Team member spotlight: Sam Dolce-Powers, Esq.
Over the next few weeks, we will be featuring the members of our dynamic team who, in their own way, help injured clients and their families plan for a secure financial future. Today the spotlight is on Sam Dolce-Powers, Esq., associate at Milestone. Sam blends the skills of an attorney and a planner to provide… Read more
Are structured settlement annuities irrelevant?
Like a house that’s worth less than the mortgage you owe on it, structured settlement annuities are currently under water. But have structured settlement annuities become irrelevant? You may think this is an odd question coming from me, as our firm has been at the forefront of advocacy for plaintiffs since our inception in 1999,… Read more
When you hear “settlement planning,” do you automatically think “structures”?
The majority of work we do at Milestone does not involve traditional structures. This industry has evolved over the past decade, and so have we. Trial lawyers, consider engaging us in a settlement planning conversation about one of your clients. We guarantee you’ll be surprised. Special needs trusts A special needs trust is established to prevent people from losing… Read more
Value of AAJ membership after 10 years
As a trial attorney fresh from the Bar, being part of a nationwide organization like the American Association for Justice can seem overwhelming. How can a new lawyer stand out among tens of thousands of others who practice in the same field? In truth, AAJ is an unbeatable tool for any trial lawyer’s marketing toolbox.… Read more
How to set up a qualified settlement fund
A qualified settlement fund (QSF) is a trust or other account that holds proceeds from a lawsuit settlement in escrow. The types of litigation one can use this for include mass tort, personal injury, or breach of contract, for example. Qualified settlement funds help the settlement administrator stay organized and give the attorney more time… Read more
Decisions you’ll make when establishing a special needs trust
People with special needs often rely on needs-based government programs to pay for daily necessities. Complying with the rules of Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, and other programs is critical to maintain eligibility. Part of that compliance means consistently showing that a beneficiary’s income and assets are below a specified limit. If you or your… Read more
Sample agreement language for attorney fee deferral
Does your current attorney/client fee agreement contain language that will enable you to receive your attorney fee in the form of a periodic payment obligation? If not, request our sample fee agreement language and make the quick and easy change today! Request our Sample Language * indicates required Email Address * First Name Last Name Read more
Why my work matters.
There is a certain depiction in society separating the good guys from the bad guys. When you’re a kid, it’s as black and white as superheroes you watch on cartoons. But as you grow up, you begin to learn the depth of the phrases. We are all living in a world where we have the… Read more
Crafting retainer agreements for personal injury attorney fee deferrals
Plaintiffs’ personal injury attorneys: when was the last time you looked at your firm’s retainer agreement? Have you ever edited with an eye towards attorney fee deferrals? If so, you may already know the language your retainer agreement should contain. However, if you have not yet taken this into consideration, make sure you do so… Read more
From tragedy to tomorrow
By Jessica McDowell I am daily inspired by the work we do at Milestone Consulting and proud to be a part of this unique company. Located in the heart of Buffalo, New York, we are striving every day to better our team and remain a beacon in our community. The work that we do at… Read more