• The red, white and blue of American Patriotism begins in July but never ends
  • Registration is now open for the Construction Law 101 seminar
  • Standing room only at Hans Wahl's recent community association seminar
  • New Law Blogs
  • Curiosities, Ruminations and Various Eccentricities of Firm Biz
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The red, white and blue of American
Patriotism begins in July but never ends
July is a great month for America, full of celebration and exuberance from sea to shining sea. We celebrate the summer. We also celebrate family and friends. Beyond the season and important people of our lives, we celebrate this great nation that we all call home.

Now although it is a month of celebration for all of us in the U.S.A., how often do you really reflect on why July holds such significance? History recalls an uncertain time in the late 18th century; one fraught with many challenges and instability that we find hard to imagine today. Just imagine the courage it took for the Continental Congress to vote to adopt the Declaration of Independence? The risk to one's home, family, community, livelihood, and even life. That rebellious idea of charting our own destiny, throwing off the shackles of colonialism, and becoming a new country of self-determination. And all of this, well before the advent of the telephone or light bulb.

Imagine the incredible courage it took to sign the Declaration of Independence. To put your name on this hallowed document telling Britain, we are our own country now. Saying that this is our land, and that we will defend it to the death. I think it took true courage by political leaders, colonists and the Minutemen to face trained, career English soldiers, and stare down tyranny. Because of them, we can now mark July as the birth of our nation.

Like all imperfect things, the history of our nation is not without blemish. America was founded on and embodies the incredibly patriotic tradition of sacrifice. Sacrifices made in the past, and sacrifices made today, for the future. Courageous sacrifices so that America can remain always a place of freedom, for the pursuit of life, liberty and justice. I believe a true patriot is someone who embodies these values, helping to ensure this way of life becomes and remains a reality for all, and not simply a forgotten memory for some. These are quotes from two amazing patriots, which I believe constitute the essence of patriotism:
“America was not built on fear. America was built on courage, on imagination and an unbeatable determination to do the job at hand.”

- President Harry S. Truman
“I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.”

- Martin Luther King, Jr.
Independence Day is truly a celebration of freedom and courageous sacrifice for all, which is the bedrock of our nation's character. It is vital that we champion American patriotism in our own lives throughout the year, not just during the month of July. I try to demonstrate this perpetual patriotism by sharing my belief to my children that despite the imperfections of the U.S., it remains the greatest county on Earth. I also share with them my admiration of the many patriots whose names and memories arise during our casual conversation, such as when we discuss their schoolwork or are on a family trip. Additionally, I'm proud to be part of a law firm that honors patriotism through hard work everyday, well beyond just the annual celebration of our country's greatness.

We provide legal representation to the best of our ability, relentlessly striving to ensure our clients can pursue success without undue encumbrance. Each member of the Jimerson Birr team puts in the time it takes to deliver results, embodying the quintessential American work ethic. Together, we courageously push to make our community better so that generations to come will know the prosperity we have enjoyed because of the sacrifices of the past.

Please join with me and our founding fathers in personally helping to preserve the values of patriotism. Model patriotism in your own life, teaching it to your children through family traditions in July and throughout rest of the year. Whether it is at work or home, never forget to share what courage and sacrifice are really all about with the people in your life. Because the measure of our success will be evident well beyond our own time here, as we have seen from history.
Sincerely, 
Registration is now open for the Jimerson Birr
Construction Law 101 Seminar
As a contractor, subcontractor or company owner, you know how important it is to expand your working knowledge and awareness of Florida construction law. Each year, Jimerson Birr offers a comprehensive seminar sharing the newest changes to the law and help identify how they may impact your business.

Join industry experts and your peers on Thursday, October 24th for our annual refresher course that includes presentations on:

  • The construction licensing process
  • Construction liens and bond law
  • Construction defects
  • Construction contracts

This seminar will last from 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. and participants will receive four (4) CE credits:

  • Laws & Rules (1 hour)
  • Business Practice (1 hour)
  • General (2 hours)

Lunch will be provided during the seminar from 12:00 - 1:00 p.m., and there will be time after the program for attendees to have one-on-one time with the presenters. Although this event is FREE to attendees, space is limited and solely on a first-come, first-served basis. Therefore, be sure to register as soon as possible to ensure your spot is reserved.
Standing room only at Hans Wahl's recent
community association seminar
Based on useful feedback from previous seminar participants, this year the firm began offering a quarterly Community Association Law seminar for CAMs and Board Members of Condominium, Homeowners and Community Associations. The second event of the 2019 series was hosted by Florida Bar Board-Certified Condominium and Planned Development Law Attorney Hans C. Wahl , and featured an in-depth focus on how to best prepare for Florida Hurricane Season.

Every seat was filled and participants learned about steps to take both before and after a storm, to help ensure the safety and security of their community associations. If you were unable to attend the event, or would like to read the content presented, click here.

Also, be sure to stay tuned for our announcement of the next Jimerson Birr Community Association Seminar - Developer Turnover, which should be in the next couple of months. Finally, if you have any questions about the seminar or need additional community association assistance, you can email Hans directly by clicking here .
Jimerson Birr Legal Blogs
Are you keeping up with the latest information in business and law? Jimerson Birr publishes weekly blog posts covering topics from construction law, business litigation, eminent domain law, community associations law and everything in between. Click here to subscribe today and stay up-to-date on the latest legal news from these areas:

Commercial Real Estate and Land Use Law Blog
The Public Procurement And Bidding Process In Florida


For many companies, the award of a single public contract can help cement long-lasting relationships that may result in years of continuing business. Therefore, it is important for companies of all sizes to know and understand the requirements and bidding process in Florida when bidding on a public procurement contract. A company’s business development department must first ensure the contract is worth the time and money spent...

Click here to read the full blog post.


Construction Industry Law Blog
Roofing 101: Common Legal Issues And Concerns


Under Florida law, a roofer must have a license to perform work in Florida. Roofers (or “roofing contractors”) are classified as Division II Contractors under section 489.105(3), Florida Statutes. Roofing contractors must hold one of two distinct types of licenses. A roofer may obtain a license as a “certified contractor,” whereby that roofer is permitted to operate in all Florida cities and counties. A “certified contractor” license is advantageous for...

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The Top Five Do's And Don'ts Of A Subcontractor Pass Through Claim


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Business Litigation Blog
Checklist Of What To Include In Your Florida Articles Of Incorporation


Florida Law requires that any new company wishing to incorporate in the state of Florida file articles of incorporation with the Florida Department of State. The articles of incorporation is the document that establishes the formation of the company. If you are forming a new company seeking to incorporate in the state of Florida, filling...

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Three Vital Small Business Contract Provisions That You Cannot Live Without - From A Florida Litigator's Perspective


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Firm News
Curiosities, Ruminations and Various Eccentricities of Firm Biz
Bob Ross Summer Paint Slingers

From happy little trees to happy little rowboats, each summer heralds the arrival of a new oil paint masterpiece to the walls of Jimerson Birr. This year, the Events Committee selected " Splendor of Autumn " by Bob Ross as the basis for our annual competition. What followed after was a fierce painting spectacle!

Teams were comprised of five attorneys or staff with each teammate getting two minutes to contribute to the painting before having to rotate to another person to pick up where they left off. Everyone went several times during the 30 minute competition, resulting in our most vibrant, colorful works of art yet.

After the event, we posted photos on social media and encouraged our clients and followers to vote for a winner. Votes were cast and the results are in... watch this video to learn who won this year's Bob Ross competition.
Beating The Summer Heat With A Little Something Sweet

Whether it it's suffering from the hot sun, batting away voracious mosquitoes, or planning for unpredictable hurricanes, Floridians pay the price to live in paradise. However, sometimes enjoying the right treat before the afternoon rains come can really make your day.

So just in case you didn't realize it, July 9th is National Sugar Cookie Day . We know, can you believe they actually have that? When we found out about this oft-forgotten holiday, it became the perfect occasion to enjoy some of the best from Cinotti's Bakery, Heartsong Cookies and Watergate Pastries. We worked diligently to make sure the quality wasn't lacking (it wasn't, of course).

Two days later was 7/11, which everyone knows is National Slurpee Day . We're a participatory bunch, so in honor of this annual event, the firm got everyone on the 14th Floor a smooth, refreshing treat - in coke, razzberry and cherry flavors. With the heat pouring down outside in downtown Jacksonville, yummy slurpees had us all cooling down inside.
Achieving His Dreams Helped To Extend Horizons For Others In Need

Jimerson Birr attorney Will Anderson and his wife Chelsea recently attended the First Annual Unbroken Horizons Scholarship Banquet, which was founded by Jacksonville valedictorian, Seth Owen . Back in 2018, we shared the story on how Seth's goal of attending Georgetown University was endangered following his admission to the school, because of major personal challenges. While Seth was working hard to overcome homelessness and estrangement from his family, Will successfully advocated for affordable tuition to Georgetown so that Seth would be able to achieve his dream. After receiving an outpouring of support from all across the world, Seth was able to attend Georgetown with a full scholarship. He then reinvested proceeds from his viral fundraising campaign into Unbroken Horizons. This year's banquet honored five scholars and featured a keynote address by Kalen Allen of the Ellen DeGeneres Show.
A Summer Surprise Of Nostalgia In The River City

There are numerous journalists who follow and cover the legal industry, writing articles on recent laws or the people who are involved in interpreting the statutes. Periodically, those media outlets compile some of that information into bound volumes, then send them to judges as keepsakes. Recently, Jimerson Birr attorney JoAnne Eichelberger was given one of these very unique gifts, titled "Opinions of the Honorable Howell W. Melton, Senior Judge, United States District Court." She said it was very a welcomed surprise, bringing up many fond memories from the 23 years she clerked for Judge Melton.
A Fitting Tribute For 5 Good Years Of Volunteer Service

Jimerson Birr attorney Adam Edgecombe recently attended a Jacksonville Bar Association Young Lawyers Section (YLS) end of the year send-off party, honoring members who had served over the past cycle. Several lawyers were honored, including Adam, who has volunteered during the past 5 years in organizing events for JBA attorneys that foster networking, professional development and community charitable giving. Congratulations Adam!
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