In last month's issue, we began a discussion of a vexatious practice of some matrimonial litigants: They consult with attorneys whose services they have no intention of engaging simply to disqualify them from being able to represent their spouses. Attorneys affected by such "serial consulters" need to know what their options and obligations are.
With a Democratic president and a larger Democratic majority in Congress, we have already seen significant changes in tax laws and federal legislation affecting different aspects of our lives. What will these new laws mean for our divorcing clients and how should our clients change their legal strategies in anticipation of these new laws?
Last month's article discussed the First Department's reasoning in the appeal of <i>Wechsler v. Wechsler</i>, 866 NYS2d 120 (1st Dept. 2008). Herein, we take an in-depth look at the decision itself.
In the past, and even now to some extent, many medicinal substances were used because they seemed to work, even though the specific mechanism, pharmacology or pharmacodynamics were not precisely understood. That is part of the reason for the lengthy and complex new drug approval process through the FDA.
Alleged Oral Copyright License No Bar to Infringement Suit<br>Musical Compositions' Valuation Upheld<br>Song Suit Against Destiny's Child Sent to Trial
In recent years, there has been a growing number of dry cleaners claiming to be "organic," "green," or "eco-friendly." While that may be true with respect to some, many dry cleaners continue to use a cleaning method involving the use of a solvent called perchloroethylene, commonly known as perc. And, there seems to be an increasing number of lawsuits stemming from environmental problems associated with historic dry cleaning operations utilizing this chemical.
This article reviews the fundamental underpinnings of the concept of insurable interest, and certain recent cases that have grappled with the scope of insurable interest and have articulated a more meaningful application of the concept to claims under first-party property policies.
That the pace of change is "accelerating" is surely an understatement. What seemed almost a near certainty a year ago — that law firms would fully and permanently embrace work-from-home — is experiencing a seeming reversal. While many firms have, in fact, embraced hybrid operations, the meaning of hybrid has evolved from "office optional," to an average required 2 days a week, to now many firms coming out with four-day work week mandates — this time, with teeth.
This year at Legalweek, there was little doubt on what the annual takeaway topic would be. As much as I tried to avoid it for fear of beating the proverbial dead horse, it was impossible not to talk about generative AI, ChatGPT, and all that goes with it. Some fascinating discussions were had and many aspects of AI were uncovered.
RPAPL ' 1331 and RPAPL ' 1403 Notices of Pendency are requisite elements for foreclosing a mortgage. <i>See, Chiarelli v. Kotsifos</i>, 5 A.D.3d 345 (a notice of pendency is a prerequisite to obtaining a judgment in a mortgage foreclosure action); <i>Campbell v. Smith</i>, 309 A.D.2d 581, 582 (a notice of pendency is required in a foreclosure action under RPAPL Article 13). In contrast, an ex parte CPLR Article 65 Notice of Pendency (the "Notice") is not required but it is a significant tool in an action claiming title to, or an interest in or the use or enjoyment of, another's land. The filer does not have to make a meritorious showing or post a bond. Article 65 provides mechanisms for the defendant-owner to vacate the Notice that caused an unilaterally imposed restraint on its realty. But, recent case law establishes the near futility of such efforts if the plaintiff has satisfied the minimal statutory requisites for filing the Notice.
