The Economy and the Law- the turmoil felt by everyone in view of the contained depression in which we exist is significant.  People are more careful with their and seek ways to protect it.  Significantly, during these times, it is best to review not only one's economic portfolio, but also one's legal protections.  Are you protected contractually in significant financial transactions such as house renovations or large purchases?  A contactor's handshake or written estimate is little protection for the consumer.  One needs enforceable remedies in case of failure to perform or live up to standards. 

Do you have an estate plan?  Have you updated your Last Will and Testament, or provided for a Power of Attorney, Living Will, and Health Proxy?  Are you anticipating life changes, such as separation or divorce, and want to plan for them now and not at the last minute?  All of these are reasons for investing in a consultation with an attorney to address these and similar matters.  The small investment can yield much larger advantages.  Review your situation and start to plan with our help.

$687,000 GIFT TO DUTCHESS COUNTY S.P.C.A. - Mr. Caviglia, the named Executor for the Estate of Edith Har-Esh, MD, recently awarded $687,000 to the Dutchess County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.  This was a discretionary gift allowing Mr. Caviglia to specifically choose any charitable organization to receive these funds.  The money will be used towards the construction of a new addition to the present facility to house dogs and cats.

Mr. Caviglia also awarded $1,500,000 from the estate to the New York Medical College in Westchester, New York for the creation of a professorship for Geriatric Psychiatry and for assisting in the care and maintenance of geriatric schizophrenic women.  This was also a descretionary gift by Mr. Caviglia.

The late Edith Har-Esh, MD expressed her confidence and reliance upon the character, expertise, and judgment of Mr. Caviglia in not only naming him as Executor to the estate, and allowing him to construct her estate plan, but also in allowing him full discretion in awarding the proceeds of the estate to those charities deemed worthwhile and deserving.

MURDER 1ST DEGREE CASE- Mr. Caviglia recently defended William Muller in Columbia County, New York in a case in which the defendant was accused of causing the death of two people.  Mr. Caviglia is qualified to defend persons accused in capital cases and has represented four death penalty defendants in New York, and has handled major felony trials in New York for almost 30 years.

While this particular case was not a death penalty case, given the state of the law at this time, it is a reminder that at any time the State of New York may again start executing defendants.