Legal & Law News
Ahead of Veterans Day, San Antonio Military Divorce Attorney Explains What Happens to Retirement Pay, VA Disability, and Benefits in a Texas Divorce
As Veterans Day approaches on November 11, The Law Firm of Joseph Lassen, a San Antonio military divorce attorney and family law firm, is explaining how military retirement pay, VA disability compensation, and related benefits are treated when a service member's marriage ends. In a city that is home to Joint Base San Antonio, these questions affect many local families, and the answers come from both federal and Texas law. Can Military Retirement Pay Be Divided in a Texas Divorce? Joseph Lassen, San Antonio military divorce attorney and founder of The Law Firm of Joseph Lassen. Yes. Under the Uniformed Services Former Spouses' Protection Act, a court may treat a service member's disposable retired pay as property according to the law of the state where the case is heard. Texas is a community property state, and courts divide marital property in a manner that is just and right, which does not always mean an equal split. Federal law also caps the amount. The total disposable retired pay payable under all court orders may not exceed 50 percent, according to 10 U.S.C. § 1408. An experienced military divorce lawyer can explain how that limit, the length of the marriage, and the length of service affect a family's situation. What Is the 10/10 Rule for Direct Payment? The government will pay a former spouse's share of retired pay directly only when the marriage lasted at least 10 years during which the service member performed at least 10 years of creditable military service. This is commonly called the 10/10 rule. If a couple falls short, a court may still award a share of the pay, but the rule affects how the payment is made, so the order should be written with that in mind. Is VA Disability Pay Divisible in a Divorce? Generally, no. Some retirees give up part of their military retirement pay to receive VA disability compensation instead. Federal law doesn’t count that portion as retirement pay that can be divided in a divorce. The U.S. Supreme Court confirmed this in Howell v. Howell in 2017. In that case, a former spouse was awarded part of the veteran’s retirement pay, and the veteran later gave up some of it for VA disability pay. The Court held that a state court cannot order the veteran to make up the lost amount to the former spouse, no matter what the order is called. That makes the wording of a settlement or decree especially important. Families who plan for a possible waiver before the divorce is final are less likely to face a surprise later. What About the Survivor Benefit Plan and TRICARE? The Survivor Benefit Plan can provide a former spouse with continuing income after a retiree's death, but it does not happen automatically. A former spouse generally must request coverage within one year of the date of the court order, so the deadline should be calendared at the time of divorce. Health coverage is also at stake. According to TRICARE, a former spouse may keep TRICARE benefits when the marriage lasted at least 20 years, the service member served at least 20 years, and the marriage and service overlapped by at least 20 years. A former spouse loses TRICARE benefits after remarrying or enrolling in an employer-sponsored health plan and must apply for the Continued Health Care Benefit Program within 60 days of the divorce. A San Antonio divorce lawyer can help families understand which rules apply to them. What Should Military Families Do Before Filing? “Military retirement is often one of the largest assets a family has, and the rules for dividing it are not only Texas rules,” said Joseph Lassen, founder of The Law Firm of Joseph Lassen. “Families who learn the rules before the divorce is final avoid costly surprises.” Service members and spouses should gather their retirement and pay records, the marriage date, and the service dates, and speak with a family law attorney before signing any agreement. About The Law Firm of Joseph Lassen The Law Firm of Joseph Lassen is a San Antonio-based family law practice owned and led by attorney Joseph Lassen, who has practiced law for more than 20 years, beginning his legal career in New York before establishing his firm in San Antonio, Texas. Before becoming an attorney, Joseph Lassen served with the NYPD as a 9/11 first responder and later worked as a prosecutor, an experience he says gives him a distinct, front-line understanding of how the legal system operates from every angle. As a trusted San Antonio family law attorney, Joseph Lassen and his legal team handle a full range of family law matters, including divorce, high-asset divorce, military divorce, child custody, child support, alimony, and property division. The firm is known for combining aggressive courtroom advocacy with individualized attention, helping clients throughout San Antonio and surrounding communities — including Alamo Heights, Alamo Ranch, Stone Oak, Helotes, Boerne, Bulverde, New Braunfels, Schertz, Selma, and Castle Hills — navigate divorce and family law matters with clarity and confidence.
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- October 22, 2026Legal & Law
Claim or Lawsuit? León Law Firm Explains the Difference After a Texas Car Crash
After a car crash, most injured Texans never set foot in a courtroom. Their cases begin and end as insurance claims. A guide from The León Law Firm, P.C. explains where the line falls between a claim and a lawsuit, and when crossing it makes sense. The guide is available at https://theleonlawfirm.com/car-accident-lawsuit-in-texas/ This question affects many people each year. According to the Texas Department of Transportation’s 2025 Texas Motor Vehicle Traffic Crash Facts report, 244,534 people were injured in Texas traffic crashes in 2025. A claim and a lawsuit are different tools. A claim is a negotiation with an insurance adjuster, who decides what to offer. A lawsuit moves the dispute into a court, where both sides must exchange evidence, witnesses testify under oath and a judge sets the deadlines. The adjuster no longer controls the pace. The guide lists five situations in which a lawsuit often becomes the better path: the insurer denies liability the evidence supports, the offer falls well short of documented losses, the insurer stalls or stops responding, the two-year filing deadline is approaching without a fair resolution, or several drivers dispute who caused the crash. Fault plays a large role in that decision. Texas follows a proportionate responsibility system under Chapter 33 of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code. An injured person found more than 50 percent at fault recovers nothing, and anyone at 50 percent or less has the award reduced by that share. Insurers often try to shift more blame onto the injured driver, which is one reason fault disputes so often push claims into court. The firm’s breakdown of the types of car accidents in Texas explains how fault is usually assigned: https://theleonlawfirm.com/types-of-car-accidents/ Filing a lawsuit does not mean a case will go to trial. The guide notes that most Texas car accident cases settle, and many resolve at mediation, where a neutral third party guides negotiations after the evidence has been exchanged. Trial is the least common outcome, but its possibility gives the earlier stages their weight. A case can take anywhere from several months to well over a year, depending on the county, the number of parties and how hard liability is contested. In the guide, founding attorney Carlos A. León notes that cost is often what keeps people from filing. Under a contingency-fee arrangement, there is no upfront attorney fee, and case expenses are advanced and repaid only from a recovery. Most Texas personal injury lawsuits must be filed within two years under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003. Information about the firm’s car accident practice is available at https://theleonlawfirm.com/car-accident-lawyer/ About The León Law Firm, P.C.: The León Law Firm, P.C. is a bilingual personal injury firm based in Sugar Land, Texas, founded by attorney Carlos A. León. The firm represents injured clients throughout Texas on a contingency-fee basis, in both English and Spanish. Learn more at https://theleonlawfirm.com/about-law-firm/
- October 22, 2026Legal & Law
Houston IRS Trust Fund Recovery Penalty: Letter 1153 Guide For Business Owners
Houston-based Mixon Tax Law has published a guide to the Trust Fund Recovery Penalty, a federal provision that can hold owners and managers personally liable for payroll taxes their business failed to remit. Written by founder Phillip Mixon, a tax attorney and Certified Public Accountant, the guide outlines how that liability arises and what steps are available to those facing it. More details can be found at https://mixontaxlaw.com/trust-fund-recovery-penalty/ According to a 2024 report from the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, employment taxes and income tax withholding accounted for $3.18 trillion of the $4.9 trillion in total federal tax receipts collected in fiscal year 2022. A separate TIGTA review found that, as of December 2015, 1.4 million employers owed $45.6 billion in unpaid employment taxes, interest, and penalties. Balances like these are the reason the penalty exists. As the guide explains, income tax, Social Security, and Medicare withheld from employee paychecks never belong to the business. Those amounts are held in trust for the federal government, so when they go unpaid, the IRS can bypass the LLC or corporate structure and pursue collection directly from responsible individuals. The guide notes that this exposure can reach further than many owners expect. A responsible person is anyone with authority over which bills get paid, including a controller or a bookkeeper with check-signing authority. Intent to defraud is not required; using available funds to pay rent or suppliers instead of remitting withheld taxes is typically treated as willful conduct by the IRS. The guide’s later sections cover what happens once the IRS moves forward. Liability is joint and several: if three officers share responsibility for a $90,000 balance, each can be assessed the full $90,000, not a proportional share. The process formally begins with Letter 1153, which opens a 60-day window to appeal before the assessment becomes final and collection against personal assets can begin. “Most owners I see in these cases never meant to avoid their taxes,” Phillip Mixon said. “They were trying to keep the business running and paid everyone except the IRS. Many don’t realize the penalty survives a business closure and can’t be wiped out in bankruptcy, which is why that 60-day window matters.” Interested parties can find more information by visiting https://mixontaxlaw.com/trust-fund-recovery-penalty/
- October 21, 2026Legal & Law
Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Texas: León Law Firm Explains How Claims Get Paid
The León Law Firm, P.C. has published a guide to uninsured motorist coverage in Texas, explaining how drivers can recover when the person who hit them has no insurance or not enough of it. The guide is available at https://theleonlawfirm.com/uninsured-motorists/ This issue affects many Texans. According to the Texas Department of Transportation’s 2025 Texas Motor Vehicle Traffic Crash Facts report, 244,534 people were injured in Texas traffic crashes in 2025. The Insurance Research Council estimates that roughly one in seven U.S. drivers is uninsured, which means many injured drivers may have to rely on their own coverage to be paid. Two related coverages fill that gap. Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage applies when the at-fault driver has no insurance, is covered by an insurer that cannot pay or flees the scene without being identified. Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage applies when the at-fault driver has insurance, but not enough to cover the injuries. That shortfall happens more often than many drivers expect. Texas only requires liability limits of $30,000 per person, $60,000 per accident and $25,000 for property damage under Texas Transportation Code § 601.072. A serious injury can quickly exceed $30,000. The guide walks through an example in which an injured driver has $120,000 in damages, the at-fault driver carries $30,000 in coverage and the injured driver’s own UIM policy covers the remaining $90,000. Many Texans have UM and UIM coverage without realizing it. Under Texas Insurance Code § 1952.101, insurers must include it in auto policies unless a named insured rejects it in writing. A rejection made once is not automatically reversed at renewal. The guide also covers the rules that surprise people most. Hit-and-run claims generally require actual physical contact with the unknown vehicle, along with a police report. Coverage limits within a single policy cannot be stacked for one accident. And a UIM insurer generally has no duty to pay until the other driver’s fault and the injured person’s damages are established, a rule set out by the Texas Supreme Court in Brainard v. Trinity Universal Insurance Co. In the guide, founding attorney Carlos A. León advises injured drivers to notify their own insurer promptly, get the at-fault driver’s policy limits in writing and avoid settling with the other driver’s insurer without written consent from their own company. Settling too early can put the UM or UIM claim at risk. Drivers unsure of what to do right after a crash can review the firm’s step-by-step guide: https://theleonlawfirm.com/what-to-do-if-you-are-in-a-car-accident/ The firm generally recommends treating two years from the date of the crash as the working deadline for these claims, since policy notice requirements are often shorter. Information about the firm’s car accident practice is available at https://theleonlawfirm.com/car-accident-lawyer/ About The León Law Firm, P.C.: The León Law Firm, P.C. is a bilingual personal injury firm based in Sugar Land, Texas, founded by attorney Carlos A. León. The firm represents injured clients throughout Texas on a contingency-fee basis, in both English and Spanish. Learn more at https://theleonlawfirm.com/about-law-firm/
- October 21, 2026Legal & Law
Ace Apostille UK Ltd and Westminster Legalisation Services Highlight Document Errors Putting Overseas Plans at Risk
Ace Apostille UK Ltd, a UK-based document apostille and legalisation service provider, and Westminster Legalisation Services Ltd, a UK document legalisation specialist, are highlighting recurring document preparation mistakes that can delay or disrupt overseas weddings, visa applications, study plans and international employment, warning that document preparation can become a problem when requirements are checked too late, or paperwork is obtained too early to meet the rules of the receiving authority. “An overseas wedding, visa appointment or new job can depend on just one document. Checking the requirements early gives you time to resolve problems before they put those plans at risk. I have seen several UK couples miss their wedding abroad due to last-minute preparations,” said Emerson De Queiroz Barbosa, Managing Director of Westminster Legalisation Services Ltd. Document Errors Can Disrupt Overseas Applications Before They Begin Requirements vary according to the country, authority and purpose for which a document will be used. Ace Apostille UK Ltd advises applicants to establish exactly which document is required, whether it must be an original or certified copy, and whether an apostille or further legalisation is needed before submitting it overseas. Once these requirements have been confirmed, applicants can order an apostille online through Ace Apostille UK Ltd for eligible documents. Birth certificates are one example of documents that may require an apostille. A person marrying overseas, applying for citizenship or completing another international process may be asked to provide an apostilled certificate, but the exact requirements can differ. Ace Apostille UK Ltd explains the process and requirements for a birth certificate apostille . An apostille confirms the authenticity of a signature or seal on an eligible public document so that it can be presented for official use overseas. In the UK, apostilles are issued through the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Legalisation Office. Poor Timing Can Put Weddings, Visas and Overseas Jobs at Risk Timing can be important because obtaining the underlying document and having it legalised are separate stages. Current GOV.UK legalisation guidance says its standard paper-based apostille service usually takes up to 25 working days, excluding postage or courier time, while a next-working-day service is available through registered businesses. Ace Apostille UK Ltd is competitively priced and charges £79 including VAT for one document, with paper apostille processing taking one working day for eligible submissions. Westminster Legalisation Services Ltd charges £80 plus VAT per document, also offering one-working-day processing, with bulk discounts available for multiple documents. These processing times apply to eligible, correctly prepared documents and exclude postage, delivery and any additional certification or legalisation requirements. Applicants should check whether the overseas authority places its own age limit on a document before ordering it too far in advance. “Plan ahead, but time your paperwork carefully. Some authorities require documents issued within the last three months, while an ACRO Police Certificate can take up to 30 days to be issued. Check the requirements carefully before deciding when to apply,” said Gil Pereira, Head of Operations at Ace Apostille UK Ltd. The two companies say many avoidable problems begin before a document is even submitted for legalisation, making it important to establish what the receiving authority requires before ordering certificates, arranging certification or sending documents for legalisation. Eligibility Problems Can Leave Documents Unready for Legalisation Not every document can be legalised in its existing form. GOV.UK advises applicants to check whether a document is eligible and whether the receiving authority requires a paper apostille or, where available, an e-Apostille. Westminster Legalisation Services Ltd provides UK apostille and document legalisation services for private clients, businesses, notaries, law firms and agencies, including cases where documents need to be reviewed before submission. “People need a clear answer: what documents to send, what it will cost and when they will be ready. Good guidance and careful document checks help make a complicated process manageable,” said Jaqueline Bonjovani, Office Manager at Westminster Legalisation Services Ltd. For people with fixed overseas dates, such as weddings, visa appointments, university enrolment or employment start dates, both companies advise working backwards from the deadline and allowing time to correct document problems if they arise. About Westminster Legalisation Services Ltd Westminster Legalisation Services Ltd operates from London and Milton Keynes, supporting private clients, notaries, law firms, agencies and businesses. It provides tailored quotations following document review by a qualified lawyer. SME News recognised the company in its 2026 Legal Awards with Legalisation Agent of the Year, London, and the Client Service Excellence Award.
- October 21, 2026Legal & Law
Beverly West Law Launches Personal Injury Firm in California and Nevada
Beverly West Law, APC, led by founder and managing attorney Aaron Setareh, announces the continued growth of its personal injury practice across California and Nevada. Based in Beverly Hills, the firm combines the resources of a large practice with personalized legal representation, direct attorney access, thorough case investigations, and dedicated client advocacy. From Large-Firm Experience to an Independent Practice Before founding Beverly West Law, Aaron Setareh worked at one of California's largest personal injury law firms, where he handled complex injury claims and guided clients through demanding legal matters. That experience shaped his understanding of how substantial cases are prepared, negotiated, and resolved. It also revealed a gap he wanted to address. Setareh sought to offer clients sophisticated representation without the impersonal structure that can accompany high-volume practices. Motivated by a commitment to client-first advocacy, he founded Beverly West Law to deliver a different experience. Rather than treating clients as case numbers or moving them between departments, the firm provides each person with direct access to their attorney and consistent, individualized attention. Setareh is dual-licensed in California and Nevada, allowing him to serve clients across both states with the same dedication and urgency. "At Beverly West Law, clients receive the experience and resources needed to handle substantial cases, along with the personal attention and direct attorney access of a boutique firm," said Setareh. A Foundation Built on Academic Distinction Setareh graduated summa cum laude with College Honors from UCLA before attending Loyola Law School, where he specialized in litigation practice. His academic record included First Honors in Fundamentals of Solo Litigation and Honors in Civil Litigation and Advocacy. Summa cum laude is a Latin distinction meaning "with highest honor," reserved for graduates who achieve the top tier of academic performance. That academic foundation translated into a litigation approach centered on preparation and strategy. Setareh applies the same rigor to every matter, whether a case involves catastrophic injuries and significant damages or difficult questions of liability and identification. The firm approaches each claim with a clear strategy designed to achieve the best possible outcome for the client. Persistence That Uncovers Overlooked Evidence One matter illustrates the resourcefulness at the center of the firm's practice. An injured cyclist had been turned away by several firms following a hit-and-run collision because the driver could not be identified. Setareh took the case and obtained surveillance footage from a nearby business. The license plate in the video was unreadable, which would have ended most investigations. Reviewing the footage closely, Setareh noticed the driver holding dry cleaning. Acting on that single detail, he sent a private investigator to nearby dry cleaners. That step ultimately led to the identification of the driver. The firm secured the available policy limits and full compensation for the client's damaged bicycle and other property. "The smallest detail can change the course of a case. Our job is to notice what others may have missed," said Setareh. He added that the example is not meant to suggest the firm handles only smaller matters. Instead, it demonstrates the creativity and determination the firm brings to cases of every size. Beverly West Law has recovered significant settlements for seriously injured clients while continuing to give attention to deserving cases that larger firms may decline. "Some of the most deserving clients are turned away because their cases are difficult. Those are often the people who need an attorney willing to look closer and keep searching for answers," said Setareh. Representation Measured by More Than Value While the firm has obtained substantial recoveries, Setareh emphasizes that the significance of a case is not determined solely by its potential value. Personal injury law, broadly defined, addresses harm caused to individuals through the negligence or wrongful conduct of others, including motor vehicle collisions and related incidents. Beverly West Law approaches each of these matters with the same level of preparation and urgency. "We have recovered significant settlements for seriously injured clients, but we never measure the importance of a case solely by its potential value. Every client deserves serious representation," said Setareh. He described the firm's broader purpose in terms that extend beyond financial outcomes. "Success can mean securing a substantial recovery for a seriously injured client, but it also means standing up for someone who otherwise may not have had a voice," said Setareh. Client Experiences Reflect the Firm's Approach Clients have consistently pointed to the firm's responsiveness and personal engagement. In one instance, a client whose mother was involved in a car accident noted that Setareh prioritized her medical treatment and physical therapy before addressing other aspects of the claim. The client described how the firm rejected inadequate settlement offers and continued advocating until securing a meaningful resolution that accounted for the injuries, pain, and suffering involved. Other clients have highlighted the direct communication that defines the practice. One described how Setareh personally placed the first call rather than delegating to an intake assistant, and remained available throughout the process. Another client, balancing work and school while recovering from an accident, credited the firm with lifting a significant burden by handling the matter with diligence and integrity. These accounts reflect the firm's stated philosophy. Beverly West Law is built on the belief that every client deserves an attorney who will investigate thoroughly, act with urgency, and continue advocating when the answer is not immediately apparent. Additional information about the firm and its client feedback is available through its profiles on Avvo , FindLaw , and Martindale . Combining Compassion With Strategy The firm's distinguishing characteristic is the combination of large-firm capability and genuinely personal representation. Clients are informed, protected, and supported during what is often one of the most difficult periods of their lives. Every case is approached with compassion, urgency, and a defined plan. Setareh shares insights and updates about the firm's work through its social media channels, including Instagram , TikTok , Facebook , and YouTube . Through these platforms and its direct client relationships, the firm continues to emphasize accessibility and transparency. Business inquiries may be directed to [email protected] . "At Beverly West Law, it is not just about maximizing compensation. It is about helping people feel protected, informed, and confident," said Setareh. Beverly West Law Earns Prestigious 2026 Recognition Beverly West Law, APC, has been recognized by Best of Best Awards as the Best Law Firm in Los Angeles of 2026 , honoring its personalized client service, innovative legal strategies, and commitment to exceptional representation. Led by Aaron Setareh, the firm combines extensive litigation experience with the attentive care of a boutique practice. Explore its legal services and learn more about this prestigious recognition. About Beverly West Law, APC Beverly West Law, APC, is a personal injury law firm based in Beverly Hills, California, founded by managing attorney Aaron Setareh. Dual-licensed in California and Nevada, the firm combines large-firm experience with boutique-level attention, offering clients direct attorney access, thorough investigation, and persistent advocacy. The firm handles injury claims of all sizes with a commitment to results, personal service, and genuine client care.
- October 21, 2026Legal & Law
Bronx Personal Injury Law Firm Stillman & Stillman Expands Outreach to Pelham Gardens Residents
Stillman & Stillman, P.C., a Bronx-based personal injury law firm established in 1992, is proud to announce its continued service to residents of Pelham Gardens and the surrounding East Bronx. With decades of experience representing injured New Yorkers, the firm remains committed to providing accessible, client-focused legal counsel to individuals and families facing the aftermath of serious accidents and negligence-related injuries. Located on East Tremont Avenue in the Bronx, Stillman & Stillman, P.C. has long represented clients across borough neighborhoods, and its outreach to Pelham Gardens reflects the firm’s ongoing mission to ensure local residents have access to experienced legal support close to home. From motor vehicle accidents and unsafe property claims to construction injuries and medical negligence matters, the firm offers comprehensive representation backed by years of courtroom experience and settlement success. “Pelham Gardens is a strong residential community with families, workers, commuters, and longtime Bronx residents who deserve dependable legal guidance when something goes wrong,” said Jeffrey Stillman, Esq., founder of Stillman & Stillman, P.C. “When a serious accident disrupts someone’s health, livelihood, or peace of mind, our role is to step in, protect their rights, and pursue the compensation available under New York law.” Legal Representation for a Wide Range of Injury Claims Residents of Pelham Gardens may encounter injury risks in many forms, from collisions on Pelham Parkway and nearby thoroughfares to slips and falls on hazardous premises or accidents connected to construction activity in the surrounding area. Stillman & Stillman, P.C. represents clients in a broad range of personal injury and related litigation matters, including: Motor Vehicle Accidents — The firm handles claims involving car accidents, truck crashes, pedestrian knockdowns, bicycle accidents, rideshare incidents, and motorcycle collisions. The attorneys help clients navigate New York’s insurance framework while investigating fault and seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost earnings, and pain and suffering. Premises Liability and Slip-and-Fall Accidents — Property owners have a duty to maintain reasonably safe conditions. When unsafe stairwells, broken walkways, wet floors, poor lighting, defective handrails, or other hazards lead to injury, the firm works to hold responsible parties accountable. Construction Accidents — Construction workers in New York are protected by important labor laws, including statutes that may apply when workers suffer injuries from falls, falling objects, electrical hazards, or unsafe site conditions. Stillman & Stillman, P.C. handles complex construction accident litigation involving serious and catastrophic injuries. Wrongful Death — When negligence leads to the loss of a loved one, surviving family members may have the right to seek financial recovery. The firm approaches wrongful death matters with compassion while pursuing accountability through the legal process. Nursing Home Neglect and Abuse — Elderly residents and their families deserve answers when poor supervision, inadequate staffing, neglect, or abuse causes avoidable harm in a care facility. Dog Bites and Animal Attacks — Dog attack injuries may require extensive medical treatment and can leave lasting physical and emotional effects. The firm represents victims seeking compensation for these serious incidents. Product Liability — Consumers injured by dangerous or defective products may have claims against manufacturers, distributors, or other responsible parties. The firm investigates whether a product defect contributed to a client’s injuries. Civil Rights Matters — In addition to personal injury litigation, the firm also handles certain civil rights claims, including police brutality and sexual harassment matters involving serious misconduct. A Local Firm with Deep Bronx Roots Stillman & Stillman, P.C. was established in 1992 and has since developed a strong reputation for representing plaintiffs throughout the Bronx and greater New York City. The firm’s attorneys focus exclusively on advocating for injured individuals and families. That plaintiff-side focus is central to the firm’s identity and longstanding approach to litigation. The legal team includes Jeffrey Stillman, Esq., Robert Birnbaum, Esq., Adam Raclaw, Esq., and Howard Trepp, Esq., each of whom brings substantial experience in personal injury law, litigation strategy, negotiation, and trial preparation. Together, the attorneys have represented clients in cases involving substantial medical injuries, disputed liability, and complex damages. Because the firm is based in the Bronx and regularly handles cases in local courts, its attorneys bring a practical understanding of the legal landscape facing Bronx residents. That familiarity can be especially valuable to clients who want a legal team that understands the borough, its neighborhoods, and the challenges injury victims often face after an accident. Serving Pelham Gardens Residents with Accessibility and Personal Attention Pelham Gardens is a neighborhood defined by residential blocks, active roadways, apartment buildings, small businesses, and easy access to the broader East Bronx. Like many communities in the area, it is home to working families, older adults, commuters, and residents who depend on safe roads, well-maintained properties, and responsible conduct from others. When those expectations are not met, the consequences can be severe. Stillman & Stillman, P.C. aims to make the legal process more approachable for injury victims during what is often one of the most stressful times in their lives. The firm offers free consultations and handles cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning clients do not pay attorney’s fees unless compensation is recovered on their behalf. To make representation more accessible, the firm is available to meet clients in a variety of settings, including at the office, by phone, in hospitals, and in some cases at home. This flexibility is particularly important for individuals whose injuries limit travel or mobility. Spanish-speaking assistance is also available for clients and families who prefer to communicate in Spanish. Focused on Protecting the Rights of Injury Victims After a serious accident, injured individuals often find themselves dealing with mounting medical bills, missed work, physical pain, and uncertainty about what comes next. At the same time, insurance carriers and defence representatives may begin investigating the claim immediately. Stillman & Stillman, P.C. works to level that playing field by conducting prompt investigations, preserving evidence, communicating with insurers, and building claims designed to reflect the full impact of an injury. The firm encourages accident victims in Pelham Gardens to seek legal advice as early as possible, particularly because different types of claims may involve strict filing deadlines and notice requirements under New York law. Prompt action can also help preserve records, witness information, and other evidence that may become harder to obtain with time. Free Consultations Available for Pelham Gardens Injury Victims Residents of Pelham Gardens who have been injured in car accidents, falls, construction incidents, medical negligence events, slip & Fall or other negligence-related situations are invited to contact Stillman & Stillman, P.C. for a free consultation. The firm is available to discuss legal options, answer questions, and evaluate whether a viable claim may exist. About Stillman & Stillman, P.C. Stillman & Stillman, P.C. is a Bronx personal injury law firm located at 2622 E Tremont Avenue, Bronx, New York 10461. Established in 1992, the firm represents plaintiffs in a wide range of matters, including motor vehicle accidents, premises liability cases, construction accidents, wrongful death, nursing home neglect, dog bites, product liability, police brutality, and sexual harassment claims.
- October 21, 2026Legal & Law
My Estate-Plan: Oceanside Estate Planning Attorney Shares Year-End Checklist on Gift Limits, Trust Funding, and Medi-Cal's Returning Asset Limit
As 2026 draws to a close, Oceanside estate planning attorney William "Dan" Powell of My Estate-Plan is encouraging California families to review their plans before December 31. Three items deserve a second look: the annual gift tax exclusion, which resets each calendar year; whether a trust has actually been funded; and the Medi-Cal asset limit, which returned on January 1, 2026, and is now being applied as enrolled seniors reach their annual renewals. Does the $19,000 Gift Tax Exclusion Reset at the End of the Year? William “Dan” Powell, estate planning attorney and founder of My Estate-Plan in Oceanside, encourages California families to review their estate plans before December 31. Yes. The annual gift tax exclusion is $19,000 per recipient for 2026, or $38,000 for a married couple splitting gifts, and an unused amount does not carry into the next year. Gifts within the exclusion do not count against the federal lifetime estate and gift tax exemption, which is $15 million per person for 2026. California has no state estate or inheritance tax, so for most families the federal estate tax is not the main reason to plan. The more common costs are probate and the delay and public record that come with it. Confirming a Trust Is Funded A living trust controls only the assets titled in its name. A home, account, or business interest left in an individual's name can still go through probate even when a trust exists. A living trust attorney can confirm that deeds, account titles, and beneficiary designations match the plan, particularly after a purchase, a refinance, or a new account. The stakes are financial. California sets probate attorney fees by statute as a percentage of the estate's gross value, not its equity: 4 percent of the first $100,000, 3 percent of the next $100,000, 2 percent of the next $800,000, and smaller percentages above that. The state did expand its probate shortcuts in April 2025, allowing up to $208,850 in personal property to pass by affidavit and a primary residence worth up to $750,000 to use a simplified petition. Both limits are based on gross value, and a more valuable home generally still goes through full probate. “People think of an estate plan as something you sign and file away,” said William "Dan" Powell, estate planning attorney and founder of My Estate-Plan. “But a plan only works if the paperwork still matches the assets and the rules. A deed that was never changed, or a savings balance that quietly crosses a threshold, can undo years of good intentions.” What Does the Returning Medi-Cal Asset Limit Mean for Families? Since January 1, 2026, California has counted assets again for Medi-Cal programs that serve older adults, people with disabilities, and long-term care. Under AB 116, the limit is $130,000 for an individual and $195,000 for a couple, plus $65,000 for each additional household member. Current enrollees are tested at their first annual renewal on or after January 1, and someone over the limit at renewal can lose coverage. A primary residence is generally exempt, but savings and investment accounts count, and holding assets in a revocable living trust does not shelter them from the test. A 30-month look-back can apply to transfers made to qualify for nursing-facility coverage. An asset protection lawyer can explain which tools, such as irrevocable trusts, may apply to a particular family, and why that planning has to happen before a need arises. Which Documents Should Be Updated After a Life Change? Marriage, divorce, a birth, a death, a move, or a new business or property can all change what a plan should say. William "Dan" Powell recommends confirming that the agents named in a power of attorney and advance health care directive are still the right people. Families with a loved one who has a disability should also confirm that their plan protects eligibility for public benefits, and a special needs trust attorney can structure those arrangements so an inheritance does not interrupt them. Anyone in Oceanside or San Diego County searching for an estate planning attorney near me can contact My Estate-Plan. About My Estate-Plan My Estate-Plan is an Oceanside estate planning law firm dedicated to helping individuals and families protect their assets, provide for their loved ones, and plan confidently for the future. The firm offers a full range of estate planning services, including last wills and testaments, revocable and irrevocable trusts, powers of attorney, healthcare directives, trust administration, probate guidance, and estate plan reviews and updates. My Estate-Plan is committed to providing clear, personalized legal counsel to clients throughout San Diego County, guiding them through every stage of the estate planning process with compassion and professionalism.
- October 20, 2026Legal & Law
Dog Bite Liability in Texas: León Law Firm Explains How Owners Are Held Liable
The León Law Firm, P.C. has published a guide explaining dog bite liability in Texas, including the legal paths injured people can use to hold an owner responsible. The guide is available at https://theleonlawfirm.com/whos-liable-for-a-dog-bite-in-texas-owner-liability-explained/ Insurers feel the cost, too. Dog bites and other dog-related injuries led to 22,658 insurance claims across the country in 2024, totaling $1.57 billion, according to figures released by the Insurance Information Institute and State Farm. The typical claim came to $69,272. Texas was one of the three states with the most claims, along with California and Florida. Unlike some states, Texas has no single dog bite statute that automatically makes an owner liable. Instead, liability usually rests on rules developed by Texas courts, along with a separate statutory framework for dogs that have already been officially designated as dangerous. Many people assume a dog gets one free bite. Texas law doesn't work that way. Under what courts call the scienter rule, which traces back to the Texas Supreme Court’s 1974 ruling in Marshall v. Ranne, an owner can be held strictly liable if the owner knew, or had reason to know, the dog was dangerous. A dog that had lunged at neighbors or been reported to animal control could meet that standard even if it had never bitten anyone. When the rule applies, the injured person does not have to prove the owner was careless. Some attacks come from dogs with no history at all. A claim can still be built on negligence in those cases, and the question becomes whether the owner acted reasonably. Letting a dog roam in violation of a city leash ordinance, leaving a gate unlatched or brushing off growling and other warning signs are the kinds of facts that can show an owner fell short. The guide also explains Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 822, Subchapter D, which applies once a dog has made an unprovoked attack causing serious bodily injury and is designated dangerous. Owners of those dogs must register the animal with local animal control, keep it leashed or in a secure enclosure and carry liability insurance or show financial responsibility. An owner who ignores those requirements is on clear legal notice of the danger. In the guide, founding attorney Carlos A. León recommends that bite victims get medical treatment first, then document the injury and the scene with photos, collect the owner’s contact and insurance information, gather witness names and request a copy of any animal control report. The firm represents dog bite victims across Texas. More information is available at https://theleonlawfirm.com/dog-bites/ Dog bite claims are treated as personal injury claims and generally must be filed within two years. The firm’s guide to Texas filing deadlines is available at https://theleonlawfirm.com/how-long-do-you-have-to-file-a-personal-injury-claim-in-texas/ About The León Law Firm, P.C.: The León Law Firm, P.C. is a bilingual personal injury firm based in Sugar Land, Texas, founded by attorney Carlos A. León. The firm represents injured clients throughout Texas on a contingency-fee basis, in both English and Spanish. Learn more at https://theleonlawfirm.com/about-law-firm/
- October 20, 2026Legal & Law
Leading Family Law Attorney Francis King Discusses Why Prenuptial Agreements Are Worth Considering - Nashville, TN
In a recent interview, Francis King, founder of the Law Offices of Francis King in Nashville, TN, shared his thoughts on prenuptial agreements and why more couples should give them serious consideration. For more information please visit https://franciskinglaw.com "There's this idea that asking for a prenup means you're already planning to fail, and honestly that reputation is unfair," King said. "A prenuptial agreement can enable a couple to address financial issues, both as to how they will be handled during their marriage and in the event of a divorce or death, and at a time when both parties are calm and on good terms." King explained that these agreements are especially useful for people entering a marriage with existing assets that they want to protect. "If you own a company or you've built up savings before the wedding, a prenup lets you nail down in advance what stays separate, thereby avoiding potential dispute down the road," he said. "The same goes for anyone who wants to protect an inheritance for their kids. Sorting that out early is far kinder to everyone than fighting about it later." King added, “A prenup can also be fashioned so as to address other issues, such as alimony, estate planning and whether there should be exceptions or changes to what the law might otherwise provide if the parties divorce or one of them dies.” King emphasised that, for an agreement to be enforceable in Tennessee, it has to be properly prepared and supported by “consideration” (meaning that it must contain provisions beneficial to both parties. If a prenup is too one-sided, it might be challenged successfully in court. "Both parties need to fully disclose what they own and what they owe. No hiding accounts," King explained. "Each person should have their own attorney, and nobody should feel pressured or rushed into signing the night before the ceremony. A rushed prenup is a weak prenup." King added that a well written agreement can actually strengthen a relationship rather than strain it. "When you talk openly about finances before the wedding, you learn how your partner thinks about money," he said. "That's one of the biggest sources of conflict in any marriage, so getting ahead of it is a healthy thing, not a cynical one." King concluded, "Nobody gets married expecting it to end. But planning responsibly isn't the same as expecting the worst. A prenup is simply a way of protecting each other and taking the guesswork out of a difficult situation you both hope never comes." Source: http://RecommendedExperts.biz
- October 19, 2026Legal & Law
What to Do After a Car Accident in Texas: León Law Firm Lists 10 Steps
The León Law Firm, P.C. has published a 10-step guide explaining what to do after a car accident in Texas, from the first minutes at the scene through the two-year filing deadline. The guide is available at https://theleonlawfirm.com/what-to-do-if-you-are-in-a-car-accident/ The guidance arrives as crash injuries remain common across the state. According to the Texas Department of Transportation’s 2025 Texas Motor Vehicle Traffic Crash Facts report, 244,534 people were injured in Texas traffic crashes in 2025. The guide begins with safety. Drivers are advised to stop, check everyone for injuries and call 911 when someone is hurt, the road is blocked, a vehicle cannot be driven or another driver appears impaired. Under Texas Transportation Code § 550.022, vehicles involved in a crash with only property damage may be moved to a frontage road, cross street or other safe location when they can be driven safely. Texas law also places specific duties on every driver involved in a crash. Under § 550.021, a driver must stop and remain at the scene when someone is injured or killed, and leaving can be a felony when a crash causes death or serious bodily injury. Under § 550.023, drivers must exchange names, addresses, vehicle registration and liability insurance information, and provide reasonable assistance to anyone injured. Section 550.026 requires immediate notice to police when a crash injures or kills someone or leaves a vehicle unable to be driven. The guide also explains how to obtain the official crash report. Officers must file the Texas Peace Officer’s Crash Report, known as the CR-3, within 10 days under § 550.062, and drivers can order copies through TxDOT’s online system once the report is available. Only the reporting officer can change a material fact in the report, although others may submit a written supplement. In the guide, founding attorney Carlos A. León advises drivers to stick to facts at the scene, avoid guessing about fault and avoid saying they are “fine” before a medical evaluation. He also recommends seeing a doctor the same day, even without symptoms, because some injuries appear later and gaps in treatment can be used to challenge a claim. Evidence preservation is another focus. The guide lists dashcam footage, vehicle event data, nearby surveillance video, 911 recordings and police body-camera footage as sources that can disappear if no one requests them quickly. Readers who want to understand how that evidence is used to assign fault can review the firm’s breakdown of the types of car accidents in Texas: https://theleonlawfirm.com/types-of-car-accidents/ Most Texas personal injury lawsuits must be filed within two years under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003, and claims involving a government vehicle generally require written notice within six months. The firm’s car accident practice handles these claims across Texas: https://theleonlawfirm.com/car-accident-lawyer/ The León Law Firm plans to continue publishing plain-language guides on Texas traffic and injury law in English and Spanish. About The León Law Firm, P.C.: The León Law Firm, P.C. is a bilingual personal injury firm based in Sugar Land, Texas, founded by attorney Carlos A. León. The firm represents injured clients throughout Texas on a contingency-fee basis, in both English and Spanish. Learn more at https://theleonlawfirm.com/about-law-firm/
- October 19, 2026Legal & Law
Texas Firm Publishes Checklist for Choosing a Cost Segregation Company
Commercial property owners shopping for a cost segregation study usually start with a search, and the search usually returns a ranked list. The Ambrose Group, a Texas appraisal, property tax and cost segregation firm, argues that those lists rarely measure what matters. Its new guide, written by Executive Vice President Daniel Ambrose, MAI, replaces the ranking with a checklist owners can apply to any firm. The guide is available at https://theambrosegroup.com/best-cost-segregation-companies/ on the company website. “Most published rankings score things like website claims, years in business, or review counts, not the actual work product,” Ambrose writes. The guide names no competitors and scores no one. Instead, it points owners to the IRS’s own Cost Segregation Audit Techniques Guide, Publication 5653, as the standard a study should be built to survive. The first item on the checklist is the site visit. According to the guide, the IRS audit guide recommends a field inspection for every quality study and considers it critical when construction drawings are limited or missing. A quote that leaves out the inspection is likely based on photos or assumptions. The guide also looks at how firms charge. Some providers take a percentage of the tax benefit they find, and the IRS guide treats that pricing model as a caution flag. “A flat fee, scoped to the property and the records, doesn’t carry that incentive,” Ambrose writes. Land value is another point the guide asks owners to check. Land cannot be depreciated, so it has to be removed from the building’s basis before any other classification is done. According to the guide, some firms use a flat percentage for this step or take the number from the appraisal district. Owners are also advised to request a sample report and compare it with the 13 quality elements in Chapter 4 of Publication 5653. The last two checks cover the credential behind the work and whether the firm coordinates with the owner’s CPA. The guide also asks whether a firm will ever turn down a study. Federal tax law changed in July 2025, when the One Big Beautiful Bill Act made 100% bonus depreciation permanent for qualifying property acquired after January 19, 2025. The guide says that for many properties, a study can now make financial sense at roughly $500,000 of building basis. More owners now qualify, but a study is not always the right choice. An owner who plans to sell within one or two years may lose part of the benefit to depreciation recapture. The guide closes by applying the same checklist to The Ambrose Group itself, describing its in-house construction engineer, routine site inspections and practice of telling owners when a study is not worth the fee. Owners can find a full walkthrough of how a study is built, from engineering review to final report, at https://theambrosegroup.com/cost-segregation-study-guide/ and details on the firm’s services at https://theambrosegroup.com/cost-segregation-consultants/ on its site. About The Ambrose Group: The Ambrose Group is a Texas real estate consulting firm based in Jersey Village that has provided appraisal, property tax consulting, cost segregation and brokerage services since 1994. The company profile at https://theambrosegroup.com/about-real-estate-company/ covers its history and team.
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