Check out our July newsletter!
July 2023
720 Goodlette Rd. N, Suite 304, Naples, FL 34102 • www.AttorneyShapiro.com
IT’S NOT ABOUT THE MONEY
Summer Jobs Teach You Valuable Skills
Summer is in full swing, and as some of you take your families on vacations, participate in activities, and relax, many teenagers and college students will start their summer jobs. I had several summer jobs back in my youth. While the money was great, it wasn’t the only thing I gained from these experiences — it showed me what I wanted and didn’t want to do in a future career. In the ‘80s, my dad had his own business, and I worked in their main office during the summer. I would sort through receipts, submit the information in their database, then place the tickets in a binder in alphabetical order. I did this process all day — it was so monotonous! But I did learn something vital during my time there. I knew I wanted to be in a career where I could engage with others. I didn’t want to be stuck in a corner, unable to interact with anyone. I’m a very social person — I love being around people. If you come by the office, you’ll notice that my “office” is just a place for me to put my things. You will hardly find me in there because I’m always out talking with someone, whether it’s work-related or not. So while I hated filing receipts, if it weren’t for that experience, I wouldn’t have known that I needed to be in a career that allowed me to be sociable! In high school, I worked at a place that sold meats and had a deli. The meat was cooked on a rotator, and I cut the meat off so it could then be used to make sandwiches. I enjoyed the job because it allowed me to be sociable. I got to talk to all kinds of people! However, I got fired because I took a day off (well in advance) so I could tour colleges. My boss called me and asked if I could come in, but I told him no. Because of that, my boss decided to let me go. That day, I learned a valuable lesson: Never punish someone for bettering themselves. “Summer jobs are more than just a way to earn money. You learn so much about yourself, what you want to do with your life, and lessons that will stick with you.”
At the firm, I provide my team with opportunities for growth and ways to move upward into other positions. However, if they find another job that fits their needs and it’s a better opportunity for them, I will always encourage them! I have a private Facebook group with my current and past employees. I love to see what they’re doing now and stay in contact with them! In college, I took a paid internship at a personal injury firm in Cleveland, Ohio, called Nurenberg Paris. At first, I wasn’t even interested in personal injury! I initially went to law school to receive a business background. But during my time in Ohio, I got to work on the Sioux City air crash, and I learned so much about personal injury. I discovered that I loved being able to impact the lives of others and help them through some of the most challenging times of their lives. If it weren’t for this internship, I wouldn’t have become a personal injury lawyer. As you can see, summer jobs are more than just a way to earn money. You learn so much about yourself, what you want to do with your life, and lessons that will stick with you. Did you have any summer jobs growing up? What did you learn from them? I would love to hear from you! -Marc L. Shapiro
(239) 500-5000 • 1
A TEXT OR EMAIL CAN BE A CONTRACT! What Makes a Document Legally Binding?
example, in the 2013 case of Forcelli v. Gelco. Gelco Corporation’s insurance company offered Forcelli money to settle a case — this correspondence happened through email. Forcelli agreed to the settlement but tried to back out once the matter was resolved. The New York Appellate Division determined that emails were legally binding. In the 2017 case of St. John’s Holdings, LLC v. Two Electronics, LLC, St. John’s Holdings (seller) sent multiple text messages to Two Electronics, LLC (buyer) asking them to sign a letter to finalize their deal. After a few attempts, the buyer responded to the text and agreed to the terms and conditions. However, the seller later informed the buyer that they had accepted an offer from another party. When this issue went to court, the judge determined that since both parties agreed on the terms and conditions via text, it was a binding contract. So, what is needed to make a contract legally binding? You need four elements: 1) an offer, 2) an acceptance of the offer, 3) consideration, and 4) both parties agreeing to create a binding relationship. Because technology constantly evolves, we must understand how it can affect us from a legal standpoint. If you have any questions or concerns, allow us to assist you. Give our office a call anytime!
In the legal world, many firms rely on technology to communicate
with clients. Processes and daily tasks have become seamless with the help of laptops and phones. But as tech continues to evolve, we must change how we view specific processes and legal steps.
When most people hear about contracts, they think of formal agreements between two parties, usually involving lawyers. However, a contract can be a text, email, or napkin! Here’s what you need to know. What is a contract? A contract is a written or verbal agreement between two or more parties regarding exchanging items or services. Under the ESIGN Act, text messages and emails are considered legally binding. Furthermore, no signature is required for a contract to go into effect — all that is needed is for all parties to agree to the terms outlined in the document. What about court cases regarding contract disputes via text or email? Over the past few years, several legal disputes have happened regarding if a text or email is considered a legitimate contract. For
BE CAREFUL ON THE WATER! 4 Steps to Take After a Boating Accident Florida’s coasts have crystal-clear waters, beautiful marine life, and white, sandy beaches, so it’s no wonder that so many people want to spend their time on the water! However, as you enjoy the summer sun and quality time with your friends and family, you must be careful while boating. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, in 2022, there were 735 boating accidents, causing the deaths of 65 people. Some common causes of these accidents include boating while drunk, speeding, improper lookout, distracted “driving,” and having an inexperienced boat operator. Fortunately, you can recover compensation if you suffer injuries in a boating accident due to another party’s negligence — just take these four steps. Contact the authorities. After a boating accident, you should contact the police and the Coast Guard — they will conduct an investigation and prepare a report. They may speak to witnesses who saw the accident and examine any videos or photos. Their observations and report can support your injury claim. Collect any evidence. While the police and Coast Guard will conduct an investigation, it’s best to gather evidence as well. Take pictures of the boats after the accident, your injuries, and anything relevant to your case. You also want to collect contact information of witnesses, passengers, and the boating operator who caused the accident. There’s no such thing as too much evidence; anything and everything could help your case! Seek medical attention. A doctor can outline your injuries and treatment options available to you, which will help strengthen your case. Furthermore, if you delay or fail to seek medical attention, your conditions
could worsen, or the insurance company could argue that your injuries aren’t as severe as you claim. Finally, connect with an experienced boating accident attorney to assist you. At the Law Offices of Marc L. Shapiro, we can review all the information regarding your accident and build a defense to help you receive the compensation you deserve. If you or someone you know recently suffered injuries from a boating accident, don’t hesitate to call us.
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‘EVERYONE IS A TRUE PROFESSIONAL’ What Our Clients Are Saying “Last year, The Law Offices of Marc L. Shapiro represented me in an automobile accident, and as usual, Marc not only saw to it that I had great doctors and excellent care, but he also got me a settlement for more than I expected. His knowledge of the law is only the first step; he has a great office full of people who love their job. They treat everyone with respect and always try to make it easy on the client. Everyone is a true professional. Thank you, Marc, for the years you have assisted me and my family. Great work!” –Vincent M. “My father lives in New York but was involved in a car accident in Florida. Although the firm was in another state, the treatment he received left a huge impression on him and our family. The Law Offices of Marc L. Shapiro will forever represent us. Thank you to everyone — the staff, the attorneys, and Marc Shapiro himself! A+” –Nuela S.
Your reviews offer us valuable feedback, but when you recommend our services to others, that’s the ultimate form of praise! Please share your experiences with the Law Offices of Marc L. Shapiro, P.A., on Google or on Facebook.com/AttorneyShapiroLaw. Your comments empower us, make us better, and allow us to help others.
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GRILLED STEAK SALAD WITH PEACHES
Ingredients
• • • • • •
1 lb skirt steak, fat trimmed 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar 1 clove garlic, minced 1 tbsp light brown sugar
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Black pepper
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 large lemon, juiced 6 cups baby arugula
1 tbsp vegetable oil
2 ripe peaches, thinly sliced
Kosher salt
1/3 cup crumbled blue cheese or feta
Directions
1. In a large resealable plastic bag or baking dish, combine steak, vinegar, garlic, and brown sugar. Marinate 20 minutes at room temperature. 2. Remove steak from marinade, coat with vegetable oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. 3. On a grill or pan set to high heat, cook steak until desired doneness. Rest 5–10 minutes, then thinly slice against the grain. 4. In a small bowl, whisk olive oil and lemon juice to make dressing. Season with salt and pepper. 5. In a large serving bowl, add arugula, peaches, blue cheese or feta, and steak. Drizzle with dressing and gently toss.
BARBECUE CONCERT
INDEPENDENCE LARKSPUR
SHADE STARGAZING TRAVEL VACATION
FISHING FOURTH
PARK POOL
Inspired by Delish.com
(239) 500-5000 • 3
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
720 Goodlette Rd. N, Suite 304 Naples, FL 34102 www.AttorneyShapiro.com
Inside Personal Injury Wasn’t an Initial Job Choice Page 1
You Can Write a Contract on a Napkin!?
There Were 735 Boating Accidents in 2022 Page 2
What Our Clients Are Saying
Grilled Steak Salad With Peaches Page 3
Sandy Toes, Sunny Skies, and Beach Bliss Page 4
DISCOVER YOUR IDEAL SEASIDE RETREAT Find the Perfect Beach Rental
Here are a few things to consider before booking a beach rental for your vacation. Size Matters How many people are coming on your trip? Is it just you and your significant other, or are children coming? You will want to pick a rental to fit your family’s needs. If your traveling party is small, a condo or apartment overlooking the beach will likely work. If your family is large or you’re worried about the kids being too loud, consider a single-family beach house instead. Location, Location, Location You probably already know what beach to visit, but choosing a specific unit can be challenging. Is a rental with a grand view of the beach and the ocean worth the cost, or is one without quite the view (but less
expensive) still acceptable? You’ll also need to examine the surrounding area to ensure it has everything you need. If you don’t want to drive much once you settle in, choose a rental within walking distance of the beach, shops, and restaurants. The Extras You should consider a couple of other things when booking a beach rental. If you plan to bring your pets, ensure the rental you book is pet-friendly. It’s also worth investigating if the beach itself is dog-friendly, as bringing your furry friend to the beach can make the vacation even more enjoyable. Many rentals also provide beach toys, body boards, and more so you don’t have to spend money buying or renting them at shops. Read through the rental description, and don’t hesitate to ask the owner any questions.
One of the most important decisions anyone will make regarding their vacation is where they stay. This is especially true for summer vacations at the beach. Everyone has a different idea of their ideal vacation, and where you stay can make or break the trip.
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