SederLaw Blog Journal

Growing Number of Grandparents Becoming Guardians For Grandchildren

On behalf of SederLaw posted in Child Custody on Thursday, August 1, 2019.

In the wake of the opioid epidemic that was declared a public health crisis in 2017, there has been an uptick in the number of children needing care that their parents are unable to provide to them. In many cases, grandparents are stepping up as guardians to their grandchildren, many who were planning to retire or already were retired.

A variety of troubles may cause grandparents to seek guardianship of a grandchild. In a growing number of cases, parents may struggle with an uncontrolled/untreated substance addiction, or a physical or mental illness that renders them unfit to care for their children. Unfortunately, this has become a common catalyst for grandparents to seek guardianship of a grandchild.

Franchise Agreements: What brand materials should be included?

On behalf of SederLaw posted in Franchise on Tuesday, July 23, 2019.

It can be easy to get lost reading and analyzing a franchise agreement and disclosure documents. It is a significant investment of time and money, and you want to make sure you can start your new business successfully.

One of the advantages of purchasing a franchise is being part of an established brand. Over the years, the franchisor has worked on having a consistent product/service with an enduring message. When you invest in a franchise, part of what you need for success is access to the overall branding of the product.

Franchise Agreements: Rights and obligations that should be included.

On behalf of SederLaw posted in Franchise on Monday, July 15, 2019.

Starting a franchise can come with significant advantages. You do not have the risk and expense of developing your own brand, but you still have a lot of independence to make decisions for managing your business.

While you may be excited about the opportunity, franchise agreements are often complicated and make it difficult to know what you will get for the money you pay. The agreement explains your rights and duties and franchisors are required to provide a disclosure document detailing essential information. However, some details may be difficult to find or understand.

5 QUICK TIPS FOR FMLA COMPLIANCE

On behalf of SederLaw posted in Employment Law on Monday, July 1, 2019.

As part of the "Grand Bargain" legislation passed last summer, Massachusetts has a new Paid Family and Medical Leave Act ("PFMLA"). The PFMLA establishes a statewide Department of Family and Medical Leave and the Family and Employment Security Trust Fund ("Trust Fund"). Here are five considerations you should be making ahead of date and rate changes.

1. Be Aware of Deadlines

Sept. 30, 2019: Notify all covered individuals about the PFMLA, benefits and withholding. Document that you provided this notification and post the PFMLA poster in a conspicuous location.

Oct. 1, 2019: Begin withholding.

Jan 31, 2020: complete quarterly filings and submit contributions, including withholdings and employer contributions, if required.

Choosing The Right Type Of Construction Contract

By SederLaw posted in Business & Corporate on Thursday, May 23, 2019.

There is a lot of thought that goes into planning a construction project. Before you start looking at builders, you may spend a considerable amount of time deciding what you want to include in the project.

When it is time to start heading toward the negotiation table, it is essential to think about what type of construction contract will be the best fit for your project.

These are some of the most common types of construction contracts and when they are most useful.

The Big Print Giveth and The Fine Print Taketh Away

On behalf of SederLaw posted in Business & Corporate on Monday, April 15, 2019.

The term "boilerplate" is a word with has evolved over time to describe standard language in a contractual document that is often thought to have little or no legal significance. Typical boilerplate language is characterized as being in small print and located in obscure, unobtrusive areas of documents, such as the reverse side of standard forms. Indeed, the term "boilerplate" is believed to be derived from language stamped onto boilers disclaiming liability should the boiler explode. (This naturally leads one to question how the existence of the language is proved after the boiler has exploded-an issue for another day).

When can child support be modified in Massachusetts?

On behalf of SederLaw posted in family law & probate on Wednesday, April 10, 2019.

Routine and consistency are often comforting. But change occurs whether you want it to or not. Some changes are good like a promotion or new house, while other changes are difficult. You may have gotten laid off, or you could be dealing with a health issue. Whatever the concern, you think it might be time to revisit your child support arrangement.

Can you apply for a Rogers guardianship?

On behalf of SederLaw posted in family law & probate on Friday, March 29, 2019.

In certain situations, a vulnerable adult who does not have the ability to understand or give consent may need someone to make legal decisions for them. Usually, a legal guardian can serve in this role. However, in a situation requiring "extraordinary" medical treatment, a guardian will need additional authority, called Rogers authority.

Green Grass And High Times?

On behalf of SederLaw posted in Employment Law on Friday, March 22, 2019.

What Employers Should Know About Recreational Marijuana

As of July 1, 2018, Massachusetts became one of nine (9) states that permits recreational marijuana use. However, under the Massachusetts Marijuana Act, an employer is expressly permitted to prohibit employees from using or being under the influence of marijuana in the workplace. Yet, the Act does not address whether an employer can regulate employees' lawful use of marijuana outside of the workplace.

How to use your 2018 tax return to guide investment in 2019

On behalf of SederLaw posted in Taxation on Friday, March 8, 2019.

Not every investment is a winning one. If the value of your investments took a hit in 2018, it can discourage you from investing in 2019. Luckily, you can usually get a tax break on losses through declaring a capital loss deduction. This could result in valuable savings on your 2018 tax return.