F&P Spotlight on Executive Assistant Amanda Zervas

What is your practice area, and how did you choose it?
I’m an Executive Assistant for the liability attorneys, though I didn’t choose liability, it was chosen for me.  When I originally applied at F&P 10 years ago, I was applying for the receptionist position but was asked if I’d be interested in trying something new and be an administrative assistant instead.  I’m glad I agreed to take on the new challenge and try a job I’ve never done before because I found out I really enjoy what I do now.

What is your favorite aspect of working at F&P?
In my experience at F&P, I’ve been a part of some amazing teams that support each other and work towards bettering each other.  I’ve learned so much from everyone I’ve had the pleasure to work for and with.  They’ve pushed me into new challenges, and I’ve gained knowledge that’s made me someone others can rely on when they need help.

What’s your proudest accomplishment?
My two boys would have to be my proudest, ongoing, accomplishment.  Seeing the little men I’m raising and doing my best to instill kindness, respect, acceptance, and values in them in hopes to enrich their futures.  I love seeing my boys use those skills I’m trying to teach them in their daily lives.

What do you like to do outside the office?
I like to spend as much time as possible with my kids since they’re only young once.  We enjoy being outside visiting different parks, playgrounds, and farms. We also enjoy doing crafting projects together for each upcoming holiday to decorate their playroom.

What is your favorite food?
I love sushi. That’s one type of food I can never turn down.

What is your all-time favorite city or town, and why?
My favorite city would have to be Orlando in Florida since that is where Disney World is located and our favorite place to vacation as a family.

What was the best news you ever received?
The best news I’ve received would have to be, after years of trying, when we found out that I was pregnant with our second child. My husband and I knew we wanted two children so finally finding out that we were going to complete our family was the best news.

What is the weirdest thing you have ever eaten?
I tried frog legs once.  It wasn’t terrible, but not something I need to have again.

Do you have any bizarre talents?
My arms are double-jointed.  I’m able to hold my hands behind my back and bring them over my head without letting go.

 

F&P Principal Obtains Favorable Verdict in Recent PG County Jury Trial

Last Tuesday, May 23, F&P principal Heather Rice secured a strong verdict after a two-day jury trial in the Circuit Court for Prince George’s County. The case arose from an August 2017 motor vehicle accident which resulted in serious property damage to the two vehicles involved.  Defendant accepted responsibility for the accident and the jury was tasked with determining whether Plaintiff was injured and if so, the extent of Plaintiff’s injuries. The Plaintiff’s claimed medical specials of approximately $16,000.00 were not contested.

In his closing argument, Plaintiff’s counsel argued that his client had suffered from a permanent injury and asked the jury to award Plaintiff $416,000.00 in damages. Ms. Rice utilized surveillance and the testimony of Plaintiff’s own treating provider to convince the jury that Plaintiff’s soft tissue injuries were resolved after two months of conservative treatment. After an hour of deliberation, the jury rejected Plaintiff’s $416,000.00 suggestion and instead returned a verdict awarding the Plaintiff $61,000.00.

F&P Assists with Workers’ Compensation Garnishment Legislation

F&P Principals John Handscomb and Bert Randall played integral roles in the development and passage of Maryland Senate Bill 71 and House Bill 800, sponsored by Senator Benjamin Brooks and Delegate Scott Phillips, respectively, regarding garnishment of child support arrearages in workers’ compensation cases.  Given statutory ambiguity, there has been a longstanding debate regarding the proper amount that should be withheld from indemnity payments for workers’ compensation claimants that owe child support.  These bills, signed into law by Governor Wes Moore on May 3, 2023, will go into effect on October 1, 2023, and will resolve this issue once and for all by permitting withholding amounts of up to 25% of the indemnity benefits due.  Major thanks go to Kimberly Shiloh, Chief of Staff for Senator Brooks, who was instrumental in having these bills introduced and passing unanimously in both chambers.