Lawyer
Conservatorships (in North Carolina they are known as guardianships) are meant to protect individuals who are unable to manage their own affairs, but the system is far from perfect. Over 1.3 million adults in the U.S. are under conservatorship, controlling a staggering $50 billion in assets. While these legal arrangements are often necessary for individuals…
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A recent high-profile case highlights the critical role conservatorships play in protecting individuals who are no longer capable of managing their affairs. According to a Forbes article, Forrest Preston, the 91-year-old founder of Life Care Centers of America (LCCA), lost control of his $3 billion nursing home empire after a Tennessee court deemed him mentally…
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Did you know that approximately 7 out of 10 Americans don’t have a will? Despite having vast wealth and resources, even some of the world’s most famous celebrities fail to create a proper estate plan. The consequences? Years of legal battles, family disputes, and unnecessary financial losses. A prime example is Prince, whose $156 million…
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A bitter legal battle is unfolding between optometrist billionaire Herbert Wertheim and his ex-wife, Nicole Wertheim, who alleges that he misappropriated millions of dollars from family trusts. At the heart of their dispute is a claim that Herbert moved significant funds out of the trusts intended to benefit the family, creating a legal crisis that…
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Estate litigation often involves complex disputes where attorneys who drafted estate documents may be called to testify. Whether it’s to explain the intent behind a will’s provisions or clarify the circumstances of its creation, lawyers play a critical role in resolving these disputes. The North Carolina State Bar’s 2024 Formal Ethics Opinion 3 outlines important…
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Each February, Black History Month serves as a time to honor the achievements, resilience, and contributions of Black Americans throughout history. Charlotte, a city rich with cultural heritage and historical significance, has played a crucial role in the fight for civil rights and legal progress. From landmark protests to groundbreaking legal battles, the Queen City…
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Meeting with a lawyer for the first time can feel overwhelming, but being prepared can help you make the most of your consultation. Whether you need guidance on a trust and estate matter, fiduciary litigation, or a shareholder dispute, the right preparation can ensure a productive and efficient meeting. Here’s how to get started: 1.…
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Navigating the appellate law process in North Carolina can be complex, but understanding the basics can help demystify the journey from trial court to appellate review. In North Carolina, the appellate process begins when a party files a Notice of Appeal. This must be done within a specific timeframe, typically thirty (30) days from the…
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North Carolina’s civil court system is structured in a tiered manner, with each level handling different types of cases and complexities. Understanding this hierarchy is crucial for anyone involved in a civil dispute. The first tier, Small Claims Court, handles disputes involving amounts generally under $10,000. These cases are often simpler in nature, such as…
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Trade secrets are a vital component of many businesses, providing a competitive edge through unique processes, formulas, or information that are not publicly known. Misappropriation of trade secrets occurs when someone acquires, discloses, or uses a trade secret without the consent of the owner, often through improper means. Under North Carolina law, as well as…
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