In the fifth episode of Ask the Lawyers, hosts Evan Schwartz and Matt Conroy answer your legal questions, no matter how big, small, or complex.

Evan and Matt dive into the critical first steps to take when facing a divorce, emphasizing the importance of seeking legal counsel early to understand your rights and protect your interests. The discussion then shifts to the world of insurance, demystifying "bad faith" claims and explaining how state laws can dramatically impact your ability to recover damages beyond your policy limits. They draw compelling parallels between business partnership breakups and divorces, highlighting how emotion can drive costly litigation and sharing strategies for reaching a negotiated resolution. The episode also covers the essentials of estate planning, including why a will is crucial for protecting your family and assets, and provides a step-by-step guide on what to do immediately following a car accident.

Takeaway:

Whether navigating a personal crisis like a divorce, a business dispute, or an unexpected accident, proactive legal knowledge is your greatest asset. Understanding your rights, the potential consequences of your actions, and when to seek professional advice can prevent costly mistakes and lead to better outcomes. Preparing for the unexpected through sound legal and estate planning is essential for protecting yourself and your loved ones.

Have a question for Evan and Matt? Send it to mhm@schlawpc.com and they'll answer it on a future episode.

In the fourth episode of Ask the Lawyers, hosts Evan Schwartz and Matt Conroy answer your legal questions, no matter how big, small, or complex.

Through their extensive experience, Evan and Matt clarify the challenging process of dealing with insurance companies after property damage or a business shutdown. They discuss common tactics used by insurers, such as delaying claims or disputing the cause of loss, and offer practical steps business owners can take to protect themselves. The conversation covers the critical importance of documenting everything, understanding policy exclusions like flooding, and when to bring in experts. They also explain the differences between mediation, arbitration, and a lawsuit, helping you understand which path might be right for your situation.

Takeaway:

When facing a significant loss, being proactive and well-informed is your best defense. From carefully documenting the damage to understanding your policy's time limits for filing a lawsuit, the right steps can make all the difference. Knowing your options and when to seek legal counsel can help you secure a fair outcome and protect your business's future.

Have a question for Evan and Matt? Send it to mhm@schlawpc.com and they'll answer it on a future episode.

In the third episode of Ask the Lawyers, hosts Evan Schwartz and Matt Conroy answer your legal questions, no matter how big, small, or complex.

Drawing on decades of experience, Evan and Matt break down how to choose the right lawyer for your situation, what to ask during consultations, and why clear communication with your legal team sets the tone for better outcomes. They explore smart planning for new businesses, from partnership roles and operating agreements to risk allocation, and explain how workplace discrimination and retaliation claims are commonly understood, including what to document and who to notify. Their conversation also covers practical estate planning basics, like wills, powers of attorney, and healthcare proxies, to help families stay organized and prepared.

Takeaway:

Proactive legal guidance can help you spot issues early, set expectations, and move forward with confidence. From selecting counsel to structuring agreements and handling disputes, being informed and prepared goes a long way.

Have a question for Evan and Matthew? Send it to mhm@schlawpc.com and they'll answer on a future episode.