Matthew R. Zatko Attorney at Law

09/03/2026

Choosing the right trust structure depends on your goals for flexibility, tax efficiency, and creditor protection. Exploring how revocable and irrevocable trusts function ensures your assets are managed according to your wishes.

Learn the differences between revocable and irrevocable trusts and how they impact your estate planning.

09/03/2026

Federal wire fraud charges carry severe penalties, requiring prosecutors to prove a scheme to defraud involving electronic or interstate communications. Understanding the statutory elements and intent requirements is critical when building a defense.

https://www.investopedia.com/terms/w/wirefraud.asp

09/01/2026

Anything you say to law enforcement officers can be used against you, but invoking your right to counsel stops questioning immediately. Knowing the narrow exceptions for driver ID checks helps ensure your constitutional rights stay protected.

You could be questioned by a variety of law enforcement officers, including state or local police officers, Joint Terrorism Task Force members, or federal agents from the FBI, Department of Homeland Security (which includes Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Border Patrol), Drug Enforcement...

08/31/2026

Involved in a multi-vehicle accident? Comparative negligence rules determine how fault is divided and how much compensation you can recover. Learn how pure vs. modified fault laws impact auto crash claims.

Comparative negligence is a principle of tort law commonly used to assign blame and award monetary damages to injured parties in auto accidents.

08/27/2026

A living will ensures your preferences for emergency medical care are clearly documented if you become unable to communicate. Setting up your advance directives early protects your wishes and eases the burden on loved ones. Learn what to include: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/advance-care-planning/preparing-living-will

08/27/2026

Can the police legally track your phone's location if you're near a crime scene? A landmark Supreme Court ruling says geofence warrants are a Fourth Amendment search requiring strict privacy protections. Learn more about the limits being placed on digital surveillance here.

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jun/29/supreme-court-geofence-warrants-case-decision #:~:text=Mon%2029%20Jun%202026%2011.23%20EDT%20First,view%20their%20use%20as%20an%20unconstitutional%20dragnet.

Law enforcement’s use of warrants sweeping smartphone location data requires privacy protections, court rules

08/26/2026

After a vehicle collision, understanding your rights regarding compensation for medical expenses and lost earnings can impact your overall recovery. Knowing when a claim involves complex issues like permanent injury or disputed fault helps protect your financial well-being.

Expert accident resources built on real first responder experience from firefighters and paramedics.

08/25/2026

A living trust keeps your assets out of probate court, but a will is still essential to appoint guardians for minor children. Pairing a trust with a backup "pour-over" will gives you complete protection. Learn the key differences between wills and trusts here.

https://www.willmaker.com/learn/living-trusts/trust-vs-will-do-you-need-both.html

08/25/2026

Evidence obtained through an illegal search or seizure can often be excluded from trial under the Fourth Amendment. Knowing your privacy rights and how officers must follow constitutional limits is key when building a defense. https://www.justia.com/criminal/procedure/search-and-seizure-rules/

08/20/2026

Can a nursing home hold family members personally responsible for a relative's care bills? Under federal law, admission contracts cannot force caregivers to guarantee payment from personal assets. Learn how to review agreements and protect your estate

https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/educator-tools/resources-for-older-adults/know-your-rights-caregivers-and-nursing-home-debt/