Carolynn E. Grennell

Carolynn E. Grennell focuses her practice in the areas of Estate Planning and Business and Corporate Law.

Estate Planning

As a member of our Estate Planning team, Carolynn works closely with clients to develop an estate plan that meets their individual needs. Each client that comes through our doors has unique wants, needs, and goals when it comes to their estate plan. Carolynn takes the time to get to know her clients and develop an estate plan that not only protects their assets and ensures their wishes are carried out but leaves them with peace of mind.

It is common to speak with clients who are hesitant to want to plan for a time when they are no longer here, but it is critical to have a plan in place, and Carolynn helps put clients at ease with the process and embrace the importance of protecting themselves, their loved ones, and a lifetime of hard work. Carolyn works with clients to ensure they have the three basic components of estate planning in place:

1. Will

Having a will allows you to dictate how your assets and belongings will be distributed after your death, ensuring that your wishes are carried out. Without a will, your estate may be subject to intestacy laws, which could distribute your assets in a way that does not align with your preferences. A will also enables you to appoint guardians for any minor children. Finally, having a will can help minimize family conflicts and legal complications that may arise in the absence of clear instructions. It provides clarity and peace of mind for both you and your loved ones during a difficult time.

2. Healthcare Proxy

Having a healthcare proxy is crucial because it allows you to designate someone you trust to make medical decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so. It ensures your preferences for medical treatment are respected, even if you are incapacitated and cannot communicate them.

This person advocates for your wishes regarding treatments, medications, and end-of-life care. In unforeseen emergencies such as accidents or sudden illness, decisions about your medical care may need to be made quickly. Without a designated healthcare proxy, these important decisions may fall to family members or healthcare providers who may not be aware of your preferences or may have conflicting opinions. Having a legally appointed proxy ensures that the person you trust most is empowered to act on your behalf.

3. Power of Attorney

A power of attorney is a legal document that grants someone else the authority to make decisions and act on your behalf. None of us can predict when we might become incapacitated due to illness, injury, or other unforeseen circumstances.

Having a power of attorney allows you to designate someone you trust to manage your affairs if you become unable to do so. This ensures that your financial, medical, and legal matters are taken care of in accordance with your wishes.

Carolynn has the experience and understanding to guide clients through this process and ensure you create an estate plan that is right for you and your family.

Business and Corporate Law

Carolynn, along with our experienced corporate law practice members, works with clients to address a wide variety of business needs, with a focus on the following areas:

• Business formation

Launching a new business can be an exciting venture, but many entrepreneurs find themselves struggling with the myriad requirements at the state and federal level to properly form their business entity. Carolynn works with clients to decide what type of business formation makes the most sense for your situation, then handles the process every step of the way so that you can focus on what you do best. From forming an LLC to registering names and trademarks and beyond, Carolynn and our team will make sure no stone is left unturned as you launch your business.

• Liquor licenses

Carolynn has a wealth of experience assisting bars and restaurant through the complex process of obtaining a New York liquor license. She works with clients on every step of the process including:

• Successfully completing the application and obtaining a liquor license.
• Making any necessary adjustments to obtain a renewal of an existing license.
• Handling any legal issues that arise, including the need for representation in front of the State Liquor Authority Enforcement Bureau. Securing a liquor license is a challenge, Carolynn and our team work hard to make sure that if an issue does arise, everything is done to protect your license and keep the doors of your business open.