Messer Caparello, P.A., Announces New Shareholders
Tallahassee law firm, Messer Caparello, P.A., established in 1970, is pleased to announce that retired circuit judge Thomas H. Bateman III, Monica Freeland and Cameron Carstens have been named as shareholders with the firm. Thomas H. Bateman III joined the firm following his retirement from Leon County Circuit Court and offers mediation, arbitration, special magistrate, […]
Don’t be too quick to discipline students for social media posts done off campus!
When may a school discipline a student for social media postings? Student speech is protected by the First Amendment. And when a student engages in “pure speech” on political or social issues, the student is entitled to extra protection. The law is clear that schools have authority to discipline students for things they say on […]
Former Judge Terry Lewis Joins Firm
The law firm of Messer Caparello, PA, is pleased to announce that Terry Lewis, who recently retired after 30 years as a trial judge, has become of counsel with the firm and will focus on mediation and arbitration. Mr. Lewis was a general practitioner for 12 years before his election to the county court in […]
Employees Can’t be Fired for Being Homosexual or Transgender
It is now a violation of federal law for an employer to fire an employee because the employee is homosexual or transgender. The United States Supreme Court, issued its ruling, in a 6 to 3 decision, on June 15, 2020, in the case of Bostock v. Clayton County, Georgia. Under the Court’s ruling, Title VII […]
Selected Highlights of Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) (March 19, 2020)
On March 18, 2020, President Trump signed the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) into law. Here are some highlights of the Act for employers: FFCRA takes effect: April 1, 2020 three major provisions for employers: amends FMLA establishes paid sick leave requirement provides for tax credits for employers Emergency Family and Medical Leave Expansion […]
Are Opening Prayers at School Board Meetings Constitutional?
It is common in Florida for School Boards to open their meetings with a prayer or invocation. The practice lends a sense of solemnity to the meeting and can help to engender a positive atmosphere for discussion and decision-making. However, the practice of opening meetings with a prayer is being increasingly challenged in the courts […]