Collecting debts can be frustrating and difficult, especially when the debtor takes actions to protect their assets from collection. There are laws that set forth procedures that can be used to collect on debts, however these laws can be confusing for many. If you are owed a debt and need assistance with collection efforts, then contact a debt collection attorney for assistance.  

How can an attorney assist with debt collection?
 
An attorney will know the various legal tools that are available to help you collect your debt. Many of these require strict compliance with certain procedures in order to be used. Failure to comply with the required procedures could result in penalties or inability to collect. Some methods with which an attorney can assist include: 

  • Liens
  • Garnishment
  • Writs of execution and attachment
  • Judgment
  • Debtor examinations

Debt collection may be subject to rules under the Fair Debt Collection Act, so it is important to comply with the restrictions set forth under that law. 

Why use an attorney instead of a collection agency? 

Collection agencies typically utilize only limited methods of collection. They also have fees and may keep a certain percentage of funds collected. This can significantly limit the amount you actually receive. 

An attorney will be able to help you identify the most cost-efficient way to collect on the debt. They will help you develop a strategy that is specific to your situation. This will be more efficient than using a collection agency. Through an attorney, you will improve your chances of recovering funds in a timely manner. 

Contact Fairfield attorneys from Faloni & Associates 

If you are owed money, contact Faloni & Associates to learn what options are available. Our Fairfield attorneys will review your options and help you develop a strategy to most efficiently collect the debt. Contact us to schedule a consultation.

The post Why You Need an Attorney to Help Collect on Your Debts appeared first on Faloni Law Group.

Many individuals are under the impression that a well thought out will is all that is needed to assure the long-term security of their families in the event of an untimely death. Many of these individuals would be surprised to learn that carefully selecting a power of attorney, that can manage issues as needed while still alive, may be of even greater importance.

Power of Attorney Defined

A power of attorney is someone that will act on behalf of the individual and tend to pertinent matters such as finance and medical care in the event the individual becomes incapacitated and is unable to act on his or her own. This position comes with much power as well as responsibility; deciding on the right power of attorney is of great importance. Individuals that are considering appointing a power of attorney should concentrate on four key issues:

Trust

Trust is the single most important factor in this decision-making process. Individuals should be certain the power of attorney chosen truly has their best interests at heart.

Age and Location

It is best for the power of attorneys to live near the individual in case situations arise that will need their immediate attention. It is also important that the candidate not be of an advanced age that makes them more likely to become deceased before the individual, or too young to possess the life experiences they will need to draw upon to fulfill the role.

Capabilities

Careful attention should be paid to the intellectual ability and financial understanding of candidates for power of attorney. Even when all other qualities are present, a power of attorney without the financial literacy to properly manage finances is a poor choice for your power of attorney.

Family Situation

Every family has conflicts among its members. The ability of individuals to get along with family members should be taken into account when considering them for power of attorney duties.

What to Do

The proper selection and implementation of a power of attorney is a complex matter that can have life-altering consequences for a number of people. A skilled and competent attorney should be consulted to help with this matter.

Our trusted and skilled Fairfield NJ estate planning attorneys at Faloni Law Group possess the necessary expertise to execute all things pertaining to estate planning. Individuals in need of these services should contact Faloni Law Group for a private consultation.

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Once a certain point in life is reached, estate planning becomes very important. At this time, not only are plans made to give something special to loved ones, but certain roles and authorities are designated to individuals within the family. As estate planning takes place there are a number of parts to be included so that a thorough plan can be executed at the right time. During this time, it is a great idea to contact legal professionals that can guide you along this process. The attorneys at the Faloni Law Group are a top choice of estate planning attorneys in Fairfield NJ and can ensure that all of your wishes are included in your estate plan.

Important Points of Inclusion

While estate planning has many crucial parts, there are 3 main things that every plan should include:

  • Will/Trust.
    A will is a document that states how your assets will be distributed upon death and who is responsible for giving out such assets. A trust takes effect the moment it’s created and requires a named trustee to allocate the property where stated.
  • Power of Attorney.
    This authority is given to a named individual or entity which allows them to make legal or financial decisions on behalf of someone else. This should be someone who is trustworthy and will work in the best interest of the person granting this authority.
  • Designation of a Guardian.
    In the event that a person becomes incapacitated, a guardian will make decisions on their behalf. This is very important because such decisions can include those regarding the life and well-being of this person, as well as the estate. Before this person is added to the estate plan, aspects of care and choices related to all parts of the estate should be discussed in detail to ensure that the wants and needs of the person granting this authority are met.

Given the complex nature of estate planning, the assistance of an attorney should be sought at the beginning of this process. At Faloni Law Group, the wishes of the clients are top priority and we will answer any questions related to this procedure. Our highly skilled estate planning attorneys in Fairfield NJ are available to offer a consultation for this service.

The post Don’t Forget These 3 Things in Your Estate Plan appeared first on Faloni Law Group.

Every year, there are thousands of traffic accidents involving buses taking place on our nation’s roads. While the vast majority of these collisions are minor and only involve limited material damage, some of them are a lot more serious. As buses are a lot bigger and heavier than other vehicles, they can cause extensive damages in an accident. Fairfield personal injury attorneys at Faloni Law Group have seen cases of motorists being seriously injured in accidents involving public transit, school, or long-distance buses. We understand how difficult such cases can be and are here to help you receive the compensation you deserve.

What to Do If You Were Involved in an Accident with a Bus

The most important thing to do is to keep all of the documents related to the accident, such as police reports, witness statements, medical bills and invoices for repairs to your car. This is especially important if you were seriously injured and have extensive medical bills or have had to take time off work as a result of the accident.

After you’ve put together all of the documents related to the accident, you should quickly contact an experienced attorney specializing in bus accidents. An attorney can help you see whether you are able to get compensation for your injuries and how much you can expect to receive.

Getting Compensation for Your Injuries

If you were in an accident where the bus was at fault, you may be able to get compensation for your injuries. Many bus accidents are caused by drivers that are tired or distracted, as well as by buses that are poorly maintained. Fairfield personal injury attorneys can do a thorough evaluation of your case to determine who was really at fault for the accident.

Cases involving bus accidents are often quite complex, which is why it’s highly recommended that you hire an attorney instead of handling things on your own. Faloni Law Group has represented clients injured in traffic accidents for several decades. We can help you by evaluating your case, giving you valuable legal advice, and helping you obtain the compensation that you’re eligible for. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.

The post In an Accident with a Bus? What You Should Do Next appeared first on Faloni Law Group.

Having a legal written document for distributing assets after death is a given for most people. Until then, we go about our day with plans for how we will live our lives. Far from our minds is what to do when we are still alive, but unable to make our own decisions.

This is where a living will become beneficial to helping our loved ones ensure our desires are upheld. A living will be a document that outlines specific instructions for how medical decisions will be made on your behalf if you are unable to communicate those wishes.

Princeton,  NJ estate planning attorneys at the Law Offices of Faloni Law Group can put those desires in writing. This helps you and your loved ones avoid confusion and misunderstandings about the medical care you should receive.

Here are a few reasons why you should contact a law firm experienced and knowledgeable in New Jersey estate planning law.

Instruct the Hospital on What to Do

Without instructions, the hospital is obligated to keep you on life support indefinitely. Your family is left to absorb hefty medical expenses as a result. An attorney can combine legal and medical terms, so the medical staff knows the type of care to give in an emergency or death.

Final Decisions are Clear

Regrettably, you cannot give instructions on when to turn off life support systems when you are in a comatose state. A living will includes a medical power of attorney to assign the person you trust to have legal authority in making a final decision.

Doctors Follow Your Wishes

Doctors are trained to make instant decisions about patient care. However, an advance directive puts you in control of the care you should receive, not the doctor. This document obligates the doctor to put aside their medical training and do what you want done.

Emotions can run high when family members see their loved ones incapacitated. Fairfield NJ estate planning attorneys will make sure your wishes are granted every step of the way.

The Law Offices of Faloni Law Group can draft a living will that gives you peace of mind. You can have confidence that no matter what happens, emergency instructions are followed. Contact our office to begin drafting your will and speak to our experienced attorneys.

The post The Benefits of a Living Will appeared first on Faloni Law Group.

Motor vehicle accidents in the state of New Jersey have been steadily rising, this year reaching a high of  273,473 reported crashes. Finding yourself involved in any type of car accident can be a frightening and strenuous experience and seeking out legal consultation should be a key priority. Whether you’re the victim or the perpetrator of the event, it is imperative that you become well-versed in your lawful rights by finding reputable representation like the skillful team at the Faloni Law Group. The firm has been fighting for the rights of injured people for over 50 years resulting in millions in settlements and verdicts.

The Most Common Causes of Accidents in New Jersey

The top three reasons for motor vehicle crashes in the Garden State are:

  • Distracted driving
  • Speeding
  • Drunk driving

Distracted driving is the act of participating in any activity that diverts your attention away from the road in front of you. The rates of distracted driving crashes are becoming more and more prevalent due to the increased popularity of handheld technology. In fact, over  391,000  people in New Jersey find themselves in accidents related to handheld devices on an annual basis. Speeding and drunk driving follow close in line, being the second and third most common causes for accidents in the state of New Jersey. Both of these causes are considered a public safety risk by the state, so it is best to retain a reputable Princeton NJ auto accident attorney such as the Law Offices of Faloni Law Group to help you gain rightful compensation.

How Can an Attorney Help Me Successfully Obtain Justice?

In the event of a crash due to the causes previously mentioned, you may be entitled to a reimbursement of medical bills, lost wages, or even compensation for pain and suffering. An experienced attorney has the expertise and resources to help you in the path to acquiring the highest level of justice. If you’re looking for a reputable Princeton NJ auto accident attorney, call Faloni Law Group  at (866)-456-9668 to set up a consultation. There is no fee unless we recoup money for your damages.

The post 3 Common Causes to New Jersey Car Accidents appeared first on Faloni Law Group.

Congratulations to new homeowners! Now that you have signed all the paperwork, consult a New Jersey real estate attorney to review your documents and help you close title to your potential home. Below are tips to things you should do after signing:

  1. A misplaced signature or overlooked clause can spell trouble if not caught early. An experienced attorney can ensure all the documents are complete and that your interests in the new home are adequately protected within the applicable statute of limitations.
  2. Before you incur any expense of inspections or mortgage applications, check with a Fairfield NJ attorney to verify that the contract and any addendum’s have been signed by all parties. Tell us of any agreements between you and the sellers regarding personal property, repairs, change of closing dates, or any other matters not contained in the contract.
  3. Diary all contingency dates, such as: Termite, Home Inspection, Septic Inspection, Well Inspection and Mortgage contingency dates.  Communicate with your real estate agent regarding the scheduling of all inspections and mortgage applications.  If any of the dates cannot be met, contact this office immediately so that we may request an extension.  Failure to meet these deadlines may result in a waiver of the contingency.
  4. If any of the inspections reveal defects, communicate with this office immediately. Attempt to obtain written estimates for repair of the defective condition.  Your realtor may be helpful in obtaining estimates.  Promptly submit these written estimates to this office, so that we may communicate them to the seller’s attorney and attempt to resolve who and how much is to be contributed by each party.  Your realtor can assist you in negotiating disputed repairs.
  5. Prior to closing, make arrangements through the realtor to establish utilities in your name.
  6. Prior to closing, you must obtain a homeowner’s insurance policy and supply this office and the lender with a copy. The legal name and correct address for the lending institution and yourself must appear on the policy.  The amount of insurance must be at least equal to the amount borrowed.  It is suggested that the insurance be for at least the purchase price or fair market value, whichever is greater.  Discuss with your insurance agent additional insurance for your personal property, domestic help, and other insurance needs.  Contact this office for exact instructions on the homeowner’s insurance requirements.  The policy must be in effect on the date of closing.  Your lending institution may require an original policy and paid receipt prior to releasing funds for closing.
  7. Do not make repairs or move property into your new home until after closing.
  8. The day before closing, this office will contact you with the amount of funds you will require at closing, if any. You must bring to the closing certified funds.  The lending institution will not release any closing figures until approximately 24 hours before closing.  Do not contact this office prior to the day before to obtain closing figures.
  9. You must make arrangements through the realtor to conduct a walk-through inspection on the day of the closing. At the time of the walk-through inspection, check all heating, electrical, plumbing and septic systems, as well as appliances.  After the closing you cannot complain of defects, nor will any defects be corrected after the closing.
  10. Any disputes arising after the closing, which require the services of this office, will be billed at an hourly rate consistent with our current hourly rates for civil matters.
  11. Be prepared for unanticipated delays in closing. The closing date is an anticipated date only; although every effort will be made to close on this date, it is not always possible.

If you or a loved one are struggling with closing your transaction or other issues that may have arised, contact your local and experienced New Jersey real estate attorney to determine your best next step. Contact our office today to discuss your available options.

The post Congrats Homeowner! Things to Do After Signing appeared first on Faloni Law Group.

How Common Are Falls?

It is estimated that 2.8 million people are injured in a fall each year. Older Americans are more likely to be hurt by a fall. 80,000 people are hospitalized each year due to a fall. If you or a loved one have been injured, contact your local Fairfield personal injury attorney at Faloni Law Group to discuss your case.

Who are Responsible for Slip and Fall Injuries?

In many cases, a negligent party can be held responsible for the slip and fall injuries of another person. If a person’s fall is caused by negligence, then they should not have to pay for their own medical bills and lost wages. Commonly, property owners are held responsible for a person’s slip and fall injuries. For example, you are shopping at a store. The floor is wet, and you end up falling. The store can be held responsible. They are responsible for putting out a wet sign. They are also responsible for making sure that the floor is in good condition.

Private homeowners can also be held responsible for a slip and fall accident that occurs at their homes. For example, if someone falls as the result of rickety steps, then the homeowner can be held responsible. The homeowner can also be held responsible for a slip and fall injury that occurs near a pool.

Homeowners insurance can usually cover slip and fall accidents that occur on a person’s property. Many people are reluctant to file a lawsuit against their family member or friend. However, the results of a slip and fall accident can be catastrophic. It can also result in a person having to pay thousands of dollars in medical expenses. That is why filing a lawsuit is often necessary.

Contact Faloni & Associates

It is in your best interest to hire a Fairfield personal injury attorney if you have been hurt in a slip and fall accident. The last thing that you will have to worry about is how you are going to pay your medical bills. You will be able to focus on your recovery while we help you get compensation. Contact our office today to discuss your case and determine your next best step.

The post Who’s Liable When You Slip and Fall? appeared first on Faloni Law Group.

Probate is the legal process by which a state court or court appointed agency supervises the distribution of a deceased estate-holder’s property. Probate may be done if there is a will or if there is not a will an estate will need to be administered through the court or court appointed agency. The probate process is often necessary and occasionally mandatory, depending on the particular state’s laws regarding estates and inheritances. Having an estate planning attorney in New Jersey by your side can help you understand if you or your loved ones having probate is best, as well as the next step to take in the process.

When deciding whether or not to start a probate case, many factors have to be taken into account. For example, if a person dies “intestate,” meaning they have no will and no controlling entity for their estate, probate is often triggered automatically to ensure the deceased’s property is fairly distributed to whomever it should be. Also it should be noted that by probating you will cut off the time when creditor’s claims can be filed which limits liability of the executor.  If you are facing a decision to probate or administer an estate you should consult with an attorney or Law Firm like Faloni Law Group, LLC to find out your rights because as executor you could be held personally liable if mistakes are made.  If a probate is filed and you have and you have not been notified or have been left out of the process it is vital to contact Faloni Law Group, LLC and time is of the essence because it attorney’s fees could be charged directly to you in the event the Will is contested.

Real Estate
If the deceased owns even a minority stake in any kind of real estate, and you are a beneficiary, it is vital for you to retain the services of a qualified attorney from a firm like Faloni and Associates, and file a probate case immediately. If a case has already been filed, you should consult with your attorney to determine how best to preserve your rights, up to and including contesting the will.  An estate planning attorney in New Jersey will tell you that real estate law is one of the most complex legal areas especially when probate or estate .

Debt 

If the estate has any significant debts, it will likely be a good idea at some point to consult an attorney or law firm like Faloni Law Group, LLC as not all debts can be collected directly from an estate, especially if an entity like a trust is in place.  It is important to find out what debts are subject to a write off on income and inheritance taxes so the firm can save you from overpaying on your taxes.
Taxes 

Even if you don’t encounter any major debts, hire an attorney to make certain all the taxes are covered both for the estate and for any beneficiaries. Make no assumptions about this process, as estate taxes, inheritance taxes and income e taxes are all intertwined and can be an intractable nightmare.

One of the key functions of probate is to navigate through all these various financial and legal matters by taking advantage of the orderly processes of the court. Faloni Law Group, LLC has experienced attorneys ready to help you with your probate process and ensure that it is the correct option for you. Contact our office today to discuss your case.

The post Do I Need Probate? appeared first on Faloni Law Group.