Summation Quarterly, Summer 2025

PANAMA CLE & CULTURAL DISCOVERY TRIP

Phone:

Published quarterly by the Escambia-Santa Rosa Bar Association as a service to its membership.

Articles appearing in The Summation are not to be construed as official expressions of the views of the Escambia-Santa Rosa Bar Association. Official positions are expressed only by formal resolutions adopted by a majority of the membership and will be so designated when published. Editorials are expressions of the opinion of the Editor.

Due date for all advertisements, articles and announcements is the first of the month for the issue you wish to advertise in.

Address all editorial correspondence to the Escambia-Santa Rosa Bar Association office. For all inquiries concerning advertising rates contact Ballinger Publishing. The Summation Committee is dedicated to providing a publication to the legal community which contains articles that are accurate, informative, entertaining, educational, relevant and timely.

Summation Committee

If you have any comments or suggestions about The Summation, please feel free to express them to any of the committee members. If you would like to join the committee, please call the Bar office at

From the President

Reflecting on Progress, Looking to the Future

As my term as President of the Escambia-Santa Rosa Bar Association draws to a close, I find myself filled with gratitude, pride, and just a touch of disbelief at how quickly the year has flown by. In the world of law, we’re used to packed calendars and ticking clocks, but this year seemed to sprint by at the speed of a summary judgment.

Looking back, I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together as a bar association. From an unforgettable Law Week celebration to hosting a full calendar of continuing legal education events—both virtually and in-person—we demonstrated what it means to be a dynamic, engaged, and supportive legal community.

Law Week is always a celebrated highlight of our year, for good reason. We celebrated our shared profession while deepening our connection with the public we serve. Our programming was thoughtful and timely, and the participation—both in attendance and enthusiasm—was outstanding. Thank you to our sponsors for their support ensured the week-long festivities truly were a resounding success.

Again, this year, we facilitated several outstanding in person CLE Symposiums. These 6.0 credit events, bring us together as experts and colleagues and provide a venue to truly discuss the topics and areas that matter to us as legal minds. Not only was each event well attended, but they have been so graciously supported and embraced by our community partners and sponsors. They have not only supported the lunch, but have been engaging speakers providing their expertise and knowledge. Thrilled to say these events have become key to our continued dedication to ensuring the association is providing the best educational opportunities for our members throughout the year and beyond our digital library.

But beyond the achievements on paper, what I will remember most fondly is the spirit of collegiality and commitment that defines this association. Our members continue to show up—not just for the credit hours, but for each other. In a profession that can often feel isolating, our Bar has created space for camaraderie and connection. Sometimes it’s that post-seminar coffee chat or a casual exchange at a happy hour that makes all the difference in navigating the work we do.

Looking ahead, I am pleased and confident to pass the gavel to your incoming President, Rebecca Gilliland. Rebecca brings deep experience, steady leadership, and an unmistakable passion for community-building. She understands both the challenges and opportunities facing our legal profession, and I have no doubt she will continue to raise the bar—pun intended. Please join me in offering her your full support as we continue to grow together.

Now, just because I’m writing a “farewell” message doesn’t mean this is goodbye. I’ll still be around— just not with the microphone in my hand. Speaking of which, let me offer this reminder and a friendly nudge: keep participating. Keep showing up for CLEs, not just to meet requirements, but to stretch yourself, stay informed, and sharpen your practice. Keep attending socials, mixers, and gatherings—you never know where the next great idea (or referral!) will come from.

And, while I have your attention: don’t forget, membership renewals begin September 1st. Renew early. Renew proudly. Your involvement helps sustain everything we do; it is your membership that keeps the mission moving forward.

Thank you again for the privilege of serving as your President. It has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my professional life. I look forward to seeing what we accomplish together in the years ahead—with a full calendar, a strong network, and maybe even a few new inside jokes along the way.

Joe Passeretti

The Escambia-Santa Rosa Bar Association

Executive Council

Officers

President Joe Passeretti

Vice President

Rebecca Gilliland

Secretary

Stephen Luongo

Treasurer

Rachel Thomas

Immediate Past President

Christine Kelly

Executive Council

Kristina Cook

Brenton Goodman

Patrick Jennings

Jessica Scholl

Alexis May

Michelle Nguyen

Shelby Savage

Andrew Spencer

Angela Trawick

Aaron Watson

Young Lawyer

Representative

Alex Messmore

Don’t forget that members save 40% on our ever expanding library of CLEs

Scan this QR code to check out our current selection of great CLE programming!

Stay current on everything going on with the

Escambia – Santa Rosa County Bar Association

Be sure to check out the ESRBA website for all upcoming events.

Announcements

Members Celebrating 50 Years of Practice

Mark J. Proctor

David A. Simpson

David L. McGee

Senior Judge T. Michael Jones

Michael J. Griffith

Edmund W. Holt

Members Celebrating 25 Years of Practice

Galen M. Novotny

Colleen Cleary Ortiz

H. Wesley Reeder

Randall G. Rogers

T. Shane Rowe

Tara L. Said

Richard D. Barlow

Judge Darlene Dickey

Judge Jennie M. Kinsey

Ann E. Meador

Peter J. Mougey

Julie K. Nix

Attorney Eric Schurger with Emerald Coast Legal Aid (ECLA) recently made another donation of toys, books, and clothes to Gulf Coast Kids House (GCKH). ECLA delivers high quality legal services to indigent clients, including domestic violence victims.  GCKH helps children in the legal system who have experienced abuse, abandonment, and neglect. Visit nwfls.org and gulfcoastkidshouse.org for more information and opportunities to help.

The Escambia-Santa Rosa Bar Foundation Board of Directors

Officers

President D. Steve Traylor, Jr

Vice President

Jodi Dubose

Secretary & Treasurer

Cameron Gore

Directors

Jeremy Branning

Shekka Drayton

Heather Lindsay

Patrick Martin

Aaron McCurdy

Adrianna Spain

Warren Todd

Kasey Watson

John “Buz” Windham

Mikaela Ziko

Chris Kelly

ESRBA President Joe Passeretti

Escambia-Santa Rosa Bar Association

Young Lawyers Division Board of Directors

Officers

President

Alex Messmore

Vice President

Ander Schimek

Treasurer

Craig Wood

Secretary

Sara Davis

Directors

Brooke DiSalvo (Immediate Past President

Blake Radford

Rebecca Radd

Madison Stacey

Lexie Fuller

Will Hahn

Michelle Nguyen

Mitchell de Kozan

Kreg Jones

Gabe Mueller

Madison Leonard

Haley Hadden

Carllee Godwin

Sara Papantonio

Margaret Zinsel

2025-2026 OFFICERS

President

Rebecca Gilliland

Vice President

Stephen Luongo

Secretary

Aaron Watson

Treasurer

Andrew Spencer

Immediate Past President

Joseph Passeretti

EXECUTIVE COUNCIL

Kristina Cook

Brenton Goodman

Patrick Jennings

Alexis Mays

Michelle Nguyen

Shelby Savage

Jessica Scholl

Lee Elebash

Angela Trawick

Carllee Godwin

Hayley Hadden

Young Lawyers

Division President

Ander Shimek

Escambia-Santa Rosa Bar Association

2025-2026 ESRBA Membership Drive – Begins Sept. 1st

We would like to invite you to join our association! We realize it is by choice that attorneys join voluntary bar associations such as ours We are committed to providing exceptional member service, relevant CLE content, an array of networking and community service opportunities and engaging monthly bar meeting programs. In short, our goal is to provide value. We hope you will choose to join your fellow colleagues in supporting the ESRBA.

In an effort to streamline the process, we have combined the application and directory forms together into one packet. Renewal Letters will be going out at the end of August! As always, our office is here to assist if you have any questions.

Update your 2026 ESRBA Directory Listing with Membership!

• Highlight your Specialties and / or Board Certifications in our annual directory Use the form included in this packet to add as many as you want for only $25 per listing

• FREE Member Benefit: Include any additional State(s) you are admitted to practice in.

• Need an additional directory this year? Find the form attached to order an extra copy for your home or office.

Member Benefits Include:

Courthouse ID Badge

Leave your Belt On at the Escambia and Santa Rosa Courthouses

Discounts on CLEs!

Members SAVE 40% on our expansive CLE Library.

Sincere Jeff Nall Executive Director

260 S. Tarragona Street Suite 160 Pensacola, Florida 32502

Phone: 850-434-8135

E-mail: esrba@esrba.com

After Hours Networking!

Monthly Luncheons

News Direct from the Courts

Exclusive Discounts from National Partners

Subscriptions to the Summation Magazine and our weekly newspaper

Scan QR Code to Pay Online Renewal Period Begins September 1st!

News from the Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller

Changes to E-Filing Rules

Pam Childers

On March 20, 2025, the Florida Supreme Court issued an opinion amending the Florida Rules of General Practice and General Administration. These so-called “e-everything” amendments are at least five years in the making, with the previous attempt failing to be adopted by the Florida Supreme Court. In re Amends. to Fla. Rules of Jud. Admin., No. SC19-2163, 2021 WL 840980 (Fla. Mar. 5, 2021). This time around the Florida Supreme Court, in case number SC2023-1401, adopted the proposed amendments after considering written comments filed by the Florida Court’s E-Filing Authority and five of the six District Court of Appeals.

The recent changes might otherwise fly under your radar because the first two pages of rule changes are all about the operation of the Florida Court’s E-Filing Portal and the Florida Court’s E-Filing Authority. These amendments effectively formalize existing practices by incorporating them into the rules. Other amendments change what representations are made to a court when a document is signed and filed. Because of the volume of rule changes in the opinion, this article focuses only on the amendments to rule 2.525 and the effect on e-filing.

Under amended 2.525(f) when a document is submitted through the E-Filing Portal the Clerk’s Office is now obligated to make the filing part of the official court file and index the filing in the progress docket unless one of the seven reasons set forth in the rule apply. If none of the seven reasons apply an e-filed document must be placed in the court file. An e-filed document will be placed into the correction queue within the E-Filing Portal and will not be docketed if the filing:

1. is filed after a case number is assigned and lacks a correct case number and the correct case number cannot be reliably and easily identified

2. lacks a case style or has the wrong case style

3. consists of multiple documents filed as one document

4. consists of a multi-page document filed as separate documents

5. is a proposed order, unless the proposed order is filed under a notice of filing for purposes of preserving a record

6. is illegible, corrupt, or blank

7. is barred by order of court or is otherwise incapable of being filed in the clerk’s case maintenance system.

You’ll notice that “request of the filer” is not on the list. Frequently, the Clerk’s office receives a call from a filer just moments after submission. Sometimes the filer attached the wrong PDF or forgot to redact certain sensitive or confidential information. Under the previous framework, the Clerk had the discretion to move the filing into the correction queue, allowing the filer to resubmit the document. However, under amended 2.525(f) once the “Submit” button is pressed on the E-Filing Portal, the Clerk may reject a filing only for one of the seven specified reasons listed in the rule.

If any one of the seven categories applies and the filing is placed in the correction queue, the E-Filing Portal will, via e-mail, notify the filer and all persons initially served with the document the reason why the filing was unsuccessful. If any party received service of the filing via paper, then the filer is responsible for notifying that party of the unsuccessful filing.

When a document is placed in the correction queue by the Clerk, the document will be held for 30 days. Within those 30 days, three options may be selected by the filer. First, the filer may elect to file a new document to remedy the defect by navigating to the Correction Queue within the E-Filing Portal. Second, a filer may take no action and abandon the document, resulting in the document’s deletion. Finally, a filer may file a motion to review the action of the Clerk. If a motion is filed to review the Clerk’s action, the Clerk or the E-Filing Portal will hold the document until a decision is made by the Court. Filers are also required to attach a copy of the rejected document to their motion. The Court will then make a ruling on the motion for review.

The Court’s full opinion amending the rules can be found on the Florida Supreme Court’s website in case number SC2023-1401 or by scanning the QR code below with your phone.

Authored by Codey Leigh, General Counsel, on behalf of Pam Childers, Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller

Ihave been honored to serve as your Chief Judge from July 2019 to July 2025. During this time, the First Judicial Circuit of Florida witnessed a global pandemic, a hurricane, a cyber-attack, and the retirement of longtime trial court administrator Robin Wright. Covid-19 forced us to balance the health of the public with the Constitutional rights of defendants and litigants.  Hurricane Sally taught us to how to operate mission critical tasks of the court with limited resources and communications. The cyber-attack crashed our system for weeks and forced us to rebuild our networks.

Last but not least, trial court administrator (TCA) Robin Wright retired in April 2023, after 16 years of outstanding service to the court system. Her departure was the end of an era, and she is missed.

All these challenges and changes brought silver linings. The pandemic and Hurricane Sally forced us to “go virtual” and improve our technology. Each judge implemented remote hearing procedures. The Florida

News from the Bench

Chief Judge John L. Miller, First Judicial Circuit of Florida

Authored by Allison Newton

Supreme Court created rules for virtual hearings, and we still use Zoom today. As a result of the cyberattack, the First Circuit improved our technology and our cyber defense system. Thanks to funding from the Florida Legislature, we purchased an air gap backup system for our data and records. We also received county funding to hire an IT security employee, whose sole focus is cyber security.  And although we were sad to see Trial Court Administrator Robin Wright retire, we have been blessed that Kasey Watson has taken her place to continue the legacy of great TCA leadership.

Over the past six years, Tallahassee has been kind to the First Circuit. The State increased the salaries of support staff and judges to attract and retain qualified employees. The First Circuit received two new circuit judge seats and one new county judge seat. I have been honored to preside over 14 investitures in the past six years, with at least one in each of the four counties.

I am forever indebted to the lawyers in the First Judicial Circuit for their support and constructive feedback

during my tenure as chief judge. I am grateful to the local bar associations and other legal organizations for their support and guidance and for including me in numerous bar events and activities. I am very lucky to have served with two highly competent trial court administrators, Robin Wright and Kasey Watson. All our trial court support staff throughout the First Judicial Circuit are dedicated professionals. My judicial assistant, Susy Carlson, has always been the glue that holds everything together. Since 2002, she has been able to read my mind, keep me on task, and make it all work. Finally, I am grateful to all the other judges of the First Circuit who have shown patience, compassion, and the willingness to overcome all our many challenges.

It has been my great honor to serve over the last six years, and I know that I leave the First Judicial Circuit in extraordinarily capable hands with the incoming Chief Judge John Simon.

Wherever I have traveled, I have been so proud to tell others I am from the First Circuit. For those of us lucky enough to live and practice here, we are blessed to call it home.

PANAMA CLE & CULTURAL DISCOVERY TRIP

FEBRUARY 2026

by Jeff Nall

Our February CLE trip to Cuba was so much fun, we are planning another trip for February 2026. This time, we are off to Panama!

Mark your calendar for Thursday, February 19 through Sunday, February 22. The trip includes all accommodations, guided tours, meals and transfers, unless specified otherwise. Added bonuses – friends and family are welcome, no visa is required and U.S. dollars are accepted. This will be a great chance to experience another unique culture, escape winter in the Panhandle for a few days and enjoy the company of fellow association members.

Our journey will begin by flying from Pensacola to Panama City, Panama, where our guide will greet us before setting off for lunch and sightseeing at the Amador Causeway. After a buffet lunch featuring a mix of local and international cuisine, we will take in the sights along the iconic Amador Causeway — a picturesque stretch linking Panama City to four Pacific islands. During this panoramic drive, we will see the eye-catching Biomuseo, the majestic Bridge of the Americas, and ships lining up to enter the Panama Canal. Then, we will enjoy a laid-back, visually rich introduction to the beauty and highlights of Panama City as we proceed to the MARINN PLACE Financial District hotel to check into our deluxe queen accommodations. (Breakfast is included.). The stylish hotel is ideally located in the heart of Panama City and offers modern comfort and convenience, proximity to iconic attractions, shopping centers, and entertainment venue, and yet a relaxing sanctuary amidst the bustling city. After freshening up, we will take our private transportation to a folkloric dance dinner show. Our evening entertainment will feature a traditional Panamanian dinner and talented dancers dressed in colorful polleras and traditional attire performing lively rhythms like tamborito and cumbia — a perfect blend of culture, flavor, and celebration.

On our second day, we will be transported from the hotel to Corotú and Chagres National Park, Quebrada Candelaria, Panama for an Emberá Village and Jungle Experience. This full-day tour will take us deep into the jungles along the Chagres River, where the Emberá Indigenous tribes have lived in harmony with nature for generations.

We will delve into the vibrant culture and breathtaking natural beauty of the Emberá people on this immersive visit to an authentic village nestled within the lush rainforests of Chagres National Park. Traveling by traditional canoe and led by expert local guides, we will explore the heart of Emberá territory — a unique opportunity to connect with a community known

for its colorful traditions, spiritual wisdom, and close bond with nature. (If water levels allow, we will also visit a hidden waterfall — so don’t forget your swimsuit and towel if you’d like a refreshing swim!) A traditional Emberá lunch of fresh fried fish and plantains is included in this unforgettable journey that will provide a deep appreciation for the Emberá way of life and a rare glimpse into Panama’s living cultural heritage.

Day three will start off exploring Panama’s legal system and judicial landscape. This experience will feature a Florida Bar accredited CLE lecture delivered by a Panamanian lawyer, offering valuable insights into the country’s legal traditions, court structure, and the practice of law in Panama followed by a guided visit to a courthouse.

We will then explore one of the highlights of any trip to Panama, a visit to Casco Viego and the Panama Canal. This tour will blend colonial charm with modern engineering marvels. We will start in Casco Viejo, the city’s beautifully preserved historic quarter and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As we stroll through its cobblestone streets, admire colonial churches, colorful plazas, and elegant architecture, we will learn about Panama’s vibrant history and cultural fusion. Next, we will shift from the past to the present with a visit to the world-famous Panama Canal. Here we can witness massive ships navigating the locks and gain insight into the construction, operation, and global impact of the canal at the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center. This tour offers a perfect overview of Panama’s iconic landmarks — a journey through time, culture, and innovation.

We will commemorate our final evening in Panama with a second dinner show and evening of cultural immersion with a fresh twist on Panama’s vibrant folklore. This time, the setting and ambiance change, offering a new perspective on traditional Panamanian music and dance.

Our trip will conclude on the fourth day of our journey. We will say goodbye to Panama City and travel by from the hotel to Tocumen Airport (PTY) to return to Pensacola.

The trip is arranged by Scand-America International, the Florida-based travel company that coordinated our Cuba trip. The price, which includes all accommodations, guided tours, meals and ground transportation unless specified otherwise in the personalized itinerary is $1,975 per person in a double room. A signal supplement is available for an additional $200. Airfare is not included. Round trip airfare from Pensacola to Panama is estimated at $350-$550. To review the complete itinerary full terms and conditions and register……

The Escambia-Santa Rosa Bar Association Installs 2025-2026 Leadership and Presents Awards

by Jeff Nall

The Escambia-Santa Rosa Bar Association (ESRBA) recently held its annual installation banquet. Chief Circuit Judge John Simon conducted the installation of the 2025-2026 Executive Council and Young Lawyers Division (YLD) officers and members. The association also recognized several of its members for their service to the profession and community.

Newly installed ESRBA executive council officers and members are Rebecca Gilliland, President; Stephen Luongo, Vice President; Aaron Watson, Secretary; Andrew Spencer, Treasurer; Joe Passeretti, Immediate Past President; members Kristina Cook, Lee Elebash, Carllee Godwin, Brenton Goodman, Haley Hadden, Patrick Jennings, Alex Messmore, Jessica Scholl, Alexis Mays, Shelby Savage, Angela Trawick, and YLD representative Ander Shimek.

The 2025 Judge Ross M. Goodman Civility and Professionalism Award was presented to Jeremy Branning. Established in 2021, the award is bestowed to an ESRBA member whose dedication to civility, professionalism, and ethics exemplifies the character, commitment to the profession and to the administration of justice of Judge Ross Goodman, the inaugural recipient. The 2025 Michael A. Doubek Community Service Award was presented to Stephanie

White. The award is presented to a member or group of members of the Escambia-Santa Rosa Bar Association in recognition of volunteer service to the community.

Newly installed Young Lawyers Division officers and directors are Ander Shimek, president; Madison Stacey, vice president; Craig Wood, treasurer; Rebecca Radd, secretary, Alex Messmore, Immediate Past President and directors Marilee Butler, Carllee Godwin, Brooke DiSalvo, Lexie Fuller, Savannah Green, Will Hahn, Haley Hadden, Hannah McDonough, Gabe Mueller, Madison Leonard, Joseph (Joey) Seidler, Katherine Wu and Margaret Lovelock.

Brooke DiSalvo was recognized as the recipient of the 2025 Young Lawyers Division William S. Meador Award. The award is given each year to a young attorney who distinguishes themselves by their commitment to our community through charitable and civil service.  The award was established in 2005 to honor the legacy left by William Meador of practicing law with integrity, sincerity and courtesy while recognizing his commitment of giving back to the community.

The 2025-2026 Escambia-Santa Rosa Bar Foundation officers and directors were elected by the membership at the banquet. Newly elected officers are D. Steve Traylor, Jr., president; Jodi Dubose, vice president; and Cameron Gore,

secretary/treasurer. New and returning directors are Jeremy Branning, Shekka Drayton, Heather Lindsay, Patrick Martin, Aaron McCurdy, Adrianna Spain, Warren Todd, Kasey Watson, John “Buz” Windham, Mikaela Ziko, Chris Kelly and ESRBA President Rebecca Gilliland.

The Escambia-Santa Rosa Bar Association is a nonprofit voluntary organization for attorneys and judges in Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties in Florida. The Association has approximately 600 members. Its mission is to provide outstanding service to its members, assist them in serving the profession and the community, make the association indispensable to the bench and bar and preserve and promote the two-county area as a unique place to practice law in a culture of camaraderie, collegiality, competence and mutual trust. For more information about the association or how to become a member, visit www.esrba.com.

SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT

Helping Those Who Need It Most Since 1979

Founded in 1979 by Jere Locke Beasley, a former Alabama lieutenant governor, Beasley Allen Law Firm has grown to become one of the largest and most respected plaintiff’s law firms in the United States. With a steadfast commitment to “helping those who need it most,” the firm has built a reputation for securing justice for individuals and communities affected by corporate negligence and wrongdoing.

Beasley Allen’s success is rooted in its dedication to its clients and its relentless pursuit of justice. The firm has secured over $32 billion in verdicts and settlements, setting national records in various types of litigation. Some of the most notable achievements include a $4.85 billion pharmaceutical drug settlement, an $11.9 billion verdict against an oil company, and a $1.3 billion state Medicaid fraud settlement. These landmark cases have not only provided compensation to victims but have also prompted significant changes in industry practices and regulations.

With offices in Montgomery and Mobile, Alabama, and Atlanta, Georgia, Beasley Allen combines national reach with a deeply rooted local presence—serving clients across the country with compassion, integrity, and resolve.

Beyond the courtroom, Beasley Allen is committed to creating lasting change. Its attorneys champion causes that improve product safety, workplace conditions, and public health. Through pro bono work and support for charitable organizations, the firm continues to uplift communities and advance social justice.

Today, Beasley Allen stands as a powerhouse in civil litigation and one of the largest plaintiff’s firms in the nation, with a track record that speaks volumes. For over four decades, the firm has led the charge in effecting change, steadfastly adhering to Jere’s enduring commitment of “helping those who need it most.”

We are CPC Office Technologies, a leading provider of innovative office solutions across Florida, Alabama, and Georgia since 1972. Rebranded in 2016 from Copy Products Company, we now deliver managed print services, IT support, document workflow automation, and multifunction office equipment to empower businesses. Our acquisition of Best Copy Products in Auburn, Alabama, on May 6, 2025, expanded our reach to ten locations—four in Florida: Pensacola, Ft. Walton Beach, Crestview, and Panama City; six in Alabama: Montgomery, Monroeville, Birmingham, Daphne, Mobile and now Auburn, AL. This growth amplifies our ability to provide tailored technology solutions to law firms, state and local government, nonprofit and for-profit businesses, schools, and healthcare organizations.

Local ownership defines who we are. President Roger Wallace, who took ownership in 1988, fostered a client-centric culture. Our 2021 shift to an employee-ownership model empowers team members in each market to deliver exceptional service. One of those local owners in the Escambia County-Santa Rosa County market is Gregg Koontz. Gregg is Vice President and Partner Owner and has been with CPC for over 30 years.

Our managed print services optimize printing processes, reducing costs and waste for small and medium-sized businesses. We streamline operations with document management solutions that digitize and automate workflows, boosting efficiency for industries like education and healthcare. Our clients rely on us to deliver measurable results, from lower operational costs to enhanced productivity.

Through our partnership with Digital Boardwalk, we offer award-winning managed IT services, including cybersecurity, network planning, and backup and recovery, ensuring businesses stay secure and resilient. Our 35 factory-trained technicians, averaging 19 years of experience and supported by $1 million in parts, provide rapid, reliable support. We collaborate with top brands like Sharp, Canon, Lexmark, Brother and HP to deliver cutting-edge equipment.

We’re committed to driving efficiency and return on investment for businesses across our region, from the Northwest Florida Panhandle to most of the state of Alabama. Our solutions empower organizations to focus on their core goals while we handle their technology needs. Visit www.cpctek.com or call (850) 432-1580 to explore how we can elevate your workplace technology. What’s one technology challenge holding your business back? Let’s solve it together.

LSNF’S LIVING THE OATH LEGAL DISASTER TALK

by Melissa Condon Onacki

Welcome to another installment of LSNF’s Living the Oath: Legal Disaster Talk.

Reintroduction: Legal Services of North Florida (LSNF) is a nonprofit law firm that provides no cost civil legal help to residents who qualify, mostly low-income and at-risk people across 16 counties, from Escambia all the way to Jefferson County.

You might ask, why does Melissa want to have a Legal Disaster Talk with me? Good question! It is summertime. School is out, the sun is blazing, and grills are sizzling. While our brains attempt to bask in much-needed rest, we must stay vigilant because summer also brings two dreaded words: Hurricane Season.

On a personal note, disaster is near and dear to my heart. I am a self-proclaimed klutz, who literally landed on my feet after skydiving from 15,000 feet, only to fall fifteen minutes later while walking on a sidewalk. When I became a Disaster Coordination Attorney at LSNF, my parents and I had a good chuckle. After all these years, I’m officially a “Disaster.”

In this official capacity, I must ask: Did you know that if your name is not on the title of your home, it is next to impossible to make repairs after a disaster? Consider this scenario: You live in your childhood home that remains in your parents’ name who have passed. After a hurricane hits, you apply for FEMA assistance to repair storm damage. While FEMA may accept alternative proof of your property interest, the real problems begin when you need to hire a contractor. Contractors cannot pull the necessary permits without you being the title owner. Similarly, community partners like BRACE or Habitat for Humanity, which are valuable resources for additional funding and manpower, cannot assist with repairs unless you hold clear title to the property. Probate is the solution, but it’s time-consuming. Clearing these title issues before hurricane season means faster community recovery when disaster does strike.

Useful fact: A person can simply go to the county property appraiser’s website and enter the address of a property to determine if they are a title owner. If the property is titled in a deceased person’s name, or in “the estate of” they are living in heirs’ property.

How can you be part of the solution?

Share this information! Most people do not realize this issue exists. We live in a proud historic area where many residents live in family homes (heirs’ property), and every time I share this information, there’s at least one person who either knows someone or is someone living in heirs’ property. Knowledge is power.

Promote estate planning and probate: Thinking about death is not exactly fun; however, careful estate planning can help prevent so many legal issues. When necessary, probate cases should be filed to clear title issues. There are many wonderful probate practitioners in our community for referrals, and LSNF provides estate planning and probate assistance for lower-income residents.

Be a Pro Bono Hero with LSNF: LSNF’s resources can be limited, and our pro bono partners are an essential part of helping with cases like this. You will have an assigned attorney who can help you along the way, so no need to know it all! As the local pro bono liaison at LSNF (that’s right, she’s not just a disaster), I would love to connect about our pro bono opportunities: MOnacki@lsnf.org.

Stay safe this hurricane season and remember that while I may be the designated “Disaster” attorney (and a named storm this season), let’s work together to prevent real disasters in our community!

Young Lawyer’s Division

by Alex Messmore, YLD President

As I reflect on the last year, I am so very proud of what we’ve accomplished together and optimistic about where the organization is headed. Over the past year, we’ve continued to grow—not just in numbers, but in reach, relevance, and the strength of our programming. We’ve built on past momentum while staying focused on supporting young lawyers through real-world challenges and opportunities. It’s been a privilege to serve, and I look forward to seeing all that our new President, Ander Shimek, will accomplish this year.

Thank You for Supporting

Moore, Hill & Westmoreland

Aaron Erskine -

Need a Lawyer?

It is always a good idea to check with a lawyer before you make an important decision—whether you are buying a house, making a business deal, or settling a dispute. A short talk with a lawyer often tells you all you need to know—how serious a problem is, how to handle it swiftly and how to make sure it is settled for good.

Get Answers to Legal Questions Such As...

• Marriage, Divorce & Family Matters

• Business Problems

• Criminal Charges of Juvenile Hearings

• Wills, Trusts & Property of Decreased Relatives

• Tax Problems & Planning

• Credit or Collection Problems

• Corporation & Partnership Matters

• Real Estate Purchases, Sales or Disputes

• Consumer Problems

• Landlord/Tenant Relations

• Injuries to Yourself or Family Members

• Property Damage

• Workers’ Compensation

• Job Discrimination or Employer/Employee Disputes

• Patents, Trademarks or Copyrights

• Wages & Benefits

• Social Security Disability

• Labor Law

With over 50 participating local attorneys experienced in many different areas of law, we can help you find an attorney to handle your case.

Your call is free. When you meet with your lawyer, there will be a small fee of $40.00 for the first half-hour consultation. Fees for additional services after the first half-hour are arranged between you and your lawyer.

We do not have attorneys who accept pro bono or contingency cases.