One of my favorite movies is the 1993 film “Groundhog Day,"starring Bill Murray. I highly recommend it. Groundhog Day stars Bill Muray as an arrogant TV weather man who has been sent to Punxsutawney, PA to cover Groundhog Day.
After he completes the show, Bill Murray goes to bed and awakes to find the same day all over again. In fact, it happens several, if not hundreds of times- starting the day over. Murray little by little realizes that he can do some good while stuck in this "life loop."
Although that is in a movie, today we have an opportunity to make a fresh start. Most well meaning people make mistakes. Unfortunately, one minor mistake can follow you throughout your life as you prepare for school or a new job. Thankfully if you qualify, you can have a "do over" by way of an expungement.
Expungement allows a criminal conviction to be "sealed," or eliminated, after some time or completion of requirements, such as community service. If you obtain an expungement, you can honestly say "no" when asked if you have had any previous arrests or convictions. People with expungements of a criminal conviction and in some cases even an arrest ordinarily do not have to be disclosed by the person convicted. In fact, an arrest or conviction will not appear when a potential employer, for example, conducts a background search of an individual's public records.
With the exception of law enforcement persons, an expungement of an arrest or conviction record indicates that the records are sealed. The arrests or convictions are as if they had never happened.
Be mindful, however, that not all crimes are eligible for expungement. I know that in New Jersey, (since the rules for expungement vary from state to state) felony convictions or convictions involving sex offenses are not eligible. Usually, juvenile and misdemeanor convictions are most often subject to expungement.
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Legal Check Up
All of us have heard that we should have an annual medical check-up. But how many of us have performed a “legal” check-up? The following is a list of points to review with yourself and your family.
Have you:
1. Created a document to determine who should receive your assets when you pass away?
2. Designated a Guardian for your minor children?
3. Decided who could make financial decisions for you if you are not available or incapacitated?
4. Decided who will make your health care decisions if you are not able to communicate or incapacitated?
5. Reviewed each of your assets, like bank accounts, and designated beneficiaries?
6. Made a list of where all your financial and legal documents can be located?
7. Reviewed and decided what public benefits you are legible for, such as Social Security, Medicare, or Medicaid?
8. Designated a Lawyer and Accountant available to help you in case of urgent issues?
9. Placed all important documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, adoption, divorce, immigration papers in one safe place?
10. Considered Life Insurance?
IF you answered no to any of these, the following are documents you may need to be legally healthy:
will
trusts
insurance policies
real estate deeds
information on bank accounts, mutual funds, and safe deposit boxes
information on retirement plans, 401(k) accounts, or IRAs
information on debts: credit cards, mortgages and loans, utilities, and unpaid taxes
information on Totten trusts or funeral prepayment plans, and any final arrangements instructions you have made.
Have you:
1. Created a document to determine who should receive your assets when you pass away?
2. Designated a Guardian for your minor children?
3. Decided who could make financial decisions for you if you are not available or incapacitated?
4. Decided who will make your health care decisions if you are not able to communicate or incapacitated?
5. Reviewed each of your assets, like bank accounts, and designated beneficiaries?
6. Made a list of where all your financial and legal documents can be located?
7. Reviewed and decided what public benefits you are legible for, such as Social Security, Medicare, or Medicaid?
8. Designated a Lawyer and Accountant available to help you in case of urgent issues?
9. Placed all important documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, adoption, divorce, immigration papers in one safe place?
10. Considered Life Insurance?
IF you answered no to any of these, the following are documents you may need to be legally healthy:
will
trusts
insurance policies
real estate deeds
information on bank accounts, mutual funds, and safe deposit boxes
information on retirement plans, 401(k) accounts, or IRAs
information on debts: credit cards, mortgages and loans, utilities, and unpaid taxes
information on Totten trusts or funeral prepayment plans, and any final arrangements instructions you have made.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
HOW IS MY ESTATE DISTRIBUTED WITHOUT A WILL?
New Jersey law provides how your Estate will be distributed if you do die without a Will. The property referred to in this section deals with assets in the decedent's name alone.
A) If you die leaving a spouse or domestic partner and children of the same marriage, the spouse or domestic partner will inherit the entire estate. (i.e., no stepchildren or children of a prior union)
B) If you die leaving a spouse or domestic partner and children of a prior union, the spouse or domestic partner will inherit the first 25% of the estate, but not less than $50,000.00 nor more than $200,000.00, plus one-half of any balance of the estate. Your children take the balance equally. Grandchildren will take a portion of their deceased parent's share
C) If you die leaving a spouse or domestic partner, child or children a stepchild or stepchildren, the spouse or domestic partner will inherit the first 25% of the estate, but not less than $50,000.00 nor more than $200,000.00, plus one-half of any balance of the estate. Your children take the balance of the estate equally. Grandchildren will take a portion of their deceased parent's share.
D) If you die leaving a spouse or domestic partner and no children, but are survived by parents, the spouse or domestic partner will inherit the first 25% of the estate, but not less than $50,000.00 nor more than $200,000.00 plus three-fourths of any balance of the estate. Your parents take the balance equally.
E) If you die leaving a child or children but no spouse or domestic partner, children will inherit equally. Grandchildren will take a portion of their deceased parent's share.
F) If you die leaving no spouse or domestic partner, children or grandchildren, your parents take all. If no parent survives, your brothers and sisters will take equally.
G) Where there is no immediate family, your property may go to more distant relatives (grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, etc.), then to stepchildren, or even revert to the State.
A) If you die leaving a spouse or domestic partner and children of the same marriage, the spouse or domestic partner will inherit the entire estate. (i.e., no stepchildren or children of a prior union)
B) If you die leaving a spouse or domestic partner and children of a prior union, the spouse or domestic partner will inherit the first 25% of the estate, but not less than $50,000.00 nor more than $200,000.00, plus one-half of any balance of the estate. Your children take the balance equally. Grandchildren will take a portion of their deceased parent's share
C) If you die leaving a spouse or domestic partner, child or children a stepchild or stepchildren, the spouse or domestic partner will inherit the first 25% of the estate, but not less than $50,000.00 nor more than $200,000.00, plus one-half of any balance of the estate. Your children take the balance of the estate equally. Grandchildren will take a portion of their deceased parent's share.
D) If you die leaving a spouse or domestic partner and no children, but are survived by parents, the spouse or domestic partner will inherit the first 25% of the estate, but not less than $50,000.00 nor more than $200,000.00 plus three-fourths of any balance of the estate. Your parents take the balance equally.
E) If you die leaving a child or children but no spouse or domestic partner, children will inherit equally. Grandchildren will take a portion of their deceased parent's share.
F) If you die leaving no spouse or domestic partner, children or grandchildren, your parents take all. If no parent survives, your brothers and sisters will take equally.
G) Where there is no immediate family, your property may go to more distant relatives (grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, etc.), then to stepchildren, or even revert to the State.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Controlling Buyer's Remorse
Have you ever bought something and within hours, feel like you made the wrong decision? Or feel that you just made a big mistake? This is a very normal emotion especially among home buyers, aptly named "Buyer's remorse."
Why does this happen? No one is exacly sure but it is normal. Many studies have determined the cause to be due to stress, information overload, anxiety, or fear of the unknown. To control this emotion, however, one should not lose perspective. Buying a home is a good thing. And in this market in particular, there are lots to choose from.
To quell the nerves, do your research. For example, find out the age of the home, the type of neighborhood it's located in and above all, check out comparable purchase prices in the area. Nothing feels worse than the idea that you overpaid for a home.
Lastly, do not rush. Even if you believe in your heart of hearts that this is your one and true home for you, or that there might be another buyer pining for this property, take your time. There is something to the saying "If it's meant to be, it's meant to be."
Why does this happen? No one is exacly sure but it is normal. Many studies have determined the cause to be due to stress, information overload, anxiety, or fear of the unknown. To control this emotion, however, one should not lose perspective. Buying a home is a good thing. And in this market in particular, there are lots to choose from.
To quell the nerves, do your research. For example, find out the age of the home, the type of neighborhood it's located in and above all, check out comparable purchase prices in the area. Nothing feels worse than the idea that you overpaid for a home.
Lastly, do not rush. Even if you believe in your heart of hearts that this is your one and true home for you, or that there might be another buyer pining for this property, take your time. There is something to the saying "If it's meant to be, it's meant to be."
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
What is Quiet Title?
Here is a strange case that has been resolved. Joe and Jane, names fictitious, purchased a tax sale certificate for a vacant lot in New Jersey. In 1965, Joe and Jane transferred the tax sale certificate to their daughter, Susan. Since 1965, Susan has paid and continued to pay the property taxes for the vacant lot. The Township even placed the property tax bills in Susan’s name. The problem arose when Susan decided to sell the vacant lot. A title search was conducted and revealed current owner “unknown.”
Apparently, when the lot was originally obtained by Joe and Jane, they never foreclosed on the property or took any action to place a Deed in their name. In order to cure this problem, Susan needed to file an action for “quiet title.”
Quiet title is a lawsuit to establish a party's title to real property against anyone and everyone, and thus "quiet" any challenges or claims to the title. Such a suit usually arises when there is some question about clear title, there exists some recorded problem (such as an old lease or failure to clear title after payment of a mortgage), an error in description which casts doubt on the amount of property owned, or an easement used for years without a recorded description. An action for quiet title requires description of the property to be "quieted," naming as defendants anyone who might have an interest (including descendants-known or unknown- of prior owners), and the factual and legal basis for the claim of title. Notice must be given to all potentially interested parties, including known and unknown, by publication. If the court is convinced title is in the plaintiff (the plaintiff owns the title), a quiet title judgment will be granted which can be recorded and thus provide legal "good title." Quiet title actions are a common example of "friendly" lawsuits in which often there is no opposition.
Saturday, February 2, 2008
How to avoid Foreclosure Rescue Scams
Foreclosures are on the rise making an excellent breeding ground for scams. Rescue scams are ploys that tout they can “save your home” or “pay your mortgage.”
1. The Scheme: Homeowners are told by a “professional” entity or “foreclosure consultant” to sign over or deed the property to them. They claim that you are no longer responsible for the remaining balance on the mortgage to avoid foreclosure. They also promise to pay off the debt or to sell the house on your behalf. They proceed to rent the house back to either you or someone else. They will then dispose of your home at fair market value and you won't owe them a dime.
The Scam: Deeding over a property does not avoid a foreclosure on your record if the payments are not made or the loan not paid in full. When these clever scammers rent out your property, they collect and pocket the rent until the home goes into foreclosure. You will still be liable for the loan because you are still on the loan, not them!
2. The Scheme: If you agree to a “short sale”, (when the outstanding obligations (loans) against a property are greater than what the property can be sold for. Short sales are a way for homeowners to avoid foreclosure on their homes and still be able to pay off their loan by settling with lender.) beware of an agent that says "List your home with me and I'll pay you $XXXX."
The Scam: This is illegal. One of the forms you and your real estate agent will is sign states that there is no money, you are not expecting any money and you are not receive any proceeds from the sale of your home. If you don't get it in writing, you will never collect after the sale closes. 3.
3.The Scheme: An agent says they are an expert in "Short Sales" or "Short Pays." They may claim to be an expert in this difficult field, and state that this will get you off the hook and protect your credit. Beware!
The Scam: Just because an agent has completed hundreds of short sales does not mean they will protect you! There are things that many agents will not do to protect you. Always be sure the contract is worded correctly to protect you when a buyer makes the offer to purchase your home. If not, the transaction could be reflected on your credit as your credit as "Sold Short", just as bad as a foreclosure. Your lender could issue you a "1099" for tax reporting if your agent does not prepare the contract appropriately. Once the IRS receives your 1099 with a dollar amount, it may reflect income. Guess who pays taxes on that...Not your agent! Again, your agent needs to know the right working to negotiate with your lender. Unless your loan is the original loan you purchased the home with (not a refinance), your lender, at their discretion, could seek a deficiency judgment against you for the balance owing. This judgment could follow you to the end of your days and beyond!
So, beware of those who claim to help you. Ask who are they and what will they actually do?
1. The Scheme: Homeowners are told by a “professional” entity or “foreclosure consultant” to sign over or deed the property to them. They claim that you are no longer responsible for the remaining balance on the mortgage to avoid foreclosure. They also promise to pay off the debt or to sell the house on your behalf. They proceed to rent the house back to either you or someone else. They will then dispose of your home at fair market value and you won't owe them a dime.
The Scam: Deeding over a property does not avoid a foreclosure on your record if the payments are not made or the loan not paid in full. When these clever scammers rent out your property, they collect and pocket the rent until the home goes into foreclosure. You will still be liable for the loan because you are still on the loan, not them!
2. The Scheme: If you agree to a “short sale”, (when the outstanding obligations (loans) against a property are greater than what the property can be sold for. Short sales are a way for homeowners to avoid foreclosure on their homes and still be able to pay off their loan by settling with lender.) beware of an agent that says "List your home with me and I'll pay you $XXXX."
The Scam: This is illegal. One of the forms you and your real estate agent will is sign states that there is no money, you are not expecting any money and you are not receive any proceeds from the sale of your home. If you don't get it in writing, you will never collect after the sale closes. 3.
3.The Scheme: An agent says they are an expert in "Short Sales" or "Short Pays." They may claim to be an expert in this difficult field, and state that this will get you off the hook and protect your credit. Beware!
The Scam: Just because an agent has completed hundreds of short sales does not mean they will protect you! There are things that many agents will not do to protect you. Always be sure the contract is worded correctly to protect you when a buyer makes the offer to purchase your home. If not, the transaction could be reflected on your credit as your credit as "Sold Short", just as bad as a foreclosure. Your lender could issue you a "1099" for tax reporting if your agent does not prepare the contract appropriately. Once the IRS receives your 1099 with a dollar amount, it may reflect income. Guess who pays taxes on that...Not your agent! Again, your agent needs to know the right working to negotiate with your lender. Unless your loan is the original loan you purchased the home with (not a refinance), your lender, at their discretion, could seek a deficiency judgment against you for the balance owing. This judgment could follow you to the end of your days and beyond!
So, beware of those who claim to help you. Ask who are they and what will they actually do?
Monday, January 28, 2008
Client Bill of Rights
In family law matters, did you know that clients have rights and responsibilities? The following is a statement that I insert in my family law retainer agreements, as required ethically in the state of New Jersey:
STATEMENT OF CLIENT'S RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES IN CIVIL FAMILY ACTIONS
A. Client Rights.
1. Clients have the right to have their attorneys diligently advocate their interests within the bounds of the law and legal ethics.
2. Clients have the right to have the fee agreement fully and completely explained prior to entering into any agreement for services.
3. Clients have the right to have a written retainer agreement describing the financial terms of the relationship between the client and the attorney.
4. Clients have the right to refuse to enter into any unacceptable fee arrangement or modification of a fee arrangement.
5. Clients have the right to be provided information as to the attorney(s) who will be primarily responsible for their matter and all other legal staff who will be working on the matter as well as information as to the costs for those individuals.
6. Clients have the right to be provided bills on a regular basis, itemized as to the charges and time spent on each activity.
7. Clients have the right to be informed of and be present at any court proceeding involving their case unless otherwise directed by the Court.
8. Clients have the right to be provided copies of all documents presented to the Court by any party in their matter unless otherwise ordered by the Court.
9. Clients have the right to be afforded reasonable access to their attorneys.
10. Clients have the right to make the financial decision as to whether, when and how to settle their cases and as to economic and other positions to be taken with respect to issues in the case.
B. Client Responsibilities.
1. Clients shall provide full and accurate information to their attorneys regarding their matter.
2. Clients shall be available to participate in a timely fashion regarding their matter and to respond reasonably to requests from their counsel.
3. Clients shall advise their attorneys promptly of any change in their lives that might reasonably be expected to affect the handling of their matter.
4. Clients shall pay for the legal services rendered on their behalf within the time period set forth in the retainer agreement.
5. Clients shall be required to review diligently all bills submitted by their attorneys and within a reasonable time to raise any objections regarding billing.
6. Clients shall not take any position in their matter for any improper purpose, such as to delay the proceeding or intentionally to increase the cost to other litigants.
7. Clients shall not seek to use their attorneys for any improper means.
8. Clients must recognize and be responsible for the costs associated with any action initiated or requested by the client.
9. Clients shall provide sufficient time for their attorneys to explain to them the financial costs and other ramifications of a potential action in their matter and reasonably to consider the advice of their attorneys.
A. Client Rights.
1. Clients have the right to have their attorneys diligently advocate their interests within the bounds of the law and legal ethics.
2. Clients have the right to have the fee agreement fully and completely explained prior to entering into any agreement for services.
3. Clients have the right to have a written retainer agreement describing the financial terms of the relationship between the client and the attorney.
4. Clients have the right to refuse to enter into any unacceptable fee arrangement or modification of a fee arrangement.
5. Clients have the right to be provided information as to the attorney(s) who will be primarily responsible for their matter and all other legal staff who will be working on the matter as well as information as to the costs for those individuals.
6. Clients have the right to be provided bills on a regular basis, itemized as to the charges and time spent on each activity.
7. Clients have the right to be informed of and be present at any court proceeding involving their case unless otherwise directed by the Court.
8. Clients have the right to be provided copies of all documents presented to the Court by any party in their matter unless otherwise ordered by the Court.
9. Clients have the right to be afforded reasonable access to their attorneys.
10. Clients have the right to make the financial decision as to whether, when and how to settle their cases and as to economic and other positions to be taken with respect to issues in the case.
B. Client Responsibilities.
1. Clients shall provide full and accurate information to their attorneys regarding their matter.
2. Clients shall be available to participate in a timely fashion regarding their matter and to respond reasonably to requests from their counsel.
3. Clients shall advise their attorneys promptly of any change in their lives that might reasonably be expected to affect the handling of their matter.
4. Clients shall pay for the legal services rendered on their behalf within the time period set forth in the retainer agreement.
5. Clients shall be required to review diligently all bills submitted by their attorneys and within a reasonable time to raise any objections regarding billing.
6. Clients shall not take any position in their matter for any improper purpose, such as to delay the proceeding or intentionally to increase the cost to other litigants.
7. Clients shall not seek to use their attorneys for any improper means.
8. Clients must recognize and be responsible for the costs associated with any action initiated or requested by the client.
9. Clients shall provide sufficient time for their attorneys to explain to them the financial costs and other ramifications of a potential action in their matter and reasonably to consider the advice of their attorneys.
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