Author Archives: Jay Butchko

Florida Tort Reform Results in Record Case Filings
On March 24, Gov. Ron DeSantis signed House Bill (HB) 837 into law. The bill was created with several goals in mind. The primary aim was to decrease frivolous lawsuits. HB 837 also modifies the bad faith framework. It eliminates one way attorney’s fees and fee multipliers as well as ensures that Florida residents… Read More »

HOA Dispute Over Rocks
It’s frustrating when homeowners cannot decorate their home and yard how they want, but that’s the price of living in a homeowners association (HOA). HOAs are designed to bring uniformity to a neighborhood. They require all homeowners to obey stringent rules, especially when it comes to keeping their yard a certain way. This has… Read More »

1 Injured in Crash Involving Car, Semi Truck
Semi-trucks are common sights on Florida roadways. These large vehicles carry tens of thousands of pounds of freight, from building materials to electronics to food to cars to everyday household goods. A collision with one of these trucks can be catastrophic. This was the case in Apopka on the morning of July 21. A… Read More »

Failure to Disclose Property Defects
Buying a home is an exciting feeling. You finally have a place to call your own. You did your research and you think you made a good decision – until you experience an issue. You might notice a leak somewhere. Maybe there’s mold growing in the shower. The air conditioner stops working. The sinks… Read More »

Problems With Non-Compete Agreements
The business world involves many legal documents. If you are an employee, you may have seen something called a non-compete agreement. Non-compete agreements are clauses in employment contracts that prevent workers from working for competitors if they decide to quit their current job. These documents limit where employees can work in order to reduce… Read More »

Property Damage Claims in Florida
Many people love living in Florida, but the Sunshine State is no stranger to natural disasters. Tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, tropical storms, and fires are all common. These weather issues can cause a lot of destruction. Florida residents who have insurance can file a claim for property damage. If damage occurs to your home, and… Read More »

DoorDash Driver Assaulted, Kidnapped: Assailant Arrested
It’s a tough economy out there. It’s not uncommon to work multiple jobs to make ends meet. Many people do gig work as a delivery driver or DoorDash delivery person in order to make extra money. While this type of job can be lucrative, it can also be dangerous. Customers and random people in… Read More »

Florida One of Top States in Nation for HOA Disputes
When thinking of homeowners associations (HOAs), many individuals may roll their eyes in disgust. There’s no doubt that many HOAs have a poor reputation. Originally meant to help neighborhoods maintain property values, many HOAs have been a source of anxiety and stress in modern times when not operating in accordance with applicable law. Homeowners… Read More »

Man Dies After Suffering Medical Emergency in Bradenton Crash
The thing about medical emergencies is that they can happen at any time. They can come about suddenly, without any warning. A person may not have any symptoms beforehand, which can lead to a dangerous or even deadly situation if they are driving. This was recently the case in Bradenton. A man suffered a… Read More »

Man Killed in Florida Bicycle Accident
Many people ride bicycles for recreation. While bikes provide a good source of exercise, they can be unsafe, especially when ridden around larger vehicles. When bicycles collide with motor vehicles, the results can be catastrophic and even deadly. Unfortunately, this was recently the case in Florida. A man was killed after he was hit… Read More »