Corporate and Civil Matters
Our team of attorneys and legal professionals will assist you through your legal entanglements with care and professionalism.
WhatsNew:
Dealing With This Economy
December 3, 2011
We have been busy at the firm helping our clients deal with this difficult economy. We have had some success recently filing Chapter 11's for a few individuals with multiple properties. A recent court ruling from the Middle District of Florida eliminated a major challenge to this type of bankruptcy. We have seen a drop in the number of Chapter 7 cases compared to last year but have been advised by the foreclosure attorneys that the next waive of foreclosures in coming soon. We expect to see a corresponding increase in Chapter 7 filings. Let us know if we can help you with your financial issues.
CurrentNews:
American Airlines Files Chapter 11
December 2, 2011
The parent company of American Airlines filed for bankruptcy protection in late November, seeking relief from crushing debt caused by high fuel prices and expensive labor contracts that its competitors shed years ago. For most travelers, though, flights will operate normally and the airline will honor tickets and take reservations. American said its frequent-flier program would be unaffected.
Recent Events:
The Local Bankruptcy Scene
November 28, 2011
In the Southern District of Florida, our firm has seen an increase in the unwillingness of Chapter 7 trustees to forgo the collection of potential funds. In Florida, an individual's exemptions in bankruptcy are guided by reference to state-not federal-law. An individual is entitled to certain exemptions of personal and real property. Generally, if an individual was over their exemption limit, i.e. having certain property not entitled to exemption, trustees would generally forfeit their right as administrator of the bankruptcy estate to sell the non-exempt asset if the asset was of little value or considered "unsellable." However, our firm has observed a recent uptick in the willingness of the trustee to sell non-exempt assets worth little, seemingly because trustees do not want to lose out on the potential collection of funds. Often, the sale generates funds in an amount that does little more than pay for trustee and professional fees. If you are considering filing for bankruptcy protection, it is imperative to consult with a bankruptcy attorney who can explain your options and offer pre-bankruptcy planning to avoid these common pitfalls.
Corporate and Civil Matters
Corporations Contracts Forclosures
Lawsuits:
We handle all forms of civil and commercial lawsuits, including personal injury actions, breach of contract cases, collections and landlord-tenant matters. We represent clients in both State and Federal courts. Call for a free initial consultation. Some matters taken on a contingency fee basis (you only pay if we obtain a recovery on your behalf). Our offices are located at 8551 West Sunrise Blvd., Suite 303, Plantation, FL 33322.
Corporations and Other Business Entities:
Individuals who operate their own businesses often choose to form a legal entity such as a corporation or limited liability company to operate the business. The incorporation process results in the creation of a new entity which is registered with the State. It may provide the owners of the business with protection from liability from the debts of the corporation and wrongful acts of employees. It also provides a convenient method for more than one individual to invest in the business and for the business to continue unchanged while ownership changes. The formation of a corporation also requires additional accounting work and state filings. Each business owner has to weigh the benefits of incorporation against additional costs.
Other alternatives for the operation of a business include sole proprietorships, partnerships and limited partnerships. We can assist you in setting up any of these entities, in preparing all the necessary documentation, maintaining the entity and in preparing shareholder or partnership agreements.
Contracts:
We can draft Florida contracts for you or your business or review contracts you have been asked to sign. We can prepare or review employment agreements, non-compete agreements, sales contracts and business agreements. Provisions in a contract that specify such things as the term of the agreement, termination provisions, and the parties rights on default, including attorneys fees, can significantly improve your protection. The initial cost of a properly prepared contract is usually small compared to the cost of a lawsuit over an ambiguous agreement. We also deal extensively in contract litigation and negotiation.
Foreclosures:
Florida law does not allow self-help or administrative foreclosures, so all actions to take real property must be through the court system. Many foreclosures also end up in Bankruptcy Court, so a knowledge of state law and bankruptcy law is helpful. We can handle all aspects of a foreclosure.