Beware of Recorded Deed Notices
A client of Azrael Franz recently contacted attorney Paul Schwab about a letter she received after changing the title to her property. The official-looking letter pictured below instructed her to complete an order form and return it in a postage pre-paid envelope with $95 to obtain a certified copy of her deed. These letters that at first blush look like an invoice from the government have been mailed…
Read MoreDrunk Driver Sentenced 13 Years for Negligent Manslaughter
A Jessup man was sentenced to 13 years in prison for collision that killed one person and severely injured another last March. Brandon Hinkley, 40, has been sentenced for one count of negligent manslaughter and one count of life-threatening injuries while under the influence. Mr. Hinkley pleaded guilty to the charges on November 19, 2019. The three-vehicle collision happened on Friday, March 15, 2019, when Selvin Lopez and his passenger,…
Read MoreWhat is the SECURE Act and How Could it Affect Your Retirement?
The Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement Act of 2019, better known as the SECURE Act, which originally passed the House in July, was approved by the Senate on Dec.19, 2019, and signed into law on December 20, 2019. Effective January 1, 2020, this new law is aimed at increasing access to tax-advantaged accounts and preventing older Americans from effectively outliving their assets. Among other things, the SECURE…
Read MoreLawyers in the 21st Century: Professionalism on Listservs
This article was originally published in the December 2019 edition of the Baltimore County Bar Association Newsletter, “The Advocate.” Part of our responsibility as attorneys is to stay current on changes in the law. Owing to their convenience and accessibility, online platforms are increasingly popular and useful tools to the legal profession. Lawyers, however, must ensure that their postings comply with the rules of ethics and professional responsibility. A peer-to-peer…
Read MorePedestrian in Critical Condition after Hit-And-Run in Towson
A pedestrian is in critical condition after being hit by a pick-up truck in Towson on New Year’s Eve. Police say the accident happened just before 7:30 PM at the intersection of Dulaney Valley Road and Fairmont Avenue, near Towson Town Center. The victim was transported to the hospital. The truck fled the scene without stopping. Baltimore County Police Detective Robert Reason stated “right now (the) crash team in Baltimore…
Read MoreYes, you need a Will. Here’s why.
A Last Will and Testament (commonly referred to as a “Will”) is a legal document that allows you to make your wishes known after your death. By executing a Will, you are able to leave instructions for the distribution of your estate. The consequences of not having a Will can be quite serious. When someone dies without a Will, also known as “dying intestate,” their assets are distributed according to…
Read MoreTop Mistakes to Avoid After a Collision
Auto accidents can shake you up and getting injured can turn your life upside down. During these unanticipated, stressful times, it is important to understand that avoiding a few mistakes after an accident is crucial to ensuring that your rights are protected and the compensation you deserve is recoverable. Azrael Franz has represented thousands of clients injured in collisions. Although every accident and injury is different, there are a few mistakes…
Read More16th Annual Maryland Remembers Memorial
Maryland Remembers is an annual memorial that honors the lives of people killed on Maryland roads at the hands of impaired drivers. All victim families and friends who have lost a loved one to an impaired driving related crash, as well as representatives from partner agencies and advocates are invited to attend the 16th Annual Maryland Remembers Memorial service. The 16th Annual Memorial service will be held at the Miller…
Read MoreGiving Tuesday: A Global Generosity Movement
Giving Tuesday is an annual international day of charitable giving at the beginning of the holiday season. Originating in 2012, Giving Tuesday has been celebrated on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving and has grown into a global movement that inspires hundreds of millions of people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity. Since 2012, the total amount raised from the Giving Tuesday movement is over $1 billion in the United States!…
Read MoreFamily sues city, officers (Baltimore Sun Article)
Former members of gun task force named in suit over fatal crash By: Nicholas Bogel-Burroughs, The Baltimore Sun Children of an 86-year-old man who was killed by a driver fleeing a corrupt police officer are seeking $25 million in damages from the Baltimore Police Department, the city, the state and former members of the department’s Gun Trace Task Force. Six of Elbert Davis’ adult children said in a lawsuit filed…
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