Business Details
Your Trusted Hannibal MO Legal Advocates
At Cruse Chaney-Faughn, we bring decades of combined legal experience to serve clients facing complex challenges in bankruptcy, family law, personal injury, and criminal defense. Our attorneys, including Fredrich Crusea former judge with over 40 years of practiceand Julia Chaney-Faughn, a dedicated advocate for family and disability rights, prioritize client confidentiality and aggressive representation. We serve individuals, families, and businesses across Northeast Missouri, offering personalized strategies rooted in deep knowledge of state and federal courts.Our commitment to justice is reflected in our track record of protecting client assets, securing fair compensation, and defending rights in sensitive legal matters. We operate from offices in Hannibal and Shelbina, Missouri, with flexible appointment options to accommodate client needs.
Services
Bankruptcy Law
Family Law
Personal Injury
DUI Defense
Social Security Disability
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of bankruptcy law expertise from a former judge.
- Our attorneys are admitted to multiple federal courts and state bars.
- We maintain strict client confidentiality in sensitive family law cases.
- Proven track record in complex Chapter 11 and Chapter 12 bankruptcy filings.
- Specialized knowledge in social security disability and special needs planning.
Services
Bankruptcy Law
We guide individuals and businesses through Chapter 7, 11, and 12 bankruptcy filings to discharge debts and protect assets. Our attorneys negotiate with creditors and represent clients in court proceedings across Missouri, Illinois, and Iowa districts. With decades of experience, we help clients rebuild financial stability while maintaining compliance with federal bankruptcy codes.
Family Law
Our firm handles divorce, child custody, adoption, and property division cases with discretion and empathy. We protect parental rights and advocate for fair spousal support arrangements while prioritizing children's best interests. Our attorneys leverage deep knowledge of Missouri family court procedures to resolve disputes efficiently through negotiation or litigation when necessary.
Personal Injury
We represent clients injured in auto accidents, workplace incidents, and slip-and-fall cases to recover medical expenses and compensation for pain. Our team investigates claims, gathers evidence, and negotiates with insurance companies to secure fair settlements. When needed, we litigate aggressively to ensure full accountability for negligent parties.
DUI Defense
Our attorneys defend against DUI/DWI charges that threaten driving privileges and personal freedom. We challenge evidence, negotiate reduced penalties, and represent clients in license suspension hearings. With experience in Missouri's criminal justice system, we work to minimize jail time, fines, and long-term consequences of convictions.
Social Security Disability
We assist clients with initial applications and appeals for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Our team prepares medical documentation, represents clients at hearings, and establishes eligibility for benefits. We also create Special Needs Trusts and ABLE accounts to protect government benefit eligibility for disabled individuals.
People
Fredrich J. Cruse
Attorney
Admitted to Missouri Bar since 1974, with federal court qualifications in three districts. Served eight years in U.S. Marine Corps and received Missouri Bar Solo Practice award. Specializes in bankruptcy law with 40+ years of experience handling complex Chapter 11 filings and foreclosure prevention cases.
Julia A. Chaney-Faughn
Attorney
Missouri Bar member since 2008 with focus on family law and disability advocacy. Recognized 2023 Pro Bono Award winner. Serves on AVENUES board for domestic abuse survivors and completed Special Education Law Training. Represents clients in family court and social security disability cases.
Questions
What bankruptcy options exist for Missouri residents?
We help clients evaluate Chapter 7 liquidation or Chapter 13 repayment plans based on income and debt levels. Our attorneys explain eligibility requirements and help protect exempt assets during proceedings.
How are child custody decisions made in Missouri?
Missouri courts prioritize children's best interests when determining custody arrangements. We help establish custody schedules, modify existing agreements, and represent clients in contested hearings regarding parental rights.
What should I do immediately after a car accident?
Seek medical attention, document the scene with photos, and contact our office before speaking with insurance companies. We help preserve evidence and calculate fair compensation for injuries and property damage.
Can I get disability benefits for long-term illness?
If your medical condition prevents substantial gainful activity for 12+ months, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. We assist with applications, medical evidence submission, and appeals for denied claims.
What happens during a DUI court proceeding?
We challenge evidence admissibility, negotiate plea bargains when appropriate, and represent clients at trial. Our goal is to minimize penalties through reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or case dismissal.
