A Morning Built Around Relationships, Not Referrals

Attorneys Michael Weaver, Michael George, and Mike Weaver, along with Client Intake Specialist Myra Parris, spent the morning at North Hall Tire greeting employees, sharing coffee, and answering legal questions in a casual, low-pressure setting. The firm and its staff across all three offices count themselves among North Hall Tire’s longtime customers, and the visit was as much a thank-you as it was an outreach event.

“At Weaver Law, we’ve proudly called North Georgia home for 26 years,” said Mike Weaver. “The best part of our job isn’t just representing clients after an injury, it’s building relationships with the people and businesses that make our community so special. Thank you, North Hall Tire, for your hospitality and the outstanding service you provide to Gainesville and the surrounding communities. We appreciate you.”

The cold brew and iced coffee served during the stop came courtesy of Phoenix Roasters in Buford, and employees who stopped by were entered into a drawing for lunch from Alpha Gyro, a Greek restaurant in Gainesville located next door to Weaver Law Firm’s Gainesville office.

Why the Firm Set Aside 30 Minutes for Free Legal Advice

For 30 to 45 minutes, attorneys fielded questions from North Hall Tire employees on a range of legal topics. According to the firm, the Q&A sessions exist because people often want to speak with an attorney but don’t know who to call, or assume that a conversation with a lawyer will be too expensive. Weaver Law Firm handles personal injury matters exclusively, including car wrecks, big truck wrecks, job injuries, slip and falls, and dog bites, and no longer takes on divorce, criminal, wills, or contract cases. When a question falls outside that scope, the firm refers the person to someone who can help.

Three Offices, One Local Focus

Weaver Law Firm has recovered more than $150,000,000 for clients across thousands of cases handled throughout Georgia. Every client is given their attorney’s personal cell phone number, and the firm helps clients without health insurance access immediate medical care after an injury. The firm’s Gainesville office is located at 310 E.E. Butler Parkway, Gainesville, GA 30501.

The North Hall Tire stop follows the firm’s established pattern of showing up in the communities it serves, not just after an injury, but on ordinary Thursday mornings, coffee in hand.

To speak directly with a Weaver Law Firm attorney, call 770-415-5555 or visit weaverfirm.com.

Six attorneys were selected to the 2026 New York Metro Super Lawyers list, while six were recognized as Rising Stars, highlighting the firm’s continued commitment to providing dedicated legal representation to seriously injured New Yorkers.

The attorneys named to the 2026 New York Metro Super Lawyers list are Alex Shulman, JJ Hill, Michael Kusz, Cary London, Ari Lieberman, and Michael Zogala.

The attorneys recognized as 2026 New York Metro Rising Stars are David Schleider, Jonathan Wachlarz, Christine Colvert, Evan Lloyd, Tara Nealon, and Benjamin Rabinowitz.

Super Lawyers recognizes outstanding attorneys across over 70 practice areas every year, with a selection process that involves peer nominations, independent research, and professional evaluations. 

The Rising Stars recognition highlights attorneys who have demonstrated professional achievement and distinction early in their careers. It generally recognizes attorneys age 40 or under who have been practicing law for a decade or less. 

For Shulman & Hill, the recognition is a reflection of the work the firm does every day for people and families dealing with the consequences of serious injuries. The firm has recovered more than $1 billion in settlements and verdicts for seriously injured New Yorkers, helping clients pursue compensation while they focus on their recovery and their families.

“Our clients come to us during some of the most difficult moments of their lives,” said Alex Shulman, co-founder of Shulman & Hill. “This recognition is meaningful because it reflects the dedication our attorneys bring to each case. We are proud to stand with New Yorkers throughout every step of the legal process.”

Known for its client-focused approach, Shulman & Hill serves injured people throughout New York City under its guiding tagline, “Every Borough, Every Block.” The firm works to make legal representation accessible to clients across the city while providing personalized attention to the circumstances surrounding each case.

The 2026 Super Lawyers and Rising Stars recognitions add to the firm’s broader record of professional achievement, but Shulman & Hill remains focused on what matters most: helping injured New Yorkers understand their rights and seek the compensation they may be entitled to under the law.

The invitation-only organization identifies civil plaintiff and criminal defense trial lawyers from each state through a multi-phase process that includes peer nominations, third-party research, and independent evaluation of qualifications related to leadership, reputation, and trial experience.

In a letter confirming the selection, The National Trial Lawyers recognized Levy’s inclusion in its Top 100 membership organization. Levy has been with O’Connor, Acciani & Levy since the firm’s founding in 1992. 

Over more than three decades of practice, he has represented personal injury clients throughout Greater Cincinnati and the surrounding tri-state region in cases involving car accidents, truck accidents, medical malpractice, wrongful death, nursing home abuse, and catastrophic injuries. The firm maintains offices in Cincinnati, Columbus, Covington, and Florence.

The selection adds to a series of professional recognitions for the firm’s attorneys. O’Connor, Acciani & Levy holds a Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent rating, and five of the firm’s attorneys have been named to the Super Lawyers or Rising Stars lists. The firm also maintains an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.

O’Connor, Acciani & Levy continues to accept personal injury, wrongful death, and catastrophic injury cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning clients pay no attorney fees unless the firm recovers compensation on their behalf. 

Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.

These easy-to-access rideshare rides ensure that drivers can hit the road without putting the people around them in harm’s way. The Labor Day Lyfts by LSIA reduce locals’ risks of drinking and driving, preventing accidents that might otherwise turn a Labor Day barbecue, pool day, or beach vacation into a much less happy affair.

Interested parties can register for access to the free Labor Day Lyft rides from August 12 to September 4, 2026. Fill out the form on the Lone Star Injury Attorneys’ website to qualify. Once we select our free ride recipients, we will text recipients with their free ride pass. Recipients can then use that free ride pass at any point between September 5 and September 8, 2026.

Each ride pass available through Labor Day Lyfts by LSIA is worth $10 and limited to one per person.

With help from Lone Star Injury Attorneys, locals can have a fun Labor Day weekend and keep the community safer. Take advantage of the opportunity to win a free ride today and let us reduce the number of drinking and driving accidents across the nation.

Anyone interested in applying for a free Lyft ride through the Labor Day Lyfts by LSIA can visit Lone Star Injury Attorneys’ website for more information.

Brian Brown, Leah Barron, Christopher Casciano, and Emily Hammann have each earned recognition in areas focused on representing people and families who have suffered serious harm. The attorneys are recognized for their work in Medical Malpractice Law – Plaintiffs, while Brown and Barron are also recognized for Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs.

The recognition highlights the depth of experience within Brown & Barron, a Baltimore-based civil justice law firm focused on medical malpractice, nursing home abuse, personal injury, and other serious injury cases. The firm represents clients throughout Maryland and the District of Columbia.

Four Attorneys Recognized

Brian Brown, founding partner and managing member of Brown & Barron, is recognized in Medical Malpractice Law – Plaintiffs and Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs. Brown has more than 30 years of experience handling medical malpractice and nursing home abuse litigation. His work has included more than 100 tort trials, along with extensive appellate work in Maryland.

Leah Barron, a founding partner of the firm, is recognized in Medical Malpractice Law – Plaintiffs and Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs. Her practice includes representing families affected by nursing home abuse and other serious injuries. Best Lawyers lists Barron as recognized since 2024 in both practice areas.

Christopher Casciano, a partner and trial attorney, is recognized in Medical Malpractice Law – Plaintiffs. Casciano represents people and families affected by medical malpractice, nursing home abuse, wrongful death, and catastrophic personal injuries. He has spent his legal career advocating for injured clients in Maryland.

Emily Hammann, also a partner and trial attorney, is recognized in Medical Malpractice Law – Plaintiffs. Hammann has more than 20 years of experience working primarily on medical malpractice cases. Her background includes experience representing both healthcare providers and injured patients, giving her insight into the issues that can arise in complex medical negligence cases.

Recognition Reflects Peer Review

Best Lawyers uses a peer-review process in which attorneys evaluate the professional abilities of other lawyers practicing in the same geographic and legal practice areas. The organization says its recognition process is based on the opinions of legal professionals rather than paid placement.

For Brown & Barron, the recognition is another reflection of the firm’s focus on serious civil litigation and its work on behalf of injured people and their families.

“Recognition by our peers is meaningful because it reflects the work our attorneys put into every case and every client relationship,” said Brown & Barron. “We are proud of Brian, Leah, Chris, and E.J. for the knowledge, preparation, and commitment they bring to their work.”

Focused on Clients and Complex Cases

Brown & Barron focuses its practice on cases involving medical malpractice, nursing home negligence, birth injuries, wrongful death, and other serious personal injuries. The firm says its attorneys work closely with clients throughout the legal process, from the initial review of a potential claim through settlement negotiations or trial.

The firm’s team has more than 145 years of combined trial experience. Brown & Barron also reports that it has helped more than 20,000 clients and recovered more than $169 million for clients through verdicts and settlements since 2017.

The firm approaches each case with the understanding that serious injuries can affect an entire family. Medical errors, nursing home neglect, and other forms of negligence can create long-term physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Brown & Barron’s attorneys work to understand those challenges and help clients pursue appropriate legal remedies.

Denver, Colorado — Kyle Bachus, founding partner of Bachus & Schanker, has been named the 2026 recipient of the Barrister’s Best Award for Best Personal Injury Lawyer by Law Week Colorado. The honor is a peer-selected recognition celebrating excellence, professionalism, and achievement within Colorado’s legal community, and reflects Bachus’s decades of dedication to advocating for individuals and families across the state. 

Law Week Colorado’s Barrister’s Best awards are determined by the votes of fellow legal professionals across the state, distinguishing the recognition from paid or self-submitted rankings. Winners are selected based on demonstrated skill, ethical practice, and standing among their peers. 

“I’m deeply honored by this recognition. It’s especially meaningful because it comes from fellow lawyers who have practiced alongside us and across the courtroom from us over the years. But what matters most is the opportunity to help Colorado families following the death or serious injury of a loved one. Earning their trust and standing beside them is an honor we never take for granted.” – Kyle Bachus 

Bachus has practiced law since 1992 and co-founded Bachus & Schanker in 1996, building the firm into one of Colorado’s most trusted personal injury practices. The firm has recovered over $1.5 billion in verdicts and settlements on behalf of clients, and in 2013 Bachus led the trial team that secured the largest personal injury verdict in the State of Colorado that year. He has been named to the Colorado Super Lawyers list every year from 2007 to 2025, was recognized by Law Week Colorado as the state’s Top Class Action Lawyer in 2014, and has been named by Lawdragon as one of the Top 500 Leading Personal Injury Lawyers in America. 

“I’ve had the privilege of practicing with Kyle for more than three decades, and what sets him apart isn’t just his ability as a trial lawyer—it’s the way he cares about the people he represents. No one outworks Kyle, and he never forgets that every case represents a family counting on us. Awards are meaningful, but those that come from lawyers who know his work are different. They reflect the respect he has earned over more than three decades of serving Colorado families. – Darin Schanker  

More information about Kyle Bachus and the full list of 2026 Barrister’s Best honorees is available at Law Week Colorado’s website. Additional details on the award and Bachus & Schanker’s practice areas can be found at https://www.coloradolaw.net/kyle-bachus-best-personal-injury-law-lawyer-award/.  

The recognition places Bagen among a small fraction of practicing attorneys nationwide. The 33rd edition of Best Lawyers recognizes roughly 81,000 lawyers across more than 150 practice areas, representing about 5% of practicing attorneys in the United States, based on more than 3.8 million peer evaluations submitted by currently recognized lawyers in the same practice area and region.

Best Lawyers selects honorees through its Purely Peer Review® process. A lawyer is first nominated by someone other than themselves, then evaluated confidentially by other currently recognized attorneys practicing in the same field and geographic area. There is no application and no fee to be considered.

A Litigation Career Built on Motorcycle and Motor Vehicle Cases

Bagen leads the Litigation Department at Bagen Law, where he has secured numerous seven-figure verdicts and settlements on behalf of injured clients. His practice centers on personal injury and wrongful death claims, with a particular focus on motor vehicle collisions, including a caseload weighted toward motorcycle accidents.

An avid motorcycle rider himself, Bagen has represented hundreds of fellow riders, including clients who sustained catastrophic injuries. That firsthand perspective informs how he approaches motorcycle litigation, from reconstructing high-speed collisions to countering the bias riders often face from insurers and juries.

Bagen has also been named a Super Lawyers “Rising Star” in its Under-40 category and holds membership in the Multimillion Dollar Advocates Forum, the Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys, the Association of Plaintiffs’ Interstate Trucking Lawyers of America, and the Florida Justice Association.

A graduate of Buchholz High School in Gainesville, Bagen earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Florida and his law degree from Barry University School of Law in Orlando before returning to practice in the community where he grew up.

“This recognition comes from my peers, the people who know what this work actually takes. I’ve built my career representing injured riders and crash victims because I understand what’s at stake for them, and I’ll keep fighting for that same result no matter how many cases come through the door.”

Thomas F. Shebell III is recognized for the first time in the 2027 edition in two practice areas:

• Medical Malpractice Law – Plaintiffs
• Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs

Raymond P. Shebell Sr., who has been recognized by Best Lawyers since 2007, is recognized in:

• Workers’ Compensation Law – Claimants

The 2027 recognitions encompass three of Shebell & Shebell’s primary areas of practice and reflect the firm’s longstanding work on behalf of people injured in accidents, through medical negligence and in the workplace.

Thomas F. Shebell III Recognized for Personal Injury Litigation and Medical Malpractice

Thomas F. Shebell III represents individuals and families throughout New Jersey in serious personal injury and medical malpractice matters.

In his personal injury practice, Shebell represents people injured in motor vehicle crashes, pedestrian and bicycle accidents, unsafe property conditions and other incidents involving negligence. These cases can involve substantial medical expenses, lost income, long-term treatment and permanent changes to an injured person’s quality of life.

Shebell also represents patients and families in medical malpractice cases involving allegations of negligent medical care, including missed or delayed diagnoses, surgical errors, medication errors and other departures from accepted standards of care.

Personal injury and medical malpractice litigation frequently requires a detailed investigation of the circumstances surrounding an injury, preservation of evidence, analysis of medical records and, in appropriate cases, consultation with qualified experts. Shebell & Shebell prepares these cases with an emphasis on understanding both the immediate and long-term impact an injury has on the client.

The 2027 edition marks Shebell’s first recognition in The Best Lawyers in America® and includes him in both Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs and Medical Malpractice Law – Plaintiffs.

Representing Injured People Throughout New Jersey

Shebell & Shebell has represented injured individuals and families in New Jersey for generations. The firm’s practice includes personal injury, medical malpractice and workers’ compensation matters.

For people injured because of another party’s negligence, the firm’s New Jersey personal injury attorneys handle cases involving car accidents, pedestrian accidents, premises liability, catastrophic injuries and other serious injury claims.

In medical negligence matters, Shebell & Shebell represents patients and families seeking answers and accountability following injuries associated with medical care. The firm’s New Jersey medical malpractice practice includes cases that require careful review of medical records, applicable standards of care and the relationship between an alleged medical error and the resulting injury.

The firm emphasizes personal attention, thorough case preparation and a willingness to litigate when a fair resolution cannot otherwise be reached.

Raymond P. Shebell Sr. Recognized for Workers’ Compensation Law – Claimants

Raymond P. Shebell Sr. is also included in the 2027 edition of The Best Lawyers in America® for Workers’ Compensation Law – Claimants. He has been recognized by Best Lawyers since 2007.

Shebell & Shebell has a longstanding workers’ compensation practice representing New Jersey employees who suffer job-related injuries and occupational illnesses. The firm assists injured workers with issues involving authorized medical treatment, temporary disability benefits, permanent disability, denied or delayed claims, return-to-work disputes and other matters arising under New Jersey workers’ compensation law.

The firm’s New Jersey workers’ compensation lawyers represent employees throughout the claims process and, when necessary, in proceedings before the New Jersey Division of Workers’ Compensation.

For an injured worker, a claim can affect immediate access to medical care and replacement wages as well as longer-term questions concerning permanent impairment and the ability to continue working. Shebell & Shebell works with clients to address these issues while protecting the benefits available to them under New Jersey law.

A Tradition of Advocacy Dating to 1927

Shebell & Shebell’s history of representing injured people in New Jersey dates to 1927. From its office in Shrewsbury, the firm today serves clients throughout the state in personal injury, medical malpractice and workers’ compensation cases.

The inclusion of Thomas F. Shebell III and Raymond P. Shebell Sr. in the 2027 edition of The Best Lawyers in America® represents another milestone in that tradition.

To learn more about Shebell & Shebell, LLC and its representation of injured individuals throughout New Jersey, visit Shebell.com.

About Shebell & Shebell, LLC

Shebell & Shebell, LLC is a New Jersey law firm representing individuals and families in personal injury, medical malpractice and workers’ compensation matters. The firm handles cases involving motor vehicle accidents, premises liability, serious and catastrophic injuries, medical negligence, workplace injuries, occupational illnesses and related claims. Shebell & Shebell serves clients throughout New Jersey from its office in Shrewsbury.

Disclaimer

The selection of lawyers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America is based on a comprehensive nomination process and peer-review survey in which lawyers cast their votes on the legal abilities of other lawyers in their practice area and geographical location. To access the selection methodology for Best Lawyers visit: https://www.bestlawyers.com/methodology.

The Best Lawyers in America is published by Best Lawyers. The aforementioned organization is a private peer review organization, not court specific public certification vehicle. No aspect of this advertisement has been submitted to or approved by the Supreme Court of New Jersey.

The verdict was returned after a jury trial before U.S. District Judge Iain D. Johnston at the Stanley J. Roszkowski U.S. Courthouse in Rockford. The jury awarded $15 million for loss of society and $15 million for grief, sorrow, and mental suffering sustained by Brown’s surviving mother and two siblings.

Plaintiff’s counsel believe the award is the largest wrongful-death verdict ever returned at the Rockford federal courthouse and the largest award of wrongful-death damages in the Northern District of Illinois.

The case stems from a January 11, 2020 collision on an unlit stretch of eastbound Interstate 90. Brown’s Chevrolet pickup truck was stopped in the rightmost travel lane when it was struck from behind by a FedEx tractor-trailer driven by Douglas Powell. The FedEx truck did not brake, slow, or swerve before impact. Brown suffered catastrophic injuries and died at the scene.

At trial, the defense contended that Brown was negligent for stopping in an interstate travel lane rather than on the adjacent shoulder and asked the jury to assign a substantial share of responsibility to her. Evidence showed that Brown’s vehicle was in park at the time of the collision, the headlamp switch was in the “on” position, and the hazard-flasher switch was in the “off” position.

Plaintiff presented evidence that Powell had an extended, unobstructed view of the roadway ahead and that Brown’s vehicle was visible in sufficient time for an attentive driver to recognize and avoid it. The evidence further showed that Powell did not brake, slow, swerve, or change lanes before striking Brown’s vehicle.

The jury rejected the comparative-fault argument in its entirety, assigning Brown zero percent fault and awarding the full $30 million requested by her family.

“Things did not work out for FedEx for a reason,” said Eric H. Check of the Law Offices of Eric H. Check. “The reason is that FedEx and its agents made a series of bad decisions beginning in the early morning hours of January 11, 2020, and continuing through the end of trial last Friday afternoon. The jury saw those decisions for what they were and held them accountable.”

“We are grateful for the jury’s careful consideration of the evidence and for a verdict that reflects the gravity of the loss suffered by Tanicialle’s family,” said John (“Jack”) K. Kennedy of Kennedy Watkins LLC.

Brown is survived by her mother, Niki White, and her two siblings, who testified at trial about Brown and the effect her death has had on their family.

Plaintiff has moved the Court to include $9,000,000.00 in prejudgment interest, which would bring the total judgment to $39,000,000.00.

The plaintiff was represented by Eric H. Check of the Law Offices of Eric H. Check and John (“Jack”) K. Kennedy of Kennedy Watkins LLC. Defendants were represented by Michael K. Roberts and Meggie Francine Hogan of Scopelitis, Garvin, Light, Hanson & Feary, P.C.

The case is Niki White, as Independent Administrator of the Estate of Tanicialle Brown, Deceased v. Douglas Powell, T1 Transport Inc., and FedEx Ground Package System, Inc., Case No. 3:21-cv-50094, in the Western Division of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.

Selection to The Best Lawyers in America® is regarded as a significant professional distinction within the legal industry. Attorneys are recognized through a peer-review process in which established lawyers evaluate the professional abilities of other attorneys practicing in the same areas and geographic regions.

National Recognition for Maryland Trial Attorneys

The 2027 recognition comes as Furman Honick Law continues to represent clients in complex litigation involving personal injury, medical malpractice, car accidents, wrongful death, and civil rights matters.

Founded on a philosophy of direct client access and clear communication, the firm provides clients with experienced trial representation while maintaining a personal approach throughout the legal process.

“We built this practice so everyday people could have top-tier trial representation when facing huge insurance companies,” said Allen Honick. “Being recognized by our peers through The Best Lawyers in America is an honor, but our focus remains the same: securing justice and full financial recovery for our clients.”

Dustin Furman emphasized the importance of maintaining a client-focused approach. “When someone comes to us, they are usually going through one of the hardest moments of their life,” Furman said. “Professional recognition is meaningful, but the real reward is helping clients and their families move forward after a devastating injury or loss.”

About the Attorneys

Allen Honick

Allen Honick has established himself as a trial advocate representing individuals in serious personal injury and complex litigation matters. His practice focuses on catastrophic motor vehicle collisions, medical negligence, civil rights claims, and other cases involving significant injuries and damages.

Over his career, Honick has tried more than one hundred cases to verdict and secured millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for individuals harmed by negligence. His recognition in the 2027 edition of The Best Lawyers in America® reflects the professional standing he has developed among fellow attorneys and legal professionals in Maryland.

Dustin Furman

Dustin Furman brings extensive trial experience to complex personal injury and medical negligence cases. His practice focuses on representing patients injured by medical errors, as well as individuals who have suffered life-altering injuries in commercial truck crashes and automobile accidents.

Furman is known for presenting complicated medical and technical evidence in a clear and compelling manner. His client-focused approach emphasizes personalized representation and close communication throughout each stage of litigation.

His inclusion in the 2027 edition of The Best Lawyers in America® further recognizes his work as a trial attorney representing individuals and families facing serious injuries and losses.

Peer-Reviewed Legal Recognition

The Best Lawyers in America® uses a peer-review process to identify attorneys who are highly regarded by other lawyers practicing in the same legal fields and geographic regions.

Recognition is based on professional evaluations from attorneys who have direct knowledge of a nominee’s work. The process is designed to identify lawyers who have demonstrated professional excellence and earned the respect of their peers.

Having both founding partners of Furman Honick Law recognized in the 2027 edition highlights the firm’s reputation for litigation and its commitment to representing individuals in high-stakes legal matters.

The settlements, which include cases involving motor vehicle crashes, premises liability, pedestrian injuries and medical malpractice, ranged from $250,000 to $4 million. Together, the 12 listed settlements total $14.6 million.

The recognition comes on the heels of another major 2025 result for the firm, where a Nassau County jury awarded $40.3 million to a 52-year-old man who suffered catastrophic injuries after two Long Island hospitals failed to properly treat his stroke. Finz & Finz represented the plaintiff in that medical malpractice case.

12 Finz & Finz Settlements Make New York Top 100

According to TopVerdict.com’s 2025 New York list, Finz & Finz attorneys secured the following settlements:

• No. 15: $4,000,000
• No. 23: $3,000,000
• No. 34: $1,900,000
• No. 52: $890,000
• No. 55: $800,000
• No. 59: $750,000 (twice)
• No. 64: $625,000
• No. 66: $575,000
• No. 67: $560,000
• No. 69: $500,000
• No. 83: $250,000

TopVerdict’s published list confirms several of the Finz & Finz entries, including the No. 52 $890,000 settlement, the No. 55 $800,000 settlement, two No. 59 settlements worth $750,000 each, the No. 64 $625,000 settlement, the No. 66 $575,000 settlement, the No. 67 $560,000 settlement, the No. 69 $500,000 settlement and the No. 83 $250,000 settlement.

The listed cases reflect the range of personal injury matters handled by the firm’s attorneys. The $890,000 result involved a motorcyclist injured in a collision involving allegations of government negligence and defective roadway design. The $800,000 settlement involved a security guard injured at a building, while the $750,000 settlements included a pedestrian struck by a van and a medical malpractice matter involving delayed diagnosis and treatment.

The $625,000 result involved a pedestrian struck by a motor vehicle. Other listed settlements included medical malpractice, premises liability and school-related injury claims.

A Major Year for Finz & Finz

The TopVerdict recognition adds another measure to the firm’s results in 2025. The firm’s case results include personal injury and medical malpractice matters involving serious injuries, wrongful death, motor vehicle crashes, workplace accidents and dangerous property conditions.

The $40.3 million medical malpractice verdict stands out among those results. According to reporting on the case, the Nassau County jury awarded $40.3 million after finding that the plaintiff suffered permanent disability following the failure to provide timely stroke treatment. This award is reported to be the second largest medical malpractice verdict in the history of Nassau County.

For Finz & Finz, these recognitions are about more than the size of individual awards.

“We are proud of the work our attorneys and staff put into every case,” said Brandon S. Finz of Finz & Finz. “These results reflect the time, preparation and commitment that go into representing people who have suffered serious injuries and families who have experienced devastating losses.”

TopVerdict.com says its 2025 New York list includes settlements from cases filed in state or federal court as well as matters settled before a lawsuit was filed, and with 2025 producing both a $40.3 million medical malpractice verdict and a dozen settlements recognized among New York’s top personal injury results, Finz & Finz continues with another year of significant case results to add to its record.

“Healthcare practice owners and entrepreneurs have invested heavily into the foundation of their business,” said Parag Amin, LawPLA Founder. “Even one dispute can challenge that livelihood. This new practice area will give businesses the guidance they need to keep everything they have worked for protected and on-track. It’s their legacy, and the ability to have a thriving business is part of the American dream.”

Practice owners face commercial legal challenges beyond medical malpractice, including partnership dissolutions, breach of fiduciary duty claims, practice sales, equity disputes, and restrictive covenants which can be complex, involving both ownership and operations. LawPLA will address these challenges by providing targeted legal strategies across healthcare niches, including dental practices, MedSpas, plastic surgery centers, orthodontics, and others.

When internal partnership disagreements or practice sales encounter challenges, the financial, legal, and operational consequences can significantly impact a healthcare professional’s investment in their practice. The firm’s focus remains on protecting the business assets, equity, and long-term legacies that healthcare owners have worked to build over the years.

“Medical practice disputes go beyond a simple business disagreement,” said Amin. “Practice owners work within a unique and complex legal landscape that includes regulations, particularly in California, where there are rules governing the corporate practice of medicine, licensing, revenue-sharing, and confidentiality guidelines. We don’t want a business to close or enter into a lengthy litigation due to lack of understanding, information, or guidance.”

As healthcare practices continue to evolve, including cash-pay and elective care models, practice owners are navigating complex relationships between partners, investors, vendors, and employees. By combining trial experience with an understanding of healthcare business structures, LawPLA will help practice owners pursue resolutions through courtroom litigation, negotiated settlements, or strategic partnership restructuring, so that practice owners can focus on their business.

Sammy Brown, an explosive and highly touted linebacker, is known for his discipline, work ethic, and exceptional off-the-field character. The dynamic Brown embodies the values that define Joye Law Firm Injury Lawyers: compassion, bravery, continuous improvement, and respect for the common good.

As part of this NIL partnership, Brown will collaborate with Joye Law Firm to help inspire the next generation of student-athletes and to raise awareness about the perils of distracted driving and lack of mutual respect on the roads that leads to hundreds of thousands of preventable crashes each year in the Palmetto state.

“Sammy is the kind of leader every team needs. He’s focused, humble, and completely committed to excellence,” said Ken Harrell, Managing Partner at Joye Law Firm. “We’re excited to support Sammy’s continued journey and work together to inform and uplift the communities we care about.”

Why This Partnership Matters

Joye Law Firm embarked on this NIL partnership with Sammy Brown for several important reasons, including:

Empowering Student-Athletes: NIL opportunities give college athletes like Sammy Brown the tools to build a sustainable future beyond football. This partnership affirms Joye Law Firm’s commitment to supporting student-athletes both on and off the field. Joye is also proud to be in its second year partnering with Carolina defensive back Dylan Stewart and has previously collaborated with Gamecocks linebacker Debo Williams and Coastal Carolina football standout Heston Edwards through NIL initiatives.

Inspiring South Carolinians: Collegiate student-athletes represent a model of perseverance and elite performance. Their stories of determination and resilience resonate with people across South Carolina and beyond.

Raising Legal Awareness: Through this partnership, Brown will help amplify Joye Law Firm’s mission to educate the public on their legal rights and responsibilities, while helping to prevent needless deaths and injuries from irresponsible decisions on our local roadways.

Joye Law Firm remains dedicated to giving back through its long-running “Joye in the Community” initiative, which has awarded over $300,000 in college scholarships and contributed hundreds of thousands of dollars to dozens of nonprofit partners, schools, and community programs throughout the state.

Edgar’s Farm, located at 3804 Pioneer Trail, offers equine-assisted services designed to support people with disabilities and other needs. Its programs include therapeutic riding and equine-facilitated mental health and learning services.

The farm’s therapeutic riding program serves about 70 riders each week. Riders learn horsemanship skills while taking part in activities tailored to their abilities. Participants range widely in age, with riders as young as 4 and a rider who reached age 88 last year.

Therapeutic riding can include grooming and bonding with horses, riding exercises, games and activities involving problem-solving or communication. Easterseals Florida describes the program as an approach designed to support development and quality of life for children with disabilities.

Edgar’s Farm also provides equine-facilitated mental health and learning services. Horses become part of a team that can include a licensed mental health professional and certified equine specialist. The farm offers individual and group sessions, and many of its mental health services work with preadolescents and adolescents.

“Edgar’s Farm creates opportunities for people to learn, connect and work toward their goals in a setting unlike a traditional classroom or counseling office,” said Allan Ziffra, President and Founding Partner of Rue & Ziffra. “We’re grateful for the chance to support this work and help Easterseals Florida continue serving families in our community.”

The visit is part of RZ Cares, Rue & Ziffra’s community initiative supporting local nonprofits, schools, businesses and families. The firm previously supported Easterseals Northeast Central Florida through RZ Cares in 2022 and they are proud to call the nonprofit friends of the firm.

For more information about Rue & Ziffra and the RZ Cares program, please visit https://rueziffra.com/

The event will take place on Friday, August 14, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM in the parking lot of GGL’s New Brunswick office at 235 Livingston Avenue. Admission is completely free for New Brunswick students and their families, and no registration is required. Backpacks will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.

This year’s event marks the largest Project Backpack distribution to date, growing from roughly 400 backpacks last year to 1,000 in 2026 and standing among the largest free school supply giveaways in Middlesex County. Each backpack comes stocked with the essentials students need to walk into the classroom prepared, confident, and ready to learn.

Beyond the backpacks, the afternoon is designed as a true community celebration. Families can enjoy free shaved ice from Kona Ice to cool off in the August heat, live music throughout the event with entertainment for kids and adults alike, and snacks and refreshments all afternoon. Students will also have the chance to meet Sir Henry the Scarlet Knight, the beloved Rutgers mascot, in person.

“Project Backpack is more than a giveaway. It is an investment in the next generation and a celebration of the community we are honored to serve,” said Lawrence A. LeBrocq, CEO and Managing Partner of Garces, Grabler & LeBrocq. “When a student walks into school on the first day with everything they need, they walk in with confidence. Removing that barrier for 1,000 New Brunswick families is exactly the kind of impact we want to have in our own backyard.”

GGL’s New Brunswick roots run deep, and Project Backpack reflects the firm’s belief that investing in education and providing resources to young learners strengthens the entire community. The initiative is presented in partnership with New Brunswick schools and local community organizations, and it joins the firm’s broader slate of community programs across New Jersey.

For more information about Project Backpack 2026, visit Garces, Grabler & LeBrocq | Project Backpack.

The American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys, known as AIOPIA, compiles its rankings through an independent selection process that includes research, peer nominations, and review of publicly available information, according to the organization’s published criteria. The “10 Best Law Firm” designation is limited to a small number of firms in each state.

In naming Briskman Briskman & Greenberg to its 2026 list, AIOPIA cited factors such as the firm’s record in personal injury matters, its standing within the legal community, and its focus on client communication. The recognition encompasses a range of personal injury work, including Chicago car accidents, medical malpractice, premises liability, and other related negligent claims.

While awards and rankings cannot predict outcomes in any particular case, they are often viewed within the legal profession as one measure of how a firm is regarded by clients and peers. Industry observers note that third-party listings such as AIOPIA’s “10 Best Law Firms” in Chicago can reflect broader trends in how personal injury practices adapt to changing client expectations, including demands for clearer communication, transparency in case strategy, and more accessible legal services.

Managing Member Paul Greenberg shared how, “For us, honors like this matter. We take pride in representing injured victims in all types of personal injury matters. Our goal is to listen and ensure their concerns are heard. Most likely, they’re going through one of the most difficult moments in their lives. This is why we give extra care, diligence, and respect to our clients.”

Inclusion in AIOPIA’s best law firms in Illinois list highlights firms that have maintained a visible and sustained presence in representing injured clients. More information about the American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys and its selection methodology is available here.

To learn more about the firm, visit https://www.briskmanandbriskman.com/.

These rideshare vouchers ensure that anyone celebrating on the 4th of July has alternative and safer means of getting home if they drink more than they plan to. Lone Star Injury Attorneys’ efforts to curb drunk driving accidents are one of many steps the team has taken to give back to the people that the firm serves.

To apply for a Lyft voucher before this year’s 4th of July celebrations, visit Lone Star Injury Attorneys’ website. Each ride pass is worth $15 and limited to one per person. You can claim a voucher before midnight on Thursday, July 3rd. 

Please include your full name, email address, and phone number when completing the applicant form found on Lone Star Injury Attorneys’ website. Voucher recipients will receive their ride pass via text message. Applicants from California and Texas may receive priority.

Recipients can use their vouchers to secure a ride through the Lyft app at any time on July 4th through 2 AM on July 5th. 

This voucher program is part of Lone Star Injury Attorneys’ larger commitment to safety within the communities it serves. The personal injury lawyers with Lone Star Injury Attorneys want to help curb the number of drunk driving accidents seen on major holidays, including the 4th of July, and are doing their part to offer party-goers safer means of getting home after celebrations.

If you have any questions about the availability of this year’s Lyft vouchers or how to use them, email info@lonestarinjuryattorneys.com.

Founded in October 2013, the firm has spent more than a decade serving injured individuals and families throughout South Florida. During that time, it has grown across the region while remaining focused on being available to clients, answering questions, and helping people understand their options after an accident.

The team is known for its emphasis on communication and responsiveness. Attorneys and staff work to keep clients informed throughout the legal process and encourage people to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible after an accident.

Over the years, the firm has recovered more than $275 million on behalf of clients and built a team with more than 40 years of combined legal experience. Those milestones reflect years of work representing people facing the challenges that often follow a serious injury.

The recognition is especially meaningful because it comes from the South Florida community the firm has served for more than twelve years. The attorneys and staff appreciate the support of clients, referral partners, and community members who have contributed to the firm’s growth over the years.

While the award marks an important achievement, the work continues. Every day, people throughout South Florida reach out looking for answers after an accident, and the team remains committed to being a resource when those questions arise.

The case involved a client who suffered a mild traumatic brain injury in a rear-end motor vehicle collision. Prior to trial, the law firm offered to settle the case within the injured client’s $250,000 insurance policy limits. However, the insurance company refused to accept the offer to settle, and thereafter the case proceeded to trial. As a result, the final judgment now exceeds $4.8 million and continues to grow through attorney’s fees and statutory interest until payment is made by the insurer.

“This result demonstrates the importance of standing up for injured clients when insurance companies refuse to act reasonably,” said Frank F. Fernandez III, founding partner of The Fernandez Firm Medical Malpractice Attorneys. “We gave the carrier every opportunity to resolve this matter fairly before trial. Our client suffered a significant brain injury, deserved justice, and we are very pleased the court upheld the jury’s verdict.”

Led by attorneys Frank F. Fernandez III and Jennifer Gentry Fernandez, the firm has built a statewide reputation for securing significant results on behalf of injury victims. Past successes include a $36.7 million medical malpractice verdict in Orlando, a $6.35 million settlement in a Tampa stroke case, a $2.6 million wrongful death recovery, and numerous seven-figure settlements for clients harmed by negligence.

As experienced Tampa personal injury lawyers, the attorneys at The Fernandez Firm emphasize personalized representation and trial readiness. The firm’s legal team believes that insurance companies should be held accountable when they fail to fairly compensate individuals who have suffered life-changing injuries.

“This case highlights why injured victims should seek experienced legal counsel as early as possible,” added Jennifer Gentry Fernandez. “When insurers undervalue legitimate claims, having a skilled trial team can make all the difference.”

The Fernandez Firm Medical Malpractice Attorneys serves clients throughout Florida with offices in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, Lakeland, and Orlando. The firm continues to fight for the rights of victims of serious accidents and medical negligence while helping families recover the compensation they deserve.

For more information about The Fernandez Firm Medical Malpractice Attorneys or to schedule a free consultation with a Tampa personal injury lawyer or medical malpractice attorney, visit the firm’s website.

CASE INFORMATION

Sarasota County
Preston Hines v. The Standard Fire Insurance Company
Case No. 2023-CA-1987 NC

The Eberst Advantage: Florida Accident & Injury Law Podcast is a podcast hosted by Jonathon T. Eberst, a personal injury attorney at The Eberst Law Firm, P.A. in Stuart, Florida, that covers car and truck crashes on I-95 and A1A, nursing-home neglect, denied hurricane claims, and the Florida personal injury claims process. Each episode takes one real Florida scenario and walks through how the insurance carrier is likely to handle it and how an injured person can build a stronger case. The episodes reflect the work The Eberst Law Firm does for clients on Florida’s east coast.

Eberst founded The Eberst Law Firm, P.A. on September 24, 2009, the day after his Florida Bar admission, and serves as its managing partner. He received a finance degree from the University of Florida and a law degree from Barry University School of Law in Orlando, where he received the book award for the highest grade in trial advocacy. He leads a team of 14 attorneys split between a pre-litigation group and a separate litigation and trial team, with offices in Stuart, Gainesville, and Daytona Beach, and the firm represents Florida east coast clients in car and truck crashes, nursing-home neglect, denied hurricane claims, and other personal injury and insurance disputes on a contingency-fee basis. The debut episode, “The YOU Interview w. Jonathon Eberst,” is available now.

“We help people when they need help the most. Unless you’re in this industry, unless you’re a personal injury attorney, you have no idea what step to take first when you’re in a car accident.”

Jonathon T. Eberst, managing partner and founder, The Eberst Law Firm, P.A.

Media Contact

Jonathon T. Eberst, managing partner and founder, The Eberst Law Firm, P.A., Stuart, Florida. Phone: 772-225-4900. Website: eberstlaw.com. Follow The Eberst Law Firm on Facebook, LinkedIn, and X.

Listen

Subscribe to The Eberst Advantage: Florida Accident & Injury Law Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. The debut episode, “The YOU Interview w. Jonathon Eberst,” is available now.