Practice Areas
Real Estate
Our firm has been a leader in the development, zoning, sale and rental of homes and commercial real estate in Westport and Fairfield County since the 1930’s. We come to this work with in-depth knowledge of the opportunities and risks. We will work to protect your interests before and during the purchase or sale of your home or business and in connection with the use of the property you own. Our firm also possesses extensive experience when a change in the use of land is desired.
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Estate Planning and Taxation
A carefully crafted plan for the long term use of the wealth you accumulate in your lifetime can protect your children, spouse, relatives and others on whom you want to bestow your generosity. We possess nationally recognized estate and tax planning skills to help you shape a will, trust or create private tax-exempt or even public charities.
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Will and Trust Administration
Our firm brings a wealth of experience to carrying out the wishes of those who leave instructions for the distribution of their wealth. We also represent those who need to defend a will or trust or find it necessary to challenge its provisions. We appear often in the Westport Probate Court and the probate courts of surrounding communities.
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Business Planning
Your business may take any one of a number of different forms, depending on its size, how it is financed, the extent of protection you seek and the way it will be taxed. We have formed thousands of corporations, limited liability companies and partnerships for our clients. Our attorneys will present you with alternatives and tailor your business structure to your personal and commercial circumstances.
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Zoning and Administrative Agencies
For many years we have handled zoning applications for clients and those in zoning disputes. We understand the problems and their solution.
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Copyright
- Registration
- Licensing
- Infringement Protection
Whatever you write, draw, paint or sculpt is entitled to copyright. But, unless it is registered you cannot take full advantage of the range of protections the law provides. We can help you plan those protections and register your valuable work. We have extensive experience with the negotiation of income producing licenses. Our firm also knows how to keep watch for infringement and prevent others from using your valuable property without your permission.
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Trademark
- Registration
- Licensing
- Infringement Protection
Your trade or service mark is how customers know you. It can be a valuable business asset. Our firm knows how put protections in place by registering your mark and maintaining those protections so long as the marks remain in use. We can help you protect your marks from misuse by competitors or the unwitting and, convert trade and service marks into new sources of income.
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Media and First Amendment
We are experienced with the multiple needs of media organizations, electronic and print, for counseling to avoid libel, slander, invasions of privacy and while enabling them to get access to the news and information they need to inform and entertain the public. We know and understand how the First Amendment can open doors and prevent government, at all levels, from silencing or inhibiting free expression whether you are an individual or in business.
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Tax-Exempt Organizations
Our firm is a leader in the formation and administration of non-profit, tax-exempt organizations. We have helped to organize, guide and administer some of the most important private and public charities in this Region. We can help you select the method of charitable giving that best meets your goals while avoiding a growing list of legal requirements or unanticipated tax burdens.
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Food Industry
Whether you are a manufacturer, distributor, wholesaler or retailer, the food industry comes with its own unique set of opportunities and challenges. Our years of experience with the industry and its problems give us a special perspective. We know how to help you protect what is special and valuable about your business. We understand the legal framework in which you operate.
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