There are few things that demonstrate trust and respect quite like being named the estate executor for a close friend or relative. This person is placing his or her faith in you to make sure that their final wishes are fulfilled, especially with respect to the distribution of estate funds to their...
Pour-Over Wills and Living Trusts: A Comprehensive Estate Planning Strategy
If you are like most people here in Pennsylvania, you are going to be concerned about providing for your loved ones after you are gone. This is why estate planning is so crucial. You are going to want to make sure your estate has been set up in such a way that...
What Businesses Should Know About Intellectual Property Agreements
Intellectual property is intangible assets that can often be the most valuable thing owned by a business. Whether it is the trademark for a brand name or a device that has been patented, owning or having access to intellectual property can give your business a competitive edge. This is vital, especially if...
Franchise Agreements: Key Terms and Negotiation Strategies
Franchises are a great way for a small business person or entrepreneur to build a path toward a lucrative career. With a franchise, you purchase the right to use the branding and intellectual property of an established business right here in your own neighborhood. Whether you are looking at opening a McDonald’s,...
Why You Should Avoid DIY Estate Planning
America has been undergoing a DIY craze where folks feel empowered to “do it yourself,” whether it comes to making fancy French pastries or major home improvements. But when it comes to estate planning, you should definitely think twice. This is not like going to Lowes or The Home Depot and asking...
Understanding Qualified Personal Residence Trusts (QPRTs)
Transfer of estate assets can be complex. They can also incur taxes for your heirs, especially if the value of the assets are significant. This is especially true of residences here in Pittsburgh, where real estate prices have gone up quickly over the last two decades. Individuals who have more than one...
What Happens When You Die Without an Estate Plan?
Many people have taken steps to provide for their loved ones for when they are no longer here. Whether they set up a will or a trust, they have taken estate planning steps to make sure that issues are addressed to ensure the payment of expenses and the smooth transfer of assets...
Comparing Joint Ventures and Strategic Alliances: Which is Right for Your Business?
Many times, businesses find that they need something they cannot provide in house and see the benefits of collaborating with another entity. This may be because the other business owns a process or component needed to produce a certain product, or has a sales and marketing network in a market that their...
The Pros and Cons of Forming a Professional Corporation in Pennsylvania
Many people engaged in professional practices simply hang out a shingle, doing business under their own name. While this might seem fine for solo practitioner attorneys, accountants, and physicians, it is not an ideal situation. They may be missing out on many of the benefits afforded by forming a professional corporation here...
Understanding Commercial Real Estate Leases
Negotiating a commercial real estate lease is often one of the most critical aspects of starting or operating a business. Knowing what goes into a commercial lease and how to negotiate favorable terms can help your business achieve operational success.
Types of Commercial Real Estate Lease