 At Iacobelli Law Firm, we believe in the power of community and connection within the legal profession. That's why we were thrilled to attend the recent York Region Law Association's annual Judges' Dinner on February 27, 2025, held at the beautiful Eagles Nest Golf Club in Maple. The evening was a resounding success, offering a unique opportunity to engage with our esteemed local Judiciary from both the Superior and Ontario Courts of Justice. It was a privilege to share a space with the individuals who uphold the rule of law within our region.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the York Region Law Association for organizing such a memorable and impactful event. The dedication and hard work that went into planning and executing this dinner were evident, and we appreciate the Association's commitment to fostering a strong and connected legal community. At Iacobelli Law Firm, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of legal practice and contributing to the betterment of our community. Events like the Judges' Dinner reinforce our dedication to building strong relationships and fostering a collaborative legal environment. Thank you to everyone who made the evening such a success. We are proud to be a part of the vibrant legal community in York Region.
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Have you ever wondered about the different ways lawyers charge for their services? In our latest YouTube video, we break down the key differences between contingency fee agreements and traditional hourly billing. Knowing these distinctions can save you from making an expensive mistake! Leveling the Playing Field with Contingency Fees Contingency fees offer a powerful way to ensure everyone has access to justice. For those who might find the upfront costs of litigation prohibitive, this arrangement can be a game-changer. In a contingency fee agreement, you typically don't pay any money upfront for the lawyer's time or expenses. These expenses can include court filing fees, document production costs, expert fees, and more. How Contingency Fees Work With a contingency fee, your lawyer's compensation is based on a percentage of the money recovered if your case is successful. This means "no win, no fee" – if your case doesn't result in a monetary settlement or award, you generally don't owe legal fees. This contrasts sharply with hourly billing, where you pay for the lawyer's time regardless of the outcome. Beyond Personal Injury While contingency fees are commonly associated with personal injury cases, they can be applied to other civil litigation matters as well. These include contract disputes, breach of contract cases, and financial losses resulting from defective products or workmanship. At our firm, while we focus on personal injury, we also handle various civil litigation cases including employment matters, like wrongful dismissal and job termination. Advantages of Contingency Fees Contingency fee agreements align the interests of the lawyer and the client. The lawyer is motivated to achieve the best possible outcome for the client, whether through settlement or trial, as their fee is directly tied to the result. This can be a significant advantage over hourly billing, where the focus might sometimes be more on the time spent rather than on a quick and favorable resolution. Considering a Contingency Fee Agreement? If you're involved in a commercial dispute or seeking financial compensation in a civil matter, a contingency fee agreement might be an option worth exploring. We evaluate cases individually to determine if a contingency fee arrangement is suitable. Have Questions? If you believe you have a viable claim and are concerned about the costs of hourly legal fees, contact us for a free consultation. We're happy to discuss your case and explore how we might be able to assist you. On February 17, 2025, a Delta Air Lines flight from Minneapolis crashed, turned upside down, and caught fire on the runway at Toronto Pearson International Airport while attempting to land. All 80 people on board the CRJ900 twin-jet aircraft survived, but 21 people were taken to hospitals with injuries.
What Happened? The plane, operated by Delta subsidiary Endeavor Air, was landing in Toronto when the rear landing gear buckled and the right wing sheared away in a fireball. The plane skidded on its belly before rolling over, sending smoke and snow into the air. Passengers described the landing as "super hard" and said that the plane went sideways after hitting the ground. One passenger said that his "whole window just turned into flame briefly and then it was dark as we slid." What are the Rights of Injured Passengers? If you were injured in the Delta plane crash in Toronto, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. This compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. You may be able to recover compensation from Delta Air Lines, Endeavor Air, or other parties involved in the crash. Aviation Injury Law Aviation injury law is a complex area of law that governs the rights of passengers who are injured in aviation accidents. These cases can be brought against a variety of parties, including the airline, the aircraft manufacturer, the pilot, and the airport. How Iacobelli Law Firm Can Help Iacobelli Law Firm has experience representing injury victims from aviation accidents. We have a deep understanding of the laws governing aviation accidents and we are committed to getting our clients the compensation they deserve. If you have been injured in an aviation accident, we encourage you to contact us today for a free consultation. We will review your case and discuss your legal options with you. Law After COVID-19: Embracing the Virtual Practice
The practice of law has undergone a significant transformation in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The shift towards virtual proceedings and remote work has not only impacted how lawyers operate but also expanded the choices available to clients seeking legal representation. The Pre-COVID Legal Landscape Before 2020, most client-attorney relationships were local. While some jurisdictions offered remote options, these were limited. Lawyers who wanted to establish a presence in a wider geographic area typically needed to have offices in multiple locations. This was necessary for meeting with clients and, more importantly, for attending court hearings and proceedings. The Shift to Remote Legal Proceedings The pandemic accelerated the adoption of remote legal proceedings. Today, the vast majority of civil litigation proceedings, including depositions, client meetings, and conferences with opposing counsel and the court, are conducted remotely via video conferencing. This shift has eliminated the need for extensive travel and has made it possible for lawyers to attend hearings in multiple courts on the same day, regardless of their location. Advantages and Disadvantages of Virtual Practice While virtual practice offers numerous advantages, including increased efficiency, flexibility, and cost savings, it also has some drawbacks. The lack of in-person interaction can make it more difficult to build relationships and connect with clients and colleagues. However, the benefits of virtual practice far outweigh the disadvantages. Enhanced Client Choices and Lawyer Competition One of the most significant benefits of virtual practice is that it has expanded the choices available to clients. In the past, clients in remote areas were often limited to choosing a lawyer in their local area. Today, clients can choose a lawyer from anywhere within their jurisdiction, which has increased competition among lawyers and improved access to justice. Technological Advancements in Court Filings The adoption of electronic filing systems has further streamlined the legal process. Lawyers can now file documents electronically from anywhere, which saves time and reduces costs. Embracing the New Normal in Legal Practice The shift towards virtual practice has transformed the legal landscape. While it may not be suitable for everyone, it offers numerous benefits for both lawyers and clients. As we move forward, it is important to embrace the new normal and leverage technology to improve access to justice and enhance the efficiency of legal services. Slip and Fall Accidents in Retail and Commercial Spaces: How to Build a Solid Case
Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere, but they are especially common in retail and commercial spaces like grocery stores and department stores. If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident on commercial property, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Key Factors in Slip and Fall Cases In order to build a solid slip and fall case, there are a few key factors that you will need to consider:
Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall Accident If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, there are a few important steps that you should take:
Do Stores Typically Resolve Slip and Fall Cases Quickly? In our experience, department stores and grocery stores typically try to resolve slip and fall accidents without going to court. However, it is important to have a lawyer on your side to protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Insurance companies know that individuals without a lawyer may not fully understand the claims process or how damages are assessed. Contact Iacobelli Law Firm Today! If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, contact Iacobelli Law Firm today. We can provide you with the legal advice and representation you need to get the compensation you deserve. Getting into a car accident is always a stressful experience, but when it happens in a foreign country like the United States, it can be even more overwhelming. For Canadians involved in car accidents in the United States, understanding how to navigate the insurance landscape is crucial. The Ontario Superior Court case Kovacevic v. ING Insurance highlights some important lessons.
Case Summary In Kovacevic, the plaintiffs, who were injured in a Florida car accident, settled their lawsuit against the at-fault driver's insurance company for less than the policy limit. They then tried to claim underinsured motorist coverage from their own Canadian insurer. The court ruled against them, stating that they couldn't settle for less than the available policy limits in the U.S. and then seek additional compensation from their Canadian insurer. Implications for Canadians This case has significant implications for Canadians who find themselves in a similar situation:
Key Takeaways The Kovacevic case serves as a cautionary tale for Canadians injured in car accidents in the US. It underscores the importance of understanding your insurance coverage, being diligent in pursuing claims against the at-fault driver's insurer, and seeking legal advice to ensure you receive the compensation you're entitled to. Remember, insurance laws can differ between countries, and what might seem like a straightforward claim can quickly become complex when international borders are involved. Don't Assume Your U.S. Lawyer Knows Canadian Insurance Even if you have a lawyer in the United States handling your accident claim, it's essential to consult with an experienced cross-border personal injury lawyer in Canada as well. U.S. attorneys may not be familiar with the intricacies of Canadian insurance law and the steps required to preserve your rights to benefits. Coordinating Insurance Claims and Benefits A cross-border lawyer can help you coordinate your insurance claims and benefits on both sides of the border. Andrew Iacobelli is the Snowbird Attorney and the lawyer that other lawyers across Canada and the United States turn to for assistance with Canadians injured in the United States. Andrew litigates injury claims in Canada and the United States, and is licensed to practice law in Michigan, Florida, Texas and Ontario. We have helped countless Canadians and their attorneys with coordinating and maximizing their recovery in cross border accident claims involving Canadians injured in the United States. Whether you are an individual from Canada injured in the United States or an attorney or lawyer in the United States or Canada, reach out to Andrew to learn more. He is always happy to share his experience and knowledge to assist with your cross border injury claim to ensure you have every opportunity to maximize your recovery. We're talking about depositions. In particular, how to present yourself at a deposition. And by that I mean just basically how you present, how you look and speak at a deposition.
I'm going to preface this by saying, speak to your own attorney for advice. This is just informational, some of the things that I tell or suggest to my clients before their deposition. The Importance of Presentation Deposition is very often the first and sometimes the only time that the other lawyer, or I should say even a representative of the insurance company, the party on the other side that will ultimately pay your claim, is getting a chance to see you face to face, to meet with you, hear from you. Almost as important as what you say, in terms of your answers to questions, almost as important as how you say it, how you present. Attorneys are always making assessments of witnesses in terms of credibility, presentation, and likability. Insurance companies really do not pay claims because they're trying to do what's fair or what's right, or what's reasonable in the circumstances. The whole payment of a claim is to buy, it's an exchange of money, money to the injured person, in exchange for a right. So the injured party is giving up the right to have their case decided by a judge and or jury in a courtroom. And so the insurance company will place a value on that right, what they're willing to pay based on what they think their risk is in proceeding all the way through trial. That's basically money, what their money risk is. How to Prepare for a Successful Deposition Although the facts or the evidence are critically important. Lawyers understand that the jury or the trier of fact, whoever's deciding the facts of the case, will also put a lot of weight on the presentation of the person. Are they likable? Are they honest? Do I want to find in this person's favor? So it's really important when you go to your deposition that you remain likable and you present well. So here's a couple things you can do. Few things you can do to help your chances at deposition. What Should I Wear to a Deposition? Dress appropriately. You just wanna look like you have respect for the process. As a general rule, dress like you would for a job interview, look appropriate. You don't have to wear a suit. Show some respect for the process in terms of your appearance. Handling Opposing Counsel The other thing is do not argue with the other lawyer. The examining attorney. Reserve that for your own attorney to do. That's their job. They're there with you. And if the opposing counsel is offside, being rude or aggressive. Maintain your composure. Let your attorney deal with those issues. Okay? Your job is just to convey the information as best you can. State the facts. If the other attorney's rude, let them be rude. Critically important, don't let them pull you into that state of mind, alright? Taking Breaks and Staying Composed You can take breaks, if you feel like you're getting flustered, frustrated, nervous, whatever it might be, that is undermining your ability to answer appropriately. The best bet? If in doubt, request a break. You're entitled to breaks. Now, there are some exceptions to that. If there's a question pending, the opposing counsel would be generally entitled to have the answer before the break, but with few exceptions, they're accommodated. Get some air, so you can go back at it. Avoiding Sarcasm and Humor Another important point, avoid sarcasm. At all costs, never, ever, ever be sarcastic. At the end of the deposition, we're left with a transcript. It does not pick up sarcasm. Your words will be taken at face value. It doesn't pick up the mood. It doesn't pick up the humor, any of that. So avoid humor, avoid sarcasm. Stick to the facts. Staying On and Off the Record There's no such thing as off the record. Some opposing counsel, very likable and charismatic. You go off the record, you'll hear that. Time for a break or lunch or whatever. Off the record, you might say something because you find some similar interest between you and the opposing counsel. You guys might start talking about phishing or something. And even though it's off the record, I can almost guarantee any information you share with the opposing lawyer will probably be used against you once you're back on the record and it's being recorded. So if you do take a break, use it as a break. When you're back in to do your deposition, then it's all on the record. Being Truthful and Honest in Your Answers Don't exaggerate. Obviously in preparation for your deposition, speak to your attorney about the evidence that you're going to give, but avoid exaggeration. It's usually obvious to the deposing lawyer that you're exaggerating. It undermines credibility. Understanding and Answering Questions So a common question clients ask is, you know, do I have to be concerned with trick questions or is the other counsel going to try to mess me up and trick me? And that's really the domain of your own lawyer. They're, they're going to be seated right there with you. If it's not a proper question, that's the role of your lawyer, but also you should be aware. So if you don't understand the question, if it's not clear to you what the, what the examining lawyer is asking you. Don't answer a question unless you understand it. If you don't understand, simply tell the lawyer, I don't understand the question. Most attorneys at the outset will tell you, if you don't understand my question, let me know. I'll rephrase it. If you don't hear my question, let me know. I'll restate it. So unless you've heard the entire question and unless you understand it, make sure you let the other lawyer know so that it can be either restated or rephrased. But in terms of beyond that, if it's a trick question, that's also a helpful way to alert your own attorney that maybe the question is convoluted or not clear. If your lawyer has anything to add, can add, can add his own objection at that time. The Role of Credibility in Your Personal Injury Case So these points really are, are more about your presentation, your likability, your respect for the process, your credibility. And not so much information about the evidence you're giving or the subject matter you're talking on. Keep in mind these are just important points for presenting well in terms of a person that's likable. Because after the deposition, what the other attorney is going to do is they're going to write a report to their client, typically an insurance company, and that report will summarize your evidence, the facts, as you recall them. The evidence you're giving with respect to how the event occurred, the injuries, the impact on your life, etc. But also, there's a big part of that report that talks about you as a witness. Are you likable? Are you credible? More importantly, will a jury find you likable and credible? Will they side with your version of events? Do your version of events sound credible or are they exaggerated or don't make sense? That's almost as important as sometimes, in some cases, might be more important than the evidence itself. About the injuries, the impact it has on your life. Because that evidence can be gathered through other sources as well. Your medical records will talk clearly about your injuries, your symptoms, the treatment, the diagnosis, etc. Your employment, if it's impacted, can come from employment records and co workers and managers. But your own credibility, you're the only one in control of that. And so that's, that's really critically important that you want to make sure you present in a way that it doesn't hurt your case. Because what you don't want is the insurance to say, well, okay, it's an accident, but this person would be a terrible witness at trial. They're a below average witness. A jury will hate them. A jury won't believe them. A jury's not going to like them. A jury's not going to be favorable to them. Because that could actually undermine the value of your case and cause an insurance company to offer you less money than you deserve. Have Questions? Contact Us Today! I hope you found this video informative. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us. We're available 24/7. We're happy to provide you with a free consultation. Thanks for watching. As 2024 draws to a close, we at Iacobelli Law Firm find ourselves filled with immense gratitude for the experiences, opportunities, and relationships that have shaped this remarkable year. It has been a year of significant milestones, expansion, and unwavering dedication to serving our clients across Ontario, Florida, and now Texas.
Expanding Our Reach This year, we proudly extended our legal services to the great state of Texas, broadening our reach to provide compassionate and skilled legal representation to even more individuals and families in need. This expansion reflects our commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those who have suffered serious injuries due to the negligence of others. Welcoming New Team Members To enhance our ability to serve our clients effectively, we welcomed several talented and dedicated professionals to our team. Their expertise and commitment have strengthened our capacity to provide personalized attention and exceptional legal counsel to each individual we represent. Fighting for Justice, Securing Millions Throughout 2024, we remained steadfast in our pursuit of justice for our injured clients and their families. We are humbled to have recovered millions of dollars in compensation, enabling them to rebuild their lives and move forward with hope and dignity after experiencing life-altering accidents. Championing the Catastrophically Injured Our passion for helping those who have suffered catastrophic injuries has only grown stronger this year. We have dedicated ourselves to providing unwavering support and advocacy to individuals and families facing extraordinary challenges. Their resilience and strength inspire us every day. Giving Back to Our Community This year, we were honored to give back to the communities we serve in various ways:
A Heartfelt Thank You To our clients: Thank you for placing your trust in us during challenging times. Your strength and resilience inspire us every day. To our team members: Thank you for your hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to our clients. Your passion for justice is at the heart of everything we do. To our colleagues and partners: Thank you for your collaboration and support. We value the relationships we've built and look forward to continued collaboration. Looking Ahead As we reflect on the blessings of 2024, we are filled with optimism for the future. We remain dedicated to providing exceptional legal services, fighting for justice, and making a positive impact on the lives of our clients. Do You Need Help? If you or someone you know has been injured due to someone else's negligence, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. From all of us at Iacobelli Law Firm, we wish you a happy, healthy, and fulfilling New Year!  When a loved one suffers a spinal cord injury in a car accident, the world shifts on its axis. Suddenly, you're facing a whirlwind of emotions – fear, confusion, anger. At Iacobelli Law Firm, we have been helping families in Ontario navigate these challenging times for years, and we're here to offer you support, guidance, and unwavering advocacy.
First Steps: Focusing on Your Loved One's Care Right now, your priority is your loved one's well-being. Know that Ontario has a network of exceptional medical professionals ready to provide the best possible care. Hospitals like St. Michael's, Sunnybrook, and Toronto Western are renowned for their expertise in trauma and spinal cord injuries. They'll work tirelessly to stabilize your loved one and begin the journey toward recovery. Understanding Your Rights: A Path Forward While you focus on your loved one, it's important to know that you're not alone in this journey. Ontario's no-fault insurance system provides crucial benefits for catastrophic injuries, regardless of who caused the accident. And because spinal cord injuries often qualify as catastrophic impairments, you'll have access to enhanced support, including:
Beyond No-Fault: Seeking Full Compensation While no-fault benefits offer a safety net, they may not cover all the long-term costs associated with a spinal cord injury. That's where we come in. We'll fight tirelessly to hold the at-fault driver accountable and secure the compensation your family deserves, including:
The Road to Recovery: Rehabilitation and Beyond Rehabilitation is a critical part of the journey. Ontario boasts world-class facilities like Lyndhurst, the Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, and West Park Healthcare Centre, offering specialized programs and innovative therapies to help your loved one regain independence and maximize their quality of life. We're Here to Shoulder the Burden Dealing with insurance companies, navigating legal complexities, and coordinating care can feel overwhelming during this already difficult time. Let us handle it. At Iacobelli Law Firm, we have the expertise and experience to:
You don't have to face this alone. We have recovered millions of dollars for individuals and families all over Ontario. We can help you get the resources you need to secure your future. Contact Iacobelli Law Firm today for a free consultation. We're here to provide compassionate support, expert guidance, and unwavering advocacy as you navigate this challenging journey. If you're involved in a personal injury case that goes to litigation, you'll likely have to give a deposition. This can be a stressful experience, but understanding the process and being well-prepared can make a big difference. Let's break down what a deposition is, what to expect, and how to put your best foot forward.
What is a Deposition? A deposition is part of the discovery phase in a lawsuit. It's an opportunity for both sides to gather evidence and learn more about the case. During a deposition, you'll answer questions under oath about the accident, your injuries, and how they've impacted your life. The Deposition Process
Your lawyer will play a key role in preparing you for your deposition. They will:
Have Questions? Contact Iacobelli Law Firm Today! If you're facing a deposition in a personal injury case, we're here to help. Our experienced team will guide you through the process and ensure your rights are protected. Contact us today for a free consultation. Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific legal situation. |
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- Watercraft and Boating Accidents
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