The Finley Firm, P.C.The Finley Firm, P.C.2026-07-07T15:47:13Zhttps://www.thefinleyfirm.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1304506/2023/09/cropped-site-icon-32x32.pngOn Behalf of The Finley Firm, P.C.<![CDATA[What is PFAS, and what medical issues does it cause?]]>https://www.thefinleyfirm.com/?p=512362026-06-04T23:20:04Z2026-06-04T23:20:04ZWhat exactly is PFAS?
PFAS is a group of chemicals that includes numerous different compounds often utilized by manufacturers to make products resistant to water, grease or staining. PFAS can help waterproof work boots. Companies also use PFAS in cosmetics, non-stick cookware and firefighting products.
Unfortunately, PFAS is a forever chemical. It tends to persist indefinitely in an environment after contamination occurs. It also remains detectable within the human body long after exposure.
That persistent presence makes it a health concern, especially for those exposed at high levels regularly due to groundwater contamination. People who use products that contain PFAS or live near industrial facilities that use PFAS are at risk of serious medical complications.
What health issues does PFAS cause?
There are numerous medical issues associated with PFAS exposure, including kidney and testicular cancer. PFAS also has an association with developmental issues in children, as well as liver and immune system damage in people of all ages.
People diagnosed with medical issues associated with PFAS exposure may potentially have grounds to take legal action against industrial waste. When improper environmental practices lead to PFAS contamination, businesses may ultimately be liable for the medical complications triggered by chronic PFAS exposure. Those who suspect that an illness relates to PFAS may need help reviewing chemical assessments and medical records.
They may be able to initiate or participate in a class action lawsuit intended to hold a business accountable for PFAS contamination. Reviewing concerns with an attorney who handles environmental damage cases can help people understand their options.]]>On Behalf of The Finley Firm, P.C.<![CDATA[5 Steps to Take After a Slip-and-Fall Accident in Georgia]]>https://www.thefinleyfirm.com/?p=512312026-02-23T14:12:32Z2026-02-23T14:12:32ZA slip-and-fall can disrupt your health and finances in seconds. What you do next may affect your ability to recover compensation under Georgia law.
Seek medical attention immediately
Your first priority is medical care. Even minor pain can signal a deeper injury.Prompt treatment creates a record that connects your injuries to the fall. Insurance companies often question delayed care.
Report the incident and document the scene
Notify the property owner, manager or landlord right away. Ask for a written incident report and request a copy.Before conditions change, document the area carefully. Make sure you capture:
Hazard: Spills, uneven flooring, broken stairs or debris.
Warnings: Missing cones or caution signs.
Surroundings: Lighting, layout and nearby security cameras.
UnderGeorgia Code Title 51. Torts § 51-3-1, owners and occupiers must exercise typical care to keep their premises safe for everyone. This can include reasonable inspections and warning of hazards that cannot be fixed immediately.Clear photos and a written report may help show whether that duty was met.
Collect witness information
If anyone saw the fall, ask for names and contact details. Independent accounts can support your claim.Many cases focus on whether the property owner had superior knowledge of the hazard. Witnesses may help establish how long the danger existed and whether employees were aware of it.
Preserve evidence and track losses
Keep the clothing and shoes you wore in a safe place. Do not wash or repair them.Maintain copies of medical records, bills and proof of missed work. If your fall occurred on city or county property, you may need to send a formal ante litem notice within 6 or 12 months depending on the agency involved.Georgia generally allows 2 years to file a personal injury lawsuit. Acting early may prevent the loss of critical evidence and protect your claim.
Consider speaking with a personal injury attorney
Slip-and-fall claims often involve disputed facts and insurance resistance. An attorney can review the scene evidence, evaluate witness statements and assess whether the property owner may have breached a legal duty.Taking informed steps early may strengthen your position and reduce avoidable setbacks.]]>On Behalf of The Finley Firm, P.C.<![CDATA[How do you prove fault in a car accident?]]>https://www.thefinleyfirm.com/?p=511882025-06-16T16:21:06Z2025-06-16T16:21:06ZProving fault in a car accident in Georgia involves many different factors. If you're in an accident and need to establish who’s at fault, it’s important to understand the steps to support your claim.
Gather evidence from the scene
Right after the accident, make sure to collect as much evidence as possible. Take clear photos of the vehicles, damages, and the scene, including any skid marks or debris. If there are traffic signs, signals, or road conditions that might have contributed, capture those as well. Also, get contact information from any witnesses. Their statements can be invaluable when determining fault.
Get a police report
In Georgia, police are often called to the scene of an accident, especially if there are injuries or significant damage. A police officer will prepare a report that includes statements from the drivers and witnesses, as well as the officer’s observations. While the police report itself doesn’t determine fault, it can strongly influence the outcome by documenting important details.
Review Georgia traffic laws
Georgia has strict traffic laws that play a major role in determining fault in an accident. For instance, under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-20, drivers must obey traffic signals, and failing to do so could make them at fault in a crash. If a driver violates these laws—such as running a red light or failing to yield—they will likely be held responsible for the accident. Understanding these laws is key to proving who caused the crash.
Use expert testimony if needed
In cases where the evidence is unclear or if there’s a dispute, experts like accident reconstructionists can be helpful. These experts examine the scene and physical evidence to recreate the crash, which can clarify how it happened and who should be held responsible. In Georgia, expert testimony is often used in court when physical evidence alone is insufficient.By knowing what steps to follow, you increase your chances of proving fault in a car accident. It’s crucial to act quickly after the accident to preserve evidence and ensure you have a strong case.]]>On Behalf of The Finley Firm, P.C.<![CDATA[How do you get a protective order against your abuser?]]>https://www.thefinleyfirm.com/?p=511772025-06-02T13:56:35Z2025-06-02T13:56:35ZIf you feel threatened or unsafe because of someone's behavior, obtaining a protective order can offer you legal protection. This court order restricts the abuser’s actions and helps keep you safe. Understanding how to get a protective order and what it entails empowers you to take control of your situation.
What is a protective order?
A protective order is a legal document issued by the court. It directs the abuser to stay away from you, your home, workplace, or other specified places. The order can also prevent any form of contact, whether in person, by phone, or through social media. This separation helps reduce the risk of further harm or intimidation.
How do you request a protective order?
You begin by filing a petition with your local court. The petition explains why you need protection and what restrictions you want against the abuser. Courts often provide forms and guidance to assist with this process. You can file the petition in person or sometimes online, depending on your jurisdiction.After filing, the court may issue a temporary protective order immediately. This short-term order offers protection until the court holds a full hearing, where both you and the abuser can present your sides.
What happens during the hearing?
During the hearing, you will explain why the order is necessary. The abuser can respond and present their side as well. The judge then decides whether to grant a longer-term protective order, which can last weeks, months, or even years.The court’s main goal is to ensure your safety while respecting legal rights. If the judge grants the order, it will detail the specific terms the abuser must follow.
What if the order is violated?
Violating a protective order is a serious offense. If the abuser disobeys the order, law enforcement can intervene, which may lead to arrest or other penalties.You should keep a copy of the order with you and share it with trusted people and authorities. This helps enforce the order and protect you effectively. Taking this legal step can help you regain peace of mind and safety.]]>On Behalf of The Finley Firm, P.C.<![CDATA[How does maintenance negligence affect public spaces?]]>https://www.thefinleyfirm.com/?p=511702025-05-20T22:31:16Z2025-05-20T22:31:16ZPublic spaces like parks, sidewalks, and community centers need regular upkeep to stay safe and welcoming. When maintenance falls short, you might face risks that impact your safety and comfort. Understanding how negligence affects these areas helps you recognize potential dangers around you.
Increased risk of accidents
When public spaces lack proper maintenance, hazards such as broken benches, cracked sidewalks, or damaged lighting can appear. These issues create trip hazards and unsafe environments that increase the chance of falls and injuries. You rely on these spaces to be safe, but poor upkeep can put you at risk. For example, a missing handrail on stairs or slippery surfaces can lead to serious accidents.
Reduced accessibility and usability
Neglected maintenance can make public spaces harder to use, especially for people with disabilities. Overgrown vegetation, uneven paths, or malfunctioning ramps may block access. This limits your ability to enjoy community spaces fully and creates barriers for many visitors. These issues can also affect families with strollers or elderly individuals who need safer paths.
Negative impact on community well-being
Well-maintained public spaces encourage social interaction, exercise, and relaxation. When these areas fall into disrepair, fewer people visit, reducing community engagement. The appearance of neglect can also make you feel less safe and lower your neighborhood's overall appeal. This may even contribute to increased vandalism or littering, making the area less attractive.
Understanding responsibility and prevention
Local governments or property managers usually handle maintenance, but delays or budget cuts can cause neglect. By knowing how negligence affects public spaces, you can stay alert and encourage proper care. Reporting hazards helps keep your community safe and inviting. You can also participate in community efforts to promote upkeep and awareness.Public spaces thrive when maintenance keeps them safe, accessible, and welcoming. You benefit when those responsible uphold their duties, ensuring these areas remain places you want to visit.]]>On Behalf of The Finley Firm, P.C.<![CDATA[The open and obvious doctrine in Georgia premises liability cases]]>https://www.thefinleyfirm.com/?p=511692025-05-13T20:39:07Z2025-05-13T20:39:07ZWhen a person gets hurt on someone else’s property in Georgia, that individual may try to hold the property owner responsible. These types of legal claims fall under premises liability. One key rule in these cases is the “open and obvious” doctrine, which could stop someone from winning a case if the danger was easy to see and avoid.
What does “open and obvious” mean?
The “open and obvious” doctrine says that if a hazard on a property is clear enough for any reasonable person to see, then the injured person should have avoided it. Property owners must fix or warn about dangers, but only if people wouldn’t easily notice them on their own.Therefore, Georgia courts consider what the injured person could see and what a careful person would do in the same situation. If the hazard was out in the open and not hidden, the injured person might not win. Even if the property owner knew about the danger, the open and obvious rule can still protect them from being held responsible.
How does this rule affect premises liability claims?
The “open and obvious” doctrine often becomes the main argument in slip-and-fall cases. For example, if someone slips on a wet floor but there was a warning sign nearby, the court might decide the person should have seen the sign. If a person trips over an uneven sidewalk crack that was clearly visible in daylight, the rule might apply in that situation, too. These kinds of cases often depend on the details. The court asks details about whether the claimant had a clear view and enough time to avoid the hazard.Understanding this rule helps people know their options if they get hurt on someone else’s property. It reminds everyone to watch where they’re walking and stay aware of their surroundings. Knowing how the “open and obvious” rule works can also help people recognize when a property owner might still be responsible.]]>On Behalf of The Finley Firm, P.C.<![CDATA[What’s behind many car accidents in Georgia?]]>https://www.thefinleyfirm.com/?p=511672025-05-07T13:48:42Z2025-05-07T13:48:42ZWhen you think about car accidents in Georgia, speeding or drunk driving probably come to mind first. But many serious crashes occur during ordinary moments. You could be heading to work, picking up your kids or running a quick errand. Simple habits like speeding up at a yellow light can result in major consequences.
While you often overlook these everyday behaviors, they play a big role in the increasing number of car mishaps across the state.
Distractions while driving are more common than you realize
Even though Georgia’s hands-free law bans texting while driving, distracted driving still leads to thousands of crashes each year. A total of 1615 road incidents occurred in Georgia during 2023, and this is a combination of rural and urban vehicular accidents. Many drivers don't realize their actions put them and others at risk until it's too late. Every day, distractions and habits impair your focus and reaction time. Here are some of the most common causes:
Looking at your phone: A quick glance can delay your reaction to a traffic jam or road hazards.
Eating or multitasking while driving: Taking your hands off the wheel or your eyes off the road, even briefly, puts you in harm’s way
Changing the radio or looking at the GPS: A moment of distraction can lead to disaster
Tailgating or weaving through traffic: These aggressive habits leave less room for mistakes
Phones aren't the only problem, fatigue can reduce your focus just as much.
Fatigue on the road: As harmful as drunk driving
Your reaction time drops if you're exhausted or running on little sleep. You might drift out of your lane or miss a red light if you lightly doze off. Fatigue-related crashes occur quite frequently on rural roads and during extended drives.You don't have to be completely tired to be a threat on the road. If you start blinking more than usual or have trouble staying focused while driving, you’re already putting yourself at risk.Fatigue is only one of several risks that can bring about serious problems on the road.
Bad roads and bad weather play a role too
Georgia drivers also face their fair share of road hazards such as heavy rain, sudden storms and poor drainage. These conditions can make driving unpredictable and increase the chances of accidents. Add in issues like potholes, missing signs and poorly marked lanes, and it becomes clear how easily accidents can happen, even when you're driving with caution.
How to stay safe on the road
You can prevent most accidents by building safer habits behind the wheel:
Stay focused: Don't check your phone, eat or tinker with the radio
Get enough rest: Being well rested helps you stay alert on long drives
Avoid multitasking: Keep both hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road
Give yourself time and space: leave early and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, especially in traffic or bad weather
To stay safe, it's important to establish better driving habits and understand what to do if you're involved in an accident.
What if you were involved in a crash
If you think you have contributed to the accident, understand your rights and responsibilities before taking any action. A legal professional may be able to walk you through your options and help you decide what to do next.]]>On Behalf of The Finley Firm, P.C.<![CDATA[How long do class action lawsuits take in Georgia?]]>https://www.thefinleyfirm.com/?p=511662025-05-01T18:39:51Z2025-05-01T18:39:51ZClass action lawsuits are complex legal cases, often involving numerous plaintiffs and a range of legal procedures. If you are considering participating in a class action lawsuit in Georgia, you may wonder how long the process takes. While every case is unique, there are general timelines and factors that can affect the duration of a class action case in Georgia.
Initial filing and certification process
The first step in a class action lawsuit is the filing of a complaint. This can take several months, depending on the complexity of the case and the number of plaintiffs involved. Once the complaint is filed, the court must decide whether to certify the class. Certification is a key step, as it determines whether the case can proceed as a class action or must be handled individually. The certification process can take several months, sometimes over a year, as the court reviews the case and assesses whether the plaintiffs meet the necessary criteria.
Discovery and pre-trial motions
After certification, the discovery phase begins. This is when both parties exchange evidence, take depositions, and build their respective cases. Discovery can last anywhere from several months to a few years, depending on the amount of evidence and the number of witnesses involved. During this phase, both sides may file pre-trial motions, which can further extend the timeline.
Settlement negotiations or trial
Most class action lawsuits settle before going to trial, as the parties may reach an agreement that avoids the need for a lengthy court battle. However, if a settlement cannot be reached, the case will proceed to trial. Trials can take several weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the issues and the number of plaintiffs involved. After the trial, there may also be an appeal process that can extend the timeline further.Overall, class action lawsuits in Georgia can take anywhere from one to several years to resolve. The timeline varies based on the complexity of the case, the number of plaintiffs involved, and the court's schedule. While class actions can be time-consuming, they offer a way for individuals to seek justice collectively when pursuing a case on their own would be difficult or impractical.]]>On Behalf of The Finley Firm, P.C.<![CDATA[How to Maximize Car Accident Claims in Georgia]]>https://www.thefinleyfirm.com/?p=511622025-07-22T14:54:25Z2025-04-23T20:35:01ZWhy people file a car accident lawsuit
Filing a lawsuit after a car accident is often necessary to secure the financial compensation you need. After an accident, you may face burdensome costs like:
Medical bills
Property damage/repair costs
Lost income due to the inability to work
By pursuing a claim, you are asserting your right to damages after suffering losses due to the careless actions of another.
Tactics insurance companies use to make lowball settlements
Insurance companies employ various strategies to offer settlements that are less than what you deserve. They might:
Deny liability
Downplay injuries
Attribute your injuries to a pre-existing condition
Try to blame you for the accident
Significantly delay payouts for damages
They may also try to contact you right after the accident to settle as quickly as possible. They do this because they know you are in a vulnerable position and may be more willing to accept any settlement, even if it's well below what you deserve.
How much can you get out of a car accident claim?
According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average auto liability claim for bodily injury was $18,41. Additionally, Nolo says that settlements for personal injury cases can vary widely. Factors like the severity of injuries and who is primarily at fault for the accident can determine the final amount.
How you can make the most of your auto accident claim
To maximize your car accident claim, it's crucial to:
Seek medical attention: Having sound evidence of an injury related to your accident from a certified medical professional is vital.
Gather all relevant documentation: These can include medical records, police reports and witness statements.
Carefully navigate conversations with insurers: Many use tactics to try and provide you with the lowest payment possible.
Hire an attorney: Consider negotiating or seeking professional help to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Hiring professional help for your car accident claim can be worthwhile. Typically, there are no upfront fees, and the representative takes a percentage of the settlement, incentivizing them to maximize your compensation. Our attorneys have extensive experience standing up for those injured in accidents, and also have represented the defense. This gives our team insights most other attorneys don't have - the way the other side thinks. If you have been injured in an accident, reach out to our car accident attorneys to learn how to maximize your compensation.]]>On Behalf of The Finley Firm, P.C.<![CDATA[How does trauma impact your legal case?]]>https://www.thefinleyfirm.com/?p=511612025-06-26T16:07:24Z2025-04-18T18:29:16ZExperiencing trauma can have lasting effects, both physically and emotionally. When it comes to legal cases, trauma can influence various aspects of the process. Whether it's a personal injury, assault, or any other crime-related incident, understanding how trauma can impact your case is important.
Emotional effects on your case
Trauma often leads to emotional distress, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These emotional effects can influence your ability to provide clear and consistent testimony. In some situations, trauma can even make it difficult to participate in legal proceedings or engage with attorneys and professional. The emotional toll may also affect the way you approach settlement discussions or decisions regarding the case.
Physical impact and evidence
Physical trauma can have significant implications for your legal case. Injuries may be obvious, but some can have long-term effects that aren't immediately visible. For example, traumatic brain injuries or other internal injuries may not be immediately diagnosed but could cause long-lasting consequences. These physical issues could impact the evidence presented in your case. Medical records, treatment history, and expert testimonies will often play a key role in establishing the extent of your injuries and the long-term effects.
Navigating legal challenges while healing
The recovery process, both emotionally and physically, can make legal proceedings feel overwhelming. For many, the legal process itself may exacerbate feelings of trauma. As a result, it’s important to work with professionals who understand the impact trauma can have. Legal teams and mental health professionals can collaborate to ensure your needs are addressed in the context of the case.In some cases, courts may allow accommodations for individuals who are struggling with trauma. These accommodations might include additional breaks during proceedings, the ability to give testimony outside of the courtroom, or other adjustments to reduce stress.The impact of trauma should not be underestimated. It can affect your ability to recover and make decisions throughout your legal case. By acknowledging this impact, you can help ensure that your case is handled with the care it deserves, giving you a good chance for a fair outcome.
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