What’s the Difference Between an LLC, a Corporation, and a Sole Proprietorship?

Executive Summary -Choosing the right business structure is a critical first step, as it impacts liability protection, taxation, management flexibility, and future growth opportunities. -A sole proprietorship is the simplest and easiest structure to form, but it does not provide liability protection, meaning the owner’s personal assets may be at risk. -An LLC offers […]
The Real Risk with Peptides

A lot of information you find online will discuss the marketing risks of peptides and “research use only” labeling. But, many of the worst problems do not show up in marketing—they show up in sourcing. The Risk No One’s Talking About: Sourcing For a product to be used in humans, the active ingredient (API) must be pharmaceutical‑grade and […]
How Much Does Probate Cost? A Breakdown of Court Fees, Attorney Fees, and Administrative Expenses

Executive Summary Probate costs vary widely depending on the estate’s size, complexity, and the state where the probate occurs. Typical expenses include court filing fees, attorney fees, executor compensation, appraisal costs, and miscellaneous administrative expenses. In California—where many estates require formal probate—statutory attorney and executor fees are calculated as a percentage of the estate’s gross […]
What Are The Most Effective Strategies For Resolving Business Disputes?

Executive Summary Business disputes commonly arise from contracts, partnerships, employment matters, and competitive conflicts. Effective dispute resolution prioritizes minimizing disruption, managing costs, and preserving business relationships when possible. Resolution options include negotiation, mediation, arbitration, and litigation—each with different benefits and risks. Selecting the right strategy early can significantly improve efficiency and outcomes. Business disputes […]
David Rawi Named Partner at Lagerlof, LLP

David Rawi Named Partner at Lagerlof, LLP PASADENA, CA – Lagerlof, LLP is pleased to announce that David A. Rawi has been named Partner. David serves as a business and litigation attorney with a focus on representing healthcare providers and healthcare-related businesses navigating complex regulatory and operational environments. His practice includes reimbursement disputes, ownership and partnership matters, compliance issues, service and […]
What Are an Executor’s Responsibilities During Probate?

What Are an Executor’s Responsibilities During Probate? Executive Summary An executor is the individual appointed to manage and settle a deceased person’s estate during the probate process. Executors have legal and fiduciary duties, including safeguarding assets, paying debts, and distributing property to beneficiaries. The role involves court filings, strict deadlines, and ongoing communication with creditors […]
What Happens If Someone Dies Without a Will in California?

What Happens If Someone Dies Without a Will in California? Executive Summary When someone dies without a valid will, their estate is distributed according to California’s intestate succession laws. The probate court determines who inherits assets based on family relationships, not personal wishes. The outcome often surprises families—especially in blended families, unmarried partnerships, or second marriages. Creating […]
Dena L. Klotz Named Partner at Lagerlof, LLP

PASADENA, CA – Lagerlof, LLP is pleased to announce that Dena L. Klotz has been named Partner. Dena is a member of the firm’s Private Client Group and advises individuals, families, family offices, and closely held business owners on wealth planning, trust and estate matters, real estate, and long-term asset protection strategies. Her practice includes both foundational and sophisticated […]
What Are the Most Common Estate Planning Mistakes and How Can You Avoid Them?

What Are the Most Common Estate Planning Mistakes and How Can You Avoid Them? Executive Summary Many families unintentionally create future complications by overlooking essential estate planning steps, such as failing to update documents or coordinate beneficiary designations. Common mistakes include not having a plan, relying solely on a will, failing to fund a trust, and ignoring tax implications. […]
What Are the Steps in the Probate Process?

What Are the Steps in the Probate Process? Executive Summary Probate is a court-supervised process required when someone passes away with assets titled in their name alone. The process includes filing a petition, publication in a newspaper, notifying interested parties and creditors, valuing assets, paying debts, and ultimately distributing property to beneficiaries. Each step must follow strict legal procedures and timelines, […]
California Courts To Adopt Generative AI Policies

In 2024, the California Judicial Council created an AI Task Force in order to safeguard the integrity of the legal process as courts increasingly use generative AI. The goal is to strike a balance between the utilization of this powerful new technology and ensuring that courts remain trustworthy and objective sources of information.
5 Reasons Why a Regular Meeting with Your Tax Attorney is Critical

Five Reasons Why a Regular Meeting with Your Tax Attorney is Critical Business owners juggle many responsibilities. Taxes are one of the most crucial areas, and also one of the most overlooked areas, for business owners. Failing to meet with a tax attorney each year can not only result in lost income, it can also […]
Lagerlof LLP Partner, Vanessa Terzian, Named Los Angeles Business Journal’s Women’s Leadership Symposium Nominee

Lagerlof LLP Partner, Vanessa Terzian, Named Los Angeles Business Journal’s Women’s Leadership Symposium Nominee PASADENA, CA – Lagerlof, LLP’s, Vanessa Terzian, was honored as a nominee at the Los Angeles Business Journal’s Women’s Leadership Symposium & Awards event held on Wednesday June 28 at the Intercontinental Los Angeles Downtown. Vanessa was nominated as an Executive […]
Top 3 Reasons Business Owners Need an Attorney When Selling Their Business

Top 3 Reasons Business Owners Need an Attorney When Selling Their Business Selling a business can be a complex process that involves legal, financial, and emotional considerations. As a business owner, it’s essential to consult with a transactional attorney before negotiating the sale of your business. Here are the top three reasons why: 1. Legal […]
Remote Meetings Under the Brown Act

REMOTE MEETINGS UNDER THE BROWN ACT With the special relaxed remote meeting provisions under AB 361 coming to an end on February 28, 2023, many agencies are trying to figure how to pivot back to in-person meetings and accommodate remote participation of Board members. REMOTE PARTICIPATION MUST COMPLY WITH THE BROWN ACT With […]
Litigants in CA Have Powerful New Remedy

Litigants in CA Have Powerful New Remedy LITIGANTS IN CALIFORNIA HAVE A POWERFUL REMEDY IN CASES INVOLVING THEFT In Siry Investments vs. Saeed Farkhondehpour, 13 Cal. 5th 333 (2022), the California Supreme Court recently issued a decision that expands the remedies available to civil litigants who are victims of financial theft. California Penal Code […]