Dear Readers,

We hope that all is well with you and your families as we move into the chillier months and get closer to the holidays. It’s a very busy time for us here at DDS&J and our attorneys are tackling their cases with fierce determination.

The world of law is ever-changing and it’s extremely difficult to try to keep up with! For that reason, we’ve collected some of the most important updates to help you to stay in the loop and know how these changes will affect you!

Will 21 be the New Age for Purchasing Vape/Tobacco Products?

• If you’re a parent, you’ve probably noticed the rising trend of vaping. In September, legislation was presented to the Pennsylvania Senate that would raise the legal tobacco-buying age to 21. After being approved with a 43-6 majority, the bill is now moving to the House of Representatives. This has sparked a debate as to whether or not 18-year-olds, as legal adults, are old enough/mature enough to make this decision on their own. Governor Tom Wolfe is expected to sign the bill if it is presented to him.

Drug Possession No Longer Means License Suspension

• Mandatory license suspensions for drug crimes have been eliminated. In Pennsylvania, non-driving related drug charges and other crimes, such as underage drinking, will no longer result in the automatic suspension of the accused’s driver’s license. This means that should someone (not driving under the influence) be charged with possession or possession with intent to distribute, their license will remain intact.

Alimony Ends if a New Partner Moves In

• Though not a new law, this is a confusing one that we thought it was important to share. If you are pending trial in an alimony case and are hoping to receive funds from your ex-partner, you must sustain your current living situation. This means that you may not move in with a new partner under any circumstances. Should you move in with your new partner, even if you were to immediately move back out, your case will cease to exist.

As always, we at DeRiso Law Group are here to help you win your case. If you have any questions about the above laws or are looking for legal representation, please contact us so that we may set up a consultation with you.

Wishing you all the best,

The Attorneys at DeRiso Law Group