While most of us recognize the dangers of drinking and driving and the implications that a DWI conviction can have on our licenses, many people do not appreciate how substantial the financial penalties are.

There are numerous drinking and driving offenses in NYS, the most common of which are: (a) driving while ability impaired (“DWAI”); (b) driving while intoxicated (“DWI”); and (c) aggravated driving while intoxicated (“ADWI”). You can be charged with DWAI for having a blood alcohol content (“BAC”) of 0.05 – 0.07%. DWI can be charged when the BAC is 0.08 – 0.17% and ADWI can be charged when the BAC is 0.18% and above. You can also be charged with drinking and driving based on Read on…

Tags: drinking and driving, DWI, dwi cost, dwi implications, financial penalties

You can find just about anything on the Internet, from a meatloaf recipe to a Yorkshire Terrier. The Internet can be a valuable tool or a source of entertainment, but it is a risky place to find a commercial lease form. “One Size Fits All” Lease forms may contain seemingly appropriate legalese like “subrogation” and “condition precedent,” but if you don’t know what those terms mean, you shouldn’t use them.

Generally, commercial leases are Read on…

Tags: acceleration clause, breach of lease, commercial lease, liability insurance, liquidated damages clause

The current economic chaos and uncertain future has negatively impacted many industries and people. Some businesses are filing for bankruptcy and others are seeking relief through bailout plans. The average person has probably suffered significant investment losses especially relative to their 401k or other retirement plan. Even worse, Read on…

Tags: homeowners, interest rate, loan, mortgage, mortgage crisis, refinance

With the current bleak state of the economy, many taxpayers may find their ability to pay taxes has been negatively impacted by unemployment or corporate downsizing, loss on investments and reduced income. When in these circumstances, the reaction of many taxpayers is to ignore the problem and procrastinate in dealing with the IRS.

Not filing a tax return is NOT a good idea! Read on…

Tags: bankruptcy, installment agreements, IRS, offer-in-compromise, tax civil penalties, tax penalty abated, tax return, taxes, uncollectable tax