Florida’s COVID-19 Shield Law
Late last month, Governor DeSantis signed into law a COVID-19 claim immunity shield, titled Civil Liability for Damages Relating to COVID-19 (Fla. Stat. § 768.38). Under the Act, businesses, educational institutions, governmental entities and religious institutions...
COVID-19 Update
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, our office has changed its policies to protect both our employees and our clients. At this time, we are not currently open to the public. We are conducting all meetings by phone or Zoom, including intake appointments. If...
Have You Considered Enforcement or Modification?
My name is Beth Miller. I am the newest addition to Thompson, Crawford & Smiley and I am an attorney that works in our family law section. I wanted to remind everyone that we are here for you to help navigate you through any family law matter that you may need...
What Do I Need to File with the State of Florida to Open a Business?
Some business structures require that you file document with the Florida Department of State. Each of the business structures below require an annual registration as well as an annual fee of around $75.00 to $150.00. For Corporations If you chose to use a corporate...
Does your business need employees or independent contractors?
Determining your employee structure is an important part of developing your business. Do you want to have employees or independent contractors? Whether you feel that you will need employees or independent contractors, you will need agreements detailing your...
Fender Bender Protocol
The first thing to do is report the accident to law enforcement. Even if there is minor damage and you feel okay, you are in the heat of the moment and might not notice the extent of the damage. Also, it might take a little bit of time to start feeling your injuries....
Planning for the Unexpected: Everything You Need to Know About Wills in Florida
What is a will? A will is a written document that controls the disposition of property at death. Why Do I Need a Will? Through a valid will, you get to decide who gets your property instead of the law making the choice for you. This includes property such as family...
Can Creditors Take My Home Away?
The short answer is…it depends. The Homestead Exemption Article X, Section 4 of the Florida Constitution is one of the highest forms of protection that a person can have regarding their homes and properties here in Florida. Known as “homestead exemption,” this section...
Alimony Basics in Florida Divorce
One of the most contentious parts of a divorce is alimony. There are many thoughts that generally boil down to the following questions: Do I have to pay alimony? If so, how much and for how long?Will I receive any alimony? If so, how much and for how long? Then the...
Now practicing in Georgia
Thompson, Crawford & Smiley is excited to announce that Mallory Bennett is now practicing in Georgia along with Tom Thompson, who has been practicing in Georgia since 1991! While Ms. Bennett’s practice in Georgia will focus on employment law, she will also be able...