Slip-and-fall accidents can happen to anyone, anywhere, and at any time. They can result from a variety of factors, such as wet floors, damaged sidewalks, uneven stairs, or icy walkways. While no one plans to experience a slip-and-fall accident, it is essential to know what to do in case it happens. If you have been injured in a slip-and-fall accident in Missouri, this blog post will guide you through the first steps to take. We’ll discuss the critical actions that can help protect your health, your rights, and your compensation. Keep reading to learn more.

1. Seek Medical Help

Your health and safety should always be your top priority after a slip-and-fall accident. Even if you don’t feel severe pain or visible injuries, you should still seek medical attention. Some injuries can develop or worsen over time, and you may not even realize their severity until it’s too late. Suppose you feel pain, dizziness, lightheadedness, or even confusion after a slip-and-fall accident. In that case, you must call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room. Otherwise, you can schedule an appointment with your primary care physician or a specialist. They can check for injuries such as broken bones, sprains, bruises, cuts, internal bleeding, head trauma, and spine injuries.

2. Collect Evidence

After seeking medical help, the next step is to collect evidence of the slip-and-fall accident. Evidence can help establish who is liable for your injuries and how much compensation you may be entitled to. Here are some types of evidence you can gather:

– Take photos or videos of the accident scene, including the hazard that caused your fall, any warning signs or barriers, and your injuries.

– Collect contact information from any witnesses who saw the accident, such as their names, phone numbers, and email addresses.

– Save any physical evidence that can link to the accident, such as your torn clothing, broken glasses, or damaged phone.

– Get a copy of the accident report, which should include the date, time, location, and possible causes of the accident, as well as the contact information of the property owner or manager.

3. Fill out an Accident Report

If your slip-and-fall accident happened on someone else’s property, you must report it as soon as possible. Most property owners or managers have a protocol for handling slip-and-fall accidents, which may involve filling out an incident report. The incident report should provide details of the accident, as well as your name, contact information, and injury description. By filling out an accident report, you can document the incident while it’s still fresh in your memory, and the property owner or manager can take corrective action to prevent future accidents. If the property owner or manager refuses to make an accident report, you can contact the police or a slip-and-fall attorney for assistance.

4. Consult a Slip-and-Fall Attorney

If you have sustained injuries in a slip-and-fall accident that was not your fault, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering. However, navigating the legal system can be challenging, especially if you’re recovering from injuries and may not be familiar with Missouri’s laws and regulations. At Troppito Miller Griffin, we can assist Missouri residents with slip-and-fall accidents. Our attorneys have vast experience in personal injury cases and can provide you with the guidance and support you need to recover from your injuries and get the compensation you deserve.

Slip-and-fall accidents can be stressful, painful, and can affect your physical, emotional, and financial well-being. But by following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can take control of the situation, protect your health and rights, and increase your chances of receiving fair compensation. Remember to seek medical help, gather evidence, fill out an accident report, and consult a slip-and-fall attorney if necessary. At Troppito Miller Griffin, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

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Filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy can feel like a daunting task for those struggling financially, but it’s important to understand that it can also be a path to financial freedom. Chapter 7 bankruptcy is the most common type of bankruptcy in Missouri, and it allows individuals to discharge their debts, giving them the opportunity to start fresh.

In this blog post, we’ll be discussing who should file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Missouri. We’ll explore the criteria that must be met in order to file for Chapter 7 and what you can expect during the bankruptcy process. Whether you’re considering filing for bankruptcy or know someone who is, this post will provide valuable information to guide you through the process.

1. Understanding the Means Test

In order to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you must first pass the means test. The means test determines whether your income is low enough to qualify for Chapter 7. Your income must be below the state median income for a household of your size or you must be able to show that you don’t have enough disposable income to pay off your debts. This test requires a detailed analysis of your income, expenses, and debts. An experienced bankruptcy attorney can help you navigate this process and determine whether you qualify for Chapter 7.

2. Criteria for Filing

Apart from the means test, there are other criteria that must be met in order to file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. One of the most important factors is the amount of debt you owe. If you owe more than $394,725 in unsecured debt or $1,184,200 in secured debts, you may not be eligible for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Additionally, you must not have filed for bankruptcy in the previous 8 years and you must not have been denied a discharge in a prior bankruptcy filing.

3. The Bankruptcy Process

Once you’ve determined that you qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you can begin the filing process. This process can take several months and involves filing a petition with the bankruptcy court, attending a meeting of creditors, and completing bankruptcy counseling. During the process, a trustee will be appointed to oversee your case. They’ll review your assets and debts and determine which debts are eligible for discharge. Most of your debts will be discharged within a few months, allowing you to start fresh with a clean slate.

4. The Benefits of Filing for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

Filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy can provide numerous benefits, including the discharge of most of your debts, the ability to keep certain assets, and the opportunity to rebuild your credit. Once your debt is discharged, you’ll be free from the burden of struggling to make monthly payments and facing collection calls from creditors. You’ll also be able to keep certain assets, such as your home and car (depending on the value and equity), which can help you maintain your quality of life. Moreover, filing for bankruptcy signals a fresh start and allows you to begin rebuilding your credit.

Chapter 7 bankruptcy can be a viable option for those drowning in debt and struggling to make ends meet in Missouri. If you’re considering bankruptcy, it’s vital to understand the criteria for filing and the bankruptcy process. Consulting with an experienced bankruptcy attorney can help you determine whether filing for Chapter 7 is the right option for you. At the end of the day, filing for bankruptcy can provide a fresh start and pave the way for a brighter financial future.

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Being accused of theft is not only a stressful experience, but it can also lead to severe legal consequences. The state of Missouri has specific laws regarding theft, meaning that the charges you may be facing will depend on the value of the stolen property and other circumstances. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at theft in the first, second, and third degrees in Missouri and how an attorney can help you.

Theft in the first degree is the most severe charge and applies to theft of property or service worth $25,000 or more. If convicted, you could face up to 30 years in prison or a fine of up to $5,000. Additionally, you may have to pay restitution to the victim(s) of the theft. In some cases, persistent offenders can receive a life sentence.

Theft in the second degree is less severe and applies to theft of property or services worth between $750 and $25,000. If convicted, you could face up to seven years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. Similarly to first-degree theft, you may be required to pay restitution to the victim(s).

Theft in the third degree is the least severe charge and applies to theft of property or services worth less than $750. If convicted, you could face up to one year in prison and a fine of up to $1,000. However, the punishment can be more severe if the victim is a senior citizen, disabled person, or a child.

If you are facing any degree of theft charges, it’s crucial to seek the help of an experienced attorney. A skilled attorney can help you build a solid defense strategy and protect your rights. Moreover, they may be able to negotiate a plea bargain, which can result in lesser charges or a more lenient sentence.

Your attorney will also be able to help you understand the charges you are facing and the potential consequences. They can help you prepare for court appearances and make sure that your rights are not violated in the legal process. In some cases, they may even be able to get the charges dismissed.

Being accused of theft is a serious matter, and the charges you are facing depend on the value of the stolen property or services, among other factors. Theft in the first degree is the most severe charge, while third-degree theft is the least severe. No matter what degree of the charge you are facing, it’s crucial to seek the help of an experienced attorney who can protect your rights and help you build a solid defense strategy. With the right legal guidance, you can navigate the legal system more confidently and effectively.

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It’s a well-known fact that being charged with a crime can lead to dire consequences. While felony charges typically carry more severe penalties than misdemeanors, the latter can still have significant and lasting effects on your life. If you’re a Missouri resident who has recently been charged with a misdemeanor, it’s essential to understand the potential penalties you may face. In this blog post, we’ll cover some of the most common consequences of misdemeanor charges in Missouri.

1. Jail Time

While misdemeanor charges are generally less severe than felony charges, they can still result in significant jail time. In Missouri, the maximum jail sentence for a Class A misdemeanor is one year. Class A misdemeanors include crimes such as assault, theft, and drug possession. Class B misdemeanors, which include crimes such as disorderly conduct and possession of drug paraphernalia, are punishable by up to six months in jail.

2. Fines

In addition to jail time, misdemeanors can also lead to hefty fines. The amount of the fine you’ll have to pay may vary depending on the specific crime you’re charged with, but it can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. For example, a Class A misdemeanor in Missouri can lead to a fine of up to $2,000, while a Class B misdemeanor can lead to a fine of up to $1,000.

3. Probation

Probation is a common penalty for people charged with misdemeanors. If you’re placed on probation, you’ll be required to meet certain conditions, such as regularly checking in with a probation officer, attending drug or alcohol counseling, or completing community service. Probation can last for months or even years, depending on the severity of the crime you’re charged with.

4. License Suspension

Certain misdemeanor charges, such as DUI and drug possession, can lead to the suspension of your driver’s license. If your license is suspended, you won’t be able to legally drive for a certain period of time. In Missouri, the length of a license suspension for a DUI conviction can range from 30 days to a year, depending on the driver’s prior history.

5. Criminal Record

Perhaps the most significant penalty of a misdemeanor conviction is the long-term effect it can have on your criminal record. A criminal record can make it challenging to find employment, obtain housing, or apply for loans. Even if your misdemeanor charge seems like a minor offense, it can still have significant consequences for your future.

It’s crucial to understand the potential penalties of misdemeanor charges in Missouri. Whether you’re facing jail time, fines, probation, license suspension, or a criminal record, the effects of a misdemeanor conviction can be long-lasting. If you’re facing misdemeanor charges, it’s important to seek the advice of an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a legal professional to ensure that you’re fully prepared to face the potential consequences of your charges.

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If you’ve been injured at work, you may be wondering what your rights are and if your employer is responsible for compensating you for your injuries. The answer to that question largely depends on the details of your situation. In this blog, we’ll cover some general information about workers’ compensation laws in Missouri and what you can expect if you find yourself injured on the job.

First and foremost, it’s important to understand that Missouri law requires most employers to provide workers’ compensation insurance coverage for their employees. This means that if you are injured on the job, you may be entitled to benefits that cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, such as for domestic employees and volunteers, so it’s important to understand your specific situation and your employer’s insurance policy.

If you are injured at work, the first step you should take is to report the injury to your employer as soon as possible. Under Missouri law, you have 30 days to report a workplace injury in order to receive workers’ compensation benefits. If you fail to report the injury within that timeframe, your employer may be able to deny your claim.

Once you’ve reported the injury, your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance company will investigate your claim and determine whether you are eligible for benefits. If your claim is approved, you may be eligible for benefits such as medical treatment, temporary total disability (TTD) payments if you are unable to work, and permanent partial disability (PPD) payments if you have a permanent injury or disability.

It’s worth noting that sometimes employers or their insurance companies will deny a workers’ compensation claim, either by arguing that the injury wasn’t work-related or by disputing the severity of the injury. In these cases, it may be necessary to seek legal assistance to appeal the denial and fight for your right to benefits. That’s where Troppito Miller Griffin, LLC can help. Our attorneys have experience representing Missouri residents in workers’ compensation matters and can help you navigate the complex legal process of appealing a denied claim.

Being injured at work can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, but it’s important to remember that you have rights and protections under Missouri law. If you are injured on the job, report the injury to your employer as soon as possible and familiarize yourself with your employer’s workers’ compensation policy. If your claim is denied, don’t hesitate to contact an experienced attorney for assistance. At Troppito Miller Griffin, LLC, we’re committed to helping Missouri residents get the benefits they need and deserve after a workplace injury.

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