This Bears Rebroadcasting...

My friend in the solo trenches, Susan Cartier Liebel, has an article in her blog today that is worth a read. The Connecticut Statewide Greivance panel, that entity which oversees those of us lawyering on your behlaf, implemented strict regulations on lawyer advertising back in July 2007. The impact is just now beginning to shake out , but be aware that the words we convey to you are being watched, and in some cases altered, by those that think they know more than you do about making your own decsions....

No Such Thing As a Free Lunch?

This week's Connecticut Law Tribune is reporting that lawyers are coming under increasing scrutiny for answering questions on line in such venues as blogs, Linked In, Myspace and other social networking sites. The harm, it seems, is that in the even a member of the public reads something the lawyer has written, and then acts upon it, with unforseen adverse results, then the lawyer has opened him or herself up to a malpractice claim.

My opinion? This is freakin' nuts. Do we really need to tell people that they are not our client just because we answer their question on a blog or forum? I'm literally sitting here shaking my head in disbelief with how messed up things have gotten in this country.

Sad, sad, sad...

On the Road Again

Connecticut State employees that are placed in harm's way on an almost daily basis have always been given special status under Connecticut Worker's Compensation Law. One such group is Corrections Officers who are often exposed to the danger of physical harm on a daily basis.
In a right thing to do gesture, regulations have been implemented effective December 20, 2007 to expand the worker's compensation protections to Correctional Officers called into work from home. The benefits of the Connecticut Worker's Comp laws begin at such time as the officer leaves his or her home.

For a more detailed discussion of this new regulation, or for a discussion of any worker's compensation issue, feel free to call me at 860-523-8783. I would be glad to speak with you.

I love dogs, I really do. I have a 125 pound Newfoundland and an 11 pound miniature dachshund to prove it. But when it comes to dog bites, I tend to agree with the rule in Connecticut that it's one bite and you're out.

Connecticut has what is called strict liability when it comes to dog bites. That means unless the person who was bitten was in some way "tormenting or teasing" the dog, then if they get bit, you are going to pay. And pay dearly you may. In this case the the award was $200,000 for bites sustained by a Bridgeport physician's assistant at the jaws of her neighbor's unrestrained pit bull.

There is no excuse for anything like that happening. If you own or keep a dog, especailly one that may have a tendency to bite, then you owe it to the public at large to keep the dog secured. If you don't and someone gets hurt, the next call you make better be to your homeowner's insurance company's claims department.

On This Most Special Day

We stop and take some time to be with those who are nearest and dearest to us. From all of us at the Law Offices of James F. Aspell, P.C., we wish you a safe and merry Christmas. You my clients and friends are the best present anyone could ever wish for. Thank you for being in my life.

A Word About Real Estate Transactions

Recently, a $700,000 settlement was disclosed concerning an alleged kick back scheme between a prominent Farmington law firm, a realtor and a mortgage company.

As a consumer, the take away message for you, is that your closing is a commodity like so many other things, and it behooves you to pay attention to what you are being charged and to compare fees and costs of various attorneys. My particular office charges a flat fee of $600 to buy a home, $500 to refinance, and $450 to handle a sale. In most instances, I am also issuing a title insurance policy which is required by virtually all mortgage banking institutions. I receive a commission on that premium as do all attorneys. Any additional charges would be clearly explained to you by me personally at the time they are incurred. I am available by phone to answer any questions about costs you may incur in your next real estate transaction. I would love to speak with you.

You Have The Right To Remain Silent

On those days when your ceremonial office happens to go up in smoke, even the slightest appearance of foul play may be grounds for a criminal investigation. When in doubt, remain silent and by all means call me. Well...Dick???...I'm waiting?....