A recently introduced bill would attempt to roll back squatters’ rights in New York, making it easier for landlords to remove tenants occupying the premises illegally. The bill comes after a high profile case involving a woman arrested for changing the locks on a property she owns and alleged that there were squatters occupying the premises. If successful, the bill could have a dramatic effect on the rights of tenants throughout New York, not just for squatters.
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Five Things You Need to Know About Being an Executor
If you have been appointed as the executor of an estate, it may feel like you have been given an overwhelming responsibility. And while it can be difficult, especially if legal problems arise during the Probate of your loved one’s Will, you can make things much easier for yourself if you understand a few basic principles. Here are five things you need to know about being an executor:
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What Does it Mean to Be Legally Incapacitated?
A critical part of planning, beyond creating your last will and testament, is planning for the possibility that you may become legally incapacitated. Planning for incapacity ensures that your loved ones have everything they need to take care of you, if you become unable to handle your personal affairs. But what does it mean to be incapacitated, and why does it matter?
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NY Governor Signs Law Removing Medical Debt From Credit Reports
New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed a new law on Wednesday, December 15, which will remove most medical debt from the credit reports of New York residents. The law will substantially improve many people’s credit scores by removing the impact of medical debt on their credit, enabling a better financial future. In particular, this will be a boon for many low-income New Yorkers who struggle to improve their circumstances after a major medical emergency.
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Five Things You Need to Know About Contesting a Will
Ideally, when you probate a Last Will and Testament also known as a “Will”, there are no issues that require litigation. Unfortunately, there is always the chance that something may go wrong, leading to one or more heirs choosing to initiate a Will contest, questioning the validity of the Will or the capacity of the person who executed the Will. Here are five things you need to know about contesting a Will:
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Seven Signs Your Landlord Has Violated The Warranty of Habitability
Every landlord is bound by something known as the implied warranty of habitability. This guarantees the right of every tenant to live in a safe and comfortable environment, although unfortunately some landlords refuse to respect this right. Here are seven signs your landlord has violated the warranty of habitability:
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Seven Important Things to Know in Your Lease Agreement
If you are renting an apartment, or planning on renting an apartment, your lease agreement is key to understanding your rights. In particular, there are a few specific terms you should pay close attention to if you want to protect yourself from potential abuse. Here are seven important things you should know in your lease agreement: Continue reading “Seven Important Things to Know in Your Lease Agreement”
Five Things You Should Expect From the Eviction Process
If you are facing the prospect of eviction in New York City, you may be confused and nervous about the process. The process of eviction is normally fairly straightforward. There are several opportunities available to assist you from losing your home and to prepare you for the process. Here are five things you should expect during the eviction process:
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When Might You Want to Contest a Guardianship?
If you have a loved one who has or needs a Guardianship, the person appointed as Guardian should be able to adequately manage the person’s affairs. However, in some circumstances you may want to contest the guardianship. But when might you want to contest a guardianship, and what does that involve?
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Do You Have a Right to Have Your Security Deposit Returned?
When you sign a lease for an apartment, it is customary to hand over a security deposit, which theoretically should be returned to you after the lease ends. And yet, many landlords will keep the security deposit, sometimes without giving an explanation as to why. So do you have a right to have your security deposit returned, and if so, what happens when your landlord violates that right?
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