean, Otto, Perrysburg, Portville, Randolph, Saint Bonaventure, Salamanca, Sandusky, South Dayton, Steamburg, Versailles, West Valley, Westons Mills, Yorkshire.


NY zip codes served for bankruptcy:

14719, 14727, 14129, 14729, 14730, 14133, 14731, 14737, 14041, 14741, 14042, 14743, 14748, 14168, 14751, 14171, 14753, 14173, 14755,, 14060, 14760, 14766, 14065, 14770, 14772, 14778, 14779, 14783, 14706, 14788, 14101

If you are in Bradford, PA, give us a call.  We are often in McKean County helping people just like you.

Firm News

We have expanded to offer bankruptcy services in the Western District of New York, which includes Olean, Limestone, Cattaraugus County and surrounding areas.  Our new site is www.oleanbankruptcyattorney.com Here is a link to a recent blog post on why bankruptcy may be just what the doctor ordered: Article  

False Statements when Purchasing a Firearm

18 Pa.C.S. 6111(g)(4) 

Making a false statement while trying to purchase a firearm is a serious crime, and you should seek representation immediately if you are facing this charge.  (Our criminal defense attorney practices in Tioga County, McKean County, and Potter County, PA.)  The statute involved and the form that you have to fill out when purchasing a firearm are needlessly complicated and result in a number of people who are trying to do the right thing being charged in Pennsylvania each year. 

Pennsylvania is one of the States that investigates each and every allegation that a purchaser has made a false statement on his fire arm purchasing forms.  The combination of aggressive investigation and unfortunately complicated forms results in a large number of serious criminal charges being levied each year.  Our law firm has had great success in either having the charges withdrawn or reduced.  We know the defenses to this charge.  If you were charges in Tioga, Potter or McKean County, PA, you should call us so that we can evaluate the evidence against you.  

Gun Charges For False Statements

Pennsylvania law makes it illegal to knowingly make a false statement in the purchase of a firearm. Every person who purchases a gun in a retail establishment will undergo a state and federal background check in Pennsylvania. In Pennsylvania, such a false statement is a felony of the Third Degree.

Most people understand that a felony conviction prohibits them from owning a firearm.  But did you know that any offense for which you could receive 12 months or more will also prohibit you from purchasing a firearm?  We see this a lot.  People who, for example, had a DUI and who received less than a year sentence do not realize that under certain circumstances a DIUI could result in a year or more in jail.  Most of the time, it is several years later when the individual attempts to purchase a firearm.  They simply do not remember how much time a DUI could have carried.  They only remember how much they actually received for the DUI.  

Other examples of disqualifying events include an active PFA or an involuntary commitment to a mental health facility.  We have also seen more than one circumstance where a voluntary commitment was improperly reported as an involuntary commitment, which resulted in felony charges being improperly brought against our client.

If you have any type of criminal record or anything else which you believe could prohibit you from owning a firearm, you should review applicable statute and consult with an attorney before you try to purchase a firearm. 

Give us a call today:  (814) 274-8612 or (570) 309-6690.  Our attorneys will help you to reach your goals.  We have friendly and helpful staff members when you just need to talk to someone.

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The purpose of this article is not to provide an exhaustive list of those events that could result in a charge for making a false statement.  Instead, this article is for general information so that you can be aware of this hidden landmine in the law and take steps to make sure that you know how and whether you can legally purchase a firearm in Pennsylvania.

From offices in Coudersport, Potter County, Pennsylvania, the attorneys at Ross and Ross, LLC serve the personal injury, bankruptcy, social security disability, divorce and family law needs of Western, Northwestern, Central and North Central Pennsylvania including the communities of Coudersport, Galeton, Shinglehouse, West Branch, Smethport, Port Allegany, Bradford, Roulette, and Wellsboro, as well as Potter County, McKean County, Tioga County, Cameron County, Bradford County and other areas of Western PA and Central PA.

Pennsylvania Cities served by County:
McKean County, PA
Aiken, Betula, Big Shanty, Bradford, Bullis Mills, Burning Well, Ceres, Clermont, Colegrove, Corwins Corners, Coryville, Crosby, Custer City, Cyclone, Dallas City, Degolia, Derrick City, Duke Center, East Kane, East Smethport, Eldred, Farmers Valley, Foster Brook, Freeman, Gardeau, Gifford, Gilmore, Griffiths, Hazel Hurst, Hazelton Mills, Hutchins, Kane, Kanesholm, Kasson, Kushequa, Lafayette, Lantz Corners, Larabee, Lewis Run, Liberty, Ludlow, Marshburg, Marvindale, Mount Alton, Mount Jewett, Myrtle, Ormsby, Port Allegany, Prentisvale, Rew, Rixford, Sergeant, Smethport, Tally Ho, Turtlepoint, Westline, Westmore, Wrights, Wrights Corners

Potter County, PA
Andrews Settlement,  Austin, Brookland, Burtville, Carter Camp , Cherry Springs, Clara, Colesburg, Coneville, Conrad, Costello, Coudersport, Cross Fork, Eleven Mile, Ellisburg, Elmer, Galeton, Genesee, Germania, Germania Station, Gold, Harrison Valley, Hebron, Hebron Center, Honeoye, Inez, Keating Summit, Loucks Mills, Millport, Mills, Mina, Newfield, North Bingham, North Fork, Odin, Oleona, Oswayo, Potato City, Raymond, Roulette, Sharon Center, Shinglehouse, Sunderlinville, Sweden Valley, Ulysses, West Bingham, Wharton

Tioga County, PA
Academy Corners, Ansonia, Antrim, Arnot, Austinburg, Blackwell, Blossburg, Brookfield, Canoe Camp, Cherry Flats, Covington, Cowanesque, Daggett, Davis, Draper, Eastpoint, Elbridge, Elkland, Fallbrook, Farmington, Gaines, Gleason, Hartfield, Holliday, Jackson Summit, Jobs Corner, Keeneyville, Knapp, Knoxville, Lawrenceville, Leetonia, Leolyn, Liberty, Little Marsh, Mainesburg, Mansfield, Marshland, Middlebury Center, Millerton, Morris, Morris Run, Nauvoo, Nelson, Niles Valley, Ogdensburg, Osceola, Potter Brook, Rexford, Roaring Branch, Roseville, Round Top, Sabinsville, Sebring, Stonyfork, Tiadaghton, Tioga, Trowbridge, Watrous, Wellsboro, Westfield

Our attorneys are licensed in PA and GA.  We cannot provide legal advice involving any other state.

Zip codes served: 15870 16701 16720 16726 16727 16729 16731 16732 16735 16738 16740 16743 16744 16745 16748 16749 16750 16901 16912 16914 16917 16920 16921 16928 16929 16930 16932 16933 16935 16936 16938 16942 16943 16946 16947 16950 17724 17765 15834 16720 16743 16746 16748 16915 16921 16922 16923 16927 16937 16941 16943 16948 17729 15832 15834 15861 16720 15821 15822 15823 15824 15827 15828 15832 15834 15845 15846 15853 15857 15860 15868 15870 16728 16735

Attorney David B. Ross is responsible for the content of this site.  PO Box 310, Coudersport, PA 16915

What is Harassment by Text? - Potter and Mckean County, PA Attorney

By David B. Ross, Esq.

Many people are shocked to find themselves charged with Harassment because of something that they texted or posted on line.  Such a charges can be an absolute shock when we are taught that we have freedom of speech. 

The relevant statute in PA is 18 Pa. CSA 2709.  

§  2709.  Harassment.

(a)  Offense defined.--A person commits the crime of harassment when, with intent to harass, annoy or alarm another, the person:

(1)  strikes, shoves, kicks or otherwise subjects the other person to physical contact, or attempts or threatens to do the same;

(2)  follows the other person in or about a public place or places;

(3)  engages in a course of conduct or repeatedly commits acts which serve no legitimate purpose;

(4)  communicates to or about such other person any lewd, lascivious, threatening or obscene words, language, drawings or caricatures;

(5)  communicates repeatedly in an anonymous manner;

(6)  communicates repeatedly at extremely inconvenient hours; or

(7)  communicates repeatedly in a manner other than specified in paragraphs (4), (5) and (6).

 (c)  Grading.--

(1)  Except as provided under paragraph (3), an offense under subsection (a)(1), (2) or (3) shall constitute a summary offense.

(2)  An offense under subsection (a)(4), (5), (6) or (7) or (a.1) shall constitute a misdemeanor of the third degree.

 The Courts have interpreted this to include sending a text after being told to stop or sending a series of texts with no legitimate purpose.  The statute is intended to stop people from being able to harass other individuals by repeatedly sending unwanted communications.  Unfortunately, the statute has also been weaponized by people who provoke conversations and then claim that the communication was unwanted.  We see this a lot in the context of divorce or break ups. 

If you have been accused of harassment, call our law firm to inquire about a consultation.  You may very well have a defense if the communication was for a legitimate purpose or was invited by the other party.  Evidence of exactly what happened is important.  Do not delete the messages.  Your attorney will need to review them.  If you delete them, you may well delete the only defense that you have.

Give us a call today:  (814) 274-8612 or (570) 309-6690.  Our attorneys will help you to reach your goals.  We have friendly and helpful staff members when you just need to talk to someone.

* Federal law requires the following disclosure: We are a debt relief agency helping people file for relief through bankruptcy under the bankruptcy code.

** There are other types of bankruptcies.  Chapter 11 is for businesses and Chapter 12 applies to farms.
***Legal Disclaimer: The contents of this site are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice.  No lawyer-client relationship exists until one of our attorneys meets with you and agrees to accept you as a client.

Pennsylvania Cities served by County:
McKean County, PA
Aiken, Betula, Big Shanty, Bradford, Bullis Mills, Burning Well, Ceres, Clermont, Colegrove, Corwins Corners, Coryville, Crosby, Custer City, Cyclone, Dallas City, Degolia, Derrick City, Duke Center, East Kane, East Smethport, Eldred, Farmers Valley, Foster Brook, Freeman, Gardeau, Gifford, Gilmore, Griffiths, Hazel Hurst, Hazelton Mills, Hutchins, Kane, Kanesholm, Kasson, Kushequa, Lafayette, Lantz Corners, Larabee, Lewis Run, Liberty, Ludlow, Marshburg, Marvindale, Mount Alton, Mount Jewett, Myrtle, Ormsby, Port Allegany, Prentisvale, Rew, Rixford, Sergeant, Smethport, Tally Ho, Turtlepoint, Westline, Westmore, Wrights, Wrights Corners

Potter County, PA
Andrews Settlement,  Austin, Brookland, Burtville, Carter Camp , Cherry Springs, Clara, Colesburg, Coneville, Conrad, Costello, Coudersport, Cross Fork, Eleven Mile, Ellisburg, Elmer, Galeton, Genesee, Germania, Germania Station, Gold, Harrison Valley, Hebron, Hebron Center, Honeoye, Inez, Keating Summit, Loucks Mills, Millport, Mills, Mina, Newfield, North Bingham, North Fork, Odin, Oleona, Oswayo, Potato City, Raymond, Roulette, Sharon Center, Shinglehouse, Sunderlinville, Sweden Valley, Ulysses, West Bingham, Wharton

Tioga County, PA
Academy Corners, Ansonia, Antrim, Arnot, Austinburg, Blackwell, Blossburg, Brookfield, Canoe Camp, Cherry Flats, Covington, Cowanesque, Daggett, Davis, Draper, Eastpoint, Elbridge, Elkland, Fallbrook, Farmington, Gaines, Gleason, Hartfield, Holliday, Jackson Summit, Jobs Corner, Keeneyville, Knapp, Knoxville, Lawrenceville, Leetonia, Leolyn, Liberty, Little Marsh, Mainesburg, Mansfield, Marshland, Middlebury Center, Millerton, Morris, Morris Run, Nauvoo, Nelson, Niles Valley, Ogdensburg, Osceola, Potter Brook, Rexford, Roaring Branch, Roseville, Round Top, Sabinsville, Sebring, Stonyfork, Tiadaghton, Tioga, Trowbridge, Watrous, Wellsboro, Westfield

Our attorneys are licensed in PA and GA.  We cannot provide legal advice involving any other state.

Zip codes served: 15870 16701 16720 16726 16727 16729 16731 16732 16735 16738 16740 16743 16744 16745 16748 16749 16750 16901 16912 16914 16917 16920 16921 16928 16929 16930 16932 16933 16935 16936 16938 16942 16943 16946 16947 16950 17724 17765 15834 16720 16743 16746 16748 16915 16921 16922 16923 16927 16937 16941 16943 16948 17729 15832 15834 15861 16720 15821 15822 15823 15824 15827 15828 15832 15834 15845 15846 15853 15857 15860 15868 15870 16728 16735 17701 17702 17703

Attorney David B. Ross is responsible for the content of this site.  PO Box 310, Coudersport, PA 16915

Coudersport Borough may not sell Arboretum

In a not unsurprising opinion, Senior Judge, Michael Williamson has ruled that the Borough may not sell the land near Sheetz that has been used for a public park. In what was characterized as a "weak argument by the Judge," the Borough argued it could no longer maintain the park.

 Our attorneys have been following the case for some time, and the Judge's ruling is exactly what we anticipated as the Borough has no basis to claim that it cannot maintain the Park.

Regardless of what you think of the outcome, it was great to see the law fairly applied.

It is unclear what will happen to the caboose, which has been a central character in the saga. At one time, John Wright was said to have facilitated the purchase for a land developer from the Chamber of Commerce. More recently, the Borough has claimed ownership of the caboose. The Historical Society at one point expressed interest in the little Bobber. We can only hope that this historical gem is preserved for all to enjoy.

Here is a copy of the entire opinion if you would like to read it.

New penalties are now in effect in Pennsylvania for habitually violating the state law on driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

You can expect that State Troopers will periodically being aggressively enforcing the new DUI laws in Potter County Pennsylvania, Bradford and McKean County PA, and Wellsboro and Tioga County PA.   Our PA DUI lawyers note that State Troopers often use violations consisting for speeding, reckless driving, seat belt violations, and child seat belt infractions, stop lights, and turn signal infractions as a pretext to stop drivers suspected of DUI.

Pennsylvania’s stricter penalties for repeat offenders were signed into law by Gov. Tom Wolf on Oct. 24, as Act 153 of 2018.

Under the new law, any individual convicted of their third DUI with a blood-alcohol content of 0.16 or higher could be found guilty of a felony offense.

The same penalty would apply to all individuals convicted of four or more DUI offenses.

The law also increases penalties for motorists who cause the death of another person as a result of a DUI, including a potential first-degree felony charge for repeat offenders. It allows for an additional five years' imprisonment for a person who commits homicide by vehicle while driving without a license or driving under suspension. It provides for up to an additional two years imprisonment for a person who commits aggravated assault when driving without a license.

In addition, the law increases the penalty for driving under suspension for a prior DUI, from a summary offense with a minimum $500 fine and up to 60 days in jail to a summary offense with a mandatory minimum of 90 days in jail and $1,000 for a second offense, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. A third and subsequent offense will be a misdemeanor of the third degree with a mandatory $2,500 fine and six months in jail.  Those under 21 who drive may face penalties with any amount of alcohol in their system.

As always, our DUI lawyers urge travelers to “Think before You Drink” and be mindful of continuing efforts to enforce the legal blood alcohol limit of 0.08 for adult drivers.  While our attorneys can help you with your DUI, the best option is always to plan ahead, drink responsibly, and have a ride home with a sober friend or use an UBER. 

Give us a call today:  (814) 274-8612 or (570) 309-6690.  Our attorneys will help you to reach your goals.  We have friendly and helpful staff members when you just need to talk to someone.

* Federal law requires the following disclosure: We are a debt relief agency helping people file for relief through bankruptcy under the bankruptcy code.

** There are other types of bankruptcies.  Chapter 11 is for businesses and Chapter 12 applies to farms.
***Legal Disclaimer: The contents of this site are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice.  No lawyer-client relationship exists until one of our attorneys meets with you and agrees to accept you as a client.

Pennsylvania Cities served by County:
McKean County, PA
Aiken, Betula, Big Shanty, Bradford, Bullis Mills, Burning Well, Ceres, Clermont, Colegrove, Corwins Corners, Coryville, Crosby, Custer City, Cyclone, Dallas City, Degolia, Derrick City, Duke Center, East Kane, East Smethport, Eldred, Farmers Valley, Foster Brook, Freeman, Gardeau, Gifford, Gilmore, Griffiths, Hazel Hurst, Hazelton Mills, Hutchins, Kane, Kanesholm, Kasson, Kushequa, Lafayette, Lantz Corners, Larabee, Lewis Run, Liberty, Ludlow, Marshburg, Marvindale, Mount Alton, Mount Jewett, Myrtle, Ormsby, Port Allegany, Prentisvale, Rew, Rixford, Sergeant, Smethport, Tally Ho, Turtlepoint, Westline, Westmore, Wrights, Wrights Corners

Potter County, PA
Andrews Settlement,  Austin, Brookland, Burtville, Carter Camp , Cherry Springs, Clara, Colesburg, Coneville, Conrad, Costello, Coudersport, Cross Fork, Eleven Mile, Ellisburg, Elmer, Galeton, Genesee, Germania, Germania Station, Gold, Harrison Valley, Hebron, Hebron Center, Honeoye, Inez, Keating Summit, Loucks Mills, Millport, Mills, Mina, Newfield, North Bingham, North Fork, Odin, Oleona, Oswayo, Potato City, Raymond, Roulette, Sharon Center, Shinglehouse, Sunderlinville, Sweden Valley, Ulysses, West Bingham, Wharton

Tioga County, PA
Academy Corners, Ansonia, Antrim, Arnot, Austinburg, Blackwell, Blossburg, Brookfield, Canoe Camp, Cherry Flats, Covington, Cowanesque, Daggett, Davis, Draper, Eastpoint, Elbridge, Elkland, Fallbrook, Farmington, Gaines, Gleason, Hartfield, Holliday, Jackson Summit, Jobs Corner, Keeneyville, Knapp, Knoxville, Lawrenceville, Leetonia, Leolyn, Liberty, Little Marsh, Mainesburg, Mansfield, Marshland, Middlebury Center, Millerton, Morris, Morris Run, Nauvoo, Nelson, Niles Valley, Ogdensburg, Osceola, Potter Brook, Rexford, Roaring Branch, Roseville, Round Top, Sabinsville, Sebring, Stonyfork, Tiadaghton, Tioga, Trowbridge, Watrous, Wellsboro, Westfield

Our attorneys are licensed in PA and GA.  We cannot provide legal advice involving any other state.

Zip codes served: 15870 16701 16720 16726 16727 16729 16731 16732 16735 16738 16740 16743 16744 16745 16748 16749 16750 16901 16912 16914 16917 16920 16921 16928 16929 16930 16932 16933 16935 16936 16938 16942 16943 16946 16947 16950 17724 17765 15834 16720 16743 16746 16748 16915 16921 16922 16923 16927 16937 16941 16943 16948 17729 15832 15834 15861 16720 15821 15822 15823 15824 15827 15828 15832 15834 15845 15846 15853 15857 15860 15868 15870 16728 16735 17701 17702 17703

Attorney David B. Ross is responsible for the content of this site.  PO Box 310, Coudersport, PA 16915

Changes to Pennsylvania’s DUI laws are here.

David B. Ross, Esq is a former prosecuting attorney who handles DUI cases in Potter County, Tioga County and McKean County Pennsylvania.

The new law focuses primarily on ignition interlock devices.  It went into effect in August of 2018, with some of the changes not going into effect until October of 2018.

The purpose of the law was to provide for greater restrictions on certain DUI offenders while at the same time allowing even first-time offenders to receive a limited license once an ignition interlock device is installed on your vehicle. The goal of the law is to prevent DUI offenders from driving drunk while at the same time allowing them to keep their licenses so that they do not lose employment.

Previously, DUI laws prevented you from obtaining an ignition interlock device for a first offense.

Ignition interlock devices will be expensive. The cost to the driver will likely range from $650 to $1100 for the ignition interlock. However, PennDOT does offer a program for defendants who are unable to afford the device. Additionally, if the defendant drives an employer-owned vehicle for work, the defendant may submit the appropriate documentation to PennDOT in order to apply for a waiver of the ignition interlock requirement for the employer-owned vehicle

If you are facing a DUI in Coudersport, Potter County, PA or Bradford or Smethport, McKean County Pennsylvania, call our DUI lawyer to discuss your options.  We will review your case to determine what defenses you have and what your options are, including an ARD, plea, withdrawal of charges, or trial.

More information about the changes can be found at the DMV website here.