Browse Tag

Attorney

5 mins read

Attorney Talk: Deal-Making in Private Equity

Kimberly Mann is a corporate and securities attorney with a principal focus on private equity. She has an in-depth understanding of the legal, regulatory, and business opportunities and challenges that fund managers encounter.

In this interview, she shares her journey, approach to successful deal-making, interesting trends in her practice areas, and valuable advice for associates and law students looking to follow in her footsteps.

What inspired your decision to practice law?

I have always enjoyed the challenge of advocating for others, even as far back as grade school. I love investigating, negotiating and problem solving.

After working as an accountant for several years and saving money, I decided to enroll in law school in the evening program. I loved the work I did in law school and as a summer associate. My love of the work, the great experiences I had as a summer associate, and the encouragement from others led me to decide to practice law.

What is your approach to successful deal-making?

I approach each transaction by first understanding what the business deal is, what my client’s goals and objectives are, and what “success” is for my client. A deal is successful only if the client thinks it is a success.

Once we establish the ground rules and come to an understanding regarding fees, my goal is to create solutions that are practical and pragmatic from both a legal and business perspective.

What interesting trends you’re seeing in your practice areas?

One of the interesting and exciting developments in private equity and venture capital is that there are increasing opportunities for African Americans in the industry.

Founders and emerging managers of color are beginning to receive more funding from investors and the number of investors of color is increasing.

We are beginning to see an increasing number of fund managers (sometimes referred to as “GPs”) of color. Those managers are getting opportunities to demonstrate their capabilities to institutional investors. It is a beautiful thing.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

I enjoy working closely with fund managers to navigate through the legal, regulatory, and business opportunities and challenges they encounter throughout their life cycle. 

Whether it is at the formation phase, a challenge with a key person, or the excitement of an exit, I love helping them achieve great outcomes.

Also, a significant part of my practice involves representing investors, such as funds of funds and other investors in private funds. I enjoy counseling them on issues relating to their investments and helping them understand and negotiate investment terms.

What advice do you have for associates and law students who want to follow in your footsteps?

  • How much time do we have? I can think of a thousand things. Here are ten things that come to mind immediately:
  • Treat everyone as a prospective client because they are.
  • Stay in touch with friends and former classmates.
  • Keep your head about you when all around you are losing theirs.
  • Hard work pays off. Play the long game. There are no shortcuts.
  • Never lose sight of who you are and the values you represent. Maintain perspective.
  • The practice of law is a profession and a business. Client service is job one, but never forget about the economics.
  • Find mentors and sponsors you respect and trust, but remember that these relationships work both ways.
  • Seek excellence in all you do.
  • Be versatile. Learn new things. Be prepared for new opportunities.
  • Chart your own path, and don’t be afraid to take an alternate route.

On the subject of alternate routes, when I graduated from law school and began working in a law firm I decided that I would re-evaluate my career every year to make sure I was on the path that was right for me. That process has served me well and I recommend it to associates who ask me for advice.

Changing course can lead to great opportunities. By changing course two years ago and moving from a very large law firm (where I had worked for more than 25 years) to Shulman Rogers, new opportunities opened for my practice and for me personally. I think introspection is a key component of a long and satisfying career. 

by Tony O. Lawson

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14 mins read

Fashion Law, Brand Partnerships & Protecting Your Work From Copycats

The internet age has exacerbated many of the legal issues that creators and fashion companies encounter, fueling the necessity for specific legal advice and protection.

For example, design piracy and copycat litigation have grown in recent years, prompting new legislation that provides legal protection for fashion designs.

We decided to get in touch with a legal expert to shed light on these issues and others facing those involved in the creator economy.

Ashley N. Cloud, Esq., MBA is the Founder and Principal Attorney of The Cloud Law Firm, PLLC based in Brooklyn, New York.

fashion law
Ashley N. Cloud, Esq., MBA

What inspired you to become a lawyer?

My mother was the first person to suggest I become a lawyer. My mom was super strict, so I was always advocating for myself to hang out with my friends on the weekends for longer than 2 hours at a time. We would have full-on debates and I’d write her letters with carefully crafted arguments. I was relentless.

Although I was very convincing, most of the time, my mom’s answer was usually still “no,” but she figured I would be able to help others with my talents. Once my mom gave me the idea of being a lawyer, it just made sense. I’ve never been one to accept the status quo. I’ve always been quick to point out unfairness and injustices and I never shy away from the opportunity to help those in need.

Black women only make up 2% of the legal profession. The road has not been easy, but it has been more than worth it. Representation matters and I know the work that I do greatly impacts my community. It brings me so much joy to be a voice for the voiceless and to empower and educate people who look like me.

I am so thankful and honored to do this work. I have so many ideas of how I can continue to be a positive force in this world and I am just getting started!

What should creators include in brand partnership agreements?

Usually, creators are presented with brand partnership agreements, so there are a few clauses they should always be on the lookout for. They include but are not limited to Compensation, Deliverables, Exclusivity, Termination, and Disclosures.

Compensation is important for obvious reasons – you want to make sure you are aware of what you will be paid, any conditions associated with payment, and when you should expect your payment. With respect to deliverables, you want to make sure you understand what the brand expects to see from you and make sure what you create is aligned with their requirements. There will likely be an approval process that you will want to make sure you are compliant with as well.

Oftentimes, brands will require you to work with them exclusively for their respective industry. For example, if you work with one shoe company, you may be restricted from working with other shoe companies during the term of your agreement. Pay attention to the length of the agreement and under what conditions you or the brand may terminate the agreement; including any morality clauses.

If you are a content creator, you’ll also want to pay attention to any disclosure requirements, as the Federal Trade Commission requires you to disclose your relationship with any brands you promote. You can check out some helpful guidance on the FTC’s guidelines here.

Kim Kardashian was recently ordered to pay over $1 million for violating the FTC’s rules, so you’re going to want to pay attention to this!

In any case, you will want to read your contract, ask questions if you don’t understand something, and remember to know your worth! Advocate for what you want if you are unhappy with the terms of your agreement.

If you are unsure if the partnership is right for you or if you still don’t understand the implications of the terms of your agreement, I suggest you reach out to an attorney you trust to assist you.

What are some common misconceptions in fashion law?

One of the biggest misconceptions about fashion law is that it’s all about intellectual property. Sure, intellectual property is one exciting facet of fashion law, but there is so much more to fashion law than just intellectual property.

Fashion is a multi-billion-dollar industry. It can be glamorous, but like any other industry, fashion is a business. Aside from intellectual property, fashion law includes, business law, contract law, labor and employment law, real estate law, international law, e-commerce law, privacy law, supply chain law, technology law, consumer protection law, environmental law, and so much more! The law really touches every aspect of a fashion business.

As the creator economy grows, what types of legal matters do you foresee arising?

There are more and more creators entering the marketplace now that the barrier to entry is lower and consumers are more accessible. The major legal matter I can see growing in popularity is the world of Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), blockchain, and the Metaverse.

Because the law hasn’t quite caught up with this facet of fintech and intellectual property, I am interested to see what types of precedents are established to help further guide creators and attorneys in this space.

What are some recent lawsuits in the fashion world that you find interesting? That designers can learn from?

Recently, Skechers USA Inc. filed a lawsuit against Hermès International and Hermès of Paris, Inc. for patent infringement in relation to its Massage Fit sole technology. This case excited me because it is the perfect example of properly policing and enforcing your intellectual property rights.

Skechers has gone after brands for a similar infringement. With the popularity of the thicker, chunky shoe sole emerging in recent years, it will be up to the courts to decide if Hermès infringed on Skechers’ patents or if the company is simply hopping on a popular trend not originated by Skechers.

fashion law
CREDIT: UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF NEW YORK

Another case that stands out and is not fashion-related but falls more within the realm of entertainment, is the lawsuit recently lodged by, Goldenvoice, the company responsible for the popular U.S. music festival, Coachella, against Afrochella, a popular Ghanaian music festival. Allegedly, Afrochella has infringed on Coachella’s trademark and goodwill in the promotion of Afrochella.

There are arguments on both sides on whether Afrochella should be held liable for infringing on Coachella’s trademark. One argument is that Afrochella specifically identified its own festival as being inspired by Coachella, which some say creates an unauthorized affiliation between the brands.

Another argument is that Afrochella is only held in Ghana and should be permitted to use its name since the company does not currently host its festival in the United States. I am interested to see how the courts decide this case or if the brands will be able to come to an amicable settlement.

How can smaller designers protect their work from being copied?

Formal intellectual property protections of fashion designs (i.e. the shape, style, or cut of a garment) are virtually unprotected. However, there are a few ways you can protect certain aspects of your work as a fashion designer. One way is that you can protect an original print, pattern, or sculptural adornment that is included on a garment through copyright protection. You can also protect certain types of creations through a design or utility patent.

Additionally, you should protect your brand through trademark and trade dress protection. Another way of protecting your designs is through the contracts you draft and sign in partnership with others. For example, you can require the manufacturer of your designs to sign a non-disclosure and non-compete agreement so they don’t disclose your design to another brand or try to replicate your design by creating a knock-off of their own. If they do, you may be able to recover damages for violating your contract and the sales associated with doing so.

I also suggest designers use the power of their communities to fill in the gaps where the law falls short. When you see another designer or brand copy your design, let it be known via social media. It’s a lot less expensive and you may be able to resolve the dispute a lot quicker than suing in court.

by Ashley Cloud Esq.

Follow Ashley at @cloudesq  and @thecloudlawfirm, @cloudesq and @yourfashionattorney for updates.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only.  Information on this website may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information.  This website contains links to other third-party websites.  Such links are only for the convenience of the reader, user or browser; Ashley N. Cloud and The Cloud Law Firm PLLC do not recommend or endorse the contents of the third-party sites.
Readers of this website should contact their attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular legal matter.  No reader, user, or browser of this site should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information on this site without first seeking legal advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction.  Only your individual attorney can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation.  Use of, and access to, this website or any of the links or resources contained within the site do not create an attorney-client relationship between the reader, user, or browser and website authors, contributors, contributing law firms, or committee members and their respective employers.  
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1 min read

Attorney Talk: The Connection Between Intellectual Property & Social Justice

Sommer Blackman is an Attorney at Grant Attorneys at Law PLLC.  Her practice areas include entertainment, trademark, and copyright law.

She is admitted to practice law in Ontario, Canada and admission is pending in New York.

Sommer grew up deeply immersed in music; she is a classically trained pianist and played the alto and tenor saxophones for 7 years. She also enjoys educating the community about their intellectual property rights.

In this episode, she shares:

  • The connection between intellectual property and social justice.
  • Notable past examples of exploitation of Black artists in America, the Caribbean, and Africa.
  • Some current intellectual property cases that she finds interesting.
  • IP trends she expects to influence the near future.
  • Best ways for creators to protect their IP on larger platforms.

-Tony O. Lawson

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2 mins read

Web3 Revenue Strategies for Entrepreneurs and Creators

As digital assets (NFTs, DAOs, the metaverse, and blockchain tech) become more mainstream, the need to develop effective Web3 revenue strategies is becoming increasingly important.

JoAnn Holmes practices in the areas of digital asset law and intellectual property licensing. She helps innovators, brands, and creators monetize IP, build Web3 revenue, and manage evolving legal risks.

She advises digital asset clients on a variety of issues including NFT launches, brand partnerships, DAO governance, and metaverse assets.  She also provides strategy sessions to help design and launch Web3 products and services, legal consultations for early stage projects, and recurring advisory services for scaling organizations.

For 20 years, Jo has successfully negotiated with Fortune 100s companies and managed IP portfolios spanning 150 countries that generate over $2 billion in annual revenue.

We caught up with her to find out more about her work.

VIDEO CHAPTERS

0:00 – Intro

0:39 – What inspired her to start her law firm.

2:36 – Why she pivoted to focus on digital assets/Web3.

3:57 – How Web3 differs from the present and previous versions of the internet.

6:36 – Why businesses, brands, and creators should consider incorporating Web3 technology.

8:53 – Types of businesses are best suited for a Web3 strategy.

14:00 – The first steps a brand or business should take in developing a Web3 strategy.

20:26 – How Web3 is influencing laws internationally.

25:40 – Using Web3 to advance diversity and racial equity in tech ecosystems.

32:33 – Contact info

Disclaimer: The information provided does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information provided is for general informational purposes only.

Tony O. Lawson

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1 min read

Attorney Talk: Things to Know Before Starting a Web3 Business or an Investment Fund

The Coleman Law Firm is a Black owned law firm owned by Bernard Coleman. Bernard has closed more than $1 billion dollars in transactions for clients in a variety of industries, including technology, entertainment, personal care, hospitality, healthcare, manufacturing, venture capital, and government contracting.

His firm specializes in representing diverse founders, small businesses, and early-stage growth companies through the stages of formation, organization, capitalization, expansion, and acquisition.

In this interview, Bernard discusses:

  • Why he left the world of Big Law to start his own firm.
  • Helping underrepresented founders raise capital via equity crowdfunding.
  • The legal ramifications of not differentiating between independent contractors and employees.
  • Best practices for trademark protection.
  • Determining when a cryptocurrency should be classified as either a utility token or a security.
  • Intellectual property issues in the Metaverse.
  • The benefits of acquiring businesses via the franchise model.

Tony O. Lawson

Disclaimer: The information provided does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information provided is for general informational purposes only.

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6 mins read

Black Estate Attorney Shares Best Practices for Wealth Building and Wealth Preservation

Maximillienne “Max” Elliott is the founder and Managing Attorney at The Law Offices of Max Elliott, Ltd. 

With offices in New York, New York, and Chicago, the 10 year old firm represents families and individuals in estate planning, estate administration (including litigation and uncontested cases), and business planning.

Serving estates with a combined size of more than $425 million, the firm’s focus is on helping families maintain and build legacies.

We caught up with Max to learn more about the importance of estate planning in the wealth accumulation and preservation process.

Black Estate Attorney
Maximillienne “Max” Elliott

What inspired you to pursue a career in law?

Being of service is very important. Initially, I wanted to be an international human rights advocate. However, when I was a law student, I already had a family member going to “hot spots,” such as Afghanistan, for NATO. So, I decided one family member in hot spots was enough, whereby a domestic-based role would be more prudent and manageable for my family’s collective psyche.

Describe your average client.

No client is “average.” They each have their unique set of circumstances and personalities. Common threads for many of our estate planning clients are the desire to create a legacy, prevent loved ones from going through the arduous estate administration and probate process, and protect loved ones from unfriendly family members.

Our clientele is also very diverse across most milieux – ethnicity, age, occupation.

What would you say is the biggest misconception about estate planning?

A few misconceptions about estate planning are:

(1) Estate planning is only needed if you are wealthy. FALSE. Even if you have a modest estate, where you don’t own real property, you have your personhood, and estate planning instruments such as Medical Advanced Directives, which protect you during your lifetime, and a Last Will and Testament that allows single parents to nominate guardians are critical.

Also, let us think – the wealthy can generally afford to spend tens of thousands on probate and estate administration; those with less wealth cannot.

(2)  Estate planning is costly. EXPENSE IS RELATIVE. Estate administration or probate, which is required when no planning is done, is usually double or triple the fees for estate planning and also requires a freezing of assets and potentially unintended beneficiaries, such as half-siblings.

(3) Estate planning is only needed if you have more than one beneficiary. FALSE. If you have a single beneficiary and your assets are not titled properly, financial institutions do not care. They will require your beneficiary to go through probate, regardless of what state law says.

When should individuals or families start putting a wealth preservation plan in place?

Individuals and families should begin crafting a wealth preservation plan as soon as they realize that they are in (or leaving) committed partnerships or have interests but no “real beneficiaries.”

It is sufficiently challenging to lose a loved one, let alone lose a loved one, and be told that for the next year and probably more, you will also have to work with attorneys to receive your inheritance.

For individuals without parents, siblings, and children, the issue is even more salient because, without a plan, complete strangers, e.g., your fifth cousin will inherit your estate.

What are your thoughts on the importance of accumulating and keeping wealth in the Black community?

We must first understand that wealth is accumulated by making wise decisions about money, people, and opportunities and it founds communities when that wisdom is passed up to generations. Wealthy communities tend to be more stable, safer for the vulnerable (children and seniors), and thus, better protected from uncontrollable external forces.

About 1/3 of my time is spent in court and another 1/3 is spent preparing estate plans to keep beneficiaries from fighting and from going to court where a lot of money is spent to send wisdom and wealth outside of our community, eroding the stability and protections our community could use.

In court, a large swath of beneficiaries are Black but a larger swath of attorneys are not. This means that inheritances, which represent wealth that could remain in the Black community, are leaving our community as attorneys’ fees to those who may not even be our allies.

Studies indicate that it will take more than 200 years to close America’s wealth gap, and that’s if nothing is done and things don’t get worse. We are now confronting inflation. I am not an economist, but it seems that the least we can do is create a plan for our families that fosters financial prudence, education in all its forms, protection of our vulnerable, and a pride and love of community in itself that passes up to generations so we, as individuals, families, and a community, become stronger as each decade passes.

CONTACT

Chicago

605 North Michigan Avenue,
Suite 400
Chicago, Illinois 60611

New York

902 Broadway,

Floors 6 & 7,

New York, NY 10010

Phone

(877)535-1600

Email

info@maxelliottlaw.com

3 mins read

Featured Professional: Attorney, Marirose Roach

As important as it is to recognize business owners and entrepreneurs, it is just as important to recognize the professionals and service providers who are excelling in their different fields of practice. Marirose Roach is one such professional.
Marirose is a partner with Philadelphia based, Roach-Leite. She is passionate about fighting for the rights of spouses and children, providing legal representation in divorce, custody and support cases.

Marirose Roach – Attorney (Philadelphia)

Marirose Roach
Attorney Marirose Roach

Why did you decide to practice law?

My mom wanted me to become a doctor or a lawyer.  I can’t stomach the sight of blood, so becoming an attorney was the default.  I was intrigued by the law from a young age.  I always wanted to help people and I felt that law would be an effective vehicle to do so.

What do you wish you had known about the legal profession before becoming an attorney?

They do not teach you how to become an attorney in law school.  Well, at least they didn’t when I was there.  There is a great deal of practical education that you do on the job.  Once out of law school, it is crucial to surround yourself with people that will make you great.
 

Your firm specializes in different types of law. Which do you enjoy the most and why?

It varies, each area has it’s pros and cons.  ​Each case is a window into a stranger’s life.  When you learn about their household, family, friends and struggles and can help them come out with a positive result, it feels absolutely amazing.  It’s a constant reminder of why I decided to practice law.

What do you do in your off time when you aren’t “lawyering”?

I’m a kid and an athlete at heart.  I still play in several recreational adult sport leagues.  It’s a great way to network and relieve stress.  When I’m not playing or working, I spend time with family and cook.

Where do you see your firm in the next 5 years?

We are currently going through a growth spurt at the firm.  ​In five years, if we continue this growth, I’d like to increase our support staff and strategize  marketing to refine the practice and be more efficient in how we target clients.

What advice do you have for students contemplating the legal profession?​

Get to know yourself and hone in on what you are truly passionate about.  Having a legal degree can create opportunities for change, but it’s a grind.  Be ready for a challenge.

Contact info:
Roach Leite LLC
6950 Castor Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19149
Telephone: (267) 343-5818

-Tony Oluwatoyin Lawson (@thebusyafrican)
5 mins read

Black Attorneys, Lawyers & Legal Professionals

In 2009, Black attorneys represented 1.71% of law firm partners. Today, Black attorneys represent 1.81% of partners.

According to the National Association for Law Placement 2017 Report on Diversity in U.S. Law Firms, “women and minority partners remain fairly dramatically under-represented in U.S. law firms,” with women minorities being the “most dramatically underrepresented group” of all.

Given this information, we felt it fitting to acknowledge some of the  Black Attorneys, Lawyers, and Legal professionals who are the best in their field.

Black Attorneys, Lawyers & Legal Professionals

Ryan StoweStowe Law Firm, PLLC  (Salisbury, NC) Practice areas: Traffic violations, Criminal defense, DWI

black attorneys

Portia Wood – Wood legal Group (Pasedena, CA) Practice Areas: Estate Planning, Wealth Creation

Angel Murphy – The Murphy Law Firm (Upper Marlboro, MD and Oxon Hill, MD) Practice Areas: Family Law, Criminal Law, Personal Injury, Notary Services)

black lawyer

Ken Lanier – The Law Office of Ken Lanier (Decatur, GA) Practice Area: Personal Injury

black lawyer

Michael A. Walker –  The Walker Firm (Pennsylvania, PA) Practice Areas: Criminal Defense, Personal Injury, Real Estate and Discrimination.

Max Elliott – The Law Offices of Max Elliott (Chicago, New York City) Practice areas: Estate Planning, Estate Administration, and Business Planning

black lawyers

Diane Butler – Law Offices of Diane Butler (Hawthorne, CA) Practice areas: Personal Injury, Probate, Estate Planning, Bankruptcy and more)

James Saintvil – Jayde Law PLLC (Washington, DC and Marlton, NJ) Practice areas: Estate Planning, Estate Administration, and Business Succession Planning

Sekou Campbell – Law Offices of Sekou Campbell (Philadelphia, PA) Practice areas: Corporate Law, Entrepreneurship and Startups, Intellectual property, Tax

Shavon J. Smith – The SJS Law Firm (Washington D.C. & Maryland ) Practice areas: Entrepreneurship and Startups, Non-Profits, Government contracting.

Ayanna Jenkins -Toney – Law Offices of Ayanna L. Jenkins-Toney (San Francisco, CA) Practice areas: Matrimonial and Family Law

Image result for Ayanna L. Jenkins-Toney

Pamela Price – Pamela Y. Price, Attorney at Law (Oakland, CA) Practice Area: Civil Rights

Jerome Carter – Carter Law Firm (Mobile, AL) Practice Areas: Civil Plaintiff, Matrimonial and Family Law, Wills, Trusts and Estates

Aimee Griffin – The Griffin Firm, PLLC (Washington, DC) Practice Areas: Wills, Trusts and Estates

Black Attorneys

Hughie Hunt II – Kemet & Hunt (Calverton, MD) Practice Areas: Real Estate, Matrimonial and Family Law, Wills, Trusts and Estates

Black Attorneys

William Jenkins – Jenkins & Roberts LLC (College Park, GA) Practice Areas: Business Formation, Wills, Trusts and Estates

Image result for William Jenkins attorney

LaKesha Shahid – Shahid & Hosea LLC (Montgomery, AL) Practice Areas: Civil Plaintiff, Employment Law, Matrimonial and Family Law, Wills, Trusts and Estates

Black Attorneys

Andrew MaloneyMaloney Law Group (New York, NY) Practice Areas: Corporate Law, Mediation / Arbitration, Real Estate

Kwaku OforiOfori Law Firm, LLC (Silver Spring, MD) Practice Areas: Civil Plaintiff, Commercial Litigation, Real Estate

Joey Ofori

Natalee Drummond-Fairley -The Fairley Firm (Atlanta, GA) Practice Areas: Business Transactions, Civil Plaintiff

Ryan Hintzen – Franklin Square Law Group (Washington, DC) Practice Areas: Business Transactions, Employment Law

Image result for Ryan Hintzen

Fraline AllgaierAllgaier Patent Solutions (Glencoe, IL) Practice Areas: Intellectual Property, Trademark and Patents

Michelle Thomas – M.C. Thomas & Associates, PC (Washington, DC ) Practice areas: Matrimonial and Family Law

Picture of Michelle C. Thomas

Darcia Tudor – Eastside Mediation & Arbitration (Kirkland, WA) Practice Areas: Matrimonial and Family Law

Image result for darcia tudor

 

Joe H. Tucker – Tucker Law Group (Philadelphia, PA) Practice Areas: Civil litigation, Complex breach of contract, Products liability and employment discrimination litigation

Black Attorneys

Marirose RoachRoach Law (Philadelphia, PA) Practice Areas: Family Law, Foreclosure Defense, Sports & Entertainment Law, Estates & Asset Protection

Black Attorneys

George Edwards III – Edwards Sutarwalla PLLC (Houston, TX) Practice Areas: Corporate Law, Real Estate, Insurance, Retail Litigation

Shelice Tolbert – Tolbert & Tolbert LLC (Gary, Indiana) Practice Areas: Business Formation, Civil Plaintiff, Litigation and Insurance Defense

Johnny Hawkins – Law Office of J L Hawkins (Southfield, MI) Practice Area: Civil Plaintiff

Shevelle McPherson – McPherson Law Offices (Cherry Hill, NJ) Practice Area: Criminal Defense
E. Michelle Martin – The Martin Law Firm (Columbus, OH) Practice Areas: Civil Plaintiff, Criminal Defense

Alicia Howard – The Law Office of Alicia A. Howard(Memphis, TN) Practice Areas: Matrimonial and Family Law


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17 mins read

Growing and Maintaining Black Wealth: Estate Planning

This is the first installment in our series around the topic of “Growing and Maintaining Black wealth through sound legal strategies and problem solving.” Let’s begin with a discussion about Estate Planning.

Estate Planning

In October of 2015, retired NBA player Lamar Odom suffered several strokes and kidney failure at the young age of thirty-five, leaving many people shocked and shaken by the fact that someone so young and presumably healthy could possibly die.

Of course, given his position in the Kardashian realm, many were also enthralled by the latest drama in America’s most famous (for now) family. Yet, if we unpack that drama and look at it plain and simple, Lamar’s circumstances should be a lesson for us all.

la-et-mg-khloe-kardashian-lamar-odom-still-married-20151014

At the age of 35, Lamar was in the final stage of divorce and a father of two minor children from a previous relationship when he experienced a life-altering medical event.

Those are the mind-numbing facts: 35 years old, estranged wife, father of two minor children—and a very uncertain future. While his medical crisis was extraordinary, the other key circumstances in Lamar’s life were not.

Amidst all of the sensational discussions surrounding Lamar’s unfortunate situation, there was little, if any discussion around whether or not he had legal documents appointing someone to handle his affairs, i.e. step into his shoes to make his medical and financial decisions.

Presumably he did not, because his estranged wife put a halt to their divorce, and under the authority of California law as his wife, became his decision-maker.

Thankfully, Lamar’s health has improved and he is still with us. However, imagine if someone in the exact same situation as Lamar passed away leaving an estranged wife, two minor children, and no legal documents to dictate what happens with whatever assets they have and how their affairs are settled.

Now ask yourself, if something happened to you today, who would step in? Who could legally step into your shoes? You may not know the answer to the last question. And you probably do not even like the question.

So, let’s consider this question instead: if you had the rare opportunity to become a secret agent on some James Bond-type mission but you had to pick a family member or friend to assume your identity and continue living your life until you came back, who would that person be?

Who is most likely to have your life intact when you come back? Who would be your agent? The person you would choose to be your agent and who the law chooses could and likely would vary greatly when you do not have the legal documents in place to effectuate your choices.

The solution is simple. Go to a knowledgeable estate planning attorney and create an estate plan.* If you don’t know who to use then you might want to check out someone like this new york estate attorney. However, there are loads that you could use. Many, in fact, most of us avoid estate planning. We think we do not have an “estate” or that lawyers are too expensive. We believe our loved ones will “take care of everything” because we trust them. We think we are too young. Most importantly, it is very unpleasant and scary to think about a time when we cannot take care of ourselves or when we die. If you have any questions about preparing your estate it is worth speaking to an estate planning lawyer as they might have the information needed to put your mind to rest and help you plan for the future.

Black-Family

So, consider the fact that you have a unique opportunity to put the law on your side. This power is especially important during a time when many of us have considerable doubts and questions about the laws of our nation and our states when it comes to issues such as policing, voting, and clean water—to say the least.

You have the power to create a plan and make decisions about how you are cared for in a time of need or transition. You have the power to create a plan for optimizing your assets for their use while you are living and when you pass away.

Take advantage of this opportunity! ??The first step is developing a basic understanding of estate planning, which is the purpose of this series of articles.

What is estate planning? Estate planning is making a plan in advance for what happens to you and your assets when you cannot take care of them yourself and for when you die. You get to make the decisions on the who, what, when, and how of your affairs rather than that determination being made by the law. A basic estate plan includes a will, a financial power of attorney, a healthcare power of attorney, and a healthcare directive (a “living will”).

Growing and maintaining Black wealth

What is an estate? Many people believe they do not have an “estate.” We all have an estate. An estate is everything you own from your collection of baseball cards or Chanel purses to your cash, retirement accounts, life insurance and vehicles. When it comes to real estate, find out more information through companies such as PFC Property Management, especially if you are looking to work in this particular industry. There’s a lot to learn, but it is quite interesting. I’m sure you’d rather know more now, than know nothing at all. Even if the cash value of your what you own is small, you have an estate.

What is a will? A will is a document that states your final wishes. In a will you appoint someone to settle your affairs: an executor. You state who gets your property, what property they get, and how much of it. You can even state when they get your property.

You can nominate guardians for your minor children. The court ultimately decides who the guardians will be, but a will provides very useful information in that determination. You can even provide instructions on paying your debts and on your funeral.

Signing Last Will and Testament

In most states, the property of someone dying without a will, leaving behind an estranged spouse and children from a previous relationship, would have to be divided between the estranged spouse and children. For most people, this scenario is not ideal, it’s a nightmare.

On the other hand, you could have circumstances that are not complex at all. Perhaps you are a single person with no children. Without a will, in most states, the person(s) eligible to manage your estate would be your parents. Does that work for you? If you do not have parents, the law looks to your siblings. Again, does that work for you? If you don’t have parents or siblings, then who?

A will is a critical document that can save relationships and money. It can also be a foundational element in your legacy. So, it is important to have a will and for it to be designed with a knowledgeable estate planning attorney.

What is a power of attorney? There are two types of power of attorney documents: financial power of attorney (also known as durable power of attorney) and health care power of attorney. Both allow you to appoint someone as your attorney-in-fact which means they can make the same actions you can make.

The types of activities the person operating under your power of attorney can do vary from speaking to financial institutions about your accounts, signing legal documents, such as contracts and deeds, to speaking with healthcare providers, including your doctor.

The power of attorney document can be very powerful, especially if you use a fill-in- the-blank type of document, instead of one tailored to your needs. If you use one that’s fill-in-the-blank, you could be unintentionally giving someone the ability to abuse the role you have given them.

In a customized power of attorney, you can set the conditions under which the attorney-in-fact can act, as well as limit the types of things they can do. For example, you can have a limited power of attorney for real estate that allows the attorney-in-fact to take actions related to a specific piece of property during a specific time or transaction.

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Having either power of attorney, and preferably both, can give you peace of mind that the person you trust most will be able to help you when you are unable to take care of yourself.

If you are incapacitated and do not have power of attorney documents, it is extremely difficult and costly for someone to be able to help you.

The absence of power of attorney documents could even lead to litigation and destruction of relationships. Consider the scenarios discussed under the description of the will when thinking about what would happen.

Also, keep in mind, a power of attorney document does not replace a will. Many people mistakenly believe that the instructions in their power of attorney or in their loved one’s power of attorney carry over after a person dies. The power stops at death.

What is a living will? A living will is also known as an advanced directive and it is a document in which you give the medical personnel instructions for your end-of-life medical care. It comes into to play when your death is certain and gives instructions on things such as palliative care (easing pain and suffering), extraordinary measures, and nourishment.

The decisions you have to make in a living will are very difficult to think about but imagine if your spouse, child, or parent had to make those decisions for you. Having a living will is also a key part of your estate plan.

Estate Planning

How do I get started on my estate plan? The first step is to find an attorney who specializes in estate planning. Many people believe they can do their estate planning themselves and want to do so to save money. Imagine your profession is a hair stylist, a bank manager, or a professional athlete.

You are very good at what you do. Your car needs new brakes and they are expensive. You can probably go on YouTube to find a video with instructions for putting new brakes on your car. Let’s say that technically you can put new brakes on your car and save a good deal of money.

Is this the best choice? Alternatively, you could save money by taking the car to the detail shop where you get your car cleaned and let the owner put brakes on your car. He takes good care of your car and he can save you money. Is he the best choice, though?

If your well being or the well being of those you love depended on it, are you or the detail shop guy the right choice for putting brakes on your car? Can you be reasonably sure that the condition of your car will be safe and it will not lose monetary value after you or the detail shop guy repair it?

Your life and your assets deserve the same level of consideration and you deserve to have a comprehensive estate plan done by an attorney who focuses on estate planning.

Estate Planning

Attorneys charge by the hour or offer a flat fee for estate planning. A typical plan costs on average $600-$800 for a single person and around $1,000 for a couple. The costs depend on your circumstances. Many attorneys require a retainer.

A retainer is money delivered in advance to the attorney and held in trust for the client. They take the fees earned from that retainer. Many people balk at the request for a retainer. However, you should consider the retainer as incentive to you fulfilling your role in this process.

It is not uncommon for someone to start the process and then not complete it because they still have the fears around estate planning or simply do not prioritize it.

In the next articles we will discuss the financial components of your estate planning including life insurance, retirement accounts, and real and personal property. Stay tuned!

– Contributed by Mavis Gragg

Mavis Gragg is an attorney at the Gragg Law Firm, PLLC in Durham, North Carolina where she specializes in estate planning and estate administration. She is very passionate about maintaining and growing Black wealth through sound legal strategies and problem solving. When she is not being a justice girl, she can be found at an art gallery, trotting the globe, or on the dance floor.

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