Florida

Unlocking Savings: Florida Homeowners Urged to Challenge Property Tax Assessments Before Time Runs Out

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TAMPA, Fla. — As summer approaches, residents across Florida are bracing for property tax assessments arriving in their mailboxes. Many homeowners believe these assessments are set in stone, but a local attorney encourages them to explore their options for contesting these figures. Patrick Risch, who oversees the real estate litigation division at Hill Ward Henderson, advises property owners that their assessed value is not definitive. He points out that the assessment, ultimately, reflects an opinion shaped by market conditions and can sometimes be influenced by automated systems. “Assessments are based on market evidence, but remember, … Read more

Judge Weighs Environmental Impact of Controversial Florida Detention Center: "Alligator Alcatraz" in Legal Crosshairs

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MIAMI — A federal judge is currently weighing arguments regarding the future of an immigration detention center under construction in the Florida Everglades, a project criticized for allegedly failing to adhere to environmental regulations. Dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz,” the facility’s development has sparked controversy among environmental advocates and the Miccosukee Tribe, who argue that it poses a significant threat to vulnerable wetlands. On Wednesday, environmental groups and the tribe urged U.S. District Judge Kathleen Williams to issue a preliminary injunction to cease construction and operations at the site. They contend that the center endangers protected wildlife … Read more

Florida Appeals Court Overturns $8.1 Million Verdict Against R.J. Reynolds, Calls for New Trial Amid Jury Instruction Controversy

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Miami, Fla. — A recent decision by Florida’s Third District Court of Appeal has significant implications for a case against R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., reversing an $8.1 million jury award. The court determined that the initial trial contained errors that warrant a new examination of the evidence on strict liability and negligence. During the previous trial, instructions provided to the jury included findings against R.J. Reynolds that had already been dismissed during the summary judgment phase. This prompted the appellate court to take action, resulting in the case being sent back for a fresh trial. … Read more

Florida Jury Delivers $329 Million Verdict in Landmark Tesla Autopilot Accident Case

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Tampa, Florida — A jury has awarded $329 million in damages to the family of a man who died in a crash involving a Tesla on Autopilot. The case, which concluded in a Hillsborough County court, underscores growing concerns around the safety and reliability of autonomous driving features. The lawsuit was initiated by the family of William B. Smith, who died in 2019 when his Tesla Model 3 collided with a tow truck while operating under the company’s advanced driver-assistance system, known as Autopilot. The family contended that Tesla was negligent in designing and selling … Read more