What is the process for hiring an attorney?
The initial consultation with Attorney Fine is usually free, as attorney and client decide whether they are a good fit. If Attorney Fine feels she cannot help someone, she will often refer the caller to an attorney who might be more suitable. Sometimes, Attorney Fine cannot take a client because she currently represents or previously represented a party on the other side of the matter. Attorney Fine will discuss her fee during the initial call; sometimes, her fee is an hourly rate and other times, her fee is capped or a flat fee, depending on the nature of the work. Regardless of whether the caller hires Attorney Fine, any information shared with her is kept in the strictest confidence. Here is a link to the Massachusetts Rules of Professional Conduct that govern attorneys’ behavior:
https://www.mass.gov/supreme-judicial-court-rules/supreme-judicial-court-rule-307-rules-of-professional-conduct
Should I use a real estate broker for the sale of my property?
While each transaction is unique, brokers can be essential partners in the sale of real estate. They pay for themselves by negotiating the best possible price. They chase down paperwork and solve some problems more efficiently than an attorney can. Most people sell or buy just a few properties in their lifetimes and lack the expertise that a well-trained, experienced real estate professional can bring to the table.
Should I incorporate my business?
There are many reasons to incorporate a business, such as protecting your personal assets and becoming eligible for certain benefits and tax breaks. But there are many forms of business entities, such as limited liability companies, S-corporations, C-corporations, partnerships, and business trusts. An experienced business attorney can help you choose the entity that is most appropriate for the size and growth of your business.
My organization wants to accept donations. How can it become a 501(c)(3) non-profit?
The Internal Revenue Service recently created a new process that dramatically speeds up the process of achieving tax-exempt status for small non-profits. For larger non-profits, the application process remains cumbersome and slow. In both cases, the new non-profit is required to have Articles of Incorporations and Bylaws, and it is wise to have a strategic plan. The Law Office of Meredith A. Fine represents a number of non-profits in all stages of growth.
My neighbor has built a shed on my property. Should I sue him?
Litigation is usually the last resort, not the first resort. Often, stronger relationships can be built through the process of good-faith negotiations. The Law Office of Meredith A. Fine has substantial experience with negotiating settlements, agreements, licenses, and easements. But in the event that reason fails, we also have experience in the District, Superior, Land, Probate, and Appeals courts.