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BERT’S BUZZ JULY/AUGUST 2023
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LISTENING IS A FORM OF JUSTICE Why I Let My Clients Do the Talking
No matter what, when it comes down to it, my job is to prove two elements: that something was done to this person that was not their fault and the wrongdoing caused them considerable pain they do not deserve. My goal is to deliver justice to my client, and you have to listen carefully to understand better the consequence needed to provide justice. While I’m not a perfect listener, I have learned how to become more attentive over the years. As an attorney, I recommend knowing your firm’s unique mission and values, then applying those to how you care for your clients. When you care for the person speaking, you sympathize with their motivations, their concerns, and the ultimate point of why they came to you for help. For your personal life, it might seem more complicated, but it’s actually straightforward. As an attorney or professional, you’re tuning in your comprehension to reach a goal and understand your clients or partners. In personal relationships, we usually just want feedback from others and to feel heard. There’s no need for structured guidance or efficient solutions. Let them do all the talking they need to. You have two ears and only one mouth for a reason!
There’s a distinct difference between hearing someone and listening to someone. When we passively hear someone talking, we’re likely not giving them our undivided attention or absorbing everything they’re saying. Oftentimes, this is what most people do, even other attorneys. World Listening Day falls on July 18 and is meant for us to practice fully listening to those around us. I want to take this time to share how I value listening in nearly every facet of my life. As an attorney, I am responsible for advocating for my client and telling their story. To effectively do that, I need to understand the story thoroughly as well as the pain they have experienced along the way. If I want to prove their case successfully, I need to listen deeply to them so I can ask the right questions, read between the lines, and discover what other avenues I need to explore. Sometimes, it can be challenging for clients to talk about the great deal of pain they’ve gone through. It can be like opening an old wound. I will never force my clients to speak about an experience they struggle to share. This is when I make it my duty to have that conversation with those close to them. These loved ones will know the pain that has affected my clients, and I will listen intently to every piece of information until I can assemble the entire story.
When we listen, we’re not just sitting there — we’re silently engaging in the conversation. Looking at the origin of the word “dialogue,” dia means through, and logos means words, so in “dialogue” we can find meaning through words. You can be present and active in a dialogue by simply understanding the speaker without talking. This is where so many people, especially lawyers, start to falter. What good is talking if you aren’t gaining information from the other person? Listening is a form of justice for my clients who need their voices heard. Every day, not just July 18, the Parnall Law team and I ensure we’re actively listening to every person who steps into our office. If you’ve experienced an accident or injury and feel ignored, we’re here to take the time and understand your story. Call us at (505) 268-6500 , and we’ll help you find the justice you deserve.
—Bert Parnall
Published by Newsletter Pro • www.newsletterpro.com
2025 San Pedro Dr. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110 | www.hurtcallbert.com | 1
After an injury or accident, you’ll likely need to speak with an insurance adjuster, also known as a claim adjuster. Their job is to decide if you should be financially responsible for the incident, and if they’re not your own insurance company, then they’ll certainly try their hardest to pin the bill on you. That’s why speaking to an adjuster can be like walking through a minefield, where any wrong statement can be used against you. For this reason, I recommend you always speak with a lawyer before having that conversation. However, sometimes it’s inevitable, and you’ll have to speak with a claim adjuster even without an attorney. In that case, you should keep a few things in mind, such as what exactly not to do when talking to an insurance adjuster. Don’t get too friendly. When you get on the phone, this worker may seem surprisingly sympathetic and welcoming. While they may seem friendly, you must keep things professional and get to the point. The last thing you want is to get too comfortable and share personal information, be it about your health, medical history, or the events of the accident. No matter how nice, they will use this information against you since the conversation will always be recorded for later use. Keep the conversation professional and brief. You don’t want to end up oversharing and ultimately losing your case because of it. Don’t lose your cool. Another main problem some clients have is that they might take out their frustrations on the claim adjuster. We get it. Navigating Everything You Shouldn’t Say to Adjusters A GUIDE TO SPEAKING WITH INSURANCE COMPANIES
long-winded legal processes, medical bills, injuries, and the aftermath of the accident is no easy journey, especially when facing the possibility of it all being out of your pocket. However, yelling or mistreating an adjuster can make matters worse, as they’ll be less likely to help you or work in your favor. As we said earlier, keep the conversation professional and maintain respect at all times. Don’t provide confidential records. On these calls, they may try to trick you into handing over your medical record and history. The claim adjuster might even say that not providing them can reduce your chances of receiving compensation. This is far from the truth; they have no legal right to access your medical history without your permission. The same rule applies to work history and salary information if you haven’t missed any wages. You only have to give them just enough information and none that will ever harm your case. These rules don’t necessarily apply when speaking with your own insurance company, as it is the law for them never to put their own interest higher than yours. This is called owing you a duty of fairness. If you or someone you know needs more guidance for handling conversations with insurance adjusters, negotiating settlements, and other personal injury legal processes, contact our expert team at (505) 268-6500 . We’ll do the heavy lifting for you.
2 | 505-268-6500 | 2025 San Pedro Dr. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110
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Many modern parents grew up with “The Baby-Sitters Club,” Ann M. Martin’s beloved middle-grade book series that debuted in 1986. The novels were an instant sensation, capturing the imaginations of 8- to 14-year- olds until publishing ended in 2020. Since debuting, they spawned a 1990 television series, a 1995 movie, and endless nostalgia. And with Netflix’s 2020 reboot of the series, you can live it all over again — this time, as a family. “The Baby-Sitters Club” on Netflix garnered positive critical reviews, excitement from old fans, and interest from current tweens. The creators updated their two-season series for modern times while maintaining the beloved friendships and scenarios that made the original series so popular. And unlike most teen television programs, Netflix cast actors the same ages as their characters, making them more relatable for viewers. For the uninitiated, “The Baby-Sitters Club” follows the wholesome exploits of several 12-year-old girls who decide to make extra money babysitting. Kristy Thomas, Mary Anne Spier, Claudia Kishi, Stacey McGill, and Dawn Schafer always have each other’s backs despite their sometimes conflicting personalities. Though babysitting plays a crucial role in the series, the main focus is on the relationships between the sitters. The television series is and isn’t the same one parents initially loved. The Netflix version includes plenty of nods to ’90s nostalgia; Alicia Silverstone plays Kristy’s mom, and the club members use a “retro” landline telephone for their business. But there’s also lots of fresh material for those meeting the babysitters for the first time. The episodes take titles and basic plot points from the original novels but add additional nuance to the stories. Similarly, the characters’ fashion is familiar yet updated for today’s looks. The series is also set in the here and now, with cellphones, social media, and more. This adaptation keeps old and new fans in mind and works hard to please them both. Unfortunately, Netflix canceled “The Baby-Sitters Club” after two seasons, but all 18 episodes remain on the streaming service. In a time when most media targets niche audiences, this series is something the entire family can enjoy and discuss together. You might even consider reading the books alongside the episodes and sharing which version you prefer. Ultimately, “The Baby-Sitters Club” is more than a blast from the past, but a way for generations to bond over beloved characters and stories. SAY HELLO TO YOUR FRIENDS AGAIN ‘The Baby-Sitters Club’ Entertains a New Generation
Want to join forces with a dynamic, experienced, and reputable team?
Parnall Law — “Hurt? Call Bert” — is the largest plaintiffs’ injury law firm in New Mexico. We have attorney openings and are looking for self-motivated candidates who are enthusiastic and confident team players in an energetic and collegial environment. Parnall Law was recently voted “Top Workplace” (2020–2022) by the Albuquerque Journal and “Best Places to Work” (2019–2021) by Albuquerque Business First! So, what are you waiting for? Start your exciting and lucrative new career today! APPLY TODAY! HURTCALLBERT.COM/CAREERS
Grilled Steak Salad With Peaches
Ingredients
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil • 1 large lemon, juiced • 6 cups baby arugula • 2 ripe peaches, thinly sliced • 1/3 cup crumbled blue cheese or feta
• 1 lb skirt steak, fat trimmed • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar • 1 clove garlic, minced • 1 tbsp light brown sugar • 1 tbsp vegetable oil • Kosher salt • Black pepper
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. Inspired by Delish.com
2025 San Pedro Dr. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110 | www.hurtcallbert.com | 3
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If you are a medical professional or a lawyer practicing in another area of law, we welcome you to refer your patients or clients. We know you want the best for your patients and clients, and so do we. Call us today at 505-207-0144 or visit HurtCallBert.com for more information on our services.
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
1
Are You Being Heard?
2
No, Claim Adjusters Are Not Your Friends
3
We’re Hiring!
Grilled Steak Salad With Peaches
How ‘The Babysitters Club’ Spans Generations
4
To Meddle or Not to Meddle?
Does Your Teen’s Drama Require Intervention?
HOW TO KNOW WHEN TO GET INVOLVED
However, you may need to get involved if the drama spirals out of control.
Get Involved The following signs should prompt you to intervene to provide guidance and support: • Your child’s grades are starting to decline. This is especially worrisome if they usually have good grades. • Your teen begins to withdraw and isolate themselves from family and friends. • Your teen makes fewer plans to hang out with friends. • Your child tells you they spoke to an adult at school about the argument, school authorities haven’t helped, and the situation is getting worse. • Your teen becomes short-tempered and irritable. Still Unsure … Even if you notice any of the behaviors mentioned, getting involved in your teen’s social life is still difficult. However, the best thing to do is ask your child if they need your help. They may accept or deny the offer outright, but the simple act of asking lets them know you’re there. Then, regardless of their answer, let your child know you’re always available to listen and offer support. And, finally, don’t be afraid to protect and defend your child if a genuine need arises.
We’ve all been to high school, and no matter what decade you graduated in, your teenage years likely contained a few fights with friends or drama at school. However, as a parent today, it can be hard to watch your teens go through these friendship feuds, but the question is this: Should you get involved? Unfortunately, the question has no perfect answer, as each circumstance differs. For some teens, your involvement may help them feel less alone and more understood, while for others, it may push them away. So, while we can’t tell you the best thing to do in your child’s situation, consider a few pieces of wisdom when debating whether or not to get involved. Adversity Training As painful as it is to watch your teen fight with their friends, the truth is that some of these arguments are good for their development. They are learning opportunities for your teen to understand how to handle uncomfortable situations, take responsibility for their actions, apologize, and problem-solve. Plus, if you get involved every time they disagree with friends, you’re ultimately teaching your child you’ll always be there to solve their problems, and they’ll never learn to work through adversity on their own.
4 | 505-268-6500 | 2025 San Pedro Dr. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110
Published by Newsletter Pro • www.newsletterpro.com
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