Most people know what a will is, but many don’t understand their importance, especially in end of life planning. Surprisingly, it’s fairly common for an individual to pass away without a will in place. In a recent wills and estate …
In my 20 years as a judge, I’ve watched as many attorneys tried to resolve their cases through mediation. Now, it’s my turn to take what I’ve observed – and learned – from some of the best mediations and use …
Three words – reasonably comparable matching – can be enough to cause an insurance headache. It is an issue that has recently come up with increasing frequency, usually as a result of a claim by a residential homeowner or commercial property owner over storm damage to roofing …
Depending upon the circumstances, there are several trust options for those who are disabled and receiving Medicaid and SSI benefits. These all come under the general definition of “Special Needs Trust” and have various benefits and can be used in …
Millennials have always been under a microscope, scrutinized for everything from their spending habits to their work ethic. This fascination in the age group – those from roughly 26 to 41 – isn’t surprising given that at 72 million-strong it …
Ohio counties looking to boost community development and breathe new life into blighted or dormant properties have found land banks to be an incredibly useful tool. Land banks are a specialized version of community improvement corporations, with the distinction of …
The standard for establishing bad faith by insurers was set nearly three decades ago when the Ohio Supreme Court ruled in Zoppo v. Homestead Insurance Co. The high court set the “reasonable justification” standard in that 1994 ruling, which declared …
In January, one of our clients passed away with an estate worth about $2 million and substantial funds invested in the stock market. Based upon his revocable trust, those monies were to be divided between relatives. When we met with …
For the past eight years, the Ohio Department of Jobs & Family Services (ODJFS) has adhered to a U.S. Sixth Circuit Court order that provided limited protections for private sector retirees. This court ruling was the leading precedent for protecting …
One of the necessary tools for today’s general contractors and other key players in the construction industry is a commercial general liability policy. It covers your business from financial loss should you be held liable for property damage or personal …
Most people are familiar with wills and trusts, but often do not understand the difference between the two. This lack of understanding could lead an individual to choose the option that is not optimal for them. As you consider whether …
As a veteran litigator, Sam Pipino has witnessed several construction claims due to building envelope issues over the years. Here, he’s compiled a few tips for builders of commercial and residential properties to mitigate their risk of liability. Check it …
