Leandra’s Law: NY Cracks Down on Drunk Drivers With Kids in Car
Introduction On Wednesday, November 18th, 2009, Governor David Paterson signed the Child Passenger Protection Act, also known as  “Leandra’s Law,” into effect. “Leandra’s Law” is named for 11-Year old Leandra Rosado, killed in a fatal crash  along the Henry Hudson Parkway in New York City.  The deadly accident involved a drunk driver and several child passengers, including Leandra.  Prior to the incident leading to “Leandra’s Law”, there were several other deadly incidents involving drunk drivers, with children in tow. Leandra’s Law- Felony Leandra’s Law increases the penalty for those who dr

Up Close and Personal With Debrina Washington: My First Radio Interview
Introduction A radio producer from Hype Media Global’s Community Central TV contacted me to request a radio interview about basic estate planning.  My first thought was WOW.  Not only was I gratified that I was “the chosen one,” but I also appreciated the opportunity to explain the importance of basic estate planning, along with reasons why many people choose not to avoid estate planning.  The radio program is entitled “Up Close and Personal with Debrina Washington.” Take a listen and let me know what you think.

YouTube Scandal–Grounds for Divorce
Divorce Decree A New York Appeals Court upheld a ruling in favor of Philip Smith, President of the Shubert Organization, awarding him a divorce from his wife on the basis of cruel and inhuman treatment.  The court, specifically, referred to Tricia Smith’s very public YouTube video regarding her separation, as a determining factor for the divorce.  Public Humiliation– Cruel and Inhuman Treatment The Court of Appeals specifically referenced Tricia

No Seriously, 20 Year Olds Can Die Too!
Last week, my blog took a more humorous tone.   I’m switching gears and tone this week, partially because I want to discuss a serious matter and partially because I had a tough week. Today, I won’t site any case law or relevant statutes.  All I have to offer today is life experience. You see, this week alone, 3 people that I either knew personally or knew of passed away, unexpectedly.  Causes range from a sudden heart attack to a seizure.  The surprising thing is all the recent deceased were under 40. When you hear of young people who suddenly die, it begs the question “What happened”? Hey, I’m sure if the dead could speak, the deceased mi

Single? Of Course You Don’t Need an Estate Plan
Introduction Time and time again, I’ve heard single people say “I don’t have a large family or much property,  I don’t need an estate plan.”  I have to be honest, prior to the birth of my son, I thought the exact same way.  Admittedly, it took me a year after my son’s birth to complete my estate plan.  Upon completion, I packaged it up nicely and told my close relatives of its contents and explained where exactly to locate my most important documents.  Then, I breathed a sigh of relief.  Why in the world did it take me so long? Top Reasons Not to Have an Estate Plan Well, for all of you naysayers, relax. You wont need an