Search Results

There appears to be an ongoing battle brewing between the Executive and Judicial Branch of our federal government over whether court orders must be followed and exactly what it means to comply with a court order. It’s a story line we’re following with great interest. How does it apply to you, especially if you have a court order in your life that you need to deal with. Let's face it, court orders aren't always welcome. They can disrupt your life, require you to do things you don't want to do, or prevent you from doing things you enjoy. But ignoring a court order is like playing chicken with the legal system – and you're almost guaranteed to lose. Think of a court order as a direct instruction from the judge. It's not a suggestion, a request, or a gentle nudge. It's the law, plain and simple. And disobeying the law comes with consequences. So, what are those consequences? Let's dive in. Examples of Common Court Orders Here are examples of court orders that might impact your life: Child custody Child support Alimony/Spousal support Divorce decree with provisions on dividing marital assets, including a qualified domestic relations order Protection from (domestic) abuse Cease and desist order Injunction Temporary restraining order Subpoena (to produce documents or attend a hearing) Order to compel – often issued in conjunction with litigation forcing someone to produce documents or other evidence Order to show cause – issued to someone as a respondent to litigation to explain why the court should not grant the relief requested by the other party Bench warrant – issued in a criminal case demanding that a defendant appear in court Contempt of Court: The most common consequence of disobeying a court order is being held in contempt of court. This means the court finds you willfully disobedient and disrespecting the legal process. There are two main types of contempt in Pennsylvania: Civil Contempt This is designed to coerce you into complying with the original order. The idea is to get you to finally do what the court told you to do in the first place. Imagine a parent ordered to pay child support refusing to do so. The court might jail that parent until they start making payments. The key here is that you hold the key to your freedom by complying with the order. Criminal Contempt This is designed to punish you for your past defiance. It's a finding that you deliberately disregarded the court's authority. Penalties can include fines, jail time, or both. For example, if you blatantly disregarded a restraining order, the court might sentence you to jail for a specific period as punishment for your actions. If a person is found in contempt for failure to follow the court’s child custody order, they face the following potential penalties: up to 6 months in jail; a maximum fine of $500; attorney’s fees and costs; and a driver’s license suspension. So, What Happens Specifically? It Depends. The exact consequences depend on several factors, including: The nature of the court order: Was it a child custody order? A restraining order? An order to produce documents? Some orders carry more weight due to the potential for harm if they are violated. Is it a repeated offense: A first time offense may generate a warning and affirmation of the court order. Additional violations may result in progressively more severe penalties. The severity of the disobedience: Was it a minor oversight or a flagrant disregard for the order? Your intent: Did you willfully disobey the order, or was there a legitimate reason why you couldn't comply? The judge's discretion: Judges have broad discretion in deciding what sanctions are appropriate. Potential Consequences Can Include: Fines: Ranging from relatively small amounts to sub stantial sums, depending on the violation. Jail Time: For civil contempt, jail time continues until you comply. For criminal contempt, you'll serve a fixed sentence. Loss of Rights or Privileges: This can include losing custody of your children, losing the right to visit your children, or being restricted in other ways. Violations of court orders within the context of litigation can result in the loss of rights. For example, if a party to the case refuses to comply with an order requiring them to produce certain documents or evidence, the court might prohibit them from presenting their own evidence on some or all aspects of the case. The failure to meet court deadlines might result in losing the ability to present evidence or even witnesses in the case. Attorney's Fees: You might be ordered to pay the other party's attorney's fees incurred in trying to enforce the order. Further Court Orders: The court can modify the original order or issue new orders to address the disobedience. Criminal Charges: In some extreme cases, defying a court order can even lead to separate criminal charges, such as obstruction of justice. But I Couldn't Comply! Is There a Defense? Yes, potentially. A common defense is inability to comply. This means you can show the court that, through no fault of your own, you were genuinely unable to follow the order. This is not simply "I didn't want to," but rather demonstrating circumstances outside of your control made compliance impossible. You must demonstrate this convincingly and with evidence. Final Thoughts Ignoring a court order in Pennsylvania is a risky move. The potential consequences are serious and can significantly impact your life and your wallet. What should you do if you're having trouble complying with a court order? Don't ignore it! Read the order carefully and understand exactly what it’s requiring you to do. Contact an attorney immediately. We can help you understand the order, explore your options, and represent you in court. Seek clarification. If you’re unsure what the order says or intends, you can ask the court to clarify or even modify the order. Be honest with the court. Transparency and good faith go a long way. Document everything. Keep records of your attempts to comply and any reasons why you couldn't. If you have questions about a court order that applies to you, call the experienced attorneys at Fiffik Law Group. We can help you understand the order, your obligations and your options.

Even though nobody knows for sure how it started, April Fools’ Day is the unofficial day for pulling pranks and practical jokes on those around you. But pranks are only fun until somebody gets hurt and lawyers have to get involved. If you are planning an April Fools’ Day prank, first take a look at these pranks that you might want to avoid – because yes, you can absolutely be sued for an April Fools’ Day prank! Physical assault Example: An employee puts a “kick me” sign on the back of a coworker. His other coworkers actually kick him, resulting in injuries . The employee with the “kick me” sign sues the company, and the coworkers who put the sign on him and kicked him receive misdemeanor battery charges and are fired. Unlawful imprisonment Example: An employee pushes a heavy piece of furniture in front of his coworker’s office door to trap him in his office. The coworker has an important meeting and misses it because he cannot get out of his office. Even if the coworker was only confined for a brief period of time, he can still file false imprisonment charges – the length of time does not affect the validity of the claim. False police report filing Example: While on a zoom call with friends, a girl pretends to be abducted. Thinking the abduction is real, her friends call 911. Even though the people who called 911 are in the clear since they honestly believed a crime was occurring, the person who faked the abduction could face consequences when the police arrive to find that the situation was faked. Food or drink tampering Example: A man feeds his neighbor a sandwich containing pork even though he knows his neighbor cannot eat pork for religious reasons. The man’s neighbor sues him for food tampering, which is a Felony . Property damage/vandalism Example: A group of friends decide to egg a man’s house. This is vandalism, and if the property damage exceeds $250, the misdemeanor charge could be upgraded to a Felony. Trespassing Example: A woman hides in her friend’s closet so she can jump out and scare her when she thinks nobody is home. When she jumps out, the friend mistakenly thinks she is a dangerous intruder, and attacks her in self-defense . Reckless driving Example: A teen who is driving wants to scare his friend by driving toward him at a high speed in the school parking lot. He loses control and the friend cannot get out of the way in time, resulting in serious injuries and charges filed against the driver. If you were the victim of an April Fools’ Day prank gone wrong, contact one of our experienced attorneys because you know what they say about pay backs. We’ll make them pay!

Tax season can become spooky season if you’re not careful about who is running the calculations. According to IRS estimates , ~$9.1 billion was caught up in tax fraud and financial crimes in 2024. While there are no concrete numbers, a chunk can be attributed to unscrupulous tax grifters known as “ghost preparers” who disappear with your money.   What Are Ghost Tax Preparers? Ghost tax preparers are fraudulent individuals who prepare tax returns for others but refuse to sign them. By not signing, they leave the taxpayer solely responsible for any mistakes or fraudulent claims in the return. These scams take many forms, but they often follow a similar pattern.   How the Scam Works The ghost preparer might entice you to work with them by listing fake deductions and credits on your return to make your refund look bigger than it really is. Many charge you a percentage of your expected refund, so the larger your refund looks, the more they get paid. Once your tax return is filled out, the ghost preparer might even take off with your refund, then disappear. When the IRS starts investigating, the ghost preparer is gone, and you're left responsible for any errors or fraudulent activity. You'll likely have to pay back the refund – even if your preparer stole it – plus interest and penalties.   To avoid detection, ghost preparers refuse to sign the tax return, leaving you as the only responsible party in the eyes of the IRS. This lack of a signature is a major red flag, as legitimate preparers are required to sign any returns they prepare.   As a final insult, since you gave the preparer your personal and financial information to file the return, they can also use that information to steal your identity.   How to Avoid Ghost Preparers The IRS warns taxpayers to take these precautions:   Choose a Reputable Tax Professional Check if the preparer has a valid Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) using the IRS Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers. Certified Public Accountants (CPAs), Enrolled Agents (EAs), and tax attorneys are legitimate professionals who are qualified to prepare tax returns and represent you before the IRS. Ask others for recommendations - Fiffik Law Group is happy to recommend trusted local tax professionals.   Be Wary of Unsolicited Tax Services If a tax preparer reaches out to you with an unsolicited offer, be cautious. Scammers often target taxpayers with promises of large refunds or special tax credits.   Approach Refund Promises with Healthy Skepticism No tax preparer can guarantee a refund before reviewing your financial situation.   Ask About the Service’s Pricing Structure If fees are based on a percentage of your refund or they operate as a cash-only business, that’s another red flag, says the IRS. Tax accountants should charge a flat or hourly rate and provide receipts for their services.   Ensure They Sign the Return A legitimate tax preparer must sign your tax return and include their PTIN.   What to Do If You Fall Victim? No matter who prepares your tax return, you are legally accountable for its contents. If you suspect you have been scammed:   Report the Fraud to the IRS File Form 14157 (Complaint: Tax Return Preparer) and, if applicable, Form 14157-A (Return Preparer Fraud or Misconduct Affidavit).   Monitor Your Credit If identity theft is suspected, place a fraud alert on your credit report and monitor your financial accounts closely.   Consider an Identity Theft Protection Service Protect your security with identity and credit monitoring. IDShield   not only alerts you about threats, they’ll also work for as long as it takes to restore your identity to its pre-theft status.   Avoiding tax scams requires vigilance, especially during filing season when fraudulent preparers are actively seeking victims. While the promise of a bigger refund may be tempting, working with a legitimate, credentialed tax preparer is the safest way to ensure accuracy and compliance. If you suspect you've been targeted by a ghost preparer, reporting the fraud and monitoring your financial information can help mitigate potential damage.

Bankruptcy cannot cure every financial problem. Nor is it the right step for every individual. There are four debt problems that usually cannot be completely solved by filing bankruptcy: creditors with liens on your assets, domestic relations obligations, co-signers on accounts and post-bankruptcy debts. 1. Secured Creditors In bankruptcy, it is usually not possible to eliminate liens that “secured” creditors have on your assets, such as a car or home. A creditor is “secured” if it has taken a mortgage or other lien on property as collateral for a loan. Common examples include car loans and home mortgages. You can force secured creditors to take payments over time in the bankruptcy process and bankruptcy can eliminate your personal obligation to pay any additional money on the debt if you decide to give back the property. But you generally cannot keep secured property unless you continue to pay the debt. 2. Domestic Relations Obligations A bankruptcy will not discharge some debts singled out by the bankruptcy law for special treatment such as child support , alimony, most student loans, court restitution orders, criminal fines , and most taxes. 3. Co-Signers Bankruptcy will not protect people who co-sign for your accounts. When a relative or friend has co-signed a loan, and the consumer discharges the loan in bankruptcy, the cosigner may still have to repay all or part of the loan. 4. Debts Incurred After Filing Finally, bankruptcy will not discharge debts that arise after bankruptcy has been filed. We understand the stress and sleepless nights that arise from difficult financial times. Our bankruptcy attorneys are ready to get you some relief and back on the path to good credit. Contact us today for a free initial consultation.

Life is a journey of change and growth, and your estate plan should evolve with it. Here are eight signs that signal it is time to update your estate plan, ensuring it aligns with your current wishes and circumstances: 1. Marriage or Divorce When you get married , you’ll likely want to provide for your spouse in your estate plan. This means a new will, power of attorney and updated beneficiary forms for retirement accounts and life insurance. That could also include a prenuptial agreement if this is a second marriage for you. Conversely, during a divorce, you may want to revise your plan to remove your former spouse or adjust your beneficiaries. Read More: Remarriage and Estate Planning 2. Birth or Adoption of Children You should update your plan to ensure it provides comprehensive care and financial security for your child. This includes designating guardians in the event your health prevents you from caring for your children. You’ll also need a plan for your children after you’re gone and specifying how your assets should be managed for their benefit. 3. Purchase of Real Estate or Significant Assets Acquiring valuable assets, such as a home, necessitates updating your estate plan to specify who should inherit or manage these new holdings, protecting your investments and ensuring a smooth transition. 4. Business Ownership If you own a business, your estate plan begins with plan for running your business in the event of a sudden health event. You should have a clear succession plan , identifying who will take charge in the event once you’re gone. You can also include buy-sell agreements to define the terms of the sale or transfer of business shares, safeguarding the interests of your business partners and family members. 5. Health Issues If you or a family member faces a decline in health, you should consider updating your estate plan to address medical decisions, long-term care needs, and financial arrangements for medical expenses. 6. Digital Assets If you have not revisited your Will in many years, you will find that in today's digital world, it's important to consider what happens to our digital lives after we're gone. Digital assets include email accounts, social media profiles, online banking, and more. You will want to designate a digital executor and provide them with a list of your accounts and passwords to protect your online legacy. 7. Relocation to a Different State or Country Different locations have varying laws, so if you move, it is wise to review your estate plan and adjust if necessary to comply with local regulations and ensure it is legally valid. 8. Death of Beneficiary or Executor The passing of a beneficiary of executor named in your will requires updates to your estate plan to reflect this change and designate new individuals to fulfill these roles. Your estate plan should adapt to life’s twists and turns. Contact the experienced estate planning attorneys at Fiffik Law Group to start or update your estate plan today.

The sun is shining, the birds and chirping, and the flowers are blooming. Happy first day of spring! Even though we are all excited to get out and enjoy the new season, be careful not to put too much spring in your step – with more people outdoors, there is an increased chance for accidents and injuries to occur on or near the road. Be on the lookout for the following types of situations: Bicycle Accidents Many people ride their bikes to commute and exercise once the weather permits. By law, bicycles on the roadway have the same rights and responsibilities as motorized vehicles, according to the NHTSA. If you are riding your bike on the road, be sure to follow all traffic laws, use hand signals, stay in the designated bike lane if there is one, and, of course, wear your helmet. If you are driving your car around bicyclists, be sure to slow down, keep your distance, and double-check that the other lane is clear before passing them. Bicyclist deaths account for 2 percent of all motor vehicle traffic fatalities and 2 percent of all people injured in traffic accidents, according to the NSC - stay vigilant and do not be a part of that statistic! Pedestrian Accidents Just like with bicycles, the warmer weather and sunshine encourages people to walk, jog, and run outdoors. Just like with bicyclists, when driving your car, be sure to slow down when you are near pedestrians, and keep in mind that they have the right-of-way. If you are a pedestrian, make sure you follow the rules of the road, look both ways before crossing the street, and walk on sidewalks when possible. Just because pedestrians technically have the right-away does not guarantee cars will always stop in time. Pedestrian accidents do not only occur on busy road either – think of children playing in the front yard and running unexpectedly into the street, pets getting off their leash or hopping a fence onto the street, etc. Pedestrian deaths account for almost 20 percent of all traffic fatalities, according to the GHSA. That percentage becomes even higher in states that are warmer year-round. It is essential for both drivers and pedestrians to take extra caution when sharing the road to avoid preventable tragedies. Hazardous Weather and Road Conditions April showers bring May flowers – and hazardous road conditions. Be on the lookout for potential flooding and remember that even a small amount of rain can make the road dangerous and slippery. When it is not raining, even sunshine can be dangerous when a glare temporarily blinds a driver. Always keep a pair of sunglasses in your car, and do not hesitate to pull over if you are unable to see clearly. Spring also brings an increase in wildlife activity. Pay attention to the road ahead of you to avoid hitting animals. If an animal, such as a deer, does jump in front of you unexpectedly, brake and stay in your lane. Do not swerve to avoid an animal – serving can cause you to lose control of your car and result in a much more serious accident. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a motor vehicle accident, we are ready to help your family recover from this tragedy and pursue legal action against those responsible. You may be entitled to compensation for past and future medical bills, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, disability, disfigurement or emotional distress. Contact one of the experienced personal injury attorneys at Fiffik Law Group to help you get the compensation you deserve. For more information, check out Bankrate's Road Safety Guide for both cyclists and drivers. Their guide includes cyclists safety tips, bicycle safety features, bike road rules, and tips for drivers.

The global economic landscape is constantly shifting, and recent tariff impositions on goods from Canada, Mexico, and China are making small business owners nervous. We want to provide clarity on what these tariffs are, who ultimately bears the brunt of them, and, most importantly, what you can do to mitigate their impact on your bottom line.   What is a Tariff, Exactly?   Simply put, a tariff is a tax levied by a government on imported goods. Think of it as an extra fee added to the cost of products coming into the country. This tax makes imported goods more expensive, theoretically encouraging consumers and businesses to purchase domestically produced alternatives. While the intention might be to bolster domestic industries, the reality is often far more nuanced.   Who Really Pays the Tariff?   While the importer technically pays the tariff at the point of entry, the burden of this cost rarely stops there. It’s often passed down the supply chain, affecting small business owners and ultimately consumers. Businesses importing materials or products from affected countries face higher costs, which can translate to:   Increased Production Costs If your business relies on materials sourced from these countries, expect to pay more for them. Higher Prices for Consumers To maintain profitability, many businesses may be faced with a difficult decision to raise prices on their goods and services, potentially impacting sales volume. Reduced Profit Margins Some businesses may choose to absorb part of the tariff costs to remain competitive, shrinking their profit margins.   How These Tariffs Impact Small Businesses   Small businesses, often operating on tighter margins than larger corporations, are particularly vulnerable to these fluctuations in the import market. The increased costs associated with tariffs may increase the costs of goods that you purchase from suppliers.  Supply chains may be affected, which means that you may experience challenges or delays getting your imported materials.  The uncertainty surrounding ongoing trade negotiations further complicates long-term planning.  Counter-tariffs are likely - this means the countries affected may respond by issuing their own tariffs. In fact, we’ve already seen this with Canada and China.    Five Actionable Steps to Minimize Tariff Impact:   While navigating these challenges requires careful consideration, here are five proactive steps you can take to lessen the impact of tariffs on your small business:   1.  Evaluate and Diversify Your Supply Chain Now is the time to thoroughly examine your sourcing practices. Can you get your materials from somewhere else? Identify which products or materials are affected by the new tariffs. Ask your suppliers which products you order from the regularly will be impacted and ask if they are offering less expensive alternatives.  Explore alternative suppliers, both domestic and international, in countries not subject to these tariffs. While this may involve upfront costs in researching and vetting new suppliers, the long-term benefits of diversification can provide stability and reduce reliance on vulnerable supply chains.   2.  Renegotiate Existing Contracts Review your existing contracts with suppliers and customers. Determine if there are clauses that allow for price adjustments due to unforeseen events like tariffs. While renegotiation can be challenging, open communication with your partners is crucial. Consider sharing the burden of increased costs where possible to maintain mutually beneficial relationships. Be prepared to document everything.   3.  Evaluate Your Inventory It may take months for your existing inventory to sell out. Understand what you’ve got and when you’re going to need to order more materials; plan appropriately and take the time to get your finances in order, which leads us to . . .   4.  Cut Costs Where You Can Assess your entire operation. Is there somewhere else you can streamline and cut costs? Review your overhead and eliminate any non-critical costs.   5.  Adjust Pricing Strategically Don’t raise prices all at once. Step up slowly in tiers. Communicate with customers so they understand what’s happening and why. You were hit with a tariff- your customers shouldn’t be caught off guard.   Moving Forward   The implications of these tariffs are complex and ever-evolving. Maybe today’s tariffs go away tomorrow. But tariffs as a whole aren’t disappearing anytime soon. So prepare accordingly. Don’t be a victim. Let your competitors do that part for you.

Pennsylvania’s Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program offers financial relief to older adults and individuals with disabilities, providing rebates of up to $1,000. This program, funded by the Pennsylvania Lottery and gaming revenue, is designed to assist eligible homeowners and renters by alleviating some of their housing costs.     The deadline to apply for the 2024 Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program is June 30, 2025. However, Pennsylvania law allows the Department of Revenue to extend this deadline to December 31 if additional funds are available.    Here's what you need to know.    Who Qualifies for a Rebate?  Homeowners and renters who meet the following criteria may be eligible for a standard rebate:    Age Criteria   65 and older    Income Criteria   Widows and widowers 50 and older   People with disabilities 18 and older   ​​Annual household income of $46,520 or less     How Much Can You Receive?  Standard Rebates:   Eligible applicants can receive up to $1,000 in rebates based on their income level.    Supplemental Rebates:  Some applicants may qualify for additional relief ranging from $190 to $500. These supplemental rebates are automatically calculated for property owners who:  Have an income of $31,010 or less and property taxes exceeding 15% of their total income.  Reside in Philadelphia, Scranton, or Pittsburgh.    Income Standard Rebate Supplement Total Max Rebate $0 - $8,270 $1,000 $500 $1,500 $8,271 - $15,510 $770 $385 $1,155 $15,511 - $18,610 $460 $230 $690 $18,611 - $46,520 $380 $190 $570   How to Apply  Eligible individuals can apply for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program online through MyPath, Pennsylvania’s secure tax system. To begin your application, visit: https://www.mypath.pa.gov/_/ .    Get the Financial Assistance You Deserve  If you or someone you know qualifies for this program, do not miss out on this opportunity for financial relief. Ensure your application is submitted before the deadline and check your eligibility for supplemental rebates to maximize your benefits.    For more information or legal guidance on real estate and other financial matters,  contact the experienced attorneys at Fiffik Law Group.

Starting a business can be one of the most exhilarating and rewarding decisions of your life, but it can also be overwhelming - especially if you're bootstrapping your startup . Bootstrapping, or financing your venture with your own savings and revenue generated from the business, can be a powerful way to maintain control while growing sustainably. Navigating this path can be tricky, but with the right strategies, you can maximize your chances of success. Here are five essential tips to help you bootstrap your startup effectively.   1. Start Small and Validate Your Idea   Before you dive in headfirst, take the time to validate your business idea. Start small by offering a prototype or a minimum viable product (MVP). This approach allows you to gather valuable feedback from early customers without overextending yourself financially.   Why It Matters: By validating your idea, you can make informed decisions about your product and the market. This reduces wasteful spending and helps you refine your offering based on real needs and preferences. Consider surveys, interviews, or a landing page to gauge interest before making a significant financial commitment.   Actionable Tip: Market tests can be as simple as creating a social media ad campaign to see how people respond to your concept. Use platforms like Facebook or Instagram to direct traffic to your website or a survey. This can help you gauge interest and adjust your plans before, and even as, you formally launch.   2. Focus on Cash Flow   When bootstrapping, cash flow can be both your lifeline and your greatest challenge. Effective cash flow management is crucial to keeping your business afloat. Develop a business model that allows for quick cash generation to avoid exhausting your limited funds.  Monitor your income and expenses meticulously to ensure you’re living within your means and reinvesting wisely.   Why It Matters: Not every idea is viable for bootstrapping; ensure that your model incorporates revenue-generating activities from the onset.  Bootstrapped businesses often operate on thin margins, making cash flow management vital for survival. Having a clear understanding of your cash flow will help you make informed decisions about scaling your operations or investing in new opportunities.   Actionable Tip: Rather than aiming for a long-term payoff, look for products or services that bring in immediate income. This approach will validate your business idea while helping sustain growth without draining resources.    3. Leverage Networking and Community Resources   Building a strong network can be invaluable for a bootstrapping entrepreneur. Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals can provide support, mentorship, and potential partnerships that can help your business grow without significant investment.   Why It Matters: Networking allows you to tap into resources that can aid your business without asking for capital. Whether it's finding a co-founder with complementary skills, accessing free marketing channels through collaborations, or getting advice from those who have walked the path before you—community is a powerful asset.   Actionable Tip: Join local business organizations, attend industry meetups, and engage with online forums. Platforms like Meetup or LinkedIn can help you connect with other entrepreneurs in your area. Consider seeking out co-working spaces, where you can work alongside other start-up founders and share experiences and resources.   4.  Learn New Skills to Save Money   Bootstrapping often requires entrepreneurs to wear many hats . Without investors to answer to and aggressive KPIs to hit, bootstrapping offers much-needed practice time. Like falling a hundred times before you nail your first ollie, entrepreneurs master new areas by attempting and fine-tuning.   Why it matters: By learning essential skills like basic accounting, digital marketing and content creation, you can reduce reliance on costly external services.   Actionable tip: Many online resources offer free or low-cost tutorials that help build these skills.  You might also consider outsourcing tasks to a freelancer via the many apps like Upwork and Fiverr that make finding low-cost help easier.     5. Find Free Mentorship Opportunities   One way to become a more knowledgeable and adept entrepreneur is to have a trusted business mentor with who you can ask for guidance and feedback.  Working with someone who has experience in your particular line of business can help you gain valuable insights as you approach problems and challenges.   Why it Matters: As an entrepreneur, you will naturally feel emotionally connected to your business. This can serve to help you achieve your goals, but it could also work against you. Feelings can get in the way of recognizing weaknesses that you need to address and your ability to assess situations objectively. A mentor will bring an impartial viewpoint and third-party perspective focused on facts rather than emotions.   Actionable tip: There are several places you can find free mentors:  SCORE is a nonprofit associated with the U.S. Small Business Administration .  SBDCs (Small Business Development Centers), usually associated with a local college or university, provide assistance to entrepreneurs. Women’s Business Centers has over 100 business centers across the US supporting female entrepreneurs.  Join a local incubator.  These are great ways to connect with more experienced business owners. You’ll receive mentorship and help with your product.    Bootstrapping your startup is no small feat, but with careful planning, disciplined cash flow management, and a strong community, you can set yourself on the path to success. Remember that starting small and validating your ideas can save you time and money while focusing on your network can amplify your efforts and resources. As you embark on this entrepreneurial journey, stay adaptable and resilient, and you may find that the challenges you face only serve to strengthen and refine your vision. Good luck, and happy bootstrapping!

Sharing a joint bank account with a family member is a common way to manage finances, provide assistance, and ensure easy access to funds. Putting someone's name on your account has its drawbacks .  However, what happens if you suddenly find out that your name has been removed from an account without your knowledge?     Consider John’s Scenario:    Several years ago, John’s father requested that he be added to his checking account. They went to the bank, signed the necessary documents, and soon after, John’s name appeared on checks issued from the account. This arrangement remained in place for years, until recently, when John discovered that his name had been removed and replaced with his younger brother’s name.     Concerned that his brother may be using his father’s funds without consulting him or his other family members, they visited the bank to investigate. The bank provided only one piece of information: John’s name was no longer associated with the account.    Does Pennsylvania law require a joint account holder to be notified or provide consent before being removed from an account?    Under the Pennsylvania Law – specifically the Pennsylvania Multiple-Party Accounts Act – there is no explicit legal requirement that a joint account holder be notified or give consent before their name is removed.     Instead, the process for adding or removing individuals from an account depends on the bank’s internal policies and the account agreement signed by all parties. Most banks require either:    Written authorization from the person being removed.  A new account agreement signed by all parties to effect the change.    If you were removed from an account without your consent, your best course of action is to request copies of the account agreement and any documents related to your removal. This can help determine whether the bank followed its own procedures properly.    What to Do If You Suspect Financial Abuse    If you believe a family member is misusing funds in a parent’s account, consider taking these steps:    1. Review the Bank’s Policies Request copies of relevant agreements and policies regarding joint account modifications.  2. Discuss with Your Parent If possible, have an open conversation with your parent to understand their intentions and whether they authorized the change.  3. Monitor Financial Activity If your parent is willing, consider setting up account alerts or reviewing statements to track any unusual transactions. You should also document your observations and conversations with the potential victim and perpetrator. Be prepared to share as many specifics as possible.  4. Seek Legal Advice If you suspect financial exploitation , an attorney can help assess your options, including potential claims under Pennsylvania’s financial abuse laws.     While Pennsylvania law does not mandate notice or consent before removing a joint account holder, the bank’s policies may offer some protections. If financial misconduct is suspected, legal counsel can provide guidance on protecting your loved one’s assets. Contact the experienced attorneys at Fiffik Law Group today for a free initial consultation to discuss your situation.

In light of a February 18, 2025 decision by the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, BOI reporting requirements are back in effect. However, recognizing that businesses may need additional time to comply, FinCEN has extended the deadline by 30 days. The new deadline for most small businesses is March 21, 2025. Learn More A December 23, 2024 federal Court of Appeals decision states reporting companies are once again required to file beneficial ownership information with FinCEN. Learn More On December 3, 2024, a Texas Federal Court entered a preliminary injunction suspending enforcement of the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) nationwide. The January 1, 2025 reporting deadline is no longer in effect. Learn More Pursuant to the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) , most small businesses must file information disclosing information and identities of owners of those small businesses with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (“FinCEN”) so that the data can be accessed by law enforcement, the IRS, certain other agencies, and select financial services companies in a new federal government database called Beneficial Ownership Secure System (BOSS) .  The CTA is part of  the U.S. government’s efforts to make it harder for bad actors to hide or benefit from their ill-gotten gains through shell companies or other opaque ownership structures.  FinCEN estimates Year 1 compliance with the rule will impact at least 32.6 million businesses.  These mandated disclosure provisions come into effect on Jan. 1, 2024, and apply to both companies formed after Jan. 1 2024 and companies already existing prior to that date. What businesses are covered by the CTA reporting mandate? Mandated reporting applies to all manner of legal entities, including: corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs) , partnerships, limited partnerships (LPs), limited liability partnerships (LLPs), limited liability limited partnerships (LLLPs), and any other type of entity that is registrable with a Secretary of State’s office (or similar registrar). There are certain specific exemptions from the definition of reporting company under the CTA, which are covered in further detail below. Which business owners are required to comply? The rule describes a “beneficial owner” as any individual who meets  at least one  of two criteria: (1)   exercising substantial control  over the reporting company;  or   (2) owning or controlling at least 25% of the ownership interest  of the reporting company.  If you meet either of these criteria, you are a beneficial owner under the CTA and your identity must be disclosed in the company’s report. Substantial Control The CTA defines an individual who exercises “substantial control” over a reporting company as an individual that: Serves as a senior officer of the reporting company ( e.g. , President, CEO, CFO, COO, GC); Maintains authority over the appointment or removal of (i) any senior officer or (ii) a majority of the board of directors or similar body; Directs, determines, or has substantial influence over important decisions made by the reporting company; or Has any other form of substantial control over the reporting company, such as a board member or controlling the majority of voting power of the company. Ownership Interest The CTA defines “ownership interest” as: Any equity, stock, or similar instrument; Any capital or profit interest in an entity; Any instrument convertible, with or without consideration, into any share or instrument; Any put, call or other option; or Any other instrument, contract, arrangement, understanding, relationship, or mechanism used to establish ownership. An individual may directly or indirectly own or control an ownership interest of a reporting company through any contract, arrangement, understanding, relationship, or otherwise, including: Joint ownership with one or more other persons of an undivided interest in such ownership interest; Through another individual acting as a nominee, intermediary, custodian, or agent on behalf of such individual; With regard to a trust or similar arrangement that holds such ownership interest: as a trustee of the trust or other individual (if any) with the authority to dispose of trust assets; as a beneficiary who (a) is the sole permissible recipient of income and principal from the trust; or (b) has the right to demand a distribution of or withdraw substantially all of the assets from the trust; or as a grantor or settlor who has the right to revoke the trust or otherwise withdraw the assets of the trust; or When determining whether an individual owns or controls at least 25% of the ownership interests of a reporting company, the total ownership interests that an individual owns or controls, directly or indirectly, shall be calculated as a percentage of the total outstanding ownership interests of the reporting company. The rule also describes five types of individuals who the CTA exempts from the definition of “beneficial owner,” including (i) minor children (provided the parent or guardian reports the required information for that child); (ii) an individual acting as nominee, intermediary, custodian, or agent for another individual; (iii) certain employees of a reporting company (provided they are not senior officers); (iv) individuals whose only interest in a reporting company is a future interest through a right of inheritance; or (v) certain creditors of a reporting company. Are there any companies exempt from the reporting requirements? There are 23 specific exemptions from the definition of reporting company under the CTA.  The most common exemption applies to companies that have 20 or more full time employees with $5 million or more in gross annual sales in the year prior to the year in which the filing is due and that are physically located in the United States. There are other exemptions covering larger, generally more seasoned or highly regulated types of entities, including: public companies; large private companies; public accounting firms; regulated insurance companies; registered investment companies and advisors; as well as certain tax-exempt entities.  When must reports be filed? The time at which a required report is due depends on: (1) when the reporting company was created or registered; and (2) whether the report is an initial report, an updated report providing new information, or a report correcting erroneous information in a previous report. Initial report timing Domestic reporting companies created, or foreign reporting companies registered to do business in the U.S., before Jan. 1, 2024, have until Jan. 1, 2025 to file their initial report with FinCEN. Domestic reporting companies created, or foreign reporting companies registered to do business in the U.S. for the first time, on or after Jan. 1, 2024, are required to file their initial report with FinCEN within 90 calendar days of the date on which they are created or registered, respectively. What type of information must be disclosed? The reporting company must submit information to FinCEN about: (1) the reporting company, and (2) each beneficial owner and company applicant. This includes: the name, date of birth, and street address of each beneficial owner and company applicant; and an image of an approved identifying document (e.g., a non-expired passport or driver’s license) proving the veracity of that information, among other things. Who has access to this information? This is not public information. The Act only allows access to the beneficial ownership information in the FINCEN database by law enforcement and taxing agencies (it is not a public database and not just for curious spectators for commercial purposes). Are there penalties for failing to comply? The CTA provides that it is unlawful for any person to willfully provide, or attempt to provide, false or fraudulent beneficial ownership information to FinCEN, or to willfully fail to report complete or updated beneficial ownership information to FinCEN. Not complying, providing false or fraudulent reports, or willfully failing to comply may result in fines of $500 a day for as long as the report is inaccurate, and that is just the civil penalty. Failure to comply may also be subject to criminal penalties up to a $10,000 fine or two years in jail. The Corporate Transparency Act places a very new and significant burden on small businesses.  Rarely have they been required to report information about their owners.  Many small business owners place a high value on their personal privacy.  Some small businesses lose track of their owners.  Some owners will refuse to comply, putting the company in jeopardy.  It’s a minefield of new problems for small businesses. The experienced team of business attorneys at Fiffik Law Group are here to help you understand how the Corporate Transparency Act impact your business. We will help you comply with the Act and establish policies so that your business can remain in compliance.

For small business owners and their compliance requirements under the Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting requirements under the Corporate Transparency Act, the band Soul II Soul may have said it best: “Back to life, back to the present tense...”  The litigation see-saw over this law continues and it is now tilted toward compliance again.  Here are the details:   In light of a February 18, 2025 decision by the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, BOI reporting requirements are back in effect. However, recognizing that businesses may need additional time to comply, FinCEN has extended the deadline by 30 days from February 19, 2025. File your BOI with Fiffik Law Group Updated Deadlines For the vast majority of reporting companies, the new deadline to file an initial, updated, and/or corrected BOI report is now March 21, 2025.  FinCEN will provide an update before then regarding any further modifications to this deadline, recognizing that reporting companies may need additional time to comply once this update is provided. Reporting companies that were previously given a reporting deadline later than March 21, 2025, must file their initial BOI report by that later deadline.  For example, if a company’s reporting deadline is in April 2025 because it qualifies for certain disaster relief extensions, it should follow the April deadline, not the March deadline.   That’s the latest.  Stick with us and we’ll get you through this.  We can help you comply for a flat fee as low as $149.  Fill out our form to get your company in compliance with the reporting requirements.    Learn More: Federal Court Suspends Corporate Transparency Act Nationwide: What This Means for Small Businesses   Are You One of the 32 Million Small Businesses Impacted by the 2024 Corporate Transparency Act? Maintaining Privacy Under the Corporate Transparency Act Is a Sole Proprietorship a Reporting Company under the Corporate Transparency Act?   Real Estate Investors and the Corporate Transparency Act   Subscribe to Fiffik Law Group for the latest updates.