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Author: Compass Advocacy

Estate Planning Made Simple

Posted on by Compass Advocacy

Think estate planning is just for the ultra-wealthy or elderly? Think again. If you have loved ones, assets, or a vision for your legacy, estate planning is for you. It’s about making your wishes known, protecting the people you care about, and gaining peace of mind—no matter what the future holds. Working with an experienced estate planning lawyer ensures that your plan is thorough, legally sound, and aligned with your personal goals.

At Compass Law Partners, we understand that no two lives—or legacies—are the same. Whether you need a straightforward will or a sophisticated trust arrangement, our seasoned attorneys will tailor a plan to your unique needs. Serving clients throughout Maryland and the DMV, we offer expert guidance in estate and asset protection planning. Ready to take the next step? Call us today at (240) 560-3030 to learn more about our estate planning services.

What’s the Big Deal About Estate Planning?

Here’s why estate planning is more than just paperwork—it’s a powerful tool for:

  • Peace of mind: With a legal plan in place, families can avoid confusion and conflict in times of stress. Sleep easier knowing your loved ones are taken care of and your wishes will be honored.
  • Avoiding probate: Skip the stress, delays, and public exposure of the probate process. Proper planning with an inheritance planning lawyer can keep your affairs private and ensure a smooth transfer of assets.
  • Protecting your family: Appoint guardians, create trusts, and ensure your children and heirs are financially secure. This is especially important for young families, blended families, or those caring for dependents with special needs.
  • Giving with impact: Direct your wealth to causes you care about while potentially lowering your estate tax burden. Strategic charitable giving and tax-efficient planning can preserve more of your estate and extend your legacy.

Essential Documents for a Solid Estate Plan

An effective estate plan is built on a foundation of core legal documents. These instruments protect assets, designate authority, and clarify healthcare and financial decisions. A qualified estate planning lawyer will ensure each document aligns with an individual’s specific needs and long-term objectives.
  1. Will: The cornerstone of your estate plan. Decide how your assets will be distributed and who will carry out your wishes.
  2. Trust: A flexible legal tool for managing and protecting assets—during your life and after.
  3. Durable Power of Attorney: Appoint someone to handle your finances if you become unable to do so.
  4. Healthcare Power of Attorney: Ensure someone you trust can make medical decisions if you’re incapacitated.
  5. Living Will: Clearly state your preferences for end-of-life care to spare your loved ones from difficult choices.

Contact an Estate Planning Lawyer in Maryland and the DMV

Estate planning doesn’t have to be overwhelming—with the right estate planning lawyer, it becomes empowering. Compass Law Partners helps Maryland residents build strong, personalized estate plans that stand the test of time. From wills and trusts to charitable giving and complex tax planning, we’ve got you covered. Call (240) 560-3030 to start building your legacy today.
Posted in Law

Our PR Powerhouse: Driving Real Impact this Session

Posted on by Compass Advocacy

The 2025 Maryland Legislative Session stands as a testament to our team’s ability to not only generate buzz but also to drive tangible action and achieve significant policy wins for our partners. We’ve leveraged strategic communication, grassroots mobilization, and targeted advocacy to deliver exceptional results across a diverse range of crucial issues.

Mobilizing Grassroots for Real Change
Beyond traditional media engagement, we effectively mobilized grassroots support to directly engage legislators. We orchestrated a significant constituent outreach effort, resulting in a Session total of 6,480 phone calls directed to 74 targeted legislators over a focused period. This direct engagement ensured lawmakers heard directly from their constituents about the potential impact of the proposed policy. Furthermore, our email campaigns generated an impressive 61,188 constituent emails reaching 139 targeted legislators, amplifying the message and demonstrating widespread concern.

Empowering Advocates, Driving Action
We also continued to empower advocacy organizations through the strategic development and implementation of “Take Action” pages on their websites. the integration of our tools resulted in 2,583 advocates taking action and generating a total of 35,479 emails through just a few action alerts. This demonstrates the power of providing accessible platforms for individuals to directly engage with policymakers and influence critical legislation.

Looking Ahead
This session’s successes underscore our commitment to delivering impactful PR and advocacy outcomes for our partners. By combining strategic communication, effective grassroots mobilization, and powerful digital tools, we continue to elevate voices, shape policy, and drive meaningful change. We look forward to building on this momentum in the sessions to come.

Effective Communication for Policy, Crisis & Reputation Management

Posted on by Compass Advocacy

Effective communication is the cornerstone of successful policy advocacy, crisis management, and reputation building. In a world where public perception can shift in an instant, how you communicate, and who you communicate with, determines the outcome of critical situations. A skilled public relations firm can help craft and deliver your message with precision, ensuring it resonates with your target audience.

At Compass Public Relations, we specialize in helping clients achieve their policy objectives, navigate crises, and manage their reputations. With our strategic approach, we craft powerful messages, build strong arguments, and amplify our clients’ stories to decision-makers, stakeholders, and the media. To learn more about our communication services or speak with our team, call (443) 343-7143 today.

Message Development: Crafting Clear, Compelling Messages 

The foundation of any successful communication strategy is a well-developed message. At Compass Public Relations, we work closely with our clients to understand their objectives and target audience. From there, we create messages that are not only clear and concise but also aligned with your goals.

Media Relations: Building Relationships That Matter 

Media coverage can be a powerful tool for boosting visibility and credibility. However, navigating the media landscape requires more than just sending out press releases. It’s about building strong relationships with journalists and outlets. Our media relations service connects clients with the media professionals best suited to tell their story. 

Media Training: Preparing You for the Spotlight

Compass Public Relations offers media training to help you confidently handle interviews and deliver your message effectively. We provide tailored coaching, preparing you for a range of scenarios—whether you’re speaking with a reporter, participating in a panel discussion, or delivering a public statement. Our goal is to ensure you’re always poised, articulate, and on-message when it matters most.

Press Releases: Grabbing Attention with Strategic Content

A well-crafted press release can be the key to getting your story in front of the right eyes. At Compass Public Relations, we specialize in writing attention-grabbing press releases that communicate your key information in a compelling way. Whether you’re announcing a new product, event, or important milestone, we know how to make sure your press release stands out and catches the attention of journalists and readers alike.

Op-Ed Draft & Placement: Sharing Your Perspective with the World

An op-ed can be an excellent way to share your perspective on current issues, advocate for change, or position your organization as a thought leader. We help clients draft compelling op-eds and place them in prominent media outlets, ensuring your voice is heard by the right audience. With our expertise, we ensure your opinions are framed clearly and persuasively, positioning you as an authority in your field.

Collaborate With a Premier Public Relations Firm 

By partnering with a trusted public relations firm, you can navigate the complexities of policy, crisis, and reputation management with confidence, knowing your message is in expert hands. Whether advocating for policy, managing a crisis, or building a reputation, Compass Public Relations ensures your message resonates across all channels, delivering the results you need. Call (443) 343-7143 today to learn how we can help you communicate effectively.

2025 Bills Impacting Maryland’s Small Businesses

Posted on by Compass Advocacy

Governor Wes Moore recently testified within the House Appropriations and Ways and Means Committee in support of the Budget Reconciliation and Financing Act of 2025. The Moore-Miller Administration claims this bill will grow Maryland’s economy, reform the tax code, as well as work to address the state’s fiscal struggles.

To what extent will this bill impact local businesses, and what are some additional bills that may support or hinder these local businesses? In his testimony, Moore states that this budget proposal cuts taxes for two-thirds of Marylanders and ensures that 82% of Marylanders either see a tax cut or no change. This appeal speculates on behalf of Marylanders’ small business as well.

Here are some additional bills introduced in the 2025 legislative session that are associated with small business growth, and specifically in areas such as cybersecurity, employee benefits, and procurement.

SB0760– The Better Small Business Employee Benefit Act of 2025

  • A bill that works to exempt certain requirements relating to health benefit plans for small employers.

HB1321- Income Tax-Credit for Cybersecurity Measures Undertaken by Small Businesses

  • A bill that would provide an income tax credit for various cybersecurity measures taken by small businesses.

SB0302– Maryland Small Business Innovation Research and Technology Transfer Incentive-Altercations

  • A bill that would provide incentives for small businesses through the Maryland Small Business Innovation, Research and Technology Transfer program.
Need help navigating the Maryland General Assembly? Our government relations and law team are here to help!
Posted in Law

President’s Day Reflections

Posted on by Compass Advocacy

On President’s Day, the U.S. recognizes and celebrates the Presidents that have shaped American history and the integrity of our nation. President’s Day allows us to reflect on the nuance of strategic leadership, and its many modes of implementation across federal, state and local governments.

Preserving U.S. democracy, however, requires legislators and political officials to remain in tune to public opinion. On a foundational level, public opinion can be measured through citizen satisfaction, or a lack thereof. When we begin to better understand disparities in favorability across governance, we can understand the changing dynamics of partisan politics and the affiliated policies.

A recent Pew Research Center study finds that after the 2024 election:

  • 69% of registered voters said the elections in their community were administered efficiently
  • 43% said the same about elections across the United States
    • 61% of U.S. adults had a favorable view of their government
    • 22% felt positively about the federal government.
These metrics have increased modestly from 2018:
  • 63% of voters said elections in their community were administered well
  • 21% felt the same about federal elections

By and large these statistics represent Americans connection to community, and policies that function on a micro scale, or resonate on a personal level. Education, healthcare, and crime are chief among these concerns.

At Compass Government Relations, we are committed to personalized advocacy whether that entails building meaningful relationships with legislators, tailoring your business needs for success, or fighting for urgent legislative change. If you need access to legislators or policymakers, at the local, state, or federal levels – we can get started today!

Understanding the Importance of State Advocacy Amid Federal Changes 

Posted on by Compass Advocacy

In January 2025, President Trump and his administration returned to the White House, with an urgent agenda to impose numerous executive orders on topics that regularly surfaced during the campaign trail. At the forefront of these policies are federal spending cuts, reductions in certain healthcare initiatives, redefining birth-right citizenship, the termination of DEI workforce programs, among more.

These new changes at the federal level have sparked concerns for various policy areas across state legislatures, and especially with Maryland. For Maryland to deliver on managing the budget deficit, reforming transformation networks, and mitigating climate casualties, the state will need to engage in advocacy efforts that can adapt to federal change.

State versus Federal Advocacy Differences: 

Understanding some general differences in state versus federal advocacy strategy is critical for recognizing the opportunities in each legislative body, and the levels of agency available in each chamber of government. In the state legislature, representatives operate within a compressed timeframe with fewer resources at their disposal in comparison to Congress. Thus, lobbyists and grassroot organizers must be proactive with their time by readily scheduling meetings with state officials, especially since state legislators are more accessible than Congressional members.

Moreover, state advocates explore policy issues across numerous counties and municipalities, while Congress functions on a larger scale by providing oversight to states, while also introducing legislation that is geared toward federal agencies or institutions. Therefore, state and federal advocates may employ alternative research methods, or public relations campaigns, to accommodate a specific audience, such as a constituency, a client, or to support demographic differences.

Moving Forward with Purpose: 

At Compass, we serve our clients at the state and federal level by taking a nuanced approach to government advocacy. We tailor our public relations outreach to contain personalized communication to meet client needs on an individual basis. Most importantly, Compass’ advocacy strategy is rooted in preparation and trust.

Finally, Compass Public Relations Partners is committed to staying in-tune with public opinion across all levels of government and remains invested in the strategic communications needed to yield tangible results for our clients during Maryland’s legislative session. While federal change may invoke uncertainty, there are political organizers at the state level, such as Compass, who bring consecutive years of experience in an ever-changing political landscape.

 

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3 Reasons Your Organization Definitely Needs a Business Lawyer

Posted on by Compass Advocacy

Starting a business is like walking a tightrope while juggling flaming swords—everything can go wrong, especially when legal stuff comes into play. Your business plan can’t do it all, but our savvy business lawyer can. Here’s how Compass Law can help you dodge legal disasters:

1. Contracts
Contracts are your business’s safety net. A lawyer makes sure they’re airtight and protect your interests. We can draft, review, and even negotiate contracts to keep your clients, vendors, and employees in check, including:

  • Client contracts
  • Vendor contracts
  • Employment contracts
  • Leases
  • Mergers & acquisitions

2. Employment Law
Hiring isn’t as simple as posting a job on Craigslist. Employment laws are complex, but Compass Law can keep you compliant. We can help with wage laws, employee handbooks, and fair hiring practices.

3. Business Formation
Choosing the right business structure is like picking your superhero alter ego. Whether it’s an LLC, corporation, or partnership, a lawyer helps you choose what suits your needs (and protects your personal assets).

Even if you’re a small startup, working with a business lawyer is an investment that’ll save you headaches. Call us at (240) 560-3030, and let’s get you on the path to success without any legal nightmares.

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Posted in Law

Maryland 2025 Session Preview

Posted on by Compass Advocacy

As Maryland prepares for its 2025 legislative session, there’s much to anticipate: the budget as the main issue at hand, vacant seats in the legislature, and potential impacts of the Trump administration in Maryland. We’ll also provide updates on neighboring states, Delaware and Pennsylvania, with insights from Alex.

Be sure to check out the session calendar and mark your calendars for our Maryland Day Party!

“The General Assembly will have to tackle a significant budget shortfall which amounts to $1 billion in the current fiscal year, $2.7 billion in the next fiscal year, and will continue to grow from there. With the Moore Administration resistant to tax increases, we can expect some difficult budget decisions to be made with respect to spending cuts and legislature-led tax measures. Many things are on the table including a sales tax on services and corporate tax reform.” – Tyler Bennett

 

“The election of State Senator Sarah Elfreth to the US House of Representatives, leaves an open seat in the State Senate. Both Delegate Dana Jones and Delegate Shaneka Henson have indicated their interest in moving to the Senate. The Anne Arundel Democratic Central Committee will decide in the next several weeks which delegate will get the Senate seat. This also means that a seat will open up in the Maryland House of Delegates when one of the two candidates gets the nod. Stay tuned to Compass for developments and changes in the Maryland legislature.” – Hannah Garagiola

 

“There is currently uncertainty surrounding several key issues that could impact Maryland’s future. Presently, there is uncertainty about whether the federal government will fully fund the Key Bridge project. Additionally, the fate of federal renewable energy funding for states remains uncertain. Another question is whether the FBI Headquarters will still relocate to Maryland as previously planned. There are concerns about potential reductions to the federal workforce, which will have trickle down fiscal impacts to Maryland’s state budget.” – Rob Garagiola

 

DE & PA 2025 Items to Watch – Alex Shull McKitrick

  • Inauguration Day – January 21st, 2025 Matt Meyer will be sworn in as Delaware’s 75th Governor
  • Delaware Renewable Energy is likely to be a hot topic. Items like energy storage, the state’s RPS goals, and solar siting are all be discussed by leadership
  • Criminal Justice and Health Care costs are also likely to be front of mind for the Delaware legislature
  • The Pennsylvania Legislature remains split down party lines for 2025 making it challenging to pass legislation.
  • Pennsylvania Mass transit funding
  • Pennsylvania Cannabis Legalization
  • Pennsylvania Games of Skill Regulation and Taxation
Save the Date:
March 25th
Compass 4th Annual Maryland Day Reception

 

Empower Your Organization’s Advocacy with Action Alerts

Posted on by Compass Advocacy

As the new legislative session approaches, now is the perfect time to equip your organization with public relations services to enhance its advocacy efforts. One of the most effective ways to drive change and make your voice heard is through Action Alerts. With shifting policy priorities, tightening legislative timelines, and increased pressure on lawmakers to respond to constituent input, timely advocacy has never been more important. In today’s rapidly changing political climate, organizations that act early and mobilize effectively are more likely to shape outcomes that align with their mission.

At Compass Public Relations, we bring together consultants, creatives, and policy experts who are passionate about solving the challenges that matter most. Serving clients across the Mid-Atlantic region, we operate at the intersection of business and government, supporting everything from grassroots coalition building to strategic content development. Contact Compass Public Relations today to learn how we can support your next big initiative.

What Are Action Alerts?

Action Alerts are a crucial part of any advocacy strategy, enabling organizations to reach out directly to their supporters with personalized emails and texts. This direct line of communication creates an efficient and impactful way to rally your network around specific legislative concerns, whether you’re pushing for or against a bill, urging lawmakers to consider a policy change, or rallying support for your cause.

For example, an Action Alert might read: “Ask your senator to vote YES on HB1234 to protect funding for local public health initiatives.” Supporters can click a link in an email or text to quickly send a pre-filled message to their elected officials—making engagement simple, fast, and effective.

Why You Should Tailor Your Messaging

At Compass Public Relations, we understand that effective advocacy requires more than just sending out a message — it’s about mobilizing your members and ensuring they feel empowered to take action. Our tailored campaigns make sure your messaging resonates with your audience, ensuring their engagement with the issues that matter most.

By crafting customized Action Alerts that emphasize urgency and outline clear next steps, we help your members feel confident and empowered to take meaningful action. This personalized approach ensures every recipient understands not only why the issue is important, but also how their voice can directly influence the outcome.

Mobilize Now With Action Alerts and Public Relations Services

Don’t wait for the issues to become critical — public relations services can help you act now to ensure your organization is prepared to make the most of the upcoming session. With personalized, targeted campaigns that engage your supporters, Compass Public Relations will help you elevate your influence on policy and public opinion. Contact Compass Public Relations today to get started!

 

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Polling Campaigns: Understanding Public Opinion for Informed Policy Decisions

Posted on by Compass Advocacy

Today, understanding public opinion is more critical than ever. At Compass Public Relations Partners, we specialize in this vital area by designing comprehensive questionnaires, collecting data, and providing insightful analyses of the results.

The Importance of Polling
Polling plays a crucial role in capturing the pulse of the public on specific topics and issues. Our team employs a variety of methodologies, including phone call surveys, text surveys, mail-in questionnaires, and online polls. This diverse range of information-collection methods allows us to gather data from a wide cross-section of the population, ensuring that our insights reflect the views of different demographic groups.

Analyzing the Data
Once the data is collected, our team conducts a thorough analysis to extract valuable insights. We don’t just present the numbers; we interpret the findings and identify action items.

Strategic Advocacy
Understanding public sentiment helps shape advocacy strategies and ensures that initiatives align with the priorities of the community. By leveraging our polling services, organizations can formulate effective strategies that enhance their engagement with stakeholders and drive positive change.
At Compass Public Relations, we believe that understanding public opinion is essential for successful policymaking and advocacy. If you’re looking to gain insights into public opinion, we’re here to help you navigate the landscape.

 

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