Angelos Legal Group, P.C. Blog | Lutherville Timonium, MD

Why Lawyers Remain Essential in a Digital World

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 13:36:36 GMT

In an age where digital solutions are rapidly transforming the landscape of nearly every profession, the role of lawyers continues to be indispensable. This article explores why legal professionals remain crucial in a world increasingly dependent on technology. As industries advance technologically, the need for legal guidance becomes even more pronounced to ensure compliance and safeguard rights. This necessity is particularly evident in the realm of digital law, where changes occur rapidly and require expert interpretation.

Interpret Digital Laws Effectively

Lawyers are vital in interpreting digital laws that affect both individuals and businesses in various sectors. The rapid technological advancements have resulted in new legal challenges that only skilled professionals can navigate effectively. Their expertise helps demystify complex regulations that govern online transactions, digital communication, and cyber activities. According to the American Bar Association, local law offices remain the primary provider of legal services, with more than 60% of clients hiring attorneys within their own state as of 2024.

As digital landscapes evolve, so do the laws that regulate them, making legal interpretation an ongoing necessity. Lawyers play a crucial role in keeping abreast of these changes and providing accurate guidance to their clients. This ensures that businesses operate within legal frameworks, avoiding potential penalties while maximizing their digital ventures. The reliance on local lawyers emphasizes the importance of having accessible legal expertise that understands the specific regulations of each jurisdiction.

Lawyers also provide a bridge between technological innovations and legal systems that were not originally designed with such advancements in mind. By translating digital laws into practical solutions, they enable clients to adopt new technologies without falling afoul of regulatory requirements. This proactive approach not only protects businesses and individuals but also fosters innovation by removing legal barriers to digital adoption.

Protect Data Privacy Strategically

Data privacy has emerged as one of the most critical areas where legal guidance is required in the digital world. With increasing concerns about privacy breaches and data theft, lawyers are instrumental in ensuring compliance with stringent regulations like the GDPR and CCPA. They help organizations understand their obligations and implement necessary measures to protect consumer data. This expertise is crucial in preventing costly legal repercussions and maintaining consumer trust.

Legal professionals offer tailored advice on data privacy strategies that align with a company's unique industry and geographical location. This includes guidance on data collection, storage, and sharing practices that comply with applicable laws. By crafting robust data privacy policies, lawyers help safeguard sensitive information and mitigate the risk of regulatory fines. Their role is essential in navigating the complexities of cross-border data transfers, which are subject to varying legal requirements.

Furthermore, lawyers assist in incident response planning, preparing organizations to handle potential data breaches effectively. Their involvement ensures that businesses not only comply with the legal aspects of incident reporting but also maintain reputational integrity. As digital infrastructures continue to expand, the demand for knowledgeable legal professionals who specialize in data privacy will only increase. They provide a vital service in protecting personal and corporate data in an era where digital threats are ever-present.

Safeguard Intellectual Property

In the digital age, intellectual property laws play a pivotal role in safeguarding innovations and creative works, where lawyers provide invaluable expertise. Digital platforms have made it easier than ever to share content, but they have also heightened the risk of intellectual property theft and infringement. Lawyers ensure that businesses and individuals can protect their intellectual property rights effectively, enabling them to capitalize on their innovations without the fear of unauthorized use or copying.

Legal professionals assist clients in registering trademarks, copyrights, and patents, offering comprehensive protection for their intellectual assets. This process involves meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of both domestic and international intellectual property laws. By securing these rights, lawyers help deter potential infringements and strengthen a company’s market position. This level of protection is crucial in fostering innovation and encouraging creators to continue developing new digital products and services.

In disputes over intellectual property, lawyers play a critical role in mediation and litigation, defending their clients' rights in court if necessary. Their expertise in negotiating settlements and pursuing legal remedies ensures that any violations are addressed promptly and effectively. The growing importance of digital intellectual property protection underscores the need for continued legal support in this area. As technology continues to evolve, the guidance of experienced lawyers remains indispensable to navigating these complex legal landscapes.

Strengthen Cybersecurity Measures

Cybersecurity is an area where legal and technological considerations intersect, with lawyers playing a critical role in developing comprehensive protection strategies. As cyber threats become more sophisticated, businesses require more than just technical defenses; they need legal safeguards that address potential liabilities and compliance issues. Lawyers work closely with cybersecurity experts to draft policies and procedures that protect against data breaches and other cyber incidents.

Their involvement is crucial in ensuring that businesses are equipped to handle the legal aspects of cybersecurity, from compliance with regulations to incident response. Lawyers advise on best practices for data breach notifications, investigation procedures, and mitigation measures, while also ensuring compliance with laws such as the NIS Directive and other applicable standards. These legal safeguards are essential in maintaining customer trust and preventing significant financial and reputational damage.

Moreover, legal professionals help draft and review contracts with third-party vendors, ensuring that cybersecurity standards are maintained across all partnerships. They ensure that liability is clearly defined and that all parties understand their obligations related to data security. This collaborative approach to cybersecurity reinforces the need for legal expertise in a digital world where the consequences of a cyber attack can be devastating. As reliance on digital systems increases, the role of lawyers in developing robust cybersecurity strategies is more important than ever.

Draft and Enforce Digital Contracts

In the realm of digital transactions, lawyers are essential for drafting and negotiating contracts that outline the terms and conditions of online activities. Digital agreements present unique challenges, requiring precise language and an understanding of complex legal frameworks. Lawyers ensure that these agreements clearly define the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved, reducing the risk of disputes and facilitating smooth transactions.

Legal professionals bring their expertise to the table, drafting contracts that address issues such as data ownership, usage rights, and confidentiality. They play a crucial role in negotiating terms that protect their clients' interests while ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. This becomes especially important in cross-border transactions, where varying legal standards must be respected. By providing clear contractual agreements, lawyers help businesses avoid misunderstandings and potential legal conflicts.

Additionally, lawyers are instrumental in enforcing contracts, ensuring that all parties adhere to agreed-upon terms. In instances where disputes arise, they provide mediation and, if necessary, legal representation to resolve issues effectively. This ability to navigate the intricacies of contract law underscores the vital role lawyers play in the digital economy. Their expertise ensures that digital transactions are secure, transparent, and legally sound, fostering a trustworthy digital marketplace.

As digital technologies continue to advance at a rapid pace, the expertise of lawyers remains indispensable. They guide businesses and individuals through complex legal landscapes, safeguard intellectual property, ensure data privacy, and craft secure digital agreements. By bridging the gap between innovation and regulation, lawyers enable the safe and responsible adoption of new technologies. In an ever-evolving digital world, their role is not only protective but also foundational, fostering trust, compliance, and sustainable growth. Reach out to Angelos Legal Group to learn more about our services today.

The Importance of Estate Planning: Safeguarding Your Legacy and Future

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 18:30:00 GMT

Estate planning is a critical aspect of managing your affairs and ensuring that your wishes are carried out in the event of incapacity, medical emergencies, or passing away.

At the Angelos Legal Group, we offer a comprehensive package that includes a Last Will and Testament, Advanced Medical Directive, and Financial Power of Attorney. Understanding the importance of these legal instruments will help you protect your assets, make informed decisions about your healthcare, and provide for your loved ones.

Last Will and Testament

A will is a foundational document in estate planning that allows you to dictate how your assets will be distributed upon your death. Key reasons to have a will include:

Asset Distribution: A will enables you to specify who will inherit your property, money, and possessions, ensuring that your intentions are carried out and minimizing potential conflicts among family members.
Guardianship: If you have minor children, a will allows you to designate a guardian to care for them in the event of your passing. This ensures their well-being and allows you to choose someone you trust to raise them according to your values.
Executor Appointment: You can appoint an executor in your will to manage the administration of your estate, ensuring that your affairs are handled efficiently and according to your wishes.

Advanced Medical Directive

An advanced medical directive, which combines a living will and a healthcare power of attorney, allows you to make decisions about your medical care when you are unable to do so. Reasons to have an advanced medical directive include:

End-of-Life Decisions: A living will outlines your preferences for life-sustaining treatments, resuscitation, and other medical interventions in case of terminal illness or irreversible conditions. It provides guidance to healthcare providers and ensures your wishes are respected.
Healthcare Proxy: A healthcare power of attorney designates a trusted person to make medical decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. This ensures that someone you trust will advocate for your interests and ensure your healthcare preferences are honored.

Financial Power of Attorney

A financial power of attorney grants authority to someone you trust to handle your financial matters when you are unable to do so. Reasons to have a financial power of attorney include:

Incapacity Planning: In the event of illness, injury, or cognitive decline, a financial power of attorney ensures that a designated agent can manage your finances, pay bills, handle investments, and make financial decisions on your behalf.
Avoiding Conservatorship: Without a financial power of attorney, loved ones may need to go through the time-consuming and costly process of obtaining conservatorship to manage your affairs. Having a designated agent in advance can avoid such burdensome legal proceedings.

Estate planning is crucial for protecting your legacy, ensuring your healthcare preferences are respected, and providing for your loved ones. By having a will, advanced medical directive, and financial power of attorney, you can make informed decisions about asset distribution, healthcare choices, and financial management.

To get started on your package today, give us a call…

How an Attorney Can Help You After a Car Accident in Maryland

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 18:28:00 GMT

Being involved in a car accident can have a significant impact on your life, including physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens.

The Angelos Legal Group can provide invaluable support and guidance during this challenging time.

Our attorneys specialize in personal injury law and have a deep understanding of Maryland's specific laws and regulations concerning car accidents.

We will evaluate the specific circumstances of your accident and determine the strength of your claim, including the potential value of your case and the likelihood of success.

We will deal with the insurance companies involved so that you don’t have to. Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, as they often seek to minimize their liability and offer lower settlements. Our attorneys can level the playing field by:

Handling Communication: Our attorneys will handle all communication with insurance companies, ensuring that you do not inadvertently say anything that may harm your claim.
Negotiation Expertise: Our attorneys will negotiate with insurance adjusters to pursue a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the accident.
Litigation Preparation: If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, our attorneys can prepare your case for litigation and advocate for your rights in court.

Following a car accident in Maryland, the guidance and representation of a skilled car accident attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. If you were in a car accident, call the Angelos Legal Group today…

Navigating a DUI Stop in Maryland: Your Rights, Breathalyzer Tests, and the Role of a DUI Defense Attorney

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 18:27:00 GMT

Facing a DUI stop in Maryland can be a stressful and potentially life-altering experience. Understanding your rights, the implications of breathalyzer tests, and the importance of legal representation is crucial.

The Angelos Legal Group is here to help you navigate this situation.

Understand Your Rights during a DUI Stop in Maryland

When pulled over for a suspected DUI in Maryland, it's important to be aware of your rights and take appropriate actions:

Remain calm and polite: Stay composed and respectful when interacting with law enforcement officers.

Provide identification and vehicle documents: Provide your driver's license, registration, and proof of insurance when requested.

Exercise your right to remain silent: You have the right to avoid self-incrimination. Politely inform the officer that you prefer not to answer questions without your attorney present.

Decline field sobriety tests: Field sobriety tests are voluntary, and you have the right to decline without legal consequences.

Breathalyzer Tests in Maryland

Maryland has an implied consent law, which means that by operating a motor vehicle in the state, you are deemed to have consented to chemical testing to determine your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) if suspected of a DUI. Here's what you need to know:

The choice to take a breathalyzer test: In Maryland, you have the right to choose whether or not to take a breathalyzer test.

Implied consent consequences: Refusing a breathalyzer test in Maryland may lead to administrative penalties, such as a driver's license suspension. It's essential to understand the specific consequences in your situation.

Potential evidence against you: If you consent to a breathalyzer test, the results can be used as evidence against you in court. However, your attorney can challenge the accuracy and reliability of the test.

The Role of a DUI Defense Attorney in Maryland

Seeking legal representation from a skilled DUI defense attorney is crucial to protect your rights and build a strong defense. Here's how the attorneys at Angelos Legal Group can assist you:

Assessing the evidence: Our attorneys will thoroughly evaluate the evidence against you, including police reports, breathalyzer results, and field sobriety tests. They will identify any weaknesses or constitutional violations that can be challenged.

Developing a defense strategy: Based on the circumstances of your case, our attorneys will craft a personalized defense strategy. This may involve challenging the validity of the traffic stop, questioning the accuracy of the breathalyzer test, or disputing the reliability of field sobriety tests.

Negotiating plea agreements: Our attorneys are highly skilled at negotiating with the prosecution for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options, aiming to minimize the impact on your record and driving privileges.

Representing you in court : If your case proceeds to trial, our attorneys will provide zealous representation in court.

If pulled over for a DUI in Maryland, it's important to know your rights, make informed choices regarding breathalyzer tests, and seek immediate legal representation.

If you are facing this challenging situation, please call us today…

Attractive Nuisances: Understanding Liability in Maryland

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 18:24:00 GMT

If your child was injured on someone else’s property, the Angelos Legal Group can help.

When a child is injured due to an attractive nuisance on someone else's property, parents may wonder about their legal options for recovering damages. This blog post explores the concept of attractive nuisances, the liability of property owners in Maryland, and the avenues available to parents seeking compensation for their child's injuries. Read on to understand the legal framework and steps parents can take to protect their rights.

Understanding Attractive Nuisances

Attractive nuisances are man-made conditions or objects on a property that are likely to attract children and pose a risk of harm. Examples include swimming pools, trampolines, playground equipment, and abandoned buildings. Maryland recognizes that young children may not fully comprehend the dangers associated with these attractions, placing a legal duty on property owners to protect them from harm.

Liability of Property Owners

In Maryland, property owners have a legal duty to exercise reasonable care to prevent harm to children who may be attracted to their premises by an attractive nuisance. This duty exists even if the child is trespassing on the property. To establish liability, the following elements are generally required:

Existence of an attractive nuisance: The property owner must possess or maintain an object or condition that is likely to attract children.
Foreseeability: The property owner should have reasonably anticipated that children could be drawn to the attractive nuisance.
Failure to exercise reasonable care: The property owner must have neglected to take reasonable measures to eliminate or reduce the danger posed by the attractive nuisance.
Injury or harm: The child must have suffered an injury or harm as a direct result of the property owner's failure to exercise reasonable care.

Parental Recovery of Damages

When a child is injured due to an attractive nuisance, parents may pursue legal action on their child's behalf to recover damages. The following avenues may be available:

Negligence claims: Parents can file a lawsuit alleging negligence on the part of the property owner. To succeed, they must demonstrate that the property owner breached their duty of care, causing the child's injuries.
Premises liability claims: Parents may also bring a premises liability claim, asserting that the property owner's failure to maintain a safe environment led to the child's injuries.
Attractive nuisance doctrine: Parents can invoke the attractive nuisance doctrine to establish the property owner's liability. This doctrine recognizes that young children may be drawn to certain hazards and holds property owners accountable for failing to protect them.

It is crucial for parents to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who can evaluate the circumstances of the case, guide them through the legal process, and advocate for their child's rights. Call us today…

Injured at Work? Here's What to Do

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 18:23:00 GMT

Sustaining an injury while on the job can be a stressful and challenging experience. It's crucial to understand the steps to take after a work-related injury and the importance of seeking legal assistance to navigate the workers' compensation claim process successfully.

The Angelos Legal Group is here to help you navigate your worker’s comp claim and maximize your recovery.

Before filing your claim, there are a few things you need to do:

Seek Medical Attention

If you're injured, promptly seek medical attention. Your health and recovery should be the primary concern. Ensure that you receive appropriate medical care and follow your healthcare provider's advice for treatment and rehabilitation.

Notify Your Employer

Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible, preferably in writing. Provide a detailed account of the incident, including the date, time, location, and nature of the injury. Adhere to any specific reporting requirements outlined by your employer or state laws.

Document the Injury

Maintain a record of all relevant details related to your injury, such as witness statements, photographs, medical records, and any communication with your employer or insurance company.

Who’s Eligible and What are the Benefits?

In general, employees are eligible for workers' compensation benefits, regardless of fault, if they sustain an injury while performing work-related duties. However, some exceptions exist, such as self-inflicted injuries or those resulting from intoxication or violation of workplace policies.

Workers' compensation benefits typically include medical coverage, wage replacement (temporary or permanent disability benefits), vocational rehabilitation, and death benefits for eligible dependents in the case of a work-related fatality.

Changes to DWI/DUI Laws

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 17:17:00 GMT

We should always be mindful of the dangers of drinking and driving but even more so this time of year when many come together to celebrate the season. To make our roads safer, Maryland has recently made some important updates to its DUI/DWI laws, altering what is known as “Noah’s Law.” Noah’s Law was first created in honor of Noah Leotta, a police officer who tragically lost his life to a drunk driver. These changes aim to close a loophole that gave people charged with DUI the choice to either have Ignition Interlock devices installed in their vehicles or have restrictions placed on their license limiting the instances and hours when they were permitted to drive.

Noah’s Law now requires first-time DWI/DUI offenders to use an ignition interlock device for a period of six-months if they are granted probation before judgment. An ignition interlock device is a breathalyzer that is connected to a car’s ignition. It prevents the car from starting if alcohol is detected after the driver breathes into the device. Research shows that these devices can reduce repeat drunk driving offenses by about 70%. This change is extremely important because, in 2023, more than half of the 10,000 plus DUI offenders in Maryland were given probation before judgment.

Public Safety and Traffic Violations

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 17:16:00 GMT

Baltimore County Public School buses are now equipped with multiple exterior cameras to prevent motorists from passing stopped buses. Unfortunately, this behavior occurs far too often and puts students, bus drivers, and other motorists in danger. By law, vehicles traveling in either direction must stop at least twenty feet from a bus that is stopped with its lights flashing. The one exception applies if you are traveling in the opposite direction AND there is a median dividing the road. All buses in Baltimore County began the school year in August with the cameras in place, but violators received only warnings during the early phase with over 800 warning notices issued in the first eleven days of the school year. Beginning on November 4th, however, drivers who pass a bus with its flashing lights on will receive a $250 fine in the mail. Spread the word, follow the law, and let’s all do our part to keep our children safe.

What Does the Constitution Say About the Right to Vote?

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 17:15:00 GMT

It may come as a surprise to many people, but a guaranteed right to vote is not explicitly granted in the original Constitution or in the Bill of Rights. In fact, the Constitution outlines only a loose framework regarding voting and elections. The Elections Clause in Article I grants Congress and the Federal government the power to set the “Times, Places, and Manner” of congressional elections, which Congress used to establish a national election day. The Constitution also requires states to have a representative form of government including elections and majority rule. However, nothing in the original articles through the first ten amendments addresses a right to vote, leaving the issue of who may vote largely in the hands of individual states. In the early years of our nation, this led to wide variations in the voting laws between states. While most states restricted the right to vote to property owning white males, some states did allow women and even free people of color to vote. This patchwork of voting rights began to change after the Civil War when Congress passed the Fourteenth Amendment in 1868. Among other well-known portions such as the Equal Protection clause, it granted citizenship to all natural born and naturalized citizens, regardless of race, and prohibited states from restricting that right. Building on that guarantee of citizenship, the Fifteenth Amendment, passed two years later in 1870, prohibited any restrictions on the right to vote based on race. Together, these two amendments were the driving force behind the vast expansion of eligible voters in the post-Civil War years.

It wasn’t until 1920, when Congress passed the Nineteenth Amendment, that women were finally granted the right to vote. However, as voting rights were expanding on paper, low-income citizens of all races were increasingly unable to vote as states implemented poll taxes. These fees created a barrier to voting for those unable to afford the tax. In response to the proliferation of these restrictive policies, Congress passed the Twenty-fourth Amendment explicitly banning poll taxes. And finally, the Twenty-sixth Amendment passed in 1971, extended voting rights to all citizens over the age of eighteen.

Without these amendments advancing the progression of voting rights through our history, many of us would still not have the right to vote. This week, take advantage of these hard-fought rights and exercise your right to vote.

Motorcycle SafetyProtecting What's Important

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 17:13:00 GMT

We are also dedicated to well-being of motorcycle owners and enthusiasts and want you to be aware how best to ensure your safety while you are on the road. Click here to see a chart that provides an overview of state laws for motorcycles owners and riders like the requirement to use a safety helmet and the required safety inspection upon the transfer of title. Motorcycle wrecks result in thousands of injuries and deaths each year. Being well trained can help prevent disaster and increase your chances for a safe ride every time. Should you have an accident though, know we are here to protect your rights as a rider using our extensive experience and personal care.

Tips for New Drivers

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 17:11:00 GMT

Last week, John Angelos presented to CareFirst’s “Parents of Teens & Young Adults Committee” regarding Legal Considerations for the new Maryland Driver . John discussed several keys issues which we have highlighted below. If you have a group of young people that you think would benefit from a discussion on this topic, feel free to contact us. Also, click here to get more information on a Young Driver Safety Program being hosted by the Baltimore County Fire and Police departments on October 19th.

1st Traffic Stop – Mistakes are both human and normal, remember to have the following documents in your car: divers license, registration, proof of insurance. A reminder, you can be “stopped” , even if you are parked, and the engine is off.
1st Accident – Accidents happen. If one does occur while you are behind the wheel, your first step should be to call your parent or guardian. Try not to be intimidated, these are stressful situations for everyone involved. At a minimum, take pictures of the damage sustained to both vehicles, the license plate of the other car, and make sure to get the name of the other driver. If the police are on the scene, make sure you get the name of the police officer present.
Don’t Drive Distracted – The phone call or text message can wait. If your car does not have Bluetooth connectivity, try turning your phone off before you drive to avoid any tempting distractions. Also, if you know someone is driving, wait to call or text them until after they have finished their drive.

Say Goodbye to Recreational Facilities Liability Waivers

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 17:08:00 GMT

Were you aware that on May 16, 2024, the Maryland General Assembly and Governor Wes Moore officially prohibited liability waivers for negligence in recreational facilities? This new legislation ends the practice of having to complete pre-injury waivers within these facilities and allows participants to know their rights are protected and their safety is prioritized. Before this law, commercial recreational facilities in Maryland, such as trampoline parks and rock-climbing facilities, could require customers to sign waivers of liability for negligence as a condition of entry or participation. These waivers effectively prevented paying customers from holding the facility legally accountable for injuries or death caused by the facility’s own negligence, a practice detrimental to consumers’ safety. This law declares pre-injury contractual waivers of liability of negligence to be void and unenforceable as a matter of public policy. This means that commercial recreational facilities can no longer require customers to sign away their rights in advance, thereby ensuring that these businesses are held to the same standards of reasonable care as other businesses and professionals in Maryland.

Team Updates:

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 17:07:00 GMT

Our team has been working on several serious medical negligence, wrongful death, and personal injury claims with great results for our clients. If you or a loved one has been injured due to an auto accident or medical negligence, please contact us so we can help.

Welcome to both Marisa Basignani and Jonah Edeson, both rising 2nd year students at University of Baltimore Law School, who have joined us as Law Clerks.

We are proud to announce that Attorney John Anderson has been named to the Board of Directors of The Baltimore Station, a resident treatment program supporting veterans who are overcoming obstacles to regain self sufficiency.

Sending a child off to college?

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 17:06:00 GMT

If your child is off to college then you should make sure you have a Medical Power of Attorney (POA). This is a necessary legal document for medical decision-making if your child is incapacitated. Students who are now 18 are seen as adults when making medical decisions. If the student can’t speak for themselves, then this document will be recognized to empower designated parents/caregivers to communicate with medical personnel on their behalf. Our office will provide this COMPLIMENTARY to any family that contacts us. Call or email our offices using the contact info below. Click this link to see other helpful legal tips you should know.

Marijuana Misdemeanors Pardoned in MD. Does this Impact you?

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 17:05:00 GMT

On June 17, 2024, Governor Wes Moore signed an executive order pardoning 175,000 cannabis-related convictions in Maryland. However, receiving a pardon does not stop a criminal conviction from showing up on a background check or removing it from the police system. A separate process known as expungement is required in order to permanently shield the record of a past criminal conviction. This means that individuals recently pardoned by Governor Moore are now eligible to expunge their criminal record of that cannabis-related conviction. Our attorneys will process expungement for those recently pardoned by Governor Moore on a COMPLIMENTARY basis. Contact us if you need this service.

Swimming Pools: Requirements for Owners and Protections for Swimmers

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 17:04:00 GMT

Summertime brings with it fun in the sun and good times in the pool. Both swimmers and pool owners should be aware that there are Maryland laws establishing requirements for pool owners and protections for pool users. As a private homeowner in Maryland, you must provide “reasonable care” to guests you invite to use your pool. For private pool clubs, there is a higher duty for your safety that a company must follow, because you would be considered a business invitee. Reasonable care means you must ensure that the pool area is reasonably safe for your guest and inform the guest of any potential dangers that are not immediately obvious. For example, having a gate or fencing around your pool is one common requirement however, know that every county has different rules regarding this matter.

If your child is injured while using a swimming pool on someone else’s property, parents may pursue legal action to recover damages as follows:

Negligence claim: Parents can file a lawsuit alleging the property owner was negligent. To succeed, they must show that the property owner has breached their duty of providing reasonable care, causing the child’s injury.
Premise liability claim: Parents may also bring a premise liability claim, stating the property owner failed to maintain a safe environment, which led to the child’s injury.

Should your find your family (or you as an adult) to be in a situation like this, please contact us immediately so we can evaluate the circumstances of the case, guide you through the legal process, and advocate for your rights.

Labor Day 2021

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 17:01:00 GMT

The American workforce is the backbone of our Country. This Labor Day weekend, we want to remind you of legal protections that are available and how we can assist you if you are injured in the course of your employment.

For work-related injuries, the exclusive remedy is to apply for benefits through your employer. Workers’ Compensation is governed by the Workers’ Compensation Act, a state law which protects workers and their families from hardships and financial burdens after an injury. Importantly, Workers’ Compensation is a no-fault remedy, so compensation is available for almost all types of injuries sustained on the job, regardless of who is responsible.

Applying for these benefits can seem challenging if you do not understand the policies and procedures. It may also be difficult to retain a good relationship with your employer while also getting the remedy you deserve. Our priority at Angelos Legal Group is to ensure that you get the best medical treatment for your injuries and to receive fair and legal compensation. Unfortunately, some injuries result in hardship and are permanent in nature. In these types of complicated matters, it is in your best interest to speak with an attorney regarding your options. Please feel free to contact me for a complimentary consultation so I can guide you through this process.

NOTE: As a reminder to parents who have children in college, either in state or out, it is recommended that they have a Durable Power of Attorney for Medical Care in their college medical file. This document allows Mom or Dad (or another adult) to assist in making medical decisions in the event your child/student is unable to communicate their treatment wishes. I prepared this document for my daughter and her roommate last month; I am here to assist you in this endeavor as well.

We hope you enjoy a relaxing holiday weekend with loved ones. Stay safe and healthy, and please reach out if you need anything. I can be reached at johncm@johnangeloslaw.com or by phone at 410-252-2066. -John

Happy Holidays 2021 from Angelos Legal Group

Fri, 07 Jan 2022 20:27:00 GMT

If you have a pet, their health and safety is likely at the top of your mind, and you should know what the laws are if something ever happens to them. Currently, state law provides a right to recover up to $10,000 in compensatory damages if your pet is killed due to the negligence of another. Damages generally include the fair market value of the pet and reasonable cost of veterinary care. However, a pet owner cannot recover damages for mental and emotional distress from the death of a pet, even if someone intentionally killed your pet. Many other states recognize a greater right of recovery if someone maliciously injures your pet. Considering the roles of pets in our lives, should our State permit the recovery of emotional distress damages when a pet dies from intentional conduct? We would love to see your thoughts on our Facebook page .

In addition, if your pet injures another individual, you may have coverage under your own homeowners’ policy. If you are a victim of an animal bite, you should consult with our office regarding your legal rights.

Your End of Year To-Do List:

Have you reviewed your auto insurance policy recently? With winter weather approaching, I highly recommend an annual check on your policy and a candid discussion with your Agent to make sure you are protected from drivers with minimal coverage. So often, I am the one who has to tell my accident victims that even though you were hurt by a negligent driver, there is little or no insurance to fairly compensate you for your medical bills, lost income, and pain. There is a solution – making sure you have uninsured motorist and underinsured motorist coverage in excess of $100k on your own policy. Coverage for UM or UIM motorist matters should not be overlooked. Call me if you have any questions. The State also has an excellent online pamphlet at Maryland Insurance Administration.com for further information.

Do you have a Will and Power of Attorney ? Is it up to date? I can make the process simple, straightforward and streamlined. Contact my office for guidance (we can do it remotely) and cross this off your list.

On behalf of the Angelos Legal Group, I thank you for your kind support over these many years. As I enter my 32nd year of practice, please know that we are here to represent you and your families for your legal needs. Have a great holiday season and a healthy New Year. John C.M. Angelos: (410) 252-2066, C: (410) 913-5560

Veterans Day Message from John Anderson, Jr., USMC

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 19:03:00 GMT

My name is John Anderson, Jr. and I am an Associate Attorney with Angelos Legal Group. It is my honor and pleasure to personally introduce myself to you over this 2021 Veterans Day Holiday. Before becoming an attorney, I spent five years in the Marine Corps infantry, traveling around the globe before my last deployment to Afghanistan. After leaving active duty, I started my academic career in the Fall of 2012 and graduated four years later with a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice from the University of Baltimore. I then attended the University of Baltimore School of Law and graduated in December of 2019, achieving my Juris Doctor. I became a member of the Maryland Bar in June of 2020.

Presently, I am working on personal injury, medical malpractice, divorce and family law cases, criminal defense, and a variety of other matters with many different individuals. Though I work on a wide array of cases, I do have one case that I want to describe that is particularly important to me personally. A gentleman with prior service was referred to me because I advocate for the rights of other Veterans and those who currently serve our country.

I represented this Veteran in Baltimore City in a factually unique matter. The client was charged with serious criminal charges which are traditionally handled by the criminal courts and can lead to significant jail time. However, in Baltimore City there is a unique court solely for Veterans: Veterans Treatment Court (VTC). While the facts of this matter could have prevented this Veteran from standing before the VTC, I was able to successfully move his case into this court. As a result, the Veteran was able to stay in the community under strict guidance and supervision so he could continue to work and support his family and community. Without this resource for Veterans, this gentleman would not have been able to stay out of jail and receive the treatment that he so desperately needed. If you know a Veteran who is struggling or facing an uphill legal battle in our justice system, please have them call our office.

Veterans Treatment Court is a valuable and underrated resource for Veterans who have been struggling after their service. Each year the court celebrates the VTC anniversary with Veterans Day, and this year, myself and John C.M. Angelos are proud to announce that we will be in attendance at this very special celebration on November 16, 2021.

Lastly, Angelos Legal Group is supporting Wreaths across America by sponsoring Veterans’ Wreaths for Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens (MDDVMG). We will also be in attendance for their 2021 ceremony on December 18th at noon to help place wreaths on each of the 4000+ veterans buried at Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens. We invite all of those who are available to please come join us in supporting our veterans and their families.