When entering into a commercial lease in Illinois, understanding the terms of the lease agreement is essential to protect tenant rights. As a business transaction lawyer knows, a commercial landlord must uphold the contractual duties outlined in the lease, but landlord liabilities are not always clearly outlined. … [Read more...]
Estate planning is a careful mixture of planning for present and future needs. People who put too much of their assets away in a trust may lose the ability to support their lifestyle. People who don’t plan sufficiently may end up paying significant sums in taxes. Living trusts are an estate planning tool that is critical to ensuring that future planning does not detract from present needs. Estate Planning Generally There are two tools that people use to plan their estate the will and the … [Read more...]
As the world progresses through the digital era, an increasing number of files and important documents are being copied and stored paperlessly. While this might seem like a more organized, safer and more efficient means of preserving paperwork, providing a digital copy may not be legally sufficient for estate documents- namely wills. In fact, an Illinois probate attorney cannot stress enough the importance of properly storing all original estate planning documents. … [Read more...]
Illinois small business owners are required to comply with certain environmental regulations and failure to do so can lead to fines and legal action. Unfortunately, not all small business owners are aware of or understand the regulations that they are responsible for complying with. Small Businesses and Environmental Regulations It’s not only businesses that provide automotive, agricultural chemical services that should be aware of federal and state environmental regulations. Small businesses … [Read more...]
The number of independent contractors in America will continue to increase as businesses seek ways to streamline operations and remain competitive. In 2006, the Department of Labor stated that 42.6 million of Americans, or 30% of the workforce were classified as independent contractors. It is estimated by that 2020, nearly 60 million people, or 40% of Americans will be classified as independent contractors. However, a business must be careful not to mischaracterize a worker as an … [Read more...]
Business owners in Illinois should understand which transactions consumers have the right to cancel within three days. … [Read more...]
Toxic mold infestation has been an area of concern for property owners and tenants for a number of years. While mold can pose a significant threat to the health of individuals who are exposed to its harmful spores, and property damage can be considerable, many individuals feel forced to remain living in their infested homes, simply because they don't know where to turn, who can be held liable, or how to get out of a legal lease or purchase contract. … [Read more...]
In Illinois, parents have several options to transfer assets upon death without going through a lengthy probate process. A probate attorney will use one of four routes to protect property from long probate battles. … [Read more...]
