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SEPTEMBER 2026
Legally Brief W ith K evin P atrick Automobile accidents | Daycare injuries | Wrongful death
A Little Comfort Goes a Long Way Why We’re Proud to Support the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy
The moments that stay with us the most are not always the biggest ones. They are often the ones that happen when no one is watching, when there is no spotlight, no recognition, and no expectation of anything in return. For our team at Kevin Patrick Law, supporting the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy is one of those moments. This organization does work that is difficult, but incredibly important. The Georgia Center for Child Advocacy provides a safe place for children who have experienced sexual abuse or severe physical abuse, helping them and their families begin the path to healing. Through forensic interviews, trauma-focused therapy, and prevention education, the Center creates a compassionate support system for children during some of the hardest moments of their lives. Recently, our team had the opportunity to do something simple but meaningful: put together snack bags for children receiving therapy at the Center. On paper, it seems like a small gesture. A few snacks in a bag will not change what a child has been through. It will not erase the pain or challenges they are facing. But sometimes, small acts of kindness are exactly what remind someone they are cared for. After a difficult therapy session, a favorite snack can bring comfort, joy, and a small moment where a kid can just be a kid. And if we learned one thing while putting these bags together, it was that kids know what they like. I initially had the “responsible adult” mindset and wanted to fill the bags with the healthiest options possible. But after some thought, I realized there is something special about the classic indulgent childhood favorites. Sugary-sweet Capri Suns, cheese-dust-covered chips, double-stuffed Oreos, and Fruit by the Foot made the final cut, and honestly, those are the snacks that bring the biggest smiles. It has also made grocery shopping more entertaining. Walking through Costco with boxes of cookies, drinks, and snacks piled high can definitely earn some envious looks from kids, who may wonder how someone managed to convince their parents to buy that much junk food. What they do not know is that those snacks are headed somewhere much more meaningful.
In a world where acts of kindness can sometimes become tied to publicity or personal gain, there is something powerful about helping simply because it is the right thing to do. Giving back does not always require a huge commitment or a grand gesture. Sometimes, it looks like packing snack bags around a table with your coworkers. Sometimes, it looks like showing up for your community however you can. And while we do not do this expecting anything back, the truth is that we always receive something: perspective, gratitude, and a reminder of what truly matters. These children have already experienced things no child should have to endure. If we can make their day a little brighter, even in a small way, that is enough. We encourage everyone to learn more about the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy and the incredible work it does. Whether through volunteering, donating, or finding another way to support
children and families in need, every effort matters. Sometimes, the smallest kindness can make the biggest difference in someone’s day.
This publication is for informational purposes only, and no legal advice is intended.
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Don’t Wait Until After a Crash to Review Your Insurance Think You’re Fully Covered? Think Again. The last thing you want to discover after a crash is that your insurance coverage isn’t enough to protect you. That’s why National Preparedness Month is the perfect reminder to prepare for more than hurricanes and power outages. It’s also an opportunity to ask an important question: If you were involved in a serious wreck tomorrow, would your insurance cover you? GEORGIA’S MINIMUM COVERAGE MAY NOT BE ENOUGH. Georgia law requires drivers to carry what’s commonly known as 25/50/25 liability coverage: • $25,000 for bodily injury per person • $50,000 for bodily injury per accident if more than one person is injured • $25,000 for property damage per accident These minimums help pay for injuries or property damage you cause to someone else if you’re at fault in a crash. However, they don’t pay for your medical expenses, vehicle repairs, or other losses. Also, if the damages you cause surpass your policy limits, you could be responsible for paying the difference out of your own pocket. DON’T LET ‘FULL COVERAGE’ GIVE YOU A FALSE SENSE OF SECURITY. Many drivers assume “full coverage” means they’re protected from just about anything. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. While full coverage generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive insurance, it still has limitations. The best way to avoid unpleasant surprises is to understand exactly what your policy includes and what it doesn’t.
‘I’m Fine’ The Hidden Emotions Behind a Teen’s Most Common Response You ask your teen how school was … and they stare at their phone and say, “I’m fine.” The tone is flat, maybe a little rushed, like they’re trying to end the conversation before it starts. You nod and move on because it sounds harmless enough. Later, you wonder if they actually meant what they said. Most of the time, they didn’t. THE TRUE MEANING BEHIND ‘I’M FINE.’ Teenagers often say “I’m fine” when they’re not. The phrase is a shield, protecting privacy, avoiding awkward conversations, or keeping emotions from spilling out. Adults may hear reassurance, yet the words often hide stress, anxiety, sadness, or overwhelm. Many teens are still learning how to name feelings, especially when emotions shift quickly or feel too big to manage. Misreading those two words can lead to missed chances for support and connection. THE LANGUAGE BEHIND THE HABIT. “I’m fine” is frequently a shortcut. Teens might use it to end conversations they feel unprepared for or unsafe in. Emotional vocabulary is still developing during adolescence, so it’s easier to default to a neutral phrase than to explain complex feelings. Social pressure also plays a role, since appearing “okay” can feel safer than admitting struggle. The phrase can also signal exhaustion from repeated questions, as if their honesty is being ignored or misunderstood. WHAT ‘I’M FINE’ MIGHT ACTUALLY MEAN. Under the surface, “I’m fine” can mask anxiety about school, friendships, family tension, or identity questions. Teens may worry about being judged or becoming a burden if they share too much. Some avoid honesty to maintain independence, even when they need support. Emotional overload can also make it tough to unpack feelings in real time. Instead of describing what hurts, the brain often chooses the simplest exit, a quick reassurance that keeps attention away. LISTENING BEYOND THE SURFACE. Noticing changes in tone, body language, and behavior can reveal more than words alone. Short answers, withdrawal, or irritability often accompany hidden stress. Gentle, open-ended questions work better than direct pressure, giving teens space to talk when they’re ready. It’s important to remember that consistency matters more than intensity, since you build trust over time through small, steady check-ins rather than one large conversation. As we all know, those teenage years are wild, with emotions shifting quickly and pressures stacking up from school, friendships, and future plans. Adults who assume “I’m fine” means fine may miss early signs of distress that require attention. Small misunderstandings can grow into distance when teens feel unheard or dismissed. Remember, supportive listening helps teens feel safer being honest, even when they don’t have perfect words for what they feel.
ONE COVERAGE YOU SHOULD SERIOUSLY CONSIDER. One of the smartest protections you can add to your policy is uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage . Roughly 1
in 8 Georgia drivers is uninsured, and many others carry only the state’s minimum coverage. If you’re injured by someone who has little (or no) insurance, UM/UIM coverage can help pay for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and damage to your vehicle. Although this coverage isn’t required in Georgia, insurance companies are required to offer it. Choosing to keep it on your policy could make a tremendous difference after a serious crash. A FEW MINUTES TODAY COULD SAVE YOU THOUSANDS TOMORROW. This National Preparedness Month, take a few minutes to review your policy with your insurance agent. Ask questions. Make sure you understand your limits. Consider whether additional coverage makes sense for your family and your financial future.
You can always reach Kevin directly at 404.566.8964 or Kevin@PatrickTrialLaw.com. (If you ever need it, his cellphone is 404.409.3160.)
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Autumn Adventures Start Here! MAKE THE MOST OF FALL WITH THESE CAN’T-MISS GEORGIA FESTIVALS
DULUTH FALL FESTIVAL Sept. 26–27, 2026 DuluthFallFestival.org
Nothing says fall quite like pumpkin-filled weekends, festival food, live music, and making memories with the people you love. As the leaves change and cooler weather rolls in, Georgia comes alive with can’t-miss festivals that celebrate everything we love about the season. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a date, or a weekend adventure with friends, these festive favorites deserve a spot on your autumn bucket list! STONE MOUNTAIN PARK’S PUMPKIN FESTIVAL Sept. 19 – Nov. 1, 2026 (Friday–Sunday) StoneMountainPark.com/activity/events/ pumpkin-festival Step into a storybook at Stone Mountain Park’s beloved Pumpkin Festival! Wander through enchanting fairy tale scenes, snap festive family photos, meet favorite storybook characters, and cheer on the hilariously fun pie-eating contest. As the sun sets, the park transforms into a glowing autumn wonderland, making this one of Georgia’s most magical fall traditions.
enjoying live performances, sampling delicious eats, and letting the kids enjoy games and rides. Even better, proceeds help improve Candler Park and support the surrounding neighborhood, so every visit gives back to the community. GEORGIA MOUNTAIN FALL FESTIVAL Oct. 9–11 & Oct. 15–17, 2026 GeorgiaMountainFairgrounds.com/localevents/ fallfest Ready for a scenic fall escape? Head to the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds for two weekends packed with live music, artisan crafts, carnival rides, family attractions, and breathtaking mountain views. Whether you’re hunting for handmade treasures, enjoying classic festival food, or simply soaking up the crisp autumn air, this North
Small-town charm meets big-time fun at the Duluth Fall Festival. Enjoy live entertainment, browse hundreds of vendor booths, indulge in classic fair treats, and catch the lively community parade. Little ones will love Kid’s Korner, complete with bounce houses, slides, and inflatables. Best of all, admission is free, making it an easy family favorite.
CANDLER PARK FALL FESTIVAL Oct. 3–4, 2026 FallFest.CandlerPark.org
Art, music, food, and community come together at one of Atlanta’s most beloved fall events. Spend the day exploring local artists,
Georgia tradition is the perfect way to celebrate the season.
TAKE A BREAK
Dutch Apple Pudding Cake
Ingredients •
Nonstick cooking spray 1 20-oz can apple pie filling
• • • • • • •
1/4 tsp salt 1/2 cup milk
• •
1/2 cup dried cherries, dried cranberries, or raisins
2 tbsp butter, melted
1/2 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
• • •
1 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 1/4 cups apple juice
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1 tbsp butter
Directions 1.
Lightly coat 4-quart slow cooker with cooking spray.
2. In small saucepan, bring apple pie filling to boil; stir in cherries. 3. Transfer apple mixture to cooker. 4. In medium bowl, stir together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. 5. Add milk and melted butter; stir until combined. 6. Stir in 1/2 cup walnuts. Pour and evenly spread batter over apple mixture in cooker. 7. In the same small saucepan, combine apple juice, brown sugar, and the 1 tbsp butter; boil gently, uncovered, for 2 minutes. 8. Pour apple juice mixture over batter in slow cooker. 9. Cover and cook on high-heat setting for 2–2 1/2 hours. 10. Turn off cooker and cool, uncovered, for 30–45 minutes.
Solution
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Turn Routine Drives Into Easier Connections Your Best Conversations With Your Child Might Happen Behind the Wheel
ASK LESS, LISTEN MORE. Once you get them talking, resist the parental urge to turn every answer into advice. If you get them to open up and tell you something frustrating or embarrassing, just listen … even if it’s tough! Despite having meaningful advice up your sleeve, responding with an immediate solution or quick lecture can shut them down. Instead, acknowledge what they tell you with a simple answer that keeps the conversation open without making them feel judged. If your child doesn’t want to talk, don’t force the conversation. A quiet ride can still be useful because it keeps the door open without adding pressure. Over time, those tiny, low-pressure moments can make it easier for kids to speak up when they actually do have something to say. Not every drive needs to become meaningful, but a regular habit of leaving room for conversation can make the car feel like a more comfortable place to talk.
As kids get older, getting more than a one-word answer can feel like a parenting victory. You try to set aside time for a real conversation, but sitting down face-to-face can make the whole thing feel larger than it needs to. Often, some of the best conversations happen when nobody is trying to have one. That’s what makes car rides surprisingly useful for parents.
spending 10 of them without phones or music. It’s not supposed to be an interview, so keep the questions simple but open-ended. “How was your day?” will often get nothing more than a “fine” in response. A better question gives them somewhere to go, like, “What was the weirdest part of your day?” or “Did anything happen that annoyed you?”
USE THE SETUP TO YOUR ADVANTAGE. A drive to baseball practice, school, or an
appointment takes some of the pressure off. The conversation has a natural ending point, and nobody has to sit down with a specific goal in mind. Kids may also be more willing to open up when they can look out the window instead of feeling like they’re being studied. Of course, no one wants to turn every car ride into a serious conversation. The idea is to find time to check in and chat, and you don’t need to claim the whole ride. If the trip takes 30 minutes, try
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