A NEW YEAR, A NEW BEGINNING
Jason B. Goldman • February 13, 2016
Do you have any current disagreements that might turn into a lawsuit, or any pending litigation that seems far from ever ending? Is that disagreement grating on you everyday, and becoming more and more expensive to litigate with each passing month?
It’s the start of a new year, a time to take a fresh look at things, and maybe consider your dispute from a new perspective. Rather than continue the day-to-day stress and expense of dealing with your current disagreement or litigation, why not consider mediating the dispute to a conclusion right now so you can eliminate the daily stress and expense on your life?
How does mediation work?
No matter where the mediation of your case or dispute takes place, whether it be in Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, or Englewood, the process is quite similar. Mediation is the process where parties to a dispute and their attorneys can simply sit down and attempt to negotiate a reasonable settlement satisfactory to both parties. Mediation is a straightforward process. A mediator, who is an impartial observer, meets with the parties and their attorneys in a relaxed setting in an effort to promote open communication and a spirit of cooperation. Mediation In Charlotte County (or any other county for that matter) is somewhat similar to marriage counseling: the mediator will try and get the parties and their attorneys to communicate effectively and openly, so that they might come together, on their own, with a solution to the problem that is better for both than the alternative of taking a case through trial.
By serving as an impartial facilitator in the process, a mediator attempts to get both sides to reach a mutually satisfactory settlement of the case without further time and attorney fee expense being incurred by the parties to the dispute.
Does a mediator get to make rulings and decide which party is “right”?
Absolutely not. A mediator In Charlotte County (or any other county for that matter) has no authority to render a decision. A mediator simply tries to help the parties reach a mutually agreeable solution to their dispute. Mediation is impartial, neutral, and safe. The mediator has an equal and balanced responsibility to assist each mediating party and cannot favor the interests of any one party over another. The mediator’s role is to ensure that parties reach agreements in a voluntarily and informed manner, and not as a result of coercion or intimidation. A disagreement can only be settled if both parties agree to settle. The parties have complete decision-making power in the mediation process, not their attorneys nor the mediator. Nothing can be imposed on the parties by anyone involved in the mediation process.
Is mediation an available option before a lawsuit is filed?
Yes. Mediation can occur at any time during a dispute, which surprises most people. In many instances, mediation can occur and be successful prior to a lawsuit ever being filed. This can save the parties a substantial amount of money in attorney’s fees and court costs. In cases where a lawsuit has been filed, the trial judge will likely order the parties to attempt mediation as a way of resolving their case prior to trial. Mediation is mandatory in civil cases in many jurisdictions throughout the State of Florida.
Is mediation confidential?
Yes. Anything which the parties say to the mediator or to the other side during the mediation process is confidential. That means the parties can never be questioned about statements they may have made to the mediator or during the mediation process. Whether you pursue medication in Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, Sarasota, Englewood, or Venice, confidentiality is a constant throughout the process.
What are the benefits of mediation?
- Mediation promotes economical decisions: Mediation is generally less expensive when contrasted to the expense of litigation.
- Mediation promotes swift settlements: In an era when it may take as long as two (2) years to get a trial date, and multiple years if a case is appealed, the mediation alternative often provides a more timely way of resolving disputes. When parties want to get on with business or their lives, mediation may be desirable as a means of producing direct results.
- Mediation promotes mutually beneficial outcomes: Parties are generally more satisfied with solutions that have been mutually agreed upon, as opposed to solutions that are imposed by a third party decision-maker such as a judge or jury.
- Mediation promotes high rates of compliance: Parties who have reached their own agreement in mediation are also generally more likely to follow through and comply with its terms than those whose resolution has been imposed by a third party decision-maker such as a judge or jury.
- Mediation promotes creative, customized settlements: Mediated settlements are able to address both legal and extra-legal issues. The parties can tailor their settlement and its terms to their particular situation in ways that a judge or jury cannot do.
- Mediation promotes control by the parties: Parties who negotiate their own settlements have more control over the outcome of their dispute. Gains and losses are more predictable in a mediated settlement than they would be if a case is arbitrated or brought before a judge or jury.
- Mediation promotes the preservation of an ongoing relationship or termination of a relationship in a more amicable way: Many disputes occur in the context of relationships that will continue over future years, particularly with disputes involving family members. A mediated settlement that addresses all parties’ interests can often preserve a working relationship in ways that would not be possible in a win/lose lawsuit. Mediation can also make the termination of a relationship more amicable.
- Mediation promotes decisions that stand the test of time: Mediated settlements tend to hold up over time, and if a later dispute results, the parties are more likely to utilize a cooperative forum of problem-solving to resolve their differences than to pursue an adversarial approach.
So if you or someone you know might want to resolve a long-standing business or personal dispute once and for all through mediation in Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, or Englewood, please have them contact us and we can schedule mediation which is convenient for all parties and their attorneys.
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As Father's Day approaches, Charlotte County families are planning special ways to honor the hardworking dads who make everything possible. Whether it's a sunrise fishing trip on Charlotte Harbor, a backyard cookout, or simply a day to relax, fathers across Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, and Englewood deserve to be celebrated. At Goldman, Tiseo & Sturges, P.A., we’re more than just attorneys, we’re neighbors, parents, and community members who understand what matters most. This Father’s Day, we want to share some practical safety reminders to help ensure your celebration stays joyful. Summer Safety Reminders Father's Day weekend marks the start of summer activities in Charlotte County. Be mindful of: Boating safety: Life jackets aren't just for kids, they're for dads too. Heat exhaustion: That deck project can wait. Florida heat is serious, especially for weekend warriors. DIY injuries: Ladder falls and power tool accidents spike during holidays when dads tackle home projects. Honoring Fathers Who’ve Faced Hardship Father’s Day isn’t just about celebration; it’s also a time to recognize the strength and resilience of fathers who have faced unexpected challenges. Whether it’s recovering from an injury, dealing with the aftermath of an accident, or navigating a personal injury claim, fathers often carry burdens quietly to protect their families. If you’re a father who has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you deserve support, compassion, and justice. You have rights, and we’re here to protect them. From all of us at Goldman, Tiseo & Sturges, P.A., Happy Father's Day to all the hardworking dads in Charlotte County. You make Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, Englewood, and North Port the community we're proud to serve. We're Here When You Need Us If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, our experienced legal team is here to help. We understand the unique challenges families face, and we’re committed to providing personalized, compassionate legal representation. Contact Goldman, Tiseo & Sturges, P.A. today for a free consultation: ( 941) 625-6666 Serving Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, Englewood, North Port, and all of Charlotte County
June marks the official start of summer in Charlotte County, and with it comes sunshine, beach days, and an influx of visitors to our beautiful Gulf Coast community. From Charlotte Harbor to Englewood Beach, our area becomes a hub of activity as both residents and tourists make the most of Florida's warm weather. But summer also brings increased risks. More people on the roads, more boats on the water, and more activity at local businesses means more opportunities for accidents and injuries. At Goldman, Tiseo & Sturges, P.A., we see a noticeable uptick in personal injury cases during the summer months, and we want our Charlotte County neighbors to stay safe. The Summer Traffic Challenge If you've lived in Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, or Englewood for any length of time, you know that summer traffic is a different beast. Tamiami Trail becomes packed with out-of-state visitors unfamiliar with our roads, and Kings Highway sees increased congestion as families head to beaches and attractions. What we see more of in summer: Rear-end collisions at busy intersections Accidents involving distracted drivers (tourists using GPS, looking for addresses) Pedestrian accidents in shopping areas and beach crossings Bicycle accidents as more riders take to the roads When you're out this summer, give yourself extra time, stay alert, and remember that many drivers around you may not know where they're going. Defensive driving isn't just a suggestion, it's essential. Water Activities and Boating Accidents Charlotte Harbor, the Peace River, and the Gulf of Mexico are what make our area special. But with beautiful waters comes responsibility and risk. Every summer, we handle cases involving: Boating collisions and operator negligence Jet ski accidents Dock and marina slip-and-fall injuries Swimming and diving accidents Inadequate safety equipment leading to drownings If you're heading out on the water: Ensure everyone has properly fitted life jackets Designate a sober boat operator Know the navigation rules and respect no-wake zones Check weather conditions before departing Never mix alcohol and boating—Florida law treats BUI (Boating Under the Influence) seriously Premises Liability: When Businesses Don't Keep You Safe Summer means crowded restaurants, busy shopping centers, and packed entertainment venues. Property owners have a legal duty to maintain safe conditions for visitors, but corners get cut when businesses are overwhelmed with summer crowds. Common summer premises liability issues: Wet floors in restaurants and stores (melting ice, spilled drinks, tracked-in water) Inadequate lighting in parking lots during evening hours Poorly maintained swimming pools at hotels and rental properties Overcrowded venues creating safety hazards Broken or uneven pavement in high-traffic areas If you're injured on someone else's property due to negligence, don't just chalk it up to bad luck. You may have a valid premises liability claim. Hurricane Season Starts June 1st We can't talk about June in Charlotte County without mentioning hurricane season. While we hope for a quiet season, preparation is crucial and so is knowing your rights if storm-related negligence leads to injury. Storm-related injuries we handle: Injuries from improperly secured construction materials or debris Falls due to inadequate lighting during power outages at businesses Vehicle accidents caused by poor storm preparation (unsecured objects becoming projectiles) Contractor negligence during hurricane repairs Property owners and contractors have responsibilities during hurricane season. If their failure to properly secure property or follow safety protocols results in your injury, you have legal recourse. What to Do If You're Injured This Summer Accidents happen quickly, but how you respond can affect your ability to recover compensation: Seek medical attention immediately – Even if you feel "fine," some injuries don't show symptoms right away. Document everything – Take photos, get witness information, keep all medical records. Report the incident – Whether it's a car accident, boating collision, or slip-and-fall, file an official report. Don't give statements to insurance companies – They're looking for reasons to deny or minimize your claim. Contact an attorney – The sooner you have legal representation, the better protected your rights are. Enjoy Summer Safely We want everyone in Charlotte County to enjoy our beautiful summer season. Whether you're a longtime resident or visiting from out of state, taking simple safety precautions can prevent accidents and injuries. From all of us at Goldman, Tiseo & Sturges, P.A., have a safe and wonderful summer in Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, Englewood, and throughout Charlotte County. We're Here When You Need Us If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident this summer, our experienced legal team is ready to help. We handle all types of personal injury cases and fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Contact Goldman, Tiseo & Sturges, P.A. today for a free consultation: (941) 625-6666 Serving Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, Englewood, North Port, and all of Charlotte County
As temperatures rise across Charlotte County and summer approaches, backyard pools become the centerpiece of family gatherings and weekend relaxation. From Port Charlotte neighborhoods to waterfront properties in Punta Gorda, swimming pools offer a welcome escape from Florida's heat. However, with this seasonal shift comes an important responsibility: ensuring pool safety for everyone who takes a dip. At Goldman, Tiseo & Sturges, P.A., we've seen firsthand how quickly a fun afternoon can turn tragic when proper safety measures aren't in place. Whether you're a pool owner hosting friends and family or a guest enjoying someone else's hospitality, understanding pool safety and liability can prevent accidents and protect lives. The Reality of Pool Accidents in Florida Florida leads the nation in drowning incidents, with swimming pools being a primary location for these tragedies. According to the Florida Department of Health, drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1-4 in our state. Even non-fatal pool accidents can result in serious injuries, including near-drowning incidents that lead to brain damage, spinal cord injuries, or broken bones. The risks extend beyond swimming itself. Slippery pool decks, diving board accidents, improper chemical storage, and inadequate fencing all contribute to preventable injuries each year. Essential Pool Safety Tips for Charlotte County Families For Pool Owners: Install proper fencing: Florida law requires pool barriers at least 4 feet high with self-closing, self-latching gates. This is your first line of defense against unauthorized access. Maintain visibility: Keep the pool area well-lit, especially if you host evening gatherings. Secure pool chemicals: Store cleaning supplies and chemicals in locked cabinets away from children. Inspect equipment regularly: Broken drain covers, loose handrails, and faulty ladders create serious hazards. Post pool rules: Clear signage about diving restrictions, shallow areas, and pool capacity helps guests make safe choices. Provide flotation devices: Keep Coast Guard-approved life jackets accessible, especially when children are present. For Parents and Guests: Never leave children unattended: Drowning can happen in seconds, even in shallow water. Designate a "water watcher" during gatherings. Learn CPR: Knowing how to respond in an emergency can save lives. Avoid alcohol while supervising: Impairment reduces reaction time and awareness. Respect pool rules: If the host has established safety guidelines, follow them. Check water depth before diving: Many pool injuries result from diving in shallow areas. Understanding Pool-Related Premises Liability When an accident occurs at someone else's pool, determining liability can be complex. Florida law holds property owners responsible for maintaining reasonably safe premises for their guests. This legal concept, known as premises liability, applies to swimming pools and surrounding areas. Property owners may be liable when: Required safety features (like proper fencing) are missing or non-functional The pool deck is slippery due to poor maintenance or lack of proper drainage Lighting is inadequate, making hazards difficult to see Broken equipment (ladders, diving boards, filters) causes injury Chemicals are improperly stored and accessible to children Warning signs about depth, diving restrictions, or other dangers are absent However, liability isn't automatic. Several factors influence whether a property owner can be held responsible: The victim's legal status matters: Invitees (social guests, party attendees) are owed the highest duty of care Licensees (service workers, delivery personnel) are owed a duty to warn of known hazards Trespassers generally are owed minimal duty, with exceptions for children under the "attractive nuisance" doctrine The attractive nuisance doctrine is particularly important for pool owners. Because pools are inherently attractive to children, property owners must take reasonable steps to prevent child access—even if those children are trespassing. This is why proper fencing isn't just a good idea; it's a legal requirement. When Accidents Happen: Your Legal Rights If you or a loved one is injured in a pool accident in Charlotte County, taking the right steps can protect both your health and your legal rights: Seek immediate medical attention: Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a medical professional. Some pool-related injuries have delayed symptoms. Document the scene: If possible, take photographs of the pool area, including any hazardous conditions, missing safety features, or broken equipment. Report the incident: Inform the property owner and ensure the accident is documented. If the injury is severe, contact local law enforcement. Preserve evidence: Keep any clothing, shoes, or items involved in the accident. Gather witness information: Get contact details from anyone who saw what happened. Avoid giving recorded statements: Insurance companies may use your words against you. Speak with an attorney before providing detailed statements. Contact an experienced personal injury attorney: Pool accident cases involve unique aspects of premises liability law. Legal guidance early in the process can make a significant difference in the outcome. Summer is Here, Stay Safe and Informed Pool season in Charlotte County should be about making memories, not dealing with preventable tragedies. Whether you're hosting Memorial Day gatherings, Fourth of July parties, or simple weekend cookouts, prioritizing pool safety protects everyone. At Goldman, Tiseo & Sturges, P.A., we're committed to keeping our Charlotte County community informed and safe. But when accidents do happen, we're here to help you navigate the legal complexities and secure the compensation you deserve. Contact Us for a Free Consultation If you or a loved one has been injured in a pool-related accident, our experienced legal team is here to answer your questions and protect your rights. Goldman, Tiseo & Sturges, P.A. 📞 (941) 625-6666 📍 Serving Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, Englewood, North Port, and all of Charlotte County
Mother's Day is a cherished occasion throughout Charlotte County, a time when families gather to honor the incredible women who have shaped our lives. From brunch reservations at local Port Charlotte restaurants to scenic drives along the harbor, this Sunday brings an outpouring of love and gratitude. Yet amid the celebrations, it's important to remember that keeping our mothers and all families safe is the greatest gift we can give. At Goldman, Tiseo & Sturges, P.A., we're more than just attorneys; we're neighbors, parents, and community members who understand what matters most. This Mother's Day, we want to share some practical safety reminders to help ensure your celebration stays joyful. The Roads Get Busier on Mother's Day Mother's Day consistently ranks as one of the busiest days for restaurants and retail establishments, which means Charlotte County's roads see increased traffic. With families traveling to brunches, parks, and gatherings, the potential for accidents rises. Stay safe on the road: Plan ahead: Allow extra time for traffic, especially around popular dining areas on Tamiami Trail and Kings Highway. Avoid distractions: Keep phones down and focus on the road—your family needs you alert and present. Watch for pedestrians: Many families walk to restaurants and parks; be especially cautious in parking lots and crosswalks. Never drive impaired: If your celebration includes champagne toasts, designate a sober driver or use a rideshare service. Restaurant and Venue Safety Crowded restaurants and event venues can present their own hazards. From slippery floors to overcrowded walkways, premises liability concerns are real. What to watch for: Wet floors near entrances and restrooms Uneven surfaces in parking lots Proper lighting in outdoor dining areas Safe walkways free from obstacles If you or your mother is injured due to unsafe conditions at a business, know that property owners have a legal duty to maintain safe premises for guests. Honoring Mothers Who've Faced Hardship Mother's Day isn't just about celebration; it's also a time to recognize the strength and resilience of mothers who have faced unexpected challenges. Whether it's recovering from an injury, dealing with the aftermath of an accident, or navigating the complexities of a personal injury claim, mothers often carry burdens that others don't see. If you're a mother who has been injured due to someone else's negligence, you deserve support, compassion, and justice. Don't let the stress of medical bills, insurance claims, or legal processes overshadow your recovery. You have rights, and we're here to protect them. A Message to Our Community This Mother's Day, take a moment to appreciate not only your own mother but all the mothers in Charlotte County who strengthen our community every single day. Whether they're teachers, nurses, business owners, or volunteers, mothers are the backbone of what makes Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, and Englewood such special places to call home. From all of us at Goldman, Tiseo & Sturges, P.A., we wish every mother a safe, happy, and memorable Mother's Day. We're Here When You Need Us If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident on Mother's Day or any day, our experienced legal team is here to help. We understand the unique challenges families face, and we're committed to providing personalized, compassionate legal representation. Contact Goldman, Tiseo & Sturges, P.A. today for a free consultation: 📞 (941) 625-6666 📍 Serving Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, Englewood, North Port, and all of Charlotte County