What Types of Questions Does USCIS Ask at a Marriage-Based Interview?
A marriage-based green card allows a non-citizen spouse the right to live and work in the United States as a permanent resident. Before granting this status to the spouse, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) must make sure the marriage is legitimate. This is to deter and prevent individuals from using...
Updating Your Living Will: Reflecting Changing Circumstances
A living will, also known as an advance directive, informs health care providers about an individual’s wishes concerning end-of-life care. The living will is a powerful tool that helps ensure dignity and comfort in the event an individual is no longer able to communicate his or her medical preferences. However, there...
How to Be Appointed as Personal Representative of an Estate
The executor of an estate, known in Massachusetts as a personal representative, helps manage the estate of the deceased individual (the decedent). Becoming the personal representative is a significant but rewarding duty that allows an individual, often a surviving family member, to help carry out the decedent’s final wishes. It all begins...
Resources for Immigrants in Massachusetts
Immigrating to another country is nothing short of life-changing, and for many, it can be overwhelming. It takes time to adjust to the new country, along with support from family, friends, and the community. A wide range of social, cultural, and governmental organizations have fortunately stepped up to help immigrants throughout Massachusetts...
Living Wills vs. Durable Powers of Attorney: Understanding the Differences
Most estate planning begins with a last will and testament, but this is only one of several instruments you will need. Two other essential documents are the living will and durable power of attorney. Both of these documents broadly concern situations in which a person is incapacitated. However, it’s important to understand...
Can You Legally Enforce a Verbal Contract?
Contracts are the backbone of many agreements and transactions. While written contracts are standard, verbal agreements also play a significant role in business dealings. But can you legally enforce a verbal contract? The answer is nuanced and depends on several factors. Here's what business owners in Massachusetts need to know about...
The Importance of Disclosures in Real Estate Transactions
There are numerous steps involved in ensuring that a home purchase goes smoothly and legally. One of the most important steps is the disclosure phase. Whether you’re buying or selling property, it’s important to understand this obligation. Here’s what you need to know.
What Are Disclosures?
Tenant Rights When Facing Renovations in Massachusetts
Facing renovations as a tenant in Massachusetts can be a daunting experience, especially if you're unsure of your rights and protections. Whether it's minor repairs or extensive upgrades, knowing what to expect and how to advocate for yourself is crucial. This guide will walk you through essential tenant rights during renovations, ensuring...
Do I Need to Hire a Business Lawyer for My Start-Up?
Starting a new business is an exhilarating journey filled with hopes, dreams, and challenges. As a new start-up owner in Massachusetts, you're likely juggling numerous responsibilities, from developing your product to fine-tuning marketing strategies and everything in between. You might be contemplating whether you need to hire a business lawyer. There...
Ensuring Compliance with Use Clauses in Commercial Lease Agreements
Lease agreements define the rights and obligations of both the lessee (the tenant) and the lessor (the landlord) of a piece of commercial property. One critical component of these agreements is the use clause, which dictates how the tenant may use the leased property. Ensuring compliance with use clauses is crucial...