The Millennial Lawyer Podcast with Mark Shirian

Video Game Addiction and the Law

Episode Summary:
In this episode, Mark Shirian breaks down the rise of video game addiction lawsuits targeting major developers like Epic Games, Activision Blizzard, Sony, and Nintendo. He explains how game design features such as loot boxes, daily rewards, and time-limited events are being challenged in court for fostering compulsive play and harming teens. Mark also explores defenses raised by gaming companies, the role of the WHO’s classification of gaming disorder, and how these lawsuits could reshape the future of the gaming industry.
Key Timestamps:
00:01:20 – What video game addiction litigation means and why big companies are targeted00:03:45 – How courts evaluate causation and defenses from developers00:05:10 – Signs of addiction in teens and how they strengthen legal claims00:06:50 – WHO’s recognition of gaming disorder and its influence on lawsuits00:08:30 – Why MDL was denied and California’s coordinated proceeding explained00:09:40 – First Amendment defenses raised by gaming companies00:11:00 – Damages sought: microtransactions, therapy costs, and emotional distress00:12:20 – Potential industry changes and regulation if lawsuits succeed
About the Show
The Millennial Lawyer Podcast breaks down key legal issues that impact everyday life. Hosted by Mark Shirian, this podcast provides expert insights on personal injury law, corporate liability, and legal challenges affecting the modern world. Whether you’re navigating an insurance claim, dealing with a lawsuit, or just want to stay informed about your legal rights, this show is here to help.

Your Injury, Their Delay – Holding Insurance Companies Accountable for Bad Faith

Episode Summary
In Episode 23 of The Millennial Lawyer Podcast, attorney Mark Shirian breaks down the critical issue of insurance company bad faith. From explaining what bad faith means in the context of personal injury and insurance claims, to outlining red flags policyholders should watch for, Mark provides a comprehensive guide to understanding how insurers sometimes put their own interests above their duty to policyholders.
He also explains the legal framework in New York, the types of damages that may be recovered, and strategies for proving bad faith when insurers use delay tactics, lowball offers, or improper denials. Whether dealing with auto, health, or disability insurance, this episode offers practical advice for anyone facing unfair insurance practices.
Key Timestamps
0:55 – What is insurance bad faith? Defining bad faith and how it differs from a simple claim denial.2:10 – Red flags of insurer misconduct. Common tactics insurers use to delay or deny valid claims.4:20 – Bad faith lawsuits in New York. When and how policyholders can sue insurers directly.6:00 – Types of damages recoverable. From consequential losses to emotional distress and punitive damages.7:30 – Proving intentional delay or denial. Evidence and investigative methods attorneys use to build a bad faith case.9:10 – Bad faith across different insurance types. Auto, health, and disability insurers and how each may act in bad faith.10:40 – Practical steps for policyholders. Documentation strategies, filing complaints, and consulting an attorney early.
About the Show
The Millennial Lawyer Podcast breaks down key legal issues that impact everyday life. Hosted by Mark Shirian, this podcast provides expert insights on personal injury law, corporate liability, and legal challenges affecting the modern world. Whether you’re navigating an insurance claim, dealing with a lawsuit, or just want to stay informed about your legal rights, this show is here to help.

Danger on Wheels: When E-Scooter and E-Bike Rides Go Wrong

Episode Summary
Attorney Mark Shirian examines the growing issue of e-scooter and e-bike accidents in New York, highlighting their distinct legal challenges compared to traditional vehicle crashes. The episode covers liability factors, insurance limitations, the critical role of GPS and app data, and practical steps for victims to secure compensation, offering essential guidance for navigating injury claims.
Key Timestamps
00:00 - Show Introduction and Welcome
01:30 - Legal Differences in E-Scooter and E-Bike Accidents
04:00 - Determining Liability in E-Scooter Crashes
07:00 - Insurance Coverage for E-Scooter Riders
10:00 - Impact of Helmet Use on Injury Claims
13:00 - Using GPS Data in E-Scooter Cases
16:00 - Common Misconceptions About E-Bike Crashes
19:00 - Steps for Victims of E-Scooter Accidents
22:00 - Conclusion and Call to Action
About the Show
The Millennial Lawyer Podcast breaks down key legal issues that impact everyday life. Hosted by Mark Shirian, this podcast provides expert insights on personal injury law, corporate liability, and legal challenges affecting the modern world. Whether you’re navigating an insurance claim, dealing with a lawsuit, or just want to stay informed about your legal rights, this show is here to help.

Bullied at Work: When Harassment Crosses the Legal Line

Episode Summary:In this episode of The Millennial Lawyer Podcast, New York employment attorney Mark Shirian breaks down the critical differences between workplace bullying and unlawful harassment. Many employees struggle to understand where poor management ends and illegal discrimination begins. Mark explains what legally qualifies as a hostile work environment, how retaliation claims work, and the role of power dynamics between supervisors and employees. He also discusses the importance of documenting harassment, the surprising role of social media in evidence gathering, and shares real-world cases where victims successfully turned toxic workplace experiences into justice.
Whether you are facing workplace harassment, discrimination, or retaliation, this episode provides essential insights into how to recognize your rights, protect yourself, and build a strong legal case.
Key Timestamps:
01:42 – The difference between bullying and unlawful harassment04:20 – What legally defines a hostile work environment07:15 – The best forms of evidence in harassment cases11:05 – Common myths employees believe about workplace rights14:22 – How retaliation claims often strengthen a case18:40 – Why power dynamics increase employer liability22:10 – Using social media as evidence in harassment cases25:55 – A pregnancy discrimination case with real change as the outcome30:12 – Steps to take immediately if you suspect harassment34:18 – Mark’s final advice: document everything
About the Show
The Millennial Lawyer Podcast breaks down key legal issues that impact everyday life. Hosted by Mark Shirian, this podcast provides expert insights on personal injury law, corporate liability, and legal challenges affecting the modern world. Whether you’re navigating an insurance claim, dealing with a lawsuit, or just want to stay informed about your legal rights, this show is here to help.

Hidden Hazards: Suing for Injuries in Short-Term Rentals

Episode Summary
In this episode of The Millennial Lawyer Podcast, New York litigation attorney Mark Shirian examines the rising legal risks associated with short-term rentals such as Airbnb and Vrbo. He breaks down how these cases differ from traditional premises liability claims, who may be held responsible, and what evidence is critical for success. From gaps in insurance coverage to the importance of documenting hazards, Mark offers valuable insights for renters, property owners, and anyone considering short-term rental arrangements.
Listeners will walk away with a deeper understanding of how liability works in these cases, what steps to take after an injury, and how to protect themselves legally when using or managing short-term rentals.
Key Timestamps
0:45 – Why short-term rental injuries are legally different from hotel or residential claims3:10 – Who can be held liable: property owners, platforms, or third parties6:20 – How Airbnb shields itself through user agreements and Section 230 protections9:15 – Using property listings and guest reviews as evidence in legal claims12:05 – The importance of warnings for hazards and owner duties under New York law15:40 – Why documenting the scene with photos and video is critical for your case18:50 – Real-world case example of a staircase injury and hidden evidence21:15 – Insurance coverage gaps that often surprise plaintiffs24:00 – Essential steps to take immediately after being injured at a short-term rental
Episode Description
Short-term rentals like Airbnb and Vrbo have transformed the travel industry—but they also come with hidden legal hazards. In this episode, New York litigation attorney Mark Shirian discusses the unique legal challenges these cases present, including who may be held liable, how insurance coverage often falls short, and why documenting the scene is critical after an injury.
Mark also explains how reviews, listing photos, and communication records can serve as powerful evidence, and what renters should do to protect their rights if an accident occurs. Whether you’re a guest, a property owner, or considering listing a rental, this episode provides essential insights into the growing world of short-term rental liability.

AI in the Courtroom – How Technology Is Reshaping Personal Injury Law

Episode Summary:
Mark Shirian discusses how artificial intelligence and digital tools are revolutionizing personal injury law. He explores AI's impact on case management, from analyzing medical records to predicting outcomes, while emphasizing the irreplaceable human element in litigation, especially in jury trials.
 
Key Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
00:42 - Personal injury lawyers' contingency fee model
00:49 - AI's role in streamlining legal tasks
01:18 - Discussion on AI's limitations in replacing human lawyers
02:52 - Practical applications of AI in case preparation
03:31 - AI reliability in settlement estimations
05:20 - Privacy concerns and data security
06:24 - Technology empowering small law firms
07:03 - Future of AI in litigation
 
About The Show:
“The Millennial Lawyer Podcast” explores modern legal practice through conversations with innovative attorneys. This episode features New York litigation attorney Mark Shirian, who shares insights on integrating AI tools while maintaining the personal touch essential to legal practice.

Justice Delayed, Not Denied – Understanding New York’s Look-Back Laws

Episode Summary:
Mark Shirian discusses New York's groundbreaking look-back laws - the Child Victims Act and Adult Survivors Act - and their impact on abuse survivors seeking justice. The episode explores the complexities of handling decades-old abuse cases, evidence gathering challenges, and the importance of trauma-informed legal representation.
 
Key Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
00:25 - Explaining look-back windows and statute of limitations
01:21 - Overview of Child Victims Act and Adult Survivors Act
02:18 - Differences between CVA and ASA regarding consent
03:12 - Process of filing claims for historical abuse cases
04:44 - Importance of documentation and client credibility
05:25 - Trauma-informed approach to handling sensitive cases
07:11 - Legal and emotional challenges for survivors
08:50 - Success story: $1.5M settlement for 1958 abuse case
11:29 - Future outlook for survivor-focused legislation
 
About The Show:
“The Millennial Lawyer Podcast” delivers insightful conversations about contemporary legal issues, featuring experienced attorneys and legal professionals who share practical knowledge and real-world experiences.

Neglected and Vulnerable – Holding Nursing Homes Accountable

Episode Summary:
In this insightful episode, personal injury attorney Mark Shirian discusses nursing home negligence and elder abuse accountability. The conversation explores critical warning signs of neglect, legal protections for residents, and practical steps families can take to protect their loved ones in care facilities.
 
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
00:41 - Key signs of nursing home neglect and abuse
01:19 - Why elderly residents often don't report abuse
01:53 - Understanding preventable injuries like bed sores and falls
02:15 - Liability distribution between caregivers and facilities
02:44 - Important documentation for proving negligence
03:24 - Challenges in proving nursing home negligence cases
04:55 - The role of empathy in elder abuse cases
05:49 - New York legal protections for nursing home residents
06:36 - Case study: High-risk fall incident
08:53 - Proactive steps for families to prevent abuse
 
About The Show:
“The Millennial Lawyer Podcast” delivers practical legal insights and expert perspectives on contemporary legal issues. Each episode features in-depth discussions with legal professionals, offering valuable information for both practitioners and the public.
For legal assistance with elder care neglect cases, visit shirianpc.com

The Sideline Struggle: Navigating Sports Injury Claims

Episode Summary:
New York litigation attorney Mark Shirian discusses the legal complexities of sports injuries, from school athletics to recreational leagues. The episode covers assumption of risk, liability waivers, youth sports considerations, and the evolving culture in sports regarding athlete safety and empowerment.
 
Key Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
00:50 - Differences between sports injury cases and typical injury claims
02:15 - Understanding assumption of risk in athletic injury lawsuits
02:56 - Discussion on CTE cases and concussion awareness
04:36 - Enforceability of liability waivers
05:13 - Legal considerations for youth sports
06:28 - Common sports injuries in litigation
06:58 - Case study: Wrestling program lawsuit
10:05 - Cultural shifts in sports regarding athlete safety
12:10 - Steps to take after sports injuries
 
About The Show:
“The Millennial Lawyer Podcast” explores contemporary legal topics through the lens of modern practice. Mark Shirian brings his expertise in litigation and personal injury law to help listeners understand complex legal matters in an accessible way.

Litigation vs. Settlement: What Every Client Needs to Consider

Episode Summary:
In this episode of The Millennial Lawyer Podcast, host Kevin Rosenquist and personal injury attorney Mark Shirian discuss the crucial factors clients should consider when deciding between litigation and settlement. They explore the psychological impacts of trials, managing client expectations, and effective negotiation strategies.
 
Key Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
00:19 - Key factors in litigation vs. settlement decisions
01:14 - Discussion on clients' "day in court" expectations
02:37 - Assessing case strength
03:41 - Time and cost considerations
04:25 - Managing client expectations about case value
06:00 - Psychological effects of litigation on clients
07:37 - Common misconceptions about litigation
09:19 - Non-monetary aspects of settlements
10:26 - Benefits and drawbacks analysis
11:44 - Settlement negotiation strategies
13:32 - Client-attorney communication importance
 
About The Show:
The Millennial Lawyer Podcast features personal injury attorney Mark Shirian discussing contemporary legal topics and sharing insights from his practice. The show aims to educate listeners about various aspects of legal proceedings and provide practical advice for both clients and legal professionals.