Life Death & the Law

Is Your Name Still on Your Deed? (How to Check for Free)

Is your home truly yours? In this episode of Life, Death, & the Law, attorneys Shawn Garner and Thomas Sparks reveal a surging crime in Yuma County: Deed Fraud. Fraudsters are forging signatures and recording fake deeds, leaving rightful owners in legal limbo for years.We break down the critical differences between Quitclaim, Special Warranty, and General Warranty deeds, and why choosing the wrong one could nullify your title insurance. You'll learn the step-by-step process for a Quiet Title Action and how to use the County Recorder’s new free alert system to catch fraudsters in real-time.Key Takeaways:The "Scam" Script: Why high-pressure "cash only" deals are a major red flag.Title Insurance Secrets: Why you should never skip escrow, even in a private sale.The Arizona Advantage: How "Notice Statutes" determine who actually owns a property.Estate Planning Protection: Why conveying property to a Trust requires a specific type of deed to maintain insurance.Stop fraudsters before they start. Visit your County Recorder’s website today to register your property for free alerts.Want to schedule an appointment?Visit https://deasongarnerlaw.com or call (928) 783-4575Follow Deason Garner & Hansen: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/JGzv42UBzXoLmQQF/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dghlawfirm?igsh=am43eGkxYWN2cG11

The Renaissance Man of Yuma

In this episode of Life, Death & the Law, host Adam Hansen sits down with John Stutzman, a man whose life story is as eclectic as the skills he possesses. As a professional real estate appraiser with over 20 years of experience in Yuma, Arizona, John shares his unique perspective on the local market—from the structural quirks of hay bale homes and the rise of 3D-printed concrete houses to the "nepotism" and stringent apprenticeship requirements that define his industry.The conversation dives deep into the psychology of home selling, offering practical advice on which renovations (like kitchens and master baths) actually drive up value and why sometimes it’s better to offer a repair credit than to fix a leaky water heater yourself.But John is more than just an appraiser; he is a true Renaissance man. He opens up about his fascinating heritage, detailing his upbringing in Amish and Mennonite communities in Ohio and Illinois. From stories of being "shunned" as a child to his ten-year career in the Air Force as a military working dog trainer, John’s journey is one of tradition, transition, and technical mastery. Whether he’s discussing piloting 87-foot yachts, the intricacies of making wool socks, or "sticking it to the man" through savvy business write-offs, John proves that a life well-lived is one spent constantly learning.Highlights include:The Future of Appraisals: Will AI and automated valuation models replace the human touch?Home Value Myths: Do pools really add value, or are they a liability in certain neighborhoods? Amish vs. Mennonite: Understanding the cultural differences, the "shunning" process, and the symbolism of the beard.K9 Chronicles: Insights from John’s time training elite military dogs for the Air Force.Connect with John Stutzman:If you are looking for professional appraisal services or want to tap into John’s extensive knowledge of the Yuma real estate market, you can reach him at Stutzman Appraisal (https://stutzmanappraisalservice1.appraiserxsites.com/HomePage.x). John specializes in residential appraisals and is widely considered the most experienced expert in the region for unique builds, including sustainable and alternative housingWant to schedule an appointment?Visit https://deasongarnerlaw.com or call (928) 783-4575Follow Deason Garner & Hansen: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/JGzv42UBzXoLmQQF/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dghlawfirm?igsh=am43eGkxYWN2cG11

The Fortuna Hills Story: Liquor Laws, Supply Chains, and Personal Responsibility

What does it really take to run a top-rated local business in a heavily regulated industry? Randy from Fortuna Hills Liquor joins the show to discuss the grit behind the glamour of entrepreneurship, from working 100-hour weeks to battling supply chain middlemen and "crony capitalism". Beyond business, Randy shares what it was like growing up in a refugee family that arrived with no money or English, and how those origins forged a relentless work ethic that started when he was just a child.Want to schedule an appointment?Visit https://deasongarnerlaw.com or call (928) 783-4575Follow Deason Garner & Hansen: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/JGzv42UBzXoLmQQF/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dghlawfirm?igsh=am43eGkxYWN2cG11

Designing Legacies: From Architecture to Adventure with Chris Thompson

Join host and attorney Shawn Garner for a wide-ranging conversation that bridges the gap between the physical structures we build and the digital legacies we leave behind. This week, Shawn welcomes special guest Chris Thompson, an architect and entrepreneur, to explore how design and technology shape our culture and communities. In this episode, they dive into: * The Architecture of Community: Chris shares his perspective on how architecture influences our daily lives and the importance of "designing legacies" that stand the test of time. * A New Frontier in Yuma: The duo discusses the upcoming arrival of Twisted Sugar to the community, highlighting the local growth and new adventures happening right in Yuma. * Technology vs. Tradition: Reflecting on recent discussions about the "Tower of Babel" in a modern context, Shawn and Chris examine how society increasingly turns to technology and figures like Elon Musk for answers and comfort that were once sought through spiritual means. * Life’s Milestones: Shawn reflects on turning 49 and his desire to "squeeze every bit of life" out of his final year in his 40s through new adventures and family time. Whether you are interested in the legal principles of estate planning or the shifting landscape of modern society, this episode offers a unique perspective on building a life—and a legacy—worth remembering. Want to schedule an appointment?Visit https://deasongarnerlaw.com or call (928) 783-4575Follow Deason Garner & Hansen: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/JGzv42UBzXoLmQQF/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dghlawfirm?igsh=am43eGkxYWN2cG1

Should the Government Own the Means of Production? (Reaction)

Does the government belong in your boardroom? 🏢In this episode of Life, Death, & the Law, attorney Shawn Garner and Thomas Sparks react to a provocative and satirical breakdown by Andrew Heaton (Reason Magazine). They dive deep into the uncomfortable truth about government efficiency—or the lack thereof—and why the private sector must remain protected from political interference.Whether it’s a discussion on fascism, the "means of production," or why the average citizen knows their lifestyle better than any politician in D.C., Shawn and Thomas break down complex economic principles with humor and legal insight.In this episode, you’ll discover:The Waste Factor: Why the government is statistically the most wasteful entity in existence.The "Burglars & Bears" Framework: What the actual role of government should be in a free society.A New Perspective on Fascism: How Andrew Heaton’s satirical take reveals a deeper truth about modern policy.Individual Sovereignty: Why no one in government is better equipped to make decisions for your life than you are.Subscribe for more deep dives into the principles of law, liberty, and personal freedom.Want to schedule an appointment?Visit https://deasongarnerlaw.com or call (928) 783-4575Follow Deason Garner & Hansen: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/JGzv42UBzXoLmQQF/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dghlawfirm?igsh=am43eGkxYWN2cG11