tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10996666339064845552024-02-21T11:51:35.376-05:00Legal Issues in North CarolinaFred DeVorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14365847933059523871noreply@blogger.comBlogger31125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1099666633906484555.post-71797709076497331772016-02-22T13:59:00.000-05:002016-02-22T13:59:14.974-05:00Tips for dealing with television service rate increases<br />
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<img alt="" class="spotlight" src="https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xtp1/v/t1.0-0/s480x480/12742440_1127781347262518_8791064317491094655_n.jpg?oh=827ae84b0c2758cdc9839eff59733e7f&oe=57665425" /></div>
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<br />
Did you just find out that Directv raised their rates between $4 and $8
per month? While this increase may be affordable, it is my no means
acceptable. You may be asking yourself, “if I'm under contract for
another year, how can they unilaterally raise rates (to presumably
whatever they want)?” By way of background, the FTC sued Directv back in
March for this exact issue, so the <span class="text_exposed_show">powers that be have taken notice. </span><br />
<div class="text_exposed_show">
<a href="http://dtv.xert.net/webView/tc/webview.cfm/7zBwXu8d26295281yfONRRdw" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://dtv.xert.net/…/…/webview.cfm/7zBwXu8d26295281yfONRRdw</a><br />
<br />
Nevertheless, Directv's terms and conditions explicitly state that the pricing is subject to change at anytime.<br /> <a href="http://dtv.xert.net/webView/tc/webview.cfm/7zBwXu8d26295281yfONRRdw" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://dtv.xert.net/…/…/webview.cfm/7zBwXu8d26295281yfONRRdw</a><br />
<br />
So your choices are to either pay the termination fee ($10 or $20 for
each month left on your contract) or pay the higher monthly rate.<br />
<br />
Contract litigators typically argue that these terms constitute an
unconscionable adhesion contract. Unfortunately, a few dollars a month
does not warrant filing suit. So what can you do?<br />
<br />
With a little
patience and about 30-40 minutes of free time, you can call your
provider and demand them to lower your rate. When you speak to the
initial person, tell them you're disputing your bill and that you'd like
to know what the cancellation fee is. He/she may try to sell you on
some better services/deals, but be patient and cordial and ask to talk
with an account specialist. When you reach the account specialist, find
out how many months you have left on your contract. Do some quick
crunching of the numbers and you'll discover that it's probably in your
best interest to pay the cancellation fee and purchase a new package
offered at the crazy low introductory rates (a spouse or roommate could
purchase from the same provider or you could choose a new provider).
Make the account specialist aware of your economic sense and advise them
that either they need to lower your monthly bill or you'd prefer to pay
the cancellation fee and purchase a new package at the lower advertised
rates.<br />
<br />
Once again, you may be pressed to purchase additional
channels at reduced prices or to downgrade your service for a minimal
monthly reduction. Stay patient but stand firm that you like your
current package and that you need a monthly fee reduction. Hopefully,
that will do the trick.<br />
<br />
Obviously, results are not guaranteed,
but if you are not keen on billion dollar companies taking advantage of
you, then it's worth a shot. <br />
</div>
<br />
This blog does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should not rely upon this blog for legal advice, but instead should consult an attorney experienced in your area of concern.<div class="blogger-post-footer">This blog does not create an attorney/client relationship.
If you have a legal question, you should consult an attorney.</div>Derek P. Adlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05901036725904800127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1099666633906484555.post-58347364919669003622015-01-28T08:51:00.003-05:002015-01-28T08:51:53.629-05:00Recent North Carolina Appellate Decisions<br />
<h1 class="page-title">
North Carolina Appellate Decisions</h1>
<article class="content">
<img alt="" class="contextual" src="http://www.devact.com/design/images/i-default.jpg" />
<strong> </strong><br />
<strong>Opinions of the North Carolina Court of Appeals</strong><br />
<strong> </strong><br />
<strong>January 20, 2015</strong><br />
<strong>Khwaja v. Khan</strong>,
COA 14-728. The plaintiff was a commercial tenant of the defendant
pursuant to a 15 year lease with an option to renew for 5-10 years. The
lease contained a provision that said that should the landlord/owner
ever attempt to sell the property, then the tenant would have the first
right of refusal. In late 2011, the defendant landlord asked the
plaintiff tenant if he had an interest in purchasing the property, but
the tenant did not. A short time later, the landlord actually entered
into a contract to sell and did sell the building to a third party.
Thereafter, the third party sold the building back to the original owner
and financed the purchase. When the tenant discovered the sale, he
filed suit to force the landlord to sell him the property for the amount
the building had originally been sold. When the landlord refused, the
tenant filed suit to force the sale. The trial judge ordered the
property to be sold to the tenant for the price sold to the third party.
However, the Court of Appeals reversed, holding that the provision in
the lease violated the Rule against Perpetuities. This Rule provides
that if it is possible for a grant of an interest in property could
occur more than 21 years, plus a life in being, then any provision
granting the future right is void. Therefore, there was no valid right
of first refusal.<br />
<strong>January 4, 2015</strong><br />
<strong>Bottom v. Bailey, COA 14-564</strong>.
The plaintiffs owned real property in Buncombe County. To help
facilitate a 1031 exchange, the plaintiffs used 1031 Exchange, LLC to
manage the funds. This company was owned by Bailey. Bailey had
accounts with Hometrust Bank and Morgan Stanley, a brokerage firm.
Bailey then used a check "kiting" scheme to pass funds between the
accounts, thus writing checks on accounts with insufficient funds.
Under this scheme $13,000,000 were affected, $224,000 of which belonged
to the plaintiff. When Bailey's fraud was finally discovered, and he
was indicted, the plaintiffs apparently had lost their funds. They
filed suit against Hometrust and Morgan Stanley alleging that they had a
duty to uncover the criminal conduct of Bailey. In affirming the trial
court's dismissal of the action, the Court held that a bank owes no
duty to a third person. Therefore, since the Bottoms were not customers
of either the bank or the investment firm, they had no standing to bring
an action.<br />
<strong>Carolina Marlin Club Marina Association v. Preddy. COA 14-377</strong>.
The defendants in this case owned one of seventy-three boat slips at
the plaintiff's marina. The marina's association was subject to the
North Carolina Condominium Act and was also governed by restrictions and
bylaws put in place by the original declarant. The marina was first
formed in the late 1980's and over time areas of the marina became
shallow due to sediment. The Association published notice of a meeting
for an assessment to dredge the marina and the assessment passed. The
defendant objected to the notice and refused to allow dredging to occur
under their slip. Although the defendants had objected to the notice,
the real issue was whether the slip was two dimensional or three
dimensional. The Court held that while the area between the moorings in
the slip belonged to the defendant, the slip was indeed two dimensional
and the Association maintained the ownership of the ground under the
water of the slip.<br />
<strong>Feltman v. City of Wilson, COA 14-585</strong>.
The plaintiff was a benefits manager for the City of Wilson. The
plaintiff discovered that her supervisor, Allen, was using city
employees to babysit her children during working hours and reported this
to the City. The City at first denied the accusations. However, the
plaintiff produced time stamped photographs of the cars of city
employees at Allen's home during the work day. The plaintiff contended
that after that, she was continually harassed at work and subject to
more restrictions and scrutiny than other employees. She was eventually
terminated. She brought an action for breach of the right of freedom
of speech and assembly and other constitutional issues. The trial court
dismissed the claims against the City for lack of specificity, but
certified the issue for immediate appeal. On appeal, the Court of
Appeals held that under notice pleading, the plaintiff had sufficiently
stated a cause of action and reversed the trial judge.<br />
<strong>Jackson v. Charlotte Mecklenburg Hospital Authority, COA 13-1338</strong>.
The Authority settled a lawsuit with a financial institution. The
settlement contained a confidentiality agreement. Attorney Gary Jackson,
on his own behalf, filed suit under the North Carolina Public Records
Act to discover the terms of the settlement. The Court held that the Act
was to be interpreted broadly, and reversed the trial judge in ordering
the settlement documents to be made public.<br />
<strong>Lacey v. Kirk, COA 14-688</strong>.
The defendant was the executrix of the will of Frances Longest. In the
will, 50% of the estate was left to her daughter, Kirk and 50% was left
to her grandchildren, the plaintiffs. It was alleged that Kirk
breached her fiduciary duty and defamed the plaintiffs by alleging,
among other things, that the plaintiffs had "murdered" the deceased.
The parties entered into a settlement agreement, which Kirk refused to
honor. The plaintiffs won compensatory and punitive damages. Kirk
alleged the trial judge made derogatory comments about her during the
trial, but the Court of Appeals found this to be harmless. The
plaintiffs cross appealed the judge's decision to reduce the plaintiff's
attorney fees which he reduced in lieu of the large punitive award. The
Court did reverse that decision indicating where the judge found the
fees to be reasonable, that just because there was a large punitive
damages award, should not be a reason to reduce the right to recover
those fees.<br />
<strong>Steele v. Bowden, COA 14-573</strong>.
Plaintiff, ex-husband, had possession of a vehicle co-owned with his
ex-wife which had been purchased before their marriage and subsequent
divorce. The husband agreed to pay off the existing car loan, but did
not do so. The ex-wife, defendant, then attempted to have the car
repossessed. During a high speed chase to get away from the tow truck,
the plaintiff wrecked the car. The defendant then repossessed the car
in a second attempt and had the damage repaired. When she refused to
pay for the repairs, the automobile repair company sold the car pursuant
to its mechanic's lien. Plaintiff husband sued for conversion and
trespass to personal property. The Court, in a divided decision,
affirmed summary judgment on the conversion issue, stating that since
both parties had the right of possession, repossession was not a remedy
available to the wife. Likewise, however, the trespass claim failed
because the wife had equal right to possess the vehicle.<br />
<strong>TSG Finishing, LLC v. Bollinger, COA14-623.</strong>
The Court of Appeals reversed the trial judge's decision to not grant a
preliminary injunction. It was alleged that Bollinger, a former
employee of TSG, provided information to his new employee, and
competitor, over certain textile coding methods used by TSG. He did so
after entering a non-compete agreement. Judge Murphy had ruled that
because the plaintiff could not establish the likelihood of success on
the merits, that the injunction should be denied. The Court of Appeals,
applying the tests for a preliminary injunction, disagreed and ordered
the matter remanded for the purposes of entering an injunction to
prevent further use of the confidential processes.<br />
<strong>Wright v. WakeMed, COA14-695</strong>.
Due to an error, the plaintiff received the wrong medication which she
contends caused her to become somnolent and lethargic. The plaintiff
sued under a theory of res ipsa loquitur. The defendant obtained a
dismissal at the trial court level for failure to file a Rule 9(j)
certification of medical negligence. In affirming the dismissal, the
Court of Appeals held that res ipsa loquitur only applied when there was
no direct evidence of negligence. In this case, there was direct
evidence of negligence. Furthermore, the Court held that expert
testimony was needed to prove that the plaintiff's condition was related
to ingestion of the wrong medication.<br />
<strong>Decision of the North Carolina Supreme Court</strong><br />
<strong>December 19, 2014</strong><br />
<strong>Hammond v. Saira Saini, MD, Plastic Surgery of Fayetteville. 492 PA 13</strong>.
The plaintiff was admitted into surgery for the removal of a possible
basal cell carcinoma from her face. During the operation, oxygen was
inadvertently allowed to build up under the tent of drapes over her
face. The oxygen ignited during the operation causing severe burns and
scarring to her face. After the fire, the hospital did its own
investigation into the fire. The plaintiff sought release of the
findings of their investigation but the hospital contended that the
information was protected under Section 131E-95 of the North Carolina
General Statutes which allows for confidentiality in proceedings of a
medical review committee. The hospital submitted an affidavit quoting
sections of the statute in an effort to establish a medical review
committee. The Court held that a recitation of the statute in the
pleadings was not factually specific to establish a medical review
committee and ordered the records released.<br />
<strong>Lunsford v. Crowder: 385 PA 13</strong>.
Lunsford was a volunteer fire fighter who responded to a tractor
trailer accident when the truck driver had lost control of his vehicle
and flipped. As Lunsford was attempting a rescue of the truck driver,
another vehicle struck Lunsford causing serious injuries. Lunsford filed
suit against the truck driver and the driver of the second vehicle.
The trucking company had a million dollar automobile liability policy.
The driver of the second vehicle had a $50,000 policy which it tendered.
At issue was whether Lunsford could make an underinsurance claim under
his own Farm Bureau automobile underinsurance claim, or whether he had
to wait until he received a tender offer from the trucker's carrier. In
reversing the Court of Appeals, the Supreme Court said that Lunsford
did not have to wait - that a tender of a single liability policy was
sufficient under the statute to trigger underinsurance coverage.
Otherwise, every injured person would have to sue every possible joint
tortfeasor before applying for their underinsurance coverage.<br />
<strong>Christie v. Hartley Construction: 359 A 13</strong>.
The plaintiffs were given a 20 year warranty on a stucco like product
for their home. The Court of Appeals held that notwithstanding the
express language of the 20 year warranty, that the 6 year statute of
repose trumped any claim made after 6 years. The Supreme Court reversed
the Court of Appeals and held that the 20 year warranty could be
enforced.<br />
<strong>Falk v. Fannie Mae: 197 PA13.</strong> N.C.
Gen. Stat. §45-37(b) provides that a prior lien, such as a deed of
trust, expires fifteen years from the later of two dates: (1) the date
on which the instrument requires performance; or (2) the date of
maturity of the last payment. For liens after October 2011, the fifteen
years can be extended by the recording of an affidavit. In this case,
which was decided under prior law, the fifteen year rule extinguishing
the lien applied.<br />
<strong>North Carolina Court of Appeals Decisions</strong><br />
<strong> </strong><br />
<strong>December 18, 2014</strong><br />
<strong>Debaun v. Kuszaj and City of Durham: COA 12-1520-2</strong>.
The plaintiff in this case was stopped by a police officer who
suspected him of being intoxicated. When the officer attempted to
handcuff the plaintiff, the plaintiff asked whether he was under arrest.
When he was told he was not under arrest, the plaintiff broke away
from the office and was "tasered." In his fall he suffered injuries.
Having been unable to prevail against the officer because of public
officer immunity, the plaintiff sought to make a claim directly under
the North Carolina Constitution. Such claims are allowed if there is no
other adequate remedy available. However, the Court said that since the
plaintiff had remedies, such as the excessive force claims, the
Constitutional claim could not survive. The fact that there are complete
defenses to the Constitutional claims does not make them inadequate
remedies.<br />
<strong>Charlotte Pavilion v. NC CVS Pharmacy: COA 14-658</strong>.
The owner of a 15 acre tract of land, contracted to lease two acres to
CVS Pharmacy and as a condition to the lease, agreed that no other
pharmacy could be developed on the remaining 13 acres. Walmart
purchased land adjacent to the 15 acres and purchased some of the
remaining 13 acres for its parking lot. Walmart has a pharmacy in the
store. The issue was whether the construction of the parking lot
violated the covenants and restricts against the development of a
competing pharmacy. The original owners filed a declaratory judgment
action to interpret the restriction. The Court of Appeals affirmed the
trial judge in holding that the parking lot for the Walmart did not
violate the covenants and restrictions.<br />
<strong>Tracey Cline v. David Hoke: COA14-428.</strong>
The plaintiff is a former district attorney against whom the State Bar
is investigating a grievance. The plaintiff sought certain emails from
the Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) through the Freedom of
Information Act in order to defend against the grievance. Hoke is the
assistant director of the AOC. While some emails were provided, the
plaintiff contended that she did not have access to all of her emails on
her computer which existed while she was a DA. Hoke was sued in his
individual and official capacity. The Court held that there was no right
to sue him individually. The Court also found that Hoke was not the
custodian of the plaintiff's personal emails, and therefore the case was
dismissed.<br />
<strong>NC Farm Bureau v. Burns: COA 14-741.</strong>
Plaintiff insurance company filed a declaratory judgment action to
determine whether injuries to minor child were covered in a commercial
general liability insurance policy. The 11 year old plaintiff was told
by his father, the owner of a grain company, to help his brothers clean a
storage area. The child fell into a hole used in the grain business
and his leg was caught and severed by a grain auger. Under the policy,
bodily injuries to a volunteer were covered. The term volunteer was
defined not to include injured persons who had "donated" their time. The
term "donated" was not defined. The insurance carrier took the
position that there was no coverage because the child donated his time
to the company. The Court concluded since the child was working at the
direction of his father that he had not donated his time, since the term
implies that someone donating his time has the option of working or not
working. The child under his father's control, did not have that
option, therefore, coverage existed.<br />
<strong>Pruett v. Bingham v. Wiggins and Mountain Home Fire & Rescue Dept.: COA14-191</strong>.
The plaintiff was injured when a vehicle driven by Bingham rear-ended
the vehicle in which he was driving. Bingham said that he was driving
on I-26 when a vehicle owned by Mountain Fire & Rescue and driven by
Wiggins, suddenly stopped in the inside lane of travel and attempted to
cross over at an emergency median. Wiggins was responding to an
emergency call. Bingham filed a third party complaint against Wiggins
and the emergency department. The third party complaint was dismissed
based on governmental immunity. The Court of Appeals affirmed the
dismissal in a 2-1 decision. The dissent argued that Wiggins had not
activated any of the emergency lights or flashers on the vehicle before
abruptly stopping in the lane of travel where the speed limit was 65
mph. The dissent argued that these acts violated the statute regarding
the operation of emergency vehicles and at least gave rise to a jury
question as to whether Wiggin's conduct was so reckless that it overcame
governmental immunity. In a second issue, Bingham contended that he
was unaware of the governmental immunity defense until a month before
trial. The Court held that it was error for Bingham not to move to
amend his third party complaint to address the immunity issue and that
when that motion was finally made, it was not timely.<br />
<strong>Town of Black Mountain v. Lexon Insurance: COA 14-740.</strong>
Lexon provided a subdivision bond to Buncombe County which agreed to
pay for certain infrastructure if the developer of the subdivision
became insolvent. The subdivision became annexed into the Town of Black
Mountain. After the builder became insolvent and unable to perform,
Black Mountain sought to enforce the bond. The carrier argued that its
contract was with the county, not the town, therefore the town did not
have standing to enforce the bond. The Court of Appeals disagreed and
said that the bond had been properly assigned from the county to the
town.<br />
<strong>Tucker v. Fayetteville State University: COA 14-178.</strong>
Tucker was the women's basketball coach at FSU for 16 years. He had a
contract of employment that provided that he could only be fired for
cause. After players complained of inappropriate language, assault on a
team member, and threats to terminate scholarships, the university
terminated him for cause. He filed suit for wrongful termination.
However, his employment contract required him to go through an
administrative appeal before filing suit. His failure to exhaust his
administrative remedies caused his lawsuit to be dismissed. Court of
Appeals affirmed the trial judge's dismissal.<br />
<strong>Wells Fargo Bank v. John Coreneal: COA 14-660</strong>.
When defendant debtor failed to make a balloon payment on a note
secured by a deed of trust, the bank sued for foreclosure. The defendant
counterclaimed for unfair and deceptive trade practices and other
claims - all of which were eventually dismissed by the trial judge. The
defendant then filed an immediate appeal. The Court of Appeals held
that the appeal was interlocutory and did not affect a substantial
right, therefore the appeal was dismissed.<br />
<strong> </strong><br />
<strong>December 2, 2014</strong><br />
<strong>Duke Energy v. Gray</strong>
14-283. Duke Energy maintained a 200 foot easement for its high
transmission wires. A developer subdivided a parcel next to the
easement for single family residences. A builder built a home on one of
the lots that adjoined the easement and Duke Energy contended that a
corner of the home encroached into the easement. Duke filed an action
against the owner of the home to have the home removed. The homeowner
sued the builder, who in turn, sued the surveyors. The Court held that
because the encroachment into the easement had existed more than six
years from the time that Duke knew, or should have known of the easement
- and the filing of the suit, that their claim was barred by the
statute of limitation. Our firm represented the builder.<br />
<strong>In Re Powell:</strong> 14-498. The Court of Appeals affirmed notice by posting was sufficient notice in a foreclosure proceeding.<br />
<strong>Mohr v. Matthews</strong>:
14-271. The 19 year deceased plaintiff, Sam, attended a cookout at
his grandparents' home. Also present was the deceased father and
stepmother. The grandparents and parents served Sam a substantial
amount of alcoholic beverages. There were other occasions where the
parents provided Sam with alcohol despite him being underage. At the
cookout, an argument arose of college expenses. After everyone but Sam
went to bed. Around 1:30, Sam drove a car away from the home, but before
he could get out of the neighborhood, his car hit a tree, burst into
flame and Sam was killed. His blood alcohol level was 0.17. The estate
filed a lawsuit against the grandparents and parents alleging negligence
in serving him alcohol. The defendants filed a motion to dismiss
claiming that contributory negligence barred the claim. At the motion,
the plaintiff argued that because of the special relationship between
parents and a child that the parents had a higher duty. However, the
Court of Appeals held this duty ended when Sam turned 18 and affirmed
the trial court's dismissal of the lawsuit.<br />
<strong>Ademovic v. Taxi:</strong>
USA - 14-356 When a taxi cab driver was shot at work, the issue arose
as to whether he was an employee with workers compensation benefits, or
an independent contractor. In reversing the Full Industrial Commission,
the Court of Appeals ruled that the driver was an independent
contractor and not entitled to workers compensation benefits.<br />
<strong>Clifford Wheeless, MD v. Maria Parham Medical Center</strong>:
14-612: The plaintiff physician filed an unfair and deceptive trade
practices claim against a hospital where he had consulting privileges
for alleging disclosing the contents of an earlier negative peer review.
Pursuant to the agreement of the parties, the peer review was to
remain confidential. In affirming the trial court's dismissal of the
claim, the Court of Appeals stated that unfair and deceptive trade
practices could not be brought against a "learned profession."<br />
<strong>Wilmoth v. Hemric</strong>:
14-459: The plaintiff observed two cows in his sister's garden. He
moved the cows to a nearby wooded area. Later that day, he observed the
same two cows near the sister's driveway. The plaintiff and his
brother-in-law went to search for the cows but could only find one. The
other one suddenly charged the plaintiff from behind causing him
serious injuries. The plaintiff called the person he thought owned the
cows, but had to leave a message. Eleven days later, one of the same
cows was struck and killed by a vehicle, and the cow was identified as
being owned by the person with whom the message was left. The plaintiff
sued the owner of the cows in negligence and obtained a $350,000
verdict. In reversing the trial court's decision to deny a directed
verdict, the Court held that the plaintiff had not proved sufficient
facts to establish negligence by the owner in failing to properly
maintain the cow's fence, or that the owner had knowledge before the
accident that the cows were out of the enclosure. Verdict was reversed.<br />
<strong>November 25, 2014</strong><br />
Barnes
v. Scull COA 14-264 - In a declaratory judgment action, the Court was
asked to interpret the provisions of a will where testator gave a life
estate in property to his wife and children. Upon the death of the wife
and children, the property was to be deeded to his heirs. The question
was whether the term "heirs" was to be determined at the time of the
testator's death or at the time of the death of the owners of the life
estate. While admitting that there is law supporting both arguments,
the Court of Appeals chose to follow the most recent Supreme Court case
which suggested that you determine the heirs at the time the owners of
the life estate died - and not at the time of the testator's death.<br />
Santiago
Estrada v. Zurich COA 14-468 - Estrada was injured on the job and made
an application for workers compensation benefits. His employer had
allowed his workers compensation insurance to lapse for non-payment of
the premium. After the accident, the employer renewed his policy and
Zurich agreed to retroactively reinstate the policy. However, Zurich
would not reinstate retroactively to the date of the accident.
Therefore, the Court concluded, there was no workers compensation
coverage at the time of the accident.<br />
Robertson v. Steris COA
14-253,254. Attorney Temple represented the plaintiffs in a workers
compensation action for over four years. After a settlement was
seemingly reached, the plaintiffs refused to abide by the agreement,
fired Temple, and hired a new attorney. Temple then filed a motion in
the existing action for payment of his attorney fees on a quantum meruit
(quasi-contract) theory (he did not have a written fee contract) - and
for interest on those fees. North Carolina General Statute §24-5
controls the award of interest. §24-5(a) applies to breach of contract
actions and interest begins to run from the date of breach. §24-5(b)
applies to pre-judgment interest on all other action, which begins to
run from the date of filing. Temple petitioned the Court for interest
under §24-5(a). The plaintiffs content that since the award of attorney
fees was in quasi-contract and not contract, the court erred in
awarding fees. However, the Court of Appeals found that this was a
clerical error and that Temple really meant to petition pursuant to
§24-5(b), therefore the error was correctable. The plaintiffs then
argued, that since Temple only filed a motion for attorney fees, and not
a separate lawsuit, that under §24-5(b), he was not entitled to
attorney fees, since fees under that section run from "the date of
filing." The Court of Appeals again disagreed, and determined that
filing a motion in the cause in the existing action was sufficient to
satisfy the requirements of §24-5(b).<br />
<strong>September 16, 2014</strong><br />
<strong><em>Adcox v. Clarkson:</em></strong> Commissioners' silence in order regarding attorney fees did not preclude recovery of attorney fees.<br />
<strong><em>Coll. Rd. v. Animal Hospital:</em></strong> Right of contribution exists once one debtor pays more than their pro rata share of judgment against multiple defendants.<br />
<strong><em>Crogan v. Crogan:</em></strong>
In action on separation agreement, tort claims, including fraud, are
governed by three year statute of limitations, but contract under seal
is still ten years. Plaintiff must allege date fraud was or should have
been discovered.<br />
<strong><em>Hyatt v. Mini Storage:</em></strong> While exculpatory language excusing negligence is disfavored, if the language is unambiguous, it will still be enforced.<br />
<strong><em>Inman v. City of Whiteville:</em></strong>
Where an investigating police officer failed to obtain identity of
motorist who negligently forced another vehicle off the road, the public
duty doctrine bars recovery against the police department.<br />
<strong><em>**Trillium Ridge Condominium v. Trillium Construction Company:</em></strong>
The case arises out of discovered defects by homeowners association and
its claim against original builder and developer. Court held that (1)
unless admitted, the statute of limitations is a question of fact for
the jury; (2) the gross negligence requires pleading of specific acts;
(3) plaintiff must allege action brought within SOL; (4) although
statute of repose is 6 years from date of substantial completion, if
original construction contract provided for warranty repairs, the SOR
may begin to run from the date of those repairs – if those repairs were
defective; (5) although there is a 6 year statute of repose, where the
developer remains on the HOA Board, there may be a continuing statutory
duty to disclose known defects which is an exception to the 6 year SOR;
and (7) individuals employed by developer who sat on Board for HOA, may
be personally liable for breach of a fiduciary duty when they did not
disclose construction defects to the Board.<br />
<strong><em>Cut N Up Hair Salon v. Bennett:</em></strong>
Court held (1) Injunction to enforce covenant not to compete affects a
substantial right and is immediately appealable; (2) five year
restriction on competition within a 50 mile radius was reasonable.<br />
<strong><em>Gregory v. Old Republic:</em></strong>
Plaintiff died as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning. Decedent had
criminal convictions which the judge excluded from the jury pursuant to a
motion in limine. However, during the course of the trial, plaintiff's
attorney put on evidence of what a good father he was, so the judge
allowed the admission of the criminal convictions. Court of Appeals
found no error.<br />
<strong><em>Commscope Credit Union v. Butler and Burke, LLP, COA 14-273 (November 4, 2014)</em></strong>
Plaintiff credit union sued their audit firm based on a breach of a
fiduciary relationship theory, among other theories. The trial court
ruled that no fiduciary relationship existed and dismissed the case
pursuant to Rule 12(b)(6). In reversing the trial court's the Court of
Appeal held that while just being an accountant for the credit union
would not have given rise to a fiduciary relationship, the fact that the
accountants were hired to perform an audit created a higher burden on
the defendant and thus stated a cause of action.<br />
<strong><em>Neil v. Kuester Real Estate Services, COA 14-513 (November 4, 2014)</em></strong>.
The Court of Appeals affirmed the trial court's decision not to
certify a class of Appalachian students who claimed a violation of the
North Carolina Security Deposit Act.<br />
<strong><em>Daniel Skinner v. Wake Forest Law School, COA 14-325.</em></strong>
Skinner, a Wake Forest Law Student, received a scholarship to attend
law school. A condition of the financial aid was the Skinner remained
in the top two-thirds of his class. When his rank fell below
two-thirds, he challenged the right of the school to alter his
scholarship. He complained to all levels of administration within the
school. One of the administrators provided him with a letter, copied to
other administrators that stated while Skinner certainly had the right
to appeal decisions about his scholarship, he must do so without
violating the school's Code of Conduct. It was alleged that Skinner had
claimed a conspiracy among the administrators and had emailed his
classmates to join him in trying to remove the dean of the law school.
Skinner filed a pro se complaint alleging libel. The Court of Appeals
affirmed the trial judge's dismissal of the lawsuit, holding, "'Libel
per se is a publication which, when considered alone without explanatory
circumstances: (1) charges that a person has committed an infamous
crime; (2) charges a person with having an infectious disease; (3) tends
to impeach a person in that person's trade or profession; or (4)
otherwise tends to subject one to ridicule, contempt or disgrace.'"
Plaintiff failed to meet this test.<br />
<strong><em>Governmental Immunity:</em></strong>
Bynum v. Wilson Cnty., 758 S.E.2d 643 (N.C.) reh'g denied, 761 S.E.2d
904 (N.C. 2014) Pedestrian brought action against Wilson County after
he allegedly fell down the front exterior stairs of a county building,
suffering paralysis in both legs and an arm. He died before trial. In
this case, Wilson County had leased a building for several of its
offices, including the water department. After paying his bill, the
plaintiff fell on the stairs of the leased building and filed suit
alleging, among other things, that the County failed to maintain the
stairs and that the stairs did not comply with the building code. The
County’s motion for summary judgment based on governmental immunity was
allowed at the trial court level, reversed by the Court of Appeals, but
then reinstated by the Supreme Court.<br />
In allowing summary
judgment, the Court explained that in determining when governmental
immunity applies, the Court must make a determination as to what is
considered a governmental activity or a proprietary activity. If it is a
governmental activity, then governmental immunity applies. The
difference in the two activities is that a governmental function is an
action by the government in the ordinary course of business. A
proprietary action is where the governmental unit is acting more in the
nature of a commercial business. An example of a proprietary activity
might be a county charging parking fees at the county fair to raise
money. If an injury was related to that activity, immunity would not
apply.<br />
Immunity can also be waived by the purchase of insurance or the failure of a city or county to comply with a safety statute.<br />
Inman
v. City of Whiteville, 763 S.E.2d 332 (N.C. Ct. App. 2014). In another
immunity type case, an injured motorist brought action against city of
Whiteville, alleging that city police officers were negligent in their
accident investigation because they failed to ascertain the identity of
driver who allegedly ran motorist off the road. It is alleged that the
person who caused the accident was interviewed by the investigating
officer, but the officer failed to record the person’s name on the
accident form. Two plaintiffs were severely injured when their car was
forced off of the road. In affirming the trial court’s granting of the
officer’s summary judgment motion, the Court of Appeals relied on the
Public Duty Doctrine. This doctrine basically says that a police
officer owes no duty to the public at large. There are two exceptions:
(1) if a special relationship has been created with the police (i.e. an
informant is assisting the police; or (2) the police promise protection
to a person and does not provide it. In this case, the Court ruled
neither exception applied.<br />
<strong><em>Service on Uninsured Carrier:</em></strong>
Kahihu v. Brunson, 758 S.E.2d 648 (N.C. Ct. App. 2014). In this case,
plaintiff’s counsel obtained an entry of default against an uninsured
motorist. The attorney said via affidavit, that he served the
uninsurance carrier with a copy of the complaint and summons via
certified mail. However, the registered agent of the insurance company
who signed for the documents, said that the carrier was only served with
an amended complaint and no summons. The Court said that the failure
of the plaintiff to prove service of the complaint and the summons
entitled the uninsurance carrier to a directed verdict, thus eliminating
any insurance coverage.<br />
</article><br />
<br />
<br />
This blog does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should not rely upon this blog for legal advice, but instead should consult an attorney experienced in your area of concern.<div class="blogger-post-footer">This blog does not create an attorney/client relationship.
If you have a legal question, you should consult an attorney.</div>Fred DeVorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14365847933059523871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1099666633906484555.post-12062518061828957062014-09-16T09:47:00.001-04:002014-09-16T09:47:15.525-04:00Court of Appeal Decisions - September 16, 2014<br />
Below are summaries of some of the major decision of the North Carolina Court of Appeals for September 16, 2014.<br />
<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">North Carolina Court of Appeals Opinions</b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">September 16, 2014</b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Published</b></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Adcox v. Clarkson</i>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Commissioners’ silence in order regarding
attorney fees did not preclude recovery of attorney fees.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Coll. Rd. v. Animal
Hospital</i>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Right of contribution
exists once one debtor pays more than their pro rata share of judgment against
multiple defendants.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Crogan v. Crogan</i>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In action on separation agreement, tort
claims, including fraud, are governed by three year statute of limitations, but
contract under seal is still ten years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Plaintiff
must allege date fraud was or should have been discovered.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Hyatt v. Mini Storage</i>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While exculpatory language excusing
negligence is disfavored, if the language is unambiguous, it will still be
enforced.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Inman v. City of
Whiteville</i>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Where an investigating
police officer failed to obtain identity of motorist who negligently forced
another vehicle off the road, the public duty doctrine bars recovery against
the police department.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
**<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Trillium Ridge
Condominium v. Trillium Construction Company</i>: The case arises out of
discovered defects by homeowners association and its claim against original
builder and developer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Court held that
(1) unless admitted, the statute of limitations is a question of fact for the
jury; (2) the gross negligence requires pleading of specific acts; (3)
plaintiff must allege action brought within SOL; (4) although statute of repose
is 6 years from date of substantial completion, if original construction
contract provided for warranty repairs, the SOR may begin to run from the date
of those repairs – if those repairs were defective; (5) although there is a 6
year statute of repose, where the developer remains on the HOA Board, there may
be a continuing statutory duty to disclose known defects which is an exception
to the 6 year SOR; and (7) individuals employed by developer who sat on Board
for HOA, may be personally liable for breach of a fiduciary duty when they did
not disclose construction defects to the Board.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Unpublished</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Cut N Up Hair Salon v.
Bennett</i>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Court held (1) Injunction
to enforce covenant not to compete affects a substantial right and is
immediately appealable; (2) five year restriction on competition within a 50
mile radius was reasonable.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Gregory v. Old
Republic</i>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Plaintiff died as a result
of carbon monoxide poisoning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Decedent
had criminal convictions which the judge excluded from the jury pursuant to a
motion in limine. However, during the course of the trial, plaintiff’s attorney
put on evidence of what a good father he was, so the judge allowed the admission
of the criminal convictions. Court of Appeals found no error.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
This blog does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should not rely upon this blog for legal advice, but instead should consult an attorney experienced in your area of concern.<div class="blogger-post-footer">This blog does not create an attorney/client relationship.
If you have a legal question, you should consult an attorney.</div>Fred DeVorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14365847933059523871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1099666633906484555.post-59697032288536099552014-06-20T13:01:00.000-04:002016-01-29T10:58:53.951-05:00Do you know Mickey Moore?<script src="http://www.wcnc.com/templates/belo_embedWrapper.js?storyid=263901081&pos=top&swfw=470"></script><object data="http://swfs.bimvid.com/player-3.2.15.swf" height="264" id="_fp_0.10796135943382978" name="player" nbsp="" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="470"> <param value="true" name="allowfullscreen"/> <param value="always" name="allowscriptaccess"/> <param value="transparent" name="wmode"/> <param value="high" name="quality"/> <param name="movie" value="http://swfs.bimvid.com/player-3.2.15.swf" /> <param value="config=http://www.wcnc.com/?j=embed_263901081&ref=http://www.wcnc.com/news/iteam/Do-you-know-Mickey-Moore-263901081.html" name="flashvars"/></object><script src="http://www.wcnc.com/templates/belo_embedWrapper.js?storyid=263901081&pos=bottom&ref=http://www.wcnc.com/news/iteam/Do-you-know-Mickey-Moore-263901081.html"></script><br />
<br />
This blog does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should not rely upon this blog for legal advice, but instead should consult an attorney experienced in your area of concern.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.avvo.com/attorneys/28207-nc-derek-adler-1955211.html?cm_mmc=Avvo-_-Avvo_Badge-_-Micro-_-1955211" rel="me"><img alt="Avvo - Rate your Lawyer. Get Free Legal Advice." id="avvo_badge" src="http://www.avvo.com/assets/microbadge.png" /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer">This blog does not create an attorney/client relationship.
If you have a legal question, you should consult an attorney.</div>Derek P. Adlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05901036725904800127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1099666633906484555.post-87920060937514175782014-06-04T10:27:00.000-04:002014-06-04T10:28:00.068-04:00Insurance Bad Faith Hits Poor Families the HardestOur firm has litigated numerous insurance bad faith cases representing clients across the board. In terms of property claims, these cases have ranged from multi-million dollar losses to corporate buildings, to million dollar losses to large wealthy homes, to minor losses to small private homes. Invariably, however, the smaller losses to indigent families are the most troubling.<br />
<br />
Bottom line, insurance companies make money by denying claims or limiting payment on claims. For large companies and wealthy individuals, a denied insurance claim can be just a small headache. But for a single parent with two jobs whose roof is leaking and plumbing is not operational, the headache can turn into a debilitating nightmare.<br />
<br />
If your insurance claim is denied or payment is minimal, it is important to have an attorney review your insurance contract and any communications from your insurance company regarding the denial. If the damage to your home is a covered loss, depending on your type of coverage, you are entitled to either the actual cash value of the damage or replacement value.<br />
<br />
Additionally, Chapter 58 of the North Carolina General Statutes requires that all insurance companies operate in good faith with respect to claims made by their insureds. This includes requirements such as: affirming or denying coverage in a prompt manner; promptly investigating your claim; not denying a claim for an improper purpose; not providing justification as basis for denial of a claim, etc. <br />
<br />
Do your homework any time you make an insurance claim. Insurance companies have a duty to their insured and the laws of North Carolina interpret insurance contracts in favor of the insured and in favor of coverage. <br />
<br />
<br />
This blog does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should not rely upon this blog for legal advice, but instead should consult an attorney experienced in your area of concern.<div class="blogger-post-footer">This blog does not create an attorney/client relationship.
If you have a legal question, you should consult an attorney.</div>Derek P. Adlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05901036725904800127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1099666633906484555.post-14557502971527066852014-05-27T10:10:00.001-04:002014-05-27T10:11:38.939-04:00Monroe Bypass back on trackThe North Carolina Department of Transportation recently announced that after much delay, it is going to proceed with the Monroe Bypass. This will be a 20 mile toll four lane road that runs approximately from Stallings to almost Marshville. (<a href="http://www.ncdot.gov/projects/monroeconnector/" target="_blank">See Map</a>). The NCDOT has created a<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s-OKD3fLA0A" target="_blank"> flyover</a> of what the proposed road will look like. The project website may be found by clicking <a href="http://www.ncdot.gov/projects/monroeconnector/" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
<br />
If you are property owner in the path of the new road, you have the absolute right to be paid for your property considering its highest and best use. You may want to seek legal advice before entering into any agreement with the NCDOT.<br />
<br />
Common questions are:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Do I have to accept the State's offer?</li>
<li>Do I need an appraiser?</li>
<li>How long does it take to go to Court?</li>
<li>Do I need an attorney?</li>
<li>When do I get paid?</li>
<li>If there is mortgage on the property, how is that handled?</li>
<li>What if the roadway impacts other property I own nearby? </li>
</ul>
<br />
In most cases, our firm will provide a free initial consultation to assist you in making decisions about your property. Visit us at www.devact.com or call 704-377-5242 and ask for Will or Fred DeVore. <br />
<br />
<br />
This blog does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should not rely upon this blog for legal advice, but instead should consult an attorney experienced in your area of concern.<div class="blogger-post-footer">This blog does not create an attorney/client relationship.
If you have a legal question, you should consult an attorney.</div>Fred DeVorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14365847933059523871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1099666633906484555.post-83480983166030457522014-02-04T10:35:00.000-05:002014-02-04T10:35:04.026-05:00Does a builder have insurance if a building has defects? Beware builders and owners!<br />
Most builders or contractors have a commercial general liability ("CGL") insurance policy for a particular project. It is often required by the construction lender. However, whether this policy actually affords any meaningful insurance to either the contractor or the owner is another question.<br />
<br />
Much to the surprise of builders and owners, construction defects are generally NOT covered by either a CGL policy or the owner's homeowners policy (or business policy). The example we often give clients is that if your roof leaked as a result of a construction defect, the insurance company <u>might</u> pay for the damage the leak caused, but not the cost of repairing the leak.<br />
<br />
Reduced to the most basic terms, a CGL policy will only cover losses caused by an "occurrence" not a defect. An occurrence could be a fire or storm, for example, that occurs while the builder is working on the project. It would also likely cover personal injuries suffered by third parties on the job.<br />
<br />
Several years ago, CGL policies provided additional insurance for subcontractors on the job. Under these older policies, if a contractor was negligent, it might be covered under the policy. However, in more recent years that coverage has been written out of the policy and can only be acquired by purchasing a separate endorsement from the insurance company.<br />
<br />
For builders who find themselves without coverage and facing a substantial claim - bankruptcy may be the only alternative which is terrible news for both the contractor and the owner.<br />
<br />
Email <a href="mailto:fdevore@devact.com">me</a> if you have other questions.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/0ydGHs7Mw3w?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
This blog does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should not rely upon this blog for legal advice, but instead should consult an attorney experienced in your area of concern.<div class="blogger-post-footer">This blog does not create an attorney/client relationship.
If you have a legal question, you should consult an attorney.</div>Fred DeVorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14365847933059523871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1099666633906484555.post-39096873435311803902014-02-04T10:19:00.001-05:002014-02-04T10:36:21.708-05:00What are the laws regarding a wrongful death recovery?<br />
There is no more difficult case than one where a loved one has been lost due to the negligence of another. How can you begin to place a monetary value or something that is priceless?<br />
<br />
When faced with a wrongful death situation, here is an outline of the steps that will need to be taken.<br />
<br />
1. You must open an estate. This is done by going to the Clerk of Court in the county where the person lived or died, and making an application to open the estate. If the person who died left a will, then the person appointed in the will to serve as executor will be responsible for opening the estate. If the person died without a will, then the Clerk will appoint the next of kin to serve as the administrator of the estate, after getting the consent of the other heirs.<br />
<br />
2. Once the estate is opened, the Clerk will issue "Letters of Testamentary". These "Letters" are somewhat like a power of attorney and it authorizes you to manage the affairs of the estate - from paying creditors to collecting the assets of the estate and distributing them.<br />
<br />
3. North Carolina General Statute <a href="http://www.ncleg.net/gascripts/statutes/statutelookup.pl?statute=28A-13-3">28A-13-3</a> gives the executor or administrator the exclusive right and responsibility for bringing a wrongful death claim. The statute of limitations to bring a legal action to recover for wrongful death is two years from the date of death.<br />
<br />
4. What may be recovered in such an action is also set forth in the statute. What may be considered in evaluating such a claim are:<br />
<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> (1) Expenses for care, treatment and hospitalization
incident to the injury resulting in death; </span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="I454C23305F9F11DEA6E5EB3BC74BD593"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="I454852A05F9F11DEA6E5EB3BC74BD593"></a> (2) Compensation for pain and suffering of the decedent; </span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="I454CE6805F9F11DEA6E5EB3BC74BD593"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="I454852A15F9F11DEA6E5EB3BC74BD593"></a> (3) The reasonable funeral expenses of the decedent; </span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="I454D82C05F9F11DEA6E5EB3BC74BD593"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="I454852A25F9F11DEA6E5EB3BC74BD593"></a> (4) The present monetary value of the decedent to the
persons entitled to receive the damages recovered, including but not limited to
compensation for the loss of the reasonably expected; </span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="I454E1F005F9F11DEA6E5EB3BC74BD593"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="I454852A35F9F11DEA6E5EB3BC74BD593"></a> a. Net income of the
decedent, </span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="I454EE2505F9F11DEA6E5EB3BC74BD593"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="I454852A45F9F11DEA6E5EB3BC74BD593"></a> b. Services, protection, care
and assistance of the decedent, whether voluntary or obligatory, to the persons
entitled to the damages recovered, </span></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="I454F7E905F9F11DEA6E5EB3BC74BD593"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="I454852A55F9F11DEA6E5EB3BC74BD593"></a></span> </div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"> c. Society,
companionship, comfort, guidance, kindly offices and advice of the decedent to
the persons entitled to the damages recovered; </span></span><br />
<br />
4. Proceeds from a wrongful death statute are distributed to the deceased person's heirs pursuant to a statute and regardless of whether the person had a will. Any money recovered is distributed as if the person died without a will. Also, any proceeds that you may recover may not be used to be creditors of the estate (except for some limited funeral and medical expenses). However, if the person lived and was conscious before he or she died, the estate may also be entitled to recover for personal injuries (medical expenses, pain and suffering, etc.) in addition to a wrongful death recovery. In this case, the funds do pass through the estate (under the will, if one exists).<br />
<br />
5. If a settlement is reached in a wrongful death action, it must be approved by all of the heirs or by court order. (Court approval is always required if an heir is a minor).<br />
<br />
If you have additional questions, email <a href="mailto:fdevore@devact.com">me</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/6LImLB3shdM?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
This blog does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should not rely upon this blog for legal advice, but instead should consult an attorney experienced in your area of concern.<div class="blogger-post-footer">This blog does not create an attorney/client relationship.
If you have a legal question, you should consult an attorney.</div>Fred DeVorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14365847933059523871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1099666633906484555.post-66138825559793391122014-02-04T09:15:00.002-05:002014-02-04T09:46:02.902-05:00Make sure that your automobile insurance policy has underinsurance coverage in the event of an automobile accident.<br />
<br />
Did you know that in North Carolina, a person is only required to have $30,000 in automobile liability insurance coverage? With the rising cost of health care and mandatory diagnostic medical procedures, a person seriously injured in an automobile accident may face medical expenses in excess of $30,000 in a matter of a day or two. That is why it is imperative that your insurance policy contain underinsurance coverage, sometimes called UIM.<br />
<br />
UIM coverage means that if the person who caused the accident does not have enough insurance to pay you for your medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, disability, etc., then your policy will provide you with additional coverage - up to a million dollars. <br />
<br />
Buy UIM is not required in North Carolina and there is an additional premium to have it included in your policy. However, the increased premium is well worth it. Furthermore, if you make make a UIM claim, it will not increase your premium or affect your insurance in any way.<br />
<br />
In making a UIM claim, one must be very careful. Oftentimes the injured party will mistakenly give a release to the insurance company that insured the person that caused the wreck. When this occurs, your right to make a UIM claim may be lost.<br />
<br />
If you have questions about this, email me at <a href="mailto:fdevore@devact.com">Fred DeVore</a> visit us at <a href="http://www.devact.com/">DeVore, Acton & Stafford, Attorneys at Law</a>.<br />
<br />
This blog does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should
not rely upon this blog for legal advice, but instead should consult an
attorney experienced in your area of concern. <br />
<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">This blog does not create an attorney/client relationship.
If you have a legal question, you should consult an attorney.</div>Fred DeVorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14365847933059523871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1099666633906484555.post-17022671321898196692013-10-23T15:53:00.001-04:002014-02-04T10:22:33.974-05:00Spilled coffee in lap at McDonaldsThis blog does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should not rely upon this blog for legal advice, but instead should consult an attorney experienced in your area of concern.<br />
<br />
Invariably when we pick a jury, there will some reference to the lady who won "millions" of dollars from McDonalds when she spilled coffee in her lap. The reporting of this incident was perhaps the most skewed reporting I have ever seen and was part of a political agenda for tort reform. Please take a minute and look at this video:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.upworthy.com/ever-hear-about-the-lady-that-spilled-coffee-on-herself-at-mcdonalds-then-sued-for-millions?g=2&c=ufb1">The real story about the lady with the coffer burn.</a><br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">This blog does not create an attorney/client relationship.
If you have a legal question, you should consult an attorney.</div>Fred DeVorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14365847933059523871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1099666633906484555.post-23136686215989555782013-10-23T14:35:00.000-04:002013-10-23T14:37:42.920-04:00Insurance Bad FaithThis blog does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should not rely upon this blog for legal advice, but instead should consult an attorney experienced in your area of concern.<br />
<br />
Chapter 58 of the North Carolina General Statues prohibits an insurance company from doing certain wrongful acts. More specifically, the statute is called the Unfair Claim <span id="co_term_2278">Settlement</span> <span id="co_term_2279">Practices</span><br />
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N.C. Gen. Stat. Ann. § 58-63-15. </div>
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Unfortunately, these claims cannot be brought against someone else's insurance company, but only your insurance company. If there is a single violation of the Act, the insured is entitled to recover treble damages and attorney fees under Unfair and Deceptive Trade Practices Act (Chapter 75 of the North Carolina General Statutes). </div>
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The acts that are prohibited include:</div>
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a. Misrepresenting pertinent facts or insurance policy provisions relating to coverages at issue;</div>
</div>
</div>
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<div class="co_paragraph" id="co_anchor_I5E6E32245FAB11DEAB19D7329368DEDD" style="border-color: black; border-style: none; border-width: 0px; font-size: 100%; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
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b. Failing to acknowledge and <span id="co_term_2343">act</span> reasonably promptly upon communications with respect to claims arising under insurance policies;</div>
</div>
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c. Failing to adopt and implement reasonable standards for the prompt investigation of claims arising under insurance policies;</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="co_contentBlock co_subsection" style="border-color: black; border-style: none; border-width: 0px; font-size: 100%; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 1.0em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
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d. Refusing to pay claims without conducting a reasonable investigation based upon all available information;</div>
</div>
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e. Failing to affirm or deny coverage of claims within a reasonable time after proof-of-loss statements have been completed;</div>
</div>
</div>
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f. Not attempting in good faith to effectuate prompt, <span id="co_term_2423">fair</span> and equitable <span id="co_term_2426">settlements</span> of claims in which liability has become reasonably clear;</div>
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g. Compelling the insured to institute litigation to recover amounts due under an insurance policy by offering substantially less than the amounts ultimately recovered in actions brought by such insured;</div>
</div>
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h. Attempting to settle a claim for less than the amount to which a reasonable man would have believed he was entitled;</div>
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i. Attempting to settle claims on the basis of an application which was altered without notice to, or knowledge or consent of, the insured;</div>
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j. Making claims payments to insureds or beneficiaries not accompanied by a statement setting forth the coverage under which the payments are being made;</div>
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k. Making known to insureds or claimants a policy of appealing from arbitration awards in favor of insureds or claimants for the purpose of compelling them to accept <span id="co_term_2569">settlements</span> or compromises less than the amount awarded in arbitration;</div>
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l. Delaying the investigation or payment of claims by requiring an insured claimant, or the physician, of or either,<sup id="co_footnoteReference_I5E838EE05FAB11DEAB19D7329368DEDD_ID0E1FAE" style="bottom: 0.5em; height: 0px; line-height: 1px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0.2em; padding-right: 0.2em; padding-top: 0px; position: relative; vertical-align: baseline;">1</sup> to submit a preliminary claim report and then requiring the subsequent submission of formal proof-of-loss forms, both of which submissions contain substantially the same information;</div>
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m. Failing to promptly settle claims where liability has become reasonably clear, under one portion of the insurance policy coverage in order to influence <span id="co_term_2652">settlements</span> under other portions of the insurance policy coverage; and</div>
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n. Failing to promptly provide a reasonable explanation of the basis in the insurance policy in relation to the facts or applicable law for denial of a claim or for the offer of a compromise <span id="co_term_2698">settlement</span>.</div>
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N.C. Gen. Stat. Ann. § 58-63-15 (West)</div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">This blog does not create an attorney/client relationship.
If you have a legal question, you should consult an attorney.</div>Fred DeVorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14365847933059523871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1099666633906484555.post-23633196082686158882013-10-23T14:28:00.002-04:002013-10-23T15:13:14.193-04:00Police Officers cannot use unreasonable forceThis blog does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should not rely upon this blog for legal advice, but instead should consult an attorney experienced in your area of concern.<br />
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Police officers often risk their lives to protect the public. They are appropriately respected and deserve the appreciation of all of us. Yet there are times in which a police officer uses unreasonable force in investigating a crime or making an arrest. Police officers have immunity from prosecution for ordinary force that must be used in the course of their work. However, the United States Constitution requires that the use of force must be reasonable - especially when it comes to the use of deadly force. The leading case on this law is GRAHAM v. CONNOR, 490
U.S. 386 (1989).<b>
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<b></b> <div class="blogger-post-footer">This blog does not create an attorney/client relationship.
If you have a legal question, you should consult an attorney.</div>Fred DeVorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14365847933059523871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1099666633906484555.post-78541918453815934782013-07-10T11:29:00.000-04:002013-07-10T11:54:37.460-04:00DeVore, Acton & Stafford, P.A. Moving Law Office to Queens Road<br />
On July 21, 2013, the law firm of DeVore, Acton & Stafford, P.A., a prominent firm in the Charlotte area for over twenty years, is proudly relocating its law offices to 438 Queens Road, Charlotte, NC 28207, the former location of the Mecklenburg County Bar. The firm will occupy the entire 100-year old historic house and recently constructed annex.<br />
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True to its history and mission, the firm will continue to specialize in civil litigation, including but not limited to: catastrophic injury, wrongful death, contract and property disputes, construction litigation, as well as medical malpractice and workers compensation. <br />
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The rest of the firm's contact information will remain the same.<br />
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<a href="https://maps.google.com/maps?oe=utf-8&client=firefox-a&q=438+queens+road+charlotte+nc&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x88569ff21276a3e3:0x6162badb5d3b9ea8,438+Queens+Rd,+Charlotte,+NC+28207&gl=us&ei=XYPdUdCUKdCNrQGuhYGQBA&ved=0CC8Q8gEwAA" target="_blank">Directions</a></div>
<a href="http://www.devact.com/">www.devact.com</a><br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">This blog does not create an attorney/client relationship.
If you have a legal question, you should consult an attorney.</div>Derek P. Adlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05901036725904800127noreply@blogger.com0438 Queens Road, Charlotte, NC 28207, USA35.207473 -80.8278549.6854385 -122.136448 60.7295075 -39.51926tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1099666633906484555.post-91517622250391006992013-06-13T15:06:00.000-04:002013-06-13T15:53:56.794-04:00Avoid pitfalls of the insurance application and claims processOur firm recently litigated a case where a warehouse was damaged by a tornado. The damage was estimated to be around $1 Million. During the course of the investigation of the claim, the insurance company sought certain information from the insured and the insurance agent that procured the policy. The insurance company then denied coverage after it determined that the information contained in the application was false.<br />
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What transpired was a year-long court battle in which the insurance company, insurance agent, and insured argued over which party was at fault in issuing the policy and in completing the application. <br />
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It is important that any time you sign an insurance application that you read it carefully. Even if an agent completes the application, by signing you are attesting to the truthfulness of its contents. This is vital to any insurance policy because insurance companies can avoid paying a claim if they later determine that the application was incorrect. Particularly in large loss claims, insurance companies will comb over every piece of your application.<br />
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However, because you sign an incorrect application does not mean you have no legal remedy. First, an insurance company may not be able to void a policy if it issued the policy prior to you signing an application. Secondly, an insurance agent may also have a duty to assist you in acquiring insurance and in filing a claim. If the agent is found to have breached his/her fiduciary duty to you in failing to obtain insurance or in presenting false information to the insurer during the investigation of the claim, he/she can be held liable.<br />
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Still, you want to avoid lengthy court battles by reading any insurance application before signing and hiring an insurance agent that you trust.<br />
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This blog does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should not rely upon this blog for legal advice, but instead should consult an attorney experienced in your area of concern.<div class="blogger-post-footer">This blog does not create an attorney/client relationship.
If you have a legal question, you should consult an attorney.</div>Derek P. Adlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05901036725904800127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1099666633906484555.post-20186691790631085832013-06-13T11:05:00.000-04:002013-06-13T11:05:51.748-04:00New lien laws that every contractor and sub-contractor must knowAs of April 1, 2013, there are new lien laws that every contractor and subcontractor MUST be aware of prior to commencing work on a project. These laws apply to any project that first begins work after April 1, 2013.<br />
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As a result of extensive lobbying by the title insurance industry, the NC General Assembly recently enacted N.C. Gen. Stat. 44A-11.1 and 11.2. In short, these statutes have created the position of a lien agent for any project greater than $30,000.00 (unless the project is at a private residence, to which exceptions apply). Every owner is now required to designate a lien agent prior to commencement of construction. Said lien agent shall be designated on the building permit or somewhere else on the property, and said individual's name shall be given by owner upon request of the contractor. Contractors are thus required to give the name of designated agent to subs, and so forth down the line.<br />
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Here is the most important part: if you do work or supply materials to a work site, you are deemed a potential lien claimant. In order to indefinitely protect your future lien rights (as against future owners of the property), you must send a notice to lien agent that you are a potential lien claimant within fifteen days after first furnishing labor or materials. <br />
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An attorney experienced in representing contractors and subcontractors can help you prepare and serve these notices. If a notice is not timely and properly prepared and served, you potentially lose your right to enforce a lien on the property against a subsequent purchaser.<br />
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It is important to note that a notice to lien agent (described above) is not a substitute for filing a lien. But for a few minor changes, statutes governing liens on property and liens on funds remain unchanged. As has always been the case, if you find yourself in a situation where payment for work or materials is delayed, you should contact an attorney to protect your rights. S/he can also advise you on ways to best protect your business in the future.<br />
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This blog does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should not rely upon this blog for legal advice, but instead should consult an attorney experienced in your area of concern.<div class="blogger-post-footer">This blog does not create an attorney/client relationship.
If you have a legal question, you should consult an attorney.</div>Derek P. Adlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05901036725904800127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1099666633906484555.post-74896510239661306472013-03-11T15:49:00.001-04:002013-10-23T15:12:27.625-04:00Property Disputes & Title Insurance Imagine finding the house of your dreams or the perfect location to start your new business. Imagine how excited you are to learn that you have the financing necessary to close on the property. Then imagine that the financing falls through because you can't get title insurance on the property. Whereas the cost for title insurance is minimal compared to the high costs of real estate, it is an expense that can mean the difference between buying that dream location versus having to find an alternate venue.<br />
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The reason this can happen is because the deed history on property can become very complex and confusing. Over time, with properties exchanging hands multiple times, the situation worsens. The purpose of title insurance is to ensure that you, as the purchaser, are insured against other claims to property. Title insurance companies must be satisfied that your claim to the property is proper, or they will not grant you title insurance.<br />
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To make you understand their rationale, imagine a driver with a long history of serious traffic accidents. At some point he/she becomes uninsurable and auto insurers will no longer take the risk of insuring his driving. Title insurers think similarly, but on a grander scale (The majority of traffic accidents are much less costly than real estate). Title insurers do not want to be in a positions where there is the likelihood of having to defend a lawsuit on your behalf.<br />
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Sometimes the issues preventing coverage can be solved with a simple phone call. Sometimes a property litigation attorney is necessary to file an action to quiet title, which is a lawsuit asking the Court to declare who is the rightful owner of property.<br />
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This blog does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should not rely upon this blog for legal advice, but instead should consult an attorney experienced in your area of concern.<div class="blogger-post-footer">This blog does not create an attorney/client relationship.
If you have a legal question, you should consult an attorney.</div>Derek P. Adlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05901036725904800127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1099666633906484555.post-75945086205000647912013-03-11T15:47:00.001-04:002013-03-11T15:47:39.832-04:00Property Disputes & Title Insurance Imagine finding the house of your dreams or the perfect location to start your new business. Imagine how excited you are to learn that you have the financing necessary to close on the property. Then imagine that the financing falls through because you can't get title insurance on the property. Whereas the cost for title insurance is minimal compared to the high costs of real estate, it is an expense that can mean the difference between buying that dream location versus having to find an alternate veue.<br />
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The reason this can happen is because the deed history on property can become very complex and confusing. Over time, with properties exchanging hands multiple times, the situation worsens. The purpose of title insurance is to ensure that you, as the purchaser, are insured against other claims to property. Title insurance companies must be satisfied that your claim to the property is proper, or they will not grant you title insurance. <br />
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To make you understand their rationale, imagine a driver with a long history of serious traffic accidents. At some point he/she becomes uninsurable and auto insurers will no longer take the risk of insuring his driving. Title insurers think similarly, but on a grander scale (The majority of traffic accidents are much less costly than real estate). Title insurers do not want to be in a positions where there is the likelihood of having to defend a lawsuit on your behalf.<br />
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Sometimes the issues preventing coverage can be solved with a simple phone call. Sometimes a property litigation attorney is necessary to file an action to quiet title, which is a lawsuit asking the Court to declare who is the rightful owner of property. <br />
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This blog does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should not rely upon this blog for legal advice, but instead should consult an attorney experienced in your area of concern.<div class="blogger-post-footer">This blog does not create an attorney/client relationship.
If you have a legal question, you should consult an attorney.</div>Derek P. Adlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05901036725904800127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1099666633906484555.post-55541704795710388552013-03-11T15:27:00.003-04:002013-03-11T15:33:40.453-04:00Handling Auto Accidents & Insurance Companies If you have had the unfortunate experience of being in an automobile accident, you have likely also suffered the uncomfortable and painstaking task of dealing with an insurance company. And depending on the at-fault party's insurance policy limits, you may find yourself dealing with more than one insurance company. Often times, your own insurance policy provides coverage for Uninsured Motorists (UM) and Underinsured Motorists (UIM). This means that if you suffer property damages, medical expenses, and personal injuries beyond the at-fault party's policy limits, your own insurance company is responsibly for paying the excess.<br />
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However, it is important that you know that your own insurance company becomes an adverse party in that instant. Though they have a duty to evaluate and adjust your claim fairly, they do not have to pay what they disagree is owed. Unfortunately, disagreements seem to be the norm rather than the exception. Therefore, you may be forced to hire an attorney to initiate litigation to recover for your damages and injuries. Disagreements on property damage and personal injuries must be resolved by a jury and an experienced litigation team is vital to maximizing a jury award. <br />
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This blog does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should not rely upon this blog for legal advice, but instead should consult an attorney experienced in your area of concern.<div class="blogger-post-footer">This blog does not create an attorney/client relationship.
If you have a legal question, you should consult an attorney.</div>Derek P. Adlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05901036725904800127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1099666633906484555.post-11053545857396710602013-01-08T16:44:00.002-05:002013-03-11T15:32:26.262-04:00Mechanic's and Materialmen's LiensOne of the most important legal remedies available to contractors and subcontractors is the right to file a lien. Liens serve a variety of functions, the most important of which is 1) to put the owner on notice that you have not been paid, 2) to make a secure claim for payment. <br />
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Filing a lien in state court requires paying a nominal fee and serving the interested parties. It is very important that liens are timely filed and that all filed documents contain accurate information. Unlike many things filed in state courts, a lien cannot be amended. Instead, in the event of an error, you must file a new lien and run the risk of filing too late. In North Carolina, you must file a lien within 120 days of the last substantial work on the property.<br />
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Failure to follow the strict guidelines imposed by your governing statutes could mean losing your lien rights. Often times the modest cost of hiring an attorney to file a lien can mean the difference between tens of thousands of dollars and nothing. If you are a sub and your contractor files bankruptcy or becomes insolvent, a timely filed lien on funds and a lien on real property can salvage your business. If money is owed to your contractor and you have not been paid, a lien directs the owner to make payment to you before paying the contractor any additional funds.<br />
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Second and third tier subs have similar remedies.<br />
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This blog does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should not rely upon this blog for legal advice, but instead should consult an attorney experienced in your area of concern.<div class="blogger-post-footer">This blog does not create an attorney/client relationship.
If you have a legal question, you should consult an attorney.</div>Derek P. Adlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05901036725904800127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1099666633906484555.post-46295631245204811732012-03-06T09:03:00.002-05:002013-03-11T15:31:04.554-04:00Insurance Information for Tornado VictimsFrom the deep south, through the midwest, and even into the Carolinas, recent bad weather has spawned multiple deadly tornadoes. While we grieve for the lives lost, many are faced with the task of rebuilding. <br />
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Undoubtedly, most of you affected will file insurance claims to compensate you for your losses and assist you in restarting your lives. It is important that you read your policy carefully to understand your rights.<br />
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In general, insurance policies compensate you in one of two ways: 1) actual cash value, which gives you the appraised value of your property at the time of the damage and incorporates a depreciation deduction, or 2) replacement value, which gives you the value of new items of like quality. Replacement value coverage is usually an insurance add-on that requires a higher premium. When compensating for replacement value, the insurance company will initially pay the actual cash value while withholding the depreciation until repairs are complete, thereby forcing you to front some of the costs. So, though replacement coverage gives you a larger recovery than actual cash value, the burden on you is still great.<br />
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Regardless of your policy, you do not have to accept what the insurance company offers. They have appraisers that represent their interests - so should you. Virtually every insurance policy has a quasi-arbitration provision that enables you to hire your own appraiser - the insurance company must comply. Your appraiser and the insurance company's will select a third-party umpire to determine the amount of your claim. <br />
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Additionally, insurance companies have a duty to handle your claim in good faith, without delay, and with the intent to fully compensate you for your loss. Having a knowledgeable attorney in your corner can help expedite the claims process and increase your recovery.<br />
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As we enter the turbulent spring months, and while we hope and pray that the devastation of this past year will not repeat itself, it is important to be prepared if and when you face the task of rebuilding.<br />
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This blog does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should not rely upon this blog for legal advice, but instead should consult an attorney experienced in your area of concern.<div class="blogger-post-footer">This blog does not create an attorney/client relationship.
If you have a legal question, you should consult an attorney.</div>Derek P. Adlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05901036725904800127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1099666633906484555.post-7068316467527494692012-01-17T13:19:00.002-05:002013-03-11T15:31:39.132-04:00Executing on a JudgmentOne of the biggest issues facing litigants and attorneys in a poor economy is the ability to collect on a judgment. My guess is that a majority of the public think that once a judgment is entered, that amount of money is immediately sent to the prevailing party. Whether dealing with an individual or struggling company, too often a sizable judgment is not collectible. The law creates several avenues for debtors to escape paying judgments and to retain certain personal assets.<br />
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When consulting an attorney about your case, it is important that he/she discloses to you, in addition to the merits of your case, the likelihood of collection. The best attorney in the world is valueless if your large jury verdict only exists on paper. Often times, the litigants themselves are the most knowledgeable concerning an opposing party's assets.<br />
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Before pursuing a case, it is important to have an attorney that 1) can ascertain the likelihood of success, 2) can discover other responsible parties, if any, 3) is experienced in executing on a judgment. Executing on a judgment involves complex issues that require constant communication with the Sheriff's office, knowledge of supplemental proceedings to discover assets, and a commitment to your case well after a judgment is awarded.<br />
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This blog does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should not rely upon this blog for legal advice, but instead should consult an attorney experienced in your area of concern.<div class="blogger-post-footer">This blog does not create an attorney/client relationship.
If you have a legal question, you should consult an attorney.</div>Derek P. Adlerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05901036725904800127noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1099666633906484555.post-71217247557701629912011-10-26T15:32:00.000-04:002011-10-26T15:32:19.589-04:00Medicare and Medicaid LiensRecent legislative changes have impacted the settlement of personal injury and workers compensation cases in regards to Medicare and Medicaid. (Medicare is for folks over 65 years old, Medicaid is for folks with low income). <br />
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<b>Medicare </b>- Before you can settle a case where Medicare has paid for some or all of the medical bills, you have to obtain a conditional lien letter which gives you an estimate of the amount of bills paid. It can sometimes take months to get this letter. Once the case is settled, you then have to obtain a final lien letter before funds can be disbursed. Therefore, obtaining lien information early in the process is important. In workers compensation cases, you also may have to place money in escrow for future medical bills. This is called an MSA or Medicare Set Aside.<br />
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<b>Medicaid</b> - Liens created by bills paid by Medicaid are a little easier to manage. For example, they will generally allow you to deduct one-third of their lien to help defer your attorney fees.<br />
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Having an attorney that is knowledgeable in these issues is critical to obtaining a fair resolution of any personal injury or medical negligence claim.<br />
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This blog does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should not rely upon this blog for legal advice, but instead should consult an attorney experienced in your area of concern.<div class="blogger-post-footer">This blog does not create an attorney/client relationship.
If you have a legal question, you should consult an attorney.</div>Fred DeVorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14365847933059523871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1099666633906484555.post-4081410962715736132011-10-26T11:31:00.005-04:002011-10-26T12:04:16.986-04:00Preliminary Information on Condemnation CasesIf you or someone you know has recently received a notice or a declaration of taking by the government regarding a portion of your property, there are significant questions you need answered to protect your rights as the homeowner.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">1.) Was a Complaint filed for the taking?</span> A complaint is a lawsuit, and in condemnation cases, the plaintiff is usually the government (or entity taking the property) and the defendants are all the "potentially" affected parties of that taking. Typically the list of defendants would include the homeowners, the bank who has the mortgage, and the Trustee (if there is one). The date of the taking is the same as the date of the filing of the complaint, and the plaintiff must deposit the full amount of the funds which it deems "just compensation" to the defendants. These funds are held with the Clerk of Court in whichever county the lawsuit was filed.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">2.) A Complaint has been filed, and I disagree with the "just compensation" amount for my property. How do I fight it? </span>If you agree with the amount deposited with the Clerk of Court as just compensation for the portion of your property being taken, then you may move the court to disburse the funds directly to you, once you have determined that none of the other defendants have an interest in the funds. NOTE - You must contact and provide adequate notice to all defendants that you plan on having a hearing to withdraw the funds. You do not need an attorney to withdraw these funds, but if you are nervous about doing it, you can hire an attorney to make a limited appearance on your behalf.<br /><br />If you disagree with the amount deposited, you probably need to contact an attorney. The plaintiff has most likely determined your "just compensation" dollar amount by hiring an appraiser, who used a method for determining value. This appraiser must determine what the "highest and best use" of the condemned property was as of the filing of the taking. Your attorney will most likely want to hire a different appraiser or someone who can testify as to why the plaintiff's value of your property is unreasonable or too low. These costs will most likely need to be paid out-of-pocket by you, but in certain situations you may use the amount deposited with the Court to pay some of these expenses.<br /><br />In condemnation cases, withdrawing the deposit (if you are permitted to do so) will not affect your right to later potentially collect more from the plaintiff, so long as you haven't signed anything waiving this right. You need to consult an attorney soon after receiving the complaint to avoid jeopardizing your rights to "just compensation." <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span><div class="blogger-post-footer">This blog does not create an attorney/client relationship.
If you have a legal question, you should consult an attorney.</div>Will DeVorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11654095018359543939noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1099666633906484555.post-50302355290377730782010-09-02T12:11:00.002-04:002010-09-08T15:26:09.839-04:00Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions?How important is it that you know the restrictions on your property? Just ask a recent Charlotte couple who now have to demolish a $500,000 addition to their home because they innocently failed to follow setback requirements recorded in 1915. Before there were zoning requirements, sellers (grantors) were permitted to restrict the use of property that they sold. For example there could be restrictions on whether it could be used for residential purposes – or the size of a home could be regulated – or which way the house faced could be restricted.<br />
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As modern day zoning came into play around the 1940’s, actual deed restrictions became less prevalent. But in today’s subdivisions, not only does zoning regulate the use of one’s property, but it is likely that the developer has filed Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CCR’s) on your property.<br />
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These restrictions are placed in your chain of title and you are deemed to know what they say – even if you never actually read them or even received a copy. Therefore, the next time you begin construction on your lot, be sure you know what limitations may exist on your plans for the property.<br />
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If you have questions regarding your legal options, contact a <a href="http://www.devact.com/">Charlotte attorney</a> at DeVore, Acton & Stafford, PA today.<div class="blogger-post-footer">This blog does not create an attorney/client relationship.
If you have a legal question, you should consult an attorney.</div>Fred DeVorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14365847933059523871noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1099666633906484555.post-10718003423867140502010-02-16T12:46:00.002-05:002010-02-16T13:28:06.053-05:00Estate Administration: Qualifying as AdministratorIn North Carolina, if a person dies without a Will, that person is said to have died "intestate," and the Administrator is the person who handles the deceased person's (decedent's) estate. If the person died with an original of his/her last Will, that person has died "testate," and the Executor named in the Will would be handling the estate.<br /><br />This is the most important distinction to make before going through the steps of handling a deceased person's estate. A thorough search should be done to determine whether the decedent left a Will. If there is no Will, and you wish to qualify as Administrator of the decedent's estate, there is a specific protocol you must follow in order to do so.<br /><br />You must first apply to the clerk of superior court on a form provided by the clerk's office called, Application For Letters of Administration. Letters of Administration are the official written authorization to carry out the responsibilities as Administrator of the estate. This application form calls for a preliminary inventory of all assets of the decedent <strong>as of the date of death.</strong> This is important because that means you as the applicant must have a general knowledge of the decedent's real estate, bank accounts, stocks, bonds, cars, and other personal property. You must also estimate the value of these assets to complete the application.<br /><br />Also, the clerk will grant letters of administration to a person who applies and is qualified to serve in the following order:<br />(1) Surviving spouse, (2) Anyone who is to receive property as indicated by Will, (3) Anyone entitled to receive property by law (w/o Will), (4) Any next of kin, (5) Any creditor to whom decedent became obligated prior to death, (6) Any person of good character residing in the county who applies with the clerk of superior court.<br /><br />You must also take an oath or make an affirmation to carry out all the duties as Administrator faithfully and honestly, and in most circumstances you will need to furnish a bond as Administrator.<br /><br />This is only the very beginning of the process. Most estate administration is very time consuming and can become quite complex. If you have never handled an estate before it may be a good idea to seek attorney assitance to help guide you through the process.<br /><br />This blog does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should not rely upon this blog for legal advice, but instead should consult an attorney experienced in your area of concern.<div class="blogger-post-footer">This blog does not create an attorney/client relationship.
If you have a legal question, you should consult an attorney.</div>Will DeVorehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11654095018359543939noreply@blogger.com0