Meltzer Lippe: Briefly Speaking: No Contest Clauses - Do They Really Prevent Estate Litigation?

Meltzer Lippe: Briefly Speaking: No Contest Clauses - Do They Really Prevent Estate Litigation?

Episode Overview No contest clauses—also known as in terrorem clauses—are commonly used in estate planning to discourage beneficiaries from challenging a will or trust. But how effective are they in practice? In this episode, David Heymann, Managing Partner, sits down with David Bamdad, Chair of the firm's Trust & Estate Litigation Practice group, to take a closer look at how no contest clauses work, the common pitfalls that can limit their enforceability, and whether they truly reduce estate litigation. They also discuss legal limitations on their use and explore potential changes on the horizon that may impact how these clauses are drafted and enforced. This conversation offers practical insight for individuals planning their estates as well as professionals navigating trust and estate disputes. Topics Covered * What are no contest (in terrorem) clauses? * Common mistakes when including no contest clauses in estate planning documents * Do no contest clauses actually reduce litigation? * Legal limitations and exceptions * Emerging trends and future considerations

Meltzer Lippe Briefly Speaking: AI - The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

In this episode of Meltzer Lippe Briefly Speaking, Managing Partner David Heymann joins Michael Masri, Litigation Partner, for an in-depth conversation on “AI — The Good, The Bad & The Ugly.” They break down how artificial intelligence is transforming the legal industry, including its impact on litigation strategy, risk management, compliance, and client service. The discussion explores the benefits of AI in law, the emerging risks, and the ethical and regulatory considerations every law firm and business leader should be aware of as these technologies evolve. Listeners will gain practical insight into: * How AI is currently being used in legal practice * The challenges and limitations of AI-driven tools * Data privacy, accuracy, and attorney-oversight concerns * Where AI is headed and how organizations can prepare This episode is a must-listen for attorneys, in-house counsel, business owners, and anyone interested in the intersection of law, technology, and artificial intelligence.

Meltzer Lippe Briefly Speaking: A Primer on M&A Transactions

What actually happens when a business decides to sell? In this episode, we walk through the lifecycle of a mergers and acquisitions (M&A) deal—from the moment a client says, “I want to sell my business,” to the final closing. We break down the different types of transactions, including mergers, asset sales, and equity purchases, and discuss the key legal and strategic steps along the way. Whether you’re a business owner considering a sale or simply curious about how M&A works, this episode gives you an inside look at how deals get done.

Meltzer Lippe Briefly Speaking: Business Bankruptcy Considerations

Thinking About Bankruptcy? Start Here. In this episode of Meltzer Lippe Briefly Speaking, Managing Partner David J. Heymann sits down with Scott A. Steinberg, Partner in the firm’s Bankruptcy, Workouts, and Creditors’ Rights Practice Group, to unpack what business owners and stakeholders need to know when considering bankruptcy as a strategic option. From early warning signs and restructuring alternatives to the pros and cons of Chapter 11, this candid conversation covers the key legal and financial insights that can help you make informed decisions. 🎙️ Whether you’re a business owner, advisor, or lender—this episode is a must-watch.

Meltzer Lippe Briefly Speaking: Don’t Just Move—A Discussion for Leaving NY Taxes Behind

David J. Heymann, Managing Partner, sits down with Andrew L. Baron, Partner in the firm's Private Wealth & Taxation Practice Group, to discuss moving from NY to a tax-free state.