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Fiffik Law Group, PC has the experienced Probate and Estate Administration attorneys necessary to help you answer tough questions, navigate tax laws, obtain appraisals, distribute assets, defend against improper claims, arrange for inventory, and obtain court approval. Probate & Estate Administration Losing a loved one is often one of the most difficult things we go through in our lives. Because of this, we approach every estate administration with compassion and thoughtfulness. We understand that you are hurting, and we want to make this process as easy for you as possible. From a legal standpoint, closing your loved one’s affairs may involve many different steps. Fiffik Law Group knows how to handle this often-difficult task with thorough, competent, and efficient guidance, so you and your family members can focus on what is important. What is Probate? Probate is the legal process where the court assigns someone to administer and distribute assets after a person’s death. Some estates, particularly those of high value or with complex assets like family businesses, can take more time to probate. Others could be easily settled by an alternative method, such as a family settlement agreement. Fiffik Law Group can assist in bringing clarity to the confusing probate process. We understand that dealing with the court system while you are devastated from the loss of a loved one can be overwhelming or stressful. Our firm will make the process as smooth as possible by taking the time to understand your particular situation, address your concerns, and explore options for a successful resolution for you and your family. Don’t get tangled in the legal system while you’re grieving a loved one. Our firm is here to help you answer tough questions, navigate tax laws, obtain appraisals, distribute assets, defend against improper claims, arrange for inventory, and obtain court approval. Common Questions for Executors 1. How do I contact the Social Security Administration? Contact Social Security toll-free at 800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), or visit Social Security on the Internet at http://www.ssa.gov. 2. How do I report a death to the Social Security Administration? You cannot report a death or apply for survivors’ benefits online. 3. Should Social Security Payments be Returned to the Social Security Administration? Social Security benefits are paid in arrears. This means that the check received each month is in payment of the preceding month's benefits. Thus a check received in January is for December benefits. You must also understand that for a person to be entitled to receive benefits he or she must be living for the entire month. For example if a beneficiary died on Dec. 20, he or she would not be entitled to the check received in January (December benefits). If the beneficiary was being paid benefits via direct deposit, the financial institution receiving those funds should be notified. Benefits received for the month in which the death occurred and any subsequent months that may occur are not yours to keep or spend. Social Security will make arrangements to reclaim those deposits. Some beneficiaries still prefer receiving their benefits in check form rather than via direct deposit. If this is the situation you have, you should not cash any checks received for the month in which death occurred or subsequent months. These checks must be returned to Social Security as promptly as possible. If returning the checks by mail, send them by certified mail return receipt. If you return them in person to the local Social Security office make sure you obtain a receipt. Make sure you keep these receipts so that if at a future date there is a question you will have proof of returning those checks. 4. Who is Entitled to Social Security Survivor Benefits? Survivors of the deceased beneficiary may be entitled to a one-time only death benefit. Generally the one-time death benefit payment of $255 is payable to the surviving spouse if he or she was living with the beneficiary at the time the death occurred or if living apart was receiving payments based on the beneficiary's Social Security account. If there is no surviving spouse the one-time death benefit will be paid to a child who was eligible for benefits on the beneficiary's account during the month in which the death occurred. There may be family members who are eligible for survivor's benefits. Those who may qualify are widows, widowers, dependent children and dependent parents. If you feel you are entitled to survivor benefits contact Social Security as soon as possible. If you are divorced, you are not entitled to the one-time $255 death benefit. However, if you are collecting benefits based on your ex-spouse's earnings, those benefits may be subject to change from ex-spousal benefits to full benefits upon his or her death. 5. How do I report a Death for a Recipient of Medical Assistance Benefits? When a recipient dies, the personal representative of the deceased recipient’s estate shall give notice to the department requesting a statement of claim, which is an accounting of all Medical Assistance payments made for the decedent for nursing home services, home and community based services and related hospital and prescription drug services. The notice shall be sent by certified mail return receipt or fax, with the deceased’s name, deceased’s last known address, deceased’s Social Security number, deceased’s date of birth, deceased’s date of death, and written documentation of the gross value of the deceased’s estate to: Division of Third Party Liability Department of Human Services Estate Recovery Program P.O. Box 8486 Harrisburg, PA 17105-8486 Fax # (717) 772-6553 Please be sure to include the personal representative’s name, address, and telephone number in the letter so the Medical Assistance Estate Recovery staff can respond. Within 45 days of receipt of an accurate and complete notice, the Department of Human Services must send to the personal representative of the estate, a statement of claim listing the amount of Medical Assistance paid. If the personal representative of the estate has questions about the amount owed or disagrees with it, he or she should contact the Medical Assistance Estate Recovery Program by telephone or letter. The Medical Assistance Estate Recovery Program will address any issues regarding the claim with the personal representative of the estate. 6. What Property of a Decedent is Subject to Estate Recovery for Medical Assistance Benefits? Any property or assets that are part of the deceased’s estate are subject to Medical Assistance Estate Recovery. An estate includes property or assets owned entirely or in part by the deceased. Medical Assistance Estate Recovery only recovers estate property or assets. 7. What happens if the spouse or a dependent child is still living after the Medical Assistance recipient dies? If the spouse is still living and the property passes to the surviving spouse outside of the estate, there is no recovery by the Department of Human Services. If there is a dependent child who is under age 21, recovery will be postponed until the child reaches age 21. For an adult child who is blind or totally and permanently disabled, recovery will be postponed until the adult child dies. 8. May I pay the funeral expenses from the decedent’s bank account without commencing and estate administration proceeding? Yes, if the balance of the account is less than $10,000. When someone dies, it’s not unusual to leave behind a bank account in that person’s name alone, rather than in an account held jointly or with a named beneficiary. Under Pennsylvania law, someone will have to open a probate estate for such accounts over $10,000. That means going to the Register of Wills office, filing papers, and going through a somewhat involved procedure, sometimes to close only one bank account. But if the account is $10,000 or less in value, Pennsylvania law allows next of kin to obtain funds remaining in the account with no need to open a probate estate. This rule is found in Pennsylvania’s statutes at 20 Pa. C.S. § 3101(b). It requires a family member to present to the bank a receipt (or an affidavit of a licensed funeral director) showing that “satisfactory arrangements for payment of funeral services have been made.” The bank must then pay the amount on deposit “to the spouse, any child, the father or mother or any sister or brother (preference being given in the order named) of the deceased depositor.” 9. How do I report a Death to the Public School Employees Retirement System (PSERS)? If you are a family member or responsible for the estate of a person receiving a monthly benefit payment from PSERS and wish to report the death of a retiree or survivor annuitant, please call them at 1.888.773.7748, or by email at ContactPSERS@pa.gov Information regarding the retirement option selected or remaining value of the account will not be released by phone or email. A copy of the death certificate, along with a letter stating your contact information, should be mailed to: DPC PSERS 5 N 5th Street Harrisburg PA 17101-1905 After PSERS receives this information, additional forms and/or information pertaining to the account will be sent to you and/or any named beneficiaries. 10. Should I close the decedent’s checking account(s) right away? We suggest that you leave a decedent’s checking account open for at least three months following the date of death. There are several reasons: i) to allow checks written prior to death to clear; ii) if you receive a check in the decedent’s name, it may be easier to deposit it in the checking account rather than an account opened for the estate; iii) to allow for previously arranged automatic deposits for wages, benefits, dividends, etc. 11. How do I get additional death certificates? The Pennsylvania Department of Health allows you to submit a request for a death certificate online here. Applicants can also mail paper applications to the Department of Health Division of Vital Records. Paper applications can be printed here. Both the online and paper applications allow you to specify the number of copies needed at $20.00 per certificate. Currently, the processing time for applications is approximately 3 weeks. 12. I’ve been appointed as an Executor to my loved ones Estate, do I need to accept the appointment? If you have been appointed to be the executor of an estate, you have the option to renounce the appointment. In these circumstances an alternative executor, if named in the decedent’s Will, or the next of kin as outlined by state succession laws, can step in as the estate’s executor. A Written Funeral Plan: Your Last Chance to Call the Shots (and Save Your Family a Headache) Fiffik Law Group, PC 4 days ago 3 min read Estate Planning Can’t Wait Until You Have Children Fiffik Law Group, PC Oct 17 3 min read Using Trusts to Keep Your Savings in the Family and Away from the In-laws Fiffik Law Group, PC Sep 15 3 min read Estate Planning for Women Over 50: How to Secure Your Family's Future & Prevent Disputes Fiffik Law Group, PC Aug 18 3 min read Understanding Probate in Pennsylvania: Your Top Questions Answered Fiffik Law Group, PC Aug 18 3 min read

Partner Matthew A. Bole Matt has practiced law since 2011 and primarily focuses in the areas of personal injury, estate administration, orphans court litigation, and civil litigation. Matt represents clients throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. His practice focuses primarily in the areas of personal injury, civil litigation, and estate planning. Matt has also served as a Hearing Committee Member for the Disciplinary Board of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania for the past four years. From 2015-2024, Matthew was chosen, from among thousands of attorneys, as a Pennsylvania Super Lawyer – Rising Star, which placed him in the top 2.5 percent of attorneys in Pennsylvania who are 40 or younger. Matt began working for Fiffik Law Group, PC as a law clerk while he was still attending Duquesne University School of Law. During Law school, Matt was a writer and senior staff member for the Duquesne Law Review and an active member in the Criminal Law Society. Matthew is currently a member of the Allegheny County Bar Association and the Allegheny County Bar Association’s Young Lawyers’ Division. BAR ADMISSIONS & EDUCATION The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, 2011 The Western District of Pennsylvania, 2011 J.D. Duquesne University, Magna Cum Laude, 2011 B.S. Penn State University, High Distinction, 2007 AREAS OF PRACTICE Personal Injury, Estate Administration, Orphans Court Litigation, Civil Litigation

Trusts Making sure your future is secured is one of the most essential things to do once you get older. Let our services help you through this process of ensuring your assets are handled. Key Differences Between a Will and a Trust Watch: Trusts & Esta te Planning E ducational Video Series Learn More About Trusts Watch: Yes You Need a Will! Here's Why and How TRUSTS & ESTATE PLANNING EDUCATIONAL VIDEO SERIES Video Series All Videos Play Video Play Video 03:07 Does A Trust Protect My Assets? | Trusts 101 In this installment of our educational video series on trusts and estate planning, Fiffik Law Group estate planning attorney Kevin Frankel, Esquire explains revocable and irrevocable trusts, and whether or not they protect your assets. If you’d like to dig into more specifics, we host a monthly free live webinar: Trusts 101 – Is a Trust Right for You? Register today for one of those sessions: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/fiffik-law-group-pc-29332501207?gclid=CjwKCAiAwc-dBhA7EiwAxPRylEwivvsVqqpCA6ZjfauzY1t3-loEy0IQJQVtX-oYxP3VGPS5zGKMKhoCzoQQAvD_BwE ~~~ Watch the other videos in this series: What is a Trust?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n8fqT2pJMW0 Why You Need a Trust: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wROuX3F5IXQ 4 Things Trusts Can Do: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLef4YH1EvE 12 Common Pitfalls to DIY Estate Planning: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jOz-nYmclRI ~~~ Schedule an estate planning appointment with Kevin Frankel: https://calendly.com/fepel/ep-virtual-fiffiklaw ~~~ For more information on trusts and estate planning, visit https://www.fiffiklaw.com/trusts-estate-planning. Play Video Play Video 05:50 12 Common Pitfalls to Do-It-Yourself Estate Planning | Trusts 101 In this installment of our educational video series on trusts and estate planning, Fiffik Law Group estate planning attorney Kevin Frankel, Esquire covers 12 common pitfalls to do-it-yourself estate planning. If you’d like to dig into more specifics, we host a monthly free live webinar: Trusts 101 – Is a Trust Right for You? Register today for one of those sessions: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/fiffik-law-group-pc-29332501207?gclid=CjwKCAiAwc-dBhA7EiwAxPRylEwivvsVqqpCA6ZjfauzY1t3-loEy0IQJQVtX-oYxP3VGPS5zGKMKhoCzoQQAvD_BwE ~~~ Watch the other videos in this series: What is a Trust?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n8fqT2pJMW0 Why You Need a Trust: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wROuX3F5IXQ 4 Things Trusts Can Do: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLef4YH1EvE Does a Trust Protect My Assets?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XL75yceQJZU ~~~ Schedule an estate planning appointment with Kevin Frankel: https://calendly.com/fepel/ep-virtual-fiffiklaw ~~~ For more information on trusts and estate planning, visit https://www.fiffiklaw.com/trusts-estate-planning. Play Video Play Video 06:18 4 Things Trusts Can Do | Trusts 101 In this installment of our educational video series on trusts and estate planning, Fiffik Law Group estate planning attorney Kevin Frankel, Esquire covers four things trusts can do. If you’d like to dig into more specifics, we host a monthly free live webinar: Trusts 101 – Is a Trust Right for You? Register today for one of those sessions: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/fiffik-law-group-pc-29332501207?gclid=CjwKCAiAwc-dBhA7EiwAxPRylEwivvsVqqpCA6ZjfauzY1t3-loEy0IQJQVtX-oYxP3VGPS5zGKMKhoCzoQQAvD_BwE ~~~ Watch the other videos in this series: What is a Trust?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n8fqT2pJMW0 Why You Need a Trust: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wROuX3F5IXQ 12 Common Pitfalls to DIY Estate Planning: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jOz-nYmclRI Does a Trust Protect My Assets?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XL75yceQJZU ~~~ Schedule an estate planning appointment with Kevin Frankel: https://calendly.com/fepel/ep-virtual-fiffiklaw ~~~ For more information on trusts and estate planning, visit https://www.fiffiklaw.com/trusts-estate-planning. Play Video Play Video 04:10 Why You Need A Trust | Trusts 101 In this installment of our educational video series on trusts and estate planning, Fiffik Law Group estate planning attorney Kevin Frankel, Esquire explains why you need a trust. If you’d like to dig into more specifics, we host a monthly free live webinar: Trusts 101 – Is a Trust Right for You? Register today for one of those sessions: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/fiffik-law-group-pc-29332501207?gclid=CjwKCAiAwc-dBhA7EiwAxPRylEwivvsVqqpCA6ZjfauzY1t3-loEy0IQJQVtX-oYxP3VGPS5zGKMKhoCzoQQAvD_BwE ~~~ Watch the other videos in this series: What is a Trust?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n8fqT2pJMW0 4 Things Trusts Can Do: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLef4YH1EvE 12 Common Pitfalls to DIY Estate Planning: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jOz-nYmclRI Does a Trust Protect My Assets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XL75yceQJZU ~~~ Schedule an estate planning appointment with Kevin Frankel: https://calendly.com/fepel/ep-virtual-fiffiklaw ~~~ For more information on trusts and estate planning, visit https://www.fiffiklaw.com/trusts-estate-planning. Play Video Play Video 02:31 What Is A Trust? | Trusts 101 In this installment of our educational video series on trusts and estate planning, Fiffik Law Group estate planning attorney Kevin Frankel, Esquire explains what a trust is. If you’d like to dig into more specifics, we host a monthly free live webinar: Trusts 101 – Is a Trust Right for You? Register today for one of those sessions: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/fiffik-law-group-pc-29332501207?gclid=CjwKCAiAwc-dBhA7EiwAxPRylEwivvsVqqpCA6ZjfauzY1t3-loEy0IQJQVtX-oYxP3VGPS5zGKMKhoCzoQQAvD_BwE ~~~ Watch the other videos in this series: Why You Need a Trust: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wROuX3F5IXQ 4 Things Trusts Can Do: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLef4YH1EvE 12 Common Pitfalls to DIY Estate Planning: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jOz-nYmclRI Does a Trust Protect My Assets?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XL75yceQJZU ~~~ Schedule an estate planning appointment with Kevin Frankel: https://calendly.com/fepel/ep-virtual-fiffiklaw ~~~ For more information on trusts and estate planning, visit https://www.fiffiklaw.com/trusts-estate-planning. For more in-depth information and education on estate planning: VISIT OUR EVENTS PAGE LEARN MORE ABOUT TRUSTS Planning for the distribution of assets at death is a great way to take care of your family. While there are many ways to do this, you should explore every option and consider the type of estate planning that’s appropriate for your situation. What is a trust? A trust is a type of legal entity that holds property for the benefit of people that you care about and is governed by a set of rules and managed by a trustee. Sometimes known as ‘will substitutes,’ revocable and irrevocable trusts are tools that you can use to help ensure your wishes are carried out, protect disabled beneficiaries, help children spend/budget properly, protect assets from creditors, and promote family harmony. Trusts can be created and funded during your lifetime. Some trusts, called “testamentary trusts”, are part of your Will and only come “alive” after you die under certain circumstances. Trusts are only for wealthy people, right? Wrong. They are not just for people with lots of assets; trusts can be used by anyone. In fact, most people who have young children and who have a Will probably have a testamentary trust in their Will. What’s included in a trust document? Generally, a trust document includes the name of the person who created it [known as the grantor or settlor], the names of the beneficiaries, the name of the trustee, rules for holding and investing the trust assets and directions on how to distribute the assets held in the trust to the beneficiaries. What are Revocable Trusts? Revocable trusts are created during your lifetime and can be revoked (i.e. cancelled) or amended at any time until the grantor either passes away or becomes incapacitated. These are sometimes called “living trusts”. The grantor is typically the trustee and has complete control of any assets held in the trust. During the life of the trust, income earned, taxed and distributed to the grantor. Upon the grantor’s death, it becomes irrevocable, and its assets are managed and distributed as the trust document directs. The trust can continue holding, managing and distributing assets for many years after the grantor’s death. What are Irrevocable Trusts? Irrevocable trusts are permanent. The grantor can’t make changes or updates to the trust. Once transferred, grantors effectively give up ownership rights to the assets. The trustee is in control of the assets and must administer the trust according to the trust document. Irrevocable trusts are often used to gain advantages for tax purposes. What are the key considerations for each type of trust? Advantages of a revocable trust include its flexibility (i.e., revocable, changeable, etc.), and the fact that its assets remain under the control of the grantor/trustee. Revocable trusts are private, meaning their details won’t become publicly known after the death of the settlor. Disadvantages include the initial cost of having an attorney draft the trust, as well as the time and cost of reregistering your property in the name of the trust. Revocable trusts should be reviewed and amended as circumstances change. Advantages to creating irrevocable trusts include protecting assets from creditors and spendthrift beneficiaries. They can be used to help preserve eligibility for government programs for special needs beneficiaries. They also can be an effective estate planning tool to minimize estate tax liability, especially in large estates. A disadvantage is implied in the name itself, in that it is irrevocable. Additionally, once transferred, you will effectively lose control over the assets placed in the trust. About Trusts THINKING ABOUT COMPLETING YOUR WILL TODAY? HERE'S WHY YOU SHOULD. yes you need a will

Careers Estate Planning Attorney Full Time | Hybrid | Mid Level Fiffik Law Group, a tech-forward statewide law firm, is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Estate Planning Attorney to join our team and help grow the firm’s established Estate Planning and Elder Law practice. In this role, you will handle a variety of legal matters, with a focus on estate planning, elder law and estate administration. The position offers the opportunity to work with a steady stream of referrals for estate planning and elder law, build long-term client relationships, and expand the practice through referred business. You will gain legal experience, contribute to case strategy, and collaborate under the guidance of experienced attorneys while developing your own professional expertise. This is a hybrid position, offering the flexibility to work from home while also attending in-office client meetings in Hanover, PA. LEARN MORE & APPLY LegalShield Attorney Full Time | Remote | Mid Level Ready to take your legal career in a different direction? Tired of the courtroom? Looking for a renewed sense of purpose combined with personal flexibility and fully-remote work? Interested in being part of an innovative team that disrupts the traditional system by making access to legal guidance and services readily available and affordable to everyone? Then consider joining the LegalShield team at Fiffik Law Group, PC, a tech-forward statewide law firm. What we offer you: Fully-remote work and no courtroom appearances. Company-provided computer, phone, office supplies and access to LexisNexis. Comprehensive benefits, including medical, vision, dental, short-term disability and life insurance, wellness benefit, generous 401(k) contribution, paid holidays and vacation and opportunities to earn bonus pay. Reimbursed annual PA bar dues and CLE offered. LEARN MORE & APPLY

Consult with a LegalShield attorney today! Your LegalShield membership grants you access to fast and easy legal services. Our LegalShield attorneys are available and ready to take on your case today. LegalShield Member Hub Request for Consultation Thanks for getting the most out of your LegalShield membership and reaching out to us. Your matter is very important - we look forward to solving it as efficiently as possible. Please be descriptive when filling out the form below. Somebody from our team of attorneys will be reaching out soon. First Name Last Name Email LegalShield Member ID Phone Summary of Legal Matter Name of Opposing Party in Legal Matter Have you requested a Will questionaire from Fiffik Law Group? * Yes No Request a Will questionaire Request a Consultation Submitted! Thanks for requesting!

Fiffik Law Group, PC has the experienced Estate Planning attorneys necessary to effectively handle your wills, trusts, probate administration, and powers of attorney matters. We offer free resources to get your Wills and other Estate Planning matters handled today. Estate & Trust Planning Get Your Estate Plan Started Today Fill out our online questionnaire. Once it's submitted, one of our estate planning attorneys will contact you for next steps. GET STARTED Wills Learn More Trusts Learn More Power of Attorney Learn More Digital Estate Planning Learn More Estate planning is the process of designating who will receive your assets and handle your responsibilities after your death or incapacitation. One goal is to ensure beneficiaries receive assets in a way that minimizes estate tax, gift tax, and other taxes. Estate planning can help establish a platform you can fine-tune as your personal and financial situations change. The key question to ask yourself is: How do you want to take care of your loved ones after you're gone? Estate Planning Experience Believe it or not, you have an estate. In fact, nearly everyone does. Your estate consists of everything you own: your car, home, other real estate, checking and savings accounts, investments, furniture, and personal possessions. No matter how large or how modest, everyone has an estate and something in common - you cannot take it with you when you're gone. When that happens, you're going to want to control how those things are given to the people or organizations you care most about. To ensure your wishes are carried out as intended, you need to provide instructions for your assets with, typically, the least amount paid in taxes and fees. People put off estate planning because they think they do not own enough, they are not old enough, or they think the process will be costly and confusing. Then when something happens to them, their families have to pick up the pieces. So don't wait - you can put something in place today and change it later. Just knowing you have a properly prepared plan in place - one that contains your instructions and will protect your family - will give you and your family peace of mind. If you're considering starting or changing any type of estate plan, contacting our experienced attorneys is the right place to start. Get Your Estate Plan Started Today Fill out our online questionnaire. Once it's submitted, one of our estate planning attorneys will contact you for next steps. COMPLETE ESTATE PLANNING QUESTIONNAIRE A Written Funeral Plan: Your Last Chance to Call the Shots (and Save Your Family a Headache) Fiffik Law Group, PC 4 days ago 3 min read Estate Planning Can’t Wait Until You Have Children Fiffik Law Group, PC Oct 17 3 min read Using Trusts to Keep Your Savings in the Family and Away from the In-laws Fiffik Law Group, PC Sep 15 3 min read Estate Planning for Women Over 50: How to Secure Your Family's Future & Prevent Disputes Fiffik Law Group, PC Aug 18 3 min read Understanding Probate in Pennsylvania: Your Top Questions Answered Fiffik Law Group, PC Aug 18 3 min read

Nursing Home Neglect The nursing home abuse lawyers at Fiffik Law Group strive to keep the elder community as safe as possible. Our firm takes pride in assisting any families whose parents or grandparents have been neglected in nursing homes. How to Spot Nursing Home Neglect Neglect can come in many forms. Here are a few troubling examples of how nursing homes can neglect those they should be caring for: Neglect of Basic Needs Though it may seem unthinkable that a nursing home would neglect the most basic needs of their patients, it happens all the time. It is sadly common for those in a nursing home to suffer from malnutrition and dehydration. Look for signs that your loved one doesn’t have basic needs (such as water and food). These signs could include weight loss, confusion, or sunken eyes. Neglect of Personal Hygiene For the elderly, daily hygiene without help can be challenging. Nursing home neglect victims may not be getting help with basic hygiene needs, like fresh clothes or help with teeth brushing. If you noticed your loved one in a nursing home doesn’t seem to be up to his or her usual standards for cleanliness, it may signal that the staff isn’t helping them with bathing, grooming, or basic hygiene. Emotional Neglect The signs of neglect are often the signs of aging (weight loss, confusion, or trouble with balance), so identifying neglect is difficult. Perhaps the most challenging of all neglects to spot, however, is emotional neglect. There are no physical signs that your loved one is being emotionally neglected, but to someone who is lonely, it can be as bad as any other form of abuse. When staff aren’t kind or friendly to those in the nursing home or they ignore their patients completely, it is a form of neglect. Medical Neglect Most people place their loved one in a nursing home in order for them to receive proper care – both daily care and medical care. Unfortunately, some nursing homes neglect the medical needs of the elderly. Some signs of medical neglect include bed sores. Bed sores are basically wounds from pressure – the pressure of sitting or lying in one position too long. Other signs of medical neglect include untreated cuts and failure to provide necessary medications. Common Injuries in Nursing Home Neglect Cases Nursing home neglect can lead to significant physical, emotional, and sexual injuries to residents, as well as wrongful death. Many common injuries are powerful evidence of nursing home neglect. Bed sores, also known as pressure ulcers Overmedication and overdose Malnourishment and dehydration Infections Dosage and medication errors Injuries from sexual abuse Broken bones and fractures Hip fractures Improper wound aftercare Sepsis and cellulitis Seizures Coma Cardiac arrest Mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD The Importance of Communication and Regular Visits Sadly, nursing home staff are less likely to abuse those whose loved ones visit regularly. The elderly are often unable to say outright that the nursing home is neglecting their basic needs. Patients may fear that the neglect may turn to abuse if they speak out. Afraid and unable to clearly explain what is happening, the abused person may think that they have no options. Protect your loved one from nursing home neglect by having regular interactions with them. Though they may not be able to explain neglect, when a loved one communicates regularly, he or she may be abler to see irregularities that aren’t simply signs of age. If you have a loved one in a nursing home, be diligent about the abuse or neglect that may be happening to those who only have staff members to rely on. Two Main Types of Claims Against a Nursing Home for Neglect Personal Injury Lawsuit Negligence, abuse, or neglect led to the nursing home resident’s injuries. Wrongful Death lawsuit The nursing home’s actions cause the elderly person’s death. Your loved one will need to file the lawsuit themselves unless they sign a power of attorney that allows you or another trusted individual to file the lawsuit on your loved one’s behalf. Your loved one will need to be of sound mind when he or she signs this document, so if your loved one has dementia or Alzheimer’s, this may pose an additional issue. If you cannot obtain a power of attorney document, you can obtain guardianship for your loved one. You will need to obtain this status through a court order. You will need to pay additional fees and attend more court appointments prior to obtaining guardianship. Monetary Damages Available for Nusing Home Neglect Victims You can recover multiple forms of damages in nursing home neglect lawsuits. Medical expenses, including medication, surgeries, hospitalization, and therapy Funeral and burial expenses Pain and suffering Mental anguish Loss of quality of life Disability Punitive damages for especially negligent cases

The experienced Criminal Defense attorneys at Fiffik Law Group, PC are ready to walk you through your rights and possible penalties you may face if you have been charged with theft, fraud, robbery, stealing, or burglary in Pennsylvania. Theft Charges The type of theft offense a person is charged with and the severity of the penalties associated with the crime depends upon the value of the goods or services taken, and whether or not the defendant has any prior theft convictions. A Pennsylvania theft attorney can help determine the best defense strategy that fits the specifics of their client’s charge, whether it be a felony or misdemeanor, and the circumstances surrounding it. Types of Offenses MISDEMEANOR THEFT In Pennsylvania, theft can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. Shoplifting is a type of theft charge. While a misdemeanor charge is less serious than a felony, it shouldn’t be taken lightly. There are three possible charges misdemeanor theft charges and each charge carries the possibility of jail time. Misdemeanor 3 Theft – when the value of the stolen goods is less than $50. A conviction of Misdemeanor 3 Shoplifting carries a maximum penalty of up to one year in jail. Misdemeanor 2 Theft – when the value of the stolen goods is over $50. A conviction of Misdemeanor 2 Shoplifting can result in up to three years in jail. Misdemeanor 1 Theft – when the value of the stolen goods is more than $200. A conviction of Misdemeanor Shoplifting 1 carries a maximum penalty of five years in jail. FELONY THEFT Theft, including shoplifting, is automatically charged as a felony if the items stolen are valued at more than $2,000. You could face up to seven years in jail if convicted of felony shoplifting in Pennsylvania. The charge will also be a felony if a firearm is used during the commission of the crime, regardless of the value of the items stolen. Both a felony and misdemeanor charge will become part of your record. However, a felony is the more serious of the two charges and frequently requires jail time. It can also prevent you from working in some fields. A misdemeanor is more likely to result in alternative sentencing, such as a fine or community service. The final decision of whether you receive jail time for your theft charge depends on several factors. If you have a previous record of theft or shoplifting, you are more likely to receive jail time. On the other hand, if this is your first conviction, you may be fortunate enough to receive probation or community service. RECEIVING STOLEN PROPERTY Typically, when charged with theft by unlawful taking, you will likewise be charged with receiving stolen property. If you keep property that you know is stolen, you are considered guilty of receiving stolen property according to Pennsylvania law. The District Attorney will try to get you to plead guilty to both of these charges. FALSE WORKPLACE ACCUSATIONS Many workers are accused of criminal actions at work by employers, clients, or even co-workers. Charges often involve the theft of company goods, money, or time, falsifying time cards, expense reports, embezzlement, and shortages in a cash register. Your job and your reputation are on the line. Theft is the type of conviction that is likely to disqualify you from any future employment. The financial security of you and your family is on the line. A person accused of theft should contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as they have any indication that they might be charged. The earlier the attorney can get started, the better opportunity they will have to prepare a successful defense. If you are facing a theft charge, it is crucial you work with an experienced Pennsylvania theft attorney who can pursue reduced charges on your behalf and investigate if any theft defenses may apply in your case. Whether you have a history of theft convictions or have never before been charged with a crime, an attorney will look out for your best interest throughout the judicial process.

Business partner disputes are among the most frequently filed business dispute lawsuits. Our experienced business law attorneys can help your small business needs. We're in the business of helping your small business achieve success. Business Disputes and Litigation As businesses mature, they face increasingly complex issues, requiring more sophisticated consultation and strategic planning. Some issues you might be facing include: What type of contracts should I have with my customers, clients and vendors? How do I deal with human resource issues, including wage claims and terminating employees? Should I have employment agreements to protect my client lists and other trade secret information? What tax-saving devices should I be using? How should I negotiate a new lease for my business or new equipment? Attorney Experience Our business lawyers help established businesses expand, deal with their growth, and put them in the best place for future growth and success. Our clients operate a wide range of businesses, including: Trucking companies Commercial crane operations Residential and commercial contractors, plumbers, HVAC and other trades Health clubs Consumer and commercial retailers Commercial fire and security systems sales Restaurants and bars Pediatric therapists Chiropractic clinics Flight school Accounting practices Early intervention child care coordination Visiting nurse providers Security companies Our lawyers have provided a wide array of services to our established business clients, including: Client and vendor contracts Promissory notes, loan and collateral agreements Guarantee agreements Escrow agreements Employment contracts, non-compete agreements and other employee agreements Consulting and agency agreements Management agreements Preferred stock and subscription agreements Non-disclosure agreements License agreements Commercial leases Representative Cases Investors in commercial real estate development with HUD financing and historic tax credits Limited partnership negotiating a commercial foreclosure workout, resulting in positive cash flow Resolutions for shareholder disputes in various industries, including real estate, healthcare, and restaurants B2B provider acquiring intellectual property, including trademarks and service agreements Business owner navigating a wage and hour audit, reducing wage, interest, and penalty assessments

For some business owners, buying a business is much more practical than starting a business venture from the start-up phase. On the other hand, if you're thinking about selling your business, there are many complicated processes that you might need an experienced business law attorney for. Buying & Selling Business If you are considering buying or selling a business, our attorneys will be able to assist you through the whole process. Buying or selling a business can be scary... maybe even a new experience. Our attorneys at Fiffik Law Group, PC will allow you to start this exciting chapter with ease by helping you buy/sell your business. The buying and selling process can be complex and involves many questions. How do you value the business? How do you market it? How do you negotiate with a potential buyer or seller? What are the tax consequences? What steps do you take to close the deal? These are just a few of the issues that must be addressed. All too frequently a business owner or buyer travels partway down the acquisition road without involving professionals with the result, at worst, of creating major problems and, at best, depriving themselves of the substantial benefits of preliminary professional analysis and planning. Our business lawyers have facilitated the purchases and sale of many businesses. Our attorneys can help you with all of the issues that arise during the process, including: Organization of the professional team Decisions to buy or sell Preliminary planning on how to structure the acquisition Obtaining financing for a purchase Preliminary discussions with transaction partners Preparing and executing letters of intent Negotiating, drafting and executing purchase agreements Conducting a due diligence review of the relevant company information Document preparation Closing Post-closing clean up Representative Cases Facilitated the marketing and sale of Johnstown area local pharmacy to national retailer pharmacy chain Assisted physician buyout of center-city Philadelphia medical practice with multiple locations Negotiated the formation of a joint venture and represented the group in the acquisition of a historic downtown Pittsburgh office building Completed sale of longtime Pittsburgh restaurant included with co-branding arrangement between parties who both continue to operate under the same valuable brand Counseled clients through the sale of a crane business and associated real estate that included various post-closing executory contracts Advised clients in several transactions involving the purchase or sale of national franchises including Subway, Sportsclips, Snap-On, Quaker Steak & Lube, Snap-Fitness, 9Round, Contours Express, Curves, Pizza Outlet, and UPS Stores Negotiated buy-out of partners in commercial trucking and warehouse business - assisted the same client in eventual sale of the business Facilitated the sale of three funeral homes following a litigation settlement, including assets and real estate

Our experienced Pennsylvania real estate attorneys represent individuals and businesses in a variety of real estate advice and litigation including real estate closings, boundary and land disputes, and other real estate issues. Real Estate Real Estate Experience Whether you are buying or selling real estate, have landlord and tenant concerns, or have a boundary dispute, having a lawyer in your corner is critical to the success of any real estate law issue. We handle over 2,500 real estate matters annually. With more than 25 years of experience handling real estate closings and litigation, our experienced real estate lawyers know what it takes to ensure that your rights are protected. From our headquarters in Pittsburgh and our network of affiliated offices throughout Pennsylvania, we assist Pennsylvania clients with all real estate concerns. Clover Lane Settlement Services is a real estate title agency providing clients with the smoothest closing experience possible. Michael Fiffik, Esquire and Susan Green teamed up to create Clover Lane Settlement Services because after years of working as an approved attorney for various title companies, Michael found that having his own title agency would help eliminate pain points throughout a transaction. With almost 40 years of combined experience in the real estate settlement and property management businesses, Michael and Susan are well adept at achieving clean, seamless transactions, whether they be for $10,000 lots, $20 million corporate deals, or anything else in between. LEARN MORE Residential Real Estate The process of buying property can be complicated. A recent report from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau describes real estate closings as confusing, stressful, time-pressured, and filled with delays. A settlement agent or title company will be involved in the closing. You have the right to choose who will provide those services. Choosing the right settlement agent is critical to avoiding these common complaints. Take control of the process by allowing one of our experienced real estate attorneys to serve as the settlement agent. How We Can Help Draft and review sales agreements Conduct title searches Assist for sale by owner (FSBO) sellers Prepare deeds Add names to and make changes to deeds Review settlement statements and closing disclosures Serve as a settlement agent or title company for real estate closings Issue title insurance policies Negotiate title and boundary disputes Advise on condo and homeowner association rights and fees Defend foreclosure notices and lawsuits Advise on right of way matters Fences, overhanging tree, and other boundary matters Respond to zoning and municipal citations Prosecute and defend real estate lawsuits Buying a home is exciting, but it can be an extremely complicated process. Click below for a free toolkit from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. It's a booklet that can help you make better choices along your path to owning a home. DOWNLOAD HOME TOOLKIT Throughout your home purchase, third parties—such as your real estate attorney and your mortgage lender—have performed services. Closing costs include the fees these professionals (as well as others) charge for these services to finalize the real estate transaction and your home loan. Click below to get an estimate of closing costs on your home purchase. CLOSING COST CALCULATOR Residential Commercial Commercial Real Estate Commercial property makes for quite a significant investment market. Our experience goes beyond residential properties; we help our clients navigate the tricky world of renting, owning, and leasing commercial properties. At Fiffik Law Group, we will help you through the process with ease. Our real estate attorneys have a lot of experience when it comes to buying/selling commercial property. Commercial property is used for non-residential activities such as hotels, office space, retail shops, industrial buildings, public facilities, etc. Similar to residential property, the owner can operate a business from the commercial property they own or lease some or all of the space to tenants. This makes commercial property quite a significant investment market. Our expertise goes beyond residential properties; we help our clients navigate through the tricky world of renting, owning, and leasing commercial properties. Our team of real estate attorneys has been approved by: The First American Title Guaranty Company Fidelity National Title Company Commonwealth Land Title Insurance Company Chicago Title Insurance Company Conestoga Title Insurance Company. 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Jessica Hosenpud Associate Attorney Jessica is a graduate, cum laude, of Pennsylvania State University, The Dickinson School of Law. During law school she worked for various nonprofit organizations and served as an Extern in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania for Judge William Caldwell. After graduation, she served as Law Clerk for the Honorable Judge Carol L. Van Horn, in the Pennsylvania Court of Common Pleas for Franklin County. She then began her career as an associate in a boutique litigation firm primarily practicing in the areas of civil rights and family law. She joined Fiffik Law Group in October of 2019. BAR ADMISSIONS & EDUCATION Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, 2009 PA Federal District Court, Middle District, 2012 PA Federal District Court, Eastern District, 2013 United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, 2013 Pennsylvania State University, The Dickinson School of Law BA, University of Wisconsin – Madison AREAS OF PRACTICE Litigation, Civil Rights Law, Municipal Law, Insurance, Employment Law, Family Law