How to Throw a Safe Super Bowl Party

 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 to celebrate the Super Bowl this Sunday?  Which team will you be rooting for?  

If you plan on having friends and family over to celebrate, here are a few safety tips to make sure that your party goes smoothly.

Super Bowl Safety Tips:

• Designate a Driver - If you know that you or someone who is visiting will be driving, make sure there is a designated driver available.  Call a cab or have someone pick you up if you know that you are going to be drinking.  
• Secure Your TV - Make sure that your TV is secured to a wall or placed on a stable piece of furniture.  
• Keep Toxic Drinks Away from Pets - If you have any cats or dogs make sure that alcohol, chips, dip and other toxic items are well out of reach.

Remember to be safe if you plan on driving to a friend or family member's house for a Super Bowl party this Sunday.  Be aware of any drivers that exhibit signs of driving while intoxicated.  Stay safe and have fun this weekend!

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.

Health Risks of Working Over Night Shifts

Do you work over night shifts?  You're not alone.  Nearly 15 million Americans work at night, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.  Unfortunately, working against your natural clock could put your health at risk.  New studies show that there are many health risks associated with working over night.

Long-Term Effects:

• Cardiovascular Disease - There is a correlation between those that work over night and the risk of heart attack and heart disease.
• Obesity - It can be difficult to maintain a healthy diet when working over night shifts.  Workers may be more prone to snacking on junk food than sitting down for a nutritious meal.  In addition to a poor diet, it can be hard to find time to exercise regularly with an over night schedule.
• Mood Disorders - Working at different hours than your friends and family might cause social isolation.  In addition to the change in social habits, night workers also have less serotonin, the chemical that is responsible for keeping you happy.
• Fertility Problems - Shift work can affect a woman's reproductive system.  

Read more about the studies here and the effects that working over night shifts can have on your overall health.

In the unfortunate event you experience any on the job injuries as a result of working an over night shift, contact our office.  Our experienced attorneys can help you address all of your concerns and insure all of the proper legal measures are taken.

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 Is Uncontested Divorce?

 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 and your spouse have made the difficult decision to end your marriage and you are able to agree on most major issues, you may be able to file for uncontested divorce.

When Can You File Uncontested Divorce:

• There are no disagreements over financial issues, child custody and support, division of marital property or spousal support.
• Your spouse agrees to the divorce, or fails to appear in the divorce action.

Divorce law can be complicated.  While there are DIY websites and companies that offer fast and inexpensive alternatives to working directly with an attorney, they are often too good to be true.  It's important to understand your rights and your options.  Our attorneys make sure that you don't risk losing certain rights stemming from a relationship that aren't readily apparent to someone who is not an attorney.

Watch our YouTube video to learn more about uncontested divorce:

Our experienced attorneys can help you make sure that all of the proper forms are filled out.  We will help you understand your settlement options and ensure you fully understand your rights.

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.

Estate Planning Tips to Keep In Mind

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

When was the last time you took a look at your estate plan?  It's important to keep your estate plan updated.  Here are a few tips to to help you stay ahead.

Estate Planning Tips:

• Take Another Look - Always go back and reexamine your estate plan after any major change in your life.  
• Focus on Income Tax - Only the top 1% of wealthy individuals will be subject to federal estate tax.  This is an important consideration in your plans.
• Talk to Your Children - Let your kids know about your estate plan.  It's important that they have a good understanding of what will happen with your finances.
• Determine How to Distribute Assets - Don't assume that your family members will be able to amicably work things out.  Including your assets in your estate plan will help to eliminate problems in the future.

Read this article for more estate planning tips or contact our office to go over your estate.  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.

Tips to Help Make Snow Shoveling Easy

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

Even just a few inches of snow can be a chore to shovel.  Be careful if you are shoveling today!  Here are a few tips to help make managing snow easier.

Snow Shoveling Tips:

• Stretch Beforehand -You might not realize it until afterwards, but even a small amount of shoveling can be a workout.  Take a few minutes to stretch before and after shoveling to help prevent injury.
• Use the Right Amount of Salt - Using too much salt means that it can track into your house.  Less is more!  Use the right amount of salt to keep your walkways clear.
• Create a Strategy - Clean off your cars before getting to the rest of your driveway.  On days where snow fall is heavy, avoid shoveling the same snow more than once.  Move the snow the shortest distance possible.

Read this article from longisland.com for more snow shoveling tips.  

If you experience any weather related personal injury this winter, give us a call. 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.

Tips for Driving Safely in the Snow

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 might be some snow on Long Island this week.  According to the National Weather Service, we can expect light snow and single digit temperatures by Thursday.  Remember to be cautious when driving in snow and ice this week.

Here are a few tips to help you prepare for winter driving on Long Island roads tomorrow.

Winter Driving Tips:

• Drive Slowly - Accelerating and braking takes longer on snowy and icy roads.  Give yourself time to maneuver by driving slowly.
• Know Your Brakes - Know how well you are able to brake.  Whether or not you have antilock brakes, you should stop using threshold braking. 
• Don't Accelerate Up Hills - Applying extra gas on snow-covered roads can cause your wheels to spin.  Try to accelerate before you reach the hill and reduce your speed as you reach the top.

Visit Newsday more information on the upcoming weather or visit AAA for more tips on how to drive safely in the snow.

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.

Tips to Help You Spot Drunk Drivers in 2015

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

We hope everyone had safe and happy New Years celebrations!  

Although the holidays are over, it's still important to stay alert and drive responsibly.  Here are a few tips to help you spot drunk drivers and have a happy, safe and healthy 2015.

Signs of Drunk Driving:

• Quick acceleration
• Erratic Breaking
• Driving with headlights off
• Drifting in and out of lanes
• Swerving
• Slow response time

For more tips on how to spot drunk drivers this year, check out this article from patch.com.  

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.