South Magazine The South's Greatest Lawyers

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EXPERT LEGAL COUNSEL CAN MEAN THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN INCARCERATION AND FREEDOM; FISCAL PROSPERITY AND INDENTURE; SUCCESS AND FAILURE. WE HAVE CANVASSED THE BEST LEGAL ADVISORS IN THE REGION TO EDUCATE OUR READERS ON ALL THINGS LEGAL. THERE IS SOMETHING TO BE SAID FOR MORAL AND ETHICAL TURPITUDE, AND SAVANNAH’S REGIONAL LEGAL COUNSELORS IMPART SOME OF THE BEST WISDOM TO BE HAD IN THIS PROFESSION.

LEARN ABOUT THE TIPS FROM SOUTH’S FINEST LAWYERS

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NYE LAW ........................................................107

JONES, BOYKIN & ASSOCIATES, P.C. ....122

RICHARD MIDDLETON .............................. 108

TOM A. EDENFIELD ...................................123

NYE LAW .................................................. 110-111

HAROLD & JOE CRONK .............................124

SMART & HARRIS ........................................112

THE PATEL LAW FIRM ..............................125

SHEER MONTGOMERY & CALL, P.C. .......114

CHARLES W. SYNDER ...............................126

CHARLES J.BOWEN ....................................116

THE MANELY FIRM ....................................127

ERIC RODEN & TYLER LOVE ...................118

MORRIS, MANNING, & MARTIN ...............128

DAVID I. SCHACTER ...................................120

DON DYCHES ................................................129

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Personal Injury INSURANCE LAWS ARE SOME OF THE MOST COMPLICATED. BIG INSURANCE COMPANIES WILL DO WHATEVER THEY LEGALLY CAN DO TO DIMINISH YOUR INJURY CLAIM. DON’T LET THEM. BEING INJURED BY SOMEONE ELSE CAN BE DEVASTATING.

➽ Typically, someone is legally responsible for acci-

dents and personal injuries. Cases involving slip and fall, medical malpractice, wrongful death, and car accidents are often complex and should be handled by a professional team. Nye and the rest of the team, bring a realistic perspective and fairness to cases so they are settled easily. Nye explains, “Insurance adjusters can be difficult and unreasonable; we don’t fold or submit to bullying.”

Attorney Miguel Cossio adds, “Most lawyers want to avoid litigation; we are tenacious in our investigations and are not afraid to go after tough cases and to not settle for less.” With that being said, it is important to consult an experienced and reputable personal injury attorney after any accident. Robert Nye and Miguel Cossio can be reached at 114 Barnard Street,#2c, Savannah, GA, 912.200.5230 or thenyelawgroup.com

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Did you know? From 1985-1986 Richard Middleton served as Vice-President of Georgia Trial Lawyers Association. In 1990 he became a Georgia Trial Lawyers Life Member.

Protecting People

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Against Industry THE MIDDLETON FIRM, LLC HAS ACHIEVED RECORD VERDICTS AND SETTLEMENTS IN MORE THAN 40 STATES, INCLUDING MATTERS OF ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION, OCCUPATIONAL DISEASES, EMPLOYMENT LITIGATION, PRODUCT LIABILITY, INSURANCE FRAUD, AND SLAPP-BACK LITIGATION. THE FIRM’S ATTORNEYS HAVE REPRESENTED CLIENTS IN CASES INVOLVING MASS ANIMAL CONFINEMENTS, WASTE RUN-OFF, NOXIOUS ODORS, AND OTHER SUCH AGRICULTURAL AND INDUSTRIAL NUISANCES, INCLUDING FRACKING AND OTHER MINING CASES.

Agricultural, Environmental & Industrial Nuisance ➽ Environmental litigation encompasses issues that range from industrial nuisances – odor, noise, and fumes – which can destroy a person’s comfortable enjoyment of his/her own home – to irresponsible practices resulting in threats to peoples’ well-being, such as contaminated water or hazardous materials, which can lead to serious injury, illness, and even death.

Federal, state, and local regulations are complex and often involve dealing with multiple agencies and governmental entities; determining which industrial actors are responsible for causing the problems is often equally difficult. Navigating such claims and holding the proper parties accountable for their actions is a highly technical process; combatting them requires specialized skill and expertise. The Middleton Firm specializes in these types of claims and is ready to

win the fight against corporate polluters who disregard the safety, health, well-being, and property rights of their neighbors.

Professionalism in Litigation The fierce advocacy of The Middleton Firm is tempered by courtesy and professionalism. Richard Middleton currently serves as the National Treasurer of the ABOTA Foundation Trustees. The American Board of Trial Advocates is an invitation-only legal organization comprised of all types of attorneys, plaintiffs and defense, as well as judges. The organization strives to improve the ethical and technical standards of practice in the field of civil advocacy and to elevate the standards of integrity, honor, and courtesy in the legal profession.

Mr. Middleton also serves on the National Board of Directors of ABOTA and as Co-Chair of the American Civil Trial Bar Roundtable.

He also instructs in trial advocacy at the Washington & Lee University School of Law.

➽

RICHARD

MIDDLETON Richard Middleton has received more seven- and eight-figure verdicts, judgments, and settlements in more states than any other attorney in the Savannah area.

He served as lead trial counsel in the largest nuisance case recovery ever for neighbors of such facilities and also pursued nuisance suits against the natural gas industry in Pennsylvania and Ohio for hydro-fracking abuses and its destruction of land and water supplies. His many awards and recognitions include Past President, American Association for Justice (formerly Association of Trial Lawyers of America); Past President, National Crime Victims Bar Association; Past President, American Board of Trial Advocates, Georgia Chapter; Co-Chair American Civil Trial Bar Roundtable; Past President, Savannah Trial Lawyers Association; Lifetime Trustee, American Jury Trial Foundation; National Board of Directors, Past member, Trial Lawyers for Public Justice, Pound Civil Justice Institute; and National Executive Committee, American Board of Professional Liability Attorneys.

Left to right: Scott Harrison, Richard Middleton, Steve Sael. Not pictured: Christy Montrois RICHARD MIDDLETON can be reached at 912.234.1133 or visit middletonfirm.com

MIDDLETON TIMELINE

1999-2000 Richard Middleton served as President of the American Association of Justice.

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2007-2008

2011

2008-2014

Richard Middleton served as President of the National Crime Victims Bar Association.

Elected Honorary Member of The Order of the Coif, Washington & Lee University.

Richard Middleton was awarded Super Lawyer.

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Family Law DIVORCE, CUSTODY, PATERNITY, AND OTHER FAMILY-RELATED AREAS OF THE LAW ARE EMOTIONALLY CHARGED AND REQUIRE THE COUNSEL OF EVENHANDED, EXPERIENCED ATTORNEYS. WHEN IT COMES TO REPRESENTING FAMILIES’ BEST INTERESTS, HAVING A LAWYER THAT IS EXPERIENCED IN THE AREA OF FAMILY LAW IS ESSENTIAL.

➽ Beyond the emotional aspects of family law mat-

ters, individuals can be overwhelmed with details unique to each marriage. Attorney Matt Midget not only brings compassion to his clients, but he is a keen problem solver. Both Rob Nye’s and Matt’s military backgrounds give them a deep understanding of military family law issues involving multi-state jurisdiction issues, retirement, and entitlement support.

Matt, along with the rest of the team at The Nye Law Group, do their best to ensure that all of your family legal matters are resolved as smoothly as possible.

The Nye Law Group takes into account that there’s nothing more important than someone’s home life, and changes can sometimes be overwhelming.

Matt Midget can be reached at 114 Barnard Street,#2c, Savannah, GA, 912.200.5230 or thenyelawgroup.com

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Criminal Defense

WHEN YOU’RE FACING CRIMINAL CHARGES, YOUR LAWYER NEEDS TO BE IN THE FIGHT WITH YOU. RETAINING THE RIGHT FIRM TO DEFEND YOU IN A CRIMINAL CASE CAN MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE. EXPERIENCE, HARD WORK, AND TENACITY—THAT’S THE NYE LAW GROUP.

➽ Attorney Rob Nye is a former Army Infantry and

JAG Officer with a combat tour in Iraq. After prosecuting insurgents in Iraq, Rob defended soldiers stationed in the southeastern United States facing military justice. Attorney JD Maines is a former Georgia and South Carolina Prosecutor assigned to prosecuting the toughest cases. JD was task force prosecutor for the Chatham County Counter Narcotics Task

Force (CNT) and the York County Drug Enforcement Unit. The unique backgrounds of Rob and JD serve their clients well when preparing a defense. Whether in federal court or state court, The Nye Law Group team will work tirelessly to obtain the best result possible in every case. J.D. Maines and Robert Nye can be reached at 114 Barnard Street,#2c, Savannah, GA, 912.200.5230 or thenyelawgroup.com

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Did you know? Don Smart served his country for 24 years in the United States Marine Corps, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. Stephen H. Harris was an instructor at the John Marshall Law School.

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General Practice

LIKE THE GENERAL STORE OF YESTERYEAR, WHERE YOU TOLD THE SHOPKEEPER YOUR PROBLEM AND HE WANDERED AISLES OF EVERYTHING, FINDING WHAT YOU NEEDED, LEGAL ASSISTANCE IN GENERAL PRACTICE STARTS WITH A CONVERSATION AND ENDS WITH THE HELP YOU SOUGHT.

General Practitioners

Education Advocates

➽ General legal practitioners provide coun-

sel in many legal areas, including divorce, workers’ compensation, social security, estate planning, personal injury, and business law.

Smart & Harris ethically provides advice on these and other issues, based upon 75 years of combined experience in legal practice.

The diversity of knowledge at Smart & Harris puts clients at ease, knowing that their concerns are being handled competently and with care. According to Don Smart, “we want our clients to feel like they are cared for here just as much as their case.”

The needs of the public are ever changing.

That’s why the personal connections that the attorneys and staff at Smart & Harris build with their clients keep them coming back.

That’s the beauty of a general practice firm.

It offers someone you can trust with all your legal needs.

➽ Part of being a responsible community

member is being a good steward for the next generation. Smart & Harris does this by cosponsoring the annual STAR (Student Teacher Achievement Recognition) Awards, which recognize and honor the STAR students and teachers from Chatham County High Schools.

This annual acknowledgement of the achievement and success encourages young people to strive toward academic excellence.

Thus, by sponsoring this program, Smart & Harris does its part toward building better citizens for the Savannah area and beyond.

The diversity of knowledge at Smart & Harris puts clients at ease, knowing that their concerns are being handled competently and with care.

SMART&

HARRIS

ATTORNEYS AT LAW Long-time Savannah legal practitioners Don Smart, Stephen H. Harris and their team of attorneys M. Lynn Frey, III, Timothy P. Taylor, and Angelyn Tinsman stand ready to assist you with your legal requests. When faced with important legal issues that can have such a major impact on your future, it is important to hire a law firm that will listen to and understand your needs. They will work with you to craft a solution that benefits you for years to come. If you need assistance in the areas of Workers’ Comp, Social Security, Divorce, Wills and Probate, Personal Injury, or Business Law, sit down with one of the attorneys of Smart & Harris. Tell them your story and let them give you the experienced legal advice you need.

SMART & HARRIS can be reached at 912.201.2332 or visit smartandharris.com

SMART & HARRIS TIMELINE 2000

2012

2014

Don Smart, Esq., and Stephen H. Harris Esq. joined forces to establish Smart & Harris.

Smart & Harris's Brunswick, Georgia, office opened.

Received five-star rating on Lawyers.com.

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TELL US YOUR STORY!

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Did you know? Steven Scheer served on the Eleventh Circuit Judicial Advisory Panel and as Special Ethics Counsel for the Georgia House of Representatives. Don Montgomery was a police officer in Baltimore County, Maryland, from 1996 to 2005. Craig Call spent over a decade in Savannah’s food/beverage service industry prior to law school.

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DUI Defense

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE IS NOT JUST DRIVING WHILE INTOXICATED FROM ALCOHOL OVER GEORGIA’S LEGAL BLOOD ALCOHOL CONTENT OF 0.08%; IT ALSO INCLUDES PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS AND ANY OTHER ILLEGAL DRUGS. YOU COULD BE CHARGED UNDER THE LEGAL LIMIT FOR “DUI LESS SAFE” IF THE OFFICER FORMS THE OPINION YOU ARE AT RISK TO DRIVE.

Serious Business ➽ Being charged with Driving Under the

Influence is more serious now than ever.

The penalties for a DUI conviction are steeper than any time in Georgia’s history.

The consequences of being convicted of a DUI in Georgia can be severe, burdensome, and life changing. The complexities of DUI stops, seizures, arrests, and trials are an ever evolving area of law.

If you are under the age of twenty-one, the legal limit for blood alcohol content is 0.02%. Underage DUIs are a criminal offense under Georgia’s “Zero Tolerance Laws,” with very severe penalties and longlasting effects for a young driver.

For over 35 years, Steve Scheer has been representing clients who have been charged with DUIs in Chatham, Effingham, Bryan, and other counties within the State of Georgia. Don Montgomery has represented DUI clients for over eight years after being a police officer and prosecutor involved with DUIs. The firm’s newest partner, Craig Call, joined Scheer & Montgomery in June 2010 and has over

four years of experience representing clients charged with DUI. Making the right decision to hire an experienced DUI lawyer will help you navigate through the difficult time following a DUI arrest. With over 50 years combined experience in handling DUI cases, the lawyers at Scheer, Montgomery & Call protect the rights and interests of those charged with DUI like no others and vow to provide a rigorous defense for their clients.

Beyond DUI ➽ A majority of the firm’s clients come to Scheer, Montgomery & Call through word of mouth. Although successful in multi-million dollar cases, Scheer, Montgomery & Call does not advertise past successes, as we strongly believe the only person who should release information about the outcome of a case is the client.

In addition to representing DUIs, other areas of expertise at Scheer, Montgomery & Call include personal injury and wrongful death, criminal defense, local government law, civil litigation, corporate litigation, and product liability.

SCHEER, MONTGOMERY

& CALL, P.C

Steven E. Scheer received his J.D. from the University of Georgia in 1974, has an AV rating, is included in Martindale-Hubbell’s Bar Register of Preeminent Lawyers, and is a Georgia Super Lawyer.

He is a member of the Savannah Bar Association, the State Bar of Georgia and the American Bar Association and has served as City Attorney for the city of Pooler since 2002.

Donald L. Montgomery Jr. received his J.D. from the University of Maryland in 2003 and was admitted to the State Bar of Georgia in November 2005. He is a member of the Savannah Bar Association, the State Bar of Georgia, and the National College for DUI Defense. Don’s focus is criminal defense and DUI. Craig Call received his J.D. from Florida Coastal School of Law in 2009 and was admitted to the Florida Bar in 2009 and the State Bar of Georgia in 2010. He is also a member of the Savannah Bar Association. Craig’s focus is on civil litigation, local government law, corporate/business law, and criminal defense.

SCHEER, MONTGOMERY & CALL can be reached at 912.233.1273 or visit scheerandmontgomery.com

SCHEER, MONTGOMERY & CALL TIMELINE 1974-2000

2000-2009

2009-2014

2014

Steven E. Scheer practiced law with Lee & Clark, P.C., which eventually became Lee, Black, Scheer & Hart, P.C.

Steven E. Scheer, P.C. opened in July of 2000 at 304 E. Bay Street.

In September of 2002, the office relocated to 8 E. Liberty Street.

Steven E. Scheer and Donald L. Montgomery Jr. merged becoming Scheer and Montgomery, P.C. in July 2009.

Craig A. Call joined the firm as partner on July 1,2014, and the firm became Scheer, Montgomery & Call, P.C.

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Did you know? The Bowen Law Group is one of the most visually stunning offices in the state. The firm’s conference room with panoramic city views is available upon request for corporate board meetings.

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Corporate Law MORE THAN HALF OF THE TWENTY MILLION CIVIL LAWSUITS THAT GET FILED EACH YEAR RELATE TO BUSINESS CONTRACTS. ALL COMPANIES—BOTH LARGE AND SMALL—INEVITABLY HAVE A NEED FOR SKILLED CORPORATE COUNSEL. THE BOWEN LAW GROUP OFFERS A UNIQUE COMBINATION OF EXPERIENCE AND SERVICES THAT MAKES ITS COUNSEL ACCESSIBLE TO BOTH LARGE CORPORATIONS AND LOCAL BUSINESSES ALIKE.

Large Firm Experience, Small Firm Attention

Business Savvy

➽ When legal needs arise, small busi-

➽ Did you know that approximately one

nesses and large corporations face a difficult question: Should they incur the tremendous expense of retaining a large firm with hopes of procuring superior results or should the company procure the services and attention of a small firm while possibly sacrificing the impact and quality of the representation? By uniquely combining the best aspects of both alternatives, The Bowen Law Group provides an innovative solution.

Attorney Charles J. Bowen spent many years managing the Savannah offices of two venerated Atlanta corporate law firms while establishing himself as a respected member of the local community. As a result, The Bowen Law Group has an unmatched ability to apply the skill and techniques of large metropolitan firms while maintaining the benefits and attentiveness of an esteemed local practice.

The Bowen Law Group also offers comprehensive mediation services as a faster and more cost-effective alternative to litigation.

out of every three small business owners has been sued or threatened with a lawsuit in the past five years? More than half of these lawsuits affect small businesses making less than $1 million in annual revenue.

Bowen stresses that most business owners do not require the services of an attorney on a daily basis; however, the old saying that “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is especially true in the corporate arena. Sometimes even the savviest business people need to call upon an experienced attorney when forming a corporation, buying or selling a business, facing employment issues or government audits or investigations, considering legal compliance questions, and, most importantly, litigation of any kind. Having immediate access to a skilled corporate attorney can protect the client’s interests and ensure the success of the business.

The Bowen Law Group’s main focus is on commercial, banking, and manufacturing law. The firm handles all aspects of corporate representation, from initial establishment, to counseling on daily operations, to emergency litigation.

CHARLES J.

BOWEN A Georgetown Law graduate, Charles J. Bowen has spent the past twenty years prac­ticing law in Savannah. After establishing a full-service Savannah litigation firm, Bowen went on to manage the Savannah branches of two influential Atlanta corporate law firms. In 2012, he launched The Bowen Law Group to provide elite legal services to Savannah’s business community.

Although he counsels his clients to resolve matters quickly whenever possible, Bowen is no stranger to aggressive courtroom action when necessary. He has handled all aspects of corporate litigation on behalf of large corporations and small businesses throughout the state. Bowen also lectures at business functions, schools, and legal education conferences on various aspects of corporate practice.

Bowen is also an avid supporter of the local art community. He is on the board of The Shoestring Theatre Company and served as the Executive Producer of the film Winter Chemistry, recently filmed in Savannah. The Bowen Law Group also features numerous commissioned artworks by local artists as well as one of Savannah’s most extensive collections of antique furniture and historic photographs and documents.

THE BOWEN LAW GROUP can be reached at 912.544.2050 or visit thebowenlawgroup.com

BOWEN TIMELINE 1895

1995

2005

2012

Bowen’s great-grandfather, Bernard Cohen Shields, establishes The Shields Law Group in New Orleans, ultimately becoming the city’s most successful corporate practice.

Bowen moves to Savannah and establishes a corporate law practice.

Within two years, he co-founds the Savannah litigation firm of Daly, Bowen & Calhoun.

A highly-respected Atlanta law firm hires Bowen to launch and manage their new Savannah branch.

The Bowen Law Group is established in Savannah and also opens a satellite office in Atlanta.

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Did you know? When they are not working tirelessly for their clients, the attorneys at Roden + Love take advantage of all Savannah has to offer. Tyler Love is a two handicap on the golf course and enjoys flying with his private pilot’s license. Eric Roden has recently become a boating enthusiast and is currently planning his 2015 wedding to his lovely fiancé.

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Workers’ Compensation SUFFERING AN ON THE JOB INJURY CAN BE A DEVASTATING EXPERIENCE. FORTUNATELY, IN GEORGIA, THE WORKERS’ COMPENSATION ACT CAN PROTECT YOU DURING THESE DIFFICULT TIMES. HOWEVER, IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT YOU ENLIST A KNOWLEDGEABLE ATTORNEY IMMEDIATELY AFTER YOUR ACCIDENT TO ENSURE THAT YOU GET THE BENEFITS YOU DESERVE.

Denied Claims

Accepted Claims

➽ When your employer and the insur-

➽ Even when your claim has been

ance company deny your workers’ compensation claim, it does not mean that your claim is not compensable and that you are not entitled to benefits under Georgia’s laws. In fact, if you were at work performing a task associated with your job and not intoxicated at the time of your accident, your claim is almost certainly compensable. The reason for this is that Georgia has a no-fault workers’ compensation system, meaning that you do not have to show negligence or fault of any type to have a compensable claim.

Honest employers and good insurance companies are straightforward and up front with employees about their rights to both medical treatment and potential income benefits, but many seek to prevent or delay treatment, refuse to initiate weekly benefits, and even deny claims completely citing baseless defenses. If this sounds familiar, you will need an attorney to assist you in pursuing your claim and recognizing all of the benefits that you are entitled to.

accepted and you are receiving medical treatment and income benefits, an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can help protect your rights and maximize the settlement of your claim. All too often, employers and insurers use their power to influence the treatment decisions of your doctor or to rush your doctor to release you to work before you have fully recovered from your injury. As a result, many injured workers are forced to return to work too soon and either suffer recurrent injuries or are terminated immediately, leaving them feeling helpless and with the impression that their claim is closed.

Whether you are currently in treatment and receiving income benefits or not, Roden + Love can help you with your case in a variety of ways. They will guide you through the treatment process, ensure that you receive all of the proper income benefits, and safeguard you from being pushed back into a strenuous job too soon, all while monitoring the actions of the insurance company in order to position your claim for maximum settlement value.

ERIC RODEN &TYLER LOVE Eric L. Roden, one of the founding partners of Roden + Love, is a Double Dawg and diehard UGA fan, having earned both his undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Georgia. He moved to Savannah in 2012 and since has represented countless clients in their workers’ compensation claims, both in and out of court. Aside from practicing law, Eric is actively involved with the Telfair Museum and Savannah Bar Association.

Before co-founding Roden + Love, Tyler M. Love began his career in the Atlanta area working for Lester Tate, a former State Bar president and renowned trial lawyer, where he handled a wide array of cases. Since moving to Savannah, Tyler has narrowed his practice to specialize in workers’ compensation and personal injury claims. Protecting individuals and their families from the physical and financial ruin that can come from an unexpected injury is Tyler’s passion, and he takes great pride in recovering compensation for injury victims throughout Georgia.

ERIC RODEN & TYLER LOVE can be reached at 912.303-5850 or visit RodenLoveLaw.com

RODEN + LOVE TIMELINE August 2013

June 2014

July 2014

Opened its first office in Savannah, Georgia, specializing in workers’ compensation and personal injury cases.

Launched its new website and online marketing campaign focusing on Coastal and South Georgia clients.

Proudly topped over $2,500,000 in recoveries for injury victims throughout the State of Georgia in the first year.

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Did you know? David Schachter is the father of three and has been happily married for 12 years. He is an active member of his synagogue and enjoys the company of his Altman White English Bulldog, Brutus, whom he inherited from a client after a major victory. He has been a devoted Dead Head for years.

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The Schachter Law Firm, LLC

A DETAIL-ORIENTED FAMILY LAW PRACTITIONER IS ESSENTIAL TO SURVIVING EMOTIONALLY CHARGED DIVORCE AND CHILD CUSTODY CASES. ATTORNEY DAVID I. SCHACHTER IS KNOWN FOR HIS ATTENTION TO DETAIL, SKILL, AND PERSONAL APPROACH TO WINNING SUCH CASES.

A Good Divorce ➽ Researchers estimate that over 50 percent of marriages end in divorce. According to David Schachter, “There are no real winners in divorce; there are only degrees of losing.” The biggest losers are normally children who are “innocent collateral.” Schachter understands that people embroiled in divorce and custody cases are rarely rational, and he encourages people to extend olive branches in negotiating what he calls “a good divorce.” Schachter explains, “Oftentimes, a good divorce is better than a lousy marriage.”

Schachter’s accessibility is important to his clients, and he has received high praise from them. One client wrote, “I would check my email in the morning and find a response from Mr. Schachter sent from his office at 1:00 in the morning! On a Sunday!

If that is not a benchmark for commitment, then I have no idea what is.”

Clients have praised, “I simply can’t say enough good about how well he negotiated and fought for me in a very difficult break up” and “David thinks outside the box where other attorneys treat matters in

a rote manner, and that made all of the difference in my case.”

While Schachter encourages negotiating in good faith, he is not afraid to go to court.

A client described David as “a warrior and not one for opponents to trifle with.”

Another was so thankful to Schachter that they wrote, “He is worth every dollar!!”

Some of Schachter’s referrals are actually friends of former client’s ex-spouses whom he opposed in divorces.

Schachter’s Divorce Tips 1. To find a reputable lawyer, check with

reputable sources. Personal referrals are important, but because every case and client is different, objective credentials are helpful too.

2. Beware of a lawyer who tells you things

he or she thinks you want to hear.

3. When possible, avoid the impulse to

DAVID I.

SCHACHTER A graduate of Case Western Reserve University School of Law, David I. Schachter is the kind of attorney who is “more motivated by the fear of losing than the need to win. I love winning as much as the next attorney, but I hate to lose twice as much. I refuse to be outworked on cases. That is a practice philosophy.” Schachter keeps a copy of Sun Tzu’s The Art of War on his office table and applies those principles to his work.

In a recent victory, Schachter was hired at the eleventh hour and won an uphill battle, defeating a powerful agency that had virtually convinced a court to sever the relationship between children and their biological family forever. The children’s grandfather praised Schachter as a “brilliant tactician and strategist” and a “creative problem preemptor.” Schachter convinced the court to reverse course, and the children now live with their biological grandparents.

THE SCHACHTER LAW FIRM can be reached at 912.233.8883 or visit disfamilylaw.com

be unnecessarily punitive and vindictive toward your soon-to-be ex-spouse. You most likely will still have to deal with your former spouse long after the case and lawyers go away, especially if you share children.

SCHACHTER TIMELINE

2005

2007

2008

He clerked for the Honorable Ann Aldridge, Judge, U.S. District Court, Northern District of Ohio.

Began practicing law after graduating from Case Western Reserve University School of Law where he was the recipient of two Excellence Awards, including one for Family Law.

Major contributor to “Bus Bombings and a Baby’s Custody: Insidious Victories for Terrorism in the Context of International Custody Disputes” in the Journal of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers.

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2012-2014 Recipient of the Client’s Choice Award in the areas of Family Law and Divorce Law three years in a row. Client satisfaction says more about an attorney than anything else can.

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Jones, Boykin & Associates, P.C.

WE ALL HOPE TO GO THROUGH LIFE WITHOUT INJURY OR ACCIDENT, BUT OFTEN TIMES, THEY ARE UNAVOIDABLE. WHEN THEY DO HAPPEN, WE NEED HELP FROM MANY OTHERS, INCLUDING AN ATTORNEY WHO CARES.

➽ “It is a gift to be a member of a profession where you can effect a positive, tangible change in people’s lives”, said Attorney Noble Boykin.

This genuine concern for others is at the heart of Jones, Boykin & Associates’ practice and is the reason his firm has earned countless successful verdicts for its clients. Not only does Noble Boykin bring his firm’s compassion for people to each case, but he also shares this

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with the greater Savannah community.

Specializing in personal injury and maritime and railway injury cases, this top-rated firm has handled many high-profile cases against large entities, delivering positive results. In addition to these services, Jones, Boykin & Associates also offers business and real estate litigation as well as DUI defense. Noble Boykin can be reached at 912-236-6161 or visit nobleboykin.com

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Tom A. Edenfield LIFE’S JOURNEY PRESENTS US WITH A VARIETY OF PERSONAL SITUATIONS THAT NEED THE WISE COUNSEL OF AN EXPERIENCED ATTORNEY WHO IS VERSED IN MANY AREAS OF PERSONAL LAW. ESTABLISHING A PERSONAL, TRUSTING RELATIONSHIP WITH SUCH AN ATTORNEY CAN BRING YOU PEACE OF MIND.

➽ From domestic relations and wills and

estates to personal injury and criminal law, Tom A. Edenfield, Sr. can assist you through the changes and situations life may bring you. “To protect the rights and freedom of those who are fortunate enough to be born in a nation under God, where all are entitled to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness and justice for all is central to my philosophy as a lawyer,” said Edenfield. For over 50 years he has been practicing law and now serves as a judge in the Bloomingdale, Garden City, and Rincon municipal courts.

Tom A. Edenfield can be reached at 912.234.1568 or visit edenfieldlaw.com

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Trial Lawyers A GOOD TRIAL LAWYER CAN GET YOU AT LEAST TWO-THIRDS MORE ON A PERSONAL INJURY CLAIM THAN YOU COULD BY YOURSELF, A GREAT ONE CAN GET EVEN MORE.

âž˝ The Law Offices of Harold J. Cronk focus

on personal injury and win jury trials and negotiate settlements with great success.

The firm has specialized in jury trial representation for over 27 years, with a focus on personal injury, criminal law, DUI, medical malpractice, and family law. Native Savannahians, Harold and Joe Cronk have a deep understanding of the area’s legal system, which has resulted in their excellent record of winning jury trials. Harold J. Cronk has served as past President of the Savannah Trial Lawyers Association and currently serves on the Executive Committee of the Savannah Bar Association.

Harold J. Cronk is rated AV Preeminent

by Martindale-Hubbell, the leading lawyer rating service. The Law Offices of Harold J. Cronk encourage you to call upon their services immediately after an injury, car wreck, DUI, or domestic matter.

Harold and Joe Cronk can be reached at 912.236.4878 or visit hcronk.com

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Real Estate Law

REAL ESTATE CLOSINGS, CONTRACT NEGOTIATION, AND REAL ESTATE LITIGATION ARE ALL MATTERS THAT A PROPERTY OWNER CAN FACE WHEN IT COMES TO RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE LAW.

Real estate lawyers are used when buying a home, when refinancing a mortgage, or when a real estate dispute develops between neighbors. Most real estate lawyers can also prepare a will or probate an estate, or even form a company or small business. The mission of a good real estate lawyer is to make sure the process comes together in a timely manner that facilitates a smooth transaction; this mission has been central to Don Dyches’ practice for over twenty years.

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In handling a closing, real estate lawyers make sure the buyer gets clear title to the property, the lender gets a valid security interest in the property, and the seller gets their net proceeds.

Dyches Law Group has locations in Savannah and Pooler, and Don Dyches is licensed to practice in Georgia and South Carolina. Don Dyches of Dyches Law Group, P.C. Don Dyches can be reached at 912.920.8010 or visit dycheslaw.com

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Social Security COMMON PERCEPTION IS THAT SOCIAL SECURITY IS STRICTLY THE DOMAIN OF THE ELDERLY, BUT IN REALITY, SOCIAL SECURITY RULES TAKE INTO ACCOUNT NUMEROUS CIRCUMSTANCES THAT ALLOW FOR DISABILITY BENEFITS AT ANY AGE.

➽ Social Security regulations reflect the fact that the aging process affects adaptability to new work, and requirements become less stringent when one reaches 50, and less stringent still at age 55. Anyone, regardless of age, who is simply unable to work for at least a year due to illness or injury should consider applying for Social Security disability benefits.

The unfortunate truth is that without legal representation, roughly 75 percent of applications for Social Security many with legitimate claims to much-needed compensation are denied.

Charles W. Snyder is an Attorney at Law who specializes in Social Security Disability and SSI Appeals, Worker’s Compensation, and Personal Injury. He gives clients powerful claim to their rightful compensation by preparing each client for hearings, ensuring he or she knows exactly what to expect and understands each step of the process. Charles W. Snyder can be reached at 912.373.7730 or visit charlessnyderlaw.com

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The Manely Firm, P.C.

COMMON DIVORCE STATISTICS HAVEN’T CHANGED IN DECADES. BUT THE PRACTICE OF FAMILY LAW HAS EVOLVED TREMENDOUSLY FOR ONE SAVANNAH FIRM. THE MANELY FIRM IS TRANSFORMING THE WAY FAMILY LAW IS PRACTICED AND PUTTING FAMILY FIRST.

Divorce statistics haven’t changed, but getting a divorce has. Regardless of the circumstances or the assets, divorce no longer means that a family is destroyed. Considering the long-term relationships that must continue post divorce is key to redefining a family — not destroying it. Co-parenting and support organizations are touting the new concept of divorce, urging parents to focus on the future instead of a painful past.

The Manely Firm, P.C. is at the forefront of this revolutionary approach to family law. Michael Manely and The Manely Firm, P.C. Associates are attorneys who work

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closely with clients to resolve conflict swiftly and efficiently, seeking resolution through mediation outside the courtroom, whenever possible. After more than 25 years in practice and successful resolution for clients before the State Supreme Court (McDermott v McDermott), the United States Supreme Court (Chafin v Chafin), and in many international jurisdictions, rest assured tha t Michael Manely knows how to win inside the courtroom when necessary. Michael Manely and lead Savannah attorney David Purvis can be reached at 912.232.6300 or visit allfamilylaw.com

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Healthcare Law THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT HAS RESULTED IN BOTH CONFUSION AND OPPORTUNITY FOR HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS, INSURERS, BUSINESSES AND INDIVIDUALS. THE NEED FOR EXPERIENCED HEALTHCARE ATTORNEYS TO ADVISE ON CHANGING CONDITIONS IN THE HEALTHCARE SPACE HAS NEVER BEEN GREATER. THE REGULATORY AND LEGAL ISSUES SURROUNDING THIS NEW LAW ARE COMPLEX AND NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE TO NAVIGATE WITHOUT ASSISTANCE.

➽ The evolving state of health care in the U.S. has many individuals and businesses concerned and distracted by the new regulations. Many law firms address these issues; however, few have been on the inside of the regulations as closely as Morris, Manning & Martin.

Joseph R. Ross (Rusty) is a partner at Morris, Manning & Martin’s Savannah office who specializes in Health Care and Commercial Transactional and Real Estate Law and has served as former Senior Vice President and General Counsel of Memorial Health University Medical Center in Savannah. Rusty has an undergraduate degree from Vanderbilt University and a J.D. and an M.B.A. from the University of Georgia. His training and experience bring a business mindset to the healthcare legal and regulatory environment and the commercial development arena.

With over 175 attorneys, Morris, Manning & Martin represents clients throughout the U.S. in real estate, corporate, healthcare, technology, insurance, and intellectual property law.

Rusty Ross can be reached at 912.232.7182, rross@mmmlaw.com, or visit mmmlaw.com

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The Patel Law Firm HAVING SERVED AS BOTH A PUBLIC DEFENDER AND A PROSECUTOR, SNEH PATEL KNOWS BOTH SIDES OF THE LAW, GIVING HIM AN INSIDE EDGE TO CRIMINAL LAW.

Every geographic region has unique systems of law, and Chatham County is no different. Sneh Patel practiced as a prosecutor for the Chatham County District Attorney’s office for five years and trained many of the county officers in courtroom procedure on the nuances of criminal law. It is important that a criminal defense attorney understands the methods of prosecutors. Having also been a public defender, he has developed the tough grit needed to practice defense cases.

Communication skills are key to navigating the highly technical nature of DUI cases in particular; Patel is fluent in four languages, enabling him to easily grasp and interpret such technicalities that apply to simple and complex misdemeanors as well as serious felonies. Your financial and physical freedoms are often at stake in criminal cases, and that is why having an attorney with intimate knowledge of both sides of a case is critical. Sneh Patel can be reached at 912.656.5996 or visit patellawfirm.net

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