Contracts - From negotiations to drafting to final review, each stage of contract development is crucial in obtaining the goals of the parties. We understand the nuances of language and apply them to our clients' advantage. From business contracts to individual agreements, our staff has the experience to help our clients memorialize their transactions and eliminate any potential problems.

Business and Commercial Law - We provide a wide variety of services to our business clients from assisting in selecting the type of organizational entity under which to operate, preparation of agreements, sale and purchase of businesses, obtaining financing and funding for business operations, and employee relations, to dissolution.

Business Organizations - The form of business chosen for a business entity potentially affects every aspect of its operations. Our firm assists clients in formation and business planning whether they want to operate as a closely held business, limited liability company, partnership, or corporation. We advise clients about directors' and officers' liability, dissolution, franchising, reorganization, trade association membership and activity, joint ventures, mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, business successions, and shareholders' rights.

Elder Law - As the population grows older and lives longer, new legal challenges arise. Issues such as financial planning and long term care arrangements can prove to be daunting. We are skilled at reviewing every client's goals and assets to determine the best choices for each individual.

Probate & Estate Administration - Probate is the legal process by which a person's debts are paid and assets are distributed upon her or his death. Estate Administration includes the probate process as well as non-probate transfers of the deceased's assets. Individual state laws direct distribution of the deceased's estate. State laws and procedures vary greatly, so it is important to consult a firm with expertise in this area of the law to ensure that the deceased's assets are distributed correctly.

Estate Planning/Trusts/Wills - Our firm handles a variety of estate planning matters, including planning for the distribution of an individual's property at his or her death and taking into account wills, taxes, insurance, property, and trusts so as to gain the maximum benefit of all laws, while, at the same time, carrying out the person's wishes. In order to establish a secure and regular income for loved ones left behind, many clients seek advice on Trust establishment and administration. This strategy can reduce a Beneficiary's tax and allow the Trust to grow through investment. A will is a person's declaration of how one wants their property dispersed after death. Because there are complex regulations regarding the validity of any will, hire an attorney with knowledge and experience.

Construction Law - Our firm represents owners, contractors, construction managers, developers, design professionals, and suppliers in all aspects of the construction process, including bidding and document preparation, contract negotiation and formation, contract performance, financing and warranty issues, mechanics and materialmen liens, and claims and dispute resolution.

Real Estate - We represent commercial clients and individuals in all proceedings and transactions that deal with real property-land and the structures attached to it-including purchase and sale, construction, mortgages and foreclosures, leases, zoning, title examinations, quiet title actions, closings, and management.

Land Use & Zoning - We have years of experience in matters relating to zoning and land use. We have appeared before the appropriate administrative entities in order to argue our clients' cases for changes in designated real property status. We also have experience with use variances, special use permits, condemnations, and many other administrative land use matters.

Eminent Domain - Eminent domain is the power to take private property for public use by the state or local municipality. When a client must surrender property under the state's right of eminent domain, they are usually entitled to fair compensation. Be sure to hire a lawyer with experience in this area to be sure your interests are protected.

State, Local & Municipal Law - We have expertise and knowledge in the areas of powers and liabilities of state and local government and municipal corporations, including matters such as land use and zoning issues, municipal employment disputes, and injuries to personal or property by municipal employees.

Criminal - We have extensive experience defending the rights of people arrested and accused of criminal offenses. We handle all types of criminal cases, including minor infractions and misdemeanors and the most serious felony indictments, such as, drug possession, narcotics sales, theft and grand larceny, white collar fraud, embezzlement, sex offenses, arson, and conspiracy.

DUI/DWI - We represent individuals who have been charged with drunk driving. When charged with DUI or DWI, you run the risk of losing your ability to drive. You also may face serious fines or jail time.

Traffic Violations - Your ability to drive directly impacts your ability to earn a living. You may face the revocation of your license or large fines. Be sure to have an attorney on your side to help preserve your rights.

Motor Vehicle Accidents - Plaintiff - Accidents happen. Sometimes, however, you are injured through no fault of your own. The result can be lost wages, damage to personal property or worse. While you may be injured and in pain you also have to deal with the Insurance Companies whose desire is to reduce your claim. We have helped many injured victims win rightful and necessary compensation.

Personal Injury - We also represent individuals involved in controversies alleging a wrong or damage to another's person, rights, reputation, or property resulting from events or activities such as defective products, infliction of emotional distress, intentional misconduct, and negligence.

Family Law/Adoption/Divorce - Our firm handles Family Law matters including adoption and divorce. Adoptive parents accept all the challenges, rights, and responsibilities of parenthood. The adoption process can be a maze of legal twists and turns. We can help you bring your new family together with minimum delay. Likewise, marriage is a legal relationship between two people. Many legal matters arise when a marriage is to be dissolved and you need help to find your way to an agreeable settlement. As your legal representatives we have the experience and creativity to understand the difficulties that arise and the flexibility to help you discover new ways to cope during this potentially stressful time.

MICHAEL L. BREEN
34 Railroad Avenue
Middleburgh, New York 12122
Phone: (518) 827-4320
Fax: (518) 827-7381
Email: breenlaw@midtel.net

The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for individual advice regarding your own situation.

Copyright © 2000 by Law Office of Michael Lawrence Breen. All rights reserved.

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