Many people know that the laws regarding residential security deposits are detailed – when the lease is signed, a condition report must be completed, receipts provided, and funds placed into a separate bank account. There is a trap for the unwary landlord when the lease terminates. The Supreme Judicial Court has affirmed that MGL c. [...]
A complete estate plan will address intangible digital assets, such as your: · Email · Social networking sites · Photo sharing sites · Digital bank records & investment accounts · Blogs, domain names, copyrighted material; and · Paypal & Bitcoin. Tracking down access information for each of these assets and deciding how to handle each [...]
R&T has a history spanning over 120 years. The individuals that came before us exemplified our commitment to excellence in the law and service to their communities. Richardson and Tyler, was founded in 1897 by Frederick William Dallinger (b. 1871), Harvard Class of 1893, chairman of the Massachusetts Conveyancers Association, Director of Harvard Trust Company [...]
Clients often suggest, “I just need a simple will”. That may be true, but a little careful thought by an experienced attorney could save your loved ones a lot of money and time. For instance, did you know: You should verify the exact name and address of a charity named in your will? Recently, a [...]
Do you have an oversize lot, or more than one lot? Many homeowners do. To landowners’ dismay, two lots can become one lot if zoning laws change, to increase the minimum lot size in your town or city. Many people view that extra lot as a nest egg that could be sold for retirement or [...]
You’ve probably given careful consideration to whom you want to be your child’s guardian. But did you know that guardianship ends when the child turns 18? A guardian is required to turn over all remaining funds to the child on their 18th birthday, and the child no longer receives court supervision or protection for the [...]
Terminated employees are more apt to sue their former employer. Pitfalls to avoid? Vacation time must be treated as wages & paid on day of discharge. It’s important to accurately record hours and pay, otherwise, you may be personally liable for attorney’s fees, wages & mandatory triple damages. Independent Contractors (“1099 workers”) must meet certain [...]
When investing, it’s best to plan for the worst & hope for the best. If the investment goes south, a creditor who enjoys “priority” stands in a better position to recoup their investment. You can better position yourself with: Mortgage – or lien on real estate Attachment – court ordered lien on realty, bank deposits, [...]
Reverse mortgages are a great option for a very small number of people. Sometimes billed as an investment strategy, reverse mortgages are more properly referred to as an option of last resort. When are reverse mortgages a bad idea? Seniors who can live comfortably on their income should not cash in on their home equity [...]
Many commercial landlords place the obligation to make repairs on the tenant, especially in single tenant properties. However, Massachusetts’ highest court ruled there are dangers in doing so. Even if the lease requires the tenant to perform repairs, a landlord can be liable for damages caused by unsafe conditions. What to do if you are [...]