FAQs

If you're involved in an accident in a state where you don't reside in, the laws of that state will apply to your case. This can significantly impact on the viability and value of your claim. For this reason, it's crucial to contact an attorney as soon as possible after the accident. An experienced lawyer can help you navigate the different laws and ensure you receive the compensation you're entitled to.

After an accident, the first thing you should do is gather important information. Make sure to get the names and addresses of the other driver(s) involved. With today's technology, it's easiest to use your cell phone to take photos of their driver's license, insurance card, and vehicle registration. You should also photograph the vehicles involved, including any damage, as well as the scene of the accident. Additionally, make sure to get the names and contact information of any witnesses. By doing this, you'll save valuable time and help ensure a smoother investigation of your claim.

Churches play an essential role in supporting their faith communities, yet they must also adhere to legal and business requirements. Todd Pounds and Alexander & Cleaver, P.A. are well regarded for providing trusted, efficient legal support to churches of all sizes. With expertise in contracts and a commitment to responsive service, we are a valuable resource for churches navigating legal matters. Alexander & Cleaver, P.A. stands ready to support your church with any of its legal needs.

While you can represent yourself, DUI laws are complex, and a lawyer can help negotiate plea deals, challenge evidence, or fight for reduced penalties. Hiring a DUI attorney is highly recommended. The attorneys at Alexander & Cleaver, P.A., are experienced in DUI cases and are ready to reduce the penalties for your case.

At Alexander & Cleaver, P.A., we are fortunate to represent several municipalities throughout Prince George’s County, providing comprehensive legal services tailored to the unique needs of local governments. Our work with these municipalities includes: 1. Litigation: We assist municipalities in managing and resolving legal disputes, whether involving civil matters, regulatory issues, or other legal challenges. 2. Contracts: Our firm helps local governments navigate complex contracts, ensuring they are legally sound and in the best interest of the municipality. 3. Personnel Issues: We handle matters related to employment law, including employee disputes, labor negotiations, and compliance with state and federal employment regulations. 4. Regulatory Compliance: Municipalities must deal with a range of state and local regulations. We assist with navigating these requirements, helping our clients stay compliant. 5. Police Department Legal Issues: We also address the specific and sometimes complex legal needs that arise in connection with the operation of police departments, including policies, procedures, and oversight. These areas of law are highly specialized, and we take great pride in our ability to serve municipalities with the expertise needed to address their unique legal needs. Our longstanding relationships and experience make us a trusted partner for local governments in Prince George’s County.

For over four decades, Alexander & Cleaver, P.A., has been honored to serve various levels of government, including state, county, and municipal clients. Our firm has provided specialized legal counsel in a variety of areas: 1. State Government: We have served as special counsel, providing legal guidance on complex state matters. 2. County Government: Our firm has represented county governments in litigation, contract matters, and other legal challenges, ensuring that local government operations are legally sound and effective. 3. Municipalities: We have a longstanding history of serving as Town Counsel for municipalities, offering a wide range of services to meet the unique needs of local governments. At Alexander & Cleaver, P.A., we consider serving government clients a profound responsibility and honor. There is no higher calling in the legal profession for us than representing governmental entities and helping them navigate the complexities of the law. We take great pride in our work and our commitment to ensuring that government operations are handled with the highest level of legal expertise and integrity.

When you're buying or selling a business, there are several important steps to ensure smooth transaction. At Alexander & Cleaver, P.A., we recommend getting involved early, starting with the development of a term sheet which outlines the key aspects of the transaction, including the terms and what’s being exchanged. One of the key steps is due diligence, where we review the financials, contracts, and any important agreements related to the company. Whether you're the buyer or the seller, this step ensures you know exactly what you're exchanging. It's also essential to keep the business running smoothly during this process, and we help guide you through that along the way as well. The next step involves contract negotiations, where we prepare and negotiate the purchase agreements, which can include stock, asset, or interest purchase agreements, depending on the business type. These contracts typically go through many rounds of edits and changes, so it's critical to have experienced legal counsel. Finally, as the deal moves toward closing, it’s crucial to have an attorney with experience to handle the complexities of the process. After the transaction closes, there are often post-closing obligations that need to be handled correctly to ensure everything is in order. With years of experience handling business transactions of all sizes, Alexander & Cleaver, P.A., provides the expertise you need to navigate the process smoothly from start to finish.

It really depends on your specific needs, but in most cases, forming an LLC is the better option for new businesses. An LLC offers greater flexibility compared to a corporation. While both LLCs and corporations provide limited liability protection, corporations require more formalities, such as stockholder meetings and board of director meetings. An LLC allows you to structure and manage your business in a way that suits your needs without the additional corporate formalities, making it a more flexible choice for many entrepreneurs.

At Alexander & Cleaver, P.A., we handle all types of personal injury cases, including: Boat accidents, Auto accidents, Truck accidents, Motorcycle accidents, Slip and fall accidents, Wrongful death cases. If you've been injured due to someone else's negligence, we're here to help you navigate the legal process and pursue the compensation you deserve.

A business partnership agreement (often likened to a business "prenup") is a critical document for defining the terms of how the business will be run, managed, and dissolved in various scenarios. Here are the key elements that should be included in such an agreement: 1. Management: This section outlines how the business will be governed. Who will be in charge? Will there be a president, CEO, or a board of directors? How will decisions be made, and who has the authority to make them? This clarity helps avoid disputes and establishes the structure of leadership. 2. Exits: It's important to address various potential exit scenarios, such as bankruptcy, disability, death, retirement, or if one partner wants to force another out. This section provides a clear plan for what happens if a partner leaves the business for any reason. 3. Valuation: How will the value of the business be determined in the event of an exit? The agreement should define the method for valuing the business—whether through a cash basis, accrual, appraisal, or formula—to avoid disputes over price and ensure fair compensation. 4. Restrictive Covenants: To protect the business, this section can include clauses for non-compete agreements, confidentiality, and non-solicitation. These clauses help prevent a departing partner from taking clients, employees, or trade secrets with them. By addressing these four key categories in a business partnership agreement, you create a clear framework for how the business will operate and how to handle challenging situations, ensuring the protection and success of all parties involved. At Alexander & Cleaver, P.A., we help business owners draft these agreements to safeguard their interests and avoid future conflicts.

We represent clients throughout the probate process, which can be an emotional and challenging time for families. In addition to the emotional strain, the legal issues that arise during probate can be complex and time-consuming. At Alexander & Cleaver, P.A., we support families from start to finish, guiding them through every step of the estate process until all matters are resolved.

If you pass away without a will, your State's intestate laws will determine how your assets are distributed, which may not align with your wishes. These laws often fail to address the nuances of a person's intentions and can leave families with complicated and unintended outcomes. That’s why it’s crucial to have a will or trust in place, so you can control how your property is handled after your death, ensuring your wishes are followed and your loved ones are provided for.

In Maryland, corporations are required to hold an initial stockholder meeting as part of their formation process, and it is also advisable to have regular meetings with the board of directors and stockholders. For LLCs, while not legally required, it's still recommended to hold annual meetings and resolutions. This is important because if you fail to follow proper corporate formalities, you risk "piercing the corporate veil," which could leave you personally liable for the actions of the corporation or LLC. To protect your business and your personal assets, it's crucial to stay compliant with these formalities, and we'd be happy to assist you with this process.

Everyone needs an estate plan, regardless of age, marital status, or whether you have children. If you're over 18, planning to travel, have recently purchased a house, or moved to a new state, it's important to have an estate plan. If you're concerned about how your assets will be distributed after your death or want to protect your family's future, including potential in-laws, an estate plan is essential for peace of mind and proper planning.

There are no upfront costs when we represent you in a personal injury claim. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay attorney’s fees if we win your case. While you may be responsible for certain costs, you will never pay us directly. Our fees are covered by the recovery from the other driver's insurance company, either through a settlement or after a trial verdict. You won't have to pull out your wallet or write a check for our services.

For over 40 years, Alexander & Cleaver, P.A., has had the privilege of serving as local counsel to large corporations, multinational companies, and law firms from across the globe. When these entities need assistance with building projects, navigating regulatory compliance, or obtaining legal opinions, we are proud to provide the support and guidance necessary for their success. Our commitment is to protect our clients' interests from start to finish, ensuring their legal matters are handled efficiently and effectively. Choose Alexander & Cleaver, P.A. as your trusted local counsel – we are here to help and serve you.

States have various courts and jurisdictions depending on the type and value of a case, and it’s crucial for an experienced attorney to know where to file a claim and the relevant legal limits. At Alexander & Cleaver, P.A., we handle a broad spectrum of cases, including complex matters with statutory limits on recovery amounts. Partnering with an attorney who understands how to navigate these legal boundaries is essential to ensure that the right claims are filed and the appropriate compensation is pursued for our clients.

Churches are not just places for fellowship and worship—they are also organizations that face many of the same legal and business challenges as other entities. As churches grow, they often require legal support to navigate the complexities of their operations. A lawyer who understands both the legal and business aspects of churches is crucial. Some of the key areas where a church may need legal assistance include: 1. Contracts and Legal Proceedings: Churches often enter into contracts with vendors, contractors, and service providers. Having a lawyer review and draft these contracts ensures they are fair and legally sound. 2. Dealing with Local Authorities: Churches may need to work with local government entities for zoning, permits, and compliance with building codes. An experienced attorney can guide them through these processes. 3. Contractor Agreements: When dealing with construction and development, churches need contracts that protect their interests and ensure that contractors meet agreed-upon terms. A lawyer can help negotiate and review these agreements. 4. Financing: Many churches need financing for building projects, expansions, or other initiatives. An attorney can assist in negotiating loans, securing financing, and ensuring the terms are favorable and manageable. At Alexander & Cleaver, P.A., we understand the unique needs of churches and provide legal services to help them navigate these issues, ensuring their operations continue to run smoothly and effectively.

Penalties vary by state but typically include fines, license suspension, increased insurance rates, mandatory DUI education programs, and possibly jail time. Penalties increase for repeat offenses or if aggravating factors (like an accident) are involved. The attorneys at Alexander & Cleaver, P.A., will work with you to reduce the penalties in your case.

Our firm specializes in comprehensive conference planning and logistics at the local, state, and national levels. We assist with everything from pitching your CEO for keynote opportunities to organizing educational panels. Whether you're planning a cocktail reception with key decision-makers or determining which industry leaders your team should connect with, we’re here to ensure your conference experience is strategic and impactful. From major events like the National Conference of State Legislators and the Council of State Governments in all regions, to mid-Atlantic conferences like MACRUC, the Maryland Municipal League, and the Maryland Association of Counties, we help our clients achieve results on any scale.

In an auto accident case, there are typically three types of insurance that come into play: 1. The other driver's insurance – This is the primary insurance, responsible for covering damages and making you whole again. 2. Your car insurance – This can provide personal injury protection (PIP) or medical payments (MedPay), depending on your state, as well as uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage if the at-fault driver is uninsured or doesn’t have enough coverage. 3. Your medical insurance – In some cases, your health insurance may be used to cover medical expenses related to the accident. It's crucial to consult an attorney to ensure you fully understand and maximize all the available benefits in your case.

Under the law, there are strict time limits, known as statutes of limitations, that must be followed when pursuing a claim. These time limits can range from as short as 180 days to as long as three years, depending on the case. An experienced attorney understands the specifics of each type of case and knows the exact deadlines for taking action. Failing to meet these deadlines could result in the loss of the claim, so it's crucial to work with a lawyer who is well-versed in these time-sensitive matters.

Boating claims are unique and require specific expertise. In Maryland and the DC area, where we enjoy the Chesapeake Bay and numerous rivers, boating accidents are unfortunately common. One common misconception is that these cases are standard, but they are far from it. Boating accidents are governed by both federal maritime (admiralty) law and state law, and there are often complex jurisdictional issues to navigate. It's crucial to work with an experienced law firm and attorney who understand these complexities. Our firm has handled many boating accident cases, and we know the nuances involved. We can quickly get to the heart of the matter, explain everything to you, and guide you on the right course of action for your case.

After a car accident, you are under no obligation to give a statement to anyone, except your own insurance company. However, it is crucial that you cooperate with your own insurer. We advise you to contact an attorney, like our firm, immediately. We can guide you through the process and protect your interests. Any statement you give to another insurance company could be used against you, and they might misrepresent or misstate facts, which could harm your case later on. The answer is simple: no, you are not required to give a statement to others.

Death cases, also known as wrongful death claims, are different from typical personal injury cases. In a regular injury case, only the injured person can recover damages. In a death case, however, two groups can recover: 1. The deceased's estate: This includes a "survivor claim," which covers the deceased's conscious pain and suffering (if any), medical expenses, and funeral costs. 2. The loved ones: This includes compensation for financial support the deceased provided, as well as emotional losses such as the loss of love, affection, advice, and grief. Given the complexity of wrongful death claims and the differences in how they're handled by different jurisdictions, it's important to consult with an attorney who specializes in these matters.

When clients come to Alexander & Cleaver, P.A., for estate planning, they often start with the latest will and testament. However, we recommend several other important documents to ensure comprehensive protection. One is a power of attorney, which designates someone to manage your financial and important matters if you're incapacitated. Another key document is a healthcare power of attorney, which appoints someone to make medical decisions on your behalf when you're unable to do so. Together, these documents—last will and testament, power of attorney, and healthcare power of attorney—form a complete estate plan that provides peace of mind.

This depends on the state. In some states, a DUI may stay on your driving record for several years (e.g., 5–10 years), while others may have permanent records. Expungement is possible in some cases. Contact is today to speak to an experienced attorney.

For over 40 years, Alexander & Cleaver, P.A. has been providing exceptional legal representation to individuals and attorneys who refer serious accident, truck accident, and wrongful death cases to us. Our success starts with thorough investigations, ensuring we get out early to secure witnesses, facts, and evidence. Over the years, we've recovered millions of dollars for thousands of clients, thanks to the hard work, dedication, and ethical standards of our attorneys. Contact us today and let us be Your Lawyers for Life.

When clients choose an attorney, they’re looking for a proven track record of success. For nearly 40 years, Alexander & Cleaver, P.A., has represented thousands of clients in personal injury, major litigation, civil and criminal matters, and more. Our results speak for themselves, and now we’re proud to represent not only our clients but their children and grandchildren. People call us their "lawyers for life" because of our unwavering commitment to achieving successful outcomes. At Alexander & Cleaver, P.A., our expertise and dedication to winning make us the trusted choice for every client.

For nearly 40 years, Alexander & Cleaver, P.A., has built a strong reputation as local counsel in a wide range of cases. We’ve had the privilege of working with some of the largest law firms on administrative law matters, due diligence reviews, project development, and securing permits at the federal, state, and county levels for major projects. Additionally, we’ve provided local legal opinions to out-of-state law firms. Serving Maryland, DC, and Virginia, we are proud of our proven results and would be honored to assist other attorneys with referrals for any type of case.

"Lawyers for Life" means that we aim to build long-lasting relationships with our clients, providing trusted legal guidance throughout their lives. For nearly 40 years, Alexander & Cleaver, P.A. represented thousands of clients across various cases and states. Now, we're proud to serve the children and grandchildren of those same clients. Our commitment to helping families for generations is why we say, "We want to be your lawyers for life." Once you start with us, you’ll continue to have a dedicated legal team for all of life’s challenges.