Holland & Usry July 2017

A Steady, Experienced Hand MY 4 DECADES IN LAW

ince I started practicing law in 1975, I’ve gained experience in many different aspects of our justice system. I used to describe

raising children is the single most honorable endeavor a person can do. Obviously, we all need to make a little money here and there, but the importance of that pales in comparison to the duties of being a parent. If I can play a part in making sure a child ends up in the best place for them to flourish, it makes me feel proud of my career. I have to admit, before I went through a divorce myself, the process of family law was largely abstract for me. Sure, I understood the legal complexities and difficulties that arise from divorce, but it was hard for me to relate to just how emotional some divorce proceedings are. After having the experience myself, though, it’s much easier for me to empathize with my clients. There’s an old saying that the three hardest things to deal with in life are death, divorce, and indictment. I’ll tell you, I find it pretty hard to argue with. Another factor that has increased my empathy over the past 15 years is the spiritual development I’ve undergone. I am an active member of the Episcopal Church of the Advent, and as I’ve matured, so too has my spirituality. It’s one of my primary passions outside of the office, along with spending any time I can with my grandchildren. I also enjoy reading, especially biographies. I’m patiently awaiting the next volume of Robert Caro’s unbelievable work on Lyndon Johnson. All the while, I try to devote a little time to exercising, whether that be walking, jogging, or swimming. I feel lucky to have such wonderful colleagues and clients here at the firm. They make coming to work a joy, and I am grateful that I still enjoy my career. I like to think that my years of experience have provided me a steady hand when it comes to legal matters, and I’m happy to lend it whenever I can.

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my workload as one-third criminal defense, one-third personal injury, and one-third family law. In my decades of work as an attorney, I’ve tried thousands of cases, and my passion for the job hasn’t diminished one bit. Helping members of our community during difficult times never ceases to be rewarding. These days, I spend most of my time focusing on family law. We have a great team here with Rob Usry and John Holland, and they have enabled me to have a more structured schedule. As a father to five children, the importance of making sure children end up in the best possible situation is not lost on me. In my eyes,

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There’s an old saying that the three hardest things to deal with in life are death, divorce, and indictment. I’ll tell you, I find it pretty hard to argue with.

–Bob Holland 864.582.0416

Hustling for the Family HOW TO BALANCE A SIDE HUSTLE AND FAMILY LIFE

Take breaks. There is no person on earth who can work 18-plus-hour days every day of the week. Everybody needs a little R & R. Regular breaks will allow you to spend quality time with your spouse and children, reduce the risk of burning out, and enable you to enjoy your life outside of the daily grind. Honestly, though, breaks aren’t enough. If you’re really making time for everything, you’re going to be working some long days, and you’ll need the energy to match. Make sure you are eating healthy and making time for regular exercise. This way you won’t pass out the next time you try to watch “Trolls” with the kiddos. Make time. It’s likely time already feels like a scarce resource, and with an added side hustle, you’ll find it’s a true luxury. Make a list of your usual daily activities and cut down on those that don’t mesh with your goals. TV, social media, and extra day-job responsibilities probably need to fall by the wayside if you’re going to fit everything you want to accomplish into each day. Check out the book “Stop Wasting Your Life And Start Doing What Matters Most” by Jeffrey L. Krug for some tips on doing just that.

A side hustle — whether it’s taking on side work in your construction job, doing extra volunteer work for church or the community, or just trying to keep up with a hyperactive family’s various activities — can be a substantial boon to your family’s finances. But it can also cause tension and change family dynamics. Luckily, it is possible to balance a side hustle, keep your sanity, and maintain healthy relationships with your spouse and kids. Here are some tips on how to make a little extra cash without overly disrupting your family life. Organize your life . Regardless of how meticulously you’ve organized your life, after a few weeks of extra work, your world is sure to seem a little more complex. One excellent way to synchronize with your family — and ensure you don’t miss anything important — is to have every family member streamline their busy schedules into one of many family calendar-sharing applications, whether it’s Google Calendar, Hub Family Organizer, or Cozi. This way, you’ll be able to quickly and visually determine the best times to take breaks, and easily make sure your work schedule doesn’t overlap with picking up your kids from school or making it to their ballgames..

Client Testimonials SEE WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT US

“I was faced with a DUI, less than 0.10 percent blood-alcohol content, first-offense charge and could not be more pleased that I made the decision to choose Rob Usry of Holland and Usry to represent me. Most importantly, my charge was ultimately dismissed, but Rob was extremely professional and knowledgeable, and he answered any and ALL of my questions or concerns throughout. Rob kept me in the loop the entire time and handled everything for me, including getting me my driver’s license back far quicker than I expected early in the process. He kept me as much at ease as possible through the whole process. I would highly recommend anyone facing a similar charge to call Rob and ask for his help.”

“You certainly saved me from a company with no compassion for its employees. I am very thankful for your guidance and for the results of our long-drawn-out case, which was not any fault of yours. It’s good to know that if ever I should need legal guidance again, I certainly know who to go see — you! Thank you for all you’ve done to help me.”

– Lori S., Boiling Springs workers’ comp client

– Anonymous, DUI Client

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An Arrest Is Not a Conviction DUI AND DUAC DEFENSE

An arrest for driving under the influence (DUI) or driving with an unlawful alcohol concentration (DUAC) can have a significant impact on your life even before you have the chance to defend yourself in court. If you’re arrested for either crime, your license may be suspended immediately. Without the ability to drive, daily activities like getting to work or picking up children can become extremely difficult. Because of the severity of action the state takes in these cases, too many people assume they cannot win, even if they are not guilty of wrongdoing. DUI and DUAC may be separate charges — DUAC requires a lower burden of proof than DUI — but they can both carry the same penalties. Neither charge can be expunged from your record, and the fines and/or jail time that can result are identical. In addition to these outcomes, convictions can lead to sky-high insurance premiums from SR-22 insurance and mandatory safety programs, which can run you over $500. Additionally, you may be mandated to install ignition interlock, a system which forces you to take a breathalyzer test before your car starts. Not only is this service monitored by the probation department, you also have to pay for it and ensure it is properly maintained. All of these conditions can result from a first offense, and they only escalate from there.

The most crucial aspect of protecting your rights after a DUI or DUAC arrest is to act quickly. These types of cases are complicated, and you can be convicted without a jury trial. Just because you blew .08 or higher does not mean you are automatically guilty. Sit down with the experienced attorneys at Holland & Usry to explore your options. A DUI or DUAC arrest can seem bleak, but don’t give up hope without consulting an attorney.

Good News

SUMMERTIME FROZEN YOGURT PIE

1 Corinthians 10:13 from the message

No test or temptation that comes your way is beyond the course of what others have had to face. All you need to remember is that God will never let you down; he’ll never let you be pushed past your limit; he’ll always be there to help you come through it.

Looking for a summer dessert you don’t have to feel guilty about indulging in? Try this easy, low-fat frozen treat!

Ingredients

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1 premade graham cracker pie crust

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1 cup frozen or fresh mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries) 3 (6-ounce) containers regular yogurt (berry flavors work best)

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1 (8-ounce) container Cool Whip

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Directions

1. Combine Cool Whip, mixed berries, and yogurt in a bowl. Mix with a spatula until well-blended. 2. Pour yogurt mixture into pie crust. 3. Cover pie with foil or plastic lid. 4. Store in freezer for at least 3 hours, or until frozen through. 5. Serve frozen or slightly thawed.

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* This newsletter is intended to educate the public about personal injury, workers’ compensation, criminal defense, and family law issues. You can copy and distribute it as long as you copy the entire newsletter. But the newsletter is not intended to be legal advice; you should ask a lawyer about your specific case. Every case is different, and all case outcomes depend on unique facts and laws.

101 W. St. John St., Suite 206 Spartanburg, SC 29306

INSIDE this issue

1

A Steady, Experienced Hand

2

Hustling for the Family Client Testimonials

3

Don’t Give Up on DUI Cases Summertime Frozen Yogurt Pie

4

A Doggone Good Time

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A Doggone Good Time

INSIDE NATHAN’S NATIONAL HOT DOG EATING CONTEST

This Fourth of July, no hot dog is safe. In fact, according to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, Americans will consume as many as 155 million frankfurters on the holiday alone! But hey, you’re eating one, two, maybe three hot dogs tops, right? That’s small-time, kid. If you’re looking to tangle with the big dogs, take a trip to Coney Island and check out the world-famous Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest. Each year, on the anniversary of America’s fateful inception, the world’s greatest eaters warm up their chompers on the biggest stage in competitive consumption. Then, in front of a cheering horde of Major League Eating fans, they feast. But as I’m sure you’re aware, this ain’t your dad’s barbecue. The clock runs for 10 minutes, and whoever devours the greatest number of doggies — buns and all — is crowned top dog. These

competitors chow down at a pace unfathomable to us mere mortals. Chew on this for a second: Last year’s champion, Joey Chestnut, dispatched a whopping 70 dogs — that’s seven a minute, folks, more than one every 10 seconds. To some, the competition is a marvelous munching media blowout. To others, it’s a truly grotesque display of American avarice. But regardless of which side of the bun you land on, you have to agree: Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest is a marvel of contemporary marketing. This Independence Day, whether you’re in the crowd at Coney Island, watching in awe as 20 adults inhale absurd quantities of film-wrapped mystery meats, or at the park, quizzically guessing at the chemical makeup of a half-eaten frankfurter on a picnic table, take a moment to thank the humble hot dog. It may be the most American meal you eat all year.

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