Trusts & estates
Should I write a Will or set up a Trust?
You should have at least one estate planning document, but the best choice depends on your goals. Our office provides free consultations to discuss your situation. Marci can review your assets and family circumstances to help determine whether a will, a trust, or both best meet your needs.
What’s the difference between a Will and a Trust?
A will outlines how your assets are distributed after your death. A trust, on the other hand, allows your assets to pass directly to your beneficiaries without probate, thereby saving time and expense while protecting your privacy concerns.
Do I really need an estate plan if I don’t have a lot of money?
Yes. Estate planning isn’t only for the wealthy. It ensures that your wishes are respected, allows you to name guardians for minor children, and helps loved ones avoid confusion or conflict.
What is a power of attorney and why do I need one?
A power of attorney lets someone you trust manage your financial matters if you become unable to do so. Without it, your loved ones may need to go through court proceedings to handle even basic tasks.
Do you handle healthcare documents as well?
Absolutely. We prepare Health Care Proxies and Living Wills to ensure your medical decisions are respected and your family isn’t left uncertain during a crisis.
REAL ESTATE
Should I hire an attorney when buying or selling property?
Yes. Whether residential or commercial, having an experienced attorney ensures your transaction goes smoothly and your interests are protected. Our office provides free consultations to discuss your deal, review contracts, and identify potential issues before they become problems.
What does a real estate attorney actually do?
Your attorney reviews and negotiates purchase or lease agreements, examines title reports, coordinates with your lender, and represents you at closing. For commercial clients, we also assist with zoning, financing and lease negotiations to safeguard your business investments.
Do I need an attorney if I’m just buying a home?
Yes. Even a straightforward residential closing can involve complex documents. We ensure your contract terms are fair, verify there are no title defects and help you understand your mortgage obligations before signing anything.
Do you handle commercial leases and real property transactions?
Absolutely. We represent both landlords and tenants in drafting, reviewing, and negotiating commercial leases. Our services also include purchase and sale agreements, 1031 exchanges, and property development contracts.
traffic law
Should I just go ahead and pay my ticket? I just want to get this over with?
Do NOT just pay a ticket. All consultations are free, so it is always worth it to call our office to discuss. For a nominal fee Marci can acquire your driver’s abstract, analyze it and help you made a good decision about the route to go when you receive a ticket.
What does it mean to get points on my license?
The Driver Violation Point System gives the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles a way to identify and take action against high-risk drivers. The DMV assigns points for certain traffic violations. If you get 11 points in an 18-month period, your driver license may be suspended.
What’s the deal with cell phones?
The law is that you are not allowed to hold a hand held mobile device or a portable electronic device (such as a GPS unit) when you drive. If you are in the car with the key in the ignition and have one in your hand, even if the device is not on, you can be ticketed. Cell phone violations now carry 5 points.
I heard you can get a discount on your car insurance if you take a course. Should I do it?
The course will get you a light reduction on your premium, but it has another feature that could be more important: it reduces 4 points off of your license. But it only reduces them retroactively, so you should WAIT to use the course until you need it.