COVID-19: Tampa Attorneys Lead Business Amid Coronavirus

COVID-19 Law

“Lieser Skaff has the agility and ability to handle all challenges posed by COVID-19.”

COVID-19 Law

It is impossible to predict how long the Coronavirus pandemic will last and what long-term impacts it will have on our society. However, the more we know, the better we can plan for the future. Lieser Skaff is committed to keeping our community informed about specific areas of concern created by this situation and provide legal insights as to their impact on families and businesses. We stand with our community and country during this unprecedented time and will continue to serve it by providing the information you need as we move forward together.

Read Our Blog Posts About COVID-19

New Florida Rules of Civil Procedure Require a More Aggressive Strategy from the Start

Florida's recent amendments to the Rules of Civil Procedure have transformed civil litigation, requiring earlier disclosures, mandatory case management orders, and tighter trial deadlines. Passive strategy is no longer an option. Lieser Skaff's litigation attorneys understand these changes and know how to leverage them to achieve favorable outcomes for clients.

Jeffrey Lieser Promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in U.S. Army Reserve JAG Corps

Jeffrey Lieser, co-founder of Lieser Skaff, has reached a new career pinnacle with his promotion to Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve JAG Corps. The pinning of his silver oak leaves marks a significant milestone, celebrating years of elite leadership and superior military performance. This achievement highlights his rare ability to command respect both in the courtroom and in service to his country.

What Tampa Businesses and Professionals Should Know About Florida’s New Non-Compete Law

Florida’s CHOICE Act allows non-compete and garden leave agreements lasting up to four years for “covered” high-earning employees and shifting the burden to employees to prove that an agreement is not enforceable. Supporters argue that the Act protects trade secrets and attracts businesses, while critics warn it may harm worker mobility and increase unemployment.

Ghada Skaff and Jeff Lieser Recognized Once Again as Notable Managing Partners by Florida Trend’s Legal Elite

Attorneys Ghada Skaff and Jeffrey Lieser are honored to announce that they have been named to Florida Trend’s 2025 Legal Elite-Notable Managing Partners list for the second consecutive year in recognition of their leadership, mentorship, and service to their firm and to the broader legal community.

Florida Eliminates the Commercial Lease Sales Tax

Effective October 1, 2025, Florida will eliminate sales tax on commercial leases, reducing costs and increasing competitiveness for landlords. Landlords and tenants should review existing lease terms, communicate about the changes, and consult with an attorney to ensure that they are prepared for the impact of the upcoming changes.

No Way, Pro Se – Don’t Go It Alone

If you are thinking of representing yourself in court, remember that Florida courts can hold self-represented parties to attorney-level standards. Pro se (self-represented) litigation can result in emotional decisions, costly mistakes and time-consuming missteps.

When a Lease Ends: Tenant at Will vs. Tenant at Sufferance

When a Florida lease ends and the tenant stays, they are either a tenant at sufferance or at will. Knowing which one a tenant is considered under the law is crucial to knowing what your obligations are for evicting the tenant because a tenant at sufferance requires no notice while a tenant at will requires you to follow very specific notice and procedural requirements.

Essential Considerations for Landlords Before Signing a Commercial Lease

Before signing a commercial lease in Tampa, a landlord should conduct due diligence on tenants, decide on the lease structure, and clearly define terms relating to rent, maintenance, permitted use, and default provisions. Taking these steps reduces risks, enhances profitability, and ensures compliance with applicable laws, including the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

Ghada Skaff and Stephanie Martin Named Notable Women Leaders of Law by Florida Trend’s “Legal Elite”

Lieser Skaff Managing Partner and co-founder Ghada Skaff along with Partner Stephanie M. Martin have been recognized as Florida Trend "Legal Elite" NOTABLE – Women Leaders in Law. Florida Trend awards this prestigious designation each year to a select group of female attorneys across the State of Florida. The inclusion of attorneys Skaff and Martin…

Understanding Lis Pendens in Florida Real Estate

A lis pendens is a public notice indicating that there is pending litigation involving a property. While a lis pendens does not prevent the sale of the property, it is intended to warn potential buyers and can cloud the title to the property. In Florida, a lis pendens expires after one year unless extended by the court if it is unrelated to recorded instruments such as mortgages or construction liens.

Ghada Skaff and Jeff Lieser Named Notable Managing Partners by Florida Trend’s Legal Elite

The team at Lieser Skaff is honored to announce that managing partners Jeffrey Lieser and Ghada Skaff have both been recognized among the “Legal Elite, Notable Managing Partners” for 2024 by Florida Trend magazine. Well known for publishing distinguished lists of notable leaders in the legal profession each year, such as “Notable Women Leaders in…

Carla Markowitz Joins Lieser Skaff, Bringing Expertise in Commercial Landlord Work

Lieser Skaff, a prominent law firm in the greater Tampa Bay area, proudly announces the addition of seasoned attorney Carla Markowitz to its team. With an impressive background in commercial leases, including landlord eviction work, Markowitz is set to enhance the firm's capabilities in real estate law. “We are excited to have Carla Markowitz join…

Commercial Equipment Acquisitions: Leasing vs. Buying for Your Business

Understanding the difference between leasing and purchasing commercial equipment is crucial for business owners. Equipment sale agreements outline the rights and obligations of both parties when equipment is sold, while commercial equipment lease agreements, including capital and operating leases, allow lessees to lease equipment for a specific period.

Business Alert: The Corporate Transparency Act and Beneficial Ownership Reporting

Starting January 1, 2024, the majority of legal entities functioning in the United States need to assess whether they should submit reports on beneficial ownership information to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, in accordance with the Corporate Transparency Act ("CTA"). The CTA represents a significant development in the realm of corporate compliance and transparency. Its…

Attorney Ghada Skaff Recognized Among Notable Women Leaders in Law by Florida Trend

Lieser Skaff is pleased to announce that Ghada Skaff, the co-founder and co-managing partner of the firm, has been honored as one of the Legal Elite, Notable Women Leaders in Law for 2023 by Florida Trend magazine. This prestigious award is presented to a distinguished group of female attorneys in Florida each year. Ghada's inclusion…

A Property Damage Attorney Can Help Ensure a Proper Insurance Settlement for Home Damage

Hurricane Ian is projected to be one of the costliest storms in U.S. history. It prompted mass evacuations, school shutdowns, and thousands of flight cancellations across the Florida. It is likely to end up as the worst hurricane to directly impact the west coast of Florida in over a century. The dangerous storm posed a…

LS Attorneys Named as Recipients of 2022 Legal Elite and Super Lawyers Designation

Lieser Skaff is honored to announce that several of our attorneys have once again earned the designation of Super Lawyer and Legal Elite by their peers and legal experts for 2022. Super Lawyers Each year, Super Lawyers magazine uses independent research, peer nominations, and peer evaluations to rate attorneys across the nation in over 70…

Early Law Intervention Equivalent to Insurance for your Business

Failing to seek legal advice early is a costly mistake for entrepreneurs, warns attorney Jeffrey Lieser. Early legal intervention acts as insurance, preventing disputes and mitigating damages. Consulting a business attorney before embarking on contracts, partnerships, or ventures can help prevent disputes, reduce financial risks, and protect your business from potential failure.

Internal Limited Liability Company (LLC) Disputes: Direct or Derivative Claim?

LLC members in Florida can file direct claims for personal rights violations or derivative claims for company-related harm. Derivative claims require that you make a formal demand to other members or managers, allowing 90 days to act, unless doing so would be futile or cause irreparable harm, as outlined in Fla. Stat. § 605.0802.

LS Attorney Jeff Lieser Serving on Florida Bar Grievance Committee

Jeffrey P. Lieser, Esq., a founding partner at Lieser Skaff, has been appointed to a three-year term on the Florida Bar’s District 13C Grievance Committee where he will help investigate attorney misconduct and determine probable cause for disciplinary action.

Executive order calls for more aggressive anti-trust enforcement and limited use of non-compete agreements

Executive Order 14036, issued in 2021, focuses on the enforcement of existing antitrust laws and promoting competition, including encouraging the FTC to limit or ban restrictive labor agreements such as non-compete agreements. Although federal enforcement remains limited, states such as Nevada and Illinois have enacted restrictions; however, Florida has yet to take significant steps to limit non-competes, instead continuing to favor employer-friendly enforcement under §542.335.

Landlords and tenants should work together to reduce evictions in Tampa after moratorium lift

COVID-19 has significantly impacted both renters and landlords, with federal and local aid programs offering rental assistance. In Pinellas County, $45 million has been allocated, but with landlords still covering expenses and eviction moratoriums ending, evictions and homelessness may increase. Experts urge cooperation between landlords and tenants to access available funds efficiently.

LS Attorneys Prove Super Lawyers and Legal Elite Again in 2021

We are delighted to announce that once again, our namesakes have been recognized as Super Lawyers and/or Legal Elite by a panel of peers and experts. Super Lawyers The Super Lawyer designation is awarded to a select few attorneys who excel in their chosen fields. Fewer than 3% of attorneys are recognized each year. This…

Business COVID-19 Waivers for Employees and Customers

The COVID-19 pandemic has taken all of us into uncharted waters. After an unprecedented near nationwide shutdown, many states are going through the process of reopening. For business owners, the ability to re-open is often crucial to the very survival of the business. At the same time, a business may have valid concerns about the…

Florida Makes Lease Closings Easier with New Signature Witness Laws

Florida House Bill 469, effective July 1, 2020, simplifies lease execution by removing the witness requirement for residential and commercial leases over one year. In combination with electronic signatures, the change allows for quicker and more efficient lease execution, allowing for earlier start dates for landlords and tenants.

Jeff Lieser Joins AM Tampa Bay to talk about Payroll Protection Program

On April 3, 2020, the Paycheck Protection Program was established with the intent to support small U.S. businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Program funding was depleted within a few days, in part, because some of the loans were distributed to companies that were not the intended recipients. The Paycheck Protection Program received an additional $484…

LS attorneys recognized by Super Lawyers and Florida’s Legal Elite for 2020

We are proud to announce that Jeff Lieser and Ghada Skaff were recognized as 2020 Florida Legal Elite and Joseph Alexander was named Super Lawyer for 2020. In addition, Associate Alissa Kranz was named both a Super Lawyers Rising Star and Florida Legal Elite Up & Comer for 2020. Florida Legal Elite is an honor…

Employer responsibilities under the Florida Domestic Violence Leave Law

In what the United Nations has described as a “shadow pandemic,” the reported cases of domestic abuse have risen by at least 20% since COVID-19 started and is likely much higher because of unreported cases. As employers welcome staff back to the workplace, they should be aware of potential domestic violence issues and the Florida…

Employee mental health concerns for businesses reopening from COVID-19

As we all cope with the COVID-19 pandemic, feelings of anxiety, sadness, and fear are commonplace. Pandemic-related factors that may add to a workers' stress, are sundry, but may include fears regarding health or job security. A proactive response to employee mental health needs is not only prudent for continued business operations, but may also…

Hillsborough County courthouse now open with changes due to COVID-19

The Hillsborough County Courthouse has implemented changes to how it handles hearings as it opens from the COVID-19 shutdown. Your case may be rescheduled or heard remotely via Zoom or a similar video chat system. To find out whether your hearing will be continued or heard via video chat, visit the Thirteenth Judicial Court’s website.…

Legal Considerations for Businesses Reopening During COVID-19

LS Attorney Jeff Lieser Interviewed - Read Article "People are assuming risk by going out....but it doesn't mean businesses can ignore the process of providing a safe space" As the country begins the process of opening back up after weeks of mandatory business closures and stay at home orders, legal issues relating to Covid-19 are…

Freedom of Information Act Requests Can Expose a Business’s COVID-19 PPP Loan Activity

You've probably heard about the fallout from Ruth's Chris Steakhouse and Shake Shack after they accepted funding from the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which is a government program that was intended to help small businesses pay their employees during the pandemic. Since these publicly traded companies received tens of millions of dollars, the public and…

What if Employees Are Scared to Return to Work During COVID Reopening?

In the Tamps Bay Business Journal, Lieser Skaff attorneys discuss potential labor disputes if employees refuse to return to work due to COVID-19 fears or satisfaction with unemployment benefits, urging employers to take steps to protect the business and their employees.

Governor DeSantis’s Executive Order on Phase 1 to Reopen Florida

On April 29th, Governor DeSantis signed Executive Order 20-112, which puts “Phase 1” of his “Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step. Plan for Florida’s Recovery” into effect on May 4th. “Phase 1” reopens certain businesses that were previously deemed nonessential in all counties except Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach. Some highlights of the Executive Order include: The continuation…

Virtual Mediation During COVID-19

During the COVID-19 pandemic, businesses were forced to find alternative ways to settle disputes. Digital mediation, which allows parties to settle conflicts without in-person contact and sign agreements electronically, provides businesses with a practical, socially distant way to reach resolution during the pandemic. The commercial lease attorneys at Lieser Skaff offer legal guidance to help ensure legally compliant commercial lease through careful tenant selection, rent structuring, lease terms, maintenance responsibilities, and default provisions, all aimed at helping you minimize risk and maximize profits.

Florida and Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers

As we move through and beyond the COVID-19 pandemic, all of us have been challenged to absorb a range of new terminology and guidelines to help us better maneuver through the crisis. This has been the case in both our personal and professional lives. One of the first waves of information all of us have…

EEOC Clarifications and Guidance Regarding COVID-19 Medical Information and ADA Accommodation Requests

There have been numerous questions posed by employers in regard to confidentiality of medical information pertaining to the COVID-19 pandemic. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has attempted to address some of the most common questions which employers feel need addressing. Here are some guidelines: What medical information may be retained in an employee’s…

NEW CDC GUIDANCE ON RETURN-TO-WORK STANDARDS FOLLOWING CORONAVIRUS EXPOSURE

Employers are rightfully concerned about having workers return to their place of business after they have been diagnosed with or exposed to COVID19. Fortunately, the CDC has provided guidance for employers who have workers classified as "critical infrastructure workers". Employers who fall into this category include, but are not limited to employers in sectors such…

COVID-19 and Contractual Commitments

The COVID-19 pandemic has devastated businesses across the country and many owners have been left to wonder if they are legally bound by contracts they signed prior to the outbreak. Unfortunately, there is not simple yes or no answer, but there are circumstances where the contract can be breached without penalties. Every contract is unique…

Recent Amendment to Chapter 558: Presuit Notice for Construction Defects no longer the Statute of Repose

Florida Statutes Chapter 558 requires property owners to send a pre-suit notice for construction defects before suing. The ruling in Gindel v. Centex Homes provided a way to extend the statute of repose; however, a 2019 amendment to the statute effectively overruled Homes, clarifying that notices do not toll the 10-year limit.

I.R.C. § 1031 TAX DEFERRED REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

A Section 1031 tax-deferred exchange allows commercial property sellers to defer capital gains taxes by reinvesting proceeds in replacement property. Upon the owner’s death, heirs may avoid capital gains taxes entirely using a stepped-up basis.

Fair Housing: Are You Up to Date on Criminal Background Checks?

Since 2016, landlords must follow HUD's Criminal Background Guidance when evaluating criminal background checks on applicants. The guidelines require an individualized assessment of applicants with criminal histories, considering factors like severity, time elapsed, and rehabilitation. Arrests without convictions cannot be used, and discrimination is prohibited. Failing to comply can trigger violations, lengthy investigations, and severe penalties.

What Businesses Need to Know About Employee Leave and the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA)

In an effort to help families and individuals struggling with the impact of COVID-19, Congress passed the Families First Coronavirus Response Act ("FFCRA"), which went into effect on April 1, 2020, and will remain in effect until December 31, 2020. The FFCRA allows for paid sick leave through the Emergency Paid Sick Leave Act ("EPSLA")…

A Quick(ish) Breakdown of Florida’s Stay-At-Home Order For Businesses:

On April 1, 2020, Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order Number 20-91, which is a statewide stay-at-home order for Florida that took effect at midnight on April 3, 2020. This Order requires persons in Florida to stay at home, unless providing or obtaining “essential services” or conducting “essential activities.” The Executive Order also allows only “essential”…

COVID-19’s Impact on Evictions and Foreclosures

In response to COVID-19, President Trump ordered a minimum 60-day moratorium on FHA mortgage foreclosures while local Florida measures, like Hillsborough County's Administrative Order, also halted evictions. With court delays and Sheriff Departments ceasing Writs of Possession, landlords (particularly commercial) are advised to file promptly to secure priority once courts resume normal operations.

Notarized from the Comfort of Your Home: COVID-19 Does Not Stop Florida’s Online Notaries Public

With bank lobbies closed and large numbers of people working from home to slow the spread of COVID-19, many are without reliable notaries public or do not want to risk potential exposure to the virus through physical interactions. This has many scrambling to comply with critical deadlines or otherwise take care of business. However, fortunately,…

Businesses Beware: A Stack of Mail Can Be a Stack of Liability

Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, USPS, FedEx, and UPS continue deliveries with minor interruptions. To protect their legal interests and avoid costly consequences, businesses must stay vigilant with mail handling to avoid missing critical legal deadlines that could lead to waived rights, sanctions, or liabilities given that most courts remain operational.

What Landlords and Property Managers Should Be Doing During COVID-19

As the nation responds to the Coronavirus outbreak, we are all hopeful for the best outcome. During these trying times, however, consider the following: Communicate: In times of trouble, one of the most important factors is a constant and open line of communication. This is also true for landlords and property management teams. While practicing…

Jeffrey Lieser Cited in Business Observer as he Works to Protect Client’s Intellectual Property on the Web

Jeff Lieser of Lieser Skaff represents a client in a multi-million-dollar lawsuit against a New York City-based company for unauthorized use of content. Jeff Lieser of Lieser Skaff advises businesses to protect their intellectual property by monitoring for plagiarism, enforcing strong website terms, securing digital content from former employees, and using enforceable non-compete agreements.

LS Attorneys Recognized in 2019 by Florida’s Legal Elite and Super Lawyers

The ten attorneys at Lieser Skaff are all dedicated to providing the highest legal representation to our clients while adhering to The Florida Bar’s ethical standards. This year, each of our partners and two of our associates were recognized by Florida’s Legal Elite and/or SuperLawyers® Magazine for their exemplary service. Partner Ghada Skaff was selected…

Civil Theft Lawsuits May Be Used to Recover Personal and Business Property

Florida’s civil theft Statute (F.S. 772.11) allows individuals and businesses to recover tangible, intangible, and real property that was wrongfully taken. A Plaintiff must serve a 30-day cure notice, file the lawsuit within five years, and prove theft with clear and convincing evidence. While punitive damages are not allowed, a successful Plaintiff may recover treble damages.

Starting a New Business? Plan for Success by Hiring an Attorney

Entrepreneurs often use DIY legal forms, risking costly mistakes. Working with an experienced Tampa business attorney ensures proper legal structure, regulatory compliance, effective contracts, and protection for intellectual property and trade secrets. An attorney can also assist with negotiations, annual filings, mergers and acquisitions to safeguard your business from costly mistakes.

Business Owners Need to Ensure their Websites, Not Just their Buildings, Comply with the ADA

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities, ensuring their full participation in society. Title III of the ADA requires businesses to make reasonable modifications for accessibility, including websites connected to physical stores pursuant to recent court decisions.

LS Writes Article for Florida Bar About Florida’s Litigation Privilege

The litigation privilege protects participants in judicial proceedings from liability for acts or statements made during and necessarily preliminary to litigation, prioritizing free disclosure and adversarial advocacy over reputational harm. The general rule holds that pre-suit notices, as required by Florida law, are considered "necessarily preliminary" and are absolutely privileged; however, it is more complicated than that.

LS Attorneys among Florida’s Legal Elite and SuperLawyers of 2018

The attorneys of Lieser Skaff are honored to again be recognized by their peers for their exceptional legal expertise and high ethical standards in service to their clients. Jeff Lieser was selected as a Legal Elite by Florida Trend, Florida's premier business publication. This peer-review recognition is for attorneys who "exemplify a standard of excellence…

What Tenants Should Know Before Signing a Commercial Lease

Before entering into a commercial lease enlist an attorney to carefully review and negotiate key clauses relating to exclusivity, radius, CAM fees, SNDA agreements, and regulatory compliance. Ensuring fair terms, limiting competition, and addressing shared costs protects your business in the long run.

Lieser Skaff Partners Recognized as Super Lawyers and Florida’s Legal Elite

The partners of Lieser Skaff have once again received recognition from Super Lawyers® for their outstanding legal expertise and high ethical standards. Both Jeff Lieser and Ghada Skaff were selected as Rising Stars, an honor based upon peer review reserved for the top 2.5% of attorneys under age 40. Jeff has earned this distinction of…

Tampa Bay Homeowners Have Limited Recourse When HOA Fails to Act

Homeowners frustrated by an HOA-owned abandoned property have limited options. They can informally raise the issue at an HOA meeting or contact the mortgage holder to request property maintenance. Formal options include recalling the board, suing the HOA for breach of fiduciary duty, and suing the homeowner; however, residents may incur legal costs.

Jeff Lieser Consults with Channel 8 on Tampa’s Tempo High-Rise Construction Defects

The Tampa Housing Authority’s Tempo high-rise faces costly construction defects, including upside-down windows and water leaks that could lead to mold. Lieser Skaff attorney Jeff Lieser warns that despite THA assurances, taxpayers may bear the costly financial burden of litigating and fixing the issues.

Tampa Construction Defect Lawyers Protecting Florida Homeowners’ Rights Under KB HOME Settlement

The Florida Attorney General’s Office settled with KB HOME after a three-year investigation related to failing to inform homeowners of building code violations and denying warranty coverage. The settlement requires KB HOME to repair homes and reimburse out-of-pocket expenses to affected homeowners.

All Lieser Skaff Partners Once Again Named to Super Lawyers List in 2016

Lieser Skaff is proud to announce that Super Lawyers has again recognized our partners as outstanding attorneys within our community. The recognition process begins with a peer nomination and lawyers are not allowed to nominate others within their firms. The nominees are then subjected to rigorous independent research across 12 key categories: Position in their…

New Florida Privacy Law Could Sting Drone Operators

In July of 2015, Florida banned the use of drones for surveillance on private property without the occupants’ written consent. The law also mandates drone operators to display a unique identification number on the craft. This makes it easier to identify and allows for a person to sue drone owners for invasion of privacy.

Hiring Unlicensed Contractors Could Lead to Trouble

Hiring an unlicensed contractor may seem cost-effective but poses legal, financial, and quality risks, exposing you to potential fines, liability for damages or injuries, and shoddy workmanship. Although Florida law limits the legal rights of an unlicensed contractor, it is also illegal to knowingly hire an unlicensed contractor.

Lieser Skaff Representing Xarelto Product Liability Claims

Lieser Skaff attorneys are pursuing product liability claims for Xarelto users who suffered uncontrollable bleeding or adverse effects, alleging inadequate warnings and no effective treatment for bleeding emergencies. Plaintiffs may seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

How Florida Landlords Should Handle a Deceased Tenant’s Personal Property

When a tenant dies, Florida law restricts landlords from granting access to the rental unit or removing personal property without a court-appointed personal representative or proper lease provisions. Landlords must wait 60 days and follow Chapter 715 procedures unless the lease includes specific language allowing for quicker disposal of belongings.

Law Firm Announces Purchase of Office Building

The law firm of Lieser Skaff has moved to a recently purchased, 2,300 square foot office building in North Hyde Park, Tampa.

Ghada Skaff named a Florida Super Lawyers “Rising Star”

Lieser Skaff is proud to announce that Ghada Skaff was named a 2015 Rising Star by Super Lawyers. This organization selects the best and brightest from across the country for their prestigious distinction. Jeff Lieser was recognized as a Rising Star in 2013 and 2014, and Joe Alexander in 2014. Jeff Lieser and Joe Alexander also…

Why Out-of-State Companies Keep Florida Law Firms on Retainer

Most business owners retain local legal counsel, but smart executives also retain counsel in states where they do significant business to ensure their legal interests are addressed efficiently. Retaining an attorney before there is a problem protects the business’s legal interests, develops strong relationships, and provides state-specific expertise.

Lieser Skaff is a Venue Sponsor for Gasparilla International Film Festival

The Tampa Film Institute, Inc., d/b/a, Gasparilla International Film Festival (“GIFF”) is a critical component of the arts community in the Tampa Bay Area, providing year-round community education, support, and inspiration, in the medium of film. The organization’s cornerstone event is the annual Gasparilla International Film Festival which will be held this year from March…

Tampa Construction Defect Claims: Real and Synthetic Stucco Cracks and Water Damage Caused by Improper Installation

Properly installed stucco or EIFS can last for the lifetime of the home; however, improperly installed stucco or EIFS (thin layers, improper weatherproofing, or insufficient caulking) can lead to water damage, rot, and mold. Florida homeowners must sue within four years of discovering damage, but no later than ten years post-construction, to enforce the warranty.

Analyzing the Recent Verizon-Netflix Business Dispute Under Florida’s Unfair Business Practices Law

Verizon accused Netflix of unfair trade practices under FDUTPA for displaying error messages blaming ISPs for slow streaming. Netflix argued the messages were accurate and informational. Moreover, consumer surveys showed most users already blamed ISPs for streaming issues, likely making Verizon’s deception claims difficult to prove.

Jeff Lieser Named Among Florida Super Lawyers “Rising Stars”

With only 2.5% of Florida attorneys nominated for Florida Super Lawyers "Rising Stars" 2014 list, Tampa lawyer, Jeff Lieser, of Lieser & Skaff is honored to receive this distinction for the second consecutive year.

Getting Rid of Squatters Living In Your Tampa Bay Home

An Army Soldier’s Pasco County home was occupied by squatters who claimed a verbal agreement allowed them to live in the home rent-free. Because the police deemed it a civil matter and there was no lease, only an unlawful detainer action (not eviction) could resolve the matter.

Protect Yourself with a Joint Venture Agreement

A written Joint Venture Agreement (JVA) is crucial to avoid disputes, even among close friends or relatives. Without one, legal battles over fiduciary breaches, fraud, or self-dealing can arise, as seen in the South Florida case of three friends who went into business together that ended in a $21.5 million judgment.

Five Reasons to Bring a Quiet Title Action

In a quiet title action, the Plaintiff asks the court to declare the sole legal title to a property. It is commonly used for tax deeds, adverse possession and prescriptive easements, as an alternative to probate, or alongside other real estate claims. Defendants can also counterclaim to establish their own title to the property.

Fighting a Non-Compete Employment Agreement in Florida

Although non-compete agreements are presumed to be valid in Florida, they can be challenged based on material breaches by the employer, overly broad restrictions, unreasonable durations, or geographic scope. Courts also evaluate whether the agreement protects legitimate business interests. Consult an experienced employment lawyer to assess enforceability of a non-compete agreement.

Abrogation of Florida’s Economic Loss Rule (ELR) and What It Means

The Economic Loss Rule (ELR) originally limited claims in contract disputes to breach of contract, barring tort claims like negligence or fraud for purely economic losses. Florida's Tiara ruling, however, restricted ELR to product liability cases, opening the door for tort claims in contract disputes which can expose parties to broader liability.

Protecting Lienors and Property Owners During Home Improvement

Construction lienors must serve a timely “Notice to Owner” to preserve lien rights while manufacturers of “specially fabricated materials” must follow similar, but different, rules. To protect against lien liability, property owners should record a Notice of Commencement as well as obtain lien releases and contractor affidavits before making payments.

Preventing Commercial Landlord Liability for Tenant Improvements

Commercial landlords can face construction lien liability for tenant improvements if tenants hire contractors and fail to pay them. To avoid this, landlords should include lien prohibition clauses in lease agreements, record the lease and a notice, promptly respond to lien-related demands, and require contractor indemnity agreements.

Domestic Drywall Problems Resemble Chinese Drywall

Domestic drywall in some U.S. homes may corrode metal, damage appliances, and cause health issues like headaches, respiratory problems, and seizures. Suspected causes include sulfide gas off-gassing, radioactive phosphogypsum, or the use of recycled Chinese drywall. Homeowners with potentially dangerous drywall should consult their insurance company, obtain an inspection, and consult an experienced construction defects attorney.

Landlord’s Rights and Duties

Commercial evictions in Florida, often involving nonpayment of rent, lease violations, or holdover tenants, require the landlord to provide written notice before initiating expedited legal proceedings. Tenants may assert defenses like constructive eviction but must specifically dispute issues and give the landlord the opportunity to make repairs to protect their rights.

The Problems Associated With Chinese Drywall

Between 2004 and 2008, defective Chinese drywall containing phosphogypsum was used in the construction of homes in the U.S. (predominantly in Southeastern states), causing sulfur odors, corroded materials, and health issues, particularly in Southeastern states. Chinese drywall lawsuits and class actions have resulted in remediation, removal, and repair of the drywall; however, proving health claims remains challenging.