WE HOLD ACCOUNTABLE THOSE WHO HURT OTHERS.®
OUR MISSION STATEMENT
When the unforeseen becomes a reality, our mission is to provide hope, compassion, and guidance as your partners in recovery.
OUR CORE VALUES
The Gold Standard
We strive for excellence in everything we do. We have resources to fight the insurance companies. We run a wellorganized and stable practice that has given back to the community for more than 20 years.
Respect
We value our clients’ time, respond to their needs, and diligently pursue their case. We support our co-workers, enjoy working together, and celebrate the successes of our teams.
Integrity
We conduct ourselves with professionalism in the office and in the community. We have strong moral principles. We are trustworthy and ethical.
Innovation
We’ve reinvented the practice of personal injury law. We empower our team to develop new ways to serve our clients. We pursue cutting-edge technologies to get the best results.
Compassion
We are sensitive to the trauma our clients have suffered, which drives our commitment to help them recover. We provide support during a difficult time. We practice compassion with our clients, our team, and our community.
Success
We have a strong record of winning. Our clients benefit due to our dynamic working environment and dedicated, long-term employees. Our leaders support and develop our teams.
Why I Became an Attorney: My Mother’s Path
Becoming an attorney was more than a career choice for me—it was a calling inspired by the remarkable example set by my mother, Sondra Goldenfarb. As the first female law professor at Harvard Law School, she broke barriers and left a legacy that continues to influence me every day. Her dedication to justice, her clients, and the transformative power of the law inspired me to follow in her footsteps and forge my own path in the legal profession.
Growing up in Clearwater, Florida, I was immersed in the world of law from an early age. Our home was often filled with the buzz of legal debates, discussions about cases and politics, and the principles of fairness and equality. My mother’s passion for the law was infectious. She believed deeply in its capacity to shape a better society and worked tirelessly to use it as a tool for advancing justice. Watching her juggle her groundbreaking career while raising a family gave me a firsthand look at what it meant to truly believe in the power of your work. She got home at 5:00 every day, to make sure she had time to cook dinner for our family.
Her position at Harvard Law in the 1960s was a testament to her resilience and determination. In an era when women faced significant obstacles in academia and the legal profession, she carved out a space for herself and opened doors for others. I have a framed, black and white picture in my office of my mom, in the faculty photo, surrounded by more than 100 men. In the photo next to her is former Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer. It is quite an amazing photograph. See if you can spot her in the second row from the top.
As a child, I often visited her office, where I would watch her prepare her cases or dive into complex legal research. Even then, I could sense the weight of her work and the trail she was blazing. But her influence extended far beyond her professional
achievements. She lived her life with integrity, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to fairness and women’s rights. She taught me that the law isn’t just about statutes and courtrooms—it’s about people. Every case represents a story, a conflict, or a cry for justice. This sense of justice led me to desire to fight insurance companies to make sure they are forced to pay claims fairly and compensate my clients adequately.
I knew I wanted to be a lawyer when I went with my mother to Tallahassee when I was 12 years old. I watched her argue an appeal in front of the Florida Supreme Court. Watching her navigate difficult questions from the Justices was a remarkable experience for a young boy. I was hooked - law was my calling. Ultimately, law school was both challenging and rewarding, and I often found myself reflecting on the lessons my mother had taught me. Her example motivated me to persevere through the late nights and rigorous coursework. It also reminded me that being an attorney is more than a profession—it’s a privilege and a responsibility.
Today, 22 years after I founded GOLDLAW, I strive to embody the values my mother instilled in me. I believe I have taken those values one step further, in creating a law firm where I treat my employees with the same compassion and sense of fairness that with which my mother treated her clients. As I spend most of my time now dealing with the business of GOLDLAW, I have concluded that creating a well-run and stable business, and teaching and coaching other lawyers how to do the same, satisfies the core values that my mother taught me.
My mother passed away from lung cancer about 15 years ago. I am confident that, if she were alive today, she would believe that my current career reflects the remarkable path she forged. It was an honor to have such an inspiring figure in my life.
Craig M. Goldenfarb, Esq. Founder / CEO
Giving Thanks, GOLDLAW Style!
For Thanksgiving, we showed our gratitude by giving THREE lucky winners a FREE turkey and a $100 gift card to help make their holiday extra special! We’re honored to give back to our community and hope our winners enjoyed a Thanksgiving to remember. Pictured here is one of our lucky winners! Seeing these smiles makes giving back even more meaningful.
GOLDLAW GIVES Winterfest
We believe in amplifying the voices of those who cannot speak for themselves and driving meaningful change where it’s needed most. That’s why we were honored to take part in Winterfest, a powerful event dedicated to supporting foster children, advocating for their rights, and breaking cycles of abuse. Winterfest reflects the core values that guide us— compassion, action, and unwavering support—both in our community and for our clients.
GOLDLAW GIVES
Dia de Los Muertos
(Day of the Dead)
GOLDLAW was proud to support Día de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) in Lake Worth Beach. This free community event celebrated life and remembrance with arts and craft vendors, food, live art, a festive procession, and free kids’ activities like face painting. Guests—including pets—also competed in the “Best Dressed” contest for prizes. We were excited to be part of this vibrant cultural tradition!
42nd
Annual Boys & Girls Club Chili Cook-Off
GOLDLAW was honored to sponsor the Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Lucie County’s Annual Chili Cook-Off— the longest-running, most exciting, and familyfriendly event on the Treasure Coast! This incredible event brought the community together for a day filled with delicious flavors, lively entertainment, and nonstop fun. It was a fantastic day supporting a great cause, and we’re proud to be part of it!
5-STAR HAPPY CLIENTS REVIEWS
REVIEWS
RUEBEN RIFFIN
Imagine getting ready to start a new job while being in a Ph.D. program and being involved in a car crash at no fault of your own on the deadliest stretch of highway in America the dreaded I95 South. Not only was this a car crash that ended up with a totaled vehicle but having fractures in your spine , pinched nerves in your arm and temporary loss of movement in said arm. This was absolutely one of the worst times I have ever had in my life and Jorge and Madeline from GOLDLAW really took care of everything. This is not a review; this is a testimony of good people using their talent, education and compassion to serve in time of dire need.
JAMES HARRIS
I am very blessed to have Craig Goldenfarb and his staff representing my belated son. Lani is always very understanding, respectful, and always returns my calls within 24 hours or less. The company makes you feel like family. Lani always keeps me updated on everything and her knowledge of court procedures is outstanding. The company is very professional and works very hard for their clients. I strongly recommend this company. If I could give 6 stars, I would. UPDATE: Even after my case was over, the company and its staff continued to help me for years. They truly do care about their clients from the heart.
REVIEW US ON GOOGLE
How to submit?
Share your experience publicly with the GOLDLAW team! You can let others know that you had a great experience with our law firm by leaving us an online review. Here’s how to do it:
You need to have a Google or Gmail account to post the review. To open an account, visit www.gmail.com, and just follow the instructions! Once you have created your account, it’s easy!
From Your Browser
1. Log into your Google or Gmail account, and search Google.com for the business you want to review (in this case, GOLDLAW).
2. Find the reviews area (next to the star rating in the search results, or under the business name in the sidebar in Google search). Click on the blue font that says “WRITE A REVIEW.”
3. Rate from 1 to 5 stars (the more stars indicates a more positive experience), then write about your experience. Click “POST” when you are done.
From the Google Maps App
1. In the Google Maps app on your phone, search for GOLDLAW.
2. Google Maps will return search results with a map that includes a banner at the bottom about GOLDLAW. Click that banner.
3. Scroll down in the window that pops up until you get to the Reviews section. You will see “five stars” unpopulated with our profile picture above them. Click on the number of stars you want to leave for GOLDLAW, then write about your experience.
4. Click “POST” to leave the review.
LAURA DEJESUS
Usually, I don’t leave reviews, but I needed to take time to express how thankful I am with GOLDLAW, especially with Diana Ramirez. The nightmare I had with a situation that involved my little daughter was stressful, but Diana helped so much in the process. Diana also speaks Spanish and was able to talk with some of my family members that don’t speak English. All the staff are amazing and kind. 100% recommended. Thanks again!
NEGLIGENT SECURITY LAW
NEGLIGENT SECURITY is a legal area within premises liability law that holds property owners, landlords, and businesses responsible for failing to provide adequate security measures to protect visitors, tenants, or customers from foreseeable crimes. This type of claim typically arises when an individual is injured due to criminal activity—such as assaults, robberies, or shootings—that could have been prevented with reasonable security precautions.
Key Elements of a Negligent Security Claim
To establish a negligent security case, the Plaintiff must generally prove:
1. Duty of Care – The property owner or manager had a legal duty to provide reasonable security measures.
2. Breach of Duty – The owner failed to take reasonable steps to prevent foreseeable criminal activity (e.g., lack of security cameras, poor lighting, broken locks, lack of security personnel).
3. Foreseeability – The crime was reasonably foreseeable, often demonstrated by prior incidents in the area or on the property.
4. Causation – The lack of security directly contributed to the victim’s harm.
5. Damages – The victim suffered physical, emotional, or financial harm as a result of the attack.
Common Locations for Negligent Security Cases
• Apartment complexes Hotels and motels
• Shopping malls and retail stores
• Parking lots and garages
• Bars and nightclubs
• Schools and universities
• Hospitals and nursing homes
• Public transportation stations
Examples of Negligent Security
• Failure to install or maintain security cameras in high-crime areas
• Inadequate lighting in parking lots or hallways
• Lack of security personnel in locations with a known history of crime
• Broken or malfunctioning locks on doors and gates
• Failing to respond to previous security threats or crimes on the premises
Legal Consequences
Victims of negligent security incidents can file lawsuits to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other damages.
Negligent security law plays a critical role in holding property owners accountable and encouraging safer environments for the public.
UNSAFE APARTMENTS
What Landlords Won’t Tell You
WHEN RENTING AN APARTMENT, most people focus on location, rent, and amenities—but security is just as important. Landlords are legally responsible for maintaining safe premises. When they fail, tenants face risks like theft, assault, and violent crimes.
What Is Negligent Security?
Negligent security occurs when landlords fail to implement reasonable safety measures, leading to preventable harm. Common issues include:
• Broken locks or gates
• Poor lighting in parking lots, hallways, or stairwells
• Non-functioning security cameras
• Failure to conduct background checks on staff
• Ignoring reports of crime or suspicious activity
Landlords can be held liable if tenants or visitors are harmed due to their negligence.
Security Features to Check Before Renting
Prioritize safety when choosing an apartment by evaluating:
1. Secure Entry Points
Do doors require a key, code, or fob?
Are doors and windows properly locked?
2. Adequate Lighting
Are parking lots, hallways, and stairwells well-lit?
Are burned-out bulbs quickly replaced?
3. Working Security Cameras
Are cameras installed in key areas?
Do they appear operational?
4. Restricted Access
Is the complex gated or fenced?
Are gates functional and monitored?
5. On-Site Security or Responsive Management
Are security personnel present?
Does management respond to safety concerns?
6. Background Checks for Tenants & Staff
Are new tenants and staff screened properly?
7. Crime History in the Area
Research local crime rates.
Ask current tenants about any safety concerns.
What to Do If You Have Security Concerns
Report issues to management in writing. Document problems with photos and records. If a crime occurs, file a police report and notify property management. Seek legal advice if negligent security leads to harm.
Final Thoughts
Your apartment or condominium should be a safe place. If landlords fail to provide for the safety of their tenants, the tenants must advocate for their safety. If you notice risks, speak up - your wellbeing depends on it.
IS YOUR VACATION PLACING YOU IN DANGER?
The Truth About Negligent Security in Hotels & Airbnbs
WHEN BOOKING A HOTEL or vacation rental, guests expect safety—but poor security can put them at risk of assault, robbery, or worse. Property owners and rental platforms have a duty to protect visitors, but when they fail, victims may suffer life-altering consequences.
What Is Negligent Security?
Negligent security occurs when hotels or rental hosts fail to take reasonable steps to prevent foreseeable crimes. This includes:
• Faulty or Missing Door Locks – Weak locks or broken entry systems invite intruders. Poor Lighting – Dark hallways, stairwells, and parking areas create opportunities for crime.
• Lack of Security Cameras – Unmonitored common areas leave guests vulnerable.
• No On-Site Security – High-risk locations may require trained security personnel.
• Ignoring Past Crimes – If a property has a history of break-ins or assaults, management must act.
Hotels vs. Vacation Rentals: Who’s at Risk?
• Hotels & Resorts: These properties have a legal duty to secure rooms, common areas, and entrances. If they ignore risks, they can be held liable.
• Airbnb & Vacation Rentals: Private rentals often lack the security standards of hotels. Many have weak locks, unmonitored entry points, and no surveillance, making them easy targets.
Who Is Liable for Negligent Security?
• Hotels & Resorts – If management fails to address safety risks.
• Vacation Rental Owners – If they don’t provide secure locks or disclose crime risks.
• Airbnb/Vrbo (in some cases) – If they allow unsafe listings.
What Victims Can Do
If you’re harmed due to negligent security, you may be entitled to compensation for:
• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Emotional distress
• Pain and suffering
Final Thoughts
Hotels and vacation rentals must protect guests. If they fail, victims have legal options. Your safety isn’t optional—demand better, and don’t stay silent.
HUMAN TRAFFICKING AND NEGLIGENT SECURITY IN HOTELS
A Hidden Crisis
HOTELS ARE A MAJOR HUB for human trafficking, where victims—many of them women and children—are exploited behind closed doors. Criminals take advantage of weak security, anonymity, and poor staff oversight to operate unchecked. When hotels fail to prevent trafficking, they can be held legally responsible under negligent security laws.
How Hotels Enable Human Trafficking
• Easy, Anonymous Access – Cash payments and false IDs make check-ins untraceable.
• Lack of Staff Training – Employees fail to recognize or report warning signs.
• Poor Surveillance – Unmonitored hallways, parking lots, and frequent short-term rentals provide cover.
• Ignoring Red Flags – Management dismisses guest complaints about suspicious activity.
Signs of Trafficking in Hotels
• Guests checking in with no luggage or personal items
• Frequent requests for new towels and sheets with no housekeeping
• Young individuals appearing fearful, malnourished, or avoiding eye contact
• Multiple men entering and leaving a room at all hours
• Guests unable to speak freely, controlled by another person
Legal Action Against Hotels
Hotels that ignore trafficking risks can be sued for:
• Physical & emotional trauma Medical expenses
• Loss of income
• Pain & suffering
Lawsuits not only compensate victims, but encourage hotels to implement better security policies.
Final
Thoughts
Human trafficking thrives when hotels turn a blind eye. Holding businesses accountable and demanding stronger security can help fight this crisis and protect victims. If you see something, say something—your actions could save a life.
THE NEW LAW IN FLORIDA
A Game Changer for Negligent Security Laws— or a Free Pass for Property Owners?
IN 2023, Florida enacted House Bill 837 (HB 837), introducing significant reforms to the state’s tort laws, particularly affecting negligent security claims against property owners. This legislation aims to reduce liability for property owners by establishing a “presumption against liability” when specific security measures are implemented.
Key Provisions of HB 837:
1. Presumption Against Liability: Property owners and operators of multifamily residential properties (e.g., apartments, townhouses, condominiums with at least five units) can attain a presumption against liability for third-party criminal acts if they implement certain security measures.
2. Required Security Measures: To benefit from this presumption, property owners must: Install Security Cameras: Place cameras at entry and exit points, retaining footage for at least 30 days.
Enhance Lighting: Ensure adequate illumination in parking lots, walkways, laundry rooms, common areas, and porches from dusk until dawn.
Upgrade Locks: Equip dwelling unit doors with one-inch deadbolt locks and secure all windows and sliding doors.
Secure Pool Areas: Maintain locked gates with key or fob access for pool enclosures. Provide Door Viewers: Install peepholes or door viewers on unit doors lacking adjacent windows.
Conduct Security Assessments: By January 1, 2025, complete a crime prevention assessment by law enforcement or a certified Florida Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) practitioner and remain in substantial compliance. Employee Training: By January 1, 2025, provide crime deterrence and safety training to current employees and, subsequently, to new hires within 60 days.
3. Apportionment of Fault: The law allows juries to consider the fault of all parties contributing to an injury, including the criminal actor, potentially reducing the property owner’s liability proportionally.
These reforms are designed to incentivize property owners to adopt proactive security measures, thereby enhancing safety for residents and visitors. By complying with HB 837’s requirements, property owners can significantly mitigate their liability exposure in negligent security cases.
THE SECOND PATH TO JUSTICE
When the Criminal Justice System Fails to Give Justice to a Victim of a Crime, GOLDLAW Can Help Victims Obtain Financial Compensation
WHEN A PROPERTY owners fail to provide adequate security, victims of violent crimes—such as assaults, robberies, or human trafficking—they face devastating consequences. Justice extends beyond criminal prosecution; it includes holding negligent property owners accountable through financial compensation. This second path ensures victims receive the financial support they need to recover and rebuild.
Understanding
Negligent Security Liability
Property owners—whether managing apartments, hotels, malls, or parking garages—must maintain a reasonably safe environment. When they neglect security measures like lighting, surveillance, or access control, they can be held liable for foreseeable crimes on their property.
Types of Compensation Available
Victims may recover damages for:
• Medical Expenses – Emergency care, surgeries, therapy, and counseling
• Lost Wages & Future Earnings – Missed work, reduced earning capacity
• Pain & Suffering – Physical pain, PTSD, anxiety, depression Property Damage & Loss – Stolen/damaged belongings, repair costs
• Punitive Damages – In cases of gross negligence, additional compensation to deter future misconduct
Justice Through Compensation
Holding property owners accountable ensures victims aren’t left with the financial burden of negligence. Seeking compensation is not just about legal consequences—it’s about providing victims with the means to heal, regain stability, and move forward.
Seven Figure Attorney Summit
Transforming Your Law Firm into a Business: How to Find Your Happily Ever After
APRIL 23-25, 2025
WYNDHAM
GRAND IN ORLANDO,
The 8th Annual Seven Figure Attorney Summit, created by GOLDLAW CEO & Founder, Craig Goldenfarb, is coming to the Wyndham Grand in Orlando, Florida. Craig has been organizing this event for eight years, and it continues to be the premier gathering for lawyers and their staff.
Our 1.5-day event is jam-packed with practical action steps and strategies you can implement now to help you take your law firm’s performance to new heights. At the Summit, you’ll learn Craig’s proven formulas for profitable law firm success and hear from the firm’s Executive Team.
Growing a successful law firm isn’t a solo endeavor—it takes a strong, aligned team. This event will equip you with the strategies and systems needed to scale, but implementation is key—and that starts with your people. That’s why we strongly encourage you to bring at least one key team member who will help put these insights into action.
FLORIDA
REGISTRATION IS ONLY $1,499 and includes our private cocktail reception the evening before.
Register now and get $300 OFF your ticket with code SPRING300!
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
JOHANNA
CALMES
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Johanna Calmes, the dynamic Chief Operating Officer of GOLDLAW and our “Second in Command,” serves as the driving force behind the organization’s operations, implementing the vision of the President/Founder.
With more than 20 years of leadership experience across diverse industries and her expertise in operations across a broad spectrum of organizations, from dynamic startups and mid-sized companies to Fortune 250 enterprises, Johanna plays a critical role in executing strategic initiatives and achieving the company’s goals, holding our team accountable to GOLDLAW’s core values, and ensuring smooth operations with efficiency at every level. Johanna’s natural leadership acumen, combined with her capacity for managing complex, cross-functional teams, ensures that GOLDLAW’s strategic goals are not only met but consistently exceeded, positioning the company for sustained excellence and innovation in a competitive marketplace.
Johanna is a seasoned professional with a Bachelor of Science in Management and a Master of Business Administration focusing on Leadership and Managing Change from Pepperdine University in Malibu, California. Johanna firmly believes in the balance of staying active and having fun, viewing health as one of the essential pillars of wealth and success in life.
Outside of her professional achievements, Johanna leads a fulfilling personal life in Boynton Beach, Florida, where she resides with her husband and their beloved dog, Joey. A proud mother of two adult sons, Johanna enjoys an active lifestyle that includes spending time at the beach, boating, discovering new dining experiences, shopping, and exploring new destinations worldwide—embracing life’s adventures with enthusiasm and joy.
PARTNER SPOTLIGHT ANGELA WILLIAMS
Turning Tragedy into a Mission for Change
BORN AND RAISED in Riviera Beach, Florida, Angela Williams grew up as the youngest of ten siblings in a close-knit family. A devoted mother of three and a former employee of the Palm Beach County School Board, she has always had a heart for her community. Long before founding her nonprofit, she recognized the need to uplift local children and took action by organizing an annual school supply drive to ensure students had the tools to succeed.
But Angela’s true calling came from an unimaginable tragedy—one that would change her life forever.
From Heartbreak to Action
In 2003, Angela’s nephew, Torrey Manuel, was murdered in a senseless act of violence. The loss shattered her family, especially her sister, who was left grieving the unimaginable. Watching her sister’s pain and feeling the weight of her own grief, Angela knew she had to do something. She refused to let Torrey’s death be just another statistic.
Instead of being paralyzed by sorrow, she chose to fight back—not with anger, but with advocacy. She set out to support families affected by violence and to work towards preventing future tragedies.
The Birth of MAMA
With strength, determination, and an unshakable desire to create change, Angela founded the Mothers Against Murderers Association (MAMA) in West Palm Beach, Florida. What started as a small support network has grown into a lifeline for grieving families. Today, MAMA serves 565 mothers who have lost children to violence, offering them emotional support, advocacy, and resources to navigate their unimaginable loss.
Angela herself has suffered the loss of more than 20 family members to violence, a staggering number that fuels her fight every day. “Each day, my mind wanders to who is going to be next,” she says. But rather than giving in to fear, she channels her energy into helping others heal and pushing for solutions to stop the cycle of violence.
HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT MAMA
Donate to help provide resources to families in need
Spread awareness about violence prevention and victim support
Volunteer to support community events and programs
A Legacy of Hope and Prevention
Through MAMA, Angela is working to break the cycle of violence by offering:
• Support for grieving families
Creating a safe space for mothers who have lost children. Violence prevention initiatives Educating youth and communities on conflict resolution.
• Advocacy for stronger policies
Working with officials to push for change in public safety.
• Community outreach programs
Providing resources to at-risk individuals and families.
Angela Williams is proof that one person’s pain can become another person’s hope. Her mission is clear: to save lives, support grieving families, and fight for a future where no mother has to experience the loss she has endured.
Angela’s journey is one of resilience, compassion, and unwavering dedication. Her work with Mothers Against Murderers Association continues to change lives, ensuring that those lost to violence are never forgotten—and that fewer families have to endure the same heartbreak.
For more information or to support MAMA, visit mamawpb.org.
A THANK YOU FROM
In 2025, GOLDLAW is celebrating your trust, support, and resilience!
To give back to the incredible community that has helped us flourish, we are offering a chance to win a $500 VISA Gift Card!
Whether you are a loyal client, a potential future client, or simply someone who believes in fighting for justice, this giveaway is for YOU! We wouldn’t be here without your support, and we want to say thank you for choosing GOLDLAW, believing in us, and sharing your stories.
HOW TO ENTER:
Grab your smartphone! Scan the QR Code using your camera app.
Fill out the quick entry form! It’s just a few questions to learn more about you.
That’s it! You’re automatically entered!
We will select and notify the winner in April.
At GOLDLAW, we are committed to serving our community with dedication and compassion, and your support fuels our passion. Thanks for being part of our journey!
Scan the QR Code below and enter now! Good luck!
Car and Trucking Accidents | Premises
Nursing Home Abuse | Slip & Falls
Cruise Ship & Boating Injuries | Sexual Assault
MAIN OFFICE
1641 Worthington Road, Suite 300
West Palm Beach, FL 33409
PORT ST. LUCIE OFFICE
1100 St. Lucie West Blvd., Suite 103
Port St. Lucie, FL 34986
GOLDLAW.com | 561.222.2222
CHAT ON OUR WEBSITE! There are many ways to get in contact with us. However, there are times that you might want to inquire about our services quickly, before speaking to someone over the phone or in person. The “chat” feature on our website is a perfect solution!
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