- Criminal DefenseThe word “shark” tends to conjure up images of the Great White – star of Shark Week and the blockbuster movie Jaws – most definitely a massive, rogue, killing machine. Interestingly, while the Great White is the celebrity villain of the shark realm, the world’s salt and fresh water habitats host over 500 different species of sharks. Similarly, the “lawyer” most people know is the brash, arrogant, criminal defense attorney seen on television, with questionable morals and ethics, representing the scum bag criminal that everybody knows is guilty, who spends his time scouring the law books looking for a legal loophole to “get him off on a technicality.”
- Juvenile CrimesLike shark species, there are literally hundreds of areas of law in which an attorney can practice. From civil rights to corporate and securities law, from criminal law to family and juvenile law, from wills and trusts to taxation and sports and entertainment law, from real estate to patents or immigration issues, an attorney can practice in any area where his or her passion lies. Some attorneys spend their days in a courtroom. Many attorneys never see the inside of a courtroom or a jail. And like the shark, while a small percentage of attorneys are unethical and cruel and will take advantage of folks given half a chance, in reality, most attorneys, though often criticized or misunderstood, are intelligent, compassionate individuals with good moral values, high integrity and a genuine desire to help people.
- Corporate Law
- Trade Secrets
- Sexual HarassmentDivorce, inheritance, health issues, creditors, employees, theft, changing markets, malpractice suits, sexual harassment claims, natural disasters and disgruntled business partners are just a few issues that can result in devastating lawsuits for the unprepared. The highest level of risk falls on those who think they are immune.
- Real Estate LitigationWe can also help with other real estate matters. From the sale or purchase of your home or rental property, to leasing matters and title issues, we can help. We are experienced in zoning, development, and other land use matters. If it’s simple or complex, we will make sure you are protected.
- Land Use and Zoning
- Estate PlanningIn the estate planning context, determining how to title your real estate determines how it will be distributed at your death. The choice of joint tenancy with rights of survivorship, tenants in common, individually or tenants by the entirety is an important one. In addition, transferring real estate to a corporation, partnership, limited liability company or to a trust may have significant tax and liability exposure results.
- Wills"I have worked with Doug for over 20 years. At first I consulted with him about basic business questions, but as my business grew I worked with Doug to set up what I call a death plan. What would happen to my family if something were to happen to me? What type of life insurance do I need to properly protect my family and business? Who would make decisions about my health care if I was incapacitated? How can I ensure that my wishes were carried out, even after death? Doug was able to walk me through all of these issues. He was able to develop living wills, family trusts, family partnerships, a nonprofit foundation, several business entities, and life insurance trusts that allow me to continue building my business without worrying about what would happen upon my death. Doug gets it. He understands the concerns of families, business owners, and entrepreneurs. His extensive knowledge and training in the estate planning arena allowed him to make the process smooth and easy. Doug's talents are not limited to estate planning, and I have used him many times as General Counsel. Over the years I have come to trust as an attorney, a confidant, and personal friend. Business owners have a lot to worry about, but they shouldn't have to worry about what happens to their wealth or their family on their death. Doug is eliminated that concern for me. One last thing. For those of you who have dealt with attorneys in the past one of the biggest frustrations is the fact that you can never get a hold of them, or they don't return your calls. That is not an issue with Doug. He not only returns calls, he will give you his cell phone number. I have seen Doug's practice grow over the years, but the growth has not affected his customer service skills. I recommend Doug without reservation." Roy
- TrustsIf a living trust is part of your estate plan, asset retitling is part of our commitment to the success of your plan. Accordingly, the next step is an Asset and Language Review Meeting or phone call a week or so after the Design Meeting to identify all of your assets and ensure the framework of your plan is as you want it. This meeting, which may also be a phone call, will last about 45 minutes. If a living trust is not part of your plan, any asset retitling will be your responsibility and we won’t need this meeting or call, although we will be as involved as you want us to be for an additional fee.
- Power of AttorneyI have a current Health Care Power of Attorney to permit my spouse, children or other family member to make health care decisions for me in the event I am unable to do so.
- Probate
- Tax LawTo help owners protect estates and businesses that have been a lifetime in the making, we focus on an integrated approach to planning. This approach includes estate, retirement, insurance, asset protection, and tax planning issues. More importantly, it includes discussions about family values and belief systems. As a result, we rely heavily on the expertise of your other professional advisers to help create the most effective team for your success.