Estate Planning Tips for Women

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 planning your estate yet?  

With the increasing financial role of women in household wealth, it's important to make sure that your assets are being passed on to the appropriate parties.  The same estate planning tips do not always apply to both men and women.  Here are a few estate planning tips for women who bring wealth to the table.

Estate Planning Tips for Women:

• Durable Power of Attorney – Since women are more likely to live longer than men, they are more likely to need long-term care insurance.  A durable power of attorney will keep the court from taking control of your assets.
• Revocable Living Trusts – In the event of incapacity, revocable living trusts often provide better protection than a durable power of attorney.  This document also contains instructions on distributing your assets after death.
• Caring for the Elderly – A woman’s estate plan should include plans and assets for taking care of loved ones that have fallen under her responsibility.
• Estate Plan Revisions – Women who remarry should revise their estate plan to make sure that assets are available to pay for the new spouse’s medical needs.
• Divorce – Be careful about what assets stay in your name following a divorce.  This can affect not just your current assets, but your future retirement accounts and pension plans.

Remember to contact the Law Offices of Louis D. Stober Jr. with all of your legal questions.  Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier law firm. Contact our office for a consultation 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.

photo credit: LendingMemo via photopin cc

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 

Looking for something fun to do this weekend?  Newsday rounded up a great list of concerts, fairs and festivals taking place in around town.  Check out a few of the events below!

Photo Source: Wikimedia

Ghostbusters Outdoor Summer Screening

Where: Southampton Arts Center

            25 Jobs Lane

Southampton, NY

When:  6/27; 8:30 pm

Cost:    Free

Fr. Thomas Judge K of C and St. Anthony’s Family Festival

Where: Trinity Regional School

            1025 Fifth Avenue

            East Northport, NY

When:  6/27; 6-11:30 pm              

6/28; 6-11:30 pm

6/29; 3-9 pm

Cost:    Free

Photo Source: Wikipedia

Huntington Summer Arts Festival: Garland Jeffreys

Where: Chapin Rainbow Stage, Heckscher Park    

            Huntington, NY

When:  6/27; 8:30 pm

Cost:    Free

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy - Swing music performance and fireworks

Where: Point Lookout Town Park

            1300 Lido Blvd.

            Point Lookout, NY

When:  6/28; 7:30 pm

Cost:    Free

Classical Motifs in the Gardens – Tour of Greek and Roman garden design

Where: Old Westbury Gardens

            71 Old Westbury Rd.

            Old Westbury, NY

When:  6/29; 2 pm

Cost:    $10

$8 seniors (over 62)

$5 Children 7-17

Free for ages 6 and under

Learn more about the events taking place on Long Island this weekend by reading the full article. 

As always, remember to contact the Law Offices of Louis D. Stober Jr. with all of your legal questions.  Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier law firm. Contact our office for a consultation 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 Crossbow Hunting Law for Fall 2014

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 

Photo Source: Wikimedia

Are you an avid hunter?  New state legislation for the 2014 hunting season will allow the taking of game by the use of crossbow at certain times and places in New York.  The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is accepting public comment on proposed hunting rule changes through July 21, 2014.

These law changes will allow the taking of big game (deer and bear) during the hunting season in which use of a firearm is allowed.  Exceptions include during the Youth Deer Hunting weekend and the January firearms deer season.  The law will also include the taking of small game (wild turkey and other game birds) during their respective hunting seasons.

Those who wish to make a formal public comment on the proposed rule can do so through July 21^st by:

• Sending an email: wildliferegs@gw.dec.state.ny.us (Subject: Crossbrow Regulations)
• Writing a letter: Mr. Bryan L. Swift, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Bureau of Wildlife, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-4754.

If you would like to learn more about the proposed rule, visit the DEC website or their information on crossbow hunting. 

Remember to contact the Law Offices of Louis D. Stober Jr. with all of your legal questions.  Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier law firm. Contact our office for a consultation 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.

Motorcycle Driver Safety

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 

Image Source: Flickr / Kevin Galens

This warm weather has been perfect for motorcycle drivers – just make sure you’re driving safely!  For National Safety Month, we remind motorcycle riders to take necessary precautions before heading out.  Serious motorcycle injuries peak during the summer months.  Here are a few tips to help you drive safely when out on the roads this summer.

Motorcycle Safety Tips:

• Wear Your Helmet – Helmet laws vary from state to state, but one of the best ways to improve safety while riding a motorcycle is by wearing a DOT-approved helmet.
• Wear Protective Clothing – The clothing you wear should also provide some level of injury protection.  Upper body clothing should also include bright colors so that other motorist can easily spot you.
• Drive Responsibly – As always, you should never drive your motorcycle after drinking.  If you have been drinking, call a taxi or get a ride home from a friend.
• Maintain a Safe Speed – Slippery surfaces and gravel are especially dangerous for motorcycle drivers.  Drive at a safe speed and exercise caution.

If you have been hit with a traffic violation, contact the Law Offices of Louis D. Stober Jr.  Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier labor and discrimination law firm. Contact our office for a consultation 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 Drive Safely in a Construction Zone

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 

Photo Source: Wikipedia

Work zone accidents are unfortunately common during the summer months.  One of the best ways to limit rear-end crashes and work zone injuries is to take extra precautions when driving in construction zones.  Here are a few tips for driving safely in a work zone.

Work Zone Safety Tips for Drivers:

• Stay Alert – It’s always important to stay alert when driving, but this is especially true in construction zones where people and machines are moving around.
• Don’t Tailgate – Make sure that you are following vehicles at a safe distance. 
• Slow Down – Many construction zones have restricted speed limits, as workers may be just feet away.  Fines may also double for moving traffic violations in construction zones.
• Merge Into the Proper Lane – Traffic patterns can change daily.  Merge well before you reach the lane closure.

For more tips on how to drive safely in a construction zone, visit the Federal Highway Administration website.

If you have been hit with a traffic violation, contact the Law Offices of Louis D. Stober Jr.  Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier labor and discrimination law firm. Contact our office for a consultation 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.

Cruise Ship Accidents: Slip & Fall Injury

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 

Photo Source: Wikipedia

Injuries can happen even when we are on vacation.  Slip and falls are common among those embarking on cruises to the Caribbean during the summer months.  What many people don’t realize is that cruise liner accident cases are handled in a different manner than other personal injury cases.

Onboard slip and falls can happen when embarking or disembarking on the gangplank, around the swimming pool, and around other dangerous conditions.  In many cases, the passenger will be able to hold the ship responsible and receive compensation.  However, International and national cruise liners have passengers sign an agreement to have their case heard in a court of the ship’s choosing before boarding.  However, this does not necessarily mean that you need to travel to Florida to have your case heard.  The boating accident attorneys at the Law offices of Louis D. Stober, Jr., L.L.C. can serve as your local counsel, working in association with an attorney in Florida.

If you suffered an injury aboard a cruise ship, contact the Law Offices of Louis D. Stober Jr.  Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier labor and discrimination law firm. Contact our office for a consultation 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.

Boating Accident Prevention Tips

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 

There are many opportunities for recreational boating and jet skiing on Long Island.  However, many boating injuries occur each year due to negligence.  It is important to understand how to avoid dangerous and unsafe practices while boating.  Here are a few tips to help prevent accidents on the water.

Accident Prevention Tips:

• Keep Your Distance – Respect the space of the other boaters around you.  This will help you avoid blind spots and potential collisions.  Drivers of personal watercrafts, like jet skis, also need to be careful.  PWCs can turn quickly and accelerate rapidly.  Leave yourself enough space to react to other drivers.
• Mind Your Wake – Look behind you before you make a turn.  You should also be conscious of other boaters’ wakes. 
• Lookout for Shoals and Sandbars – Running aground is a common problem among boaters.  It is a good idea to obtain a nautical chart before heading out into an unknown area.  If you do run aground, stop the engine and check for damage.  You may also be able to push the boat off or use a kedge anchor.
• Proper Seasonal Maintenance – Keeping up with regular maintenance will extend the life of your boat.  Remember to change the oil once a year, inspect belts and hoses, and check for corrosion and oxidation.
• Maximum Capacity – Always make sure that the recommended capacity indicated on the boats’ capacity plate is not exceeded.

Many people don’t’ realize that they can receive compensation for injuries they've suffered in a boating accident.  You may be able to receive compensation to help pay for your medical bills and lost wages.  Our personal injury attorneys will investigate the boater’s homeowner insurance, your own health insurance, and whether or not a civil suit can be brought against the boat captain’s personal assets.

Learn more about boating safety here.  You can also contact the Law Offices of Louis D. Stober Jr. if you have experienced a boating accident.  Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier law firm. Contact our office for a consultation 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.

Father's Day Weekend 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’s Father’s Day weekend!  There are plenty of activities across Long Island to help you celebrate and spend time with your family. 

Father’s Day Buffet

Library Café

274 Main Street, Farmingdale

June 15, 10am-3pm

All you can eat brunch – including Eggs Benedict, buttermilk pancakes, Teas Style French Toast, Scrambled Eggs, Home Fries, fresh fruit, dessert, and more.

Special Father’s Day Lunch Cruise

Delta Lady at Captree State Park

Robert Moses Causeway, Babylon

June 15, 1pm-2:30pm

Enjoy a delicious lunch provided on the Paddlewheeler while viewing the Great South Bay.  Reservations required.

Father’s Day at the Heckscher Museum of Art

Heckscher Museum of Art

2 Prime Avenue, Huntington

June 15, 11am-5pm

Fathers and grandfathers receive free admission to the art museum.  Enjoy over 2100 art collections and take part in educational programs.

Eisenhower Park Family Festival

Eisenhower Park

Field 2, East Meadow

June 14, 1-11pm

Enjoy rides, games, and food.

60^th Annual Mattituk Lions Club Strawberry Festival

Route 48, Mattituck

June 14, 11am-11pm

It’s the peak of strawberry season!  This annual festival offers strawberries in almost any way you can image.  There are also rides, live music, and art vendors at the festival.

Read the full article for more fun Father’s Day weekend activities.  Don't forget that you can also like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for the latest news stories and legal tips.

Fair Labor Standards Act

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 

Image Source: Wikipedia

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) establishes minimum wage, overtime pay, recordkeeping, and youth employment standards.  It is important that employers comply with these regulations to ensure fair employment practices.  Here are a couple of the issues covered under the act.

• Minimum Wage – New York State’s minimum wage increased to $8 an hour on December 31, 2013.  The minimum wage is set to increase to $8.75 per hour on December 31^st, 2014 and to $9.00 per hour on December 31^st, 2015.
• Overtime – Nonexempt employees must receive overtime pay for hours over the 40 hours per workweek.  However, under the FLSA, there is not requirement for overtime on weekends or holidays. 

Read more about the Fair Labor Standards Act on the Department of Labor webpage.

If work-related legal matters are causing you distress, the Law Offices of Louis D. Stober Jr. can help.  We represent the Civil Service Employees Association, the School Administrators Association of New York State, and the Uniform Firefighters Association in Long Beach.  In addition to union members, we also represent individual employees who need an attorney on their side.  Pick up the phone or drop us an email to take the first step. 

Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier law firm. Contact our office for a consultation 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 is Distracted Driving?

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 

Five seconds is the average time your eyes are off the road while texting.  Did you know that at 55 mph, that’s enough time to cover the length of a football field?  Distracted driving occurs any time that you take your eyes off the road.  While there is no federal regulation, New York strictly enforces a ban on all handheld devices, including texting while driving.

Photo Source: Wikipedia

Distracted Driving includes:

• Texting
• Using a Cell Phone or Smartphone
• Eating
• Drinking
• Talking to passengers
• Grooming
• Reading (including maps)
• Using a GPS
• Watching a Video
• Adjusting a Radio, CD player, or MP3 player

Distracted driving can lead to a ticket, fines, points on your license, and a surcharge.   If you find that you are faced with a distracted driving ticket, contact the Law Offices of Louis D. Stober Jr.  Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier law firm. Contact our office for a consultation 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 File a Discrimination Claim

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 

Federal and New York State laws protect you from discrimination by your employer.  If you feel that you have been discriminated against, it is important that you know your rights.  Here are a few things that you should know about filing a discrimination complaint.

Discrimination occurs when you are treated differently in a way that causes an adverse impact to you, based on your race, gender, age, disability, religion, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, etc.  The Labor Department accepts discrimination complaints from those that think a business, organization or office has discriminated against you.

At the Law Offices of Louis D. Stober, we make filing a discrimination claim simple.  Our experienced lawyers are here to represent you and give you intelligent advice on how to approach the issue.  If you feel you have been discriminated against, even if you’re not sure if you have a case, we encourage you to contact our office to talk about it.

Learn more about how to file a discrimination claim on the New York Department of Labor webpage.   You can also contact the Law Offices of Louis D. Stober Jr.  Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier labor and discrimination law firm. Contact our office for a consultation 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 Know When Negotiating a Severance

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 

Before negotiating a severance package, it’s important to talk to an attorney who specializes in employment law.  This can help you better understand the terms of your settlement and provide you with the best possible outcome.  Here are a few tips to keep in mind before you sign a severance agreement.

Severance Package Tips:

• At Will Employment – Most companies follow “at will” employment.  This means that you can be let go at any time without reason.  It is important to understand your contract and any agreements you have made with the company.
• Financial Outcomes – As an informal guideline, most employees receive two weeks of pay for every year they have worked at the company.  However, this varies depending on the circumstances of your termination and your documented work performance.
• Review Your Work History – The overall picture of how well you performed your job can help determine whether or not you have a discrimination case.  If so, you may have grounds for a settlement.
• Company Flexibility – You may be able to time your severance payment in order to maximize what you get in state unemployment benefits.
• References – What you agree to in your separation agreement can affect what is put in writing when future employers check into your work history. 

Learn more about how to negotiate your severance here.  You can also contact the Law Offices of Louis D. Stober Jr.  Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier law firm. Contact our office for a consultation 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.

Cellphone Use, Texting, & How It Affects 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 

New York State law states that you cannot use a hand-held cell phone, send a text, or write an email while you are driving.  This violation can lead to serious fines and points on your license.  Unfortunately, this violation is increasingly common.  These are a few of the dangers of violating NY’s distracted driving and cell phone use laws.

Driver’s License Fines:

• First Offense – A fine of $50 to $150.
• Second Offense – A fine of $50 to $200.
• Third or Subsequent Offense – A fine of $50 to $400.

A second, third, or subsequent offense is one that occurs within 18 months of your first offense.  On top of these fines, there may be an additional surcharge for the violation.  In New York, all offenses committed on or after June 1, 2013 will also carry five driver violation points to your license.  If you receive 11 points in an 18 month period, the DMV may suspend your driver’s license.  Fortunately for drivers, there are programs to reduce and fight points on your license.

Learn more about traffic violations on the DMV website.  You can also contact the Law Offices of Louis D. Stober Jr.  Our experience, combined with our successful track record makes us Long Island’s premier law firm. Contact our office for a consultation 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.