Our Areas of Practice

 

 

Practice Areas

 Trusts and Estates


Estate Planning
 We take the time to sit with you and determine all of your needs, wishes, and how best to accomplish them. We will assist you in the drafting and exection of your will, power of attorney, living will, and health care proxy. If you are looking to manage and control your assets, we can assits in the creation of a living or testamentary trust. Special attention is given to Estate Tax and other tax issues.


Probation
Whether your loved one has died with or without a will, we can help with the final settling of their estate. We assist with the drafting and filing of all necessary documents with the court and help in the identification and assessment of assets.


Estate Administration
Once an executor or administrator to an estate has been appointed, we continue to serve by advising them in their required duties and filings. We will work with you to identify all assets, properly account them to the courts, and distribute them to the rightful beneficiaries. All the while making sure that both the estate and the fiduciary are being protected at every step.


Litigation
No matter how well you plan, sometimes things go wrong. If this happens, we are there to guide and assist you. We handle all types of litigation issues, from will challenges to trustee misconduct to accounting issues. We represent both petitioners and respondents, so whether it is your estate being challenged or you need to challenge the actions of another, we are here for you.

  Commercial and Business Law


Formation
 Whether you are starting a small individually owned business, a major corporation, or a not-for-profit company, we can assist you in all areas of formation. From incorporation to filing to operation agreements and beyond, we are experienced in all legal issues you may encounter or must consider.


Protection
Even the best-managed business can find itself in trouble. When that happens, we are here to help. We can help with your licensing issues, shareholder issues, your trademark disputes, as well as advertising and marketing violations. We represent both plaintiffs and defendants, so whether you are looking to protect your intellectual property or defend yourself against the wrongful business practices of another, we will stand by your side.
Protection to use does not just mean representing you when something goes wrong, it also means ensuring that the future of your company is what you want it to be. We will help you draft your operation and shareholder agreements to ensure that the company is run how you want and by who you want. When it is time to add "& Son" to the sign, we will guide you to ensure that your entire family gets what they want from the business. And when it is finally time to permanently hand the keys to the next generation, we will make sure that your legacy and their future is protected.


Intellectual Property
As experts in trademark and copyright laws, we stand ready to help you protect one of the most valuable assets of all, your creativity. We can help you protect your company name, logo, website, blog, and other forms of communication and advertising. We make sure that you get the full value out of your creations.


Sales/Transfers
Looking to purchase an already existing business or sell yours? We will advise you on the relevant issues,  guide you through the legal process to help ensure your confidence in the final result, and represent you in negotiations and contract creation.


Derivative/Direct Shareholder Lawsuits
As a shareholder, the company you own stock in has a duty to look out for your interests. While the Board is tasked with your protection, they can sometimes fail. We represent you to make sure that you are compensated for damages suffered when Directors and Officers fail in their duties of care, loyalty, and good faith.

 Civil Litigation


General Civil Litigation
We understand that dealing with the court system can be confusing and frustrating. Whether you have been served a summons or are seeking to bring suite against another, we make sure that you understand the process, are aware of all your rights and options, and are represented at every step. From initial filings to settlement negotiation to trial, we are always fighting for you.


Contract Disputes
 Have you signed a contract and now the other party is refusing to hold up their end? Have you been accused of not meeting your promises? Are you being unfairly held to a contract term that is overly vague or illegal? We can represent you in finding a solution.
Due to the Corona-19 Virus, many contracts have been breached in unexpected and unpredictable ways. Though many laws and process have been altered by the Governor to meet this crises, it may be difficult to keep up with the almost daily changes and how they affect you. We can help you understand the virus' effect on your contract and guide you in how to move forward without further violations.


Property Disputes
Have you run into issues with the title of your property? Are your neighbors building a driveway or fence that is encroaching on or blocking access to your land? Has your property been damaged due to the negligence of others? Are you being denied access to property you have a right to use? We represent you to help protect your home and property.


Complaints Against Village/City
Have you received a violation notice from the local government? Are you seeking to enforce your rights as a citizen? Do you have a complaint that you wish to file with the city? We counsel and represent you at every step to make sure that you do not have to fight city hall on your own.

  Real Estate


Transactions
 Whether you are buying or selling, we represent you to ensure that everything is done correctly and timely. We are experts in both commercial and residential transactions, including co-op and condo transactions.


Litigation
When a real estate deal falls through or one party chooses not to honor their end of the bargain, you need legal representation to ensure that your rights are protected. We represent both plaintiffs and defendants in all issues relating to their real estate transactions. From security deposit return to compelled performance of the sale, we make sure your protected.


Foreclosures
Unfortunately, bad things happen to good people. If you have had issues that have resulted in a foreclosure of your property, whether commercial or residential, we can help. We will make sure your legal rights are enforced, negotiate with the bank, and represent you in the legal process all with the goal of saving your home or business.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many property owners have found themselves unable to afford their rent or mortgage. Fortunately, the Governor of the State of New York has issued executive orders meant to help those effected. We can help you determine whether you qualify for this aid and work for you to ensure that the virus does not cost you your home or business.

 Theatre Law


Production
Our theatre attorney has over fifteen years experience as a professional director, actor, and stage manager. As such, we are very familiar with all the legal needs of a working show. We can assist you in everything from venue negotiation, talent contracts, copyright procurement/protection, insurance needs, and advertising. We ensure that all you need to worry about is what is on the stage.

Litigation
As an artist, it is in your nature to push the limits and challenge your audience. Unfortunately, that comes with its own unique legal risks. We handle all areas of theatre litigation, from freedom of speech to obscenity laws to libel/slander allegations.
Our litigation expertise does not stop at the lip of the stage. We represent clients in all aspects of litigation that arise from a production. We can help with contract issues, copyright disputes, discrimination accusations, and all other issues that you may face in mounting your show.

Unions
Dealing with the Unions can be a frustrating part of any production experience. We can assist with your negotiations and contracts with EQUITY, IATSE, Director's Guild, and AFM.