Keith Donovan
Keith Donovan is a Blue Gold Basketball Board of Trustees member.   Blue Gold Basketball benefits Best Buddies of Delaware, which is a non-profit organization with a mission of integrating people with intellectual and developmental disabilities into their schools and communities through peer mentoring and friendship programs.  Mr. Donovan also represents children in Family Court as their Guardian Ad Litem Attorney through the Office of Child Advocate. He is a softball coach for MOT girls, coaching ages 7-8 last year, moving up to ages 8-9 this coming year.

Susan D’Alonzo Ament
Susan Ament represents children in Family Court as their Guardian Ad Litem Attorney through the Office of Child Advocate.  She is the past President of the Board of Directors of the Bayard House, a residential home for pregnant girls.  She was a foster mother of two teenage girls who lived in her home.

Kevin Healy
Kevin Healy is a Development Committee member of St. Paul School in Wilmington.   He also represents children in Family Court as their Guardian Ad Litem Attorney through the Office of Child Advocate.   He has also served as one of the Archmere Academy coaches for High School Mock Trial for the last 5 years.
Most recently, the Morris James Personal Injury Group has participated in a program with Howard School of Technology where, during their senior year at Howard, participating students go to school half day and then work half day in their career field of choice.  The Morris James Personal Injury Group was fortunate to have several students placed in our offices.  While the students work half days in our office, our goal is to educate them about careers in the legal field and to mentor those students as they proceed to college and pursue careers in law.

This year, we enjoyed working with Howard High School seniors, Brandee Fleming and Tiffany Hawkes.

Tiffany Hawkes
Tiffany, who is a native Delawarean and grew up in Wilmington, graduated from Howard High this year.  Tiffany plans to attend Widener University in the fall and focus on paralegal studies with a concentration in real estate.  She hopes to be a Real Estate Attorney one day.

Brandee Fleming
Brandee, a New Jersey native, moved to Delaware at the age of 17 and attended Howard, graduating this year.  Brandee was active in the Mock Trial Competition and plans on attending Wilmington University in the fall to study Criminal Justice, including psychology, sociology and legal studies. She hopes to one day be a Criminal Defense Attorney.

A prior program of the Morris James Personal Injury Group involved Scholarships to High School seniors. Delaware Seniors were invited to write essays pertaining to teen driving and safety precautions. Each winner was presented with a Scholarship Award and plaque at their High School by one of our attorneys.

The Morris James Personal Injury Attorneys are honored to be able to have the opportunity to devote their time to these efforts, to give back to the community, and to be an intrical part of mentoring youth.

By Susan D. Ament, Esq.

The City of Wilmington, Delaware has issued a substitution to Ordinance No. 09-041 regarding the use of mobile phones within its city limits. Following are some highlights of the new ordinance.

Whereas, the City Council deems it necessary and appropriate to enact provisions regarding the restricted use of a mobile telephone such that no person shall use a mobile telephone while operating a moving motor vehicle or while riding a bicycle unless the telephone or devise is equipped with a hands-free accessory.

The Council of the City of Wilmington hereby Ordains:
Section 1. Chapter 37 of the City Code is hereby amended by adding thereto a new § 37-196 to read as follows:
Section 37-196. Restrictions on use of a mobile telephone; civil offense.
(a) Definitions. For purposes of this section the following terms shall be applicable.
(1) “Hands-free accessory” means an attachment, add-on, built-in feature, or addition to a mobile telephone.
(2) “Mobile telephone” means a cellular, analog, wireless or digital telephone capable of sending or receiving telephone messages without an access line for service.
(3) “Use” means talking, placing, or receiving a call, or attempting to place or receive a call or texting or attempting to send a text, or email on a mobile telephone or other electronic devices.
(b) Restricted use of mobile telephone
(1) No person shall use a mobile telephone while operating a moving motor vehicle or while riding a bicycle in the City of Wilmington unless the telephone or devise is equipped with a hands-free accessory.
(2) The provisions of this section shall not apply to the following:
a. Emergency use of a mobile telephone, including calls to 911, a hospital, an ambulance service provider, a fire department, a law enforcement agency, or a first-aid squad; and
b. Use of a mobile telephone by law enforcement and emergency personnel or by a driver of an authorized emergency vehicle, acting within the scope of official duties.
(c) Enforcement; fine and penalties.
(1) A violation of the provisions of this section shall constitute a civil offense with a penalty of $50, payable to the City of Wilmington Finance Department, Revenue Division.
Section 2. Effective date. This Substitute Ordinance shall be deemed effective on January 1, 2010.

Susan D’Alonzo Ament is a partner with Morris James LLP and has practiced for 25 years representing personal injury victims. Over the years, Mrs. Ament has found that some women don’t understand the crucial need to have adequate automobile insurance coverage in the event of a serious accident. Susan Ament educates women on these needs every day in her practice and in seminars that she presents throughout the year.
Morrisjamespersonalinjurylawyers.com
Se Habla Espanol
302-651-3589

By Attorney Rory Colton Godowsky

Let’s talk.  It seems like a simple suggestion, but for many people this is a difficult task. Trying to communicate can sometimes cause insurmountable stress. From the classroom to the boardroom to the bedroom, people find talking out issues is impossible. The good news is that, when it comes to resolving conflict, these communication skills can be learned. Whether there are problems at work, issues with your spouse or other family members, or simply a dispute with a neighbor, working with a mediator to facilitate an agreement can be beneficial. Often just having a third party neutral, which is what a mediator is, can give the parties a new perspective on a problem.

When I first became a lawyer, almost thirty years ago, the goal of most people was to fight until someone became so exhausted from the struggle that they gave in to the other person or allowed a judge to make a decision, leaving both parties lacking what they really wanted. Unfortunately, the system at that time did not encourage people to take control of their own destiny. Litigation was synonymous with war, and no one came out feeling victorious.

Today, however, there are options to duking it out when a relationship is dissolving. The process known as mediation allows parties to work with a third party who is a neutral to sort out the details involved in the finalization of the matters. In this setting, the parties are able to explain to the mediator and the other party what their goals are and how they would like to proceed to work out the issues.

When the parties decide that they would like to pursue mediation, there is an initial meeting scheduled. At that time, the parties and the mediator have an informal discussion about the issues and what, if anything, the parties have already agreed upon. There are a series of sessions held until all issues are resolved. Once the parties have finalized all matters, the mediator will prepare an agreement that becomes a contract between the parties. The mediation can take place face to face in the mediator’s office, online, or on the telephone in a three way teleconference.  This process is not only faster than litigation; it is also more convenient.

Most people who have been through the process are pleased because of the relationship they have been able to retain and, in many instances, develop with the other party. The mediator at all times remains a neutral party. In this capacity, the mediator can not give legal advice to either party. The mediator can, however, help the parties figure out options that would be beneficial in the agreement and guide them through the process as well as helping them to learn to communicate about their differences rather than argue.

Although mediation seems like a new process, it is becoming more and more popular throughout the country.  Most people prefer to resolve their differences amicably, despite what they may feel initially, and are happy to be able to control the outcome of their future. Mediation is a confidential process, and nothing that is said at mediation can be used in a court proceeding. The mediator cannot be called to court as a witness and generally will not speak to one party without the other’s knowledge. There are some instances, however, where the parties will be in two different rooms and the mediator will go back and forth to discuss the party’s position. This may be at the request of one of the parties or the premise of the mediator that an agreement will be more likely if the parties are in separate rooms.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. What if the other person does not want to come? Mediation is voluntary and if a party initially is hesitant, they can contact the mediator for a brief overview of the process or agree to come to the initial meeting.

2. Is mediation more expensive than going through the litigation process? Generally, people find mediation to be considerably less expensive than going through litigation.

3. How much time will it take to get everything settled? This actually depends on how many issues are involved and how far apart the parties are. Some people finish in a few sessions while other people require more time to come to an agreement.

4. What are the issues that can be worked out at mediation? Any issues that are in dispute between parties can be resolved at mediation. In a divorce mediation case, this would include working out a parenting plan, support, property division, and costs.

5. What if we can’t come to an agreement? If mediation does not work out the parties can seek help through attorneys and return to mediation at any time.

For more information, or to schedule a consultation, contact Attorney Godowsky at 302-654-4557, or email legalmom1012@gmail.com.

Rory Godowsky has been practicing law in Delaware for almost 30 years. She is a graduate of Widener University School of Law and has been in private practice with an emphasis on Family Law and Personal Injury.

Additionally, Rory has been involved in the practice of Mediation for almost 20 years. She has had extensive training in Superior Court Mediation, Family Mediation and Adult Guardianship Mediation. She is a member of the American Bar Association, Delaware State Bar Association, American Trial Lawyers Association, and Delaware Trial Lawyers Association. She was previously a Commissioner on the Delaware Commission for Women and a member of the Family Law and Alternate Dispute Resolution Sections of the Delaware State Bar Association. Additionally, she is a member of the International Alliance of Holistic Lawyers, the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, the Association for Conflict Resolution, and the Parenting Coordination Council of Delaware.

Rory has found the practice of law coupled with being married and raising two children an interesting “juggling act.” She believes in peaceful conflict resolution and her mediation practice consists of divorce mediation, parent/child mediation, and work related mediation.

Rory is married to Steven Godowsky and has two children, Dean and Sami. To relax, Rory likes to do yoga and meditation.

By: Attorney Rory Colton Godowsky

Let’s talk.  It seems like a simple suggestion, but for many people this is a difficult task. Trying to communicate can sometimes cause insurmountable stress. From the classroom to the boardroom to the bedroom, people find talking out issues is impossible. The good news is that, when it comes to resolving conflict, these communication skills can be learned. Whether there are problems at work, issues with your spouse or other family members, or simply a dispute with a neighbor, working with a mediator to facilitate an agreement can be beneficial. Often just having a third party neutral, which is what a mediator is, can give the parties a new perspective on a problem.

When I first became a lawyer, almost thirty years ago, the goal of most people was to fight until someone became so exhausted from the struggle that they gave in to the other person or allowed a judge to make a decision, leaving both parties lacking what they really wanted. Unfortunately, the system at that time did not encourage people to take control of their own destiny. Litigation was synonymous with war, and no one came out feeling victorious.

Today, however, there are options to duking it out when a relationship is dissolving. The process known as mediation allows parties to work with a third party who is a neutral to sort out the details involved in the finalization of the matters. In this setting, the parties are able to explain to the mediator and the other party what their goals are and how they would like to proceed to work out the issues.

When the parties decide that they would like to pursue mediation, there is an initial meeting scheduled. At that time, the parties and the mediator have an informal discussion about the issues and what, if anything, the parties have already agreed upon.

There are a series of sessions held until all issues are resolved. Once the parties have finalized all matters, the mediator will prepare an agreement that becomes a contract between the parties. The mediation can take place face to face in the mediator’s office, online, or on the telephone in a three way teleconference.    This process is not only faster than litigation; it is also more convenient.

Most people who have been through the process are pleased because of the relationship they have been able to retain and, in many instances, develop with the other party.

The mediator at all times remains a neutral party. In this capacity, the mediator can not give legal advice to either party. The mediator can, however, help the parties figure out options that would be beneficial in the agreement and guide them through the process as well as helping them to learn to communicate about their differences rather than argue.

Although mediation seems like a new process, it is becoming more and more popular throughout the country. Most people prefer to resolve their differences amicably, despite what they may feel initially, and are happy to be able to control the outcome of their future.

Mediation is a confidential process, and nothing that is said at mediation can be used in a court proceeding. The mediator cannot be called to court as a witness and generally will not speak to one party without the other’s knowledge. There are some instances, however, where the parties will be in two different rooms and the mediator will go back and forth to discuss the party’s position. This may be at the request of one of the parties or the premise of the mediator that an agreement will be more likely if the parties are in separate rooms.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What if the other person does not want to come?

Mediation is voluntary and if a party initially is hesitant, they can contact the mediator for a brief overview of the process or agree to come to the initial meeting.

2. Is mediation more expensive than going through the litigation process?

Generally, people find mediation to be considerably less expensive than going through litigation.

3. How much time will it take to get everything settled?

This actually depends on how many issues are involved and how far apart the parties are. Some people finish in a few sessions while other people require more time to come to an agreement.

4. What are the issues that can be worked out at mediation?

Any issues that are in dispute between parties can be resolved at mediation. In a divorce mediation case, this would include working out a parenting plan, support, property division, and costs.

5. What if we can’t come to an agreement?

If mediation does not work out the parties can seek help through attorneys and return to mediation at any time.

Additionally, Rory has been involved in the practice of Mediation for almost 20 years. She has had extensive training in Superior Court Mediation, Family Mediation and Adult Guardianship Mediation. She is a member of the American Bar Association, Delaware State Bar Association, American Trial Lawyers Association, and Delaware Trial Lawyers Association. She was previously a Commissioner on the Delaware Commission for Women and a member of the Family Law and Alternate Dispute Resolution Sections of the Delaware State Bar Association. Additionally, she is a member of the International Alliance of Holistic Lawyers, the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, the Association for Conflict Resolution, and the Parenting Coordination Council of Delaware.

Rory has found the practice of law coupled with being married and raising two children an interesting “juggling act.” She believes in peaceful conflict resolution and her mediation practice consists of divorce mediation, parent/child mediation, and work related mediation.

For more information, or to schedule a consultation, contact Attorney Godowsky at 302-654-4557.

Rory is married to Steven Godowsky and has two children, Dean and Sami. To relax, Rory likes to do yoga and meditation.

Helpful Information From the
Personal Injury Attorneys of Morris James LLP

If you are in a motor vehicle accident:

• Call 911 immediately
• Take notes and pictures if possible
• Do not leave the accident scene unless you have to go to the hospital
• Assist others if possible, but DO NOT move anybody with injuries
• Only speak to the police about the accident – do not speak to the other drivers

Record information, including:

• Location of the Accident
• Date
• Weather Conditions
• Other Driver’s Information (name, phone, address, auto insurance info, license number and State)
• Draw a diagram of the accident scene and take notes
• List additional driver’s information (if more cars are involved)
• Record Witness Information (name, phone, address)

You are welcome to visit one of our three Personal Injury Group locations to receive your complimentary glove box fold which contains an emergency card including the information above.

DID YOU KNOW??

In addition to our representation of victims injured in automobile accidents, the Morris James Personal Injury Group is now accepting Workers’ Compensation cases throughout the State of Dela-ware. For any worker injured on the job, a Morris James Personal Injury attorney will sit down with him or her and explain all the benefits he or she qualifies for under Delaware law. (There is no fee until benefits are recovered.)

Susan D. Ament, Esq. & Pete Jones, Esq. at 302.655.2599 in the Wilmington area, Kevin Healy, Esq. at 302.368.4200 in Newark, or Keith Donovan, Esq. at 302.678.8815 in Dover. Visit them on the web at Morrisjamespersonalinjurylawyers.com.

PERSONAL INJURY GROUP
Attorneys-at-Law

The Morris James Personal Injury Group is comprised of four partners: Susan D’Alonzo Ament, Keith Donovan, Kevin Healy and Francis (Pete) Jones, who have a combined total of 81 years legal experience dealing with litigation related to motor vehicle accidents. Our lawyers practice in all Delaware Courts. Certain members of our group are admitted in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Our Morris James Personal Injury Group Manager Al Ament, is a retired Delaware State police officer.

Two of the Morris James Personal Injury Group partners, Pete Jones and Keith Donovan, originally started their legal careers as defense attorneys for automobile insurance companies, but realized they were much happier representing injured victims (victims of automobile accidents and victims of insurance companies). They were called upon by well-known insurance companies to represent them in court and provide legal advice.

Mr. Jones and Mr. Donovan bring to the Morris James Personal Injury Group a wealth of inside knowledge as to how our current insurance company opponents think and act. This gives clients of the Morris James Personal Injury Group an advantage. The Morris James Personal Injury Group attorneys have the unique ability to anticipate an insurance companys next tactic before it occurs, and arm our clients accordingly. Our attorneys, because of their unique knowledge, are constantly strategizing and focusing on what is the best tactic in a case to be proactive on behalf of each client. We take a proactive approach as opposed to reacting defensively, to achieve the best possible result for those we represent.

The Morris James Personal Injury Group attorneys not only litigate, we counsel. We believe an effective personal injury attorney must keep each and every client well informed and advised of our planned case strategy. In addition to legal knowledge, we believe compassionate effective communication skills are vital to the attorney/client relationship. Our attorneys are good listeners and all attorneys and their staff respond to client inquiries promptly and respectfully, whether that inquiry be by telephone, e-mail or in-office visit.

Our attorneys are very active outside the practice of law in community service, having been appointed to many church and community service organization boards. The compassion, understanding and respect they feel towards clients in the office, also drives them to serve their community and others in need. When a Morris James Personal Injury attorney represents you, there is more than an attorney/client relationship formed, there is a personal bond. Our attorneys want to get to know each client in order to be able to effectively prove all aspects of the devastation to their lives, as a result of an auto accident. For example, we need to understand how the accident and injuries impacted your life, such as pain and suffering, loss of learning capacity, substitute services that were needed, and, loss of consortium.

We know from our past clients’ comments they benefit from having the advantage of 81 years of legal experience; the inside knowledge to anticipate insurance company maneuvers; the insider knowledge of police investigation procedures; and most importantly caring professional attorneys who have a personal relationship with each client. We have resolved thousands of cases over the years, either through negotiation, arbitration, mediation, or resulting in compensation to our clients’ appropriate level of injury involved. What is vital to us is client satisfaction.

We are pleased to report research shows the majority of our new clients are referred to us by satisfied existing or past clients. We think that shows just how hard each attorney and their staff work to gain the highest level of confidence of every client. The Morris James Personal Injury Group has the resources necessary to effectively litigate significant injury/death cases. We know based on experience where to find and hire the most respected expert witnesses necessary to prove our case in court.

The Morris James Personal Injury Group has three convenient locations
throughout the State to serve you:

803 N. Broom Street
Wilmington, DE
302.655.2599 Línea en Español – 302.651.3589

16 Polly Drummond Hill Road
Newark, DE
302.368.4200

29 N. State Street, Suite 100,
Dover, DE
302.678.8815

Morrisjamespersonalinjurylawyers.com

When I first became a family lawyer, almost thirty years ago, the goal of many spouses was to fight until someone became so exhausted from the struggle that they gave in to the other person or allowed a judge to make a decision, leaving both parties lacking what they really wanted. Unfortunately, the system at that time did not encourage people to take control of their own destiny. Divorce was synonymous with war and no one came out feeling victorious. Litigation did not create a resolution and often the real victims were the children, the very people both parties were trying to protect.

Today, however, there are options to duking it out when a marriage is dissolving. The process known as mediation allows parties to work with a third party who is a neutral to sort out the details involved in the finalization of the matters. In this setting, the parties are able to explain to the mediator and the other party what their goals are and how they would like to proceed to work out the issues.

Mediation got started in the late 70’s as a way to work out disputes and still maintain a relationship with the other party. Basically, any matter that is in dispute can be mediated in order to resolve the issues. The increasing trend in mediation is a combined result of people wanting to avoid the costs of litigation and the concern about maintaining an ongoing relationship. It should be noted that in most conflicts, the savings in using mediation as a remedy is not just money. People are able to work through their disputes and still maintain a relationship with the other party.

When the parties decide that they would like to pursue mediation there is an initial meeting scheduled. At that time the parties and the mediator have an informal discussion about the issues, and what, if anything, the parties have already agreed upon. After that initial meeting the parties fill out paperwork regarding their assets, debts, and income information for the next session.

There are a series of sessions held until all issues are resolved. Once the parties have finalized all matters, the mediator will prepare an agreement that becomes a contract between the parties. Most people who have been through the process are pleased because of the relationship they have been able to retain, and, in many instances, develop with their former spouse.

The mediator at all times remains a neutral party. In this capacity the mediator can not give legal advice to either spouse. The mediator can, however, help the parties figure out options that would be beneficial in the agreement and guide them through the process, as well as helping them to learn to communicate about their differences rather than argue.

Although divorce mediation seems like a new process it is becoming more and more popular throughout the country. Most people prefer to resolve their differences amicably, despite what they may feel initially and are happy to be able to control the outcome of their future.

Mediation is a confidential process and nothing that is said at mediation can be used in a court proceeding. The mediator cannot be called to court as a witness and generally will not speak to one spouse without the other spouse’s knowledge. There are some instances, however, where the parties will be in two different rooms and the mediator will go back and forth to discuss the party’s position. This may be at the request of one of the parties, or the premise of the mediator that an agreement will be more likely if the parties are in separate rooms.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What if my spouse does not want to come?
Divorce mediation is voluntary and if a spouse initially is hesitant they can contact the mediator for a brief overview of the process or agree to come to the initial meeting.

2. Is mediation more expensive than going through the litigation process?
Generally, people find mediation to be considerably less expensive than going through litigation.

3. How much time will it take to get everything settled?
This actually depends on how many issues are involved and how far apart the parties are.  Some people finish in a few sessions while other people require more time to come to an agreement.

4. What are the issues that can be worked out at mediation?
Any issues that are in dispute between parties can be resolved at mediation.  In a divorce mediation case, this would include working out a parenting plan, support, property division and costs.

5. What if we can’t come to an agreement?
If mediation does not work out the parties can seek help through attorneys and return to mediation at any time.

For more information, or to schedule a consultation, contact Attorney Godowsky at 302-654-4557, or email legalmom1012@gmail.com.

Rory Godowsky has been practicing law in Delaware for almost 30 years. She is a graduate of Widener University School of Law and has been in private practice with an emphasis on Family Law and Personal Injury.

Additionally, Rory has been involved in the practice of Mediation for almost 20 years. She has had extensive training in Superior Court Mediation, Family Mediation and Adult Guardianship Mediation. She is a member of the American Bar Association, Delaware State Bar Association, American Trial Lawyers Association and Delaware Trial Lawyers Association. She was previously a Commissioner on the Delaware Commission for Women and a member of the Family Law and Alternate Dispute Resolution Sections of the Delaware State Bar Association. Additionally, she is a member of the International Alliance of Holistic Lawyers, the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, the Association for Conflict Resolution and the Parenting Coordination Council of Delaware.

Rory has found the practice of law coupled with being married and raising two children an interesting “juggling act.” She believes in peaceful conflict resolution and her mediation practice consists of divorce mediation, parent/child mediation and work related mediation.

Rory is married to Steven Godowsky and has two children, Dean and Sami. To relax, Rory likes to do yoga and meditation.

Presented By:
Susan D. Ament, Esq.

Motor vehicle-related injuries are the biggest health threat to teenagers in the United States.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, motor vehicle-related injuries are the biggest health threat to teenagers in the United States, accounting for two of five deaths among teens ages 16 to 19 years. The risk of motor vehicle crashes is higher among 16- to 19-year-olds than among any other age group. In fact, per mile driven, teen drivers ages 16 to 19 are four times more likely than older drivers to crash.

Be aware of high risk categories.
• Males: In 2005, the motor vehicle death rate for male drivers and passengers ages 16 to 19 was more than one and a half times that of their female counterparts.
• Teens driving with teen passengers: The presence of teen passengers increases the crash risk of unsupervised teen drivers. This risk increases with the number of teen passengers.
• Newly licensed teens: Crash risk is particularly high during the first year that teenagers are eligible to drive.

When parents know their state’s GDL laws, they can help enforce the laws and, in effect, help keep their teen drivers safe.

Research suggests that the most comprehensive graduated driver licensing (GDL) programs are associated with reductions of 38% and 40% in fatal and injury crashes, respectively, among 16-year-old drivers. Graduated driver licensing (GDL) systems are designed to delay full licensure while allowing teens to get their initial driving experience under low-risk conditions. To learn more about the Office of Highway Safety’s GDL Parent Orientation program, call (302) 744-2743.

Driver’s education is just the beginning.

Parents should not rely solely on driver education to provide teens the significant knowledge and experience that they need to become safe drivers. Completing driver education should be viewed as the beginning of the learning process, not the end. More important to safe driving, research shows, is the opportunity to improve driving skills through gradual exposure to increasingly-challenging driving tasks. Teens become safer drivers with more driving experience.

If your teenage driver is injured in an accident that was not their fault, the Morris James’ Personal Injury Group has experienced attorneys to help parents and teenagers understand insurance issues and their rights.

Susan D’Alonzo Ament is a partner with Morris James LLP and has practiced for 26 years representing personal injury victims. Some women are not aware that when they sign a driver’s license application for their teen driver and/or furnish a vehicle to a teen driver, they are subject to statutory liability under 21 Del C. §6104 and 6105. Therefore, it is imperative that parents have adequate insurance coverage for their teenagers. Susan Ament educates women on these needs every day in her practice and in seminars that she presents throughout the year.

For further information call us at 302-655-2599
Se Habla Espanol
302-651-3589 for a free consultation.

By: Attorney Rory Colton Godowsky

Afriend had just finished going through his divorce and commented to me what a ‘bulldog,’ his attorney had been. He said that he didn’t fight with his ex-wife during their eighteen year marriage as much as he did with his attorney. Unfortunately, over the years this has been the measure of what a good lawyer does for his/her client. The destruction that is caused to the relationship between the litigants by some family attorneys creating further feuding is appalling and unnecessary.

What is the alternative? Many people have discovered that going through a divorce or other family disputes does not have to ruin whatever relationship may still exist. In fact, often people are able to improve their relationships with each other during the process. Why is this so important? In many cases, even though people are involved in dispute, there are ties that will still cause them to maintain communication with the other person. This may be property or finances, but in a large number of situations it involves their children.

The area most divorcing couples have difficulty working through relates to custody and having a parenting plan that is mutually acceptable. This should come as no shock since raising children while living in the same household is difficult enough, now the added burden of raising the children in two separate households magnifies the already existing problems. Children who are eighteen and younger will have a plan for their future care arranged for them by the court if the parents are unable to agree on the schedule. This court process can be time consuming, extremely expensive in the way of attorneys’ fees, but most significant, emotionally devastating to the parents. The process encourages people to bring to the court the most horrific memories and traits regarding the other parent. Additionally, in many cases children are brought to the court to speak to the judge.  This may be frightening and confusing to young children who are already going through some tough times.

Mediation allows parents to talk through their concerns and have a mediator, who is neutral, help them work out the details of a plan that they can live with.

Mediation is also a way to work out arrangements for aging family members. This ever increasing issue has become an area of conflict for many families. The problem is not just what the elderly family member would prefer, but also agreeing on the best placement with siblings and other extended family members. The process of mediation allows the parties to work together and agree on a plan, with the help of a mediator. Often just having the input of the mediator creates other options that the families have not considered because of the emotions that have gotten in the way. This process is a way of keeping families from having to go to court which can be expensive and more importantly, destructive of family relationships.

Additionally, Rory has been involved in the practice of Mediation for almost 20 years. She has had extensive training in Superior Court Mediation, Family Mediation and Adult Guardianship Mediation. She is a member of the American Bar Association, Delaware State Bar Association, American Trial Lawyers Association and Delaware Trial Lawyers Association. She was previously a Commissioner on the Delaware Commission for Women and a member of the Family Law and Alternate Dispute Resolution Sections of the Delaware State Bar Association. Additionally, she is a member of the International Alliance of Holistic Lawyers, the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, the Association for Conflict Resolution and the Parenting Coordination Council of Delaware.

Rory has found the practice of law coupled with being married and raising two children an interesting “juggling act.” She believes in peaceful conflict resolution and her mediation practice consists of divorce mediation, parent/child mediation and work related mediation.

Rory is married to Steven Godowsky and has two children, Dean and Sami. To relax, Rory likes to do yoga and meditation.

Do You Know What to Do if You Are Involved in a Motor Vehicle Accident?

Helpful Information From the Personal Injury Attorneys of Morris James LLP

YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO RECOVER:
AUTO ACCIDENTS:
-Medical Expenses
-Lost Wages
-Pain & Suffering
-Vehicle Damage

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION:
-Lost Wages
-Permanent Partial Disability
-Disfigurement
-Mileage Reimbursement
-Commutation
-Medical Expenses

WE OFFER:
-Free consultation
-No Fees, No Costs, Unless we Win

Under what circumstances am I able to recover damages as a result of an accident in Delaware?

If you have been injured through the fault of another person or company, you have the right to bring a personal injury claim.

How much is my case worth?

How much a case is worth involves a variety of factors, including the type of injury, the frequency of treatment, the duration of pain and disability from of the injury, the effect on the injured person’s activities of daily living, the prior medical history of the injured person, and whether medical expenses and lost wages can be claimed in the case. Our lawyers thoroughly evaluate each case in order to advise our clients of the settlement range they can expect to receive.

What if I am hit by a driver who flees the scene of the accident?

If you suffer injuries as a result of the actions of a hit and run driver, you can recover for your injuries if you have uninsured motorist coverage and there is a police report of the accident. A hit and run driver is treated as an uninsured driver and that coverage applies in a hit and run situation.

How long do I have to bring a case?

You must file your injury case within Delaware’s Statute of Limitations. In general, a personal injury claim must be brought within 2 years of the date of the accident. There are some exceptions requiring that certain defendants, such as governmental entities, be given notice of your personal injury claim within one year. If you are injured, you need to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible to avoid common mistakes that can have adverse consequences on your case.

When should I hire a personal injury attorney?

An experienced, effective Delaware personal injury attorney should be retained as soon as possible. As a person who has no experience in this area, you are at a distinct legal disadvantage against the experienced insurance company personnel. We have had clients who have delayed making contact with us. They have made mistakes that they did not even know they were making, which lead to a disadvantage to their personal injury case. Hire an effective and experienced Delaware personal injury attorney promptly to fight the experienced insurance company on the other side.

Did You Know??

In addition to our representation of victims injured in automobile accidents, the Morris James Personal Injury Group is now accepting Workers’ Compensation cases throughout the State of Delaware. For any worker injured on the job, a Morris James Personal Injury attorney will sit down with him or her and explain all the benefits he or she qualifies for under Delaware law. (There is no fee until benefits are recovered.)

Susan D’Alonzo Ament is a partner with Morris James LLP and has practiced for 25 years representing personal injury victims. Over the years, Mrs. Ament has found that some women don’t understand the crucial need to have adequate automobile insurance coverage in the event of a serious accident. Susan Ament educates women on these needs every day in her practice and in seminars that she presents throughout the year.

Morrisjamespersonalinjurylawyers.com

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302-651-3589

PERSONAL INJURY GROUP
Attorneys-at-Law

The Morris James Personal Injury Group is comprised of four partners: Susan D’Alonzo Ament, Keith Donovan, Kevin Healy and Francis (Pete) Jones, who have a combined total of 81 years legal experience dealing with litigation related to motor vehicle accidents.

The partners in this section are Delaware personal injury attorneys representing clients who are seriously injured in auto accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, and workers’ compensation cases. Our attorneys are committed to delivering knowledgeable, compassionate service to victims of car accidents and to the family members who have tragically lost loved ones to fatal car accidents. We provide convenient locations in Sussex, Kent, and New Castle Counties.

Our attorneys are very active outside the practice of law in community service, having been appointed to many church and community service organization boards. The compassion, understanding and respect they feel toward clients in the office also drives them to serve their community and others in need. When a Morris James Personal Injury attorney represents you, there is more than an attorney/client relationship formed, there is a personal bond. Our attorneys want to get to know each client in order to be able to effectively prove all aspects of the devastation to their lives as a result of an auto accident. For example, we need to understand how the accident and injuries impacted your life, such as pain and suffering, loss of earning capacity, and substitute services that were needed.

Our research shows the majority of our new clients are referred to us by satisfied existing or past clients. We think that shows just how hard each attorney and their staff work to gain the highest level of confidence of every client.

We are pleased to provide free initial consultations to review and evaluate potential cases. You may contact us via phone or e-mail to set-up an initial consultation.

Susan D. Ament, Esq.
Pete Jones, Esq.
302.655.2599
803 N. Broom Street
Wilmington, DE
sament@morrisjames.com
pjones@morrisjames.com

Kevin Healy, Esq.
302.368.4200
16 Polly Drummond Hill Rd.
Newark, DE
khealy@morrisjames.com

Keith Donovan, Esq.
302.678.8815
29 North State Street
Dover, DE
kdonovan@morrisjames.com

Morrisjamespersonalinjurylawyers.com

The film is produced, written, directed and edited by Sherry Dorsey, a native of Wilmington, DE .  “Justice For All: The Documentary” delves into the minds of juvenile offenders who commit minor crimes and examines the system designed to rehabilitate the youth. The production crew filmed in over 50 cities in the United States and overseas producing this three-year comprehensive study of juvenile justice.

In some parts of the country and overseas, youth graduate from the juvenile justice system and matriculate into adult prisons. As well, young people have become hardened criminals after extended stays in the juvenile justice system.

An adolescent who could possibly be given community service for violation of probation may find him/herself thrown into a J.D.C. ( Juvenile Detention Center ) for four years or more because the child could not afford adequate legal counsel. The film takes viewers on a journey seeking “Justice For All.”

SWAP (Sisters With A Purpose) Productions LLC, is an independent film company founded in Wilmington , DE in 2001 by Sherry Dorsey. SWAP’s primary goal is to create films that raise the consciousness of the viewers, while enriching, enlightening and entertaining the audiences.

For more information, contact Sherry Dorsey, SWAP Productions LLC, at (302)377-5199.