HK Today - February 2025
Hoover ? Krepelka, LLP
Family Law Attorneys and Certified Family Law Specialists - Since 1960. Let our experience be your advantage.
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This month, we are reflecting on key family law topics, sharing insights, and highlighting resources to support individuals navigating transitions. Beyond our work, we are celebrating the power of meaningful moments and community as we connect with local organizations, support meaningful initiatives, and reinforce our commitment to fostering relationships that create lasting impact. Here's our February in review:
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IMPORTANT DATES/RECOGNITIONS
As we welcome the Year of the Snake, we reflect on the values of transformation, wisdom, and renewal—qualities that resonate deeply with the work we do as a family law firm.
The Snake symbolizes patience and resilience, reminding us that even in times of change, growth is always possible. Whether you're navigating a new chapter in life or working toward harmony in your family, know that we’re here to support you every step of the way.
From all of us at Hoover Krepelka, LLP, we wish you and your loved ones a year filled with joy, prosperity, and harmony. Here’s to a year of growth and brighter tomorrows. Happy Lunar New Year!
#LunarNewYear #YearOfTheSnake
We recognize and celebrate the profound contributions of past leaders, trailblazers, and changemakers who shape history, law, and society. Black history serves as the utmost, powerful reminder of resilience, progress, and the ongoing pursuit of justice—values that align with our commitment to advocacy and equity in the legal field.
At Hoover Krepelka, LLP, we stand by and honor the legacy of those who pave the way and reaffirm our dedication to fostering diversity, inclusion, and meaningful change. This month and beyond, we encourage reflection, education, and action in support of Black voices and communities.
#BlackHistoryMonth #DiversityInLaw #HonoringLegacies
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TESTIMONIALS
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LEGAL RESOURCES
Click below to read our latest articles, including the topics of?"In-Person vs. Remote Appearances Under New 2025 Rules in Santa Clara County,"?"Can Long-Term Disability Agreements be Garnished for Support?"?and?"What Happens to Spousal Support Obligations if the Paying Spouse Becomes Disabled?"
The 2025 family court rule updates in Santa Clara County introduce remote appearance options for hearings, offering parties the convenience of attending via Zoom under specific conditions. In-person attendance remains the default, requiring a formal request for remote appearances. Each option has distinct advantages: in-person hearings allow for direct interaction and better non-verbal communication, while remote appearances provide convenience and safety, particularly in sensitive cases like domestic violence. However, challenges such as travel costs for in-person hearings and potential technical issues for remote appearances highlight the need for experienced family law attorneys who can navigate these complexities effectively, ensuring optimal case outcomes.
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Becoming disabled can significantly impact financial stability, especially when court-ordered spousal support obligations remain in place. While some disability benefits are protected from garnishment, Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) can be partially garnished for spousal support, potentially leaving recipients struggling to cover their own expenses. Legal options exist to challenge or modify support orders, but they require timely action and court approval. Bankruptcy does not eliminate spousal support obligations, making a formal modification request the best course of action. Understanding these laws and taking proactive steps can help protect essential income from overwhelming financial strain.
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In California, spousal support obligations may be modified if the paying spouse becomes disabled and experiences a significant financial change. While disability alone does not automatically end support payments, courts consider factors such as income reduction, medical expenses, and financial need when determining whether to adjust or terminate the obligation. The easiest way to modify support is through an agreement with the ex-spouse, which must be approved by a judge. If an agreement cannot be reached, the payor must formally request a modification by filing the necessary court forms and providing financial documentation. Until a court order is modified, the payor remains legally obligated to make payments. Legal assistance can help ensure a smooth modification process and protect the payor’s financial interests.
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EVENTS
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San Jose Chamber of Commerce's 'Leaders & Legacy' Dinner
Community Outreach Specialist Vivian Tran attended the San Jose Chamber of Commerce’s Leaders &?Legacy?Annual Membership Dinner, engaging with local leaders and organizations to strengthen community connections. A panel discussion, moderated by San José State University President Cynthia Teniente-Matson, featured Berni Gutmann of Bay FC, Jared Shawlee of the San Jose Earthquakes Soccer, Jonathan Becher of the San Jose Sharks, and Stephanie Dittmer Rogers of the San Francisco 49ers. The discussion focused on the role of sports in the city's growth, leadership, and community engagement. Mayor Matt Mahan addressed attendees, reflecting on the Chamber’s achievements presenting an award of appreciation for Past Board Chair Nicholas E. Adams, and outlining a vision for the future. With major sporting events like Super Bowl LX, the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, and the FIFA World Cup approaching in 2026, the event also explored the economic opportunities these milestones present for local businesses and the broader community.
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ProVisors MTV1's 'Executive Indulgence Soirée'
Infamously dubbed?“The Fastest 90 Minutes in ProVisors,”?the Provisors - MTV1 Chapter extends our sincere gratitude to everyone who joined us for our Executive Indulgence Social Event on February 6th. The Valentine’s Day Soirée at HK provided the perfect setting to exchange meaningful conversations, celebrate one another, and strengthen our connections.
Guests enjoyed an evening of live music and decadent chocolate tastings with Joey Tran, Founder of Francium Chocolates. A special shoutout to our Member Candidate and esteemed VIP guests, including the remarkable Azadeh Riaz(https://lnkd.in/gVMyVvpb), Owner of House of Azadeh (and the first designer at Bebe when it was just four retail stores), and Emmy Award winning KTVU News Correspondent, Rosemary Orozco (https://lnkd.in/gYbaEvgE).
Events like these remind us that showing up is more than just attending. It is about creating opportunities, building relationships, and opening doors to collaborations. We look forward to seeing you at our next ProVisors social event because the best connections often begin with a simple conversation.
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Boys & Girls Club of Silicon Valley's 'Youth of the Year' Gala
As proud sponsors of the?Boys & Girls Clubs of Silicon Valley Youth of the Year Gala, firm members James Hoover, Michelle Hoover, Elaine Le, Vivian Tran were deeply moved by the inspiring stories shared on stage.
Throughout the evening, the?finalists spoke about how BGCSV became their safe space after school, a place where they found support, guidance, and the confidence to dream bigger. Their heartfelt speeches were a powerful reminder of the?life-changing impact BGCSV has on young people?in our community.
This event?emphasized the urgent need to take action so every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential—because it all starts with?someone believing in them. This message resonated throughout the night, reinforcing the importance of investing in programs that uplift and empower youth.
The evening also featured an exciting?live auction?led by Subyn Novelle, helping raise critical funds to continue BGCSV’s mission. Thank you to our guests Sara Craven, CFP?, CEPA?and Tamara Pow, for contributing to this wonderful event.
Congratulations to winner Alina, and all the finalists! Your resilience, ambition, and courage inspire us all. We are proud to support BGCSV in making a lasting impact on the future of our youth.
#YouthOfTheYear
#BGCSV
#GreatFuturesStartHere
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Peninsula College Fund's Donor Appreciation Dinner
The Peninsula College Fund (PCF) Donor Appreciation Dinner, attended by Director of Community Relations Michelle Hoover, was a wonderful event celebrating the generosity and support of donors who help further PCF's mission. The evening recognized the vital contributions of donors and mentors in empowering first-generation college students from low-income backgrounds to achieve their higher education goals.
One of the most impactful moments of the evening was hearing Joey’s inspiring journey—from navigating life as a foster youth to receiving PCF’s support, including the guidance of his mentor, Dory, and securing a summer internship through connections made at the Career Exploration Fair. Now, as he embarks on a study abroad adventure in Australia, Joey’s words powerfully reminded us of why this work matters:
"Peninsula College Fund, thank you for investing in individuals that traditionalists would often pass up, as their past does not bolster what a typical individual needs to succeed in life. I hope we all can look around tonight and realize the beauty in this room, the beauty of the rewriting of the wheel and ending the stigma around Foster-Youth."
PCF, based in the San Francisco Bay Area, is committed to supporting first-generation college students with scholarships, mentorship, workshops, and holistic support. Through this comprehensive approach, PCF helps ensure that students not only get into college but also persist through graduation and secure meaningful careers.
Another way to give back is by?volunteering for PCF's Career Exploration Fair on Saturday, July 12!?Spend?just 2.5 hours?meeting virtually with 2-3 scholars, answering their career questions from the comfort of your home.?No prep work required—simply complete your online profile after registering, and you're ready to go!
Event Details:
??Time:?10:00 AM - 12:30 PM, Saturday, July 12, 2025
??Where:?Virtual meetings on Zoom
Want to learn more?
Contact?[email protected]
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT
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Camp Taylor
This month, we are happy to feature a community spotlight on Camp Taylor. Camp Taylor is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing medically supervised?camp?programs for children with heart disease and their families. Founded in 2002, its mission is to create positive, self-affirming experiences that help pediatric heart patients overcome the emotional and developmental challenges associated with their condition (https://lnkd.in/g3P3Jkmh).
The organization offers a variety of programs, including:
Youth?Camp: A residential?camp?for children aged 7 to 12 with heart disease, along with one sibling from the same household.
Teen?Camp: Designed for teenagers to connect and share experiences.
Family?Camp: Allows the entire family to participate in?camp?activities.
Heart Mom's Retreat: A weekend retreat offering support and relaxation for mothers of children with heart conditions.
These programs aim to provide a safe and nurturing environment where participants can engage in recreational activities, receive heart health education, and build lasting friendships with others facing similar health challenges.?Camp?Taylor's?campus, known as?Camp?Taylor?Riverfront, is located in Modesto, California. The facility hosts various programs throughout the year and is also available for community events and group rentals.?The organization relies on donations and volunteers to support its mission. Opportunities to contribute include planned giving, purchasing merchandise, and volunteering in?campprograms.
For more information or to get involved, visit their website at www.kidsheartcamp.org or contact them via email at [email protected].
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