NY Times Finds Poorer Tenants are Victims of Lead Exposure

A recent NY Times article found that 535,000 children a year test positive for lead poisoning. 

Many of these victims are preyed upon by investment companies seeking to rent to lower income families, and often the houses are found to have unsuitable living conditions. 

The article stated, "Poor families that buy or rent one of these rundown homes often find themselves with another problem: Because they do not technically own their house, they are ineligible for any state or local grants to help defray the cost of removing lead paint."

Our office has dedicated years to fighting negligent landlords to protect families victimized by lead exposure.

We have the expertise to help you. Contact us today.  

Officers Out on Patrol this Holiday Season

The Ohio State Highway Patrol has historically increased their presence on the roads during the Christmas season.

In an effort to decrease the number of fatalities, often caused by impaired drivers, officers are diligent to monitor all suspicious activity and ensure safe driving conditions.

This holiday season, amidst the endless shopping and trips to holiday parties, the Ohio State Highway Patrol offers the following safe winter driving tips:

• Allow extra time to get to your destination
• Maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and traffic ahead
• Call 1-877-7-PATROL (1-877-772-8765) to report aggressive or
impaired drivers
• Always pay close attention to bridges and overpasses, as they are often the first to freeze over

Enjoy Halloween without the DUI

Don't add handcuffs to your Halloween costume.

With endless parties and reasons to dress up, make sure you have a designated driver or use a car service before heading home.

Police are always on patrol looking for suspicious or reckless drivers, and holidays find even more officers on the road. This Halloween, be smart and avoid any chance of arrest.

If you do find yourself behind bars, our office is open 24/7 to meet all of your legal needs. 

Back to School Can Mean Back to Trouble

With friends gathered and new experiences for teenagers, it is important to be mindful of how and where they are spending their time.

Whether it is vandalism, drug use or underage drinking and driving, these criminal charges often bring high penalties including hefty fines, community service, and even jail time.

Don't let your child's record become permanently marked from poor choices with friends. We are available to provide you with the best options to secure a stable future for your teen even in the midst of criminal charges.

Contact us to ensure your teen continues to have the bright future you had planned for them.

East Bank of Flats Applies for First Open Container Zone

Fox 8 Cleveland recently reported that project developers and the Downtown Cleveland Alliance have submitted a petition to Cleveland City Council asking for Cleveland's first open container zone to be open weeknights and weekends.

"The number one question is, 'Oh, can we take our beer to go?' said Beerhead Bar manager Nick Foster. "I think it's a matter of not only is it convenient, but it encourages you to wander around more instead of being anchored down to one place or another, because we're all in this together."

Representatives of 11 of 13 businesses in the development, including Beerhead, signed a petition supporting the outdoor refreshment area.

"Via this legislation, at any point if something doesn't work out, city council can dissolve it immediately," said Ward 3 Councilman Kerry McCormack.

It is important to note that anyone causing a disturbance or who are cited with public intoxication can still face arrest.

If you find yourself facing any alcohol related charges, our offices are poised and ready to assist you 24/7. Contact us first.

University Hospitals Advises Parents to Look Out for Lead

"If you live in an older house or apartment, you might have a big problem on your hands that you have not realized: lead."

A direct quote from Dr. Aparna Bole at Rainbow Babies & Children's Hospital, Dr. Bole describes how toxic lead poisoning can be, especially for young children and infants.

In Dr. Bole's article, she concludes that lead poisoning is much more common than we realize, and that Cleveland ranks sixth among U.S. cities with the highest levels of lead poisoning.

She states, "In 2014 alone, more than 3,000 children in Cuyahoga County tested positive for lead levels that exceeded current experts' level of concern."

Our office has spent years working to help those suffering from lead poisoning to obtain the financial resources and medical support they need.

If you are living in a house or apartment built before 1978, your children could be at risk for lead exposure and we advise you to contact us today.

Please Support 'A Labor of Love'

A run/walk event that is fun for the entire family, this year's Run 4 Our Lady of the Wayside, hosted by Average Joe from Q104, includes a free family fun area for kids of all ages.

 

Whether you are ready to run four miles, two miles or enjoy a two-mile walk with your family, any participation will support Our Lady of the Wayside, a wonderful organization providing assistance and incredible services to children and adults with developmental disabilities.

The event kicks off at 8:30am on Sunday, September 18 at Rocky River High School (20951 Detroit Road, Rocky River, OH 44116).*

*Check In and Race Day Registration from 7:30-8:30 am.

Mark your calendar for Sunday, September 18 for this incredible event and visit Our Lady of the Wayside's website for more information.

Lead Crisis in Flint, Michigan Unaided by Congress

The New York Times reports that residents of Flint, Michigan who have been suffering from severe lead poisoning are still going without financial assistance.

As stated by The New York Times, "The state government, whose officials caused this crisis, has been loath to commit substantial funds to long-term needs."

Sadly, lead poisoning often affects younger children the most, causing long-term, irreversible damage. The article estimates, "8,000 or more children under the age of 6, whose developing brains can suffer irreversible damage from exposure to lead, drank the poisoned water, and some are already showing symptoms."

The cost to replace the pipes that have been giving residents lead-infected water are expected to be around $1 billion, and substantial needs are still going unmet of the families suffering from this tragedy. 

The article states, "It is outrageous that Flint residents, even though the city has switched back to cleaner water from Lake Huron, still have to rely on bottled water and filters because the lead continues to leak from the pipes. And children are not the only victims. Lead poisoning can have severe consequences for people of all ages."

Our office has supported families and has worked tirelessly against tenants who have placed children and families in dangerous conditions such as these.

If you suspect lead poisoning in your home, contact us today. 

Labor Day Weekend Brings DUI Arrests

With heavy traffic flow and lots of Labor Day parties, do you have an experienced lawyer to call if you are arrested?

An extra day off of work, an excuse to take a weekend getaway and a last barbecue before fall begins, every Labor Day weekend brings reason to celebrate. We advise you to think carefully before getting behind the wheel of a car as police officers will increase their presence during this three-day travel period.

Last year Labor Day weekend saw a spike in OVI and drug arrests as reported from the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Eleven fatal crashes resulted in 11 deaths and troopers arrested 804 people for OVI charges.

Colonel Paul A. Pride, Patrol Superintendent said, “We will continue to work hard at keeping Ohio’s roadways safe so that fewer senseless tragedies occur.”

Overall enforcement was up over five percent, with troopers stopping more than 35,000 vehicles in which a citation was issued. This Labor Day weekend, prepare for a longer drive to get to your destination and make sure you designate a sober driver.

In the event you find yourself being pulled over, our office is always open and we have the experience to help you with any DUI and drug arrest charges. 

100 Deadliest Days for Teens on the Road

With car accidents involving teenage drivers at an all-time high, summer marks the most dangerous season for young drivers to be involved in severe crashes.

With time on their hands before school starts, the importance of driving safely and without the influence of drugs, alcohol or cell phones is imperative.

As recently reported by Channel 19, "Car crashes are the number one killer of teens in America, with 20 percent of teens admitting to being a passenger in a car with a driver under the influence in the summer, and 71 percent admitting to speeding." Texting while driving is also a common occurrence.

If your teenage driver has recently gotten into an accident and you are looking for the best legal counsel, we invite you to contact our offices any day, any time. 

State Highway Patrol Reports 12 Fatalities on Fourth of July Weekend

A time for fireworks, cook-outs, and parties, the holiday weekend brought over 670 arrests in the state of Ohio.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol is reporting that 12 people lost their lives in a total of 11 traffic crashes during the July Fourth reporting period, which began Friday, July 1 and ended Monday, July 4. Troopers made 673 arrests for impaired driving and 325 for drug-related charges. 

“When someone chooses to drive after a night of drinking, the consequences can be deadly,” said Colonel Paul A. Pride, Patrol superintendent. “That’s why troopers make OVI enforcement a priority, whether they’re patrolling during a long holiday weekend or any other night. Motorists should be smart and always plan a sober way home.”

A DUI conviction in Ohio can carry hefty consequences. Even a first-time offender faces three days to six months in jail, up to $1,000 in fines and a three year license suspension. 

If you or a family member find yourself facing DUI charges, call our offices 24/7 and receive the legal support you need.

Pediatric Experts State More Needs to Be Done to Protect Children from Lead Poisoning

Research reveals that more than 3 percent of 5 million kids tested across the country had blood lead levels of more than five micrograms per deciliter of blood.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recently discussed the dangerous risks children are facing with lead exposure and said, "lead rules provide only an illusion of safety."

As reported by NBC News, pediatric experts throughout the country found the amount of lead exposure children are facing to be astounding. A team at Quest Diagnostics found more than 3 percent of 5 million kids tested across the country had blood lead levels of more than five micrograms per deciliter of blood, with Cincinnati, Ohio having one of the highest levels among six regions.

More can and should be done to protect children and families from the irreversible effects of lead poisoning.

If you live in a home built before 1960, you may be at risk for lead poisoning. Contact us today so we can arrange the proper medical care and compensation for you and your family. 

Proud to Assist Families for National Child-Centered Divorce Month

The month of July was focused on ensuring the needs of children are being met so they can thrive even after their parents divorce. 

National Child-Centered Divorce Month is recognized during July.

Divorce can be emotional for the husband and wife, but when children are entered into the mix it can become daunting.

We are compelled to support National Child-Centered Divorce Month and offer the entire family the help they need to successfully reach terms of a divorce that are beneficial for all parties involved. 

Rosalind Sedacca, CCT and expert on child-centered divorce, offered suggestions on how to navigate the waters with children when separating and going through a divorce:

• Put yourselves in your children’s shoes.
• Remind them they are not at fault.
• Reassure them that mom and dad will always be their parents.
• Focus on change, not blame.
• Be confident and consistent.

It is our goal to meet the needs of our clients and their entire family. If you are considering a divorce or seek legal counsel before proceeding, contact our office today. 

Is Sherwin Williams Producing Lead-Based Paint?

We tried to obtain damages for kids and Ohio for all of the lead paint sold here in Ohio. These companies hired lobby folks in Columbus to pass a law that prevented them from being sued.

The Plain Dealer reported.

"Petitioners call on Sherwin Williams, PPG to stop making lead paint 

CLEVELAND, Ohio— More than 5,300 people have signed an online petition calling on Cleveland-based Sherwin Williams and Pittsburgh's PPG Industries, two of the nation's largest paint producers, to stop making lead paint for sale abroad.

Lead-based paint has been banned from residential use in the United States since 1978 because it causes irreparable harm to the developing brains of children and can lead to learning disabilities, behavior problems, and lifelong health issues. At high levels, exposure to the toxin leads to seizures, coma and even death.

Will Explosion at Crocker Park Bring Lawsuit?

The unexpected and shocking propane tank explosion at Crocker Park last month left many questioning why and how it all happened. 

When speaking to Channel 3 News, Scott Allen, a spokesperson for the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration, stated that a propane tank exploding on a construction site is, “absolutely not typical.”

Allen said an OSHA inspector was on scene to investigate not just what happened to cause the blast, and determine the responsible parties, but also to uncover any additional OSHA violations at the job site.

“What we’re going to do is try to find out if the employer was following all OSHA standards and regulations, and try to determine how this doesn’t happen again. Honestly, these things can be prevented if all standards and regulations are followed,” Allen explained. 

This incident is just one of many that illustrates the dangers that can occur if employers do not follow or maintain safe practices. It is important as an employee to know your rights, especially when accidents like this occur.

We are proud to offer the depth of knowledge and experience to be ready to assist you and to work with you to uncover legal action that can be taken to protect you and ensure a safe workplace. 

St. Patrick's Day Brings Parade and Arrests

There is always a reason to celebrate in Cleveland on St. Patrick's Day.

This year, the festivities did not disappoint, with the Department of Homeland Security offering additional police presence.

Over 20 people were arrested downtown before the parade even began. Fox 8 News reported that a sobriety checkpoint was set up between 8:30pm and 11:00pm to apprehend suspected drunk drivers.

Cleveland Traffic Commissioner Jim Muhic told Fox 8, “We want to stop people from driving when they’re intoxicated. Before we had the parade, we put it out there that people should use public transportation and that they should also use designated drivers.”

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that 276 people died due to drunk-driving crashes on St. Patrick’s Day from 2009-2013.

Drivers are encouraged to call #677 if you suspect impaired driving, and the offices of Lipson O'Shea are available 24/7 if you have found yourself charged with a DUI. 

Lead Poisoning Causes President Obama to Declare State of Emergency

Often ignored and undiagnosed, lead poisoning is now receiving national attention due to the water crisis in Flint, Michigan. 

Most critical and dangerous for young children, the effects of lead poisoning are often permanent and life-changing. The current state of emergency declared in Flint, Michigan, has been credited to a mother of four who recognized physical changes in her children just from bathing in their water. 

The dangerous toxic levels from lead have often gone unnoticed. However, Lipson O'Shea has remained dedicated for years to families who have faced this awful and irreversible danger.

Record Number of Roadside Mortalities in 2015

Despite every effort to maintain safe driving conditions, it was reported that 1,054 people lost their lives due to traffic accidents this past year.

A five percent increase from 2014, it is vital to move into 2016 with safer roadways. The public is encouraged to continue using #677 to report dangerous or impaired drivers, as well as drug activity.

While police continue to patrol the roadways, if you have need of legal representation, we advise you to work with only the most qualified and experienced attorney. With over two decades of experience, Lipson O'Shea Legal Group is poised to help you in all areas. 

February is Not Always the Month of Love

Often thought of as the month of love, a study found that February is the busiest month of the year for divorce filings.

It was discovered that those seeking referrals for a divorce lawyer increases 38%, with the biggest spike being the day after Valentine's Day. February also has an increase of 18% in divorce filings as compared to every other month of the year.

Whatever your Valentine’s Day held, if you are considering a divorce from your partner, it is essential to meet with an attorney who has the experience and knowledge to advise you on all areas to ensure you receive the strongest legal representation. 

Client Avoids Prison in Check Scam

We were able to make sure a client of ours did not go to prison for having the misfortune of being duped by a gang into cashing false checks for them - which resulted in a serious Federal Court indictment.  

The client was out of work (on disability) and wanted to make some extra, small and quick cash for rent and groceries for his kids.  He had no real criminal history, and we worked with the probation department to show that he had accepted responsibility for his actions and that he was just a unfortunate target in the scam (which was run by much bigger players). He walked to the bus stop to go home to his children that day.