Stockham Law Group, P.A.Stockham Law Group, P.A.2026-06-18T20:15:24Zhttps://www.stockhamlawgroup.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1204338/2022/06/cropped-Stockham-Law-Group-site-icon-1-32x32.jpgOn Behalf of Stockham Law Group, P.A.<![CDATA[3 signs of nursing home abuse of an adult in cognitive decline]]>https://www.stockhamlawgroup.com/?p=2499932026-05-19T19:50:05Z2026-05-19T19:50:05Z1. Unexplained injuries
Family members might notice bruises, lacerations or even worse injuries, such as fractures, when they visit. Workers might offhandedly claim that an older adult fell or may insist that no one knows what caused those injuries. One or two unexplained bruises may not indicate a serious issue, but recurring, unexplained injuries can be indicative of mistreatment that no nursing home resident should have to endure.
2. Changes in behavior and personality
Cognitive decline generally creates a drastic shift in behavior and temperament. However, people often remain very attached to the people they recognize and remember. When they begin withdrawing from those relationships, even during in-person visits, that may be a sign that they have experienced abuse. In cases where they lash out irrationally, especially in the presence of certain nursing home employees, that could also be a warning sign that they have suffered abuse.
3. Challenges obtaining alone time
One-on-one conversations or private family interactions are valuable for everyone when an older adult is in decline. When nursing home employees refuse to leave the room or hover nearby during family visits, their goal may be to monitor conversations or even intimidate the nursing home resident rather than to be on hand to provide support.
Families may need to discuss their concerns about potential nursing home abuse with a legal professional. Filing a lawsuit can help families address the expenses caused by nursing home abuse, including increased medical costs and relocation expenses. A lawsuit can also lead to a facility terminating an abusive employee or changing other business practices.]]>On Behalf of Stockham Law Group, P.A.<![CDATA[How Anti-Concurrent Causation clauses affect insurance claims]]>https://www.stockhamlawgroup.com/?p=2499702026-04-19T15:24:32Z2026-04-19T15:24:32ZWhat is an ACC clause?
Insurance companies include ACC clauses in their policies to limit their financial exposure. The concurrent causation doctrine favors policyholders, so insurance companies add ACC clauses to limit their risk.
Typically, the ACC clause is near the beginning of the exclusion section of the policy paperwork. This clause essentially protects the insurance company from liability if an excluded source of damages contributed to the property damage included in the claim.
ACC clauses often address sequential events, such as an excluded event that occurs after a covered event. They also address scenarios where both an excluded and a covered form of peril occur simultaneously.
During a hurricane, for example, the policy might cover wind damage but exclude flooding damage. Given that both of these forms of peril impact the property at the same time, the insurance company potentially has the ability to deny the entire claim despite the presence of a covered source of damages. Even in cases where an excluded source of risk only caused a minimal amount of the property damage, the ACC clause may allow the insurance company to deny the entire claim.
After a Florida hurricane, homeowners may find themselves experiencing a “slab claim” scenario. The storm caused the absolute destruction of the improvements on the property, leaving only the concrete slab foundation.
Homeowners may need to prove what order certain damage occurred in order to prove that they have the right to receive any compensation for the damage to their property. Homeowners may need assistance from legal professionals who can assess the insurance policy and forensic engineers who can help evaluate the different types of damage that occurred.
Negotiating a policy without ACC clauses before damage occurs can also be beneficial. Policyholders may want to review their property coverage policies with a legal professional before they renew or purchase coverage to ensure they won't face an uphill battle if they ever need to make a claim after a hurricane or similar event. Understanding the potential complications that can arise during insurance claims can help policyholders pursue the coverage they’ve purchased.]]>On Behalf of Stockham Law Group, P.A.<![CDATA[How HOAs can stay compliant with local laws]]>https://www.stockhamlawgroup.com/?p=2499662026-03-17T14:40:16Z2026-03-17T14:40:16ZStay informed about local laws and changes
Local laws change more often than most boards expect. Missing even a small update can put your association in a difficult spot. If your rules rely on outdated requirements, you may find yourself enforcing something that no longer applies, which makes it easier for homeowners to challenge your decisions.
Align your governing documents with local requirements
Your governing documents must match current local laws, otherwise you risk enforcing rules that do not hold up when challenged. For example, if your HOA restricts something that a local ordinance now allows, a homeowner can push back and the rule may not stand.
Reviewing and updating your documents helps you avoid relying on rules that no longer work the way you expect.
Apply rules consistently and fairly across the community
Inconsistent enforcement can undermine your ability to enforce any rule at all. If you overlook a violation for one homeowner but enforce the same rule against another, that difference can be used against you when the rule is challenged. Over time, that pattern can make it harder to rely on your own policies, even when they are valid.
Work with professionals when issues become unclear
Some situations can put your association at risk if you get them wrong, especially when a rule may conflict with local law or a homeowner pushes back on enforcement. Acting without checking can lead to decisions you later have to reverse or defend. Getting input from a community association attorney before moving forward can help you avoid taking a position that creates legal or operational problems.
Make sure your association stays on the right track
If something feels off between your rules and what is actually allowed locally, it is usually a sign to take a closer look. A quick review now can save your association from dealing with disputes or pushback later. If you are not sure how a rule holds up or how to enforce it, a community association attorney can help you understand where you stand and what your next step should be.]]>On Behalf of Stockham Law Group, P.A.<![CDATA[Adjust like a pro: Stockham Law Group attorneys to take the stage at FAPIA 2025]]>https://www.stockhamlawgroup.com/?p=2499082026-01-30T20:48:01Z2025-09-25T22:54:10ZThe Florida Association of Public Insurance Adjusters (FAPIA) will hold its fall conference, FAPIA LIVE 2025: Building Success – The Public Adjuster Blueprint from October 12 to 14 at the Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek.
This year’s event will offer education, hands-on training and networking to help public adjusters across Florida improve their work.
Attorneys bringing experience to the panel
Attorneys Nicole Vinson and Falyn Hahn of Stockham Law Group will lead a featured session. Nicole will join FAPIA board members as a panelist and Falyn will moderate the discussion.
Nicole Vinson: She is a sixth-generation lawyer who focuses on helping policyholders. She has handled hurricane, flood, fire and disaster cases and has spoken before the Florida legislature about insurance protections. She works to hold insurers accountable when they mishandle claims.
Falyn Hahn: She is a property insurance lawyer who used to defend insurance companies. That experience now helps her predict and fight insurer tactics for homeowners, businesses and associations. As moderator, she will lead a practical, solutions-based discussion.
Together, they will show attendees how legal strategies connect with claims handling in real-world practice.
Why this conversation matters
When property damage happens, fair and quick handling of claims can make the difference between recovery and serious money problems. Many policyholders still deal with delays, low estimates or unfair denials.Panels like this give adjusters simple legal tips and tools they can use in their work. By learning from attorneys who fight these cases in court, attendees can do a better job protecting policyholders and solving claims.
More opportunities at FAPIA LIVE 2025
This year’s conference will give public adjusters a clear plan for growth. Attendees will get access to:
TEAM Talks: Quick sessions on tech, ethics, advocacy and skills.
Exhibitor showcase: New tools and services for adjusters.
Power networking: Time to connect with other adjusters and industry leaders.
CE/CLE courses: Expert-led classes with credit options.
These sessions will help adjusters build skills and stay connected to the industry.
Learn more about the attorneys behind the panel
Nicole Vinson and Falyn Hahn bring useful experience to this year’s program. They mix legal know-how with practical tips for adjusters and both focus on protecting policyholders in tough insurance cases. To read more about them, visitNicole Vinson’s profile orFalyn Hahn’s profile.]]>On Behalf of Stockham Law Group, P.A.<![CDATA[What should you do if you suspect nursing home abuse?]]>https://www.stockhamlawgroup.com/?p=2498692026-01-30T20:49:13Z2025-09-05T14:54:26ZNursing home abuse in Florida can escalate quickly. You can protect your loved one by acting immediately and keeping clear records.
Ensure immediate safety
If someone is in danger, call 911. Ask the facility to send your loved one for a medical exam. If necessary, arrange a temporary transfer to a safer location and notify a trusted physician.
Preserve and document evidence
You create a simple record that may support a report or claim later. Keep the following records:
Photographs: Injuries, bedsores or unsafe conditions.
Notes: Dates, times, names, exact quotes and room locations.
Medical records: ER summaries, medication lists and progress notes.
Witness details: Staff or residents willing to share what they saw.
Financial papers: Bank alerts, missing items or sudden account changes.
Store copies in one folder. Write a short timeline so details stay consistent.
Who to contact in Florida
Start with these state resources that protect seniors and oversee nursing homes. You can call:
Florida Abuse Hotline: 800-962-2873.
Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA): 888-419-3465.
Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program: 888-831-0404.
Local law enforcement: For emergencies or suspected crimes.
Florida law treats abuse of an elderly or disabled adult as a felony under Chapter 825. The penalties depend on how serious the abuse is.
What not to do
Do not threaten staff or confront suspected abusers yourself. Avoid posting details on social media. Do not sign incident forms, waivers or settlement papers without reviewing them later. Do not delay medical care while you “wait to see” if things improve.
Doing any of these things can jeopardize legal action you might take in the future without you realizing.
Follow up and track responses
Request a written incident report and ask how the facility will protect your loved one. Log every call, email or meeting. Confirm complaints with short recap emails. Recheck injuries and living conditions during follow-up visits.
A practical next step
You may find it helpful to get legal advice on how to save evidence and report the abuse. You can also talk with a Florida nursing home abuse lawyer to better understand your options and what steps to take next.]]>On Behalf of Stockham Law Group, P.A.<![CDATA[Stockham Law Group announces webinar on the claims process]]>https://www.stockhamlawgroup.com/?p=2498792026-01-30T20:49:42Z2025-08-21T19:48:13ZMore on the presentation
In the complex world of property insurance claims, having a knowledgeable advocate can make all the difference. Attorney Kelly Fantetti, based in the Tampa office of Stockham Law Group, P.A., will discuss how professionals can better ensure a successful claim process. The presentation will touch on tips to start the process, move forward with initial investigations, and discuss how to submit a proper claim. It will also explain what to do in the event of reinspection as well as how to work through appraisals. The presenters will also provide an outline of how to handle mediation and lawsuits, all well explaining the role of ethics throughout the process.
Educational and professional experience
Attorney Fantetti's has many academic achievements that laid a strong foundation for her legal career. She earned her Juris Doctor from Western Michigan Thomas M. Cooley Law School in 2011, graduating magna cum laude and contributing to the Law Review.
Mrs. Fantetti's practice focuses on a range of critical areas:
Residential and commercial property insurance litigation
Agent errors and omissions
Construction defects
Her expertise extends to handling claims involving wind, water, sinkholes, fire, and flood damages. In addition to helping educate those in the field through professional presentations such as the one noted above, attorney Fantetti’s also uses her comprehensive knowledge and network to benefit her clients.
Kelly Fantetti represents homeowners, business owners, and condominium associations and has bar admissions in Florida, Michigan, and Texas. Attorney Kelly Fantetti's unique blend of education, experience, and dedication makes her an invaluable resource for those working through the challenging landscape of property insurance claims.]]>On Behalf of Stockham Law Group, P.A.<![CDATA[Announcing the HOA & Condominium Board Certification Course]]>https://www.stockhamlawgroup.com/?p=2498802026-06-17T17:03:33Z2025-07-14T20:39:23ZAbout the Presenter: George D. Root, III
George Root is based in the Tampa office of Stockham Law Group, P.A. and specializes in providing comprehensive general counsel and litigation services to community associations throughout Florida. His experience encompasses a wide range of legal needs for the successful operation of community associations, including:
Deed restriction violation enforcement
Delinquent assessment collection
Compliance and preservation of governing documents
Revitalization and interpretation of governing documents
Risk management and litigation
Creditor bankruptcy services
George Root's experience spans over a decade, during which he has provided counsel to community associations throughout the state. His active involvement in several chapters of the Community Association Institute underscores his commitment to the field. He also dedicates time to developing and teaching board certification courses and continuing education units for property managers.
Course Details and Benefits
The HOA & Condominium Board Certification Course offers board members a comprehensive understanding of their roles and responsibilities. Boards must follow state law, and it is important to note the law does evolve. Participants will gain insights into effective governance and legal compliance, helping to better ensure the smooth operation of their associations. By attending this course, board members will be better equipped to handle the complexities of community association management. The knowledge gained will empower them to make informed decisions that benefit their communities.
The Stockham Law Group invites all interested board members to participate in this certification course. Under the guidance of George D. Root, III, attendees will receive instruction tailored to the unique needs of community associations. For more information or to register, please contact George D. Root, III at 813.867.4455 or Groot@StockhamLawGroup.com.
]]>On Behalf of Stockham Law Group, P.A.<![CDATA[What should you know if a tree falls on your house?]]>https://www.stockhamlawgroup.com/?p=2496462026-01-30T20:50:29Z2025-05-01T16:29:52ZMost homeowners never think that something catastrophic will happen to their home, but they still obtain homeowners’ insurance just in case something does. One event that might occur is a tree falling on the home, which may be the result of a severe storm.
If a tree falls on your home, you have to put safety first. Ensure everyone is safe and leave the house, especially if there’s a risk of collapse or any damage to the electrical components. You may need to contact the utility company so they can secure the damage.
Insurance company role
You’ll also have to contact your homeowners insurance provider as soon as possible. Most policies cover damage caused by fallen trees, especially if the fall was due to a storm, wind or other covered event. Your insurer will walk you through the claims process, but you’ll want to take photos of the damage right away and avoid making any permanent repairs until the adjuster has seen the property.Once you file a claim, the insurance company should send an adjuster to assess the damage. Be sure to keep all receipts related to temporary repairs, such as boarding up broken windows or hiring an emergency tree removal service. These may be reimbursable.
Delayed or undervalued claims
In some cases, homeowners find that their insurance coverage doesn’t fully address the damage, or that the claim is delayed or undervalued. If you believe your insurer isn’t honoring your policy or is acting in bad faith, you have options. Start by reviewing your policy closely and documenting all communication. Obtaining the assistance of someone familiar with insurance disputes may be beneficial in these cases. ]]>On Behalf of Stockham Law Group, P.A.<![CDATA[Is the insurance company ignoring your attempts to contact them?]]>https://www.stockhamlawgroup.com/?p=2496302026-01-30T20:53:53Z2025-04-17T12:20:23ZYou know that you need to file an insurance claim and that you have valid coverage on your property. It has been significantly damaged, so you need compensation to pay for the repairs and other costs.
However, you find it very difficult to actually get in touch with the insurance company. You file your claim, and you hear nothing back. You call and leave messages, but no one answers. When they do answer, it takes weeks or even months to hear anything. Why is this happening?
Bad faith insurance practices
This could be an example of bad faith, which is when insurance companies act in a way that is detrimental to their own policyholders. One way that this happens is when they create unreasonable delays, perhaps simply by making it difficult for you to communicate with them.From the insurance company’s perspective, it is best for them if they deny your claim or if you drop your case. But if there is not a valid reason to deny the claim, they may consider creating these delays in the hopes that you will stop pursuing the payout that you deserve. It’s a form of manipulation.It is also a prohibited practice. Insurance companies must abide by the contracts that they have signed with policyholders, and they cannot take intentional steps to avoid payouts that are due. But it still happens, despite these provisions, so it is very important to understand all of the legal options available to you if you find yourself in this position. It can help to work with an experienced law firm at this time.]]>On Behalf of Stockham Law Group, P.A.<![CDATA[The most common enforcement mistake condo boards and HOAs make]]>https://www.stockhamlawgroup.com/?p=2496292026-01-30T20:56:13Z2025-04-04T18:38:54ZSelective rule enforcement undermines enforcement ability
HOA and condo association boards typically need to apply all community rules consistently. Ignoring certain rule violations only to enforce the rules in other cases can look discriminatory. Allowing certain property owners to get away with noise violations or unkempt yards can create scenarios in which others then flagrantly violate the rules as well.
Boards need to be consistent in the enforcement of rules to ensure that they don't risk the loss of enforcement authority in the future. Selective rule enforcement is one of the most common and successful defenses to HOA and condo board enforcement activities. Homeowners might take the board to court and win if they can show that the board has not consistently enforced the rules when other similar violations occurred.
Asking a homeowner to remove a fence or landscaping plants that violate community standards can become much more difficult if the board has previously ignored other property owners making similar improvements to their homes or yards. Proactive communication about potential violations and consistent rule enforcement help ensure that HOAs retain their authority.
In some cases, new board members may need to review enforcement records and suggest communicating with property owners to validate more assertive enforcement of the rules in the future. Understanding that selective enforcement can curtail the board's authority can help those serving a condominium association or HOA board protect their authority and maintain community standards.]]>
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