CASA of Travis County empowers trained volunteers to advocate for children’s safety, well-being and long-term stability in court and in the community. The organization works toward its vision of providing quality advocacy, a safe home and a promising future for every child in Travis County. 

Kimbrough, a Texas attorney whose firm focuses on divorce and family law matters, will support CASA’s mission through board service, community engagement and advocacy for children and families navigating complex legal and personal challenges.

“CASA’s work matters because every child deserves someone who will show up, listen closely and speak up for what they need,” Kimbrough said. “I am honored to serve on the board and support an organization that helps children move toward a stronger future.”

In 2025, CASA of Travis County served 982 children with the support of 560 assigned volunteers. CASA reported that 96% of its recommendations were ordered by a judge or negotiated or agreed upon before a hearing.

CASA of Travis County has served the community for more than 40 years. In 2022, the organization reached its long-standing goal of accepting all case assignments from the court and is now appointed automatically to all newly filed child abuse or neglect cases in Travis County.

Through Kimbrough Family Law, Kimbrough has built a practice focused on legal strategy, clear client communication and advocacy for families facing major transitions. Her work with custody, parental rights and child-related legal issues gives her a direct connection to CASA’s mission and the needs of children whose lives intersect with the court system. 

CASA of Travis County continues to seek new volunteers, with a current need for bilingual volunteers. Individuals interested in volunteering can visit www.casatravis.org/volunteer or RSVP for an information session at www.casatravis.org/infosession. Donations can be made at www.casatravis.org/donate.

According to the wrongful death complaint, Carle suffered severe neglect during her time at the facility, including multiple preventable falls and inadequate supervision. The lawsuit alleged that staff failed to properly monitor residents with dementia and high fall risks, failed to implement appropriate fall prevention measures or provide sufficient assistance with daily living activities, and delayed obtaining emergency medical care as Carle’s health deteriorated.

“While no award can undo their loss, we are honored to have stood with Lily’s family as they fought for accountability after an unimaginable loss. Our clients sought accountability for a death they believe could have been prevented with proper care and attention,” said Spencer Payne, Esq., founding partner of Moore Payne Law and lead counsel on the case. “What is especially troubling is that the evidence showed Lily’s case was not an isolated failure. This facility had prior warning signs involving the safety of memory care residents, yet the same types of preventable lapses continued, and inadequate insurance coverage at facilities like this is a pattern that raises serious questions about accountability.”

The case comes amid broader scrutiny of safety practices and staffing challenges within assisted living and memory care facilities in Florida and across the U.S. The Waverly recently faced public attention following separate reported incidents involving memory care residents, including the death of an 83-year-old dementia patient who allegedly wandered undetected from his room and was found dead in the facility’s walk-in freezer. These tragedies highlight a pattern of severe lapses in resident supervision, safety protocols, and accountability at The Waverly and other long-term care facilities. 

Both attorneys Payne and founding partner Geoff Moore, Esq. are passionate advocates for systemic change in nursing home reform and are active in state government efforts to expand the rights of nursing home residents. The firm motto, “Big Injuries, Big Justice, Bigger Purpose,” drives Moore Payne Law’s mission to effect change both through results for their clients and accountability of big businesses and insurance companies.

Moore Payne Law is currently accepting new clients and offers free consultations to help individuals understand their rights and legal options. For more information or to schedule a consultation, please visit moorepaynelaw.com or call 407-216-1000.

CASE INFORMATION

Sixth Judicial District – Pasco County, FL
The Estate of Lily Carle, by and through Stephanie Baerkland, Personal Representative, V. Wellness Center of Trinity, LLC d/b/a The Waverly
Case No. 2025-CA-000530

“As one of the fastest growing ADR firms in the country, we are continually evolving, and that means enhancing not only the services we offer clients, but how we serve our clients,” says Parag Shah, CEO of Miles. “Our new website and Adira, our new case management platform, will make it easier for clients to find the right neutral for their cases, check neutral availability, schedule mediations, access case information, and explore other services — all in one streamlined, easy-to-use place.”

The upgrades include the following features:

• Improved search functionality
  Find the right neutral for your case more quickly, with better filtering and more intuitive results.
• Real-time neutral availability
  View and compare availability instantly — so scheduling takes less time.
• Expanded access to Miles’ services
  Easily explore and book services like ADR OnDemand, arbitration, special master appointments, and private trials — all in one place.
• Simplified document handling
  Upload, access, and manage case materials more efficiently to our encrypted, secure platform.
• Practice development tools

Access to thought leadership, continuing legal education courses, and other resources to help you thrive in your legal practice.

“The idea behind these enhancements is simple: to provide an exceptional experience to the clients we serve, leaving them free to focus on their cases, and their own clients,” adds Shah. “And we look forward to continuing to respond to our clients’ needs as Miles expands.”

Developed through the combined lens of metropolitan law enforcement experience, adult learning systems, curriculum analysis, and organizational review, the Police Praxis framework focuses on a recurring institutional issue increasingly visible within modern constitutional litigation: the distinction between documented training activity and the operational capacity of an organization’s underlying training structure.

In many police-related civil actions, municipalities and public entities may present policy manuals, lesson plans, academy materials, training rosters, and administrative records as evidence that personnel received instruction regarding constitutional obligations and operational procedures. Police Praxis examines the broader institutional questions surrounding those records, including whether the surrounding instructional environment demonstrates meaningful organizational continuity, administrative coordination, supervisory integration, and implementation integrity.

“A training record may document that instruction occurred,” Loglisci stated. “The more difficult institutional question is whether the organizational system surrounding that instruction possessed the structural integrity necessary to support what an agency later suggests its personnel were prepared to execute operationally.”

Examining the Institutional System Beneath the Record

In complex Section 1983 and Monell litigation, discovery frequently produces extensive collections of policies, directives, attendance records, lesson plans, internal memoranda, and training materials. While these records may document institutional activity, they do not necessarily establish how instructional decisions were made, how curriculum standards were maintained, how supervisory expectations were reinforced, or how organizational deficiencies were identified and addressed over time.

Police Praxis approaches police training as an interconnected administrative structure rather than a series of isolated classroom events. The framework examines whether organizational systems surrounding police training activity demonstrate coherent alignment between administrative expectations, documented instruction, institutional oversight, and operational implementation.

Rather than concentrating exclusively on individual officer conduct or subjective intent, the framework shifts analytical attention toward institutional systems, organizational design, and administrative continuity. Its purpose is not to provide legal conclusions or advocacy positions, but to assist licensed counsel in examining whether a law enforcement organization’s documented training structure reflects meaningful organizational alignment across the broader institution.

For licensed counsel navigating high-volume constitutional litigation, the framework is intended to assist in isolating institutional training issues that may otherwise remain buried within expansive administrative productions. By organizing attention around structural training questions, organizational continuity, and documented implementation practices, the framework may help attorneys develop more focused lines of inquiry regarding policymaker oversight, institutional notice, administrative follow-through, and broader patterns of organizational response relevant to municipal liability analysis.

The framework further recognizes that modern police training environments increasingly operate through layered administrative systems involving digital learning platforms, evolving policy structures, distributed instructional materials, supervisory review mechanisms, and institution-wide implementation responsibilities. As those systems become more administratively complex, evaluating institutional preparedness may require analytical review extending beyond traditional document production alone.

“Artificial intelligence systems can summarize records, organize policies, and process large quantities of administrative data,” Loglisci said. “What they cannot independently replicate is lived institutional understanding developed through years inside complex organizational systems where curriculum, supervision, operational culture, administrative decision-making, and implementation realities intersect simultaneously across time.”

Police Praxis was developed as a writing-centered analytical framework intended for attorney-retained review in matters involving police training systems, instructional governance, organizational preparedness, curriculum alignment, and administrative oversight. Its work remains document-focused, systems-oriented, and grounded in institutional analysis rather than incident-specific advocacy.

Professional and Academic Foundation

Prior to developing Police Praxis, Loglisci spent more than two decades working within one of the nation’s largest metropolitan policing environments, including assignments connected to police instruction, curriculum development, training coordination, and organizational educational systems. His academic work includes advanced study in adult learning and workforce development principles, with continuing doctoral research examining instructional alignment and organizational structures within police training environments.

That combined professional and academic background contributed to the development of Police Praxis as a specialized framework situated at the intersection of organizational systems analysis, adult education, and law enforcement institutional review.

It was revealed that Boeing had notice in 2002 that components were failing and destroying the critical structural lugs that attach the engines to the wings of MD-11’s. While Boeing eventually issued benign “Service Letters” acknowledging that bearing race fractures had been found in service, its operational safety process classified the issue as “not a safety of flight condition” and omitted that, in four of the five known failures, the damage was severe enough to require full structural bulkhead replacements.

For the next two decades, warning signs regarding the MD-11’s defective pylon bearings were downplayed or even ignored. Meanwhile, the FAA’s Service Difficulty Report database was dysfunctional and effectively blind to safety trends, and Boeing treated repeated structural failures as little more than additional data points. This resulted in a dangerous “fly to failure” loop that persisted for years.

A 2007 Boeing presentation confirmed that the failure could cause the loss of a load path between the wing and the engine pylon, and a report of an actual crack in the lug that same year was never even included in the safety analysis. This was before Boeing redesigned an optional bearing to eliminate the defect, turning a known fix for a deadly defect into a mere suggestion. Boeing also created an inspection task intended to catch the migrating bearing before it could destroy the lugs, but never actually built it into the maintenance program with a required interval.

As the public was previously made aware by the NTSB, an engine and pylon tearing away from this family of aircraft during takeoff occurred once before, on a DC-10 in 1979. After that disaster, the NTSB asked the FAA to fix the very reporting system that failed again here. The FAA closed that recommendation as “unacceptable” and called it an economic burden. Forty-six years later, the same family of aircraft and the same kind of failure took fifteen more lives. We refuse to let that warning be ignored a third time.

UPS and FedEx were advised 15 years ago that the redesigned bearing was available and would eliminate the risks posed by components that had failed on multiple aircraft. FedEx followed this guidance to retrofit its fleet with the redesigned bearing. UPS engineering did not.

“It’s unfortunate and disappointing that our hometown, Big Brown, has fallen so far behind FedEx in prioritizing aircraft safety. Hundreds of these planes tower over us every day and night. Thousands of hero pilots from this community fly them. They deserve better,” said Sam Aguiar.

The public learned more about the operations of UPS’s maintenance contractor, ST Engineering, which housed the aircraft for servicing from September through October 18, 2025. The crew, most of whom lacked certifications, failed to identify a bearing already cracked across roughly 75% of its surface. UPS’s own audit of the contractor, completed just ten days before the crash, found outdated maintenance manuals in use and parts signed off as “serviceable” despite visible defects. When a lead mechanic was asked whether he had checked the references he was certifying, the response was, “Do I check every reference? To be honest, no.” A mechanic asked about a required engine support tool, testified, “Sir, I don’t even know what it looks like.” In fact, only four of the twenty technicians on the line held FAA mechanic certificates, and a contracted technician’s quality-control audit could take as little as three to fifteen minutes and never involve even looking at the plane. Even after learning this, UPS allowed the subject aircraft, which had just been at this facility for a month and a half, to remain in service without requiring a more thorough inspection by compliant personnel.

The hearing also exposed gaps that the parties could not explain. Witnesses for UPS and ST Engineering contractor repeatedly told NTSB investigators that they did not have the requested records. Boeing’s representative testified that he was not aware of Boeing’s own 2008 written instruction requiring that a separated bearing component be removed and replaced prior to further flight. The NTSB sent every party home with homework to produce data they should have brought on day one, underscoring the attitudes of the corporations, even after 15 lives were lost.

“Fifteen lives were stolen because corporate and regulatory entities viewed routine maintenance as too burdensome and expensive,” said Sam Aguiar. “What we saw this week included manufacturing deceit, regulatory blindness, sloppy maintenance, and corporate complacency. At the end of the day, we will not allow any of these entities to hide behind one another’s blame. Every one of them had a chance to stop this, and every one of them will be held fully accountable,” said Sam Aguiar.

The NTSB has not yet issued its final report, and its investigation continues; parties have until June 19, 2026, to file proposed findings. 

In a statement from the firm, they said our firm will not stop until this culture of concealment is dismantled and every responsible party answers for the lives shattered on November 4. Our community and these grieving families deserve systemic change to prevent a recurrence, and that is exactly what we will work to deliver.

Facts and quoted testimony in this statement are drawn from the National Transportation Safety Board public docket for the UPS Flight 2976 investigation, accident number DCA26MA024, available at ntsb.gov. An NTSB investigative hearing is a fact-finding proceeding; the NTSB has not issued a final report or probable cause finding in this matter. Attorney Advertising. This is an advertisement. Allegations in pending litigation are not findings of liability and remain to be proven. Past results do not guarantee or predict outcomes in any future case. No representation is made that the quality of the legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other lawyers.

“Our new office gives us the opportunity to enhance the services we offer our Houston-area clients,” says Parag Shah, CEO of Miles. “We are looking forward to continuing to expand our Houston panel and to serve our clients’ needs in the professional, welcoming environment of our new space.”

Miles’ new 6,000-square-foot state-of-the-art office suite is located on the eighth floor of 5300 Memorial Drive. It features ten fully equipped, multiuse conference rooms including a dedicated arbitration room that provide a comfortable, neutral place to resolve disputes. The office also offers Zoom technology, sound masking, and free parking.

Miles’ Houston panel includes Ron Bankston, Robins Brice, Wiley George, Gary McGowan, Hon. Mike Miller, Hon. Margaret Poissant, Hon. Robert Schaffer, and Louis Selig.

Miles was founded in 2000 and has 12 offices throughout the United States, including Atlanta, Birmingham, Boston, Charlotte, Columbia, Denver, Houston, Jacksonville, Nashville, Savannah, St. Louis, and Tampa.

With more visitors and heightened activity in homes, dogs may become overwhelmed or anxious. This can increase the risk of dog bite incidents, making it crucial for pet owners to take preventive measures to protect themselves and their families. Chandler Ross Injury Attorneys, recognized for advocating on behalf of injury victims, emphasizes understanding these risks and the responsibilities that accompany them.

“Dog bites can lead to serious injuries and legal complications. It’s essential for pet owners to be proactive in ensuring the safety of their guests and pets,” said Managing Attorney, John “Tony” Ross. “Simple precautions can make a significant difference.”

Steps for a Safer Holiday Environment

There are several steps families can take to protect their guests and animals during this busy season.

Familiarity and Comfort: Even if your dog is familiar with the guests, it is essential to introduce them slowly and provide a space for retreat.
Supervision: Be mindful of interactions between your dog and guests. Busier and louder settings can trigger a dog to act out of character.
Education: Ensure your guests know how to interact with your dog. This includes advising them on how to read your dog’s body language.
Secure Environment: Dogs that are particularly anxious may benefit from barriers or a quiet room with limited access to busier areas.

Dog bites can result in severe injuries, leading to substantial medical expenses and potentially triggering legal action. Understanding the legal obligations and responsibilities as a pet owner is vital. Liability in such cases can be significant, underscoring the importance of preventive measures.

“Ensuring a safe environment not only protects your guests but also your family and your dog,” the spokesperson added. “It’s about creating a joyful and incident-free holiday season for everyone involved.”

For homeowners, being mindful of their pets’ behavior and surroundings can ensure that festivities are enjoyable and safe. Taking these measures reflects a commitment to the well-being of both human and animal guests.

Key facts in the case are undisputed and captured on the plaintiff’s home video system: on the morning of the attack, the plaintiff was in her front yard preparing to leave for work with her Dachshund when her next-door neighbor, who had recently acquired the pit bull through a rescue, walked the dog nearby. Without warning, the pit bull escaped from its leash, charged the plaintiff and her small dog, and began attacking. The plaintiff was able to pick up her dog up and tried to retreat to the safety of her home. As she attempted to open the front door, but the pit bull repeatedly jumped on her and bit both forearms. The dog then latched onto the plaintiff’s left forearm, biting down multiple times, causing a comminuted displaced fracture with possible extension into the ulnocarpal joint. The plaintiff’s husband, who had been asleep inside the home, rushed outside and fought the dog off before the neighbor finally retrieved the animal and returned to her home.

The plaintiff was transported by ambulance to the local emergency room, where imaging revealed a distal left ulnar comminuted displaced fracture, soft tissue swelling, and air pockets within the soft tissue of the distal left forearm. She underwent emergency surgery for surgical wound washout and closure and splinting of the distal left ulnar fracture. She remained hospitalized for three days. The attack left the plaintiff with significant scarring to both forearms and ongoing physical consequences.

“Nothing prepares someone for the fear and physical devastation of being attacked by a neighbor’s dog while trying to protect their own pet,” said Naperville dog bite attorney, Marilynn Frangella of John J. Malm & Associates. “In this case, the video evidence and medical records documented a brutal, unprovoked attack that left our client with a broken arm, permanent scarring, and severe trauma. We pursued a fair settlement to cover her past and future medical needs and to hold the responsible party accountable. We hope this result will encourage safer practices for owners of pit bulls and greater accountability when an attack occurs in our community.”

Case Overview and Investigation

From the outset of this matter, the firm employed a comprehensive investigative approach. The plaintiff’s Ring camera footage provided clear, compelling visual evidence of the events as they unfolded, including the dog escaping its leash, the attack itself, and the neighbor’s delayed retrieval of the animal. Medical records documented the extent of the injuries, the emergency surgical intervention, and the need for subsequent rehabilitation.

In addition to securing and reviewing all medical documentation, the firm obtained contemporaneous photographs of the injuries and the scene, documented witness accounts from the plaintiff’s husband and other nearby observers, and reviewed local animal control records. All of this evidence was essential in establishing liability and calculating damages.

Injury, Treatment and Long-Term Impact

The attack caused severe and lasting harm. The plaintiff suffered a significant fracture to her left forearm, multiple bite-related wounds to both arms, and substantial soft-tissue trauma. She also sustained permanent scarring to both forearms.

Emergency physicians and orthopedic surgeons performed same-day surgical care and wound closure, followed by several days of inpatient monitoring. She later engaged in outpatient physical therapy to restore function, reduce stiffness, and work toward resuming normal activities.

The injuries continue to affect the plaintiff’s daily life, including limitations with lifting and carrying, diminished strength in the injured arm, ongoing medical follow-up needs, and the emotional trauma associated with the incident. These ongoing needs and losses were central to the settlement negotiations.

Liability and Legal Issues

Dog bite and dangerous animal claims frequently turn on issues of foreseeability and the owner’s duty to control a known dangerous propensity in the animal. In this case, the facts showed the pit bull escaped its leash without provocation and proceeded to attack a woman lawfully on her own property. The plaintiff’s recorded evidence, medical documentation, and credible eyewitness testimony made liability clear and supported claims for negligence and for damages resulting from a dog attack.

Like many dog-bite matters, this case required careful attention to both immediate damage, medical bills, hospital care, surgery, and therapy, and long-term damages, including pain and suffering, disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life. In consultation with medical experts, the firm calculated both present and anticipated future needs to arrive at a settlement value that fairly compensated the plaintiff for the full extent of her losses.

Damages Recovered Through Settlement

The $500,000 settlement reflects the seriousness of the injuries, the clear evidence of liability, and the plaintiff’s continuing medical needs. Negotiations conducted by Marilynn Frangella involved presenting a comprehensive demand package to the insurer, including medical records, surgical reports, rehabilitation records, Ring camera footage, testimony summaries, and expert opinions regarding prognosis and future care needs.

The firm’s goal in pursuing a negotiated settlement in serious dog bite cases like this one is always calculated to secure a recovery of and amount of damages that recognizes the client’s past and future economic losses (emergency care, hospitalization, surgical costs, pain management, and physical therapy), as well as certain non-economic losses, such as pain and suffering and permanent scarring. Settlements in serious dog attacks must also account for the trauma of the attack and the long-term impact on the plaintiff’s quality of life.

“This settlement helps our client receive deserved justice and compensation for the devastating injuries suffered in what was a wholly preventable and terrifying attack,” said Illinois pit bull attack lawyer, John J. Malm. “No one should face such violence in their own front yard. Our clients put their trust in neighbors and in the community; when that trust is broken by careless behavior or a failure to control a dangerous animal, the law provides a path to hold those responsible accountable. We are grateful to have secured needed compensation that will assist our client with medical expenses, future care needs, and the life-long consequences of this unprovoked attack.”

Community Safety and Prevention

While this settlement provides compensation for the plaintiff’s injuries, the firm emphasizes that financial recovery alone does not undo the trauma or eliminate the risk to others. John J. Malm & Associates hopes that the publicity surrounding this case will raise awareness about responsible animal ownership, leash compliance, secure fencing, proper training for rescue animals, and prompt reporting of dangerous animal behavior to local authorities.

Dog attacks involving powerful breeds like pit bulls are particularly dangerous because of their strength and ability to cause significant harm. Community education, combined with enforcement of leash laws and responsible rehoming practices, is essential to reduce the risk of similar tragedies.

“When an owner obtains an animal, they accept the responsibility to keep it under control and to ensure that it is safe around other people and animals,” said Malm. “Communities must work together to protect residents and prevent attacks that cause permanent harm.”

“In the moments after a crash, clear thinking can be difficult, but the actions you take right away can significantly impact your health and your ability to recover fair compensation,” said attorney Mickey Fine.

Once the scene is secure, certain actions can help preserve valuable evidence. Below are the immediate steps you must take to protect yourself and strengthen any future claim you may pursue:

Call 911 — safety and documentation first:
Always report the accident to emergency services and allow police to document what happened.

Seek medical evaluation — even if you feel okay:
Some injuries don’t appear right away. Immediate medical care helps diagnose hidden problems and creates an official record.

Document the scene thoroughly:
Photograph vehicles, injuries, road conditions, and anything else relevant. If witnesses are present, collect their names and contact information.

Collect driver, vehicle, and insurance information:
Ask for the truck driver’s license, insurance details, employer information, and license plate number.

Avoid admitting fault:
Stay calm and focus on facts. Casual statements can later be misinterpreted during the claims process.

After leaving the scene, continue protecting yourself by keeping all medical records, repair estimates, receipts, and insurance communications. Commercial trucks often store critical electronic data, and nearby cameras or vehicles may have captured footage. An attorney can help secure this evidence quickly before it becomes lost or overwritten.

Because truck accidents often involve several responsible parties―from the driver to the trucking company or maintenance providers―these cases can be far more complex than standard collisions. The Law Offices of Mickey Fine, with more than 30 years of experience representing injury victims, recommends contacting an attorney as early as possible. Insurance companies move fast to limit payouts, but a skilled legal team can safeguard your rights and pursue fair compensation. Taking the right steps early plays a major role in your long-term recovery and helps ensure you receive the support you need moving forward.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a commercial vehicle crash, California truck accident attorney Mickey Fine encourages you to reach out for help. You do not have to navigate this alone.

For a free consultation, visit www.personalinjurybakersfield.com

HMW Law’s New Year Safe Ride Campaign offers 100 free Uber or Lyft vouchers, helping participants get home safely after their celebrations. Each voucher is valued at $20 and can be used through Uber or Lyft between 5:00 PM on December 31, 2025, and 11:59 PM on January 1, 2026.

Reserve your voucher by December 29, 2025, by completing the form on HMW Law’s campaign page.

“We see too many cases that start with one avoidable decision,” said Brandon Henderson, managing partner of HMW Law. “This campaign is about giving people an easy, no-excuses option. If we can help one person make the safer choice, it’s worth it.”

Taking Action During a High-Risk Holiday

The National Safety Council projects nearly 375 traffic fatalities nationwide over the New Year’s holiday period, with drunk driving as a leading cause. In response, HMW Law—The Ohio Trial Attorneys is encouraging people to plan ahead and use rideshare services to avoid tragic consequences.

Open to residents in Cleveland and surrounding areas, the firm’s campaign seeks to prevent DUI-related incidents and support community well-being through direct action.

How to Participate

• Sign Up by December 29: Complete the short form on HMW Law’s campaign page to reserve your voucher.
• Use on New Year’s Eve or Day: Vouchers are valid for Uber or Lyft from December 31 at 5:00 PM through January 1 at 11:59 PM.
• One Per Person: Limited quantity available—early sign-ups encouraged.

The milestone comes amid steady consumer demand for legal recourse under California’s Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, commonly referred to as the lemon law. The law provides protections for individuals who purchase or lease vehicles that repeatedly fail to meet reliability and safety standards. Attorneys at Wirtz Law APC say their consistent casework and vigilance in tracking legal developments have played a key role in achieving this record amount for clients.

“In each case, our primary objective is to ensure consumers receive the protection and remedies guaranteed by law,” said Richard Wirtz, managing attorney at Wirtz Law APC. “This total is a reflection of the firm’s ongoing commitment to helping clients navigate the challenges of repeated auto defects and warranty disputes.”

Lemon law attorneys at Wirtz Law note that regular legislative and regulatory updates are integral to the firm’s approach. Legal teams routinely review court decisions, statutory amendments, and regulatory guidance to ensure clients are advised on the most current legal protections and strategies. This commitment to staying informed, the firm says, has contributed to both the volume and success of recent cases.

“In a legal environment that is constantly evolving, it’s essential to remain informed and prepared,” Wirtz said. “Our team prioritizes continuing education and internal discussion so that we are ready to advocate effectively as new regulations and case law emerge.”

Industry observers report that lemon law claims in California have increased in tandem with heightened consumer awareness and ongoing challenges within the automotive sector, including supply chain delays and a rise in vehicle recalls. Wirtz Law APC’s $70 million achievement underscores the continuing demand for representation and guidance in resolving disputes over defective vehicles.

As the year concludes, Wirtz Law APC maintains its focus on protecting consumers’ rights under California’s lemon law, ensuring that individuals have access to remedies and representation when facing persistent vehicle defects. The firm’s achievement marks not just a financial milestone, but a continued commitment to serving consumers throughout California.

The expansion delivers the firm’s three decades of car accident and truck accident experience directly to Arlington, Grand Prairie, Mansfield, and surrounding communities where major events draw thousands of visitors alongside steady population growth.

“We’re growing our presence across Texas so families facing serious injuries can find the help they need close to home,” said Founder and Managing Partner Angel Reyes, who was recognized as a Best Personal Injury Lawyer in Arlington by Forbes Advisor. “Arlington hosts millions of visitors each year for sports and entertainment, and both residents and visitors deserve quality legal representation when accidents happen on our roads.”

Serving Central DFW

The Arlington office serves communities throughout the region between Dallas and Fort Worth, with bilingual staff ready to help in English and Spanish.

The location positions the firm to quickly assist families dealing with crashes on I-20, I-30, and Highway 360, major routes that see increased congestion during Rangers games, Cowboys games, and major events at the city’s sports venues and entertainment complexes.

Local Support, Established Results

The new office brings experienced legal guidance to families when they need it most, growing the firm’s statewide network while keeping its personalized, client-first philosophy.

Residents of Arlington, Grand Prairie, Mansfield, Cedar Hill, and Duncanville can now work with the firm’s experienced legal team without lengthy travel during an already difficult period.

As an institution dedicated to providing a practical and affordable legal education, MSLAW is committed to preparing students for fulfilling careers in law and leadership roles across diverse sectors. The school distinguishes itself through its emphasis on ethics, advocacy, leadership, and professional skills, aiming to equip graduates with the tools necessary for making a societal contribution and advancement.

Notably, MSLAW eschews the traditional reliance on the LSAT in its admissions process, opting instead for personal interviews and a unique MSLAW Essay Aptitude Test. MSLAW offers rolling admissions and stands as the most cost-effective law school in New England, a fact that resonates with students mindful of their financial commitments. The curriculum integrates professional skill training, enabling graduates to explore rewarding career opportunities without the financial burdens that often accompany a legal education.

To further accommodate diverse needs, MSLAW offers flexible scheduling options, including both day and evening programs. This flexibility allows students to balance their legal education with work, family, and other obligations.

The school’s faculty, comprised of experienced practitioners, brings real-world insights to the classroom, enhancing the learning experience and ensuring that students are well-prepared for the challenges of the legal profession.

Prospective students are encouraged to attend the Open House to engage directly with the MSLAW community and learn more about the opportunities available to them. The event serves as an introduction to an educational environment where affordability, practicality, and personal growth are prioritized, aligning with the school’s mission to nurture future leaders in law, business, and technology.

For those considering a legal education that aligns with their lifestyle, budget, and professional aspirations, the Massachusetts School of Law offers a promising path forward.

For liability in the first damages phase, the jury has awarded $1,041,667 for wrongful termination, $1,051,667 for whistleblower retaliation, $666,667 for breach of contract, and varying amounts against the individual defendants and Yolo Food Bank for what Plaintiffs alleged was a campaign of defamation culminating in a press release issued by Yolo Feed Bank. Defamation damages against all individual defendants and Yolo Food Bank so far total approximately $240,000. The punitive damages phase of the deliberations will continue later in the month when the jury will decide on the amount of punitive damages to award.

“This verdict vindicates Mr. Bisch’s four years of exemplary service to Yolo County’s most vulnerable residents,” said Sanjiv N. Singh, lead counsel for Mr. Bisch, and veteran catastrophic loss litigator with major settlements and/or verdicts for high profile cases against The Boeing Company, Los Angeles County, American Airlines,  Level 10, Webcor, The Jay Paul Company, and numerous confidential settlements with major firms, charities, and corporations. “Mr. Bisch should be heralded as a champion of nonprofit accountability—he fought a long and hard battle to seek justice for retaliation and refused to capitulate when his Board gave in to improper pressure and conflicted interests.”

Michael B. Indrajana, Mr. Singh’s long standing co-counsel in 75 claims against Boeing in two separate crashes, sat second chair for what was his first jury trial. “It was a privilege to have worked by Michael Bisch’s side on this groundbreaking lawsuit,” Mr. Indrajana added.

Evidence at trial showed a systematic campaign to discredit Bisch, including false allegations that were not true and not properly investigated. Yolo Food Bank Board members’ own testimony revealed they likely conducted no meaningful investigation of allegations against Mr. Bisch. Evidence showed defendants’ explanations for termination were likely pretextual and constantly shifting. Multiple former employees testified to the positive transformation of the organization under Mr. Bisch’s leadership.

Singh added that, “This verdict sends a clear message that nonprofit executives cannot be terminated for fulfilling their ethical obligations and protecting the interests of the community.”

CASE REFERENCE: Michael Bisch v. Yolo Food Bank, et al., Yolo County Superior Court Case No. CV2022-1431

The case proceeded through litigation in the normal course, with the exchange of paper discovery and depositions taking place. Once complete, the insurance company for the box truck stated that they would only discuss settlement by way of Mediation. We agreed to try Mediation, and at the Mediation the insurance carrier for the offending vehicle only offered $50,000.00 to resolve the matter, which was rejected.

On November 5, 2025, a final settlement conference was held and the insurance company for the offending vehicle was still offering only $50,000.00 to settle the case, and so a final trial date was given by the Court. On November 12, 2025, the parties settled the matter, and the firm’s client can move on with his life.

A two-time graduate of Boston College, Kristin McAlpin earned her B.A. in 2014 and her J.D. from Boston College Law School in 2017. She was admitted to the New York bar in 2018. At Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Firm, she will apply her courtroom background and research-driven methodology to investigations, motion practice, and trial work on behalf of clients alleging injuries caused by medical malpractice.

“My background in criminal defense taught me that rigorous fact development and measured advocacy can change outcomes. At Jacob D. Fuchsberg Law Firm, I’m eager to collaborate on cases that demand strategic judgment and tenacity on behalf of our clients,” said Kristin McAlpin, Associate.

Originally from Miami, Florida, McAlpin has called New York City home for eight years. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring new restaurants, visiting museums, taking self-guided walking tours, and spending time at Rockaway Beach.

Washington, D.C. – [November 3, 2025] — Marino Finley LLP is proud to announce that nationally recognized trial attorney Billy Martin has joined the firm as Of Counsel in our Washington, D.C. office.

A former federal prosecutor, seasoned trial lawyer, and one of the most sought-after litigators in the United States, Mr. Martin has earned a reputation as a trusted advocate in many sensitive, high-visibility cases. His ability to navigate challenging legal and media environments makes him a valued addition to our litigation practice.

Mr. Martin is widely known for his decades of experience handling high-stakes litigation, exceptional courtroom skills, and for representing high-profile clients, professional athletes, entertainers, celebrities, and public and political figures in complex civil and criminal matters. His career has been defined by discretion, strategic acumen, and an unwavering commitment to justice.

“We have been partners at big law in the past and we are thrilled to re-unite with Billy at Marino Finley,” said Dan Marino.  “Billy’s track record of success in the courtroom, combined with his deep integrity and judgment, enhances our ability to serve clients in matters where the stakes—and the scrutiny—are highest.”

Mr. Martin has received numerous honors throughout his career. Among them are being named to the American Trial Lawyers Association’s Top 100 Trial Lawyers list, Best Lawyers in America, D.C. Bar Association’s Legend of the Bar, National Law Journal’s “50 Most Influential Minority Lawyers,” ranked 4^th in Washingtonian Magazine’s List of Top Lawyers, and featured by both Black Enterprise Magazine and Ebony Magazine. He has also been selected for inclusion in the Washington, D.C., Super Lawyers from 2007 to 2024.

“I have respected the work of this firm throughout my career and am thrilled to join this powerhouse litigation team where clients are the first priority and the highest bar of legal excellence is upheld,” says Mr. Martin.

Mr. Martin’s arrival enables Marino Finley to harness the experience gained from having tried more than 250 jury trials in jurisdictions across the country. Marino Finley handles civil and criminal litigation matters throughout the United States. Working with its European affiliate, www.sofoslaw.gr, Marino Finley also handles international arbitrations and criminal matters involving U.S. citizens. For more information, visit www.marinofinley.com.

MSLAW distinguishes itself in the realm of legal education by providing an academically rigorous yet affordable path to a law degree. The institution stands out by eschewing the conventional LSAT requirement and offering the lowest tuition among law schools on the East Coast. 

By assembling a diverse faculty that includes scholars, judges, and practitioners, MSLAW provides a learning environment rich in real-world experience and diverse perspectives. In contrast to traditional models, MSLAW emphasizes accessibility and practical training. It operates on a rolling admissions basis, allowing applicants the flexibility to apply at any point during the year. 

The November Open House offers a comprehensive introduction to the MSLAW experience. Prospective students will have the opportunity to engage with faculty, explore academic programs, and discover the unique resources available on campus. By attending, they can gain a deeper understanding of how the school prepares its graduates to effectively utilize their legal skills in the service of their clients and communities.

MSLAW maintains a firm commitment to non-discrimination, welcoming individuals from all walks of life. This inclusive ethos is at the heart of the school’s mission to provide a supportive and diverse educational environment. Prospective students are encouraged to visit the Andover campus and experience firsthand the school’s dedication to community-oriented legal education.

The complaint, Batman Investments LLC v. Hostetter, et al., was filed Aug. 27, 2025, in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. The action seeks at least $700 million in compensatory damages, plus pre- and post-judgment interest.

Defendants are identified as Jerry Hostetter, Mir Jafer Ali “Buck” Joffrey, Randall Leaman and David Zook. The proposed class alleges the companies and their executives raised roughly $700 million from about 2,700 investors by claiming to own and operate about 38,000 ATMs nationwide. According to the complaint, Prestige and Paramount owned fewer than 10,000 ATMs, with fewer than 1,000 in operation, and used new investor funds to pay prior investors.

The suit alleges that executives diverted investor money for their personal benefit and concealed mounting losses through deceptive accounting practices. The filing cites missed investor payments beginning in April 2024 and references subsequent events involving non-party Daryl Heller, including an FBI search in December 2024 and a February 2025 bankruptcy.

“We are seeing a rise in cases involving unregistered securities raising millions of dollars using unlicensed promoters to help raise capital,” said Scott Silver, managing partner of Securities Fraud Attorneys. “Unfortunately, while privately held companies need access to capital, investors need to be careful about false representations, securities fraud, and the proliferation of Ponzi schemes in the private marketplace.”

The case seeks to certify a class of investors who purchased interests in the Prestige Funds and related entities tied to Paramount’s ATM operations. The complaint alleges violations of federal securities laws and state-law claims and requests a jury trial.

Investors who purchased interests associated with Prestige Funds, Paramount Management Group or related entities and who suffered losses are encouraged to contact Securities Fraud Attorneys for a confidential consultation.

CASE INFORMATION

U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania
Batman Investments LLC v. Hostetter, et al.
Case No. 5:25-cv-04911

Founded by Lori Brown-Simmons, a veteran law firm operations executive who held leadership roles at several Am Law 50 firms including DLA Piper, and Jeff Marquis, a Harvard-trained CPA, CFA, and former CEO, FFA helps midsized law firms gain executive-level insight without adding full-time overhead.

FFA’s team of fractional CFOs, COOs, CMOs, and CHROs works directly with firm leaders to strengthen profitability, improve efficiency, and bring financial clarity through fractional and outsourced leadership models.

Bringing a Proven Model to Law Firms

As technology, AI, and client demands reshape the business of law, midsized firms face growing pressure to match BigLaw sophistication on smaller budgets.

“Many midsized firms are led by outstanding partners but lack access to executive-level financial expertise,” said Brown-Simmons. “Fractional leadership isn’t new, but it may feel new to law firms. Our mission is simple: give firms access to BigLaw talent — at a part-time cost.”

Having spent over 15 years in Am Law 50 leadership, Brown-Simmons said she has seen firsthand the challenge of balancing client service with lean operational budgets. “Many firms operate without the financial visibility they need,” she added. “That lack of insight can make even profitable firms vulnerable to margin pressure.”

Solving the Law Firm “Profit Squeeze”

Industry observers describe a “profit squeeze” among midsized firms — a gap between rising client expectations and limited capacity to raise rates or hire senior financial talent. FFA’s fractional and outsourced CFOs embed with firm leadership to provide real-time visibility into profitability and decision-making.

“In every successful company I’ve advised, strong financial leadership is non-negotiable,” said Marquis. “Law firms are no different. Once a firm reaches around 30 attorneys, it needs the same level of financial sophistication as any other mid-market enterprise. The outsourced CFO model makes that possible – without the full-time cost.”