Navigating the estate settlement process after the death of a loved one is an emotional and confusing matter for many people. The existence of password-protected online accounts can further complicate this process. So, what can you do about these “digital assets”? Keep reading to learn more on the specifics of navigating digital assets when settling an estate. Revised Uniform Fiduciary Access to Digital Assets Act The Revised Uniform Fiduciary Access to Digital Assets Act (RUFADAA) is a uniform law that has been adopted by nearly all U.S. states, including Minnesota. RUFADAA dictates which dig ..read more

With the arrival of spring, motorcyclists are returning to the roads to capitalize on the warmer weather. But with increased traffic comes an increased need for safety. Motorcyclists are at greater risk for serious and fatal accidents than other motorists for several reasons. Motorcycles are smaller than cars and don’t offer the same protection. Many drivers don’t think to watch for motorcycles either, especially if they have never ridden one themselves. In this blog, we’ll examine three of the most common motorcycle accidents, how to avoid them, and how drivers and motorcyclists can safely sh ..read more

Prenuptial agreements, often referred to as “prenups,” are legal documents designed to outline the division of assets and financial responsibilities in the event of divorce or the death of one spouse. While some people may view prenups as something that is negative or unnecessary, prenups can offer significant benefits for couples entering into marriage. Continue reading as we explore the benefits of prenuptial agreements. Asset Protection One of the primary benefits of a prenuptial agreement is the ability to protect your assets that you acquired before your marriage. This is important for in ..read more

A slip, trip, and fall incident is an unfortunate event that can happen to anyone, anywhere. Whether it’s a wet floor at a grocery store, an icy sidewalk during winter, or a poorly maintained staircase, these accidents often result in serious personal injuries. In this blog, we’ll explore what to do after a slip, trip, and fall incident. Prioritize Your Safety Immediately after a slip, trip, and fall, prioritize your safety and seek medical attention. Even if injuries seem minor at first, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to assess the extent of your injuries. Prompt med ..read more

Family law issues can be emotional and overwhelming for all involved. From divorce and child custody to domestic violence, each case brings its own set of challenges. In this post, learn more about Minnesota family law and the key principles that govern these sensitive matters. Child Custody One of the most emotionally charged aspects of family law revolves around child custody. Courts prioritize the best interest of the child when determining custody arrangements. Factors such as the child’s well-being, relationship with each parent, and the ability to provide a stable environment are conside ..read more

As the temperatures in the Twin Cities begin to drop and snow begins to blanket the roads, it’s critical that you gear up for winter driving. Navigating through these severe winter conditions requires a different set of skills and precautions than driving in warmer seasons. Continue reading our blog as we explore some essential tips to help ensure your safety and your confidence on the icy Minnesota roads. Make Sure Your Vehicle is Prepared Before hitting the road, make sure your vehicle is winter-ready. This includes checking the battery, brakes, tires, and fluid levels. Consider switching to ..read more

Minnesota’s new Earned Sick and Safety Time Leave Law (ESST) is approaching, and Minnesota business owners need to have policies in place and prepared to go live on January 1, 2024. Employers must provide each employee in Minnesota with at least one hour of paid sick and safe time for every 30 hours worked, up to at least 48 hours of accrued ESST a year. An employee is anyone who works at least 80 hours a year for an employer in Minnesota and is not an independent contractor. An employer’s existing leave policy, such as paid time off (PTO), may already fully or partially meet Minnesota’s earne ..read more

The Corporate Transparency Act (“CTA”) is a federal law that will go into effect on January 1, 2024. Unless a company is exempt from reporting (see below) all business entities formed in the U.S. will need to complete and file a beneficial ownership disclosure form (“BOI”) with the U.S. Treasury’s Financial Crimes and Enforcement Network (“FinCen”). Will it apply to my company? The CTA applies to all entities formed in the U.S. with several significant exemptions, including but not limited to: 1) entities that are already heavily regulated (like banks and insurance companies), 2) large compani ..read more

Have you heard about the Corporate Transparency Act? Starting in January 2024, many entities will need to report ownership and management information to FinCEN — Financial Crimes Enforcement Network. This branch of the US Treasury Department collects and examines details on economic transactions to help thwart domestic and international financial crimes. Barna, Guzy & Steffen has been actively educating our clients and business partners about this important law. As people become more aware of the requirements, criminals have seen this new reporting requirement as an opportunity to ste ..read more

The COVID-19 pandemic changed the way we live, shop, and work. It also changed the way we head to court. To its credit, the Minnesota Judicial Branch took just a month or so to adjust following the COVID-19 outbreak. While online communication appeared to be a Band-Aid® at the time, remote court hearings have since become the norm. With the exception of trials, almost all other family court hearings are now handled via Zoom. The fact that we have become amateur broadcasters requires attention to how you appear on camera. Here are 10 things to remember in the Zoom court era. Turn on your camera ..read more