January Newsletter 2025

Trusted Experience. Proven Success. Unmatched Service

January, a time for new beginnings! As I mentioned last month, the Firm has changed from Johnson & Montas to Montas Turner. In 2009 when I joined what was then Johnson Law Center, I never expected the growth and changes we have experienced. I would not have expected that I would end up joining forces with Scott Turner, who has been a long-time mentor of mine and also worked under Jon Johnson at one time. Scott has over 30 years of experience in civil litigation. I am thrilled to see what is in store for this year. However, before I focus on the future, I want to take a moment to honor the past. Jon Johnson was my partner and mentor and is my friend. It was very bittersweet to remove his name from the letterhead. I am beyond appreciative of the potential he saw in me. I am honored he trusted me with his legacy and while his name may no longer be on the letterhead, his customer service, attention to detail, and love for the law will continue to be a significant part of the Firm.

Cheers to 2025!

Karen Montas, Esq.

New Name. Same great service and attention to detail, with more team members to assist you.

Legally Speaking...

Autonomous Vehicles

A group representing self-driving car companies urged the U.S. government to accelerate the deployment of autonomous vehicles and remove regulatory barriers. Jeff Farrah, head of the Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association, criticized the federal government's lack of action on vehicle design, construction, and performance, and warned that regulatory uncertainty could allow China to surpass the U.S. in autonomous vehicle technology. The group called for clearer federal guidelines and a national safety data repository, while emphasizing the need for Congressional action to allow self-driving vehicles without manual controls.

Autonomous Vehicles and Personal Injury Laws 

Autonomous vehicles are challenging traditional personal injury laws as they evolve, promising to reduce human error and improve road safety. In accidents involving self-driving cars, determining liability becomes complex, involving manufacturers, software developers, or maintenance entities, rather than just human drivers. As these vehicles become more widespread, personal injury laws will need to adapt to address issues like product liability, malfunctioning technology, and human oversight.

Whether you are involved in an accident with a self-driving vehicle or as the driver yourself, here is what you should do immediately:

Call law enforcement.

  1. Take photos of vehicles and the scene.

  2. Gather insurance and contact information from other parties, as well as witness details.

  3. Seek medical treatment immediately.

  4. Report the accident to your insurance company.

  5. Contact Montas Turner for a free consultation!

Recent Accident?

Your insurance coverage can be affected by what you do after a motor vehicle accident.

Employee Spotlight:

Emily Hoffman, Paralegal

Emily Hoffman is a very proficient paralegal who brings a wealth of experience to her role. She originates from Cleveland, Ohio, but moved to Florida in 2015, with her husband, Chris. Before joining the Montas Turner team she served as a family law paralegal for nine years and obtained her Associates Degree in Paralegal Studies in 2014. Outside of her professional endeavors, Emily finds fulfillment in spending quality time with her loved ones, including her cherished cat Enzo. She also indulges in reading and engaging in high-performance driving events across Florida alongside her husband.

Montas Turner in the Community:

Happy 50th Anniversary Mr. Montas & Dr. Brito

For this month's community highlight Attorney Montas wanted to share something more personal. Her parents, Jose Montas and Argentina Brito, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in December of 2024.

"My parents are amazing parents, grandparents, siblings, and friends. I have had the privilege of seeing them actively participate in THEIR communities throughout my life. Their dedication to each other, their family, and their faith is exemplary. I am grateful for their love and support."

Happy Anniversary Mami y Papi, los quiero muchisimo.

Karen's Shoe of the Month!

If you know Attorney Karen Montas, you know she is a shoe connoisseur. Each pair of shoes featured in our monthly newsletter are from her personal collection, including this pop of lime green fun!

We are a law firm dedicated to assisting our community in their unique legal situations by providing exceptional, client focused representation.

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December Newsletter 2024