Author Archives: Maurice J. Verrillo
New York Drug Treatment Courts Offer Relief to Accused Individuals With Substance Addictions
Despite decades of harsh drug laws in New York and elsewhere, substance addiction still causes widespread death and misery. Many authorities and experts have concluded that long prison sentences are not the best solution for some individuals convicted of drug crimes, and might even make things worse for people struggling with the abuse of controlled […]
New York Legislators Still Considering “Kyra’s Law” to Revise Child Custody Standards
Any child custody dispute has the potential to become contentious and emotional. When one parent alleges that the other poses a threat to the child they share, the situation can become even more heated. Judges are put in a situation where they must balance the well-being of the youth against a parent’s right to spend […]
Deadly Driving Bill Would Make it Easier for New York to Prosecute Allegedly Drug-Impaired Motorists
Traditionally, enforcement of impaired-driving laws hinged on the result of breathalyzer tests or other methods of determining a motorist’s blood-alcohol concentration (BAC). Though these tests are not perfect and can be tainted by poor administration or the sloppy handling of samples, they provide a measurable reading of whether a driver exceeded the applicable level of […]
State’s Court of Appeals Clarifies What Triggers a No-Contest Clause
Many people who want to be sure that their estate planning wishes will be honored include no-contest provisions in their wills and trusts. Also known as in terrorem clauses, these instructions are designed to deter beneficiaries from contesting the legality of a testamentary instrument by preventing someone who issues a challenge from collecting what was […]
Bill Aims to Establish Shared Parenting Presumption in New York
Around the country, states have taken different approaches as to whether laws governing child custody should encourage shared parenting. Generally, shared parenting jurisdictions start with a rebuttable presumption that parenting time should be split equally and legal custody should be granted jointly when parents who no longer live together. While this might sound ideal, there […]
Should You Change Your Plans Due to the Potential Reduction in the Estate Tax Exemption?
Many people associate prudent estate planning with the creation of a will or trust. However, no one should stop paying attention to estate planning once they’ve signed their documents. In some cases, life changes, such as a divorce, estrangement or new child, compel a shift in priorities. Other times, legal developments might justify revisions. When […]
State Reduces Number of Drunk-Driving Convictions Required for License Forfeiture
In New York and around the country, state legislatures continue to seek ways to reduce the incidence of driving while intoxicated. Penalties for motorists who operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs have increased over time, and now there is a new focus on multiple offenders. A law recently enacted here makes […]
New York Launches Simplified Process for Uncontested Joint Divorces
For many years, New York was the last state that would not allow no-fault divorce. This forced many husbands and wives to make dubious allegations of misconduct against their spouses even when the truth was that it was simply for the best that the parties go their separate ways. Finally, in 2010, the state authorized […]
Injuries Frequently Caused by Wintertime Accidents
Wintertime brings an increased risk of slips and falls due to icy and snowy conditions, often leading to serious injuries. Understanding these common injuries and the importance of prompt medical evaluation and legal consultation is crucial for effective recovery and potential compensation. The following are some of the most common injuries suffered in winter accidents: […]
Bringing Up the Topic of Estate Planning With Your Parents
Talking to parents about estate planning can be a sensitive conversation, but it may become necessary. It involves planning not only for distribution of wealth upon death but also for providing for their well-being and guarding against the expenses of possible disability during their later years. Approaching this topic with empathy, respect and preparation will […]
