Possession Is Nine-Tenths of the Law: Replevin? 

In a perfect world, civil disputes would be resolved instantly. In the real world, a lawsuit can take months or years to reach a final verdict. Meanwhile, if the defendant has claimed possession of business data or equipment, a vehicle,...

Article

Understanding Probate and Probate Bonds

When we die, our financial affairs (aka “estate”) must be settled. To ensure that is done properly, fairly, and in accordance with the law, the public process of probate exists. Simply put, probate is the court-supervised process for bringing closure...

Article

Racing The Clock: Appeal Bonds to Stay Judgment 

When a civil trial concludes with an order for the losing party (the judgment debtor) to pay a significant sum to the winner (the judgment creditor), the clock begins to tick on both the appeal and the collection process. It...

Article

How Did You Make That Decision: Prudence and ERISA

When you sponsor a retirement plan, like a 401k, you are automatically held to fiduciary standards of law–which are exceptionally high. Given that employees are essentially placing their savings into your care, the Employee Retirement and Income Security Act (ERISA)...

Article

Wills: The Role of Executor and Executor Bonds Explained

In most families, someone will have to take on the role of executor, at least once in a generation. Why? When a will is written, the testator (aka person creating the will), must name a responsible adult to execute it....

Article

Property Disputes: Using Replevin and Replevin Bonds for Asset Recovery

When property is wrongfully detained or withheld during a dispute, the standard pace of civil litigation can be a significant liability. Waiting for a final judgment is rarely a viable option—especially when the contested assets are critical to day-to-day business...

Article

Is the Will Invalid? How Caveat Proceedings and Probate Bonds Protect the Estate

When a loved one passes away, the expectation is that their final wishes will be honored without complication. However, what happens when a family member discovers a version of a will that seems "off"? Or what if someone new suddenly...

Article

Trial Vs. Appeal?

During a trial, attorneys present evidence and argue cases before a judge and jury. If there are grounds to challenge a trial court decision, the case goes to an appeals court, where an argument is made by an appellate attorney,...

Article

Administrator Responsibilities and Bonds

When someone dies without a will, the local probate court typically appoints an administrator to bring the affairs of the deceased to closure. Once debts are paid, the state laws of intestacy dictate the distribution of assets, Often courts require...

Article

Rainy Days Continue For Prince’s Estate

When music legend Prince died unexpectedly in 2016, it took six years for relations and business associates to come to agreement over his assets and affairs. The plans, announced in 2022, would have allowed Prince’s legacy to live on, via...

Article