Nursing Home Lawyer in Baltimore, MD

As a nursing home lawyer in Baltimore, MD from Brown Kiely, LLP knows, when placing a senior loved one into a nursing home, we often hope they are treated well but may not be entirely sure. We know that nursing home abuse happens, but rarely do we actually imagine coming face-to-face with the situation ourselves. If you arent sure whether your senior relative could be suffering from abuse, here are red flags that you must not ignore: 

Are there bad reviews or awsuits against the facility?

Do your research and look into reviews for the facility and whether they have past or current lawsuits. Further, examine to see if the nature of these lawsuits have anything to do with resident mistreatment. If so, you may want to choose another facility entirely to remove your relative from the nursing home as soon as possible.

Is the environment loud and chaotic?

Nursing homes should be places where residents can relax and not feel stressed out. If you visit the facility and it’s loud and chaotic, this may point to a lack of staffing issue. Phones that go unanswered, equipment that appears old, and other excessively noisy factors may not be a suitable environment for an aging loved one.

Does the facility look dirty and unkempt?

A nursing home with debri on the floor, clothing piles laying around, a bad smell in the air, or appearing otherwise unkempt may be a cause for alarm. If staff cannot keep the facility clean, then how are they supposed to attend to patients with the attention they deserve? 

Do the residents appear lost or agitated?

As your MD nursing home lawyer in Baltimore may mention, anxiety, depression, disorientation, and confusion are all symptoms of potential nursing home abuse and neglect. If you observe these behaviors to be common among residents, it may point to a problem within the facility operations and level of care being offered. 

Does your loved one have symptoms?

If your senior relative is exhibiting symptoms such as personality changes, unexplained injuries, bedsores, emotional outbursts, or other signs that something just isn’t right, we advise following this gut feeling and getting help from law enforcement and a reputable law firm right away.

As a nursing home lawyer in Baltimore, MD from Brown Kiely, LLP would agree with, anyone who suspects their loved one is being mistreated must take action immediately to reduce the chances of them becoming a victim to abuse.

Litigation Law Firm in Washington, DC

The legal professionals from our litigation law firm in Washington, DC at Brown Kiely, LLP understand that litigation can be a time-consuming, stressful, and expensive thing for any business to go through. We know that most business owners want to prevent this from happening to their business at all costs. If you have been sued or plan to file a lawsuit against someone else, you should try to respond as quickly as possible, to prevent profit loss and a tarnished reputation in the community. 

One of the main reasons businesses enter litigation is because of a contract disagreement or breach. When one or more parties doesn’t hold up their end of the bargain in a contract, a dispute is likely to ensue. Business owners who want to reduce the chances of litigation over a contract issue are encouraged to examine the following Q&A:

What is an element that all contracts should have?

Establishing clear and concise terms in the written agreement will be paramount in preventing litigation. It is not rare for even the most seasoned parties to enter into an agreement that is riddled with inconsistent and confusing terms. Don’t let the factors of price and product be the only aspects you focus on when signing a contract. Every contract should be to-the-point, and not have vague or incomprehensible wording.

What if I cannot fulfill my part of an agreement?

Even the most well-intentioned party may realize that they cannot fulfill their part of the agreement. When this happens, it’s best to communicate early on about what’s happening, and offer a plan to the other parties about how you want to make it up to them. Those in the contract may be frustrated at the news, but they are less likely to respond in outrage if you present possible solutions.

Is there a way to negotiate without going to court?

If all parties in the dispute are prepared to work together and compromise, then a mediator may be useful. This person will not decide the outcome, but instead guides the negotiation in a way that is tactful and professional. Mediators are trained to help people resolve various issues and achieve solutions that are mutually beneficial. Mediation may not be an appropriate resource for every situation, but it should at least be considered. 

Brown Kiely, LLP Is Ready To Help

If you are going through a contract dispute, or feel one approaching, then it’s in the best interest of your business to get support right away. Our Washington, DC litigation law firm is experienced in business litigation, and we hope you consider reaching out to a Brown Kiely, LLP today for the assistance you need.

Law Firm in Bethesda, MD

Those who have questions about their personal injury case often turn to our law firm in Bethesda, MD at Brown Kiely, LLP for assistance. Our team is seasoned in personal injury law, and find reward in being a legal resource for those in need of support. When meeting with clients, we may be asked questions about the discovery process in particular. Here we have aimed to answer these inquiries, but don’t hesitate to contact our law firm for advice that is specific to your circumstances.

What exactly is the discovery process?

The discovery process is a normal step for both lawyers and their clients. This stage is important in gathering information about a case, and allows both parties to learn what information each side has, in addition to revealing evidence that will be used to assess the verdict. Discovery helps your lawyer prepare for the case, understand all the elements contributing to the lawsuit, and can be influential in obtaining a settlement.

What information will be gathered during interrogatories?

Our Bethesda, MD law firm team has experience handling interrogatories, where both parties will have to answer questions provided by the other. Each inquiry must be answered honestly and fully to the best of that person’s knowledge. The answers in the interrogatories will be bound under oath. Examples of details you may be asked to provide include:

• Contact information
• Insurance coverage and limits
• Personal account of how the incident happened
• Identity of expert witnesses for the case
• Identity of witnesses
• Evidence related to the case
• Medical treatment, lost wages, and other damages

Documents that may be requested from the other party and his or her legal team include medical records, doctor’s notes, employment records, damage reports, police reports, and photographs or video of the scene. Furthermore, you may receive or submit a request for admissions, which presents allegations and the party will have to admit or deny each in the series. 

What if the case doesn’t get settled?

A lawsuit that doesn’t get resolved through negotiations may have to be settled in court instead. It is imperative for the outcome of the case to have a legal team who is well-versed in personal injury law specifically. If your case doesn’t get settled, we can prepare you for a courtroom experience so that you feel more empowered and confident about the process.

Contact Brown Kiely, LLP

If you have a personal injury case that needs legal attention, we urge you to call our office now for assistance. The professionals from our law firm in Bethesda, MD at Brown Kiely, LLP are ready to take your call, and learn more about how we can be of help during this time. 

 

Business law is a broad term and encompasses multiple areas of specialization for lawyers. Companies should consider laws and regulations governing businesses throughout each phase of the lifecycle of the entity. Check out the information below on several types of business law.

Antitrust Law

Antitrust laws promote competition in business markets and seek to prevent monopolization of any given market. Although as a business entity it is enticing to control as much of your market share as possible, you must ensure that any actions you take do not violate any antitrust laws.

Contract Law

Companies can enter into any number of contracts in the course of conducting business. Drafting, reviewing, and signing contracts all need to be completed following relevant contract laws. Contract attorneys may be able to assist a company with their contract needs and protect a business’s interests in the negotiation process.

Immigration Law

Although immigration law may seem unrelated to business law on the surface, it can actually be crucial for a business to understand these laws if they plan to employ immigrants. Knowing what documentation immigrants must present in order to work in the country is essential to the health of a business entity. Ignorance is no excuse for violating immigration laws and your business could face hefty fines or closure if you don’t document your workers legally. Consider an immigration lawyer from a law firm like Law Group of Iowa to assist with immigration-related issues. 

Intellectual Property Law

Intellectual property could be any number of intangible items such as copyrights, trademarks, works of art, and more. Businesses that possess intellectual property need to protect that property. Further, companies should be careful not to infringe upon the intellectual property of others. Lawyers with experience in intellectual property law may be able to assist companies in protecting their intellectual property.

Tax Law

Businesses, like individuals, are responsible for paying federal, state, and local taxes. Additionally, companies must calculate employee wage taxes. Navigating tax law can be complicated, and an attorney may be able to assist businesses throughout this process.

Bankruptcy Law

Although no company dreams of finding itself in the midst of filing for bankruptcy, the truth is that it does happen. A business attorney may be able to help your business determine whether it needs to file for bankruptcy, or if there are other options available to get through a tough financial time.

Estate Planning Lawyer

Estate planning is something that many people neglect to do. Numerous people also do not wish to think about this kind of document and the circumstances that accompany it. However, it will make things significantly easier for next of kin, family members, or others who are close to you or a loved one. When someone passes away without an estate plan in place it can make things especially tricky and stressful for family members. That’s why it is advised to make a comprehensive and detailed estate plan to help loved ones out during the very difficult time of death. 

What’s Can an Estate Plan Do?  

An estate plan has many different facets and things that can be done because of it. Critical healthcare decisions about what to do when someone falls ill and cannot make decisions anymore can be included in the plan. That way someone who is trusted to make decisions in the best interest of the person who has fallen ill can take care of important financial items or other matters. If you or a loved one happen to pass away, 

the estate plan can also dictate who receives certain assets or other things. 

Documents Typically in an Estate Plan

Some of the more common documents that are generally included in an estate plan include wills, living wills, powers of attorney, and more. If you or a loved one would like to learn more about estate planning and the documents to include, then consider discussing these matters with an estate planning lawyer. Lawyers from a firm like this one have plenty of experience with drafting estate plans and ensuring their clients are set up in the best way possible for the future. 

Questions to Ask Your Estate Planner About

It’s important to ask the important questions to an estate planner or estate planning lawyer who will be working on your or your loved one’s behalf. Make sure to ask them about their experience and the different kinds of clients they have helped. Discuss such matters with them like how long it takes to set up the plan, the number of assets that they have dealt with for other clients, the experience they have had with the families of the loved one that passed away, and any other questions that you think are relevant to your plan. Estate plans can be tricky and it’s easy to overlook a simple detail. That’s why it is advised to seek help from legal counsel who has experience with this type of thing. 

Estate Lawyer

When you think of creating a plan for your estate after your death, most people think of a will. However, as an estate lawyer from a firm like W.B. Moore Law can explain, many people do not realize that there is more involved in creating an estate plan than a simple will.

There are a few key things that a will cannot do. For these matters, you will need to make extra plans. Keep reading to learn two of the most crucial issues a will does not cover.

Wills Do Not Specify Burial Instructions

Funeral wishes are a common issue that many people do not understand. There are two problems with including burial and funeral plans in your will: First, the law does not consider a body as property. Because of this, it cannot legally be considered part of your estate. While it isn’t illegal to include your wishes in your will, no one must enforce them.

Another reason this is tricky is that probate lawyers do not usually examine wills until after a funeral occurs. If you only put your burial instructions in this document, your loved ones may not know what you want until after the funeral has already happened.

Instead, consider creating a “Final Arrangements” document to add to your will. This second document is separate from your will. It outlines all your wishes, such as burial or cremation, final resting place, and ceremony details. Make sure you sign, date, and label it.

Wills Do Not Include Certain Assets

The distribution of your assets is another area that can be confusing when estate planning. Many people assume that their will takes care of all their money, property, and belongings. Unfortunately, that may not be the case.

Some assets already include beneficiary information that overrules a will. For example, bank accounts in joint names with someone else will become the other person’s upon your death. Other investments and funds with a named beneficiary already built into their terms supersede what you write in your will. Retirement plans and life insurance policies are typical examples of this.

If most of your estate contains property and assets you share with others, you need to plan ahead. Review your named beneficiaries frequently. Be sure that any other arrangements are a good match for everything else in your estate plan.

Plan Ahead

A will is an excellent way to let people know what you want after your death. But it should not be your only plan. For extra considerations not covered in a will, consult an experienced attorney.

The #1 tax Debt Collection Strategy: Harassing Robocalls

Any person who has picked up their buzzing phone with a hello and heard only a fake voice on the line, has probably experienced a robocall. Now more than ever before, debt collectors are using robocalls as the number one way to get in touch with consumers who owe money. However, how a debt collection agency uses robocalls can violate the rights of consumers. Sadly, not many consumers are aware that these robocalls can break state and federal laws. Robocalls may become so irritating, that a person starts researching how to prevent such calls from coming through. A tax debt lawyer such as Chorches Bankruptcy Law can help you understand how robocalls break state and federal laws better. Contact your local tax debt lawyer New Haven, CT for further guidance.

Why may a debt collector use harassment as a way to contact a consumer?

A debt collection agency may use a variety of not-so-pleasant strategies for luring in consumers. An agency may use harassment as a way to pressure a person enough to make a payment, if for no other reason than out of pure annoyance. A debt collector may call a consumer several times per day, and leave voicemails that are both unprofessional and untrue. For example, a debt collector robocall may leave a voicemail message that threatens the consumer will be arrested if they do not make a payment as soon as possible. In reality, this is most likely just a scare tactic to get the person to pay up. 

In what other ways could I be harassed by a debt collector?

Aside from threatening phone calls, a debt collector may use the following methods to reach a consumer for overdue payments. While a debt collector may be able to contact a person regarding debts, there are rules and regulations that an agency must abide by. If you are impacted by any of the types of harassment listed below, you may want to reach out to a legal professional for advice: 

• Robocalls being sent repeatedly every day, multiple times per day
• Using language or a tone of voice that is aggressive, degrading or profane
• Sending robocalls during hours to intentionally disturb the consumer (early morning, around dinner time, and/or very late at night)
• Contacting the consumer’s place of work demanding payment
• Attempting to gather more information about the consumer through a third party
• Disregarding verbal and/or written statements revoking consent to be contacted
• Ignoring verbal and/or written requests to have the debts verified

What can I do to stop these robocalls from coming in?

A consumer may have tried contacting the debt collector to cease the robocalls, either through written form or over the phone. A debt collection agency may simply ignore this request, out of assumption that a consumer does not have the time or energy to take legal action. 

Is it possible to receive financial compensation for the major inconvenience?

Yes, if you decide to file a lawsuit against the debt collector for unlawful robocalls, you may be able to receive monetary compensation from the agency. How much a person is awarded, can depend on how much evidence is brought forward. A person may be paid for every time a debt collector sent a robocall illegally to the consumer’s cell phone. 

Victims of sexual harassment can often feel powerless, especially if it occurs in the workplace. Many victims have even been told that they should keep quiet about their harassment because there’s not much else they can do. However, a victim of sexual harassment can do a lot to end their problem, which would include both formal steps with lawsuits or informal steps at workplace. 

Step 1: Say Something

In some situations of sexual harassment in the workplace, the harasser may not be aware that what they are doing is offensive to you. If you have been the victim of the treatment, the first step you should take is to let the person offending you know that you believe their actions are offensive. In many instances, this will end the problem and the harassment will stop because they did not mean to hurt you or do not want any more tension in the workplace. If the harassment does not end once you have spoken to the offending party, you will need to take further action. 

Step 2: Follow Your Company’s Protocol

If the offensive behavior does not end once you have said something, you should look to see if your company has a protocol for dealing with sexual harassment in the workplace. If they do, you should ensure that you are following it exactly and pay attention to any time limits listed in the policy. If your company does not have any procedures on how to report sexual harassment, you should tell your immediate supervisor about the harassment. If you are being sexually harassed by your supervisor, you should go to your supervisor’s supervisor to report it. It is very important for your company’s management team to know that the harassment is taking place. It is also very important to keep records of when the harassment happens, any complaints you have made, and any incidents that are related to the sexual harassment. 

Step 3: Administrative Charge

If the harassment still does not stop after using your company’s procedures and you intend to further pursue the treatment, you will then have to file an administrative charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or your state’s civil rights agency. The agency will look into your claim and try to solve the issue by working with your company. If they are unable to solve your problem and they find that your claim is valid, they will issue a “right to sue” document which allows you to take the case to court. 

Step 4: Litigation

If you have been given a letter stating you are able to sue, you can file a civil case for any injuries you may have suffered because of the sexual harassment. There do not need to be any physical injuries. Most of the time the injuries sustained in these types of cases are emotional. If you win your civil lawsuit, you may receive:

• Up to three times the back pay if you lost money or missed a raise
• Lost fringe benefits
• Compensation for emotional distress
• Your company being required to have policies or training to stop harassment
• Reinstatement if you lost your job

If you or someone you know is being harassed at work, contact a lawyer, like a employment litigation lawyer Washington, DC from Eric Siegel Law, to set up a consultation today. 

Needing legal help but not having the money to pay for it is a legal dilemma that many people are faced with. It’s no secret that hiring an experienced attorney can require a significant financial commitment. Attorneys are highly skilled professionals who focus on upholding your rights and getting you the fair treatment you deserve. They are a valuable resource when you find yourself in legal trouble. The good news is that there are ways to obtain these services even if you are not in a position to pay steep fees.

 

Legal Aid

If you can’t afford to pay for an attorney, you’re not alone. Many people, both plaintiffs and defendants, don’t have the financial resources to pay a lawyer’s hourly rate and the other fees that come with civil lawsuits and criminal cases. To help individuals in your shoes, there are legal aid options available. These services usually operate through grants or private donations. The service will provide an attorney at a reduced rate or even free of charge to take your case. You will likely have to prove that you qualify for such financial assistance. Legal aid options exist in law firms and through legal clinics.

 

Talk to the State Bar Association

The bar association in your state could provide some helpful resources in finding affordable legal help. The organization can refer you to certain attorneys or firms who have reduced fees.

 

Look for Pro Bono Options

Many lawyers do a certain amount of pro bono work every year. This means the attorney will donate his or her time to help you with your case. For the attorney, it’s a good way to build a reputation and gain experience. For you, it’s an ideal opportunity to get competent help without having to put yourself in a bad financial position.

 

Court-Appointed Attorney

If you are a defendant, you have the legal right to an attorney. If you can’t afford to pay one, the court will provide a public defender for you. You will not have to pay this attorney for his or her services. Some people think a public defender is an inferior option. However, court-appointed attorneys have experience and skill in civil and criminal matters.

 

Do not let financial problems stand in your way of pursuing legal action or in defending your interests. There are ways to get the help you need. Some of these even come at no cost. Contact a  lawyer, like a personal injury lawyer from Darrell Castle & Associates, to see what kind of options they have available for payment in a case. 

Many small business owners take on a venture to fulfill a lifelong dream or to carry on the tradition of a family-owned business. While some small businesses enjoy success, others are not as fortunate. The realization that a small business is failing is often a difficult pill to swallow, which makes the decision to close up shop and even file for bankruptcy a particularly hard one to make. However, it is important to keep in mind that filing for bankruptcy can be a positive choice. It can reduce stress, address financial concerns, provide peace of mind, and even allow for a fresh start.

Bankruptcy Options

When filing for bankruptcy as a small business, there are three options available as to what type of bankruptcy to file. A business’s structure will determine which type of bankruptcy for which it is eligible.

• Chapter 7 – If the business is a corporation, LLC, partnership, or sole proprietorship, it is likely eligible to file for Chapter 7 protection. In a sole proprietorship, the owner will also have to file for bankruptcy protection.
• Chapter 13 – If the business is a sole proprietorship, it is eligible to file for Chapter 13 protection, and the owner will have to file for bankruptcy as well.
• Chapter 11 – Businesses that are a corporation, LLC, partnership, or sole proprietorship, can file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. Again, in the case of a sole proprietorship, the owner will also have to file for protection.

Beyond that, the specific type the business will choose to file will depend on the particular circumstances of the case, including a main focus on the cause of the business’s debt and financial problems. An experienced bankruptcy attorney will be able to advise a small business owner on which type of bankruptcy protection will best meet their needs.

• Chapter 7 – This option would be ideal for debtors who cannot afford or do not think it would be financially wise to restructure their debts to continue their business. A trustee would be appointed, and assets would be sold to pay creditors to the extent possible.
• Chapter 13 – This would be an option to include a reorganizing and restructuring of the business’s and business owner’s debts, subject to certain debt limits.
• Chapter 11 – This option would be available to those business owners who wish to reorganize, but whose debt limits may exceed those eligible under Chapter 13 bankruptcy.

Seeking Knowledgeable Legal Bankruptcy Assistance

In light of the complexities that can arise in bankruptcy cases involving small businesses, it is advisable to consult with an experienced bankruptcy attorney about your options. A skilled lawyer can listen to the facts of your particular case and guide you by choosing the bankruptcy option that is most beneficial to you. Contact a lawyer today to schedule a free and confidential consultation with a bankruptcy attorney in Memphis.