Author: Melissa

This article is part one of a series relating to rideshare safety.

In a study done by the University of Chicago, one-third of the rideshare drivers polled admitted being involved in a work-related crash. (Journal of Safety Research, Volume 89, June 2024, pages 13-18.)

As the expansion of rideshare services grows in the United States, so too are the incidents of accidents involving these services.

Key Facts

• The University of Chicago study found rideshare services cause measurable increases in fatal crashes and each additional 100 rideshare trips increase the odds of an injury crash, up to 4.6%.
• Uber and Lyft provide liability coverage, but the dollar amount of coverage changes with each step of the rideshare event.
• There are different legal avenues based on whether you are a passenger, another driver, a cyclist, or a pedestrian.
• 58% of fatal rideshare crash victims are third parties (not drivers or passengers).
• 90% of Uber accidents occur in urban areas.

Uber and other rideshare drivers must use company-provided applications through their cellular phone at all times during rideshare services, which cause additional risks as drivers need to monitor their apps, navigate unfamiliar roads, and have a compensation structure that incentivizes rushing between fares.

Phases of Rideshare Insurance

Who Pays?

When the application is turned off

A driver’s personal auto insurance covers the driver when the app is offline. Drivers must maintain at least the mandatory minimum coverage and provide proof of insurance to use their vehicle for Uber services.

When the application is on, (waiting for request)

If an Uber driver is at fault and another person gets hurt or their vehicle gets damaged, Uber provides a third-party liability insurance that covers the cost of injuries or damage in at least the following amounts:

• $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for injuries
• $25,000 in property damage per accident

Depending on the law of your state, Uber may maintain extra coverage for you and your riders, including one or more of the following:

• Maryland coverage includes uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and contingent comprehensive and collision coverage which includes a $1000 deductible to the drivers.
• For full coverage gaps between personal and rideshare coverage, drivers may need to purchase a supplemental rideshare policy from a provider such as Progressive.

When app is on (driver is in route or on-trip)

This is the period when Uber provides the strongest insurance. During this phase, insurance covers at least $1,000,000 for property damage and injuries to riders and third parties involved in an accident where the Uber driver is at fault. Data from Uber Website

Step-by-Step, What to Do After a Rideshare Collision

• Think safety first: Check for injuries and move to a safe location if possible.

• Call 911: Report the accident to police and request medical assistance, even if injuries seem minor. Serious injuries can have delayed symptoms.

• Document the scene:
  • Take photos of all vehicles involved, showing damage and license plates, be sure to take pictures close up and far away.
  • Photograph the surrounding area, including traffic signals, road conditions, weather, and positions of all vehicles.
  • If possible, capture screenshots of your rideshare app showing trip status and driver information.

• Gather information:
  • Driver’s name, contact information, and insurance details, if possible take a picture of all documents on your phone.
  • Note the rideshare driver’s app status (logged in, en route, or transporting).
  • Collect names and contact information of witnesses.
  • Be sure to ask for the police officer’s name and badge number, usually they will provide a business card with an accident report number written on it.
  • Keep the accident report number, you will need this to request a full police report.

• Report the accident:
  • Notify Uber or Lyft through their app’s help section.
  • Report the accident to your own auto insurance (if you were driving) or health insurance).
  • Be cautious about recorded statements to insurance representatives. If there is any question of fault, seek advice from an attorney; do not make a recorded statement with the insurance company.

• Seek medical attention: Get evaluated by a doctor even if you feel fine. Be sure to keep documents of all treatments and follow medical advice precisely.

• Consult an attorney: Contact a personal injury attorney experienced within the Maryland, Virginia or District of Columbia area before accepting any settlement offers.

You can protect your legal rights. Experienced attorneys know how to get you fair compensation if you are injured in a pedestrian accident in Maryland, Virginia or the District of Columbia. 

Stay tuned for my next edition which will lay out actions for non-passengers (drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists); steps riders can follow to file Uber or Lyft accident claims; and claim and compensation opportunities available to victims.

Get the facts. Get educated.

If you’re thinking about filing for divorce in Maryland, you’re already facing a major turning point in your life. Whether the decision is mutual or one-sided, the right preparation can make a significant difference in the speed, cost, and outcome of your case.  Below are the key steps and considerations every potential divorce litigant should understand when preparing for a divorce in Maryland.

Understand Maryland’s Grounds for Divorce

In Maryland, divorces now proceed under no-fault grounds. Your specific circumstances or necessary strategy may make one ground more appropriate than the next.

Common Grounds for Absolute Divorce

• 6-month separation (no requirement to live separately — physical separation within the same home may qualify)
• Mutual consent divorce (requires a signed marital settlement agreement)
• Irreconcilable differences (requires identifying what the differences are, which is where many would identify traditional fault reasons for divorce, albeit in a brief fashion)

Gather Financial Records Early

Financial clarity is one of the most critical elements of a successful Maryland divorce case. Courts and attorneys need a complete picture to determine equitable distribution, support, and planning. Therefore, the sooner you begin to gather documents, the better. 

It is generally recommended that you start collecting the following documents:

• Tax returns (last 3+ years)
• Bank statements (last 2 years at least)
• Retirement and investment account statements (last 2 years at least)
• Business ownership documents
• Credit card and loan statements (last 2 years at least)
• Mortgage and real estate records (last 2 years at least)
• Paystubs and income documentation (last 2 years at least)

If your spouse controls the finances or withholds information, gathering documents early is essential. Your attorney can help obtain missing records during discovery, but early preparation makes the process smoother.

Identify Marital vs. Non-Marital Property

Maryland follows the property division principle or equitable distribution. Equitable distribution is not the same as a 50/50 division. Additionally, there is no set formula for how to determine equitable distribution, because it is based on the factors and circumstances unique to each marriage. Ultimately, the court looks at fairness, not equality, when determining an outcome. 

So, What Is Marital Property?

Assets that a couple acquires during their marriage are typically considered marital property. When trying to identifying marital property, think about the items/assets acquired during the marriage, whether that is income, real estate, investments, or event debts.

So, What Is Non-Marital Property

Defining non-marital property can get a bit trickier. Generally, property acquired prior to the marriage is considered non-marital property. Other common areas of non-marital property include items from inheritance(s) or property that was specifically excluded from being considered marital through a valid prenuptial agreement or postnuptial agreement.

Correctly categorizing assets and tracing non-marital contributions can significantly impact the financial outcome of your case.

Consider Custody and Parenting Priorities Early

For parents, custody decisions are often the most emotional and legally complex part of the divorce process. When determining custody issues in Maryland, courts evaluate the best interests of the child. Maryland recently codified 16 distinct factors that Courts are required to consider when determining custody cases in Maryland. Listen to our October JGL LAW FOR YOU podcast to learn about these 16 factors.  

If you anticipate disputes over custody or parenting time, begin documenting your involvement, schooling responsibilities, healthcare participation, and daily routines.

Avoid Moving Out Without a Plan

Many clients want to move out quickly, but moving out prematurely can create significant disadvantages, especially in custody and use-and-possession of the marital home. Before relocating, consider the following:

• Custody positioning
• Marital home rights
• Financial risk
• Future negotiations

A strategic move is very different from an impulsive one.

Build a Support Team — Legal, Emotional, and Financial

Divorce is not just a legal process; it’s a personal transition. You may need more than an attorney:

• A therapist or counselor
• A divorce-focused financial advisor or CPA
• A strong, stable support network

Clients who take care of their mental and financial well-being make clearer decisions and navigate the process more effectively.

Begin Thinking About Your Post-Divorce Budget

Your family, at least for the immediate future, will have two households instead of one, which changes financial realities. Start preparing now by:

• Estimating your future living expenses
• Reviewing your income, support needs, and earning capacity
• Identifying financial goals for yourself and your children

A detailed budget helps your attorney advocate more effectively for support, parenting time, and property distribution. This will also help you when the time comes for you to prepare a financial statement, which is an often required document in Maryland family law cases.

Be Cautious with Social Media and Digital Footprints

In modern Maryland divorce litigation, especially custody cases, social media posts will be used as evidence. Therefore, try to avoid posts that:

• Criticize your spouse
• Suggest irresponsible behavior
• Display excessive spending or lifestyle changes
• Involve new romantic partners

Assume every message, post, or photo could be shown in court.

Protect Your Credit and Financial Security

Before filing for divorce, take steps to separate your financial exposure:

• Open individual checking and savings accounts
• Monitor joint accounts for unusual withdrawals
• Change passwords for online banking, email, and cloud storage
• Run your own credit report

These steps protect you without violating any marital property rules.

Schedule a Consultation with a Maryland Divorce Lawyer Early

You don’t have to wait until you are “ready” to file. In fact, the earlier you consult an attorney, the stronger your position will be. Early legal advice can help with:

• Safety planning in abusive relationships
• Timing of filing
• Protecting assets
• Navigating custody issues
• Identifying documentation to collect
• Understanding your rights and obligations

Whether you are in Rockville, Bethesda, Gaithersburg, Clarksburg, or Frederick, planning the right strategy at the beginning often leads to smoother negotiations and better long-term outcomes.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for a divorce in Maryland doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right information, organized planning, and early legal guidance, you can protect your rights, your finances, and your children’s well-being. If you’re considering filing for divorce or simply want to understand your options, reach out to schedule a consultation with me, Christopher Castellano and I can help you determine the proper first step to toward a thoughtful future.

Jay Holland, Veronica Nannis and Gia Grimm will present “Identifying and Litigating the Retaliation Case under the False Claims Act” on September 4, 2025.

The webinar, which is being hosted by the Federal Bar Association, will focus on the anti-retaliation provision of the False Claims Act, 31 U.S.C. § 3730(h), a powerful tool designed to protect whistleblowers from unlawful retaliation. Attendees will gain practical insights into:

• Identifying protected activity under the FCA
• Establishing causation and overcoming evidentiary challenges
• Strategies for effectively representing clients in these complex cases

This program is geared toward both False Claims Act and Labor & Employment practitioners.

Registration will open soon. More details are available on the Federal Bar Association’s website.

On May 9, 2025, Kaitlin Leary appeared on Fox45 Baltimore to discuss a case the firm is pursuing against Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott and the City of Baltimore.

Kaitlin, along with attorney Timothy Maloney from JGL, represents two former Baltimore City employees who allege wrongful termination after their unsuccessful bids for City Council. The employees contend their firings were politically motivated and not based on job performance. Both individuals had been employed by the city for over a decade prior to their dismissal.

Kaitlin emphasized that the case centers around the violation of the clients’ First Amendment rights, which protect personal political beliefs and prohibit government officials from terminating public employees solely for supporting political opponents. She added that the employees seek accountability from the mayor and the city for their actions, stating, “They are looking for justice.”

Watch the Fox45 Baltimore news segment “Former city employees sue Mayor Scott, allege abrupt firings were politically motivated.”

A new year can often see an uptick in divorce and custody filings. If you’re considering taking this step in 2025, below are items for you to consider as you make your preparations:

Documentation

Maintaining documentation is key in any litigation, including domestic filings. Therefore, before you file in 2025, be sure to gather and inventory the following essential documents:

• Two most recent income tax returns
• Two most recent W-2 forms
• The last three months of pay stubs
• The last two years of statements for all your bank accounts
  • If your bank only maintains less than two years online, then the maximum amount of statements you can download
• The last two years of statements for all your retirement and investment accounts
• The last two years of statements for all your credit card accounts
• The last two years of statements for all your life insurance accounts
• The last three months of mortgage statements
• The last three months of vehicle financing statements
• Your vehicle title
• If custody is at issue, then the school records for your children(s)’ school(s), including attendance

Understand Maryland’s Residency Requirements

When initiating a divorce case in Maryland, either you or your spouse must have resided in Maryland for at least six months before filing. If your case involves custody (regardless of whether your case is for divorce or not), Maryland generally must be the child’s “home state,” which means that the child has lived in Maryland for at least six consecutive months before filing.

Understand Maryland’s Grounds for Divorce

Maryland is now a no-fault state when it comes to filing for divorce. This means that most people can file for divorce on three grounds:

• Six-months separation (regardless of whether you remain living in one household);
• Irreconcilable differences (again, regardless of whether you remain living in one household); and
• Mutual Consent (which means you have executed a settlement comprehensive agreement prior to filing for divorce).

Consider Developing a Parenting Plan

If children are involved in your domestic case, consider drafting a detailed parenting plan that addresses the following:

• A physical custody schedule for the children, including where the child(ren) will sleep overnight
• A decision-making authority paradigm regarding major issues related to your child(ren), including for education, healthcare, religious and general welfare matters
• A communication protocol
• Holiday and vacation arrangements
• Transportation arrangements
• Childcare considerations, including a first-right of refusal.

Create a Household Budget

Finances are often the catalyst for divorce filings. Therefore, understanding your own personal finances can be essential prior to initiating a divorce case. Creating a budget can be one of the most important steps you take to understand what your new “financial-normal” will look like. 

Consider Alternative Dispute Resolution

Filing for divorce may not be the right “first-step” for everybody. Many cases can be resolved through alternative dispute resolution (also known as “mediation”). Considering whether or not your dispute has the potential to resolve itself through alternative dispute resolution can result in significant cost savings and reduce conflict between you and your opposing party.

Self-Care and Support Systems

Filing for divorce or custody is not an easy step for anyone to make. Just as it is wise to prepare your documents and budget, you should prepare yourself emotionally as well. This can include the following:

• Establishing a relationship with a therapist
• Maintaining boundaries with family and friends while also ensuring you have a solid support network
• Protecting your privacy on social media (which does not mean deleting information, but rather examining your privacy settings)
• Creating healthy routines for yourself and your children

Consultation with Professionals

One of the most important steps to take is to schedule consultations with appropriate professionals. This usually begins with speaking with an experienced family law attorney to discuss your case and options. From there, you may be guided toward discussions with additional professionals depending on the issues in your case.

Remember that divorce and custody cases require careful planning and consideration. While the new year can often symbolize a fresh start, you should take the time to prepare thoroughly rather than rush to file. The decisions made during this phase of your divorce or custody case will have long-lasting implications for you and your family. 

*Disclaimer: This post provides general information and should not be construed as legal advice. Every case is unique and outcomes depend on specific circumstances. Consult with a qualified attorney to understand how Maryland law applies to your situation.*

Erika Jacobsen White spoke at the American Bar Association’s 18th Annual Labor and Employment Law Conference in New York City on November 15, 2024. Erika presented on the Labor & Employment Law Panel “Lawyer Wellness: Why Are We All so Cranky?” Attendees enjoyed a robust discussion on changing workplace culture, resources for lawyers who are struggling, and best practices to advocate for accommodations and leave.

Joseph, Greenwald & Laake, P.A. has been recognized in the 2025 edition of Best Law Firms® with one practice area ranked nationally and eight ranked regionally in Washington, DC. This is the fifteenth year the firm has been named to the Best Law Firms list.

Achieving a tiered ranking in Best Law Firms on a national and/or metropolitan scale signals a unique credibility within the industry. Firms included in the 2025 Best Law Firms list are recognized for professional excellence with persistently impressive ratings from clients and peers. To be considered for this milestone achievement, at least one lawyer in the law firm must be recognized in the 2025 edition of The Best Lawyers in America®. (View the JGL attorneys named to the 2025 Best Lawyers list.)

The firm received the following rankings in the 2025 edition, expanding its regional rankings with two new practices making the Tier 1 list and two new practices making the Tier 2 list:

National Tier 1

• Appellate Practice

Metropolitan Tier 1

Washington, DC

• Appellate Practice
• Employment Law – Individuals
• Employment Law – Management
• Family Law
• Family Law Mediation (new)
• Medical Malpractice Law – Plaintiffs
• Personal Injury Litigation – Defendants (new)
• Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs

Metropolitan Tier 2

Washington, DC

• Litigation – Trusts and Estates (new)
• Trusts and Estates (new)

Joseph, Greenwald & Laake, P.A., (jgllaw.com) is a trusted law firm serving Washington, D.C., and the suburban Maryland area. For more than 50 years, JGL has represented a variety of clients, including individuals, small businesses and multimillion-dollar corporations. From simple to complex legal needs, the attorneys of JGL are prepared to deliver strategic solutions with high standards.

In an article published on October 27, 2024, by Authority Magazine, Michal Shinnar discusses the requirements for employers under the Americans with Disabilities Act, as well as how businesses can be more welcoming to and inclusive of employees with disabilities. Shinnar highlights examples of reasonable accommodations in the workplace and notes that the best employers are flexible and creative when developing these accommodations.

“In my experience, the best employers take the approach that they want to ensure that employees with disabilities receive the accommodations that they need and see this as an important part of allowing employees to best contribute to the company mission,” said Shinnar.

Read the article “Disability Inclusion In The Workplace: Michal Shinnar Of JGL Law On How Businesses Make Accommodations For Customers and Employees Who Have a Disability” on the Authority Magazine website (subscription required).

Lindsay Parvis, a Principal in the firm’s Family Law practice, has been named a Fellow in the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML). Inclusion in the prestigious Academy is an impressive honor that recognizes Lindsay’s knowledge and skills in family law, as well as her dedication and exceptional work on behalf of JGL’s clients. To be selected for inclusion in the Academy, members must complete a rigorous selection process that includes interviews, examinations, and evaluations by judges and peers.

AAML is the leader in continuing education, publications, networking and training. Since 1962 the organization has operated as a nonprofit association of Family Lawyers who concentrate in all issues related to marriage, divorce, child custody and visitation, annulment, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, matters affecting unmarried cohabitants, business valuation and property distribution, alimony, and support. By demonstrating the highest standards of matrimonial practice, Fellows of the Academy have set the standard for the matrimonial bar and have helped improve the quality of family law practice throughout the country for attorneys and litigants alike.

Valerie Grove has been named to The Daily Record’s 2024 Medical Malpractice & Personal Injury Law Power List. The Power List showcases Maryland’s power players who are leading key organizations, creating change, impacting the community and engaging others to succeed. Individuals named to the Power List were selected by The Daily Record’s editorial team, with input from knowledgeable members of the community.

With more than 20 years of medical malpractice litigation experience, Valerie Grove pursues claims on behalf of injured victims of malpractice. Her knowledge of medical negligence litigation and related health law issues is extensive.

Learn more about Valerie’s award on The Daily Record’s website.

It can be stressful and frustrating when your ex is failing to pay child support. Child support is crucial for covering your child’s needs, ranging from their daily expenses, education expenses, and healthcare costs. When your ex stops paying child support, the strain on your finances can be significant. If you find yourself in this situation, here are some steps you can take to address the issue.

1. Communicate with Your Ex

Before taking legal action, communicating with your ex may prove beneficial. There might be a valid reason for the missed payments, such as job loss, medical issues, or even just a bank transfer error. Understanding your ex’s situation can sometimes lead to a temporary understanding until they can resume regular payments, or at the very least, give you a stronger foundation for legal proceedings.

2. Document Everything

Keep detailed records of all missed payments, including dates and amounts. This documentation will be essential if you decide to initiate legal action. Also, to the extent that you communicated to your ex, as suggested, you should save all communication with your ex regarding child support, which could prove very important.

3. Seek Legal Advice

Consult with a family law attorney to understand your options. An attorney can guide you through the process of enforcing the child support order and help you decide the best course of action.

4. Initiate Legal Proceedings

If your ex is more than thirty days late on their payment, there are several different avenues you could go down. Most are aware of filing for “contempt”, but additional options are available to consider as well, including an enforcement action. The type of legal action can have a significant impact on the end result.

5. Consider State Resources

In Maryland, the Child Support Administration (CSA) within the Department of Human Services can assist in a full range of issues related to child support orders. There are various tools available to the CSA, which can be helpful when enforcing a child support order. 

Conclusion

Dealing with your ex failing to pay child support can be challenging and stressful, but there are steps that you can take to ensure that your child receives the support they need. By communicating with your ex, documenting the non-payment, seeking legal advice, and utilizing the wide array of resources available, the non-payment can be addressed effectively.  

If you have any questions or need assistance with your child support case, please feel free to contact Christopher Castellano or your JGL attorney.