Law Guide

Civil Demand Letters, Retail Theft and the Law

Michael M Wechsler, Esq. — Tue, 17 Jun 2014 17:06:35 +0000

People caught shoplifting or committing retail theft will often receive civil demand letters for payment. The amounts demanded are usually much higher than the value of the item. Should you pay the demand? If so, should you pay in full or in part? Can you also face criminal prosecution?

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Fraud and Misrepresentation

Michael M Wechsler, Esq. — Mon, 26 May 2014 17:56:04 +0000

Fraud is the use of deception or a false statement for an unfair and unlawful gain. Some misrepresentations - but not all - are considered fraudulent conduct. Knowing the law may help you recover your valuable property and punish the perpetrator. Being well educated about how to detect fraud may help you avoid scams, scandals, phishing attempts, identity theft and other similar harm.

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Statutory Rape Law

Michael M Wechsler, Esq. — Thu, 22 May 2014 19:12:21 +0000

The crime of statutory rape is not one which requires the use of force. It occurs when a minor who is below the legal "age of consent" has sexual relations. Not being aware of the victim's true age is typically not a defense to a statutory rape crime. However, some states have "Romeo and Juliet" laws which provide some defenses and leniency in cases where the participants were both young persons and who may be in close in age.

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New Tax Rules and Options for New York State Taxpayers

Michael M Wechsler, Esq. — Sun, 06 Apr 2014 16:36:56 +0000

Every year there are new and modified tax rules and requirements. This year New York State taxpayers can expect to find several notable items listed in the tax form instructions. This includes the option to file state tax returns online, how to handle the filing of joint and separate returns for same sex marriage partners, a new adjusted gross income (AGI) calculation along with several other noteworthy items for review.

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Medical Expense Deductions: What Qualifies and How Much

Michael M Wechsler, Esq. — Tue, 01 Apr 2014 13:22:26 +0000

What qualifies for a medical expense deduction on your tax return? How much of your health care costs can you deduct? The Affordable Care Act has brought about changes in the tax rules regarding medical expenses for taxpayers who itemize their deductions.

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Dealing With a Tax Refund Check Sent in Error

Michael M Wechsler, Esq. — Tue, 18 Mar 2014 11:31:37 +0000

Even the IRS can make mistakes and send a tax refund in error. Can the lucky taxpayer cash the check? What if the IRS discovers its mistake and demands payment? (You can probably guess the answer to that question!) Will penalties and interest be incurred if the money is spent?

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Biking While Intoxicated: Bicycles and DUI / DWI Law

Michael M Wechsler, Esq. — Mon, 17 Mar 2014 13:20:28 +0000

DUI and DWI offenses are generally associated with driving a car, motorcycle, truck or other motor vehicle. But in some states, even riding a bicycle while drunk could result in a DUI / DWI charge and similar treatment in court. Find out more about which states have biking while intoxicated laws and those that make exceptions for non-motorized vehicles.

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Tax Benefits for Parents: Credits, Exemptions, Deductions

Michael M Wechsler, Esq. — Sun, 16 Mar 2014 10:21:55 +0000

If you are the parent of a child, you may be entitled to receive a tax credit, exemption or deduction from the IRS. Learn about over a half dozen tax benefits for parents and what is required for a qualifying child.

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How to Avoid a Late Filing and Late Payment Penalty

Michael M Wechsler, Esq. — Thu, 13 Mar 2014 10:14:59 +0000

Every taxpayer should know about these three tax topics: (1) What you should do if you can't file your tax return on time by April 15; (2) Understand the penalties for late filing and late payments and how to avoid or minimize any impact; and (3) How to deal with being unable to make your tax payment to the IRS as a result of a personal financial problem and hardship.

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How to Get a Tax Deduction for Charitable Contributions

Michael M Wechsler, Esq. — Wed, 05 Mar 2014 21:10:07 +0000

Charitable contributions can qualify for deductions on your tax return, reducing the amount of money you need to pay to the IRS. Learn about which acts of charity qualify, what qualified organizations can accept tax deductible contributions, how to value donated property, and record keeping and filing requirements.

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