Volunteer and Celebrate "I Love My Park Day" on Long Islad

 Law Offices of Louis D. Stober, Jr., L.L.C.

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530

877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

Looking for something fun to do on Long Island this weekend?  The weather is going to be beautiful - why not take advantage of spending some time outdoors?  This weekend, eighteen parks across Long Island will hold volunteer events as part of the 4th annual "I Love My Park Day!"

The participating parks will work with park staff and friend groups to cleanup, improve, and beautify the parks with volunteers!  Here is a list of the participating parks.

Participating Parks:

• Bayard Cutting Arboretum State Park
• Belmont Lake State Park
• Bethpage State Park
• Caleb Smith State Park Preserve
• Captree State Park
• Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve
• Connetquot River State Park Preserve
• Heckscher State Park
• Hempstead Lake State Park
• Jones Beach State Park
• Montauk Point State Park
• Nissquogue River State Park
• Orient Beach State Parik
• Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park
• Robert Moses State Park
• Sunken Meadow State Park
• Valley Stream State Park
• Walt Whitman Birthplace State Historic Park

For more information on "I Love My Park Day," check out this article from longisland.com

If you are in need of legal expertise this spring, 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.

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 Law Offices of Louis D. Stober, Jr., L.L.C.

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530

877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

Are you follow the Law Offices of Louis D. Stober on all of our social pages?  We're live on Twitter, Facebook, Google+ and YouTube!  Connect with us for legal tips, local news, and information about our practice!

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Understanding Wills: Frequently Asked Questions

 Law Offices of Louis D. Stober, Jr., L.L.C.

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530

877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

Do you have a will in place?  Although it's not a topic we all like to dwell on, wills are an important part of making sure that your assets are properly distributed after you pass away.  Here are a few of the most frequently asked questions regarding wills, according to the American Bar Association.

What Does a Will Do?
A will provides instructions on how to distribute your property after you pass away.  With a will, you can dispose of property as you choose.  By reviewing your beneficiary designations, you can determine who will receive your properties after your death.

What Happens If You Die Without a Will?
If you do not have a will in place, New York State laws dictate how your assets are distributed and who receives your property by default.  In many cases, the assets will be distributed to spouses and children.  Many people are not happy with the state's predetermined plan, and prefer to have a plan that suits their personal preferences. 

What Does a Will NOT do?
Wills do not govern non-probate properties.  This includes real estate and other assets owned with rights of survivorship.  Similarly, IRAs and insurance policies payable to  named beneficiary pass on to said person regardless of what is state in your will.

How Do You Excute (Sign) a Will?
All wills need to be signed in the presence of a witness.  Our attorneys are here to help you through the process and make preparing and executing your will simple.

What is a Living Will?
Living wills are a written expression of how you want to be treated in certain medical circumstances.  This can include life-sustaining treatments in hte event you are terminally ill or injured.  This document gives you the opportunity to determine in advance whether you wish to be provided with food and water via intravenous devices and to give other medical instructions that dictate how you wish to be cared for.

Read more FAQs regarding wills and estate planning on the American Bar Association website.

If you are in need of legal expertise this spring, 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.

What to Do When You've Forgotten Your Driver's License

 Law Offices of Louis D. Stober, Jr., L.L.C.

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530

877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

Forgetfulness can sometimes get the better of us. If you've left your driver's license at home, don't panic.  This traffic violation is simple to correct.

In NY, forgetting to carry your driver's license while driving your vehicle generally leads to a "fix-it ticket."  In this case, you just need to later show proof that you have fixed the violation and have the citation dismissed by the traffic court.  

If your license is suspended or revoked, the consequences can be more serious.  Depending on your charge, it might be considered a misdemeanor.  Fortunately, our experienced attorneys are here to help you navigate through the legal system and determine what the best option will be for you.

Read more about what to do when you've forgotten your license here.

If you are in need of legal expertise this spring, 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.

Family-Friendly Weekend Events on Long Island

 Law Offices of Louis D. Stober, Jr., L.L.C.

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530

877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

It may not feel like spring today, but May is right around the corner.  Looking for something fun to do with your family this weekend?  There are plenty of fun events happening across Long Island.

Weekend Events:

Arbor Day Family Festival
Where: Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park
Cost: $20 Per Vehicle
When: Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 5pm
Celebrate the trees in a weekend-long festival that celebrates Arbor Day!  

Tyrants and Tiaras: Pirate and Princess Day
Where: Long Island Aquarium
Cost: $26.50 for adults, $10.25 for children 12 and younger if dressed as a pirate or princess 
When: Saturday from 10am-3pm
Children 12 and younger will get 50% off admission to the aquarium when they come dressed in their favorite pirate or princess costume!  There will be photo opportunities, pistol duels, and whip and cannon demonstrations.  

All Kids Fair
Where: Melville Marriott
Cost: $5, free ages 2 and younger
When: Sunday from 10am-4:30 pm
Looking for a healthier weekend alternative?  This educational health and wellness fair will feature more than 80 different vendors!  Kids can have fun with free face painting, smoothies, and gluten free baked goods samples!

Check out this article from Newsday for more fun weekend events.

If you are in need of legal expertise this spring, 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.

How to Spring Clean Your Finances and Documents

 Law Offices of Louis D. Stober, Jr., L.L.C.

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530

877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

Have you started spring cleaning yet? 

Spring is the perfect season to get rid of the clutter that has built up over the winter and start fresh.  In addition to dusting and getting rid of old clothes, it's important to spring clean your legal affairs.  

Here are a few tips to help you get started on spring cleaning your legal documents, files and finances.

Spring Cleaning Tips:

• Shred Old Documents - You should always keep your tax returns, canceled checks and records that support tax deductions for auditing purposes.  However, you can shred old financial records and pay stubs that you've been saving for years.  The IRS recommends keeping tax documents for 3-7 years.
• Review Your Estate Plan - It's important to have an estate plan in place to efficiently pass on assets to your loved ones.  It helps avoid the stress and cost of probate after you have passed away.  Take the time to update your estate plan and make sure that it is up-to-date this spring.
• Check Your Insurance Coverage - Now is a great time to review your insurance policy to make sure that you are still paying the lowest possible rate.  You can also review any changes that have incurred over the last year to make sure that you are still covered for what is necessary for you and your family.

Check out this article for more tips on how to spring clean your finances and legal documents.

If you are in need of legal expertise this spring, 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.

New York Attorney General Investigates On-Call Work Hours

 Law Offices of Louis D. Stober, Jr., L.L.C.

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530

877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

If you have ever worked in retail, you are probably familiar with their unpredictable "on call" scheduling.  However, this method of scheduling is now being investigated by the New York attorney general.

Many workers need to put aside time to show up for a shift that they may not be needed for.  According to the State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman, this system is unfair.  It means that the workers cannot schedule another job or consistent child care.

New York is one of eight states that has "reporting time" laws on the books.  However, many workers are unaware that this law exists.  Read more about the investigation on NPR.

If you are in need of legal expertise this spring, 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.

How to Prevent Yard Work Injuries This Spring

 Law Offices of Louis D. Stober, Jr., L.L.C.

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530

877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

It's finally spring!  Ready to spend some time outdoors?  Here are a few tips to help you prevent personal injury as you clean up your yard for spring.

Springtime Safety Tips:  

• Stretch First - Spring yard work involves using a lot of muscles that you might not have used all winter long.  Stretch first and take it easy when cleaning up leaves, mowing the lawn, and getting your yard ready for the warm weather.
• Know Your Plants - Before you pull any weeds this spring, make sure you are able to identify poison ivy, sumac, oak and other toxic plants.  If you do get any rashes, know how to treat them to reduce the irritation.
• Read Instructions Carefully - Many people sustain injuries from trimmers, lawn edgers, pruners and power saws.  Make sure you read the instructions carefully before use and check the product for damage.
• Wear Protective Clothing - Wear protective clothing when you handle pesticides and fertilizers.

Check out this article for more spring safety tips.  If you are in need of legal expertise this spring, 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.

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day at One of These Irish Restaurants on LI

 Law Offices of Louis D. Stober, Jr., L.L.C.

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530

877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

St. Patrick's Day is right around the corner. Get in the spirit by visiting one of these local Irish restaurants on Long Island. Here are a few to choose from!

Irish Restaurants:

Finn MacCool's
Where: Port Washington
This restaurant/bar serves classic Irish-American foods, including shepherd's pie, Irish nachos and Irish cobb salad!

Jackie Reilly's
Where: Bethpage
This restaurant has live bands that play every weekend. Their Irish dishes include bangers and mash, shepherd's pie and gaelic-style steak.

Lily Flanagan's Irish Pub
Where: Babylon
This pub offers both dining and dancing. If you are visiting the pub for eating, Newsday recommends the Gaelic chicken, shepherd's pie or their burgers.

Sullivan's Quay Restaurant and Bar
Where: Post Washington
This local pub is a casual place to enjoy some Irish food. The restaurant and bar offers corned beef and cabbage, fish and chips, and cornmeal-crusted fried catfish.

Check out this Newsday article for a full list of the best Irish restaurants on Long Island.

If you are in need of legal expertise this March, 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.

How to Keep Your Car Safe During Cold Weather

 Law Offices of Louis D. Stober, Jr., L.L.C.

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530

877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

The cold winter temperatures that we have been experiencing lately can take a toll on your car.  Here are a few tips to help keep your car in good shape and make sure you are driving safely this winter.

Winter Car Care Tips:

• Check Your Battery - Cold temperatures can weaken the strength of your car battery.  Have it checked for voltage and inspect the charging system.  
• Check Your Tires - Cold temperatures can cause your tire pressure to drop.  Check your tires at least once a month and keep a tire pressure gauge in your vehicle.  
• Replace Worn Windshield Wipers - With all of the snow that we have been having, it's important that your wipers are in good working condition.  Check to make sure that they are functioning properly.  If they are dried out, have them replaced.
• Remove Snow and Ice - Always remove snow and ice before you start driving.  This will ensure you have good visibility while driving and that you don't pose a safety hazard to other drivers.

For more winter car care tips, check out this article from longisland.com.

If you experience any legal issues this winter, 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.

Why Do You Need a Personal Injury Attorney?

 Law Offices of Louis D. Stober, Jr., L.L.C.

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530

877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

The cold and snowy weather has left the roads slippery and icy for most of February.  Remember to be careful when driving, as well as when walking to and from your car.  In the unfortunate event you are injured in an accident, we may be able to help you recover compensation for the physical harm and financial losses you've suffered.  

At the Law Offices of Louis D. Stober, Jr., LLC, we work with Long Islanders to seek justice for car accident victims, slip and falls, construction workers hurt on the job, and more.

If you recently experienced a personal injury.  There are three main reasons why you should give our office a call.

1.  The insurance companies have investigators immediately investigating your circumstances so you need someone  on your side to make sure that a thorough and proper investigation is performed.  

2.  You will receive a call from an insurance carrier or an agent looking to settle your case for you or finding out information from you.

3.  You want somebody who will quickly and efficiently gather up the information necessary to put a compelling case together.

Watch our YouTube video or visit our website to learn more about our personal injury services.  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.

What Should You Do With Your Speeding Ticket?

 Law Offices of Louis D. Stober, Jr., L.L.C.

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530

877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

While many people think that they can put it off, failing to address a traffic ticket can lead to points on your driver's licence, increased insurance premiums and large fines.  Speeding tickets are one of the main reasons that New Yorkers lose their driver's licenses.

Our traffic violation lawyers know what needs to be done to protect your right to drive.

When to Go to Traffic Court:

• You Can Prove You're Innocent -  If you have evidence that shows that you were not speeding, it's worth going to traffic court to present the information to the judge.
• You're Innocent and Have Spare Time - Many cases are dismissed because the police officer decides to skip their court date.  If you can attend court without significantly disrupting your routine, there is a chance it can work in your favor.
• There are Dire Consequences - If you are in danger of losing your license or you are facing a severe penalty, it's important to have the case seen before a judge. Our attorneys can help you prepare for the case.

If you recently received a traffic ticket, contact our office.  We know you are busy and we respect your time.   Our attorneys will explain your ticket and show you all of the options available to you.  If possible, we will handle your case without you ever having to make a court appearance.

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.

Estate Planning Advice for Non-Traditional Families

 Law Offices of Louis D. Stober, Jr., L.L.C.

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530

877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

Non-traditional households are becoming more and more common.  Did you know that about three quarters of people who divorce decide to remarry?

If you are in a relationship, but not married, you have been married more than once, or you have children by more than one partner, your estate planning may not be so straight forward.

Here are a few tips and things you and your spouse should consider before agreeing on an estate plan for your family.

Estate Planning Tips:

• Provide Your Partner With Rights - There are laws that allow property to pass on to spouses and children, but no laws to protect unmarried partners and adopted children.  Create a will, trust and power of attorney that distributes your wealth to your loved ones.
• Update Your Estate Frequently - Despite your good intentions, issues can arise when parents remarry.  Make sure that all of your legal documents provide directions that best suit your family's needs.
• Don't Be Wary of a Pre-Nup - Before getting married again, you should talk with your spouse about what they have in mind in terms of mutual financial support for children from previous marriages.  This can help eliminate confusion and ensure that the right family members receive the financial assets they are entitled to.
• Create a Trust - Trusts allow for more flexible planning.  A trust will allow you to plan for scenarios that give your spouse rights, but someone else the power to manage the property and protect it (such as children).

Read this article for more estate planning tips and contact our office if you have any questions about how you can legally protect your family.  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.

How to Stay Safe and Warm Through a New York Blizzard

 Law Offices of Louis D. Stober, Jr., L.L.C.

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530

877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

Are you ready for tonight's storm?

The snow is already coming down pretty heavily and significant snowfall is expected across long island.  Here are a few tips to help make sure you and your family stay safe through the blizzard.

Blizzard Safety Tips:

• Avoid Driving - With the rate the snow will be accumulating tonight, the roads will not be safe.  In many cases, the roads may be completely closed.  If you need to go out, make sure your car has at least half a tank of gas and have plenty of emergency supplies on hand.
• Be Prepared - According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, you should have about a week's worth of food and supplies at home.
• Stay Warm - If your kids want to go outside to play in the snow tomorrow, make sure they are bundled up.  Warm layers with a scarf and waterproof boots will help prevent hypothermia.
• Take Shoveling Breaks - Heavy snow and cold weather actually increases your risk of heart attack.  If you are over 55 or have a history of heart problems, you should take breaks, dress warmly, and remember to breathe when shoveling.

Read this article from CBS for more tips on how to stay safe through tonight's storm.

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.

The Best Law Movies of All Time

 Law Offices of Louis D. Stober, Jr., L.L.C.

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530

877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

It looks like it might snow tomorrow afternoon.  If you plan on staying inside this weekend, it might be a great time to watch a movie!  Here are a few of the best law movies, according to the American Bar Association.

Top Law Movies:

To Kill A Mockingbird
This popular film adaptation of the book by Harper Lee takes place in Depression-era Alabama.  Atticus Finch, the main character and lawyer, defends a crippled black man who is falsely accused.

Angry Men
Based on the drama Twelve Angry Men by Reginald Rose, this film is about a lone juror who expresses his doubts in what seems like an open-and-shut law case.

My Cousin Vinny
Vinny is a Brooklyn lawyer who only recently passed his bar exam.  He represents his cousin and friend who are arrested for murder after stopping at a convenience store in Alabama.

Philadelphia
An Ivy-educated gay attorney claims a big-time law firm fired him after discovering he contracted AIDS.  This is one of the first mainstream dramas to acknowledge AIDS.

Erin Brockovich
Erin Brockovich, a single parent of three, becomes a paralegal at a law firm in California.  She ends up investigating a suspicious real estate case and turns up a pattern of illegal toxic dumping.  This story is based on one of the largest class action suits in US history.

Judgement at Nuremberg
Four German judges who served during the Nazi regime are facing a military tribunal to answer charges of crimes against humanity.  This movie portrays the Nazi war crimes trials set in 1948.

There are many movies about law that have received recognition via the Academy Awards and Oscar nominations.  Visit the American Bar Association website for a complete list of the top 25 movies with about law.

If you are in need of legal expertise, you can always 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.

Fun Events on Long Island This Weekend

Law Offices of Louis D. Stober, Jr., L.L.C.

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530

877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

Do you have any plans for the three-day holiday weekend?  If you're looking for something to do, check out these events happening across Long Island!

Weekend Events:

The Best of Broadway and More Benefit Show
Where: Dix Hills Performing Arts Center
When: 7:30 PM, January 16th
Cost: $10
Visit their website for details on this show here: http://goo.gl/pMvuCf

Tasting Notes Jazz Club
Where: Harmony Vineyards
When: 8:00 PM, January 17th
Cost: No Cover Charge, 2 drink minimum per seat
Relax and enjoy jazz music at the 17th century tasting house.  While there is no cover charge, there is a two drink minimum.

Bay Street Theater Presents Legend of Rock & Roll Vol. 6
Where: Bay Street Theater
When: 8:00 PM, January 17th
Cost: $15
Watch a screening of a film that includes rare footage of music legends, including the Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan and Jimi Hendrix.

Moon Over Buffalo
Where: North Fork Community Theatre
Cost: $15
This comedy show is set around an over-the-hill thespian couple waiting for their big break. Read more about the premise of the show here: http://goo.gl/HQdgEg

If you are in need of legal expertise this weekend, 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.

How to Work Safely in Cold Weather

Law Offices of Louis D. Stober, Jr., L.L.C.

350 Old Country Road, Suite 205, Garden City, NY 11530

877-791-8076 / StoberLaw.com

Not all jobs can be completed indoors. Many workers have to work outside, even on cold days.  Here are a few tips to help you prevent cold stress this winter.

Tips to Prevent Cold Stress:

• Protective Clothing - The first and most important thing you can do to stay warm when working outdoors is wear clothing that is appropriate for the temperature and weather conditions.  Wearing layers helps provide better insulation.
• Foot Comfort and Safety - Wear felt-lined, rubber bottomed, leather-topped boots for the best foot protection.  This will help keep your feet from getting wet and prevent perspiration from escaping.  Wear thick socks or even two pairs of socks on cold days.  A liner sock can help keep your feet dry and warm by wicking away sweat.
• Face Protection - Wear eye wear that is appropriate for your work, as well as for protection against the sun, snow glare and cold temperatures.
• Take Breaks Indoors - Try to move into warm locations during your breaks.  If you are going to take a lunch break, take it inside.  Try to limit the amount of time that you spend otuside on particularly cold days.

This article from the CDC, as well as this article on cold weather work conditions provide information on how to work safely outdoors this winter.

In the unfortunate event you experience an on the job injury this winter and 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.