Important Steps Sole Proprietors Can Take As Business Begins to Grow
Leading a business as a sole proprietor is both challenging and rewarding. You are the only person who is responsible for making decisions about the organization, its direction, and whether or not it changes status to an LLC or another type of company. There is no one else to take the hit when something doesn’t […]
What Rights Do Grandparents Have When Parents Refuse Access to Their Grandchildren?
The breakdown in family relations subsequent to divorce goes beyond the relationship of the two direct parties to the divorce. Grandparents are often caught in the crossfire between the spouses. Loving relationships between grandparents and their grandchildren sometimes take the brunt of the collateral damage. What rights do grandparents have when parents refuse access to […]
When Should You Consider Hiring a Birth Injury Lawyer
When a child is born with a congenital disability or birth injury, it can be a stressful time for a family. This scenario is especially true when the injury is the result of negligence on the part of hospital staff, a midwife, or any other medical professional. When should you consider hiring a birth injury […]
What is Conservatorship and What Rights Do Conservators Have?
When a person is unable to make decisions for themselves about important decisions in their life, whether they be legal or financial, the courts may assign a guardian or protector to assist. This relationship between someone with an impairment and substitute adult is known as a “conservatorship” in Massachusetts. But what is a conservatorship and […]
What Is the Statute of Limitations on Filing a Claim After a Traumatic Brain Injury?
In Massachusetts, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is firmly established under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 260, Section 2A. This section sets a standard three-year statute of limitation on filing in most instances of personal injury. What this means is that if you suffer an injury, whether a traumatic brain injury (TBI), slip-and-fall, […]
How Does Adoption Work in Massachusetts?
Adoption is a wonderful process in which a child becomes a member of your family. The laws of adoption in Massachusetts are different in some ways from those in other states. So, how does adoption work in Massachusetts? Adoption in Massachusetts Under Massachusetts law, any adult, or married couple is legally allowed to adopt. Additionally, […]
Why a Pre-Marital Agreement is a Smart Decision to Protect Your Assets and Business
Pre-marital agreements divide people when they’re mentioned. These agreements, however, serve an important role and are a helpful tool to avoid long-term problems. Here’s why a pre-marital agreement is a smart decision to protect your assets and business. What is a Pre-Marital Agreement? A pre-marital agreement, more commonly known as a “prenup”, is a private […]
Everything You Need to Know About Common Law Marriage in Massachusetts
Common law marriage is when a couple is considered wed in the eyes of the government. But, how does it work and is it legal in Massachusetts? Here’s everything you need to know about common law marriage in Massachusetts. Common Law Marriage Marriage is a formal process, requiring a couple to go together to a […]
Pedestrian Safety in the Spring
The snow is finally melting, the breezes are getting warmer and the sun is shining on budding flowers; spring is one of the best times to live in the northeast! Unfortunately, spring brings a new set of issues which pedestrians need to be aware of to stay safe. Here are four pedestrian safety tips to […]
Can Concussions Cause Permanent Damage?
Fans of sports will undoubtedly be aware of concussions and the effects they can have. Many of our favorite athletes have suffered from concussions at some point in their careers, especially if they take part in contact sports such as ice hockey, football, or even motorsports. Concussions can have a wide variety of short-term symptoms […]
The Hidden Dangers of Space Heaters
Many homes in the United States use central heating to keep warm in the winter months. Central heating is an effective, safe way to maintain warm temperatures throughout a home, despite the frosty conditions outside. However, many people still use space heaters to keep warm, either in small rooms, such as bedrooms or if their […]
Winter Sports and Spinal Cord Injuries: The Major Impact on the Body
Winter sports are known for being some of the most invigorating, intense, and enjoyable activities to which people participate. They are also, however, extremely dangerous. According to data collected by the Mayo Clinic, winter sports account for around nine percent of all spinal cord injuries suffered in the United States each year. That’s a significant […]
The Rising Maternal Death Rate in the US: What You Need to Know
We are led to believe that we have the best medical care in the entire world here in the United States. Why then, are death rates for childbirth rising so quickly, while they are continually dropping elsewhere across the globe? What can families do to keep themselves safe from this worrying trend? As maternal death […]
Everything You Need to Know About Obstetrical Malpractice
Medical malpractice is a sad but true reality in the world. The pain and anguish caused through the negligence of a medical practitioner are terrible enough, but when the malpractice directly affects the health and wellbeing of a newborn and its mother, the results of the malpractice can be truly devastating. Medical malpractice concerning prenatal […]
How Expert Witnesses Can Help Your Significant Injuries Claim
When you are injured in an accident, the last thing you want to worry about is having a jury of your peers not believe your claims. Unfortunately, some cases can be dismissed because while the physical pain and injuries may be present, without expert understanding the jury simply doesn’t believe that they exist. In instances […]
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Why Are Dog Bites So Dangerous?
Each year, well over four million people are attacked by dogs in the United States. Many of these bites result in serious injuries. Even worse, nearly half of all those bitten are children. Here’s what you need to know about why dog bites are so dangerous. Dog Bites Can Cause Permanent Injuries While the vast […]
March is Brain Injury Awareness Month: Here’s What You Need to Know to Stay Safe
Brain injuries can happen at any time. Our brains are constantly vulnerable to trauma which can have a huge impact on our ability to live a normal life. Brain injuries can range from the mildest of concussions to severe bruising and bleeding of the brain. Fortunately, there are steps you can take in your everyday […]
When Can I Modify My Spousal Support Agreement?
The decision to dissolve a marriage is usually a difficult and painful one for all parties involved. Beyond the emotional issues, financial issues can compound the stress of the process. Often, one of the partners to the marriage will be facing financial obstacles after the dissolution. Under such circumstances, a spousal support agreement is in […]
What Is a Myocardial Contusion?
Injuries from automotive accidents can be debilitating. From broken bones to injured nerves, the long-term health ramifications from a crash can have a huge impact on the lives of those affected. But what happens when you injure your chest? In serious cases, the injuries to the chest can be far worse than merely broken ribs. […]
Mental Illness and Child Custody in Divorce
Divorce is a stressful process to be endured by all parties to the process. The process is further complicated when one of the parties has mental health issues. When children were produced during the marriage, the issue of mental illness and parenting comes to the forefront of the marriage dissolution procedure. While mental illness is […]
What to Do If You Are a Victim of Stalking During Divorce
One of the sad realities of our day and age is stalking. So, what exactly is stalking? To paraphrase the definition given by Dictionary.com, stalking is unwanted following related to the act of pursuing or harassing. If you have been divorced, the likelihood of you being stalked by your ex is higher than the average. […]
Car Accidents While on the Job: What to Know About Third Party Liability Claims
Car Accidents on the Job Automobiles have been around over 100 years. Their introduction into society truly revolutionized how we get from place to place and experience the world. Of course, the beginning of automobile travel brought with it the beginning of a common occurrence not so pleasant – the car accident. According to the […]
Why Parking Lots Are One of the Biggest Hazards in Wintertime
Most drivers will agree that driving in the winter presents more obstacles than the rest of the year. The inclement weather with its snow and ice definitely make for a more challenging drive. Those challenges are not confined to the local streets and highways, but also come into play at the local parking lot. That […]
How Mediation Can Solve Many of Your Biggest Family Law Issues
What is Mediation? Human interaction is at the foundation of our existence as a society. Unfortunately, as an inevitable result of this interaction, disagreements between people will arise. In ancient times, disputes were often resolved through fighting and battles. As modern society has evolved, we have developed more civilized ways to deal with dispute resolution. […]
My Vape Pen Exploded. Who is Liable?
Vaping and e-cigarettes are the latest crazes it seems. They’re all over the news, and everyone from teenagers to the elderly seems to enjoy the ease-of-use and refillable-nature of these unique smoking devices. While many enjoy e-cigarettes and vape pens, however, they are still tobacco products and are extremely harmful to the user’s health. This […]
Protect Yourself from Black Ice This Winter
Winter has returned with a vengeance. As usual, the return of winter is accompanied by inclement weather and the return of slip and fall accidents that result from the snow and ice. While adults and children may differ on their love for snow in the winter, the season also brings another hazard that none of […]
What to Do if You are Injured in a Slip and Fall at the Supermarket
At one time or another, all of us have experienced a slip and fall. Sometimes an injury is the result of a slip and fall. According to Government statistics, slips and falls account for about nine million visits to emergency rooms throughout the country every year. While slip and falls occur in different settings, today […]
What Your Divorce Lawyer Wants You to Tell Them
Having to end a marriage, no matter how short or long it may have lasted, is never a situation you want to find yourself in. But, as people grow and the marriage matures, sometimes it becomes painfully obvious that you were not meant to stay together. Under Massachusetts family law, navigating this process can be […]
Is Riding a Motorcycle in the Winter Safe?
As any motorcycle enthusiast will tell you, there is little that compares to the thrill and feeling of freedom that comes from riding a motorcycle. The freedom of the open road is unfortunately accompanied by an increased risk of injury from motorcycle accidents. In addition, this risk increases further during the winter months. Defensive driving […]
How to Get Full Custody of Your Children in Massachusetts
After becoming a parent, keeping your child safe becomes an instinct. You’ll do whatever it takes to ensure your kids remain protected, which could be a major part of your child custody battle during a divorce. Of course, under Massachusetts family law, getting full custody of your children is not always an easy task. If […]
The Possibility for an Appeal After a High Net Asset Divorce
There’s really no such thing as planning ahead of time for a divorce. Whether it’s the culmination of an incompatible marriage, the discovery of infidelity, or a life-changing event that brings it to the forefront, you didn’t enter into marriage expecting you’d need to learn anything about divorce law. When the time does arrive, it’s […]
Personal Injury: Common Hand Injuries in Slip and Fall Cases
At one time or another, all of us have experienced a slip and fall. Now the holiday season and the winter weather that accompanies it have arrived. Those beautiful snowfalls and subsequent icy streets and sidewalks present us with more ways to suffer a slip and fall injury. According to Government statistics, slip and falls […]
Can Mothers be Ordered to Pay Child Support or Alimony?
Going through a divorce is never easy for either partner. Whether it was mutual or you or your spouse initiated the divorce, no one plans to go through this legal process. Of course, as you get the process started, a lot of unexpected questions can arise. Among those questions, you might be curious about your […]
Personal Injury: What is Wrongful Death?
Losing a loved one is one of the worst things imaginable. But what if their death was the result of the negligence of another individual or entity? Under Massachusetts law, you may be able to sue for damages under a wrongful death action. But, what is “wrongful death?” What Is Wrongful Death? Wrongful death is […]
Adultery and Divorce: What You Need to Know
One of the most painful ways to end a marriage is finding out your spouse has committed adultery. There’s no questioning that this sort of action goes against everything marriage is built upon, and it is a complete betrayal. Having to endure the pain of knowing your spouse was cheating on you cannot easily be […]
Truck Accidents: Who Should Victims Hold Accountable
Truck accidents can be very devastating on the part of the victim. Most trucks weigh more than 10,000 pounds, which is why an accident involving this specific kind of vehicle can cause serious damage. In 2012, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recorded more than 3,900 cases of death caused by truck accidents. The victims […]
Common Same-Sex Couples Family Law Issues
After a hard day’s work, there’s nothing more rewarding than returning home to your family and enjoying the evening today. Whether it’s with your children or just you and your partner, no one should ever claim your family is any less important than his or her own. However, the unfortunate reality for same-sex couples in […]
Everything You Need to Know About Snow, Ice and Sidewalk Liability
December is that time of year when we wish friends and relatives alike, “Happy Holidays.” This is also that time of year when slipping and falling due to inclement weather returns with a vengeance. Welcome back to winter and those slips and falls due to ice and snow. What a good time to discuss the […]
Car Accidents and Traumatic Brain Injury
Traumatic brain injuries can completely shift the course of a person’s life. It is an incredibly serious injury, and it requires immediate and complex medical care. In some instances, the family of the victim needs to make decisions that will change their everyday routine. A drastic change in one’s lifestyle can also be one of […]
Tips for Driving Safe in Snowy Weather
Driving in the winter can be downright terrifying – especially if you don’t know the right techniques and tricks of the trade. Here at the Shapiro Law Group, we want you and your family to be safe and secure this winter season. Here are some helpful tips for driving safe in snowy weather. Tips for […]
Slip and Fall vs. Trip and Fall Accidents: What’s the Difference?
Nothing about a personal injury is pleasant. From missing work to paying hospital bills, overcoming an injury isn’t easy. While some might have you believe you will only struggle post-injury, the truth is that you can fight for just compensation after an injury with an experienced personal injury attorney on your side. Whether your injury […]
When Should You Settle a Personal Injury Claim?
Some people may be hesitant about the option of receiving a personal injury claim. They may have concerns about admitting they would lose in court or getting less than what their claim is worth. However, while it is true that not every case benefits from settling out of court, the option does have its advantages. […]
The Different Types of Personal Injury Damages in Massachusetts
Being injured is never fun. The pain and anguish can become overwhelming at times. Fortunately for those who are injured, Massachusetts law allows for the awarding of damages to those who have suffered due to the negligence of others. But, what are the different types of personal injury damages in Massachusetts? Actual Damages Actual damages, […]
How Seriously does Massachusetts Treat Distracted Driving?
Knowing how to drive is a life skill and is necessary in today’s world. But while driving gets you places very efficiently, it also comes with numerous responsibilities. But many drivers focus on more than the road when they’re behind the wheel. Distracted driving is the cause of many accidents. All states have laws that […]
How Can You Calculate Pain and Suffering?
Being involved in any sort of accident can be traumatizing. While most of your wounds might heal, the time spent recovering and the memories of the accident can leave you with both short and long-term repercussions. Sure, you can seek immediate recovery for your medical expenses from the insurance of the responsible party, and you […]
Information You Should Gather at the Time of a Motor Vehicle Accident
If you are involved in a car accident, would you know what to do right after the collision? How you react could determine possible consequences, such as personal injury lawsuits or insurance claims. If you feel you are not at fault, the best way to boost your assertion is to gather all the necessary facts […]
Modified Comparative Negligence Laws in Massachusetts
In addition to the potential effects on your health, getting involved in a car or motorcycle accident can be a heavy burden on your finances. Medical treatment for any injuries sustained in the accident can be expensive, and it can be even more costly and lengthy if the injuries are severe. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts […]
Lesser-known Safety Tips for New Motorcycle Riders
Motorcycle riding can be thrilling, exciting, and freeing. It looks hot and feels cool. But riding a motorcycle is also dangerous. According to the Insurance Information Institute, motorcyclists were 28 times more likely to die in a crash than automobile occupants. That’s why safety is paramount. Here are some lesser-known motorcycle safety tips from a […]
Massachusetts Slip and Fall Accidents: Dealing with Premises Liability
The idea of a slip and fall injury may sound odd to those whose only experiences with losing their balance have involved scraped knees and immediate recovery. However, these injuries can be quite serious: in 2013, the National Fall Safety Institute reported that they comprised 12% of all emergency room visits. Parts of your body […]
The Parent’s Guide to Grandparents’ Rights in Massachusetts
Dealing with in-laws can be tough, and we get that. If you have formed a bond with your ex-husband’s family, it can be difficult to lose ties with them during the divorce. On the other hand, sometimes in-laws are so toxic that you do not want them anywhere near your child. Your child’s grandparents may […]
Preconceived Intent – Is the 30/60 Day Rule Dead? Immigration News
One of the more difficult concepts when reviewing a potential new immigrant’s chances for applying for permanent residence in the United States is that of preconceived intent. When applying for a temporary visa in the United States, a person must actually have an intention to remain in the United States on a temporary basis and […]
Supreme Court’s Decision in Trump v. International Refugee Assistance Project
A New Look on the Travel Ban The Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) issued a decision last week in Trump v. International Refugee Assistance Project, et. al. that overruled prior decisions affecting the “Travel Ban” Executive Orders. In short, SCOTUS ruled the following: The Travel Ban is Back, Unless There is a Connection with United States […]
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti May Conclude on July 22, 2017
In a recent announcement, the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS), the division of the Department of Homeland Security responsible for processing the majority of immigration applications within the United States, recommended the conclusion of the TPS program for Haitians. Temporary Protected Status is a temporary humanitarian measure that allows certain foreign nationals to remain […]
Boston Police Officer Prepares Handicap Discrimination Suit For Trial
When the Boston Police Department arrived at the door of fellow officer Sean Gannon on February 1, 2006, suspicions arose. Sean Gannon began working for the Boston police department in 1996. For the first ten years of his employment, Gannon dutifully worked as a patrol officer. When Gannon was not on patrol, he was an […]
Supreme Judicial Court Qualifies Right to Appointed Counsel for Indigent Probate Court Litigants
The right to counsel is a cornerstone of American constitutional law. In a recent decision, the Supreme Judicial Court of Massachusetts has qualified that right as applied to indigent guardians. Historically, Massachusetts Courts have observed that a parent whose minor child is the subject of a guardianship petition pursuant to G. L. c. 190B, § […]
Tax Conveniences: Paying and Filing
The Internal Revenue Service has announced that taxpayers who need to make a payment in cash can now do so at 7-Eleven convenience stores across the United States. While it may seem like an unusual arrangement, it caters to a large number of Americans who do not have a bank account or credit card. The […]
Considerations Before Filing Your 2016 Tax Returns
Overall, the methodology and approach to filing your 2016 tax returns will be quite comparable to that of 2015. Nonetheless, there are important bits of information you should be aware of: Taxpayers will again be given three additional days to file since April 15 falls on a non-business day (Saturday). The deadline is now April […]
The Value of Contributing to Retirement Accounts
If you have not already done so, it is an excellent idea to fund your retirement account for 2016 (specifically by April 17, 2017). April 17, 2017 is the deadline for contributions to an IRA (traditional), whether deductible or not. This is also the deadline for a Roth IRA. If you have a Keogh or […]
Four Common Tax Myths Debunked
As we approach “tax day” there is often misinformed chatter about what is acceptable when filing your taxes. There are rumors out there about various deductions and loopholes that can potentially get you into trouble if followed. Here are a few: 1. Filing Taxes are non-mandatory. Believe it or not, there are a considerable number […]
