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State Reduces Number of Drunk-Driving Convictions Required for License Forfeiture
In New York and around the country, state legislatures continue to seek ways to reduce the incidence of driving while intoxicated. Penalties for motorists who operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs have increased over time, and now there is a new focus on multiple offenders. A law recently enacted here makes […]
May 5, 2025 Posted in Criminal Law Tagged criminal law, drunk driving, license Comments Off on State Reduces Number of Drunk-Driving Convictions Required for License Forfeiture
New York Launches Simplified Process for Uncontested Joint Divorces
For many years, New York was the last state that would not allow no-fault divorce. This forced many husbands and wives to make dubious allegations of misconduct against their spouses even when the truth was that it was simply for the best that the parties go their separate ways. Finally, in 2010, the state authorized […]
April 28, 2025 Posted in Family Law Tagged divorce, joint, uncontested Comments Off on New York Launches Simplified Process for Uncontested Joint Divorces
Injuries Frequently Caused by Wintertime Accidents
Wintertime brings an increased risk of slips and falls due to icy and snowy conditions, often leading to serious injuries. Understanding these common injuries and the importance of prompt medical evaluation and legal consultation is crucial for effective recovery and potential compensation. The following are some of the most common injuries suffered in winter accidents: […]
March 5, 2025 Posted in Personal Injury Tagged accidents, compensation, winter Comments Off on Injuries Frequently Caused by Wintertime Accidents
Bringing Up the Topic of Estate Planning With Your Parents
Talking to parents about estate planning can be a sensitive conversation, but it may become necessary. It involves planning not only for distribution of wealth upon death but also for providing for their well-being and guarding against the expenses of possible disability during their later years. Approaching this topic with empathy, respect and preparation will […]
February 5, 2025 Posted in Estate Planning Tagged asset, distribution, wealth Comments Off on Bringing Up the Topic of Estate Planning With Your Parents
Using Auto and Health Insurance Coverage for Accident Injuries
In New York State, individuals involved in car accidents can obtain reimbursement for the costs of injuries through their automobile and health insurance policies. The state’s no-fault insurance laws prioritize first-party coverage for medical and other expenses in many cases, while preserving the right to sue third parties in cases of serious injuries. This system […]
January 5, 2025 Posted in Auto Accidents Tagged car accidents, insurance, reimbursement Comments Off on Using Auto and Health Insurance Coverage for Accident Injuries
Understanding Your Right to Damages if Bitten by a Dog
In New York, victims of dog bites are often able to recover money damages, but there are important evidentiary requirements that must be met. New York follows the “one bite” rule, which holds a dog owner strictly liable under certain circumstances but also limits the type of damages that a victim can recover. The “one […]
December 5, 2024 Posted in Personal Injury Tagged Bitten, Dog Bites, injuries Comments Off on Understanding Your Right to Damages if Bitten by a Dog
The Most Prosecuted Illegal Drug Crimes in New York
New York’s drug laws are among the strictest in the nation, focusing on both punishing offenders and abating the opioid crisis. The illegal drugs most frequently prosecuted in the state include cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine and MDMA (Ecstasy). These drugs are often the targets of take-down operations aimed at distribution rings, but even simple possession […]
November 5, 2024 Posted in Criminal Law Tagged drug crimes, Ecstasy, Illegal Drug Comments Off on The Most Prosecuted Illegal Drug Crimes in New York
When May You Plea Bargain a DWI to a “Wet Reckless”?
In New York, a “wet reckless” plea bargain refers to a reduced charge that replaces a standard charge of driving while intoxicated (DWI). The term is used informally to describe reckless operation of a vehicle with alcohol influencing the driver’s abilities, but at a level of impairment less severe than what would constitute a DWI […]
October 5, 2024 Posted in Criminal Law Tagged Criminal, DUI/DWI, wet reckless Comments Off on When May You Plea Bargain a DWI to a “Wet Reckless”?
[New Version] When Do Federal Authorities Have Jurisdiction Over Criminal Cases?
The United States has two parallel court systems — state and federal. State courts handle most criminal and civil cases, enforcing laws enacted by state legislatures. Federal courts, however, deal with cases that involve federal laws, the U.S. Constitution and issues that transcend state boundaries or involve national interests. Federal jurisdiction over criminal cases arises […]
September 5, 2024 Posted in Federal Crimes Tagged Drug Trafficking, Federal Courts, Federal Jurisdiction, National Security Comments Off on [New Version] When Do Federal Authorities Have Jurisdiction Over Criminal Cases?
What Justifies a Modification of Spousal Maintenance in New York?
Spousal maintenance, as alimony is known in New York, is designed to help one spouse maintain their standard of living following a divorce. Typically, it is paid in a fixed, recurring amount over a predetermined period. However, changing financial circumstances for either ex-spouse can necessitate a modification of the maintenance payment. To qualify for a […]
August 5, 2024 Posted in Spousal support Tagged Alimony, Financial Circumstances, Spousal Maintenance Comments Off on What Justifies a Modification of Spousal Maintenance in New York?
