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?....

Thou Doth Protest Too Much

I find myself more than skeptical of the Rocket's recent protests that he has been ridden roughshod over by the Mitchell Report. When the Sox released Roger, he had worn out his welcome in Boston, winning only 11 games in his last season at the Fens, and thought by most to be in the twilight of his career. He was portly, out of shape, and sporting a delivery worth of a Junior Varsity player. Only after landing in Toronto did he return to the mound sporting a physique not seen since his high school days playing Texas ball, and hurling 97 mph fastballs on his way to Hall of Fame status. A trend that continued while in pinstripes. To believe Roger, it is merely coincidence.

At least Andy Pettitte had the balls to come clean.

Cleanliness is Next to Godliness

I represent a fair number of landlords in Hartford County and a recurring problem I hear is that the tenants fail to maintain the apartment in a clean and habitable condition. The high degree of squalor that my clients recount to me frequently comes to light only on the post move out inspection. Keep in mind this pointed reminder from our friends at the Landlord Protection Agency when interviewing a propsective tenant. A well placed call to a previous landlord goes a long ways towards heading off problems later on.