You may be aware that the federal estate tax, which was repealed for 2010, resumes in 2011 on estates with assets exceeding $1 million dollars. The Massachusetts estate tax remains in effect and also taxes estate assets over $1 million. In addition to worrying about estate taxes, the law also requires you to pay a… Continue reading »
Aug
20
Aug
20
What’s in a Name?
I recall the time, as a joke, a relative made a piece of ceramic “art” and signed it “Picasso.” He then told our family that he had purchased an original ceramic ashtray by the late, great artist. We all had a good laugh. But had this event happened today, and if Picasso were still alive,… Continue reading »
Aug
20
Using Strategic and Tactical Decision Making to Control Litigation Costs
It is, perhaps, too obvious to be worth noting that the costs of litigation are a primary source of friction between clients and their attorneys. Though a good attorney will do his or her best to advise a client of the likely costs of litigation at the outset of a case, all too often, as… Continue reading »
Aug
18
The Many Costs of Divorce (Part 1)
This article is the first of several which will address the many costs of a divorce. The first cost to come to mind for most people is probably legal fees. Legal fees can add up quickly and are often problematic for many litigants who may already be emotionally distraught from their own circumstances. Fees vary… Continue reading »
Aug
17
Kid’s Law (Part 1)
Having written twice about “Dad’s Law” as it relates to my college-age daughter, I am now taking on a bit of a role reversal. As parents age, the process of starting to take over certain tasks and responsibilities for our parents can be one of the most distressing experiences of a lifetime. After a lifetime… Continue reading »
May
13
Intend What You “Will…”
Konowitz & Greenberg recently represented the Executrix of an Estate in a Will contest filed by the adult children of the decedent, and successfully obtained summary judgment in favor of the Executrix, striking the objections to the Will. While the Court ultimately upheld the validity of the Will, the challenge created considerable expenses for the… Continue reading »
May
12
When Taking Pen to Paper
You: An artist or creative person who was just offered the opportunity to show or publish your work. (Good Job!) You are overwhelmed with excitement and you are as nervous as can be. The Scene: An office, studio or gallery where you have just been handed a contract by the gallery owner or publisher. The… Continue reading »
May
12
Snow and Ice Liability…Are Changes Afoot?
Winter presents challenges to property and business owners regarding the removal of snow and ice from their premises, and making the premises safe for invitees. It is important for property owners and businesses to understand the law in this area and to be aware of the potential changes in the law that affect a property… Continue reading »
May
12
Informal Probate is Coming to Massachusetts
The laws in Massachusetts affecting the probate of Wills, dying without a Will (intestate), and the administration of estates have undergone a complete transformation. Effective on July 1, 2011, the Massachusetts Probate Code (the “Code”) repeals the majority of the existing chapters and statutes on probate law in an effort to simplify, streamline and clarify… Continue reading »
May
12
Dad Law: I Cannot Believe They Are Adults (Part 2)!
With my older daughter now a second semester freshman, I never thought that there would be a second part to “legally she is an adult.” I am confident that, as an adult and as a college student, she is prepared to understand and appreciate what is asked of her. Of course, I also can say… Continue reading »