Clarke and Associates

It seems that despite my client filing and winning a Whistleblower complaint against the City of Philadelphia regarding the care of horses within the Mounted Unit of the City of Philadelphia Police Department, the care of the horses entrusted to the Mounted Unit is still very much an issue. Interesting article about this.

In a dispute with an employer, proof of the allegations often comes down to documentation. Any litigation or administrative review can take years. Memories fade and without documentation it is a classic he said-she said. That is why it is so important that you keep careful notes if you think that you are being mistreated. Keep copies of emails, disciplinary material, and other pertinent internal documents. Remember, that if you are fired, your access to internal email will most likely be immediately lost. Proper documentation can be the difference between a successful and unsuccessful claim against a former employer. Contact us with questions about this or if you are concerned about a workplace situation. Free consultation always available.

Many of us are faced with the situation of caring for an elderly family member. In fact, I have had clients that have moved into their parent’s home to provide that care. This sometimes results in reducing hours at work in order to be available to provide such care or facing the consequence of bringing in outside help that may not be welcome by the elderly individual. One planning device that is available in such a situation is to enter into a family care agreement that allows the person being cared for to pay for the caretaking services to a family member. Contact us if you are facing or involved in this situation. Free consultation always available.

If you work in Pennsylvania you are an at will employee unless you are one of the rare individuals with an employment contract. This means that if you are terminated you have no recourse against that employer, with few exceptions. One exception that is being utilized more frequently is the Pennsylvania Whistleblower Law which protects employees form adverse employment action for making a good faith complaint of wrongdoing or waste against a covered employer. Contact us if you have questions or think you may fall under this exception. Free consultation always available.

Tip for Estate Executors and Administrators.In Pennsylvania, Inheritance Taxes are due within nine months of the date of death of the individual. Essentially, there are three rates: 4.5% for lineal descendants (parents, children, grandchildren), 12% for siblings and 15% for everyone else. Transfers to a spouse are not taxable. There is an early pay discount. If the Executor or Administrator pays estimated taxes due within 90 days, the Estate will receive a 5% discount when the tax return is completed. Contact my office if you are or become an Executor or Administrator and have any questions. Free Consultation always provided!