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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Refinancing Your Property: Beware of Mechanic's Lien

If you're looking to refinance and mechanic's liens have been filed against your property, you need to know your options. Simply depositing money with a title company isn't the answer—it could lead to an unnecessary payout. Instead, consider securing a discharge mechanic’s lien bond, which ensures protection while the dispute is resolved.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Compensation for Executors, Administrators, and Trustees

Fiduciaries play a crucial role in estate administration—and they’re entitled to compensation for their services. Whether outlined in a Will or Trust or determined by New York law, payments depend on estate size and responsibilities.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

New York Set to Amend Law Addressing Retail Employee Workplace Violence Prevention

New York has revised its workplace violence prevention law, adjusting key provisions before the March 2025 rollout. While employers must still implement a workplace violence prevention policy and provide training, a major change removes the requirement for a 9-1-1 panic button, replacing it with an alert system for supervisors or security personnel instead. What does this mean for retail employers and workers?

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

How to Sell a Business Subject to an SBA EIDL Loan

Selling a business with an SBA EIDL loan comes with challenges, especially if the sale proceeds won’t fully cover the loan balance. Navigating SBA requirements can take months, so preparation is key.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Why Renounce Your Inheritance

It might sound surprising, but there are valid reasons to say no to an inheritance, including tax planning, debt avoidance, family agreements, and maintaining eligibility for government benefits. However, renouncing must be done properly—within 9 months, in writing, and filed with the court. Missed the deadline? You may still petition the Surrogate’s Court for approval.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

New and Important Changes for New Yorkers

Exciting updates in New York real estate law are strengthening protections for homeowners, particularly against deed theft and estate planning challenges. Here’s what’s changing: Deed Theft is Now Grand Larceny; More Time to Fight Back; New Transfer on Death (TOD) Deed. These changes aim to safeguard homeownership and make estate planning more accessible.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

New York Set to Amend Law Addressing Retail Employee Workplace Violence Prevention

Big changes are coming for New York retailers! The state has amended its workplace violence prevention law, which was originally set to require panic buttons that directly dial 9-1-1. Now, instead of calling emergency services, these buttons will alert supervisors or security personnel. Employers are still required to establish a workplace violence prevention policy and provide training to covered employees. Some provisions take effect in March 2025—are you ready?

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Why Naming a Guardian Is Critical

Have you named a guardian for your children? If not, the courts could make that choice for you—possibly selecting someone you wouldn’t have picked. In the worst case, your children could even face temporary foster care.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

2025 New Jersey Employment Law Updates

The new year brings key changes for New Jersey employers! From pay transparency laws to remote worker guidance, and new data protection regulations, staying compliant is more important than ever.

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Kevin McKernan Kevin McKernan

Avoiding Probate with a Joint Account

Did you know you can claim a tax deduction for your home office if it's used exclusively for business? There are two ways to do this—Simplified and Regular—but the regular method may offer bigger savings. Not sure which method is right for you? Learn more about how to calculate and maximize your home office tax deductions.

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