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Author Archives: Site Administrator

Accident Report Privilege

By Steven G. Lavely |

Did you know if you’re in volved in an auto accident in Florida what you tell the police officer is a privileged communication? Just like other privileges under Florida law anything you say to the investigating officer cannot be used against you in a subsequent legal proceeding. The rationale for this privilege is to… Read More »

Client Poaching

By Steven G. Lavely |

Sorry to vent; but just had a client poached from me. The client was upset because I had to explain there was a cap on their recovery as the at fault party is protected by sovereign immunity. Client has fired me; folks don’t shoot the messenger. Would you rather have a lawyer that is… Read More »

Hire the Experts / They Have a New Vanity Number

By Steven G. Lavely |

Just to let our client’s know; if you need to remember our phone number and are away from your cell phone; just call 877 experts. That’s 1 877 397 3787. How can Lavely and Whyte use this vanity number? As board certified trial lawyers we are among the very small percentage of lawyers that… Read More »

First Appearances in Florida State Courts

By Steven G. Lavely |

Once you have been arrested in Florida, you will be brought before a judge or magistrate within 24 hours for a First Appearance. At the First Appearance, the judge will tell you what you are charged with and advise you of your Constitutional rights. If you are entitled to be released, the judge will… Read More »

What to do when encountering a police officer- some general guidelines.

By Steven G. Lavely |

While it is almost impossible to discuss all the different ways you can come into contact with a police officer, there are some very general guidelines to follow when you find yourself face-to-face with an officer. 1. First and foremost, stay calm. Take some deep breaths and relax (although I know this is easier… Read More »

Misleading Advertisements

By Steven G. Lavely |

Well, they’re at it again. The high volume advertisers are using a minuscule disclaimer ( fine print) to avoid misleading the public. Have you recently seen an advertisement on television where the lawyers are on the courthouse steps and reporters are clamoring for the lawyers’ attention? It could be misleading; according to the Florida… Read More »

Should I speak with the other insurance company?

By Steven G. Lavely |

Many times, very soon after an accident, the other driver’s insurance company will call you and ask you to give a recorded statement. Don’t do it without first speaking with an attorney at Lavely & Whyte, P.A. Unlike the lawyers at Lavely & Whyte, P.A., the other insurance company does not have your best… Read More »

What are Preemptory Challenges

By Steven G. Lavely |

Fortunately for our client’s we are Board Certified Trial Lawyers. As many of you know this is the highest achievement a Florida Laywer may obtain. Although thankfully for our clients they have rarely personally experienced a jury trial, Matt and Steve are experts. One of the things we discuss with client’s are preemptory challenges…. Read More »

Lawyer Suspension

By Steven G. Lavely |

Did you know there is a great resource to determine if your lawyer is or has been suspended? Visit Floridabar.org. and click on the find a lawyer icon. We @ Lavely & Whyte are proud of our reputation for ethical conduct. Others in our community cannot be so proud. Check us out or any… Read More »

We’ve Moved

By Steven G. Lavely |

Hopefully when traveling in Bradenton you’ve noticed the new building going up @ 527 Manatee Ave East. We’re just a couple of blocks east of Manatee Memorial Hospital on Manatee Ave. East. It’s a beautiful building with all the latest features to allow us to provide the best in legal services. We still have… Read More »