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Standing Together for Maui: Lether Law Group’s Commitment to Wildfire Relief

by | Aug 16, 2023 | News & Updates

 Aloha Friends, Families, and Clients,

 As a native of Maui and a resident of Lahaina, witnessing the devastation caused by the recent wildfires has deeply affected me, the landscapes now scarred by the flames are the places I grew up in and the home that I now share with my own Family. When the land you've grown up on faces such adversity, it's not just news - it's personal.

 Growing up on Maui, I was surrounded by a community that lived and breathed the values of unity, resilience, and the Aloha spirit. Today, more than ever, these values guide our response to the challenges faced by our beloved Homeland.

 I am proud to say that several Attorneys at Lether Law Group are from the State of Hawaii. For them, and for me, this initiative is more than just a fundraiser; this is a heartfelt effort to give back to the communities and lands that have given us so much.

About the Maui Strong Fund

The Maui Strong Fund, an initiative spearheaded by the Hawaii Community Foundation, has been established to provide rapid resources in times of disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. As Maui faces the brunt of devastating wildfires, this fund is currently channeling its efforts to support the affected communities and the recovery of the Island's cherished landscapes. The Hawaii Community Foundation, through the Maui Strong Fund, collaborates closely with state and county leaders, nonprofit organizations, businesses, and philanthropists to ensure immediate and effective response to emerging needs.

 Our Commitment

 Given my deep-rooted connection and the ties of our attorneys to Hawaii, we felt the call to action. As the founder of Lether Law Group, I pledge to match every donation you generously offer, dollar for dollar, up to $5,000. This initiative ensures that your support has double the impact, fortifying our collective efforts for the Maui Strong Fund. Based upon my national and international business relationships within the insurance industry, we are confident that we can obtain significant contributions.

 Beyond our donation initiative, myself, our Hawaii licensed Attorneys, and our Lahaina office are providing Pro Bono (free advice) to residents seeking assistance from FEMA, government agencies, and property and auto insurers. During my 35 years of practicing law, I have handled several significant wildfire claims and hundreds of other fire losses. I am approved as a FEMA Regional Counsel and regularly represent national and international insurers in natural disaster claims. 

Lether Law Group combines the financial commitment of Lether Law Group with our extensive expertise in disaster claims and legal counsel. This makes us able to provide comprehensive support. Through both direct monetary aid and Pro Bono services, our collective endeavors ensure that those affected in Maui receive timely, effective, and compassionate relief in their moment of need.

Your Role 

Each donation, no matter its size, can pave the way for monumental change. By contributing, you'll be directly aiding disaster relief, supporting families as they rebuild, and playing a part in restoring the captivating allure of Maui and its surrounding islands.

I urge you to share this fundraiser with your acquaintances and loved ones, for in unity lies our strength. Together, we can reinforce the unyielding spirit of Maui and contribute to its rejuvenation.

Every penny raised will be wholeheartedly donated to the Hawaii Community Foundation's 'Maui Strong Fund’. 

With utmost gratitude and on behalf of everyone at Lether Law Group, I thank you for your magnanimity, compassion, and shared devotion to Hawaii's splendor.

Mahalo nui loa (Thank you very much), 

 For further information about the endeavors of the Hawaii Community Foundation's "Maui Strong Fund," please visit their official website:

https://www.hawaiicommunityfoundation.org/maui-strong

Thoughts and Prayers to our Maui and Big Island Ohana

by | Aug 10, 2023 | News & Updates

The Lether Law Group ohana sends our thoughts and prayers to our family, friends, clients, and all those affected by the fires on Maui and the Big Island of Hawaiʻi. Witnessing the devastation and seeing those who have been affected is truly heartbreaking. Hawaiʻi is home for many of us and will always hold a special place in our hearts. We send our aloha to the people of Hawaiʻi. Ua Mau ke Ea o ka ʻĀina I ka Pono – The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness.

For those who are willing and able to support our Hawaiʻi ohana, please see the resources linked below on how to help. Mahalo nui loa for your support.

Construction Defects In Tropical Environments

by | Jul 16, 2023 | Construction Law, Events, News & Updates

Building failures can result from a number of causes. A failure can be explained as much by weather as bad construction. For example, ice dams resulting in water and roof damage are common in colder regions. As a result, it is essential to be aware of the interaction between construction deficiencies and the environment in order to address weather-related failures.

The takeaway in many instances is that certain types of construction do not work in certain weather conditions. This is readily apparent in the tropics. For example, wood frame structures are subject to failure in regions of high heat, rain, and humidity. Steel or concrete construction is preferable.

Another example is the improper use of stucco in a tropical green environment. Exposure to marine air, salts and elevated temperatures can cause effervescence in stucco and concrete requiring the replacement of the entire building envelope.

Stucco corrosion of property in Hawaii due to exposure to marine and high temperatures

Another everyday exposure in tropical climates is marine oxidation of exterior metal. Systems such as window frames, window door frames, and metal hardware exposed to salt, marine air and high heat routinely corrode. Finally, temperature inversion, the relationship between hot outside air and interior air cooled by air conditioning and HVAC systems can lead to numerous defects.

For all these reasons, it is essential to consider what building materials and types of construction should be used in tropical conditions.

Lether Law Group's Hawaii Office Is currently involved in several construction defect matters in Hawaii. We are proud to have several attorneys born or raised in Hawaii and licensed to practice there.

Lether Law Group has the advantage of over 35 years of construction insurance coverage and litigation experience, coupled with local know-how and an affinity for Hawaii.

If you are involved in any construction claims in Hawaii or other tropical zones, feel free to contact us with any questions.

Insurance Coverage & Volcanic Activity

by | Jan 12, 2023 | Insurance Law, News & Updates

After nearly 40 years of silence, Moku‘āweoweo, the summit caldera of Mauna Loa on the Big Island of Hawaii, began erupting. The eruption lasted for approximately twelve days from November 27, 2022 until December 10, 2022. Big Island residents are no stranger to volcanic activity, but the unpredictable nature of these eruptions can often leave local residents and insurers unprepared. Outside of the insurance industry, most people do not consider or think about whether there is coverage for volcanic related activity under an insurance policy. 

On the Big Island of Hawaii, homeowner’s policies typically cover property damage caused by lava flow. Volcanic eruptions are not specifically excluded under standard homeowner’s policies. Additionally, some homeowner’s policies may include a specific endorsement extending coverage for property damage to dwellings or other structures caused by volcanic eruptions. Under this type of endorsement, coverage is often available for losses caused by eruption, explosion, effusion of a volcano, or a moving outpour of lava.

Homeowners and insurance coverage professionals should also be aware that coverage may be limited under homeowner’s policies that include an earth movement exclusion. When an eruption begins, earthquakes and other seismic activity oftentimes occur throughout the course of the eruption. Pursuant to standard earth movement exclusions in Hawaii, coverage for property damage may be excluded if the property damage is caused by earthquake, land shock waves or tremors before, during, or after a volcanic eruption as opposed to damage from lava and/or the eruption itself. This requires an examination of the proximate cause of the damage itself and can be a complicated issue.

The nature and extent of available insurance coverage after a volcanic eruption can be a complicated issue requiring a careful examination of causation, the nature and extent of the damages involved, and a thorough review of the terms and conditions of the applicable insurance policy. Needless to say, with the proper awareness of exactly what is and is not covered under homeowners’ respective insurance policies, the Big Island of Hawaii remains a dream destination to live and/or vacation. Our firm proudly represents clients across the Hawaiian Islands and we are always happy to answer any coverage related questions you may have.

Hau’oli Makahiki Hou (Happy New Year) to all!

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