“You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view.” (Atticus Finch in “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee, 1960). How poignant this quote from a fictional lawyer and father who teaches his children in part to see life from another person’s … [Read more...]
Mediation… That’s When You’re Getting Divorced, Right?
While visiting family and friends over the holiday weekend I shared time with lovely people I hadn’t seen in quite a while. As people often do when ‘it’s been a while’ they catch up with one another and ask, “How have you been, how is business going?” A family friend came over to me and asked … [Read more...]
A Brief History of the HOA…Ever Wonder Where It All Began?
Depending upon your age or chosen profession, or where you grew up, curiosity or love of American history, you may or may not know of Levittown, New York. In 1947 the construction firm Levitt & Sons began building the first development of tract housing. This development occurred in response … [Read more...]
5 FAQ’s re: Mediation vs. Litigation in Less Than 60 Seconds
Quicker Process: Mediation is a scheduled conference which may last a few hours or 1 to 2 days and is much quicker than going to trial; which can take weeks or months to prepare for, prior to your case being heard. More affordable: When you use a Mediator, you avoid the fees that accompany going … [Read more...]
You Can’t Make This Stuff Up!!!
Last month I had viewed online a compelling news report regarding the Mainlands 3 Retirement Community in Tamarac, Florida. The report discussed the homeowner’s dispute with their Association Board. In a nutshell, the Board declared what I would consider ‘mutiny’ and clear nepotism upon its … [Read more...]
A comedy of errors…dream come true or worst nightmare?
Earlier in October I posted on Facebook a link to a great story out of Flagler County, Florida “A comedy of errors...an attorney's dream, and the perfect opportunity to engage a Mediator. Unbelievable all this was built in 6 months and alas...on the WRONG lot!!!” The story, a debacle in a community … [Read more...]
2014 Florida Legislation Affecting Community Associations
Last week I attended a very informative legal update seminar at the Law Offices of Rosenbaum Mollengarden in West Palm Beach, FL. The topic was the legislation affecting community associations effective July 1, 2014 and case law update. Highlights included new requirements for community … [Read more...]