Legal-Ease: Tax savings for people over age 70 1/2

When deciding the amounts of deductions on taxes, taxpayers have two options to consider. First, you can itemize deductions, which is often done by farmers, small business owners and those who give a lot to charities. The other method for deductions is to simply deduct a flat amount each year. That’s referred to as taking […]

Legal-Ease: Technology challenging limits of contract law

New technology is complicating and challenging our legal system, especially when it comes to contract law. 

Typically, people can be wronged in one of two different ways. First, a person may be harmed when that person’s rights are violated. Second, a person may be harmed when someone else violates a contract. Technology’s advances are designed to automate actions and decisions that were historically done manually by human beings. This can complicate contract law now that technology is taking the place of humans. 

Legal-Ease: Train noise and road blockage

The United States Constitution gives the federal government complete authority over interstate commerce, which includes railroads. So while residents and businesses may get frustrated by the noise and inconvenience that trains can sometimes bring, bringing their complaints to local governments won’t affect change. 

In northwest Ohio, state and local governments have no power to regulate railroads since our region has mostly interstate railroads. 

Legal-Ease: Pope Francis and elevator malfunctions

Ohio has several laws in place to ensure that elevators are safe and operable. The laws focus mainly on the construction, registration and inspection of elevators. 

Ohio elevator laws were last significantly updated in 2012. The Ohio Department of Commerce administers and enforces elevator laws. 

Legal-Ease: What to consider when starting retirement

Retirement planning can be both exciting and daunting. When you consider the beginning of your retirement, there are a few things that you should keep in mind. 

First, determine your healthcare needs. Second, be sure to prepare a budget and a cash-flow plan. Finally, be sure to be prepared for the event of long-term care needs popping up.