Author Archives: Jay Butchko

The Role of Employment Contracts in Wrongful Termination Cases
Employment contracts play a crucial role in wrongful termination cases, offering employees potential recourse when their dismissal violates the terms of an agreement. In New Jersey, where at-will employment is the default arrangement, written, implied, or verbal employment contracts can provide exceptions to the at-will doctrine and serve as the foundation for wrongful termination… Read More »

Retaliation and Wrongful Termination: Recognizing Your Rights
In New Jersey, retaliation is one of the most common claims in wrongful termination cases. State and federal laws provide employees with robust protections against adverse employment actions taken as punishment for engaging in legally protected activities. When employees face retaliation for whistleblowing, reporting discrimination, or asserting other rights, the consequences can be devastating… Read More »

Four Common Mistakes to Avoid When Setting Up a Business Succession Plan in New Jersey
Small businesses help to form the foundation of the economy. The New Jersey Department of State cites data showing that there are more than 950,000 active small businesses in our state. As a small business owner, you need to be prepared for whatever challenges might arise. Among other things, this means setting a comprehensive… Read More »

Four Reasons Why You Should Include a Living Will in Your Estate Plan
Every adult in New Jersey should have an estate plan. Proper estate planning is about more than just writing a will. It is about ensuring that your health needs are met no matter what tomorrow might bring. A living will is a key estate planning document. Here, our Monmouth County living will attorney highlights… Read More »

An Overview of the Estate Tax Laws in New York (2024)
Are you a New York State resident? If so, you need a comprehensive estate plan. For high asset people, estate taxes should be considered. At Poulos LoPiccolo PC, we have extensive experience handling estate planning matters, including estate taxes. Here, our New York estate planning lawyer provides a guide to the estate tax laws… Read More »

Trust Planning in New Jersey: What is 5 by 5 Power?
A trust can be a highly effective, efficient estate planning tool. A grantor (creator) can use a trust to provide assets to beneficiaries. Trusts can be customized to meet a person’s specific goals and needs. Five by five power is one of the more common trust planning restrictions. Here, our New Jersey trust planning… Read More »

Estate Planning for Parents: What is the Best Way to Set Up a Guardianship for Minor Children in New York?
Are you a parent who has young kids or teenagers? If so, it is imperative that your child(ren) is carefully considered in your estate plan. Among other things, you should set up a guardianship. At Poulos LoPiccolo PC, we help parents navigate estate planning matters. Here, our New York City estate planning lawyer explains… Read More »

Can I Use a Transfer on Death Deed as an Estate Planning Tool for Real Estate in New Jersey?
For many people, real estate—whether a primary residence or other property—is among their most important assets. With that in mind, it is crucial that real estate is at the center of your estate planning strategy. You may be wondering: Can I use a transfer on death deed for real estate in New Jersey? The… Read More »

How Hard is it to Set Up an Initial Estate Plan?
Every adult should have an estate plan. The American Bar Association (ABA) explains that estate planning “covers the transfer of property at death as well as a variety of other personal matters.” You may be wondering: How hard is it to set up an initial estate plan? While the answer depends somewhat on the… Read More »

Are You Required to Register a Will in New Jersey?
Are you preparing to draft a will? You may be wondering: Are you required to register your will in New Jersey? The short answer is “no”—though the state does allow you to register your will and there can be some benefits to doing so. Here, our Monmouth County estate planning attorney explains the key… Read More »