The Use of Section 2503(c) Trusts in Estate Planning
By Corey W. Moore, Esq. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Section 2503(c) outlines the transfer of gifts for the benefit of a minor and occupies a unique and valuable tool in estate and gift tax planning. Section 2503(c) offers families a way to make tax‑efficient gifts to minors while maintaining control of the gifted asset(s). Under […]
The Importance of Business Governance Documents
By Timothy P. Brynteson, Esq. from the BizWest 2026 Book of Lists Governance documents, such as articles of incorporation, bylaws, operating agreements in LLCs or partnerships, owner agreements regarding transfers of ownership, and codes of conduct, establish clear rules about how a business is structured and managed. While many businesses have some form of these […]
2026 Key Changes to Colorado Real Estate Law
By Elizabeth D. Arcane, Esq. Beginning January 1, 2026, several significant real estate laws passed by the Colorado 2025 General Assembly took effect, bringing changes to pricing transparency, tenant screening, and security deposit practices. These laws are part of an effort to protect renters across the state. Increasing Price Transparency House Bill (HB) 25-1090 targets […]
Why Recording Matters: How Colorado’s Recording System Creates Reliable Chains of Title
By Frederick J. Steimling, Esq. Colorado’s real estate system depends on a deceptively simple concept: people should be able to rely on the public record to determine who owns property and what interests affect it. Recording statutes exist to prevent “secret” claims to land and to allow purchasers, lenders, and investors to assess risk by […]
Common Pitfalls for Businesses that Neglect Legal Counsel
By Pablo E. Perez, Esq. All startups, family businesses, and early-stage entities must maintain a competitive advantage to survive. Although that drive is necessary, it can also exacerbate legal risks. Businesses in any stage of development can avoid the missteps that could create long-term liabilities which may then erase revenue gains and turn away investors. […]
What the “One Big Beautiful Bill” Means for Your Estate Plan
By Annaliese Bennett, Esq. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, often nicknamed the “OBBA,” was signed into law in July 2025 and made permanent changes to the federal estate, gift, and generation-skipping transfer (GST) tax exemptions. Under the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), the federal estate and gift tax exemption was temporarily doubled […]
Corporations May Be Subject to Uncapped Noneconomic Damages
By Lee J. Morehead, Esq. The Colorado Court of Appeals in Ross v. Public Service articulated a significant expansion of liability for corporations in wrongful‐death cases. The plaintiffs (the heirs of Carol Ross) sued the utility company Xcel Energy after a drilling incident ruptured a natural‐gas pipeline, resulting in an explosion that killed Ms. Ross and destroyed her home. At […]
New Time Limits on Non-Competes for Minority Shareholders
By Timothy P. Brynteson, Esq. In a continued effort to limit the use of non-compete agreements (non-competes) in Colorado, the Legislature has passed Senate Bill 25-083 (SB 83), that amends the business sale exception found in Colorado Revised Statutes (C.R.S.) § 8-2-113(3)(c), by imposing new restrictions that specifically target non-competes in the context of medical […]
The Role of Easements in Colorado Resource Conservation
By Frederick J. Steimling, Esq. An easement is a legal right to use another person’s land for a specific purpose. In Colorado, easements are common in both residential and commercial property transactions and can significantly affect how land is used, developed, or preserved. Whether you are buying, selling, or protecting property, understanding the different types […]
Corey W. Moore, Esq. Recognized in 2026 Edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America
Otis & Bedingfield, LLC congratulates Partner Corey W. Moore, Esq. for his inclusion in the 2026 edition of The Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America recognizing his work with closely held companies and family businesses law. This is the third year that Corey has been recognized for this peer-reviewed distinction. Congratulations, Corey!
