<![CDATA[BENJAMIN, GOLD & TROYB, P.C.

<![CDATA[BENJAMIN, GOLD & TROYB, P.C. - Blog]]>Tue, 05 May 2026 15:24:10 -0400Weebly<![CDATA[The Most Important Step After a Work Injury: Why Filing a Form 30C Matters]]>Wed, 14 Jan 2026 15:44:05 GMThttps://www.bgtlawfirm.com/blog/the-most-important-step-after-a-work-injury-why-filing-a-form-30c-matters

The Most Important Step After a Work Injury: Why Filing a Form 30C Matters

Several weeks ago, I met a client – let’s call her Maria. She worked in a busy warehouse, lifting boxes and moving inventory day in and day out. One morning, as she reached for a heavy package on a high shelf, she felt a sharp pain shoot through her back. Like many hardworking people, Maria tried to tough it out. She finished her shift, hoping the pain would fade. But it didn’t. In fact, it got worse. Two days later, Maria called in sick and told H.R. about the work accident. Maria was told to come in and fill out some paperwork, which she did, and to see a doctor.

Maria saw her doctor and returned to work about two weeks later, with her back still hurting. Maria assumed that since she filled out the company’s paperwork and saw the doctor, that was all she needed to do. But weeks later, the medical bills started coming, and her two weeks off remained unpaid. That’s when she called my office, confused and worried about how she would support her family.

Click "Read More" to continue reading.

Maria’s story is more common than you might think. In Connecticut, there’s a crucial step that every injured worker must take to protect their rights AS SOON AS POSSIBLE AFTER BEING INJURED: filing a Form 30C. This isn’t just another piece of paperwork - it’s the official Notice of Claim for Compensation. Without it, your employer and the Workers’ Compensation Commission may not even know you’re seeking benefits, and you could lose your right to compensation altogether.

Here’s why the Form 30C is so important. Connecticut law gives you a limited window - generally one year from the date of your injury - to file this form. Miss that deadline, and you may be permanently barred from receiving benefits, no matter how serious your injury is. Filing the Form 30C also starts the clock for your employer. Once they receive it, they have 28 days to either begin paying your benefits or formally contest your claim. If they don’t respond in time, your claim is usually presumed valid, and your employer may lose the right to challenge it later.

But perhaps most importantly, Form 30C creates a clear, official record of your injury and your claim. If there’s ever a dispute - if your employer’s insurance company questions whether your injury was really work-related, for example - this form is your evidence. It shows when you were hurt, how it happened, and that you took the right steps to notify everyone involved.

Maria’s case had a happy ending. We helped her file her Form 30C, and she eventually received the medical care and wage replacement she needed to get back on her feet. But her story is a reminder: don’t let confusion or paperwork stand between you and the help you deserve.

If you’ve been injured at work, don’t wait. Filing a Form 30C is the first and most important step to protect your rights. If you’re unsure how to do it or if you have questions about your claim, we’re here to help. At Benjamin, Gold & Troyb, P.C., we’ve guided countless Connecticut workers through this process, and we’re ready to stand by your side as well.

Guest Blog Entry By:

Daniel A. Benjamin, Esq.
Benjamin, Gold & Troyb, P.C.
350 Bedford Street - Suite 403
Stamford, Connecticut 06901
Telephone: 203-425-8500
Facsimile: 203-425-8600
Website: www.bgtlawfirm.com

]]><![CDATA[NEWS FLASH: YOU CAN SUE “CITY HALL” (BUT THERE’S A CRUCIAL STEP YOU NEED TO TAKE FIRST)]]>Tue, 11 Jun 2024 04:00:00 GMThttps://www.bgtlawfirm.com/blog/news-flash-you-can-sue-city-hall-but-theres-a-crucial-step-you-need-to-take-first

Recently, a potential client named Joe walked into our office seeking advice. He had been involved in a car accident, and his car had hit a massive pothole on a city street. The impact caused his car to veer sideways, ultimately colliding with a telephone pole. Joe suffered serious injuries, missed work, and faced mounting medical bills. However, his neighbor had confidently told him, “You can’t sue City Hall!” I asked Joe what law school his neighbor graduated from, and Joe told me that his neighbor wasn’t a lawyer. Not surprising.

Understanding Your Rights:

I explained to Joe that he had done the right thing by seeking legal counsel promptly after the accident. Why? Because I drew upon my 45-plus years of legal experience to inform him: Yes, you can sue “City Hall.” But there’s a catch.

Click "Read More" to continue reading.

Connecticut General Statutes Section 13a-149, also known as our “Defective Highway” statute, outlines the process. To be eligible to sue within two years of the accident, an injured person must first give written notice to the Town Clerk where the defective city street is located within 90 days of the crash, the injured party must provide written notice to the Town Clerk where the defective city street is located. This notice must include:

the injured person’s name and address
details of their injuries
date and time of the accident
specific location of the accident
a description of what happened and the cause of the accident

Legal notice requirements can be tricky, so it is best if an experienced attorney takes care of it for you.

Seeking Compensation:

If you’ve been injured in a car crash, don’t “go it alone.” Insurance companies are not your allies; their adjusters often aim to minimize payouts. Instead, consider the following steps:

Timely Filing: Contact an attorney promptly to file your claim within the legal timeframe.
Thorough Investigation: An attorney will investigate the accident thoroughly, gathering evidence from various sources, including traffic cameras.
Medical Evidence: Obtain the necessary medical evidence to substantiate your injuries.
Full Compensation: With legal representation, you can pursue full and fair compensation for all your losses and injuries.

Remember, your rights matter, and seeking professional legal guidance ensures you’re on the right path.

In Summary:

So, yes, you can sue “City Hall,” provided lawful notice is given. In suing any municipality or the state, following the proper procedures are essential. If you find yourself in this situation, consult an experienced attorney who will fight for your rights and help you navigate the complexities of the legal system.

Guest Blog Entry By:

Daniel A. Benjamin, Esq.
Benjamin, Gold & Troyb, P.C.
350 Bedford Street - Suite 403
Stamford, Connecticut 06901
Telephone: 203-425-8500
Facsimile: 203-425-8600
Website: www.bgtlawfirm.com

]]><![CDATA[THE ESSENTIAL ACTION PLAN AFTER A CAR CRASH: AN ATTORNEY’S GUIDE FOR ACCIDENT VICTIMS]]>Mon, 20 May 2024 15:34:31 GMThttps://www.bgtlawfirm.com/blog/the-essential-action-plan-after-a-car-crash-an-attorneys-guide-for-accident-victims

Nine years ago today, David Letterman ended his legendary late-night reign. His iconic “Top Ten List” segment influenced generations of viewers. While Dave’s lists were often humorous, my top ten list is meant to be educational and is given with the benefit of over 45 years as a personal injury attorney. I sincerely hope it is helpful to you and your loved ones.

Being involved in a car crash is a traumatic experience that can leave you disoriented and overwhelmed. In the chaos of the moment, it’s crucial to know what steps to take to protect yourself, your passengers, and your legal rights. In this list, we’ll outline the top 10 actions you should follow immediately after a car crash.

Click "Read More" to continue reading.

1. PRIORITIZE SAFETY

Move to Safety if Possible: Turn on your hazard lights and move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic. If your vehicle is unmovable, walk to a safe place off the side of the roadway. If you are seriously injured, do not move and wait for first responders.

2. GET HELP

Call 911: If you are physically able, dial 911 or ask someone else to do so.

3. EMERGENCY MEDICAL TREATMENT

Ambulance: If you are injured, or think you might be injured, let first responders transport you to hospital by ambulance.

4. STAY AT THE SCENE

Don’t Flee: Try to stay calm. Leaving the scene of an accident is illegal. Wait for first responders and law enforcement to arrive.

5. GATHER INFORMATION

Exchange Details: Exchange information with the other driver(s). Collect their name, contact information, driver’s license number, and insurance details.
Limit Conversations: Do not admit fault with other drivers or witnesses even if pressed.
Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any relevant signs or signals.
Witnesses: If there are witnesses, obtain their names and phone numbers. Their statements may be crucial later.

6. CONTACT LAW ENFORCEMENT

Report the Accident: When the police arrive, provide them with accurate information about the incident. Stick to the facts and avoid speculation.

7. NOTIFY LOVED ONES

Call Family or Friends: Let your loved ones know about the accident.

8. SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION

Visit a Healthcare Provider: Some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Pain or other symptoms following a car crash may be delayed by hours or even by days. Get checked by a medical professional.
Follow Medical Advice: Your goal is a full and complete recovery from your injuries.

9. CONTACT YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY

Report the Accident: Notify your insurance company promptly. Provide accurate information about the incident.
Avoid Recorded Statements: Be cautious about recorded statements until you’ve consulted with an attorney.

10. CONSULT AN EXPERIENCED ATTORNEY

Legal Representation: If you were injured in the crash, seek legal counsel. Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim or offer you an unfair amount in settlement. An attorney can protect your rights and help you pursue full and complete compensation for all of your injuries and losses.

]]><![CDATA[New FinCen Reporting Requirements for COMPANIES: What You Need to Know]]>Mon, 15 Jan 2024 21:16:29 GMThttps://www.bgtlawfirm.com/blog/new-fincen-reporting-requirements-for-companies-what-you-need-to-know

If you own or operate a limited liability company (LLC), corporation or other business entity in the United States, you may be subject to a new reporting requirement that took effect on January 1, 2024. The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), a set of new regulations implemented by the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), requires certain entities to submit a report declaring beneficial ownership information to FinCEN.

Click "Read More" to continue reading.

What is beneficial ownership information?

Beneficial ownership information refers to identifying information about the individuals who directly or indirectly own or control a company. This may include their name, date of birth, address, and identification number (such as a passport or driver’s license number).

Why do companies have to report beneficial ownership information to FinCEN?

The CTA aims to prevent the misuse of shell companies and other opaque ownership structures by bad actors who seek to hide or benefit from their ill-gotten gains. By collecting and maintaining beneficial ownership information in a secure, non-public database, FinCEN will be able to assist law enforcement, national security, and intelligence agencies in their investigations and prosecutions of money laundering, tax evasion, terrorism financing, and other crimes.

Which companies are subject to the reporting requirement?

Companies required to report are called "reporting companies." There are two types of reporting companies:

Domestic reporting companies are corporations, limited liability companies, and any other entities created by the filing of a document with a secretary of state or any similar office in the United States.
Foreign reporting companies are entities (including corporations and limited liability companies) formed under the law of a foreign country that have registered to do business in the United States by the filing of a document with a secretary of state or any similar office.

With that said, there are 23 types of entities that are exempt from the reporting requirements. Owners should carefully review the qualifying criteria before concluding that their company is exempt.

How do companies report beneficial ownership information to FinCEN?

Companies can report beneficial ownership information to FinCEN using the BOI E-Filing System, an online portal that allows users to submit and update their reports electronically. Companies can also create a FinCEN ID, an optional unique identifier that can be used to verify their identity and streamline their reporting process.

When do companies have to report beneficial ownership information to FinCEN?

Companies that are newly formed or registered to do business in the United States on or after January 1, 2024, must report beneficial ownership information to FinCEN within 90 days of such formation or registration. Companies that were already in existence before January 1, 2024, must report beneficial ownership information to FinCEN by December 31, 2024.

What are the penalties for non-compliance?

Companies that fail to report beneficial ownership information to FinCEN, or that knowingly provide false or incomplete information, may face civil and criminal penalties, including fines of up to $10,000 and imprisonment of up to two years.

Where can companies obtain more information about the reporting requirement?

FinCEN has published a FAQ page that provides answers to common questions about the reporting requirement. FinCEN also offers a chat service that allows users to communicate with FinCEN staff and get assistance with their reporting issues. Additionally, FinCEN has created a brochure, a video introduction, and a video overview that explain the reporting requirement in simple terms. These can be found on the FinCEN website by clicking HERE.

How can we help you with the reporting requirement?

If our law firm assisted you with the formation of your business entity, we are already familiar with your company's structure and beneficial owners. If you would like, we can assist you with determining if your company is subject to the reporting requirement and, if so, with the filing of the appropriate report.

If we did not assist you with the formation of your business entity, we will need to obtain additional information from you, but we can still assist you with the following:

reviewing your company documents and records to identify the beneficial owners and their information
completing and filing the report on your behalf using the BOI E-Filing System
creating and managing your FinCEN ID, if you choose to use one
assisting you with updates to your report when there are changes in your beneficial ownership information
answering any questions or concerns you may have about the reporting requirement
representing you in case of any disputes or investigations related to your report

Given the deadlines, and the anticipated number of inquiries, please contact our office as soon as possible if you would like us to assist you with the reporting requirements.

]]><![CDATA[In Memoriam - Ronald M. Gold]]>Mon, 10 Jul 2023 16:28:55 GMThttps://www.bgtlawfirm.com/blog/in-memoriam-ronald-m-gold

With great sadness, our firm mourns the passing of one of its founding partners, Attorney Ronald M. Gold, on Thursday, July 6, 2023. Ron was a well-respected member of the firm and the local and legal communities, as well as an honorable, knowledgeable and trustworthy friend, mentor and colleague who will be greatly missed.

The firm has made a contribution in Ron’s name to Connecticut Legal Services.

]]><![CDATA[In Memoriam - Leo Gold]]>Sun, 07 May 2023 04:00:00 GMThttps://www.bgtlawfirm.com/blog/in-memoriam-leo-gold

With great sadness, our firm mourns the passing of Attorney Leo Gold on Sunday, May 7, 2023. Leo was a well-respected member of the local and legal communities, as well as an honorable, knowledgeable, trustworthy colleague. His humble, pragmatic nature and sage legal advice will be greatly missed. Leo practiced law for over 50 years, and it was a privilege to work alongside him and know him.

The firm has made a contribution in Leo’s name to Connecticut Legal Services.

]]><![CDATA[DANIEL A. BENJAMIN RECOGNIZED IN THE FIELD OF WORKER’S COMPENSATION LAW BY “BEST LAWYERS IN CONNECTICUT” (A PUBLICATION OF THE HARTFORD COURANT AND THE WALL STRET JOURNAL)]]>Fri, 07 Apr 2023 15:09:44 GMThttps://www.bgtlawfirm.com/blog/daniel-a-benjamin-recognized-in-the-field-of-workers-compensation-law-by-best-lawyers-in-connecticut-a-publication-of-the-hartford-courant-and-the-wall-stret-journal

The firm is honored to announce that Attorney Daniel A. Benjamin was recognized in the field of Worker’s Compensation Law by the “Best Lawyers in Connecticut” (a publication of the Hartford Courant and the Wall Street Journal). For many years, Attorney Benjamin has represented clients who have been seriously injured, and is especially proud of his work representing firefighters in various claims before the Worker’s Compensation Commission in Connecticut. He is especially pleased that he was included in this publication based upon reviews of his legal abilities submitted by his peers (other attorneys in the state).

A copy of the publication and the selection criteria is available HERE.

]]><![CDATA[USCIS Extends Covid-19-Related Flexibilities]]>Tue, 26 Jul 2022 19:09:14 GMThttps://www.bgtlawfirm.com/blog/uscis-extends-covid-19-related-flexibilities

The U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services announced that their COVID-19 policy allowing petitions and applications to be filed with copies of signatures on forms will become a permanent policy. This policy has helped many clients who spent precious resources sending ink signatures via couriers across the nation, and sometimes between continents, just to comply with original ink signature requirements at USCIS. Making this policy permanent is a welcome step forward for USCIS, bringing the agency a little closer to reflecting modern business norms.

The announcement, available HERE, also included an extension of some COVID-19 filing deadline flexibilities through this October.

]]><![CDATA[NIL Deals for International Student-Athletes]]>Mon, 25 Apr 2022 20:19:56 GMThttps://www.bgtlawfirm.com/blog/nil-deals-for-international-student-athletes

Beginning on July 1, 2021, the NCAA amended its bylaws to allow student-athletes to receive compensation in exchange for their Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) for the first time. College athletes across the country have since signed thousands of endorsement deals worth millions of dollars. One projection expects the college athletics NIL market to grow to $1 billion in the next five years. Notably absent from NIL activities have been the majority of the NCAA’s approximately 20,000 international student-athletes.

Click "Read More" to continue reading.

Recently, a campaign was launched to help international student-athletes gain the ability to market their NIL, but Congress will ultimately have to legislate on the issue. The NCAA and the states that have passed (and amended or repealed) NIL laws cannot give international student-athletes the right to earn NIL compensation.

Most international students attend colleges and universities in the United States after obtaining an F-1 or J-1 student visa. These “non-immigrant” class visas permit international students to travel to the United States and study at Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified universities or colleges. The SEVP is a Department of Homeland Security program which records essential information about international students. The program also provides approval and oversight to certified institutions along with advice to both institutions and students about visa status as an international student and how to maintain eligibility. These student-visa categories have very specific requirements and limitations, and this is especially true with respect to employment and compensation.

Students who entered with F-1 visas are allowed to do some work ‘on campus’ but need a work permit in order to obtain an ‘off campus’ job or internship (which is generally not permitted during the first academic year). After graduation these students are eligible to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curriculum Practical Training (CPT) to work or train in the United States for up to 12 months after graduation (or an additional two years for graduates with STEM-related degrees). Students who entered with J-1 visas are permitted to engage in work and study related exchange programs at US colleges and universities but are required to obtain a work permit (for ‘on campus’ and ‘off campus’ work).

The consequences of violating the terms of these student visas are severe and can result in the termination of the visa, removal of the student from the United States and could prevent them from entering the United States in the future.

With the recent Supreme Court ruling in Alston and the NCAA’s legislative changes permitting student athletes to sign Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) endorsement deals with various companies, a question is often raised—are athletes in the United States on student visas able to sign similar endorsement deals? Put another way—would signing an NIL deal constitute impermissible employment that would violate the terms of their student visa? Unfortunately, there is no ‘one size fits all’ answer because of the various ways endorsement deals can be structured (and the country in which the deal was entered and the compensation paid). For example, Kentucky guard Shaedon Sharpe signed a high-profile NIL deal with SoleSavy, a Vancouver-based sneaker company. Importantly, Sharpe is a Canadian citizen and his NIL contract with SoleSavy is presumptively governed by the laws of Canada. Sharpe’s teammate at Kentucky and National Player of the Year Oscar Tshiebwe has also been able to monetize his NIL as an international student-athlete, although the details of how he has been able to do so are less apparent.

Generally speaking, however, most international student-athletes are advised not to accept any NIL deals because of the possibility that it can be interpreted as unauthorized employment—which would make the school to legally obligated to terminate the visa. The definition of “employment” in this context is very vague, and many schools will advise their international students to avoid all NIL opportunities to prevent a possible violation—as the interpretation of this term is ultimately up to the federal government if there is a violation.

This issue has not gone unnoticed by other student-athletes, the NCAA and members of the U.S. Congress. UConn women’s basketball star Paige Bueckers, who has signed lucrative endorsement deals with Gatorade and clothing marketplace StockX, was quoted as saying that she is well aware that she is being given opportunities that are not available to her international teammates. Some members of the U.S. Congress have called for a federal law that would allow all college athletes (including those on student visas) to benefit and be compensated for the use of their name, image or likeness. Until that happens however, international student-athletes will likely continue to avoid NIL endorsement deals.

For those international student-athletes who do want to enter into an endorsement deal, it is highly recommended that both the student-athlete and the company seeking to endorse them consult with attorneys familiar with sports law, business law and immigration law to avoid possible severe penalties in the future.

AUTHORS:

Aleksandr Y. Troyb, Esq.
Benjamin, Gold & Troyb, P.C.
350 Bedford Street - Suite 403
Stamford, Connecticut 06901
Telephone: 203-425-8500
Facsimile: 203-425-8600
Website: www.bgtlawfirm.com

Joshua M. Frieser, Esq.
Frieser Legal, LLC
Telephone: 203-898-3207
Website: www.frieserlegal.com

]]><![CDATA[President Biden Announces "Uniting for Ukraine," a New Streamlined Process to Welcome Ukrainians Fleeing Russia's Invasion of Ukraine]]>Thu, 21 Apr 2022 18:20:10 GMThttps://www.bgtlawfirm.com/blog/president-biden-to-announce-uniting-for-ukraine-a-new-streamlined-process-to-welcome-ukrainians-fleeing-russias-invasion-of-ukraine

President Biden to Announce Uniting for Ukraine, a New Streamlined Process to Welcome Ukrainians Fleeing Russia's Invasion of Ukraine

Earlier today, President Biden announced "Uniting for Ukraine," a new streamlined process to provide Ukrainian citizens who fled from the war with Russia opportunities to come to the United States. In addition, the State Department is announcing increased refugee resettlement processing and broadened access to visa processing at consular posts overseas.

Uniting for Ukraine is a streamlined process for Ukrainian citizens who have been displaced by the war with Russia to apply for humanitarian parole in the United States. To be eligible, Ukrainians must

Click "Read More" to continue reading.

have been residents in Ukraine as of February 11, 2022, have a sponsor in the United States, complete vaccinations and other public health requirements, and pass rigorous biometric and biographic screening and vetting security checks. Ukrainians approved via this process will be authorized to travel to the United States and be considered for parole, on a case-by-case basis, for a period of up to two years. Once paroled through this process, Ukrainians will be eligible for work authorization.

Beginning on April 25, 2022, U.S.-based individuals and entities can apply to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to sponsor Ukrainian citizens who have been displaced by the war with Russia through the Uniting for Ukraine process, which will go live that day on the DHS website. Any U.S. citizen or individual, including representatives of non-government organizations, can sponsor Ukrainian applicants. Individuals and organizations seeking to sponsor Ukrainian citizens in the United States will be required to declare their financial support and pass security background checks to protect against exploitation and abuse. The Department of Homeland Security will administer the program. Eligibility requirements will include required vaccinations and other public health requirements, as well as biographic and biometric screening, vetting, and security checks.

The Department of Homeland Security strongly encourages Ukrainians seeking refuge in the United States who do not have, and are not eligible for, a visa to seek entry via Uniting for Ukraine from Europe, this will be the safest and most efficient way to pursue temporary refuge in the United States. The U.S. government is working with European partners to ensure Ukrainians can meet the vaccination requirements of Uniting for Ukraine. Ukrainians should not travel to Mexico to pursue entry into the United States. Following the launch of Uniting for Ukraine, Ukrainians who present at land U.S. ports of entry without a valid visa or without pre-authorization to travel to the United States through Uniting for Ukraine will be denied entry and referred to apply through this program.

In addition to Uniting for Ukraine, the United States is announcing a series of measures designed to expand access to existing legal pathways for Ukrainian citizens.

The Department of State will expand U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) operations in Europe to provide eligible Ukrainians with greater access to refugee resettlement processing under the Lautenberg program, while also expanding referral mechanisms for Ukrainians and others fleeing Russia’s war in Ukraine who are in need of permanent resettlement.

As part of these efforts, the Department of State will expand U.S. resettlement operations in Europe to provide more resources to process Ukrainian citizens for refugee resettlement under the Lautenberg program, and will expand referral mechanisms for Ukrainian citizens and others fleeing the war in Ukraine to the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP). To do so, the United States is working with European partners, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees and NGOs to identify particularly vulnerable Ukrainian citizens and others fleeing the conflict who may warrant permanent resettlement through USRAP. These particularly vulnerable populations include women and girls, children, older persons with special needs, members of ethnic and religious minority groups, LGBTQI+ persons, persons with disabilities, medically fragile individuals, and stateless persons.

In addition, European embassies and consulates are increasing, to the extent possible, the number of nonimmigrant visa appointments and ensuring there is an expedited visa appointment program for individuals with humanitarian, medical, or other extraordinary circumstances to get priority access.

Our attorneys are continuing to monitor the situation, and are available to answer any questions you may have about the Uniting for Ukraine program and other options that may be available to you.

]]>