Matthew R. Zatko Attorney at Law

05/28/2026

Estate planning puts you in control of your assets and care—start with an inventory, update beneficiaries, and set durable powers of attorney and health‑care directives. Review regularly and consult an estate‑planning attorney for a confidential, state‑specific review.

For estate planning, take inventory, account for family needs, establish directives, review beneficiaries, note state tax laws, weigh getting help and reassess.

05/28/2026

Drug‑impaired driving is against the law and increases crash risk. Alcohol, prescription meds, and ma*****na can all impair judgment and reaction time. Plan ahead for a sober ride and keep your friends and family safe. Learn more: https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drug-impaired-driving

05/27/2026

Knowing what to do immediately after a car accident—such as contacting the police, documenting the scene, and exchanging information—is critical to protecting your physical safety and insurance recovery. If you are dealing with severe injuries, disputed fault, or a hit-and-run driver, consult a personal injury attorney to safely navigate the claims process and protect your rights.

Even a minor car accident can cause major stress. Here's what to do after a crash—whether it's your fault or the other driver's

05/26/2026

Did you know that outdated beneficiary designations on your retirement accounts or life insurance policies can completely override your trust? Do not let a simple paperwork mismatch misdirect your inheritance. Check out these five vital trust rules and call us to update your plan.

Seniors should review these five revocable living trust rules before June to avoid probate mistakes, tax confusion, and Medicaid surprises.

05/26/2026

Juvenile court cases can involve detention hearings, rehabilitation programs, probation, and, in some situations, transfer to adult court. Learn more about the juvenile justice process and the legal protections available to minors.

Juvenile Justice from a youth rights lens. How does the process work? What rights do Juveniles not have compared to adults? Flaws and abuses of Juvenile Justice

05/21/2026

Estate planning involves more than simply filling out forms or using online templates. Learn more about the role an estate planning attorney can play in helping protect your assets and long-term wishes.

https://www.americanbar.org/groups/real_property_trust_estate/resources/estate-planning/lawyers-role/

05/21/2026

Criminal defendants have the constitutional right to represent themselves in court, but judges must first determine whether they are legally competent to do so. Learn more about self-representation and the legal standards involved.

https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/right-represent-yourself-criminal-case.html

05/19/2026

A denied car insurance claim does not always mean the process is over. Learn more about common reasons claims are denied, how the appeals process works, and when legal guidance may help.

Understanding why your claim was denied will help with the appeal process.

05/19/2026

Your financial advisor can tell you why you need a Spousal Lifetime Access Trust (SLAT) to protect your wealth, but only an experienced estate planning attorney can legally build it. Read this excellent breakdown on the power of SLATs, and contact our legal team when you are ready to execute your plan.

https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/wealth-management-insights/protect-assets-with-a-SLAT

05/19/2026

Fraud covers many offenses (wire, mail, securities, healthcare) and can result in heavy fines and prison time. If fraud is alleged or suspected, seek legal advice promptly to protect rights and evidence.

How is the crime of fraud defined, and when can it occur? Examples include bank, credit card, insurance, tax, securities, and welfare fraud.