It is the well-entrenched admiralty law of the United States that, as set forth by former Chief Justice Marshall of the United States Supreme Court, if property is exposed to peril or hazard at sea and is “saved by the voluntary exertion of any persons whatsoever,…a very ample award will
The office of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs announced on December 16, 2013, that they will be expanding benefits for veterans who have suffered from a traumatic brain injury (TBI). This new regulation went into effect last week (January 15, 2014). The regulation was expanded because of a report created by
Legal issues in the estate planning field are as diverse and complex as the clients whose lives are impacted by them. For this reason, I highly suggest to clients that they put forth a plan for the unforeseen circumstances that life can often throw our way when we’re not expecting
In the world of Social Security, your date last insured plays a major factor in whether you qualify for the benefits program. Date last insured (DLI) refers to the last date you are eligible to receive Social Security disability insurance (SSDI). In order to receive SSDI, you must pass the
A blog series from a maritime lawyer and boating enthusiast. The Navigator explores various topics in the boating world; including safety issues and an in-depth look into the cruise industry. In this inaugural issue, I share my experience aboard Costa Atlantica by Costa cruise lines and provide essential tips on cruise safety and cruise etiquette. The Ship My family and I took
Nearly 2 weeks ago it was reported that two divers were left behind by a charter dive boat off the coast of Key Biscayne, Florida. Fortunately, they were rescued three miles off shore by a passing yacht after several hours at sea. Neither diver knew each other and had gone
I often get calls from prospective clients wishing to collect money owed to them for services rendered in connection with the marine industry. Sadly, I have to advise some of these clients that because they did not get their agreement in writing, the cost of filing a suit or other
In a claim for Social Security disability benefits (SDD), medical evidence is the main player. There is a long list of what is considered medical evidence: physician examinations and treatment notes, mental health records, laboratory testing, imagining studies including MRIs, CT scans, X-rays, etc. The bottom line is simple; in
Blood transfusions are fairly common in the United States. Each year approximately 5 million Americans need a blood transfusion. Why Do Individuals Need Blood Transfusions? There are many reasons an individual may require a blood transfusion, including surgery, illness or serious injury. Some of the more severe reasons to have
Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits and Social Security disability (SSD) benefits often go hand in hand. A lot of veterans have a Veterans Disability claim and Social Security disability claim going on at the same time. Others may have received one of the benefits and are applying for the other. VA disability compensation
