Law Offices of Gilbert & Smallman PLLC

Law Offices of Gilbert & Smallman PLLC Civil Litigation, Personal Injury, Probate / trusts & Criminal Trial Lawyers in Miami and Hollywood

One of the most common misconceptions we hear in criminal defense is that a case will automatically be dismissed if the ...
08/28/2026

One of the most common misconceptions we hear in criminal defense is that a case will automatically be dismissed if the arresting officer does not show up to court.

While it is understandable to think that, the reality is often more complicated.

🔵 The case may be rescheduled. If an officer has a legitimate reason for being absent—such as illness, a scheduling conflict, or a public safety emergency—the court will often grant a continuance and set a new court date.

🔵 Dismissal is possible, but never automatic. A judge may be more likely to dismiss when an officer repeatedly fails to appear without a valid explanation and the prosecution cannot proceed without that testimony. Still, every case is different.

🔵 The type of case matters. Traffic infractions and minor citations may be more likely to be dismissed if the citing officer is absent, while more serious criminal charges can be handled differently.

🔵 Experienced legal representation matters. A criminal defense attorney can identify opportunities, respond strategically, and help protect your rights when unexpected issues arise in court.

If you have questions about a criminal charge, DUI, traffic citation, or your legal options, the Law Offices of Gilbert & Smallman PLLC are here to help.

Call us at (786) 371-4431 to discuss your case.

An injury caused by another person does not just come with pain. It often comes with confusion, stress, and a long list ...
08/26/2026

An injury caused by another person does not just come with pain. It often comes with confusion, stress, and a long list of unanswered questions about your legal rights. One of the first things people ask us at Gilbert & Smallman PLLC is simply: “Do I actually have a case?”

We put together a clear breakdown of what personal injury law does and does not cover, along with the legal elements behind every claim, so you can start to get your bearings. Swipe through to learn more.

If you are dealing with an injury and are not sure where you stand, you do not have to figure it out alone. Gilbert & Smallman PLLC is here to listen and help you understand your options.

Call us today at 305-426-4878 to discuss your situation.

Do you know the difference between a last will and testament and a living will? A lot of people assume they do the same ...
08/13/2026

Do you know the difference between a last will and testament and a living will? A lot of people assume they do the same thing, but they actually serve very different roles in protecting your wishes. Both documents are essential parts of a complete estate plan, especially for families here in South Florida. Swipe through to see what each one covers and why you should have both in place. If you have questions about estate planning, our team at the Law Offices of Gilbert and Smallman is here to help. Reach out anytime (786) 371-4431 and (786) 269-3554 to get the clarity and guidance you need.

Boundary issues can pop up fast, and if they’re not handled early, they can turn into bigger legal headaches. Our team p...
08/04/2026

Boundary issues can pop up fast, and if they’re not handled early, they can turn into bigger legal headaches. Our team put together a few simple steps you can take if you’re dealing with a boundary dispute. If you’re unsure about your next move or want guidance on your specific situation, reach out to us anytime. The Law Offices of Gilbert and Smallman is here to help Miami and South Florida property owners protect their rights. Call us at (786) 371-4431 and (786) 269-3554

Probate disputes can become serious when questions arise about fairness, capacity, or control of assets. Certain situati...
07/30/2026

Probate disputes can become serious when questions arise about fairness, capacity, or control of assets. Certain situations may require probate litigation to protect the rights of beneficiaries, heirs, or other interested parties.

Common issues that may lead to litigation include:

🔹 Concerns about undue influence
🔹 Questions regarding mental capacity
🔹 Allegations of forged or invalid documents
🔹 Beneficiary or surviving spouse rights disputes
🔹 Abuse of a power of attorney
🔹 Trustee misconduct
🔹 Improper distribution of estate assets
🔹 Breach of fiduciary duty

When someone is withholding information, misusing authority, or challenging a valid inheritance, legal action may be necessary to resolve the dispute and protect important rights.

If you are facing pressure, uncertainty, or concerns about the handling of an estate, do not assume you must accept the situation without question. Contact the Law Offices of Gilbert & Smallman or Tables Law Group at (786) 371-4431 and (786) 269-3554 for more information.

Learn more by visiting our website: https://gilbertandsmallman.com/ and https://tableslawgroup.com/

When you’re up against criminal charges, it’s normal to want to talk things through with friends or family. But sharing ...
07/28/2026

When you’re up against criminal charges, it’s normal to want to talk things through with friends or family. But sharing details with anyone other than your attorney can put your entire case at risk. Our team at the Law Offices of Gilbert and Smallman is here to protect your rights and guide you through every step with clarity and care. If you or someone you love is facing a criminal charge, reach out to schedule a confidential consultation. We’re here to stand with you when it matters most, (305) 426-4878.

Being named personal representative comes with real legal responsibilities that go beyond collecting assets and distribu...
07/27/2026

Being named personal representative comes with real legal responsibilities that go beyond collecting assets and distributing them to beneficiaries. In reality, serving as a personal representative often requires managing a variety of important legal and financial tasks throughout the probate process.

Responsibilities may include:

🔹 Gathering and inventorying estate assets.
🔹 Notifying heirs and beneficiaries.
🔹 Providing notice to creditors.
🔹 Reviewing creditor claims.
🔹 Paying valid debts and taxes.
🔹 Maintaining estate records.
🔹 Requesting court approval for final distribution.

Because personal representatives have fiduciary duties, mistakes can create delays, disputes, or potential liability.

Working with a probate attorney can help make the process more manageable and provide guidance every step of the way. Contact the Law Offices of Gilbert & Smallman or Tables Law Group at (786) 371-4431 and (786) 269-3554.

During probate, Florida law may provide protections against creditor claims for certain estate assets. However, those pr...
07/23/2026

During probate, Florida law may provide protections against creditor claims for certain estate assets. However, those protections are not always automatic and may require action through the court to be properly recognized.

Depending on the circumstances, an attorney can help:

🔹 Review estate assets.
🔹 Identify potential exemptions under Florida law.
🔹 Evaluate creditor claims.
🔹 Petition the court when protections may apply.

Without proper guidance, families may overlook important legal protections that could preserve valuable assets for beneficiaries. Every estate is different, and early legal review can help ensure that all available options are considered before decisions are made.

Contact the Law Offices of Gilbert & Smallman or Tables Law Group at (786) 371-4431 and (786) 269-3554 for guidance.

Buying real estate in Florida comes with more than just the purchase price. Certain municipal liens, fines, or code viol...
07/21/2026

Buying real estate in Florida comes with more than just the purchase price. Certain municipal liens, fines, or code violations can follow the property — and become your responsibility once the deal closes. Other liens can pop up and halt a purchase or sale. Understanding these risks early can save you from expensive surprises down the road. If you’re in a real estate sale or preparing to buy or sell, our team at the Law Offices of Gilbert and Smallman and Tables Law Group can help you navigate these issues and protect your interests. Have questions about a property you're considering? Reach out anytime at (786) 371-4431 and (786) 269-3554.

A will does not automatically transfer everything after someone passes away. Many families are surprised to learn that e...
07/21/2026

A will does not automatically transfer everything after someone passes away. Many families are surprised to learn that even when a loved one leaves a valid will, probate administration may still be required before assets can be properly distributed.

Probate administration is the court-supervised process that helps:

🔹Verify the validity of a will.
🔹Identify heirs and beneficiaries.
🔹Gather and inventory estate assets.
🔹Notify creditors and review claims.
🔹Distribute property according to the will or Florida law when there is no will.

Probate is more than paperwork. It is an important legal process designed to ensure that assets are transferred correctly and that outstanding obligations are properly addressed before distribution occurs.

Trying to navigate probate without legal guidance can lead to delays, mistakes, and unnecessary stress during an already difficult time. Contact the Law Offices of Gilbert and Smallman or Tables Law Group at (786) 371-4431 and (786) 269-3554 for guidance through probate administration or probate litigation.

Learn more: https://gilbertandsmallman.com/

Address

3475 Sheridan Street, Ste 301
Hollywood, FL
33021

Telephone

+19546617371

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