Attorney Ferris currently leads the Conciliation Program at Berkshire Probate & Family Court, the purpose of which is to assist parties and their attorneys to resolve issues on their own. He participates in the Lawyer of the Day Programs for the Berkshire Probate & Family Court and Western Division of the Housing Court, the purpose of which is to assist pro se litigants with the presentation of their claims. Recently, his services have been expanded to include mediation of divorces and family law matters, helping many people reach an agreement and avoid the cost of litigation.
Child Support
When parents go through a divorce, they must consider the impact on their children, both emotionally and financially. With many years of experience, at HASHIM & SPINOLA we assist parents in understanding child support guidelines, negotiating child support through mediation, litigating child support issues, enforcing child support orders, and modifying child support orders. We understand that in some cases, litigation is necessary to ensure that the child receives fair financial support from both parents. We prepare meticulously for litigation to achieve the most equitable support arrangement for a child.
Child Custody and Visitation
At HASHIM & SPINOLA, we offer comprehensive legal services pertaining to divorce and domestic relations, covering all aspects of family law. Whether you require assistance with divorce or separation, need guidance on custody and parenting plans, visitation rights, or wish to safeguard the interests of a loved one, we are committed to providing you with staunch and expert representation.
Paternity
Premarital Agreement
Determining whether you require the services of a family law attorney is dependent on several case-specific factors. There is no universal solution. While getting married, most couples do not require legal assistance, but a lawyer may be necessary if a prenuptial agreement is involved. In situations such as divorce, child support, and particularly child custody matters, individuals may benefit from hiring an attorney. As emotions can often escalate during divorce proceedings, having an attorney to mediate and resolve contentious issues can be extremely valuable.
Guardianship
Dorothy Mara has been working with clients at Hashim and Spinola for more than 20 years. She concentrates in the areas of estate planning, asset protection planning and elder law, as well as probate court matters for estates, guardianships and conservatorships.
Spousal Support
In divorce proceedings, alimony is often a contentious issue that requires careful consideration by both lawyers and courts. While the goal is to split marital assets in a fair and equitable manner, it's important to note that "equitable" does not always mean "equal." At HASHIM & SPINOLA, our legal professionals are well-versed in the laws surrounding spousal support and have a deep understanding of the court system responsible for making decisions in this area.
Cynthia A. Spinola is a founding partner of Hashim and Spinola where, for more than 30 years, she has focused her practice on representing seriously injured persons. Attorney Spinola handles complex litigation cases involving catastrophic and life-changing injuries arising from automobile accidents; construction site accidents; fall down accidents; medical negligence; and workplace injuries. These incidents have resulted in wrongful death; catastrophic and disfiguring injuries; permanent back and neck injuries; permanent foot, ankle, hand, shoulder and arm injuries and amputations; traumatic brain injuries; and strokes.
Restraining Order
A Restraining Order is a legal order that prohibits a person from carrying out a specific action. In family law cases, there are two common types of restraining orders: one that pertains to asset distribution in a divorce case and another that pertains to preventing abuse. In a divorce case, once a Complaint for Divorce is filed and served, both parties are prohibited from engaging in activities such as selling, transferring, concealing, encumbering, removing, or disposing of personal or shared marital assets. This restriction is aimed at safeguarding the marital estates of divorce litigants. Compliance with this rule should be monitored throughout the divorce proceedings.
At HASHIM & SPINOLA, our corporate formation attorneys offer free consultations to help you tackle any issue related to business law. For those looking to start a business, we provide comprehensive legal advice on the best entity selection. Our experienced attorneys are well versed in taxation, liability, and estate planning, and in ensuring that all clients have the best structure in place for success. We are also highly experienced in the complexities of tax law, commercial real estate law, and estate planning, providing sound advice on the advantages and disadvantages of different entities.
Business Formation
Here at HASHIM & SPINOLA, our business and corporate lawyers provide invaluable legal advice to individuals, partnerships, LLCs, companies and organizations in and around the Berkshires. We provide corporate formation services, business consulting, and business litigation services. From business formation to contract disputes and ownership struggles, our attorneys are here to help you navigate the complexities of business law in Massachusetts. We understand the unique hurdles you face and are ready to help you make sound decisions to protect your business. Whether it’s deciding the most beneficial entity structure or managing operations, our team is here to provide you with the best legal counsel possible. Don’t let legal issues stop you from achieving success – contact our business lawyers in Massachusetts today and we will help you tackle any legal obstacles to your business success.
Business Disputes
Business disputes can be costly, contentious, and complex, but alternative dispute resolution (ADR) offers a potential alternative without resorting to litigation. ADR is an effective and quicker way to resolve disputes through mediation or arbitration. When entering into a contract, parties should consider adding provisions for ADR clauses which allow them to customize any future dispute resolution process. A skilled contract lawyer can advise on combining provisions for both mediation and arbitration, although clients should be aware that arbitration is binding on parties.
Business Transactions
Attorney Hashim is a founding partner of Hashim and Spinola. He has extensive experience in real estate and commercial transactions having completed over 5,000 transactions in his career.
Limited Liability Companies
At HASHIM & SPINOLA, our corporate formation and business litigation attorneys specialize in helping business owners navigate the complex web of legal requirements associated with corporate formation, realty trusts, partnerships, limited liability companies, joint ventures, franchising, shareholders’ rights, business planning and closely held businesses. We understand that each business has unique challenges. Whether you’re dealing with corporate leases, real estate disputes, or need to establish a source of business credit, we have the expertise to guide you. Don’t let the legal side of running your business become overwhelming – contact us today and let us help you to stay compliant and secure.
Workplace injuries resulting in disability and even death happen unexpectedly and in many different ways. These include falls, lifting, automobile and truck crashes, and construction accidents. Often they do not result from sudden accidents but occur as a result of performing certain tasks over time. For example, nursing duties involved in caring for patients such as boosting, dressing, grooming, and transporting frequently cause back, neck, shoulder, and, even, hand, wrist and elbow injuries. Repetitive tasks such as prolonged standing, walking, and climbing frequently result in workplace injuries. Typing and the use of a mouse, repetitively turning your head in awkward positions, power gripping of tools, boosting patients, and repetitive lifting are frequent causes of injuries for which workers compensation benefits may be payable. Exposure to toxic chemicals and substances can cause injury over time. If you suffer injuries, your life can change dramatically and you will be facing medical bills and will be unable to earn wages and provide for your family. You should consult an experienced workers compensation attorney if you feel that your work in some way has caused an injury, even if you can’t remember a particular accident.
Employment Contract
From annual meetings and reports to board meeting minutes, employment agreements and state licensing requirements, HASHIM & SPINOLA understand the importance of staying up-to-date on all corporate governance matters. Our attorneys provide comprehensive regulation compliance assistance to small businesses, families, and corporations in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. We also offer risk management advice to ensure your business is in full compliance with all state and federal regulations. Call us today or visit our website to schedule a free consultation and find out how our experts can help your business succeed in the long term
When it comes to land ownership, purchasing or development, zoning, environmental regulations, and land use are crucial aspects that cannot be ignored. To expand your home, acquire commercial property or construct on land you have obtained, following the correct procedures, and adhering to various zoning, environmental and land use regulations established by the local government or conservation commission is essential. Failure to comply with these regulations could lead to disastrous consequences for a business, development project, or home renovation. Additionally, zoning and land use disputes can be intricate, resulting in monetary losses. Therefore, it is recommended to seek the advice of a real estate attorney who can guide you appropriately and represent your interests in case of any issues. If you have any further questions regarding real estate law or want to discuss your specific concerns with a legal expert, contact us for help in assisting you with swift and accurate advice.
Premises Liability
The legal team and HASHIM & SPINOLA know the technical legal and regulatory requirements that an injured person must follow to seek compensation for their injuries. All of these legal requirements are We will fight for yoiu to As this can be very challenging to prove, it is highly recommended that you seek the assistance of an experienced premises liability lawyer if you have sustained an injury on a property. At HASHIM & SPINOLA, we have been representing injured clients throughout the state for many years now.
Construction Litigation
In Massachusetts, dealing with commercial real estate involves intricate legal complexities. To ensure the protection of your business interests during the management, purchase, or sale of commercial real estate, our professional clients, be they individuals, businesses, or other entities, rely on our experienced real estate attorneys. We offer effective, timely, and cost-effective solutions for any commercial real estate legal needs, including on issues including construction contracts, land and property development, insurance and title claims, environmental issues, and many more.
Real Estate Transactions
Every property and real estate transaction is unique in Massachusetts with multiple parties involved, each focused on their own interests. HASHIM & SPINOLA provides proficient representation in various property transactions, with our lawyers having more than 40 years of collective experience in this sector. We offer comprehensive and outcome-driven advice to purchasers, vendors, and lenders for a broad spectrum of real estate issues from the basic purchase/sale of a residential house to a complex commercial transaction as well as to landlords and tenants in connection with leases, evictions and other housing issues.
Easement
Land Use and Zoning
In Massachusetts, it is mandatory to follow local property regulations if you plan to construct an addition to your home, or a new home on an unimproved lot. Each municipality has its own zoning and land utilization standards. Before initiating any construction on your property, most homeowners will require authorization from their town. Our legal team can collaborate with you to secure a zoning variance, special permit, Conservation Commission approval, or any other requirement to assist you in progressing with your construction plans.
Landlord-Tenant Disputes
We represent both landlords and tenants in the Housing Court. We are familiar with the process that is involved in commencing and maintaining an eviction action. We are experienced at identifying the issues involved in an eviction action, whether it be a non-payment case or a no-fault eviction, so that we can effectively reach an agreement to maintain the landlord-tenant relationship or try the case.
For over 40 years the aggressive legal team at HASHIM & SPINOLA through legal expertise, hard work, and integrity has successfully represented injured and disabled victims of someone else’s negligence. Our clients receive substantial compensation that helps to relieve their suffering and restore their quality of life after suffering a life-altering injury. Expert legal representation is vital because personal injury cases are legally and medically complex and involve pushing back against insurance companies that will find any excuse not to pay you the compensation you deserve. If you've been injured due to someone else's negligence, it's crucial to seek the help of experienced lawyers like those at HASHIM & SPINOLA. In a nutshell, personal injury law refers to physical and/or emotional injuries suffered by you because someone failed to do the right thing or acted carelessly and negligently. Car or truck accidents, pedestrian injuries, construction accidents, falls due to unsafe conditions on someone’s property, or medical negligence, for example, are the common causes of personal injuries.
Medical Malpractice
A $3,000,000 medical malpractice award against an ophthalmologist who failed to follow up on referral of patient to surgeon for surgery on occluded carotid artery, resulting in a devastating stroke.
Auto Accidents
Social Security Disability
If you have a severe physical and/or mental impairment that prevents you from working and engaging in your normal daily activities, you may be eligible to receive disability benefits from the Social Security Administration. The benefits are payable under the Social Security Disability Income program (SSDI) based on your earnings and contribution to the social security system while you were working. The other program is the Supplemental Security Income program (SSI) that it is available to adults and disabled children even if they have never paid into the social security system. Also, to receive SSI benefits you must meet the financial eligibility requirements.
We also specialize in estate planning and secure and tax-advantageous solutions. A cross-purchase agreement, for example, can be the ideal choice for business owners who want to avoid the risks and tax disadvantages associated with a redemption agreement. Contact HASHIM & SPINOLA today to learn more about the comprehensive business succession services we provide.
Wills
When someone passes away, their assets are distributed based on their Last Will and Testament, which also designates one or more personal representatives to collect assets, pay bills and expenses, and then distribute to the people named in the will. It can name guardians for minors if needed. It can waive surety on bonds, which can save the estate significant expense. Wills can stand allow or work together with additional documents if more sophisticated planning is needed. We are always here to help.
Trusts
There are many different types of trusts for many different purposes. They can serve to effectively distribute an estate to a spouse, children, and future generations. They can minimize estate taxes. For families with individuals with special needs or who receive disability benefits, trusts can be designed to serve the individual’s special needs and to protect benefits. They may be able to protect assets in the event of long-term care. Trusts can be Revocable or Irrevocable Trusts depending on your specific circumstances and goals. As its name implies, a revocable trust can be modified or dissolved at any time. An Irrevocable trust doesn’t offer the same flexibility but can serve to protect assets in circumstances where a revocable trust would not.
Power of Attorney
A Durable Power of Attorney enables its creator to name the person(s) they choose to act on their behalf for financial matters. This legal document carries significant weight and should only appoint someone the creator truly trusts. The “durable” nature of this type of power of attorney allows it to be effective even in the event of the creator's inability to manage financial matters. Having this document in place can allow financial needs to be met without having to obtain conservatorship through the court.
Divorce/Family law; Real Estate Sales & Purchases; Foreclosures; Business Organization; Contracts; Civil Litigation; Personal Injury; Landlord/Tenant evictions
Tax Law
HASHIM & SPINOLA are committed to safeguarding your rights and interests when it comes to business agreements. With more than a century of experience between us, our corporate tax attorneys provide experienced counsel to businesses in throughout the Berkshires, helping you to draft, review, and negotiate contracts, licensing agreements, distribution agreements, and a variety of other business agreements. Our team is also well-versed in tax law, allowing us to offer advice on the individual and entity-related tax implications of any business deals. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help protect your business interests.