Due to COVID-19, most court functions in the state have been suspended. In addition, our office is working remotely. For assistance, please email esr@mmzlaw.com with your contact information and the legal matter you need help with and someone will be in touch. If you are seeking help regarding a Will, Financial, or Health Care Power of Attorney, every effort will be made to respond as quickly as possible.

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IRS Form 990: The Nonprofit Return That Tells Your Story

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Running a nonprofit often feels like balancing mission work with a steady stream of rules and deadlines. Among those obligations, IRS Form 990 stands out. It is not just a tax document. It is a public snapshot of your organization’s purpose, leadership, finances, and impact. For many nonprofits, this single filing influences how donors, grantmakers, … Read more

Which is the Right Business Entity for My Company, LLC or Corporation?

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Why the Business Entity Choice Matters More Than You Think Choosing the right business entity is one of the earliest and most consequential legal decisions a founder will make. While the initial focus often rests on product development, market entry, and operations, the entity you form establishes the legal and financial framework that will govern … Read more

A Practical Guide to the Pennsylvania Uniform Trust Act and Updates

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Trusts are powerful tools for protecting and transferring wealth. The Pennsylvania Uniform Trust Act serves as the foundation of trust law in the Commonwealth. It establishes the rules for creating and administering trusts, describes the rights of beneficiaries, and explains the responsibilities of trustees. This guide explains the key aspects of the law that trustees … Read more

Why Hire a Real Estate Lawyer When Buying or Selling Property?

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Buying or selling property is often one of the largest financial transactions a person will make in a lifetime. The process can be exciting, but it can also be stressful, particularly when faced with contracts that contain unfamiliar legal terms. This difficult part of the process is where a real estate lawyer becomes essential. If … Read more

When to Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer: Why Acting Quickly Matters

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Accidents happen in an instant, but their consequences can linger for months or even years. Medical bills, lost income, and the stress of recovery pile up fast—and in these moments, one question often arises: when should you hire a personal injury lawyer? The answer is simple: as soon as possible. The sooner you call, the more … Read more

PA Estate Planning: The 1/3 Spousal Election, Prenuptial Agreements, and Protecting Blended Families

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Estate planning in Pennsylvania involves a nuanced understanding of inheritance laws, spousal rights, and strategies for protecting family members from unintended outcomes. These considerations become especially important in second marriages or blended family dynamics. When a spouse passes away, Pennsylvania law grants the surviving spouse a statutory right to claim a portion of the estate, … Read more

Uniform Directed Trust Act and What It Means for Pennsylvania Residents

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The world of trust law has always been rooted in tradition. However, modern financial and estate planning complexities have required legislators to revisit how trusts operate, especially in states like Pennsylvania. As of October 2024, two significant updates to the Pennsylvania Uniform Trust Act have reshaped how trusts are managed and taxed. These changes provide … Read more

Understanding Adoption and the Role of a Lawyer

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Adoption provides a life-changing opportunity for both adoptive parents and birth families. Whether adopting a baby or an older child, the process involves multiple legal and emotional steps that require careful navigation. Each adoption journey is unique, with different types of adoption available, including foster care adoption, private infant adoption, familial adoption, and open adoption … Read more

Commercial vs. Residential Real Estate Law: Understanding the Key Differences

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Real estate transactions, whether for commercial or residential properties, involve legal considerations that property owners must understand. The laws governing commercial and residential real estate differ significantly, affecting everything from leases to property usage. Understanding these differences is crucial for making informed decisions when dealing with single-family homes or office buildings. The Fundamentals of Real … Read more