Wednesday, December 31, 2014

Celebrate New Year's Eve Safely This Year

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530
877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com


Are you ready to ring in the New Year?  If you are heading out to visit friends and family this evening, remember to drive safely!  Nassau and Suffolk County police departments plan on stepping up DWI checkpoints tonight.

It probably comes as no surprise that New Year's Eve is one of the biggest party nights of the year.  Nassau and Suffolk police will be stepping up patrols and sending police operatives under 21 into bars and liquor stores to buy alcohol.

These efforts are all in an attempt to prevent "senseless, alcohol-related accidents that, unfortunately, often occur during a holiday," according to Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano.

Read more about the DWI checkpoints in Newsday.  Happy New Year and remember to celebrate safely!

You can contact our office for legal assistance in 2015!  Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier law firm.  Contact our office by calling 877-791-8076.  You can also like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for the latest news stories and legal tips.

Monday, December 29, 2014

What New Laws Will Take Effect in 2015?

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530
877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

Are you ready for the New Year?  January 1st is a common start date for new laws to begin!  Here are a few changes that will effect New Yorkers in 2015.

New Laws for 2015:

  • Minimum Wage Increase -The minimum wage in New York State will increase from $8.00 to $8.75 an hour.
  • Disposing of E-Waste - Next year it will be illegal to throw away laptops, video game consoles and flat screen TVs in the normal trash and recycling.  There will be a $100 charge for each infraction.
  • Tax Credits - Businesses will receive tax credits for hiring and employing qualified veterans and individuals with developmental disabilities.  
  • Medicaid Cap - The county costs to support the state and federal medicaid program will no longer increase.

Read more about the new laws in New York Business Journal.

You can contact our office for legal assistance through the new year.  Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier law firm.  Contact our office by calling 877-791-8076.  You can also like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for the latest news stories and legal tips.

Tuesday, December 23, 2014

Holiday Toy Safety Tips for Parents and Kids

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530
877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com


Buying any last minute holiday gifts?  According to the World Against Toys Causing Harm, there are a few toys you should avoid.  Be sure to check the age recommendations and look out for small parts!

Popular Toy Hazards

  • Wooden Instruments - Wooden toys are designed for infants, but if there are small parts involved they can be a choking hazards for young children.
  • Bottle Rocket Party - These toys use projectiles, but do not provide safety goggles.  This presents the potential for eye injury.  Make sure you use this toy safely!
  • Radio Flyer Ziggle - This four-wheeled cycle moves when the rider twists.  Be careful when using this, especially when outside in the streets or near cars!
  • Air Storm Firetek Bow - This light up bow sends arrows up in the air.  Although the toy lights up, it shouldn't be used in complete darkness and still leaves a potential for eye injury.
For more holiday toy hazards, check out this article from longisland.com.  

You can contact our office for legal assistance through the holiday season and new year.  Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier law firm.  Contact our office by calling 877-791-8076.  You can also like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for the latest news stories and legal tips.

Monday, December 22, 2014

Best Places to Take Holiday Photos on Long Island

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530
877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

Looking for a fun place to take family holiday photos?  Here are a few iconic Long Island landmarks to incorporate!

Long Island Landmarks:

Montauk Point Lighthouse - 
The Montauk Lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse in NY.  It's a beautiful place to take photos year round!

Grumman Memorial Park - 
This park is located out east in Calverton.  It's a great place for aviation and history lovers to take photos.

Fire Island Lighthouse -
The Fire Island lighthouse is a great background for your holiday photo.  They even offer tours and you can climb up to the top of the lighthouse for a beautiful view of Long Island.

The Long Island Duck -
This Long Island landmark can make a silly spot for your family photo.  The duck is located in Flanders.

Check out this article from Longisland.com for more great Long Island landmarks for your holiday photo.

You can also contact our office for legal assistance through the holiday season and new year.  Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier law firm.  Contact our office by calling 877-791-8076.  You can also like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for the latest news stories and legal tips.

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Drive Safely When Driving in Holiday Traffic

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530
877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

The holidays are a popular time for traveling!  Before you head out onto the roads to visit friends and family, here are a few tips to help you drive safely.

Safety Tips:

  • Wear Your Seat Belt - Even if you're only traveling down the block, it's important to wear your seat belt!  Buckle up every time you get in the car.
  • Don't Text and Drive - Avoid using any electronic devices when driving.  Not only can you avoid a ticket, but even hands-free devices can distract you from what is going on on the roads.
  • Designate a Driver - Plan ahead! If you know that you will be drinking at a holiday party, make sure that you have a way to get home safely.  Designate a driver or call a cab, rather than risking the drive home.
  • Be Alert - If you will be driving late at night or early in the morning, make sure that you are awake.  Give yourself plenty of time to rest up before your trip and plan for regular stops.
For more tips on how to travel safely this holiday season, visit the National Safety Council website.  You can also contact our office for legal assistance through the holiday season and new year.  Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier law firm.  Contact our office by calling 877-791-8076.  You can also like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for the latest news stories and legal tips.

Tuesday, December 16, 2014

Tips to Prepare Your Car for Holiday Travel

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530
877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

Will you be traveling for the holidays?  Make sure your car is ready before you go!  Here are a few emergency items every driver should have in their car when traveling.

Emergency Checklist:

  • Shovel
  • Windshield Scraper
  • Flashlight
  • Batteries
  • Blankets
  • Tire Chains
  • Booster Cables
  • Emergency Flares
For more tips on how to make sure that you are prepared for travel through the holidays and new year, check out this article from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier law firm.  Contact our office by calling 877-791-8076.  You can also like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for the latest news stories and legal tips.

Friday, December 12, 2014

Garden City Christmas Holiday Spectacular

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530
877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

Garden City's Christmas Holiday Spectacular is tonight!  Will you be enjoying the festivities with your family?  

The Christmas Holiday Spectacular will take place on Seventh Street in Garden City.   The shops will stay open for holiday shopping for the first annual celebration and there will be a live performance by the popular band Fivestone.  The Holiday Promenade will be filled with hayrides, fire drums, carolers, face painters, balloon animals and more!

Here are a few of the events going on tonight at the Christmas Holiday Spectacular:

Queen Elsa and Princess Anna Meet & Greet - 6-7pm
Queen Elsa Performance - 7pm
Arrival of Santa Claus - 7:30pm

For more information on the holiday festivities, visit the Village of Garden City website. 

Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier law firm.  Contact our office by calling 877-791-8076.  You can also like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for the latest news stories and legal tips.

Wednesday, December 10, 2014

Places to Visit Santa on Long Island

Santa will be making many appearances across Long Island this holiday season.  If you're looking for something festive to do, here are a few of the places you and your family can enjoy the day visiting Santa!  

Places to visit and take a photo with Santa:

Smith Haven Mall

Lake Grove
Santa will be visiting the mall to take photos with kids through December 24th. For specific times and costs, they recommend you visit their website or call 631-724-1433.


Westfield South Shore Mall
Bay Shore 
Santa will be taking photos with kids through December 24th from 10am to 9pm Monday through Saturday. He will be available from 11am to 6pm on Sundays.

Roosevelt Field Mall
Garden City
Kids can visit Santa through December 24th.  The hours vary, so they recommend checking their website for specific times.  

Walt Whitman Shops
Huntington Station
Children can bring their holiday wishlists to Santa daily through Christmas eve.  Since the hours vary, they recommend checking the website for details.

White Post Farms Animal Farm and Petting ZooMelville
This farm has a ton of fun activities for kids, including a visit from Santa every Saturday and Sunday through Christmas from 10am to 4pm.  Pictures with Santa are included with your $12 admission fee.

Bayville Adventure Park's Winter Wonderland
Bayville
Meet Santa by the beach!  This winter holiday park is open on Fridays from 6pm-10pm, Saturdays from 12pm-10pm and Sundays from 12pm-9pm.

Hicks Nursery
Westbury
Santa will be visiting Hicks Nursery from 10am-1pm and 2pm-5pm until December 23rd.  There will be reindeer, a walk-through holiday story and a store with holiday villages.  Hicks Nursery also has a collection for nonperishable food items.

For more places to see Santa with your kids this month check out the following articles from Mommy Poppins and Newsday.

Tuesday, December 9, 2014

Travel Tips for the Holiday Season

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530
877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

Will you be traveling to visit family and friends this holiday season?  With Hanukkah and Christmas just a few weeks away, here are a few tips to help you survive the holiday travel rush.

Travel Tips:
  • Research and Plan - Check the TSA website to brush up on the 3-1-1 liquids rule.  Make sure you know what items are ok to bring on the plane and which ones aren't to save yourself the hassle at the airport.
  • Pack Carefully - Only pack what you need.  You might not even have to check a bag!  Sticking with your carry on means you don't have to wait on a baggage line or worry about your luggage getting lost.
  • Get a Ride to the Airport - Parking fares can be expensive.  Rather than paying a fee for parking or getting a car service to and from the airport, ask a friend or family member to drop you off.  This will save you both stress and money!
  • Allow Plenty of Time - Airports can get crowded during the holidays.  Allow plenty of time to check your bags, go through security and find your gate before your flight.
Read this article from longisland.com for more tips on how to reduce holiday travel stress.
Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier law firm.  Contact our office by calling 877-791-8076.  You can also like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for the latest news stories and legal tips.

Friday, December 5, 2014

Injuries and Illnesses in the Workplace

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530
877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

While the number of injuries that occur year after year are on a steady decline, the number is still substantially high.  A little over three million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses were reported by private industry employers last year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.  

It's important that employees understand all of the benefits and compensation available to them.  Here are a few ways we can help you get the compensation you deserve.

  • Replace lost wages
  • Coverage of medical bills, medications, therapy
  • Job retraining
  • Monetary damages for permanent, full or partial disability

If you or someone you love has experienced an injury on the job this year, give our office a call.  Our lawyers are experienced in all aspects of workers' compensation law.  

Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier law firm.  Contact our office by calling 877-791-8076.  You can also like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for the latest news stories and legal tips.

Wednesday, December 3, 2014

GM Recalls Fault Ignition Switches

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530
877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

GM recalled vehicles with faulty ignition switches yesterday.  They urge anyone who has not yet repaired the switch to contact their local dealer to arrange an appointment.  

Vehicles Affected by the Recall:

  • Saturn ION (2003-2007)
  • Chevrolet Cobalt (2005-2010)
  • Chevrolet HHR (2006-2011)
  • Pontiac G5 (2007-2012)
  • Pontiac Solstice (2006-2012)
  • Saturn Sky (2007-2010)

The recalled ignition switch creates the danger of the airbags not deploying in the event of an auto accident.  If you're not sure if your car qualifies for the ignition switch recall, check this VIN look-up tool.  

GM recommends that until car owners get their ignition switch fixed, they remove everything from their key ring except for the car key and make sure that the car is in park with the parking brake before exiting the vehicle.

If you are in need of legal expertise, contact our office. Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier law firm.  Contact our office by calling 877-791-8076.  You can also like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for the latest news stories and legal tips.

Monday, December 1, 2014

How to Avoid Cyber Monday Scams

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530
877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com


Will you be doing any online shopping today? Cyber Monday is the biggest online shopping day of the year! Just make sure that you're shopping smart. Here are a few tips to help you avoid online scams while purchasing your holiday gifts.

Tips to Avoid Cyber Monday Scams:
  • Do Your Research - Make sure that the company you are buying from is a reputable business. Try Googling "Business Name Scam" to get an idea of whether or not the business is worth purchasing from. You can also check out the Better Business Bureau!
  • Buy From Secure Servers - Whenever you make a payment online, make sure that the website is https://. The "s" stands for secure! There will be a padlock symbol next to the website address that lets you know that your website is legitimate.
  • Update Your Computer Security - Are you running an anti-virus program? Make sure that it's updated! Don't click on any attachments or links from unknown sources.
  • Beware of Phishing - Don't provide your credit card or bank account information to anyone by phone, text, email, or pop-up ad. These are common ways people gain your personal information under the guise of confirmation.
Read more about how you can avoid Cyber Monday scams here. We want to make sure you enjoy the holidays safely!

If you are in need of legal expertise, contact our office. Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier law firm.  Contact our office by calling 877-791-8076.  You can also like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for the latest news stories and legal tips.

Friday, November 28, 2014

Visit Our YouTube Channel

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530
877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

Have you visited our YouTube channel recently?  Louis Stober offers information on wills, power of attorneys, real estate law, and more!  Check out our YouTube videos below:

Uncontested Divorces in New York


Real Estate Law in New York


Probating a Will


If you are in need of legal expertise, contact our office. Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier law firm.  Contact our office by calling 877-791-8076.  You can also like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for the latest news stories and legal tips.

Wednesday, November 26, 2014

Celebrate a Safe and Happy Thanksgiving Holiday

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530
877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

As you get ready to spend time with your family and friends this weekend, remember to be safe!  Whether your are traveling in the rain and snow or staying home and cooking, here are a few tips to help you celebrate a safe and happy Thanksgiving day.

Thanksgiving Safety Tips:
  • Clean Cooking Surfaces - Keeping your cooking surfaces clean will help prevent grease buildup as you're preparing your Thanksgiving meal.
  • Don't Leave Stove Unattended - If you have to leave the kitchen, make sure the stove is turned off or another adult is supervising. Use a timer to remind yourself that the stove is on!
  • Watch Kids and Pets - Kids and pets might unknowingly knock into something in the kitchen. Keep an eye on them and make sure they stay away from the cooking area.
  • Be Careful Driving - If you plan on driving tonight or tomorrow morning, plan for rain and icy roads. Always use your seat belt and make sure that you are well rested before a long trip.
For more tips on how to prepare for the Thanksgiving holiday, check out this article from Patch.

If you are in need of legal expertise, contact our office. Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier law firm.  Contact our office by calling 877-791-8076.  You can also like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for the latest news stories and legal tips.

Monday, November 24, 2014

Thanksgiving Safe Driving Tips

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530
877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

Thanksgiving is one of the biggest travel holidays of the year.  If you plan on getting on the road to visit your family and friends, here are a few tips to help make sure you are prepared for your trip.

Safe Driving Tips:

  • Check Your Car - Make sure that you have a full tank of gas before heading out for a long road trip.  You should also check your tire pressure and fluids before you leave.
  • Pack Light - Consider your vehicle's load capacity before packing suitcases and gear into the car.  
  • Bring Your GPS - Don't forget to bring a GPS with you!  This will help you steer clear of messy, congested areas and let you know where you can find gas stations and restaurants along the way.
  • Be Patient - Thanksgiving is one of the biggest travel days of the year.  Try driving late and night or early in the morning to avoid the traffic rush.
  • Avoid Distractions - If you need to send a text message or make a call, pull over or hand the phone to a passenger.  
Read this article for more tips on how to drive safely when visiting your friends and family this Thanksgiving.

If you are in need of legal expertise, contact our office. Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier law firm.  Contact our office by calling 877-791-8076.  You can also like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for the latest news stories and legal tips.

Friday, November 21, 2014

Long Island Turkey Trots

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530
877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

Photo Source: Flickr
Turkey Trots are a great way to give back to local charities and burn off some calories before your Thanksgiving meal.  Here are a few runs you can participate in this year!

Turkey Trots Across Long Island:

Thanksgiving Day Run
Where: American Legion Post 360, Huntington
When: 11/27 at 8:30 am

Garden City Turkey Trot
Where:  St. Paul's School, Garden City
When: 11/27, 8:30 am

Oyster Bay 5k Turkey Trot
Where:  Oyster Bay High School, Oyster Bay
When:  11/27, 9:00 am

Long Beach 10k Turkey Trot
Where: Long Beach
When: 11/23 at 8:30 am

Massapequa Park 5k Turkey Trot
Where: Brady Park, Massapequa Park
When:  11/22 at 9:00 am

For more Turkey Trots and information on where they are being held, check out this inclusive list on the Newsday website.

If you are in need of legal expertise, contact our office. Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier law firm.  Contact our office by calling 877-791-8076.  You can also like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for the latest news stories and legal tips.

Tuesday, November 18, 2014

Don't Make These Estate Planning Mistakes

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530
877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

Have you created your estate plan yet?  Estate plans are a valuable asset to you and your family.  Make sure you avoid these common estate planning mistakes!

Estate Planning Mistakes to Avoid:
  • Don't Leave it Up to the State - A will indicates who receives what when you pass away.  However, you estate may have to go through a public probate process, which can be very expensive.  Creating a trust will eliminate this process and ensure your privacy.
  • Don't Forget to Fund the Trust - Your trust doesn't exist until it holds assets.  You need to retitle your accounts in the name of your trust.
  • Don't Forget to Update Them - Many people create their estate-planning documents and forget about them.  However, your relationships with people may change over time.  You should always keep your documents up-to-date.
  • Don't Forget to Look at Beneficiary Forms - Retirement accounts and insurance policies do not flow through your trust or will.  They are governed by the beneficiary you elected when you created them.  It's a good idea to look over these forms and revise them after you have gone through a divorce or had more children.
  • Don't Forget to Consult Us - Our experienced attorneys can help you make sure that you are following all of the steps necessary to get your estate in order.  You don't want to end up with unnecessary fees!
CNBC offers more tips and mistakes that you should avoid when planning your estate.  If you are in need of legal expertise, contact our office. Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier law firm.  Contact our office by calling 877-791-8076.  You can also like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for the latest news stories and legal tips.