By: Robert B. Bellitto WHAT IS A TRUST? In simplest terms, a trust is an instrument that directs the distribution of assets and income. It is further defined by state statute (C.G.S. Section 802c) and more recently, the Connecticut Uniform Trust Code (Public Act No. 19-137) which became effective January 1, 2020.  WHO ARE THE PARTIES TO A TRUST? All trusts have three primary parties: SETTLOR (a/k/a GRANTOR or Read More

Connecticut doesn't have a traditional "three strikes" law like California or other states. But don't let that fool you. The consequences for repeat offenders can be just as severe, sometimes worse. Under Connecticut law, prosecutors can seek enhanced penalties when someone has prior felony convictions. This classification falls under what's known as persistent offender status. It dramatically changes the sentencing Read More

By Christopher Cerami, Carolyn Lenoci, and Libby Branca If you are pulled over for driving under the influence (“DUI”), the officer may ask you to submit to one or more chemical tests to determine your blood alcohol concentration (“BAC”). The results of the chemical test will play a significant role in the outcome of your DUI case.  What is BAC? BAC refers to the amount of alcohol in a person’s bloodstream. Read More

Most everyone understands that once an attorney-client relationship is formed, various rights and obligations arise. The problem is that it is not always clear when an attorney-client relationship has formed. To date, Connecticut ‘s appellate courts have provided very limited guidance on this issue. For example, "[a]n attorney-client relationship is established when the advice and assistance of the attorney is sought Read More

Truck accidents can be devastating, leading to severe injuries and substantial damage, and at Willinger, Willinger & Bucci, PLLC, our Bridgeport, CT truck accident lawyer is here to guide you through the process. When involved in a truck accident it’s essential to know the necessary steps to protect your rights and seek compensation. In this listicle, we outline five crucial steps to take after a truck Read More

Willinger, Willinger & Bucci, PLLC is pleased to announce the recipient of its legal scholarship award for 2024. While it was a difficult task to choose from the many talented and gifted applicants, this recipient is a standout for both her intellectual prowess and the breadth of her commitment to law, the legal field and to her community. She exemplifies the heart, grit and work ethic that Willinger, Willinger Read More

The recent controversy surrounding the dismissal of TaShun Bowden-Lewis, the former Chief Public Defender of Connecticut, has escalated into a high-profile legal battle. With accusations of wrongful termination and racial discrimination, the case has attracted significant attention, particularly due to the involvement of Thomas W. Bucci, Connecticut employment attorney here at Willinger, Willinger & Bucci, Read More

Our clients who are residential landlords should be aware of some significant changes in Connecticut law, many of which became effective October 1, 2023. There are amendments to existing laws and new legislation which impact tenant onboarding, impose limitations on late fees and alter the timeframe for the return of or accounting for residential security deposits. Limitations Re: Tenant Onboarding Public Act 23-207, Read More

If you were in an accident and walked away not realizing the extent of the damage, this incident still could have lasting effects on you and how you live your life. Learning about how personal injuries can change how you react to situations or how they can impair your physical health is important. 1. Different Cognitive State In the time after an accident, you may notice yourself forgetting what you were going to say Read More