The Legal Podcast Network

Appaling Your Property Taxes: What To Expect During The Process

Episode Summary
In this episode of Devine Intervention, host Kevin Rosenquist sits down with Nora Devine, a seasoned Illinois property tax attorney, to discuss the biggest mistakes property owners make when appealing their property tax assessments. From failing to check property records for errors to making legally irrelevant arguments, Nora breaks down what not to do if you want to successfully appeal your property tax assessment. She also shares expert insights on why understanding local assessor dynamics, gathering the right evidence, and avoiding excessive or misleading data are key to winning an appeal.
Timestamps
00:00 – Introduction to Devine Intervention and today’s topic: How to Lose Your Property Tax Appeal00:05 – Meet Nora Devine: Property tax attorney with statewide experience in Illinois00:43 – The #1 rule: First, do no harm – Why checking your property record card is crucial02:23 – Understanding the risks: Could your appeal actually increase your tax bill?03:00 – Why talking to your local assessor first can improve your appeal’s chances06:13 – Common mistakes: Why arguing that your taxes have doubled won’t work06:50 – What makes a legally relevant argument? The key data points you need07:55 – How to compare your property to others the right way08:58 – The role of personal bias in property valuations – Do people overestimate or underestimate their property’s value?10:50 – How property tax assessments differ inside and outside of Cook County11:16 – Is too much data a bad thing? When to include or exclude information in your appeal14:51 – When should you contact a property tax attorney?15:24 – Closing thoughts and how to connect with Nora Devine
About the Show
Devine Intervention is a podcast dedicated to shedding light on Illinois property tax, helping property owners navigate the complex appeals process, and providing expert insights from Nora Devine, a top property tax attorney. Whether you're a homeowner or a commercial property owner, this podcast provides the knowledge you need to make informed tax decisions.

The Impact of Family-Based Visas on Businesses Hiring Foreign Workers: Opportunities and Challenges

Episode Summary
In this episode of US Immigrant: Journey, Opportunities, and Challenges, host Kevin Rosenquist sits down with immigration attorney Edwin Fogam to discuss the impact of family-based visas on businesses hiring foreign workers. Edwin, with over 25 years of legal experience, breaks down the intersection of family-based and employment-based immigration, explaining the challenges, benefits, and legal pathways available for businesses and workers.
Topics include how family-based visas affect employee retention, the role of employers in facilitating family immigration, and the legal complexities of these visa categories. If you're an employer looking to hire foreign talent or a worker navigating the immigration system, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you make informed decisions.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Welcome to US Immigrant: Journey, Opportunities, and Challenges
00:02 – Introduction of guest, attorney Edwin Fogam
00:32 – How family-based and employment-based visas intersect
01:38 – The impact of family members on an employee’s decision to stay in the US
02:31 – Can family members join a worker in the US under a family-based visa?
03:47 – Challenges for businesses hiring workers with family-based immigration cases
04:43 – What happens if a family-based visa is delayed or denied?
05:49 – Understanding H-4 visas for family members of H-1B workers
07:09 – Do family-based visa categories affect a company’s ability to sponsor foreign workers?
08:08 – How employers can assist in family-based immigration cases
10:22 – How an immigration attorney helps businesses and workers navigate the process
11:12 – Why immigration law is more complex than it seems
12:12 – Do employers inquire about family-based visas when hiring foreign workers?
13:24 – Why hiring an immigration attorney is crucial in today’s legal climate
13:46 – Closing thoughts & how to connect with Edwin Fogam
 
About the Show:
US Immigrant: Journey, Opportunities, and Challenges is a podcast dedicated to helping individuals and businesses navigate the US immigration system. Hosted by Kevin Rosenquist, the show features expert insights from experienced immigration attorneys to guide listeners through the legal, professional, and personal aspects of immigration.

Mastering The Art Of Trial

Episode Summary: 
 In this episode, we delve into what makes David Drwencke's approach to criminal defense unique, from his extensive experience as a judicial law clerk to his meticulous trial strategies. David shares how his time observing hundreds of trials and interviewing jurors gave him unparalleled insights into courtroom dynamics. Learn about the art of jury selection, how defense attorneys can effectively challenge the state’s burden of proof, and why focusing on evidence—not personality—wins cases. 
 
Timestamps: 
00:09 – Introduction: Meet David Drwencke and discover the focus of today’s episode: his unique courtroom approach. 
00:46 – Pre-Attorney Experience: Seven years as a judicial law clerk gave David invaluable trial and jury insights. 
05:02 – Evolution of Strategy: The shift from relying on personality to focusing on evidence and the state’s burden of proof. 
07:39 – The State’s Burden of Proof: Why educating jurors about “reasonable doubt” is critical for the defense. 
13:58 – Jury Selection Techniques: How understanding psychology, context, and subtle cues leads to better jury outcomes. 
19:42 – Challenges in Jury Selection: The limitations of the process and how to maximize the available information. 
20:22 – Closing Remarks: How to connect with David Drwencke and stay updated on future episodes. 
About the Show: 
 
Defending the Windy City is a podcast for anyone interested in criminal defense, whether you’re navigating the legal system, supporting a loved one, or simply curious about the art of courtroom strategy. Join attorney David Drwencke as he breaks down the complexities of Chicago’s legal landscape, offering listeners an insider’s perspective on criminal defense and trial preparation. 
 

Common Mistakes That Federal Employees Make When They Are First Making Their Accommodation Requests

Episode Summary:
In this episode, host Kevin Rosenquist and federal employment attorney Eric L. Pines discuss the common mistakes federal employees make when requesting workplace accommodations. With recent policy changes affecting federal employees, it's more important than ever to understand your rights under the Rehabilitation Act (ADA for federal employees). Eric shares insights on the interactive process, how to effectively communicate accommodation requests, and what steps to take if a request is denied or delayed.
Key Topics & Timestamps:
[00:00] Introduction to the Show
Overview of Empowering Workers and introduction to Eric L. Pines
[00:47] Common Mistakes When Requesting Accommodations
Not submitting a formal written request
Assuming full-time remote work is a protected right
The importance of demonstrating how an accommodation allows essential job functions
[03:56] What to Do If Your Request Faces Delays
Following up with agencies
When to escalate and file a claim
The importance of legal representation in prolonged cases
[05:27] Steps to Take If an Accommodation Request is Denied
Asking for reconsideration
How often you can request accommodations
Strengthening your request with medical documentation
[07:16] Effectively Communicating Your Needs
How to articulate why an accommodation is necessary
The role of a doctor’s letter in the process
Avoiding pitfalls that could lead to job termination
[10:52] Legal Recourse for Failure to Engage in the Interactive Process
What to do if an agency refuses to engage
Understanding "effective accommodations" vs. "preferred accommodations"
Filing an EEO case for failure to accommodate
[13:30] Best Practices to Avoid Common Pitfalls
Researching the Rehabilitation Act and ADA
Leveraging resources like the Job Accommodation Network (JAN)
When to consult an attorney for assistance
[14:30] Conclusion & How to Connect
Visit pinesfederal.com for legal assistance
Like, subscribe, and leave a review to support the podcast
About the Show:
Empowering Workers: Federal Employees Disability and Employment Rights and Social Security Disability for All is a podcast dedicated to helping federal employees navigate their employment rights, accommodations, and social security disability benefits. Hosted by Kevin Rosenquist, the show features expert insights from Eric L. Pines, a nationally recognized federal employment lawyer.

Supporting VA Doctors and Nurses: A Guide to Representation, Reasonable Accommodations & Disability Retirement

Episode Summary
In this episode, Eric Pines discusses key issues related to the representation and accommodation of VA doctors and nurses (Title 38 employees), covering topics such as reasonable accommodations, disability retirement, and the unique challenges these professionals face. Eric explains the different types of VA employees and their rights, as well as the processes involved in requesting accommodations and handling denials. He also shares his firm’s approach to advocating for VA employees, offering resources and insights into how employees can navigate the system to protect their rights.
 
Timestamps:
[00:00-00:30] Introduction to the episode and guest, Eric Pines.[00:31-01:45] Eric explains the differences between Title V and Title 38 employees, focusing on VA medical professionals.[01:46-02:53] Hybrid Title 38 employees explained.[03:00-05:25] Discussion on accommodation requests for VA doctors and nurses, with examples of common accommodations.[05:26-06:45] Eric talks about the overwhelming workload for VA medical staff and the impact on their wellbeing.[06:46-08:20] How Title 38 affects employment rights for VA doctors and nurses, and the limits of their protections.[08:21-09:40] Explaining the Disciplinary Appeals Board (DAB) and how it handles disciplinary actions for VA medical professionals.[09:41-12:07] Steps for requesting reasonable accommodations at the VA and the interactive process.[12:08-13:34] What to do if a reasonable accommodation request is denied.[13:35-15:40] Examples of successful accommodations secured by Eric’s firm.[15:41-18:43] How Eric's firm helps VA employees through various services, including educational resources and case reviews.
 
About The Show
Empowering Workers is a podcast that provides valuable insights and practical advice for federal employees facing workplace challenges. Hosted by legal experts, the show covers a range of topics including workers' rights, disability accommodations, employment laws, and the unique legal protections available to federal workers. Each episode features in-depth discussions with experienced attorneys and professionals who offer actionable strategies for navigating the complexities of federal employment, from dealing with harassment and discrimination to understanding the intricacies of medical leave and retirement options. The podcast is an essential resource for federal employees seeking to understand and protect their rights in the workplace.

Cracking the Code: Navigating OPM Disability and Social Security Disability Claims

Episode SummaryIn this episode of Empowering Workers, host Kevin Rosenquist chats with Eric L. Pines, a nationally recognized federal employment lawyer, about navigating the complexities of OPM Disability and Social Security Disability claims. Eric shares insights into the nuances of these systems, the unique benefits available to federal employees, and the importance of having legal representation to ensure a smooth and successful claims process. Whether you’re a federal employee or anyone seeking Social Security Disability, this episode is packed with invaluable advice.
 
Timestamps:
[00:00-00:09] Intro to Empowering Workers podcast.
[00:09-00:52] Host Kevin Rosenquist introduces Eric L. Pines and the episode’s focus.
[00:52-01:56] Eric’s background and inspiration for specializing in disability law.
[01:56-03:29] Overview of OPM Disability and Social Security Disability benefits.
[03:29-06:03] Why OPM Disability is a "spectacular benefit" and its financial advantages.
[06:03-07:39] Real-world example of leveraging disability benefits while working part-time.
[07:39-09:24] Misconceptions about legal representation in disability cases.
[09:24-11:26] The attorney's role in creating a compelling, complete application.
[11:26-12:56] Challenges in the process for federal employees and the value of legal help.
[12:56-14:26] Addressing nuances in federal disability forms and agency coordination.
[14:26-16:19] Appeal process for denied claims and how attorneys can assist.
[16:19-16:55] Final advice: don’t navigate this complex process alone!
 
About The Show
"Empowering Workers: Federal Employees, Disability, and Employment Rights, and Social Security Disability for All" is a podcast dedicated to helping federal employees and all Americans navigate the complexities of employment and disability rights. Hosted by Kevin Rosenquist and featuring nationally recognized federal employment lawyer Eric L. Pines, the show breaks down critical topics such as OPM disability retirement, Social Security disability claims, workplace accommodations, and legal representation. With practical insights and real-world advice, this podcast empowers listeners to better understand their rights and options, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge needed to advocate for themselves.

Federal Disability Claims 101: Early Intervention Can Make All the Difference

Episode Summary
In this episode of Empowering Workers: Federal Employees, Disability and Employment Rights, and Social Security Disability for All, host Kevin Rosenquist talks with Eric Pines, a renowned federal employment lawyer, about the basics of federal disability claims. They explore common challenges federal employees face when applying for disability benefits, strategies to overcome denials, and the essential documentation required for a successful application. Eric also discusses the potential financial benefits of disability retirement, the timeline for approval, and advice for navigating the process effectively.
 
Timestamps:
[00:01-00:10] Introduction to Empowering Workers and the episode’s focus on federal disability claims.[00:10-00:44] Host Kevin Rosenquist introduces Eric Pines, a federal employment lawyer and expert in disability claims.[00:44-01:07] Discussion kicks off: challenges federal employees face when denied disability coverage.[01:07-01:55] Overview of the disability application process and its intersections with reasonable accommodations.[01:55-03:21] Strategies for overlapping disability claims and discrimination cases; importance of a strong initial application.[03:21-05:46] Key documents required for federal disability claims, including the doctor’s letter, Social Security application, and OPM forms.[05:46-07:40] Navigating lengthy processing times and handling interim periods of unemployment or limited work.[07:40-08:27] Financial benefits of federal disability retirement: salary percentages, pension contributions, and health benefits.[08:27-10:42] Advice for staying employed or requesting light-duty assignments during the claims process.[10:42-12:41] Role of medical documentation in the approval process and why denials often occur.[12:41-14:28] Addressing common reasons for denial and how definitions of “disability” vary across agencies.[14:28-16:23] Final advice for handling denials, the value of legal representation, and the life-changing potential of successful claims.[16:23-16:49] Closing remarks and encouragement to connect with Pines Federal for support.
 
About the ShowEmpowering Workers: Federal Employees, Disability and Employment Rights, and Social Security Disability for All is a podcast dedicated to helping federal employees and workers nationwide navigate the complexities of employment and disability rights. Hosted by Kevin Rosenquist and featuring insights from Eric Pines, a renowned federal employment lawyer, the show covers topics such as reasonable accommodations, disability retirement, social security benefits, and workplace discrimination. With practical advice, expert guidance, and actionable solutions, the podcast aims to empower workers to protect their rights and make informed decisions about their careers and benefits.

Ensuring Equal Access: Advocating for Federal Employees’ Accommodation Rights

Episode Summary
In this episode of Empowering Workers: Federal Employees, Disability, and Employment Rights, host Kevin Rosenquist talks with Eric Pines, a federal employment lawyer specializing in disability accommodations and Social Security claims. They explore Eric’s career journey and his passion for advocating for federal employees’ rights, particularly in workplace accommodations and disability cases. The discussion covers practical advice for federal employees on navigating the accommodation process, understanding legal protections under the Rehabilitation Act and ADA, and handling denials or potential retaliation. Eric also shares insights on the importance of early legal intervention and strategies to foster collaboration between employees and employers.
 
Timestamps:
[00:00-00:30] Introduction to the show and host Kevin Rosenquist.
[00:31-01:02] Meet Eric Pines: A leader in federal employment law.
[01:03-02:28] Eric's career journey and passion for disability rights.
[02:29-04:51] The importance of workplace accommodations for employees and agencies.
[04:52-06:31] First steps for employees requesting accommodations.
[06:32-07:43] Legal eligibility for accommodations.
[07:44-09:48] Documentation and proof for accommodation requests.
[09:49-11:00] Initiating the accommodation process with supervisors or HR.
[11:01-12:19] Common accommodation requests: Work-from-home and medical leave.
[12:20-14:19] Addressing employer concerns and navigating pushback.
[14:20-15:39] Responding to accommodation denials and filing complaints.
[15:40-16:10] The importance of early legal advice and maintaining good relationships.
[16:11-16:59] The unique role of Eric Pines’ firm in assisting federal employees.
 
About The Show
Empowering Workers: Federal Employees, Disability and Employment Rights, and Social Security Disability for All is a podcast dedicated to advocating for federal employees and individuals navigating disability and employment challenges. Hosted by Kevin Rosenquist and featuring expert insights from attorney Eric Pines, the show dives into critical topics like workplace accommodations, employee rights, and social security disability claims. With actionable advice and compassionate discussions, each episode empowers listeners with knowledge and tools to overcome legal and professional hurdles.

How to Handle Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Claims in Texas

Episode Summary:
In this episode of Secrets of Personal Injury Law, host Abigail Vaca sits down with experienced personal injury attorney Colin Bober to discuss uninsured and underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) claims in Texas. Colin explains what UM/UIM coverage is, the steps to take after an accident with an uninsured driver, how Texas law handles these claims, and strategies for negotiating with insurance companies. Whether you’re a driver looking to protect yourself or someone navigating a claim, this episode is packed with expert insights.
Timestamps:
[00:00] Introduction to Secrets of Personal Injury Law and today’s topic[00:28] What is uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage?[02:03] Steps to take immediately after an accident with an uninsured/underinsured driver[03:06] How Texas law treats UM/UIM claims and how attorneys handle them[04:17] Compensation expectations for UM/UIM claims[05:14] Common challenges when dealing with insurance companies[06:10] Strategies for negotiating with your insurance provider[07:41] What to do if your insurance company denies or undervalues your claim[08:35] Final thoughts and closing
About the Show:
Secrets of Personal Injury Law with Colin Bober provides expert insights into personal injury cases, legal strategies, and practical advice for navigating the claims process. With over 4,000 clients and $50 million in settlements, Colin brings his extensive experience to help listeners understand their rights and maximize their claims.
 

What’s at Stake? Understanding Asset Disputes

Episode Summary
In this episode of Law & Life – TheLevoritz’s Approach, attorney Yonatan Levoritz breaks down the complexities of asset disputes in divorce cases. He explores the most commonly contested assets, such as real estate, cash withdrawals, and business interests, while shedding light on fraudulent transfers and the impact of marital waste. Yonatan also discusses how assets are valued, the legal principles guiding their division, and what happens when one spouse tries to hide or devalue business assets. If you’re facing a contentious divorce or just want to understand the stakes, this episode is packed with valuable insights.
Timestamps
00:00 – Welcome to Law & Life – TheLevoritz’s Approach00:04 – Introduction to the episode and guest, Attorney Yonatan Levoritz00:42 – What is a contentious asset dispute?01:26 – Most common assets contested in divorce02:06 – Fraudulent real estate transfers in divorce cases03:17 – How fraudulent asset transfers impact legal proceedings04:01 – Legal principles guiding asset division in divorce05:37 – The difference between community property and equitable distribution06:46 – How judges view contentious divorces and their impact on asset division07:36 – Identifying and valuing assets in divorce cases08:10 – Common valuation approaches for businesses09:21 – How business ownership impacts asset division10:48 – Payouts for spouses from business interests11:42 – The challenges of dividing assets in a contentious divorce12:09 – High-profile examples of business disputes in divorce12:17 – Steps to take if a spouse is hiding or undervaluing assets13:25 – The role of expert witnesses in asset valuation14:09 – Closing thoughts and how to connect with YoniLevoritz
About the Show
Law & Life – The Levoritz’s Approach is a podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of legal issues and real-life challenges. Hosted by Kevin Rosenquist and featuring esteemed attorney Yonatan Levroritz, the show offers expert insights on family law, divorce, and asset disputes, helping listeners navigate complex legal matters with clarity and confidence.