BGS Attorneys Named Super Lawyers and Rising Stars 2014

July 8, 2014  |  Barna, Guzy & Steffen, Ltd.

Barna, Guzy and Steffen would like to congratulate their attorneys named to the 2014 Minnesota Super Lawyers lists.  This year, the law firm had five Super Lawyers and three Rising Stars named to the lists.  The attorneys named Super Lawyers were: John T. Buchman/Personal Injury Michael F. Hurley/Banking Jeffrey S. Johnson/Real Estate Bradley A. Kletscher/Business Litigation Steven G. Thorson/Real Estate And the Rising Stars: Timothy D. Erb/Real Estate Tammy J. Schemmel/Business Litigation Angela M. Woessner/Real Estate These attorneys will appear in the Minnesota Super Lawyers Magazine published in July 2014 and distributed to attorneys in Minnesota and the ABA-accredited law school libraries. In addition, selected attorneys will also appear in the August 2014 issue of Mpls./St.Paul Magazine and Twin Cities Business.  Super Lawyers are chosen using peer nominations and evaluations which are combined with third party research.  Each candidate is evaluated on 12 indicators of peer recognition and professional achievement.  Selections are made on an annual, state-by-state basis. The firm recognizes that it is an honor to have attorneys named Super Lawyers/Rising Stars. This acknowledgement reinforces their continuing mission to be recognized as the best and most innovative law firm in their market.

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Dealing With a Dog Attack

June 26, 2014  |  Adriel B. Villarreal

Being attacked by a dog or another aggressive animal can be a frightening experience. Victims of animal attacks often suffer lifelong consequences, including chronic pain, emotional trauma and even disfigurement. Unfortunately, children are often the victims of dog bites, and the injuries they sustain are usually serious.   At Barna, Guzy & Steffen, we understand that an animal attack not only causes physical pain, but emotional pain as well. In some cases, cosmetic surgery and extensive treatment is required.  Our personal injury lawyers work tirelessly to ensure that you receive the treatment needed to fully recover and are compensated for your medical bills. Fighting for Your Rights Minnesota law clearly states that it is the responsibility of every pet owner to ensure that their animal does not bite or attack another person. Regardless of whether or not the animal was on or off the owner’s property, the owner of the animal must keep their pet under control. The owner of the dog or aggressive animal may be held liable for: Medical bills Pain and suffering Lost wages Disfigurement and scarring Rehabilitation costs If you or a loved one have been attacked by a dog or other aggressive animal, we can help you obtain the compensation you are entitled to. We take an individualized approach…

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Is It Ever Best to Choose a Jury Trial?

June 24, 2014  |  Adriel B. Villarreal

If you are deciding to bring a case to trial, it can be difficult to make the choice between a judge or jury trial. There are many reasons why one may be better than the other, but in some cases, a jury trial may be the best option for you to get the outcome you want. What is a Jury Trial? A jury trial is a trial that is brought before a jury of “the peers of the accused” in a criminal case, who have no prior knowledge of the case or anyone involved in the case. The jury makes the decision on whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty and the judge is only in charge of making sure the law is upheld. Note: the jury only determines guilt, the judge is still responsible for deciding on the penalty. Choosing a Jury Trial The reason that many people choose a jury trial over a judge trial is because they feel like they can make a better case with sympathy than with evidence. A jury is much more likely to be swayed by emotions than a judge would be. Choosing a jury trial would beneficial in cases such as sexual harassment, emotional abuse, or other cases of being victimized by another person….

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