Archive for the ‘Legal’ Category

Air Bag Concerns Lead to Recall of 304,000 Honda Cars Worldwide

Tuesday, January 3rd, 2012

Since 2008, Japanese automaker Honda has recalled several of their most popular models due to defective airbags six times.  Recently, the auto giant recalled 304,000 more vehicles globally, bringing the total number of cars recalled to almost 2 million.  Of the 304,000 cars recalled, 273,000 of those are in the United States and Canada, according to Honda.

This recall applies to many of Acura and Honda’s most popular models including the Civic, Pilot, Accord and Odyssey.  The reason for the recall is potentially defective inflators, which cause the air bags to burst in the event of a crash, sending plastic and metal pieces flying; this could potentially cause serious injuries or even death.  As prominent New York defective products attorneys, we know all too well how faulty products can cause devastating injuries and even death, affecting every aspect of individuals’ lives and their families lives.

Honda’s problems are relatively minor when compared to rival Toyota, which has recalled approximately 12,000,000 vehicles over the past two years.  Earlier this year, almost 700,000 Hondas were recalled in North America and Asia because of stalling engines.  The current problem with the defective airbags has led to 20 accidents and two deaths in the United States thus far, according to Honda.

The cars affected by this most recent recall include:

2001 and 2002 Accord
2002 and 2003 Acura 3.2 TL
2003 Acura 3.2 CL
2001 to 2003 Civic
2001 to 2003 Odyssey
2002 and 2003 CR-V
2003 Pilot

Honda has long prided itself on being one of the highest quality vehicles in the industry, often surpassing the quality of vehicles offered by competitors.  Now, with continuing product liability issues over the past few years, the self-assurance of the company is certain to be wavering.  The airbag issue is one that seems to be coming back to haunt the company, as it has tried unsuccessfully to remedy the situation for the past several years.

Defective products leave thousands of people seriously and fatally injured every year.  Not only do problems exist in the automotive industry, but other industries as well including pharmaceutical drugs, children’s toys, household goods, appliances, tires, surgical appliances such as the recently highly exposed transvaginal surgical mesh recall and more.

At Brown Chiari, our New York defective product lawyers work aggressively on behalf of our clients.  Let us protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve for costs related to injuries caused by defective products, which may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and more.  Contact us today for a free evaluation of your case.

Maryland Tractor-Trailer Accident Takes Life of 26-year-old Man

Monday, November 21st, 2011

On Saturday, October 22nd, a crash between a tractor-trailer rig and a Chevy Suburban left the 26-year-old driver of the Suburban dead.  Michael Kenneth Nemes, a Cabin John resident, was found dead at the scene by Maryland State Police.

The accident occurred when the tractor-trailer attempted to make a U-turn near the interchange of Interstate 70 and 695 in Woodlawn.  As the truck was turning, the Suburban struck the side of the tractor-trailer and became pinned under the rig, trapping Nemes according to witnesses at the scene.

Although the Suburban struck the tractor-trailer rig, state police supervisor Sgt. Douglas Forrestor said that the U-turn was illegal; it was not known at the time of the accident whether the driver of the big rig would be charged.  It was also unclear whether alcohol played a role in the accident.  Nemes was not wearing a seatbelt when the accident took place.

While many questions remain about the accident, it is clear that the driver of the tractor-trailer is at fault for attempting an illegal U-turn.

Accidents involving tractor-trailer rigs often result in serious injuries.  Brain and spinal cord injuries, fractures, even amputation injuries may occur.  When you are injured in an accident involving an 18-wheeler or other large commercial truck, you may be entitled to compensation of costs related to your injuries such as medical expenses, lost wages and in some cases pain and suffering.

Brown Chiari is a team of truck accident lawyers New York dedicated to securing justice for our clients.  Contact us today for a free evaluation of your case.

Reasons to Hire an Investment Fraud Attorney

Tuesday, November 8th, 2011

There are some very compelling reasons to hire an investment fraud attorney when you suspect or know that fraudulent activity is taking place.  Individuals who invest in stocks and bonds often feel that when they lose money, there is nothing that can be done.  A skilled investment fraud lawyer can help you recover your losses, and prove fraudulent behavior on the part of stock brokers, financial advisors and other parties.

There are many ways that a broker may engage in fraudulent activity.  Lying to an investor about investments, theft, churning, unsuitable investments or transactions – you believe your money is being invested wisely so that you will make money, but all too often this is not the case.  An experienced investment fraud attorney has in-depth knowledge of the complex laws regarding investing; he/she will investigate the issue to determine if indeed you are being taken advantage of.

When you have been deceived by an unscrupulous broker or advisor, there are claims that must be filed in order to recover your losses. This alone can be far over many peoples heads.  Statistics have shown that those individuals who are represented by a reputable investment fraud lawyer have much better chances of recovering their losses.

Without skilled legal representation, the odds of recovering your losses are slim.  It is also important that you choose an investment fraud attorney who focuses on securities/investment issues, because of the complex nature of these types of cases.  The more knowledgeable and experienced the lawyer, the greater the chances of holding those who have defrauded you accountable.  Individuals often invest in stocks and bonds in order to cushion their financial future; deceit and fraudulent activity can potentially leave you without a nest egg, even financially broke.

Reputable investment fraud lawyers know that brokers and financial advisors often misrepresent or omit information or facts regarding investments; they may also participate in unauthorized trading, selling away and other forms of misconduct.  For the average investor, proving these allegations is difficult, which is why it is in your best interest to consult with a capable attorney.

If you have been made the victim of deceptive trade practices, never assume that there is nothing that you can do and that you have lost your money forever.  With the sound legal counsel and guidance of an experienced investment fraud lawyer, there is a good chance that you can recover your losses, and that those who have wronged you will be held responsible.

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Reasons to Hire a Kansas City DUI Lawyer When Arrested for DUI

Wednesday, November 2nd, 2011

You really don’t need the skills of an experienced Kansas City DUI lawyer when you have been arrested for driving under the influence, right?  Just pay a fine and go on about your business.  If only it were that easy!  Today, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a criminal offense that is not taken lightly by either the justice system or the general public.  When you have been arrested, you absolutely need the aggressive representation that only an experienced Kansas City DUI attorney can provide.

Being convicted for driving under the influence can have serious repercussions and impact your life in a negative way.  Not only may your insurance rates rise (or you lose coverage altogether), you may find securing employment difficult.  Your reputation may be tarnished, and you face penalties that include steep fines, possible jail time and loss of your driving privileges.  In order to avoid as much of this as possible, it is important that you have a capable Kansas City DUI lawyer who is willing to take vigorous action on your behalf.

The outcome often depends on the level of experience and skill your Kansas City DUI attorney possesses.  A lawyer with significant trial experience and in-depth knowledge of the laws in the local area can usually secure a much more positive outcome than one who is new with little experience representing clients.  As with most professions, the more hands-on experience an individual has the more effective they are in their job.  It is no different in the case of a reliable Kansas City DUI attorney.

You could accept a court-appointed attorney, but you are putting your future in jeopardy and will likely pay legal fees regardless, so why not be in control of your own situation?  A Kansas City criminal attorney will offer you support, advice, guidance and the skill necessary to either have the charges against you dropped, or reduced so that you suffer less of a negative impact to your life.

Compassionate attorneys do not simply represent you in court; they will challenge the evidence brought against you, investigate the details, question any possible witnesses, demand proof that breath/field sobriety tests were properly executed and that the results are reliable and more.  You do not want a criminal record, nor do you want to be put in jail and pay hundreds or even thousands of dollars in fines and court fees.  Rely on a trusted Kansas City DUI lawyer when you have been arrested for DUI.

98,000 Dehumidifiers Recalled Due to Fire Risk

Friday, October 21st, 2011

Dehumidifiers that were sold by Ace Hardware, Walmart, The Home Depot, Orgill, Inc., Do It Best and various other retailers across the nation between January of 2007 and June of 2008 are being recalled due to a serious fire and burn hazard.  LG Electronics Tianjin Appliance is recalling the Goldstar and Comfort-Aire dehumidifiers, believed to be responsible for over $1 million in property damage.

The products were recalled originally in December of 2009 after 11 incidents, including 4 significant fires, resulted due to use of the dehumidifiers.  Since that date 16 additional reports of fire, smoke and arcing have been reported.  It appears that the power connector for the compressor can short circuit, which poses hazards to consumers and their property.

Goldstar and Comfort-Aire 30 pint portable dehumidifiers are involved in the recall, and are white in color with a red shut-off button.  The dehumidifiers have a front-loading water bucket and controls for humidity levels and fan speed.  The brand name is printed on the front.  Model and serial numbers of affected dehumidifiers are listed below:

Goldstar model no. GHD30Y7

611TAxx00001 through 08400
611TAxx08401 through 40600
612TAxx00001 through 20400
612TAxx21001 through 30600

Goldstar model no. DH305Y7

612TAxx00001 through 00600
701TAxx00001 through 16800
702TAxx00001 through 03000

Comfort-Aire model no. BHD-301-C

611TA000001 through 001697
612TA000001 through 004200
701TA000001 through 000578
710TA000001 through 000599

Serial numbers are visible on the interior of the products when water bucket is removed.  Significant fires have resulted in homes in PA, MN, MA, IN, OH, and NJ.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission and LG Electronics are concerned that only 2% of the 98,000 customers who have purchased the dehumidifiers have received a free repair, meaning that customers and property may be at serious risk.  The CPSC urges consumers to stop using the dehumidifiers and contact LG Electronics for a free repair.

Consumers who have the dehumidifiers listed above may call (877) 220-0479 Monday through Friday between the hours of 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. central time to locate an authorized service center.

Those who have been injured or lost property because of defective products may have cause to file a lawsuit for compensation of costs related to their loss.  Brown Chiari is a team of New York defective products attorneys who are aggressive and dedicated to seeking justice for our clients.

The Advantages of Having a Kansas City DUI Attorney On Your Side

Thursday, October 6th, 2011

Nothing can make you sink faster than an officer pulling you over after a celebration. The sound of the siren, the flashing lights, and the officer’s saunter up to your window. You try not to panic, but you think to yourself how much you had to drink, and wonder. Before you know it, you’re being pulled out of your car for a field sobriety test. However, this is not necessarily the end; you have rights and options that allow you to legally fight this injustice with the help of a Kansas City DUI attorney.

A talented DUI defense attorney in Kansas City will make it their job to study the ins and outs of the local law; they know your rights as a driver. A skilled attorney will walk you through each step in the process, holding your hand the entire way. He will help you organize all of your paperwork, so that you can present a clear and concise argument to the judge. Prior to this, there is still much to be done.

Make sure that whenever you go to a bar and have a drink, something to eat, whatever it may be, that you get a receipt that itemizes your purchases. This little slip of paper can save you a world of trouble, because now you have written proof as to what you had to drink and eat. It will also provide a timeline for how long you were in the restaurant, who you were with, and what you did. You can present this receipt to your Kansas City DUI attorney.

When pulled over, be polite but do not offer any information.  Do not jump to the conclusion that you were pulled over for driving under the influence. If the officer suspects that you have been drinking he will issue a field sobriety test, which should be clearly explained to you. Even if you are administered a breathalyzer test, a skilled Kansas City DUI lawyer will often challenge the results.

If you are arrested, call a reputable Kansas City DUI attorney at once.  There are time limitations in regards to appealing for your driving rights, and a qualified lawyer can answer any questions you have, providing sound legal counsel and guidance.  An attorney will work aggressively to have the charges against you dropped, but when this is not possible penalties can often be reduced.  Being convicted on charges of driving under the influence can have a negative impact on every area of your life, so consult with a Kansas City DUI lawyer and never try to handle it yourself.

Indiana Shoplifting Laws are No Laughing Matter

Friday, August 5th, 2011

You may be a teen or young adult who took something that did not belong to you “just for the fun of it”, or you may be an adult who, due to the economy, took something you really needed because you could not afford to pay for it. No matter what the reason, you need to be aware that Indiana shoplifting laws are harsh, and you could be placing yourself in serious jeopardy.

The laws regarding shoplifting vary from state to state; while it may not be a serious crime in some areas, the Indiana shoplifting laws are very clear, and the penalties steep.  Not only may you be facing huge fines, you could find yourself behind bars.  This is a criminal offense that may be considered a felony or misdemeanor depending upon the value of the merchandise you took.  When you do find yourself in trouble, consult with a reputable Indiana shoplifting attorney.

Shoplifting does not necessarily mean that you physically steal an item that does not belong to you without paying for it.  It can also involve switching price tags with UPC labels from one item to another, so that the item is cheaper than its original value.  You may write a check that you know is no good.  You need to be aware of Indiana shoplifting laws so that you do not make a mistake that could cost you not only monetarily, but in other ways such as loss of reputation and employment.

Never believe that you can get away with it.  A prosecutor’s job is to punish you, not to help, which is the job of an Indiana shoplifting attorney when you have been arrested and need legal counsel.  While a skilled attorney is happy to provide advice and defense for you, it is to your advantage never to get caught up in a legal mess in the first place.

Even for a first offense that is classified as a class A misdemeanor, you could be facing fines of up to $5,000 (which does not include courts costs and other fees) and jail time of up to one year.  Is it really worth the risk?  Indiana shoplifting laws are some of the toughest in the United States, so be aware that getting caught is going to cost you much more than the value of the merchandise you took.  If you really have to have the goods, it’s better to spend $50 now than possibly thousands later if a lawyer cannot get you off the hook.

Stark Law Offices, Criminal & DUI Defense
201 N. Illinois St., Indianapolis, IN 46204 (317) 273-8888
450 E. 96th St., Ste. 500 Indianapolis, IN 46240 (317) 818-6035

An Effective Indiana Criminal Defense Lawyer is Capable of Protecting Your Future

Wednesday, January 19th, 2011

If you have been accused of theft, shoplifting, drug or sex crimes or even a white collar crime, you need an effective Indiana criminal defense lawyer who is capable of protecting your rights and your freedom.  Without superior representation, your entire future and reputation can be ruined.  A capable attorney knows and understands criminal laws in the state of Indiana, and will work aggressively to ensure your future looks as promising as possible.

Prior to everything else that may take place, you will probably have many questions; it is frightening to be arrested or charged with a criminal offense, and you do not know what is going to happen to you.  A qualified Indiana criminal defense lawyer will explain the charges you are facing, what may happen, and what steps he intends to take on your behalf, so that your freedom and rights are protected.

The best advice any Indiana criminal defense lawyer will give you is not to talk to police officers, investigators or anyone else without the presence or permission of your attorney.  It is to your advantage that you realize that no one is on your side except your attorney and possibly your family; whatever information you give to anyone can and will be used against you, no matter how much you may believe that an individual is trying to help you.

Felonies and misdemeanors carry various penalties and fines; any time you are accused of a crime, it is a serious matter.  Depending upon the crime, you may be looking at extremely large fines and imprisonment, which can affect your future and your reputation.  When you have a criminal record, it’s often hard if not impossible to find work.  A dedicated Indiana criminal defense lawyer will work aggressively to challenge all evidence against you, and have charges dropped whenever possible.

It is always best to retain the services of a reputable Indiana criminal defense lawyer before charges are filed if possible.  A capable attorney may be able to prevent the filing of charges against you, or have charges greatly reduced, so it’s best not to take a “wait and see” approach.  In doing so, you may be setting yourself up for stiffer fines and penalties than are necessary.  If you’ve been accused of a crime, put your future in the hands of an experienced and compassionate Indiana criminal defense lawyer.

Illnesses Linked to Bravo Farms Gouda Cheese Continue to Rise

Monday, January 3rd, 2011

On November 24th the number of illnesses related to Bravo Farms Gouda cheese increased to 38.  As reported in recent weeks, the cheese product was found to be tainted with E. Coli O157:H7.  This latest report brings the number of illnesses related to Bravo Farms in Colorado to 11.

Other than 11 illnesses in Colorado, there have been 27 in other states including Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada and California.  It’s nearly certain that many more people were sickened by the Gouda cheese, but many cases of food poisoning go unreported each year.  Most people, who develop symptoms such as nausea, fever, abdominal cramps and diarrhea assume they have the stomach flu and never report their illness.

The Bravo Farms Dutch Style Gouda cheese was originally recalled on November 5, 2010 following a multistate investigation that revealed E. Coli contamination.  The Gouda cheese was distributed primarily through Costco stores, along with various retail stores in California.  Products affected included the 1.5 lb. and 8 oz. packages.

Recently, on November 23rd, the company expanded the recall to all of its cheese products.  This action was taken after laboratory testing by the California Department of Food and Agriculture revealed contamination with both E. Coli and listeria monocytogenes.  So far, there are no reported illnesses linked to the Bravo Farms cheese products said to be contaminated with listeria monocytogenes.

While E. Coli normally produces only mild symptoms that may include nausea, abdominal cramps, diarrhea and vomiting, some people are at an increased risk of developing serious complications, including HUS, a potentially life threatening condition.  Those individuals most at risk include the very young, the frail or elderly and those with a compromised immune system.  Those most at risk are advised to seek medical attention at once if E. Coli or and foodborne bacteria is suspected.

New York based Brown Chiari is a dedicated food poisoning law firm specializing in foodborne illnesses.  Contact us to learn of rights you may have in regards to compensation of medical and other expenses you may have incurred related to food poisoning.

Hiring a Capable Indiana Personal Injury Lawyer Can Affect The Outcome of Your Lawsuit

Monday, January 3rd, 2011

When you have been injured in an auto accident, never assume you should hire the first Indiana personal injury lawyer you come to in the phone book.  The attorney you decide to hire can absolutely affect the outcome of your lawsuit, and you deserve every dime of compensation from those who are responsible for your injuries.

You realize that the person or party who caused your injuries did not do so purposely; they may have fallen asleep at the wheel after working all night, been talking on a cell phone, or simply could not see because of inclement weather conditions.  No matter what the reason, never feel sorry for them – YOU are the one who will be facing lost work and a mountain of medical bills!  Contact a dedicated Indiana personal injury lawyer who will place all of his attention on getting your future back on track.

You never know what is around the corner when you are driving.  Suffering injuries because of an auto accident can have a devastating impact on your life and your future, depending on the severity of your injuries.  You may be unable to work for a couple of months, or you may never work again.  Medical costs are astronomical today, and you should not be responsible for them when you are not at fault.  A reputable Indiana personal injury lawyer will ensure that you are not financially ruined by making sure the responsible party is held accountable.

Unfortunately, there are attorneys who tend to side with insurance companies simply because they feel that most people involved in auto accidents are “crying wolf” in order to get money.  A compassionate Indiana personal injury lawyer recognizes when an individual is seriously injured, and when their life depends on a successful verdict.  You may be compensated for medical costs, lost wages, repairs to your vehicle and even pain and suffering, depending on your particular circumstances.

The best advice to you – never hire an attorney assuming that one is just as capable or experienced as the next, as this is simply not the case.  Depend on a seasoned Indiana personal injury attorney with the expertise and dedication required to get the job done!  Your future (and possibly the future of your family) depends on it.  You did not cause the accident, and you should not be responsible for paying all of the costs associated with it.