Law Office of Michael J. Hengst

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Law Office of Michael J. Hengst

We are a law firm that helps people with Social Security Disability claims.

07/28/2025

Amusement parks are meant to be a place of fun and excitement, but accidents can happen, sometimes leading to serious injuries. If you or a loved one has been injured at an amusement park, understanding who may be responsible is important.

Liability depends on several factors, including:

✅ Premises Liability - Amusement parks have a duty to maintain safe conditions. If an injury occurs due to hazards such as broken rides or slippery walkways, the park may be held responsible.

✅ Employee Negligence - If an accident results from an employee’s improper operation of a ride or failure to follow safety protocols, both the employee and the park may be liable.

✅ Product Liability - If a ride malfunctions due to a design or manufacturing defect, the manufacturer may be held accountable.

Wherever the incident occurs, if you or a loved one has been injured, understanding your legal rights is crucial. Give us a call anytime; we’re here to help.

07/15/2025

A living will ensures that your health care preferences are honored, even if you are unable to communicate them yourself. It provides clear guidance on medical treatments like life support, resuscitation, and other critical interventions, removing uncertainty and easing the burden on your loved ones during difficult times.

If you do not have a living will or need to update yours, there’s no time like the present to do so. And, of course, our team is here to guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.

Give us a call — we would be happy to assist you.

07/08/2025

If you are traveling with a minor, it is essential to have the proper legal documentation to avoid delays or legal complications. With that said, here are the essential documents you may need:

✅ Child Travel Consent Form - A notarized document confirming permission from the non-traveling parent(s) or legal guardians. It should include travel dates, destinations, and contact information for legal guardians.

✅ Proof of Sole Custody - If you have sole legal custody, carry a certified court order. This is often required for passport applications and to verify parental rights. Alternative acceptable documents may include the minor’s certified birth certificate or adoption decree listing only one parent, a death certificate of the non-appearing parent, judicial declarations of incompetence, or appropriate institutional guardianship documents.

✅ Passport Requirements - All minors traveling internationally by air must have their own passport. When applying, sole custodial parents or legal guardians must provide supporting custody documentation. If traveling by land or sea to certain international destinations such as Canada, Mexico, or parts of the Caribbean, minors under 16 may not require passports, and a certified birth certificate could be sufficient.

Failure to carry these documents can lead to delays, denied entry, or legal complications. If you have questions about custody rights and travel documentation, our legal team is here to help! Give us a call anytime.

07/02/2025

From marriage and parenthood to financial shifts and relocations, major life events can impact your estate planning needs. Keeping your documents up to date ensures your wishes are honored and your loved ones are protected.

Swipe for some key moments that may require an estate plan update ↩️

A well-maintained estate plan provides peace of mind and protects your legacy. If you need guidance on reviewing or updating your documents, we are here to help. Give us a call today!

06/26/2025

Medicaid Asset Protection Trusts (MAPTs) can be a valuable tool for preserving assets while ensuring Medicaid eligibility for long-term care — but they are not the right fit for everyone.

Swipe through to learn more about the benefits of a MAPT and other planning strategies ↩️ If you have questions about protecting your assets and planning for long-term care, give us a call. We are happy to help.

06/18/2025

Summer isn’t the only thing that brings the heat — estate planning can, too. When emotions run high, family tensions over wills and inheritances can quickly spiral. Swipe through for tips on how to avoid tensions.

A well-prepared plan protects more than just assets; it safeguards family harmony. Contact our team today to start planning with peace of mind.

06/17/2025

Boating and summer fun often go hand in hand, but mixing alcohol with operating a boat can have serious consequences. Boating Under the Influence (BUI) is not only dangerous — it’s illegal. Just like with driving, alcohol impairs judgment, reaction time, and coordination, increasing the risk of accidents on the water.

Swipe for ways to navigate the waters safely ↩️

Staying sober behind the wheel — whether on land or water — protects lives. If you or someone you know is facing BUI charges, our firm is here to help navigate the legal process. Stay safe and boat responsibly!

06/12/2025

Swimming pools provide a refreshing escape during the warmer months, but they also come with legal responsibilities. Whether you are a pool owner or a guest, it is important to be aware of potential risks and liability concerns.

🔵 Slip and Fall Hazards: Wet surfaces, loose tiles, and uneven walkways can lead to serious accidents. Proper maintenance and slip-resistant materials can help prevent injuries.
🔵 Legal Responsibilities: Public pool owners may have a duty to provide supervision and safety warnings, while homeowners should also take reasonable precautions to protect guests.
🔵 Fencing and Barriers: Many states require pool owners to install fencing or covers to prevent unauthorized access, especially to protect children.

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury due to unsafe pool conditions, our firm is here to help. Give us a call anytime.

06/05/2025

Less than 10% of adults have named a legal guardian for their minor children — are you one of them? Swipe through to see the myths that can get in the way of proper guardian planning for children — and the facts that can help you appropriately protect your family and your peace of mind.

If you haven’t named a guardian in your estate plan, our firm is here to help. Contact us today to get started.

06/03/2025

Relocating to a new state is an exciting milestone, but it can also bring important legal considerations — especially when it comes to your estate plan.

Each state has unique estate planning laws, including rules on wills, trusts, executors, and powers of attorney. What was legally valid in your previous state may not fully align with the laws in your new home. Updating your estate plan ensures your wishes are honored and helps your loved ones avoid unnecessary legal complications down the road.

From marital property laws to executor restrictions, small differences can have a big impact. Give us a call today to review your estate plan and make sure your legacy is protected.

06/02/2025

Did you know that 1 in 10 older adults experience some form of abuse each year? Many cases go unreported, but recognizing the signs is the first step to protecting those most vulnerable.
Elder abuse is a heartbreaking reality, but awareness can make an enormous difference for our loved ones. That’s why, this month, we’re spotlighting key indicators of elder abuse.

Swipe through to learn about the signs to watch for ↩️

If you, or someone you love, is in need of legal guidance, please give our office a call. We are here to help.

05/29/2025

Summer brings road trips, vacations, and longer days — and also a rise in car accidents. While winter weather poses its own risks, statistics show that summer is the most dangerous season for drivers. Swipe through for reasons why.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a summer accident, our team is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your legal options.

Address

Houston, TX

Opening Hours

Monday

8:30am - 5pm

Telephone

+18326260400

Website

http://www.socialsecuritylawyerhouston.com/

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