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Ronald E. Sneed, P.A. |
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Real Estate Purchases • Sales • Refinances • Construction Loans • Deeds • Easements • Homeowner's Associations • Subdivisions • Foreclosures For most people, purchasing a home is the greatest investment they will ever make. It should be made wisely and with the assistance of an attorney. Title to real property is not a document such as a certificate of title to an automobile, but is an ownership right. Examination of title is an extensive review of the public records and requires a thorough knowledge of many areas of the law. Ron performs full 60-year title searches to be certain that Buyers receive fee simple, marketable title. Ron will also review surveys, contracts, and loan documents, as well as coordinate with all parties to collect information necessary for closing. *To protect yourself, you should never sign documents pertaining to your property interests or rights without having them prepared or reviewed by an attorney. This includes contracts, easements, deeds, deeds of trust, and estate planning documents. Signing loan documents without an attorney may obligate you to a high cost loan; fail to adequately pay off, close and cancel outstanding loans; or create title defects which are very costly to correct.* Litigation Sometimes it is necessary to go to court to settle a civil dispute over contracts, leases, or money owed. If you have been served with a civil summons, or are contemplating filing an action against another individual, it is important to remember that the law imposes numerous deadlines which must be strictly adhered to. You should make an appointment to speak with an attorney as quickly as possible. Ron also handles real property litigation whether it is a boundary dispute with a neighbor, difficulty accessing property over an easement, or discovery of a defect in a chain of title. Ron's commanding knowledge of real property law and thorough research of public record assures that every matter is resolved as timely and equitably as possible. Estate Planning Wills • Powers of Attorney • Health Care Powers of Attorney Living Wills • Trusts A Last Will and Testament allows you to specify what should be done with your assets after your death. Without a will, the distribution is controlled by North Carolina law. Your will can establish a trust for the benefit of minor children or grandchildren, and appoint guardians, trustees and executors. Reviewing your wishes with an estate planning attorney will allow you to be informed about the most cost efficient and simple estate plan. Clients who reside in another state, but own real estate in North Carolina should speak with an attorney about their estate plan to make sure that North Carolina property is adequately addressed. Another important part of the estate plan are powers of attorney. A General Power of Attorney allows someone to pay bills and handle business or property transactions, and a Health Care Power of Attorney allows someone to make health care decisions. The General Power of Attorney is effective upon recording with the Register of Deeds, and a Health Care Power of Attorney becomes effective only when a physician determines that you lack the ability to make health care decisions for yourself. Estate Administration Probate is the administration of a person’s estate through the office of the Clerk of Court. When a person dies owning assets, the probate process must be started by an administrator who will settle the decedent’s affairs. The administrator’s job includes notifying creditors and beneficiaries, gathering assets, paying debts, accounting for all property that comes into and goes out of the estate, and properly distributing the decedent’s property. Ron can assist with all of the administrator’s duties so that the family may focus on more important matters. Municipal and Local Government Law Zoning Matters • Subdivision Matters Ron has over twenty-five years experience as municipal attorney for the Town of Black Mountain. Mr. Sneed also represents clients before municipal and county boards and commissions on issues involving zoning, assessments, land use and planning. Construction Law Ron prepares and reviews construction contracts to protect homeowners from costly time delays, faulty workmanship or overcharges, and contractors from nonpayment. Ron also has extensive experience representing both homeowners and contractors in disputes over payment issues and workmanship. Business Law Corporations • Partnerships • Limited Liability Companies • Non-Profits There are several types of business entities available in North Carolina, including Sub-S corporations, non-profit corporations, limited liability companies, joint ventures and partnerships. Each type of entity carries its own advantages and disadvantages. Making the right decision is vital to protecting client’s personal assets from the liabilities of the business. Every client forming a business entity should be sure to consult a tax professional before scheduling an appointment with Mr. Sneed, as different business entities have different tax consequences. Contact us at (828) 669-7953 or fill out our contact form and Ginny Lindsey or Anna Stearns will contact you by the next business day to further discuss how we can be of service to you. TOP |