Areas of Practice
GENERAL CORPORATE
Ongoing businesses have various and wide ranging needs from preparation of contracts, review of loan and other documents to other matters pertaining to operating in a competitive and often litigious business environment. I not only assist my business clients with preparation and review of various documents but also seek to provide clarity and efficient solutions to each client's particular transaction. In addition, I work with clients that are managing start-ups to choose the most suitable form of business entity, such as a corporation, limited liability company, a partnership or sole proprietorship.
TRUST ADMINISTRATION
The trust administration process generally occurs if the deceased person created a trust during his or her lifetime or created a trust under a Will that comes into existence at the person's death. The trust will name a person or entity to act as trustee. The trustee must carry out the wishes that are set forth in the trust document and facilitate the transfer of ownership to new owners. The money and assets in the trust have to be carefully managed by the trustee, and the trustee is in charge of the formal trust administration process. The process of transferring assets under a trust can move much more quickly than the probate process because there is no probate court involved in trust administration. The trustee has a fiduciary duty to manage the assets in the trust properly and to act in the best interest of trust beneficiaries. If the beneficiaries believe the trustee is failing in his duties, they may take legal action against the trustee. I work with the trustee to help them understand his or her duties and to help ensure a smooth transition of the assets.
ESTATE PLANNING
I represent individuals with all levels of wealth and various complicated family situations in the preparation of estate plans desgined to meet the client's needs and objectives. Estate planning is not only for the wealthy. An appropriately drafted estate plan can benefit nearly anyone who is concerned about providing for his or her loved ones and helping their family avoid a lengthy and stressful legal process following his or her passing. From wills to trusts and other estate planning instruments, I can help you choose the most appropriate estate planning strategy for you.
REAL ESTATE
The field of real estate is subject to complex laws and regulations that apply to purchase and sale transactions, title and closing, and other matters. In many cases, it is simply not enough to hire a real estate agent. Often times it is beneficial to retain the services of an attorney who has skill in navigating the legal issues involved in negotiating and drafting purchase and sale agreements and other documents. I work with both companies and individuals to assist in the acquisition and sale of real estate.
PROBATE
When a person passes away and owns assets in his or her own name that do not have a beneficiary designation or similar designation, whether they have a will in place or not, those assets likely go through the probate process in order to get transferred to the intended person. The deceased's assets must be identified, brought together, used to pay off any remaining debts and then distributed to those persons named in the will. In some cases when proper estate planning has been completed, probate may be avoided. However, every situation must be treated on a case by case basis. I work with personal representative to help such person unde brstand his or her duties and help ensure a complete administration of the estate.