FAQs
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Where is Carr Saglimben LLP located and what areas do you serve?
Carr Saglimben LLP is located at 134 N. Union Street, Olean, NY 14760. We serve clients throughout Western New York and Northern Pennsylvania, including Cattaraugus, Allegany, Chautauqua, McKean, Warren, and Potter counties. Our specific service areas include Olean, Wellsville, Ellicottville, and Chautauqua in NY, as well as Bradford, Warren, and Coudersport in PA.
What practice areas does Carr Saglimben LLP handle?
We handle four main practice areas: Criminal Defense (including DUI/DWI, drug possession, and assault), Family Law (custody, visitation, adoption, and abuse/neglect cases), Divorce (child custody, support, alimony, property division, and mediation), and Bankruptcy (Chapter 7 and Chapter 13).
Who are the attorneys at Carr Saglimben LLP?
Our firm has two experienced attorneys. Jay David Carr specializes in criminal defense and bankruptcy with over 15 years of experience, is a former assistant district attorney and past president of the Cattaraugus County Bar Association. Mike Saglimben has practiced law since 1988 and specializes in divorce and family law, having served as First Assistant District Attorney in Clearfield County from 1990-1997.
Do you offer free consultations?
Yes, we offer free initial consultations to all prospective clients in both New York and Pennsylvania. This allows you to discuss your case, understand your legal options, and determine the best course of action without any upfront cost. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
What are your office hours?
We are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You can reach us by phone at (716) 372-4450 or through our online contact form.
Are your attorneys licensed in both New York and Pennsylvania?
Yes, both attorneys are licensed in New York and Pennsylvania. Jay Carr is admitted to practice before U.S. District Courts for the Western District of NY and Middle District of PA, plus the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for Western District of NY. Mike Saglimben is admitted to practice before the U.S. District Court for Western District of PA. Please note that our bankruptcy services are only available to New York clients.
Have more questions?
Visit our blog for more helpful legal articles, or contact Carr Saglimben LLP for a free consultation. Learn more about our firm and the communities we serve throughout New York and Pennsylvania.
How much does a criminal lawyer cost in New York?
Criminal lawyer costs in New York vary based on case complexity and attorney experience. Hourly rates typically range from $150 to $500+ per hour. Flat fees for DUI/DWI or misdemeanor cases can range from a few thousand to several thousand dollars. Retainer fees often range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more. We offer free initial consultations to discuss your case and fee arrangements.
What should I do if I’m accused of a crime?
If accused of a crime, you should remain silent and invoke your Miranda rights. Don’t answer questions without your lawyer present and don’t resist arrest even if you believe you’re innocent. Hire a criminal defense attorney immediately—having legal representation early helps prepare your defense and avoid mistakes during the investigation. Read our complete guide on what every criminal defendant should know.
What are the potential consequences of a criminal conviction in New York?
Criminal conviction consequences can include fines, probation, community service, and incarceration. Long-term implications may affect your employment opportunities, professional licensing, housing options, and firearm ownership rights. Non-U.S. citizens may face immigration consequences including removal proceedings and deportation. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys serving Olean and surrounding areas can help protect your rights.
What is Leandra’s Law in New York?
Leandra’s Law imposes stiffer penalties for those convicted of DWI with a child age 15 or younger in the vehicle. While a first DWI would normally be a misdemeanor charge, Leandra’s Law automatically upgrades it to a felony when a child is present in the vehicle. This results in more severe consequences including longer jail sentences and higher fines. Contact our DWI attorneys immediately if you’re facing these charges.
What should I do if I’m arrested for a DUI/DWI?
Seek qualified legal advice from a DWI attorney as soon as possible. You can lose your license even on a first DWI charge and even if you’re not convicted. DWI charges can result in large fines, high insurance premiums, mandatory ignition interlock devices, and possible jail time. Our DUI/DWI defense lawyers serve clients in Bradford, PA, Warren, PA, Chautauqua, NY, Olean, NY, and Wellsville, NY.
What types of DWI charges can Carr Saglimben LLP help with?
We handle various DWI matters including: Misdemeanor DWI (common for first offense or marginal BAC levels), Aggravated DWI (BAC greater than 0.18% in New York), Felony DWI (repeat offenses, serious accidents, or child passengers involved), DWAI (driving while ability impaired by drugs), and vehicular homicide involving DUI accidents. Our experienced attorneys work to reduce consequences through negotiation or fight charges aggressively at trial.
What is BAC?
BAC stands for blood alcohol content. It measures how much alcohol is present in your body based on the weight of alcohol in a certain amount of blood. BAC is used as the primary measure to determine if someone is driving drunk and is a key factor in DWI/DUI cases. If you’ve been charged with a DWI, contact our criminal defense team for a free consultation.
Have more questions?
Visit our blog for more helpful legal articles, or contact Carr Saglimben LLP for a free consultation. Learn more about our firm and the communities we serve throughout New York and Pennsylvania.
What is the difference between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy?
Chapter 7 bankruptcy allows you to eliminate most unsecured debt (credit cards, medical bills, car payments), though non-exempt property may be taken by a trustee. Most people can protect their home and car. Chapter 13 bankruptcy involves making manageable payments to a trustee over a 3-5 year period and allows you to catch up on mortgage arrearages. Our bankruptcy attorneys only serve clients in New York, including Olean, Wellsville, Ellicottville, and Chautauqua.
Does bankruptcy affect my credit score?
Yes, bankruptcy will cause your credit score to drop initially. However, after filing, you can practice good personal finance habits to rebuild your credit over time. Depending on the type of bankruptcy filed, it will be removed from your credit report in 7-10 years. Read our article on why bankruptcy is stressful and how we can help you through it.
What happens when I file for bankruptcy?
When you file bankruptcy, an automatic stay immediately goes into effect, preventing creditors from taking action against you and protecting your property from repossession. Most debts including medical bills, personal loans, and credit cards can be discharged. Our bankruptcy attorneys handle all paperwork, navigate the complex process, and ensure proper completion of your case. Contact us to discuss your options.
What is the process for filing for bankruptcy?
You can either hire an attorney to handle the process for you or do it yourself. If you choose to file yourself, you’ll need to get the free bankruptcy forms from the U.S. Courts website and follow their guidelines. However, bankruptcy law is complex, and an experienced attorney can provide peace of mind and ensure proper completion. Learn more about how bankruptcy is stressful and why professional help matters.
How can a bankruptcy attorney help my financial situation?
A bankruptcy attorney assesses your current situation and determines which form of bankruptcy you should file. Filing triggers an automatic stay that prevents creditors from taking action against you, protecting your property from repossession. We help reorganize your debts and catch up on non-dischargeable payments like child support and alimony. Schedule a free consultation with our team in Olean, NY to discuss your financial future.
Have more questions?
Visit our blog for more helpful legal articles, or contact Carr Saglimben LLP for a free consultation. Learn more about our firm and the communities we serve throughout New York and Pennsylvania.
Why should I hire a divorce lawyer?
A divorce lawyer expedites the complex paperwork process and helps you understand legal terminology. They serve as a mediator between you and your spouse, which is especially helpful when emotions run high. Most importantly, since your spouse will likely have legal representation, you need someone to protect your interests. Our experienced divorce attorneys serve clients throughout Olean, Wellsville, Bradford, and surrounding areas.
What are the different types of alimony?
There are four main types of alimony: Rehabilitative Alimony supports a spouse while they become employable. Reimbursement Alimony repays a spouse who financially supported the other through their education. Lump Sum Alimony is a one-time payment instead of dividing certain assets. Permanent Alimony provides ongoing support for disabled spouses or those who raised children. Read our detailed guide on divorce and alimony to learn more.
What divorce services does Carr Saglimben LLP provide?
We provide comprehensive divorce representation including child custody determinations, child support and spousal support/alimony negotiations, property division, post-divorce modifications, uncontested divorces, mediation services, and litigation when settlement isn’t possible. Attorney Mike Saglimben has over 20 years of experience helping families through divorce proceedings. See what our clients say about us.
Can I modify a divorce decree after it’s finalized?
Yes, post-divorce modifications are possible when circumstances change. Our divorce attorneys can help you seek modifications to child custody, child support, or alimony arrangements. We know the legal standards and how to work through the system to achieve your goals. Contact us to discuss your situation with our family law team.
Do you handle uncontested divorces?
Yes, if you and your spouse already know how your divorce will proceed but need a lawyer to handle the details, we can help. We draft all divorce documents for you and submit them to court, making the process smoother and ensuring everything is handled correctly. Our divorce lawyers serve Chautauqua, NY, Warren, PA, Coudersport, PA, and beyond.
Have more questions?
Visit our blog for more helpful legal articles, or contact Carr Saglimben LLP for a free consultation. Learn more about our firm and the communities we serve throughout New York and Pennsylvania.
What is joint custody?
Joint custody is a custody arrangement where custody rights are awarded to both parents, allowing both to have a meaningful role in their child’s upbringing. The court’s primary consideration in any custody case is determining what arrangement is in the best interest of the child. Our family law attorneys can help you understand your options and fight for your parental rights.
How is child support determined in New York?
Several factors determine child support amounts including: the number of children, gross annual income of both parents, amount of taxes withheld, the specific needs of your child, and the presence of spousal support. Read our detailed article on what a child support lawyer does or contact us to discuss your case.
When should I hire a child visitation lawyer?
You should hire a child custody attorney if: your ex has already hired an attorney, you and your ex live in different jurisdictions (different states or countries have different custody laws), you believe your child may be in danger, or your ex is preventing you from seeing or communicating with your child. Our family law team serves clients in Ellicottville, NY, Coudersport, PA, and throughout the region.
What does a child support lawyer do?
A child support lawyer assists with everything related to child support including calculating payment amounts and establishing a support agreement. They break down the complex filing process, help gather necessary documentation (employment info, tax returns, paystubs), assist in negotiations, and protect your rights to ensure adequate support for your child. They also help enforce support orders when payments aren’t being made. Contact our attorneys for help.
Does Carr Saglimben LLP handle adoption cases?
Yes, our family law attorneys handle adoption cases including step-child adoptions, relative adoptions, agency adoptions, and stranger adoptions. The adoption process is complex, and we recommend consulting with an attorney as early as possible. Contact us to discuss your adoption goals with our experienced team.
How do I handle co-parenting challenges?
Co-parenting requires strong communication about your child’s medical, emotional, and academic needs. Both households should maintain consistent rules and encourage healthy habits. If you’re experiencing financial strain affecting child support, contact your lawyer to discuss modification options. Read our full guide on co-parenting tips and contact our family law team if you need legal assistance.
Can grandparents get custody or visitation rights?
Yes, our child custody attorneys represent not only parents but also grandparents and other relatives seeking custody or visitation rights. We understand that every family law case is unique, and we work to achieve the best possible outcome for the children involved. See what past clients say about our services or schedule a free consultation today.
Have more questions?
Visit our blog for more helpful legal articles, or contact Carr Saglimben LLP for a free consultation. Learn more about our firm and the communities we serve throughout New York and Pennsylvania.