Achievers, Trends, News and More in the Legal Profession

Featured Attorneys, Legal News, Legal Resources April 30, 2020

Utilizing the Web for Education on Legal Matters

Months ago, when people needed legal advice, the answer was simple. Look up an attorney who practices whatever legal needs one might have, and stop by their office for a consultation. Some attorneys, like Mark Shalloway of Shalloway & Shalloway in West Palm Beach, go a step further and offer free legal seminars to his community monthly. This allows anyone in Palm Beach County to learn about applying for Medicaid, asset protection, avoiding the cost of probate, and many more topics that are covered under the wide umbrella that is elder law.

Are virtual meetings a waste of time? | Engagement & Performance ... — *Credit: HR Grapevine*

However, given our current public health crisis, holding seminars in person that are designed to facilitate large groups of people is not exactly feasible. Large gatherings are to be cancelled or postponed until a later date, which unfortunately cuts off these learning opportunities for potential clients who want this valuable, free resource before scheduling a consultation with an attorney.

8 Steps to Webinar Success — *Credit: Entrepreneur*

But some law firms fight to perpetuate the spread of knowledge. The staff at Shalloway & Shalloway still offer these seminars, but virtually. These seminars still take place monthly on three different days to accommodate the most people possible, but instead of being packed in a conference or meeting room, the “audience” can now attend via video or call. All an attendee has to do is reserve their free spot by calling (888) 366-0062. The next set of virtual seminars, or webinars, are May 12th, May 13th, and May 14th from two in the afternoon to four in the afternoon. Now, present and future clients can learn about all things elder law from the comfort and safety of their home.

Even legal conferences are still occurring in a webinar format. The annual Fundamentals of Special Needs Trusts Administration Event, an event hosted by Stetson University, took place virtually on April 24. Speakers at this event— including the likes of Attorney Robert Fleming, Chief Fiduciary Officer Gentry Byrnes, and Mark Shalloway— discussed administrative issues trustees, attorneys, financial planners and others involved in Special Needs Trust administration regularly face. It was a fantastic resource for attendees who wanted to learn more about the SECURE Act, examining the use of SNT, and much more. In this virtual setting, everyone was able to stay safe.

The internet and the technology legal professionals have at their disposal allows them to keep in contact with their current and future clients while keeping everyone safe. Not only can clients learn more about elder law and the surrounding areas of practice, but once they know they need an elder law attorney, they can contact the firm. Remote consultations via video of phone call get clients the same legal help they need from the attorneys they trust.

For more information on Mark Shalloway and his firm, call 561-686-6200, or fill out this contact form.

1400 Centrepark Blvd. Suite #600, West Palm Beach, FL 33401

Court Reporting Firms, Featured Firms April 15, 2020

One-Stop-Shop For Litigation Support in Las Vegas

by: Marion Crane

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Credit: Ryan Reporting

While Las Vegas doesn’t hold the title of “the city that never sleeps,” it certainly rings true. Las Vegas hustle and bustles at all hours of the day. With an abundance of restaurants, casinos, entertainment venues, hotels, and small businesses, Las Vegas has something for everyone.

This makes for a robust legal scene. Attorneys from all areas of practice make a home for themselves to serve the people of Las Vegas the justice they need. Cases here could be anything from workers compensation, to copyright, to criminal, and every area of practice in between. There isn’t one type of law that goes unrepresented in a city like this.

Municipal Court — *Credit: City of Las Vegas*

No matter where they practice, attorneys are busy. This is doubly true for those in Clarke County. And with their heavy workload, attorneys and paralegals can’t afford to shop around between litigation support firms in search of each and every one of the legal resources they need. They don’t want to have to schedule a court reporter from one firm, a conference room from another, and a videographer from a third. These days, attorneys want to find that court reporting firm that is a one-stop-shop for all their legal needs. Too many court reporting firms fall behind on this trend. As a result, they are unable provide attorneys the litigation support they need, which leads to a lull in business that is difficult to recover from.

Monice Campbell wanted to make a difference in the Las Vegas legal scene that other litigation support firms couldn’t match. She realized that what really makes a difference in a deposition “boils down to two real people: the person who answers your call to schedule the deposition and the court reporter seated in the deposition who is responsible for the record.”

As a result, Campbell developed Envision Legal to serve attorneys across Nevada with the quality litigation support they deserve. Envision’s responsive staff prides themselves on getting the job done right the first time on cases big or small, and deposition or trial. These Las Vegas court reporters have served on cases such as the Venetian Lein Claim Discovery, the Regional Justice Center, Hyatt v. CA Franchise Tax Board, and so many more. The firm proudly displays a number of cases they’ve served on online for potential clients to browse.

While their resume is impressive, part of what makes Envision Legal such a desirable court reporting firm to work with is the variety of services offered. Each and every one is approached with the same, meticulous attention, so clients can be confident they are scheduling a service that will exceed their needs. Their certified court reporters have national certifications and are recognized for their speed. When a client requests real-time depositions, they can expect their transcript streamed for the counsel to be at least 99% accurate. The firm’s certified legal videographers provide clients broadcast-quality video synchronized with the transcript of the legal proceedings. For clients in need of e-Discovery or Document review, they can expect hosted discovery on leading review platforms with managed review by multiple-degreed attorneys from JurisClerk’s team.

Thomas & Thomas Court Reporters and Certified Legal Video, LLC ... — *Credit: Thomas & Thomas*

With Envision Legal, attorneys don’t have to hop from firm to firm in search of the litigation support they need. This saves them valuable time to spend helping their client win their case. For many attorney’s Envision Legal’s name is like a seal of approval. Clients know that scheduling a service means speed, accuracy, and a dedication to customer service that many firms just do not possess.

“Envision Legal really goes above and beyond to make their clients feel like individuals with individualized needs,” Philip Gabelli, an expert from Sarasota, Florida says. “Many businesses in major cities like Las Vegas don’t have a grasp on customer service like that. Envision Legal is really something special.”

For more information on the firm, call (702) 805-4800, or email scheduling@envision.legal.

700 South 3rd Street, RMCM Building – 1st floor, Las Vegas, NV 89101

Eldercare Lawyers, Featured Attorneys March 31, 2020

How Attorneys are Adapting to the Coronavirus Crisis

by: Marion Crane

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The coronavirus, or COVID-19, is a highly contagious virus that is currently causing substantial problems for professionals across every industry in every corner of the world. In order to keep everyone safe, local and federal governments are taking initiative and urging the public to stay at home. This is the best way that individuals can keep themselves, and their loved ones, safe from the deadly virus. As long as the general public only leaves their home when absolutely necessary, we can curb the spread and return to our lives as soon as possible.

This causes problems for certain professionals. Retail stores are forced to close for the safety of the public and employees alike. Restaurants are opting to have take-out only, vastly cutting down their staff. Teachers have to give class online. The companies that have chosen to work remotely are navigating how to accomplish that. The same goes for legal professionals. Court reporters are opting to turn to remote depositions, allowing attorneys and their clients to proceed with their case from the comfort of their home.

Attorneys understand that just because a health crisis is occurring, that doesn’t mean that people won’t need legal representation. In fact, it is possible that they may need an attorney now more than ever. Professionals like elder law attorney Mark Shalloway in West Palm Beach gladly offer their clients consultations via phone-call or video. As long as a client has internet or cell service, these consultations can occur with the same efficiency as an in-person meeting.

“Now more than ever, it is important to have your legal and financial obligations secure and under control,” Mark Shalloway says.

Best Cell-Phone Plans for Seniors - Consumer Reports — *Credit: Consumer Reports*

The fields surrounding elder and special needs law are especially important in this time. Shalloway urges his clients to get all important documents in order. This could mean Medicaid planning, asset protection trusts, health care proxy, last will and testament, and so much more. For those who are concerned that they (or their family members) do not have all of these aspects in order, the staff at Shalloway & Shalloway are just a phone call away. No matter what, Shalloway’s staff has always been there for their clients. Now, more than ever, Shalloway’s attorneys desire to be there for the people who need them.

Many are concerned that even if they get these documents together with their attorney, it is not official because it cannot be notarized. In some states, including Florida, this problem is solved. By contacting an attorney through phone call or email, clients can have their important documents notarized through audio-video technology. Times are difficult, but thankfully we live in an age where we have the resources to overcome roadblocks our parents may not have been able to overcome in the past.

For those who feel unprepared and may not be ready to schedule an appointment with an elder law attorney, the staff at Shalloway & Shyalloway offers virtual seminars and podcasts. These informative listenings are designed to not only educate clients and the community, but to divert attention to another topic for a while. Stream these seminars on shalloway.com.

Throughout all the uncertainties we face today, it is crucial to keep an open mind and open heart. Check in on your neighbors, especially the elderly and those with special needs, to make sure they are all right and have supplies and food that they need, but may be unable to get. Know that, if we all work together (but separately) this can and will be over soon. Keep a close eye on the updates given by the Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization. Incorporate this advice into your daily life, stay healthy, stay safe, and stay optimistic.

For more information, call (561) 686-6200 or fill out this contact form.

1400 Centrepark Blvd., Suite #600, West Palm Beach, FL 33401

Court Reporting Firms, Featured Firms March 24, 2020

Ryan Reporting’s Response to COVID-19

by: Marion Crane

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Client and employee health and safety is of the utmost importance to the staff at Ryan Reporting. As the situation surrounding the coronavirus, or COVID-19, rapidly changes, the staff at Ryan Reporting closely follows the updates provided by the professionals at the World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and actively employs their advice. Ryan Reporting’s offices have been, and always will be pristine, but the firm now takes further measure to ensure proper sanitation and disinfection.

Image result for disinfection — *Credit: NYSUT*

Businesses across Florida have been shutting down and instructing employees to work from home in hopes of curbing the spread of the virus. The staff at Ryan Reporting understands that many attorneys may not want to leave home to keep themselves, and their families, safe, but they still want to proceed with their cases. The discourse of law coming to a standstill is difficult for attorneys and their clients alike.

To help combat that problem, Ryan Reporting proudly offers remote deposition and videoconferencing services. By scheduling a remote deposition service, attorneys can meet with their legal teams from the comfort of their home.

Ryan Reporting offers the latest and greatest technology that the world of law has to offer. With their quality audio and visual equipment, clients will see and hear everything said and done as though it was in person. When an attorney schedules a remote court reporter, they can expect the most accurate transcript possible.

For more information on Ryan Reporting’s service, call (321) 636-4450, email info@ryanreporting.com , or fill out this contact form.

1670 South Fiske Blvd, Rockledge, Florida 32955

Court Reporting Firms October 8, 2019

Staying Afloat in the Court Reporting World

by: Marion Crane

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The world of court reporting isn’t what it once was. As technology has grown, adapted, and changed, so have the needs of attorneys. A court reporter who is timely, effective, and accurate is highly important, of course, but that isn’t all attorneys need. These days, attorneys expect far more than what was previously expected of their litigation service, and court reporting firms who don’t incorporate these needs into their practices sink.

What are these key factors?

Image result for legal — *Credit: Department of State Travel*

Court reporting firms should offer a wide variety of litigation services. Videography has become a staple of the court reporting world, but successful firms offer realtime reporting, subpoena services, conference rooms and so much more. They offer 24/7 online scheduling for busy attorneys. These are the bare bones of what court reporting firms need to offer to be competitive in this climate.

So when a court reporting firm has been in business for over 40 years, clients can be confident that the company has cracked the code of what works in the legal world. In Miami, there are few litigation support services that have stood the test of time like Laws Reporting. Since 1976, Laws Reporting has served as the premiere location for court reporting, and other legal services, in South Florida. No case size is too intimidating or too small—after decades of work, nothing surprises the staff at Laws.

“A lot of businesses in big cities miss the mark for what their clients need,” Jasel Patel, CEO of NGOTechnologies says. “Laws Reporting has found that sweet spot between big city expectations, and small city personalization and standard of customer service. They are truly a force to be reckoned with.”

These Miami court reporters check off each and every box that makes a great court reporting firm. The staff is well known for their speed, accuracy, and effectiveness. When it comes to getting a clearer transcript, attorneys in South Florida won’t find one. But Laws Reporting is more than just a stellar court reporting firm—they are a full-service litigation firm. They offer the services attorneys have come to expect along with well over a dozen more. With Laws Reporting, attorneys and paralegals can schedule translators, streaming services, and aids of execution. That is just the tip of the iceberg.

The staff at Laws understand how important it is to have a court reporting firm you can trust wherever you are. Their connection to the National Network Reporting Company allows them to extend their services worldwide, but Laws has taken a more personal approach in South Florida. South Florida clients don’t have to drive to Miami or Fort Lauderdale to meet with Laws’ staff—there is likely a satellite office near them. From Fort Pierce all the way to Key West, attorneys can pop into an office just minutes from their own to chat with the qualified staff at Laws Reporting.

It is difficult for any business to stay open for 40 years. In a field as tumultuous and ever-changing as law, this is 10 times more difficult. Laws Reporting has unlocked the secret that keeps their firm alive, but it isn’t as mind-blowing as one may think: Laws listens to their clients. They take their clients’ needs into account, and apply them to business. It really is that simple. Their client-first approach brings attorneys and paralegals back time and time again.

For more information on Laws Reporting, call (954) 581-4010, email laws@lawsreporting.com, or visit their offices.

7805 S.W. 6th Court Suite 51, Plantation, FL 33324

Court Reporting Firms September 19, 2019

What Makes Hanna Reporting’s Realtime Reporters Special?

by: Marion Crane

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Court reporting and realtime reporting are sisters, not twins. Both involve recording the legal proceedings of a deposition or trial, but that is where the similarities stop.

Realtime reporters are made to be the true peak of speed and accuracy. As the name suggests, realtime reporting involves producing a legible transcript in real time, most often so the text can be displayed on another device nearly instantaneously. This allows the judge, the jury, and other legal professionals to easily follow along with who said what right as it is said.

Most court reporting firms offer realtime reporting services. It has more or less become a staple in the industry and has become more readily called upon than other forms of court reporting. It takes a special kind of professional to execute realtime reporting to the standard it should be, and it takes a special type of firm to bring together these individuals.

In Houston, Texas, Hanna & Hanna Certified Court Reporting & Video Specialists have found that formula. Regularly known as Hanna Reporting, the firm has worked cases big and small across the great state of Texas. Their variety of litigation services allows Hanna Reporting to serve the needs of their clients to the fullest extent.

“There aren’t better court reporters in Houston,” Julie Rehberg of Omaha, Nebraska says. “They work around the clock to make sure their clients have everything they need when they need it.”

Hanna Reporting encourages their clients to save time and money by booking a realtime reporter for their deposition or trial, despite it being one of the most difficult services they offer. Why? Because they know that, in the long run, realtime reporting will benefit their clients, which is what truly matters to these Houston court reporters.

When attorneys and paralegals book a realtime reporting service with Hanna Reporting, they can expect to have the testimony in front of them right away. This allows them to highlight areas that may need cross-examination. When necessary Hanna’s Houston court reporters will provide their clients laptops, so that they can be confident the hookup between stentotype and laptop works every time.

It is comforting for many to know Hanna’s staff push through further education to be the best reporter possible. Their realtime professionals are Certified Realtime Reporters, Certified Livenote Reporters, and Certified Live Deposition reporters. With such a variety, clients know they’ve booked the best of the best.

For more information, call (713) 840-8484, fill out this contact form, or visit their offices. In case of an emergency or last-minute booking after hours, email afterhours@hannareporting.com, and you will receive a prompt call or email that confirms the service.

8582 Katy Fwy, Houston, TX 77024

Eldercare Lawyers, Featured Attorneys April 4, 2019

Mark Shalloway’s Dedication and Passion for His Work

by: Marion Crane

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Credit: NY Lawyers Guide

For some, 30 years of work at a particular job—or even in a particular field—is an unimaginable feat. How could someone work the same job day in and day out, and still be passionate about their work? For West Palm Beach elder law attorney, Mark Shalloway, it’s easy: passion.

From a young age, Mark Shalloway was fascinated by the world of law. Through watching his father practice, he discovered how the work of attorneys can help through such a diverse number of fields. He always knew he wanted to be social engaged. While continuing his education, a group of panelists came to one of his classes in search of people who were willing to serve as advocates for elder communities.

It was there he realized just how unfairly priced care at these facilities often are. He noticed how the middle class struggled to keep up with the expenses many homes charge, and knew that wasn’t right.

“Elder care lawyers look into these problems to find ways to benefit others,” Mark Shalloway says. “That is the heart and soul of elder law.”

When Shalloway decided he found his calling, the field of elder law was still growing. It started with a focus on wills and trusts, but as time went on, shifted in include incapacitation, guardianship, and Medicaid. Shalloway served in the charter class of board certified elder law attorneys by the Florida Bar, and has continued to be a trailblazer ever since.

Shalloway has served as member, chairman, and president of a number of organizations dedicated to protecting and serving the elder community. Locally, Mark Shalloway is the founding chairperson of the Palm Beach County Bar Association Elder Law Committee. On a state level, he served as president of the Academy of Florida Elder Law Attorneys. Nationally, Shalloway served as president of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA). These are just three of his many achievements.

But title isn’t everything. What keeps a man fighting for the rights of others is a dedication to his work. Shalloway and his staff of outstanding elder law attorneys each wish to see the elder community receive the respect and care the deserve. No matter how big or small a case, that staff at Shalloway & Shalloway will do everything in their power to ensure their clients’ needs are met, because at the end of the day, it is client satisfaction that is most important to these professionals.

For more information about Mark Shalloway and his firm, call (561) 686-6200 or visit the Shalloway & Shalloway office.

1400 Centrepark Blvd, Suite #600, West Palm Beach, FL 33401

Court Reporting Firms March 6, 2019

Gore Brothers Announce Tips for Videoconferences

by: Marion Crane

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Credit: Carey On

(Baltimore, Maryland) March 6, 2019

Gore Brothers, a court reporting firm based in the Baltimore area, is pleased to announce their tips for a successful videoconference. These tips allow attorneys and their witnesses to know exact what to do—or what not to do—in order to look professional and put together. From lighting to what you should wear, Gore Brothers has sound advice for every aspect of videoconferencing.

In the world of law, videoconferencing has become an incredibly important aspect of business. Sometimes, it’s difficult for a legal team to get together and discuss the happenings of a case—especially when a legal team is spread out. Videoconferencing allows teams to meet face to face without having to spend an excessive amount of time and money on travel.

“Videoconferencing makes communicating with a team ten times easier,” Jacob Blumenfrucht of New York says. “Emails can be easily misconstrued, and it can be difficult or organize conference calls. Videoconferencing allows everyone to actively engage with one another, so meetings run much more smoothly.”

For over 60 years, Gore Brothers have provided attorneys and paralegals in Washington D.C., Maryland, and the Virginia area with quality court reporting. Clients know that, no matter their area of practice, Gore Brothers has specialists that can be of assistance to them. As the legal world has changed, so has their offered services, and the Baltimore court reporters have expanded their reach to include videography, videoconferencing, and a wide array of litigation services.

For more information about Gore Brothers, call (410) 837-3027, email reporter@gorebrothers.com, or visit one of their office locations.

36 South Charles Street, Suite 2002, Baltimore, MD 21201

Court Reporting Firms February 26, 2019

The Key to a Successful Court Reporting Firm

by: Marion Crane

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Credit: Travel + Leisure

When attorneys and paralegals in the Cleveland area need a court reporting service, they don’t pitter-patter between court reporting firms. For the best professionals, only one firm comes to mind: Cady Reporting. For over 40 years, Cady Reporting has served the Cleveland area with their wide variety of court reporting specialists and litigation services. They are well known for their speed and accuracy—firm president, Charles (Chuck) Cady has won a number of awards for just that—but it’s their customer service that truly sets them apart from the rest.

What is it about their customer service that changes the game? Is it responsiveness? Surely, acting as a highly attentive firm would garner attention. While that is certainly part of the equation, it isn’t what makes or breaks them. It is the fact that they treat their clients—attorneys and paralegals on big or small cases—with an unparalleled level of respect. The staff knows the names of their clients, and what’s more, wants the best for their case. Clients aren’t just numbers to justify the means. Clients are almost like family.

“Like so many services, [court reporting] can become easy to be commoditized,” Chuck Cady says on the firm’s success. “I think the best way to stand out and that we stand out [in] is being pleasant to work with and making people feel that we’ll happily go the extra mile to take care of their needs.”

No one wants to feel as though their requests are a burden. The staff at Cady Reporting would never treat their clients in such a fashion. Whatever their clients need, Cady Reporting’s staff is happy to deliver, because this isn’t just a job to them. These Cleveland court reporters are dedicated to their work, and that dedication shows throughout each and every aspect of the business.

“Dedicated court reporters express a real magic in their work that other court reporters can’t quite capture,” Brandon Bell, a legal expert from Oak Park, Illinois, says. “They don’t achieve the same level of accuracy, and they don’t retain clients. This is something the staff at Cady Reporting never has to worry about.”

For attorneys who know the industry, in Cleveland, Ohio, the only court reporting firm to turn to is Cady Reporting.

To schedule a service with Cleveland’s best, call 888.624.2239, email cadystaff@cadyreporting.com, or visit their offices.

Western Reserve Building, 1468 West 9th Street, Suite 440, Cleveland, Ohio 44113

Eldercare Lawyers, Featured Attorneys, Featured Firms January 29, 2019

Mark Shalloway and His Passion for Educating the People

by: Marion Crane

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Credit: Cordell Planning Partners

In West Palm Beach, there is one attorney clients know to turn to for all their estate planning, guardianship, and elder care needs. For nearly 30 years, Mark Shalloway has been the face of elder law. His passion, respect, and dedication to his work sets him apart from peers. Where many attorneys simply look to numbers for a measure of success, Mark Shalloway and his staff at his firm, Shalloway & Shalloway, look to their clients’ results.

Shalloway and his staff have been referred to as “lifesavers” with the ability to turn a situation from “desperate to hopeful.” The patient staff will see through every single case, no matter how big or small, to the end. In the golden hour of one’s life, one should not have to worry if their retirement and family can be sustained. Shalloway’s elder law attorneys makes turns the worry from a burden into an easy to swallow pill.

It really makes a difference when clients can tell their attorney wants the best for them,” Brandon Bell, a legal consultant in Illinois, says. “In such a trying time in one’s life, it is crucial they feel supported. Mark Shalloway and his staff provide clients with that support they crave, as well as the results they need.”

But Mark Shalloway does more to help than providing legal solace—he goes out into the world to make a difference. Save serving as the President of the Academy of Florida Elder Law Attorneys, president of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA), and other positions of leadership within the elder law community, Shalloway has made it his mission to educate others on his area of practice. He gives free, monthly seminars on estate planning. He works as an Adjunct Faculty member at Palm Beach Community College and a frequent lecturer at Stetson College of Law—namely on special needs trusts.

*Shalloway, elder law attorneys, and members of JAG Corps.*

This past December, Mr. Shalloway did just that. On behalf of Stetson College, Shalloway traveled to Fort Stewart in Savannah, Georgia to deliver a talk on the wide array of information concerning elder law—from wills and trusts, to insurance, and everything in between. Alongside him was Professor Rebecca Morgan, a head professor at Stetson, and a number of elder law attorneys from across the nation.

These figureheads in elder law delivered a talk on elder and special needs law to the JAG corps stationed there. Along with the informative session on medicare and more, Shalloway and his cohorts presented a Certificate of Appreciation to John Webster—a staff judge advocate at the third infantry division and Fort Stewart.

A major part of my mission as an elder and special needs care attorney is educating the public on their options on everything from health insurance to tax liabilities,” Mark Shalloway says. “My firm is deeply committed to philanthropy within our community and to helping the families of military personnel plan for their lives once their careers reach a culmination.”

Mark Shalloway doesn’t have to continuously go the extra miles he travels to help others, but he does. It is an aspect of his work Shalloway has deemed important, because he cares about more than making a paycheck—he truly cares about the lives of others, clients or not. It is a formidable trait to carry, especially when it comes to elder law.

For more information on Mark Shalloway and his firm, call (561) 686-6200, fill out their contact form, or visit their offices.