E D I T O R ’ S M E S S A G E J i m W i m s a t t – H a r r i s , H u n t & D e r r , P . A .
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the uncertainty in the current world , seeing our community rally , seeing people looking local and taking action , all of it brings a sense that it will be OK . Certainly not perfect ; maybe not great ; but at least OK . We will rally together and pull through , no matter the obstacle .
Please read Nino Martino ’ s HCBA President ’ s Message this month in particular . Nino articulates how I have been feeling in a manner that is both heartfelt and practical . I encourage all readers to take action to be the “ guiding light ” Nino recognizes we can be . As attorneys we have a unique ability , and some would say responsibility , to help others when they are most in need . Likewise , John Kynes provides a concrete way for attorneys to step up and offer assistance through volunteering with the Florida Bar ’ s YLD Disaster Relief Hotline . Elsewhere in the Magazine , the Construction Law
Section provides an overview of how homeowners can contest construction liens and the impact of a new Fourth District Court of Appeal decision strictly construing the statute . Issues with construction liens are likely to become more frequent with the sheer volume of work that needs to be done in Hillsborough and surrounding counties .
Cindy Stuart , our excellent Clerk of Court , describes the various policies and initiatives it has implemented to assist victims of domestic violence . Of special note are the “ Hope Cards ” that are now available to victims who have obtained a final order of protection . These Cards can be presented to law enforcement to quickly and easily inform them about the situation . Our Clerk ’ s Office has gone above and beyond to provide digital cards and to provide the cards automatically .
Finally , the Solo and Small Firm Section has an excellent article reminding us all of the benefits of being a member of the Florida Bar . Look these over and take advantage of them . The mental health resources alone are a huge benefit that many of us could use , but do not utilize . n
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