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Thursday, March 31, 2011

Y! Alert: TheLegalIntelligencer.com


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Panel Rejects Class Action Against Clifford Chance Top
In the wake of the scandalous $1.7 billion collapse of Diagnostic Ventures Inc., investors have won the right to pursue class action fraud claims against the firm's auditors at Deloitte & Touche, but lost their bid to bring class claims against lawyers from Clifford Chance.
 
SEPTA Settles Trademark Infringement Suit Against Law Firm Top
SEPTA has settled its trademark infringement suit against personal injury firm Mednick Mezyk & Kredo over the firm's use of a SEPTA bus on its website, www.MySeptaLawyer.com, and the firm's phone number, 888-SEPTA-LAW.
 
Attorney Hit With $100K in Sanctions Top
A federal judge has imposed sanctions of more than $100,000 on attorney Wayne A. Schaible of McCann Schaible & Wall for causing a mistrial in February 2010 that derailed a multiweek trial of a wrongful death suit.
 
N.J. Justices Asked: Can a Judge Change His Mind? Top
It's said that intelligence allows for a change of mind, but a judge who rethought and reversed his own summary judgment ruling after hearing new evidence has caused consternation enough to demand the state Supreme Court's intervention.
 
3rd Circuit Privilege Ruling Worries Defense Attorneys Top
Corporate executives may need to be more careful about what they say to outside counsel during internal company probes. And they'll want to make sure that the lawyers they talk to are representing them personally, and not just their company.
 
Sting Operation Focus of Dismissal Motions Top
Criminal defense lawyers representing a group of weapons dealers in a foreign bribery prosecution in Washington want a federal judge to throw out the case over allegations the government crafted and closely scripted a conspiracy just to prosecute it.
 
Court Upholds Closed-Captioning During Redskins Games Top
Music blasted over the public address system during Washington Redskins games is part of the entertainment experience, and deaf fans should have access to the lyrics of those songs, a federal appeals court has ruled.
 
Job Discrimination Hits Low-Income Women Hardest, Study Shows Top
Discrimination lawsuits brought by working professionals tend to draw public attention, but it's low-wage workers who suffer the harshest consequences in those circumstances, according to a report by the Center for WorkLife Law at University of California Hastings College of the Law.
 
US judge halts anti-union bargaining law Top
MADISON, Wisconsin (AP) - The showdown over Wisconsin's law that strips most public workers of nearly all their collective bargaining rights shifted from the Statehouse back to the courts Tuesday, but it remained unclear when or even whether the measure would take effect.
 
Wal-Mart sex-bias case hits possible court block Top
WASHINGTON (AP) ? The Supreme Court appears ready to block a massive sex discrimination lawsuit against Wal-Mart on behalf of up to 1.6 million women, and that could make it harder for other workers nationwide to bring class-action claims against large employers.
 
Slidell woman's case headed to Supreme Court Top
SLIDELL, La. (AP) -The case of a Slidell, La., woman, who claims a generic drug caused damage to her brain leaving her disabled, will be heard by the U.S. Supreme Court.
 
Judge: Plaintiffs' Immigration Status 'Irrelevant' to Wage Claims Top
A Boston federal judge has called the question of whether two plaintiffs are illegal aliens "irrelevant" to their Fair Labor Standards Act claims about unpaid wages and their "suitability" to lead a class.
 
Dismissal Over Post on Internet Raises 1st Amendment Issue Top
The former Palm Beach, Fla., fire chief is suing the island enclave that he served, claiming his constitutional rights to free speech and due process were violated when he was fired for an online post on the prickly issue of pensions.
 
Sales Training or Religious Indoctrination? Top
PITTSBURGH (AP) - A woman claims in a federal lawsuit that she was branded an "atheist," and more or less fired by a western Pennsylvania bathroom remodeling business for objecting to sales training she contends amounted to "religious indoctrination."
 
Pa. celebrity Legal Stalker gets probation in cop case Top
MEADVILLE, Pa. (AP) - A northwestern Pennsylvania woman who has targeted Michael Jordan and Paris Hilton in frivolous lawsuits has been sentenced to one year on probation and ordered to undergo a mental evaluation.
 
Pa. jail's strip-search lawsuit may benefit kids Top
PITTSBURGH (AP) - A $3 million settlement for Allegheny County Jail inmates who were wrongly strip-searched may benefit many of their children instead.
 
Another Campaign Finance Law in Trouble? Top
A key feature of Arizona's public financing system for elections appeared to be in serious constitutional trouble on Monday at the U.S. Supreme Court.
 
Banks Locking Out Homeowners Prematurely, Fla. Attorneys Allege Top
John Ferrari came home after work one night to find the locks on his Lauderhill, Fla., home changed and a sign on the window declaring that the property was being managed by Chase Home LLC.
 
Circuit: Cross-Appeal 'Egregious' Attempt to 'Game the System' Top
A generic pharmaceutical company's move to preserve litigation options in case an appellate court reversed its lower court win on one set of grounds was "particularly egregious," the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit has ruled.
 
New Jersey man protests routine strip search Top
WASHINGTON (AP) - Albert Florence was strip-searched twice in seven days in two New Jersey jails after he was arrested on a warrant for a traffic fine he had already paid.
 
Court to take up US sex bias claim vs. Wal-Mart Top
WASHINGTON (AP) - Christine Kwapnoski hasn't done too badly in nearly 25 years in the Wal-Mart family, making more than $60,000 a year in a job she enjoys most days.
 
Bonds' Attorney Used to Wrestling Matches Top
SAN FRANCISCO ? Allen Ruby is used to flamboyant wrestling matches pitting one larger-than-life character against another ? and not just in the courtroom.
 
NYSE Arbitration Ends With 1st Circuit Confirmation of Award Top
Former employees of an investment-banking firm that collected a $14.7 million arbitration award don't get "another bite at the apple" just because they didn't pursue all available options before the award's confirmation, a federal appeals court has held.
 
Justices Appear Reluctant to Extend 6th Amendment Rights Top
A former solicitor general and a former Supreme Court clerk vigorously sparred before the justices on Wednesday over whether indigent people have a constitutional right to counsel if they face jail for failing to pay child support.
 
Public Interest: The Public Interest Calendar of Events for April Top
As the Philadelphia Bar Association's public interest section continues its 20th anniversary celebration in 2011, the following events are set for April.
 
Ex-Qwest CEO: I won't pay for attorneys' underwear Top
TRENTON, N.J. (AP) -The former chief executive officer of Qwest Communications on Wednesday sued the lawyers who represented him in his insider-trading case, claiming they "grossly overbilled" him and sought payment for staff breakfasts, underwear and in-room movies.
 
Nevada considers cutting trans fats at schools Top
CARSON CITY, Nev. (AP) - Certain cookies, crackers and chips would be history on public school campuses and their vending machines if a Nevada bill passes.
 
PA Councilman's comment was damaging lawsuit says Top
POTTSTOWN, Pa. ? (AP) Former Borough Authority member Don Read has filed a lawsuit against the borough seeking $8,000 in damages claiming Borough Council Vice President Mark Gibson inferred in a public meeting that Read was someone's "lackey."
 
Panel Cites Employer's 'Corrective Action,' Tosses Race Bias Suit Top
A recent decision by the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals provides guidance about an employer's responsibility to discipline employees when another co-worker reports they harassed him. The court emphasized that a plaintiff "must demonstrate that the employer knew or should have known about the harassment yet failed to take prompt and appropriate remedial action."
 
Orie retrial could be delayed by motions, appeals Top
PITTSBURGH (AP) - Republican state Sen. Jane Orie's retrial on public corruption charges is likely to be delayed because of motions or appeals.
 
New Oregon law could target cigarette butts Top
SALEM, Ore. (AP) - Tossing a cigarette butt to the ground could bring a smoker a $90 fine for littering under a law Oregon lawmakers are considering in Salem.
 
Texas bill would ban texting by public officials Top
AUSTIN, Texas (AP) ? A Texas lawmaker wants to ban emails, text messages and Internet posting by city and state leaders when they are doing the public's business.
 
Bayer Loses $136.8 Mil. Verdict Over Genetically Modified Rice Top
It has been almost six years since the U.S. Department of Agriculture first reported that genetically modified rice developed by Bayer CropScience had contaminated U.S. rice supplies, cutting off American rice farmers and millers from European markets.
 
Justices Struggle With Attorney Fees in Election Case Top
With a small town, dirty tricks election as the backdrop, an attorney fee fight played out in the Supreme Court on Tuesday with no easily declared winner.
 
Judge finds GenOn liable for fouling Conemaugh Top
PITTSBURGH (AP) - GenOn Northeast Management Co. is liable for fouling the Conemaugh River with metal discharges from a power plant in Indiana County, a federal magistrate has ruled, opening the door to a maximum civil penalty of more than $300 million.
 
Vt. Supreme Court hearing open records cases Top
SOUTH ROYALTON, Vt. (AP) - Vermont's highest court is hearing arguments on a pair of public records cases involving investigations into police and child pornography.
 
Civil unions debate possible in CO Senate Top
DENVER (AP) - A same-sex civil unions bill expected before the Colorado Senate has both sides ready for a long debate.
 
Mass. Judge OKs Baristas' Class Action Against Starbucks Top
A Boston federal judge has certified a Massachusetts class action against Starbucks Corp. over its tip policy on the same day plaintiffs appealed a New York federal court's judgment on the same policy to the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.
 
ABA Focuses on Employment Data in Accreditation Drafts Top
The latest proposed drafts of the American Bar Association's law school accreditation standards are out, and they would change how schools report graduate employment information, impose tougher bar passage rate requirements and ease limits on the number of credit hours students may take through distance education.
 
Custody Attorney Campaign Works to Stabilize Dauphin Co. Community Top
According to Shana Walter, there is very little that can compare to seeing kids and parents being reunited, in some cases for the first time in years.
 
Estate Planning for Digital Assets Top
In our increasingly digital and online world, it might be time to think about digital assets, a topic that probably hasn't yet occurred to many estate planners. Blog contributor Robert H. Louis explains what they are and what to do about it.
 
The Google Book Dilemma: Are Copyright Law and Class Actions Irreconcilable? Top
The judge's decision in Authors' Guild v. Google raises an important question: can a class of copyright holders ever settle a claim under Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 23? Blog contributor Joshua Wolson walks us through.
 
The Tell-Tale Ring Top
The third post from our new blog contributor, who goes by the moniker of Barely Legal. BL will offer humorous musings on what it's really like to work for a law firm. Today's topic: What you should never see at a meeting...
 
MontCo Pro Bono Opportunity Tomorrow: Wills For Heroes Needs Your Help! Top
If you want to get involved in pro bono work but aren't sure how to begin, the Montogmery Bar Association has you covered. Wills for Heroes has scheduled an event this Saturday, March 26, for the Norristown Police Department, and several lawyers and paralegals are needed to help at this time.
 
What Rule of Civil Procedure Governs Motions for Reconsideration? Top
Strictly speaking, there is no rule of civil procedure that expressly governs the timing, content, etc. of motions for reconsideration in general civil cases in PA. Blog contributor Mandi L. Scott examines the issue.
 
Kirk to Lead Reed Smith's Real Estate Practice Firmwide Top
Less than a year after leading a team of seven attorneys from Pepper Hamilton to Reed Smith, Dusty E. Kirk will take over as head of Reed Smith's firmwide real estate department.
 
Preventing Embezzlement in Your Law Firm Top
Blog contributor and Citrin Cooperman partner Joseph S. Barbagallo cautions law firms against internal fraud and offers suggestions for preventative measures.
 
Analysis of Wisinski: Final Thoughts Top
Blog contributor Charles Haddick wraps up his analysis of a Western District bad faith ruling, paying close attention this time to where the court may have departed from conventional, established Pennsylvania law.
 
Will Local Employers Be Required to Give Paid Sick Leave? Top
Employment lawyer and blog contributor Eric B. Meyer highlights a new bill before Philadelphia City Council regarding mandatory paid sick leave.
 
Introducing the Legal Departments of the Year Awards! Top
GC Mid-Atlantic is now accepting nominations for its first annual "Legal Departments of the Year Awards," aimed at highlighting the outstanding corporate legal departments in our region that oftentimes go unrecognized.
 
Reporter's Notebook: More Billable Rate Info for Philly Firms' PHA Work Top
In this companion piece to the Legal's article titled "Attorneys Forced to Defend PHA Billing, Staffing Practices," reporters Gina Passarella and Amaris Elliott-Engel add to the list of firms that did work for the Philadelphia Housing Authority since 2005 -- and the rates they charged.
 
Phila. OIG Reports Recovering & Saving $9.1 Mil. in 2010 Top
Because of investigations that resulted in city employees being terminated, suspended, making restitution, paying fines or forfeiting their pensions, Philadelphia's Office of the Inspector General reported this week that the office was able to save city taxpayers, or recover on behalf of them, $9.1 million in 2010.
 
Pa. Supreme Court Says It Shouldn't Have Taken Two Appeals Top
The state Supreme Court has issued orders this week saying it improvidently granted appeals in two cases argued before the court in its most recent oral argument session in Philadelphia.
 
NBA Sideline Chatter, Twitter and a Defamation Claim Top
Members of the press who "Tweet" interesting tidbits from live events like NBA games may run into some problems, as a lawsuit filed this week demonstrates. Blog contributor Joshua D. Wolson explores the issue.
 
Court Funding: Is It Time for Means Testing? Top
Blog contributor Tony Volpe wonders, since the combatants in large commercial disputes spend huge sums on their legal teams, does it work an injustice to have them pay more for access to the courts?
 
Introducing the Legal Departments of the Year Awards! Top
GC Mid-Atlantic is now accepting nominations for its first annual Legal Departments of the Year Awards, aimed at highlighting the outstanding corporate legal departments in our region that oftentimes go unrecognized.
 
Phila. Sheriff Agrees to Operational Reforms, But Independence Still an Open Question Top
Even as the First Judicial District, the Sheriff's Office and the city of Philadelphia signed memoranda of understanding today to reform the Sheriff's Office, a court takeover of some of the office's functions does not appear to be off the table yet.
 
The Benefits of Twitter for Lawyers: A Strategy for Engagement Top
Blog contributor Gina F. Rubel offers tips on how to make Twitter into a useful business tool.
 
Punishment of School District Not 'Appropriate' Relief Under IDEA Top
In C.W. v. The Rose Tree Media School District, the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals was asked to define the contours of "appropriate" relief for violations of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
 
Business Valuations: Types of Engagements and Reports Top
Contributor Terry Silver of Citrin Cooperman reviews the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants' Statement on Standards for Valuation Services (SSVS-1).
 
Ballard Represents TD Bank in Suit Against Former Client City of Harrisburg Top
Ballard Spahr is representing TD Bank in a lawsuit against the city of Harrisburg aimed at recouping part of nearly $300 million the city owes the bank related to an incinerator project, according to news reports.
 
The Legal's Diverse Attorneys of the Year Top
The editorial staff of The Legal Intelligencer has selected these 20 Pennsylvania diverse attorneys for recognition of their outstanding professional achievements in the two years since we last gave out the honor.
 
The Supreme Court's Shakespearean Approach to Arbitration Top
Blog contributor Joshua D. Wolson wonders if the U.S. Supreme Court may be taking notes from Shakespeare regarding its treatment of arbitration cases.
 
Ciavarella Begins Appeals Process With Series of Motions Top
Convicted last month of racketeering and honest services fraud, Former Luzerne County Common Pleas Court Judge Mark A. Ciavarella has filed a series of motions to have the most serious charges against him tossed.
 
Is Networking Non-Negotiable to Build a Healthy Practice? Top
Legal marketer and blogger Kimberley Alford Rice offers tips and suggestions for how to make the most of your next networking opportunity.
 
Finding My Very Own Jack of Hearts Top
The second post from our new blog contributor, who goes by the moniker of Barely Legal. BL will offer humorous musings on what it's really like to work for a law firm. Today's topic: Wishing for the perfect boss...
 
Wisinski and 'Lowball' Settlement Offers Top
Blog contributor Charles Haddick continues his analysis of a Western District ruling, paying close attention this time to the court's finding that settlement negotiations included "lowball" offers by the insurer, and constituted bad faith.
 
FJD Collection Efforts Showing Results Top
After two months of allowing former defendants to set up plans to pay tardy court fees, fines and costs without penalty, the First Judicial District is reporting that it is collecting 4 percent of that outstanding debt, exceeding debt industry expectations.
 
Abortion, Law and Reason Top
Blog contributor Tony Volpe addresses the unfortunate and disturbing revelations about the ?medical? clinic in West Philadelphia that have awakened all sorts of social and political monsters.
 
Generic v. Brand Drugs -- Will There Be Different Federal Standards? Top
Blog contributor Adrianne Walvoord notes that two appeals coming before the U.S. Supreme Court could impact whether state law failure-to-warn claims are pre-empted by the Hatch-Waxman Act.
 
Surprise! U.S. Supreme Court Says Words Matter Top
Blog contributor Joshua Wolson examines two recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions about federal pre-emption that show how much statutory language matters.
 
Contested Construction Contract Slows Progress on Phila. Family Courthouse Top
While the state's public works developer is moving ahead with plans to develop a new family courthouse in Philadelphia, the process has been slowed while the office responds to a protest to its decision on awarding the electrical contract for the building, a state Department of General Services spokesman said.
 
Can an Employer Legally Refuse to Hire a Smoker? Top
Employment lawyer and blog contributor Eric B. Meyer examines how companies firing -- or not hiring -- smokers might fare.
 
From Inside Out to Outside In: Seeing Your Case from a Different Perspective Top
Jury analyst and blog contribitor Melissa M. Gomez discusses the importance of having an informed outsider offer perspective on a case.
 
Automobile Accidents and the Practice, on 'The American Law Journal' Top
On Monday, Feb. 21, at 7 p.m. on Philadelphia CNN-News affiliate WFMZ-TV 69, "The American Law Journal" presents ?Auto Accident Claim? No Thanks.?
 
More Million-Plus Awards Out of Philly in 2010 Top
There were a few other cases involving awards over $1 million that we couldn't fit into the print version of the story, "FJD's Million-Plus Awards Increase by One-Third." So here are the details, including three cases not yet reported in The Legal.
 
Former WCJ Joins Pond Lehocky as Of Counsel Top
Peter E. Perry Jr., a former judge and judge manager of the Workers? Compensation Office of Adjudication, Southeastern District, has joined Philadelphia-based workers' compensation boutique Pond Lehocky Stern & Giordano as of counsel.
 
7 Ways to Increase Your Desktop Productivity Top
Blog contributor Neen James wants you to clear off your desk and straighten up your space - you'll be more productive at work if you're not surrounded by clutter!
 
Tips from Journalists: How to Avoid Being Blacklisted by the Media Top
Blog contributor Gina F. Rubel offers tips on how not to anger the journalists you're trying to reach.
 
Seeking Recommendations for Our 'Diverse Attorneys of the Year' Top
We at The Legal are busy preparing our "Diversity" supplement, and all that remains is to find those special lawyers to honor as "Diverse Attorneys of the Year." Which is where YOU come in.
 
What Baseball Teaches Us About Wealth Planning Top
The trustee charged with unraveling Bernie Madoff's wrongdoing has sued the New York Mets owners to recoup investment returns they received from investments with Madoff over many years. Blog contributor Robert H. Louis explores what impact this could have on your clients.
 
Analysis of Wisinksi: Negligence v. Bad Faith Top
Blog contributor Charles Haddick continues his analysis of a Western District ruling that is garnering plenty of attention: an insurance case where the judge found bad faith in the handling of the UM/UIM claim.
 
Montco Republicans Endorse Judicial Candidates Top
The Montgomery County Republican Committee has endorsed attorneys Daniel J. Clifford and Maureen C. Coggins to be the party's candidates in this year's election of two common pleas court judges.
 
Appellate Procedures Blog Intro - Part 2 Top
Blog contributor Mandi L. Scott continues her analysis of an issue concerning the proper start of an appeal in the federal courts, this time focusing on two cases that explore that line between ?clearly interlocutory? and what she calls ?questionably interlocutory.?
 
Reporter's Notebook: Powell a King-Sized Presence on Witness Stand Top
Robert J. Powell's nearly two hours on the witness stand at Mark Ciavarella?s federal racketeering trial Tuesday was highly eventful. And since The Legal's story could only covered a small portion of the proceedings, this blog post can fill out the picture.
 
Pepper Hamilton Adds Former Morgan Lewis Partner in Washington Top
Pepper Hamilton has bolstered its affordable housing and community development practice with the addition of Morgan Lewis & Bockius practice Henry Liu.
 
Update: Avandia Settlements Average $46K Top
Last week, The Legal reported that the first bellwether trial in the Avandia Multidistrict Litigation, based in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, did not go off because two plaintiffs' attorneys settled their inventories.
 
In Search of Fairminded Jurists Top
On occasion, courts must engage in the strange task of determining whether fellow judges have reached a decision that no reasonable judge could reach. Blog contributor Bruce Merenstein examines a recent U.S. Supreme Court case as an example.
 
Reed Smith Picks Up Senate Finance Committee Chief Counsel Top
Reed Smith has added the former chief minority counsel for the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs to its Washington, D.C., office.
 
"I'll Call In." Minding the Mute Button on Conference Calls Top
This is the first post from our newest blog contributor, who goes by the moniker of Barely Legal. BL will offer humorous musings on what it's really like to work for a law firm. Today's topic: You'll never join a conference call again without wondering ...
 
The Legal Is on Twitter, and You Should Be Too Top
In the interest of trying to connect more with our audience by sharing information about breaking news and her own projects, Magazines & Supplements Editor Jaime Bochet is now tweeting as @JaimeBochetTLI. Follow her and @TheLegalIntell on Twitter!
 
Recent Bad Faith Ruling Draws Attention Top
Blog contributor Charles Haddick examines a Western District ruling that is garnering plenty of attention: an insurance case where the judge found bad faith in the handling of the UM/UIM claim.
 
PA Supreme Court Requires Litigants to Raise Futile Arguments Top
Blog contributor Bruce Merenstein examines a recent Supreme Court case that clarified that a litigant must raise the futile argument in the trial court in order to preserve it for later review.
 
Court Announces Hearsay Rule Change Top
The state Supreme Court has approved the use of hearsay evidence during some preliminary hearings and announced the release of the state's first benchbook on witness intimidation.
 
Non-Verbal Cues: Beware the Smiling Juror Top
Jury analyst and blog contribitor Melissa M. Gomez advises caution when trying to read jurors' body language.
 
9th Circuit: FDA Regulations Do Not Pre-empt State Failure to Warn Claims Top
Blog contributor Adrianne Walvoord analyzes the 9th Circuit's Jan. 24 opinion finding that a generic drug manufacturer?s duty to warn under state law was not pre-empted by federal law.
 
When Supreme Courts Collide Top
Blog contributor Joshua D. Wolson looks at a recent decision from the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia regarding issues in international contractual arbitration.
 
Can Employees Disparage Employers on Facebook? Top
Blog contributor Eric B. Meyer looks at case that "is unique because it underscores the importance of understanding context when implementing and enforcing a social media policy."
 
3rd Circuit: Subcontractor Cannot Recover on Unjust Enrichment Claim Against School District Top
Blog contributor Wendy Beetlestone examines a case in wich the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals was asked to address whether a subcontractor could recover on a claim of unjust enrichment against a school district.
 
In Avandia Case, Motion Hearing Delayed as Attorneys Huddle With Judge Top
Global settlement talks just might be underway in the massive federal multi-district litigation of thousands of products liability suits filed by diabetics who took the drug Avandia, but for now the lawyers are saying nothing.
 
Are Old Judges Bad or Do Bad Judges Just Get Old? Top
There has been some interest of late in debating whether older judges, especially those seniors that have passed age 80, are bad judges. Blog contributor Tony Volpe explains why you might want to reconsider that notion.
 
Process to Replace FJD Court Administrator Is in Place Top
With First Judicial District Court Administrator Dave Lawrence retiring Feb. 18, a committee of the FJD's president judges and a member of the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts will interview candidates to replace Lawrence.
 
Phila. Mass Torts Program Launches New Website Top
In an effort to improve communication with the mass torts bar, Philadelphia Common Pleas Court's mass tort program, the Complex Litigation Center, recently launched a new website, according to Stanley Thompson, director of the CLC.
 
Estate Planning for Pets Top
The care of our pets after we are gone is a matter of concern for many people, but there steps that can be taken to arrange for the needed care. Blog contributor Robert H. Louis explores the options.
 
To LSAT or Not to LSAT: That Is the Question Top
There?s been a bit of a ruckus raised lately over the possibility of a world without the LSAT.
 
Ballard Spahr Adds Three IP Attorneys in Phoenix Top
The firm said it added partners Brian W. LaCorte and Donna H. Catalfio, along with associate Andrea L. Stone. The three joined Ballard Spahr from Phoenix-based Gallagher & Kennedy.
 
The ABCs of Business Valuation Certifications for the Courtroom Top
Contributor Terry Silver of Citrin Cooperman reviews different certifications for business valuation specialists, and discusses which is best for your situation.
 
Former Gov. Schweiker to Consult for Stradley Ronon's Gov't. Affairs Practice Top
As Stradley Ronon Stevens & Young Chairman William R. Sasso readies to help usher in Gov.-elect Tom Corbett Tuesday as part of the transition team, his law firm welcomes a former Pennsylvania governor to its ranks.
 
PBA's Constitutional Review Commission Changes Hearings Schedule Top
The Pennsylvania Bar Association's Constitutional Review Commission has made several changes to its public hearings schedule, cancelling four events and rescheduling another two.
 
Appellate Procedures Blog Introduction - Part 1 Top
New blog contributor Mandi L. Scott of Goehring Rutter & Boehm introduces her appellate blog, with an emphasis on procedure. To start the blog, she is focusing on an issue concerning the proper start of an appeal in the federal courts.
 
Corbett Taps Krancer for DEP Head Top
Governor-elect Thomas W. Corbett has selected Environmental Hearing Board Judge Michael Krancer as the new secretary of environmental protection.
 
Fox News Bias Suit Stayed to Await Ruling on 'Cat's Paw' Theory Top
The scheduled Jan. 18 trial of a race discrimination suit against the Philadelphia affiliate of Fox News has been canceled now that a federal judge has stayed the case to await a ruling from the U.S. Supreme Court.
 
Making CLE Work for You Top
Blog contributor Laura Gleason encourages readers to think about ways your CLE experience could be modified to better support you in your practice.
 
Montco Starts Juror Donation Program Top
Taking a cue from other jurisdictions, Montgomery Common Pleas Court has started a program that enables jurors to donate their fees to charity.
 
Montco Attorney Announces Commissioner Bid Top
Montgomery County attorney Catherine M. "Kate" Harper announced today that she will run as a Republican candidate for Montgomery County Commissioner. All three commissioner slots are up for election this year.
 
Pittsburgh Firm Leaders: Get Firm Management Advice with a Side of Breakfast Top
Calling all Pittsburgh-area firm managing partners and executive committee members! What are the big questions you have about the coming year? The Legal Intelligencer and the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette invite you to hear the answers to those questions and more at our first annual Pittsburgh-area Managing Partners Breakfast, being held Tuesday, Jan. 25.
 
The Legal's "Top 10 Lateral Hires of 2010" Top
The Legal's editorial staff has decided which Pennsylvania attorneys or groups of attorneys to name as our "Top 10 Lateral Hires of 2010."
 
Social Media and the Practice of Law in 2011 Top
Blog contributor Gina F. Rubel offers her suggestions on why it is important for law firms to understand how to harness the power of social media for networking, business development, public relations and marketing while still understanding the ethical and legal implications.
 
DGS: Family Court Construction Contractors Will Be Selected Next Week Top
In the waning days of Gov. Edward G. Rendell's administration, the state Department of General Services is expecting to announce the selection of the construction contractors to build the Philadelphia family courthouse next week, a spokesman reported today.
 
Stradley Ronon Chairman Re-Elected to New Three-Year Term Top
Stradley Ronon Stevens & Young Chairman William R. Sasso has been re-elected to another three-year term as chairman of the firm?s board of directors. He has held the position since 1994.
 
How to Be Productive During the Holiday Season - Part III Top
Yes, there are ways to be more productive during this time of year! Contributor Neen James offers her suggestions, in the third and final post on this topic.
 
Deadline for Family Courthouse Bids Passes; DGS Won't Disclose Number of Bidders Top
With the deadlines for construction bids on the Philadelphia family courthouse passing, the state Department of General Services on Wednesday declined to disclose the number of bidders for construction contracts for general contractor, HVAC, plumbing and electrical construction work on the courthouse site at 15th and Arch streets.
 
Cozen O'Connor Adds Former Energy Sector GC Top
Cozen O'Connor has added to its Denver office a former general counsel and Am Law 100 partner with ties to the energy sector. David Zerhusen will be resident in both the firm?s Denver and Washington, D.C., offices where he will bring both a litigation and corporate background.
 
How to Be Productive During the Holiday Season - Part II Top
Yes, there are ways to be more productive during this time of year! Contributor Neen James offers her suggestions, in the second of three posts on this topic.
 
Does the Burden of Proof Apply Only to Plaintiffs? Top
Contributor Melissa M. Gomez explores the use of alternative defense theories before juries that seem to understand well who holds the burden on proof.
 
New Tax Law Calls for Extensive Work in Estate Planning Top
Contributor Robert Louis examines the tax bill just passed by Congress. It makes fundamental changes in the laws applicable to planning to minimize federal taxation at death. And it does so in a bill that has those changes expiring in two years.
 
Judicial Hellhole, or Much Ado About Nothing? Top
According to The BLT: The Blog of Legal Times, a website affiliated with the Legal: ?Philadelphia is ranked No. 1 in annual survey of ?judicial hellholes? that?s set to be released on Tuesday by the American Tort Reform Association.
 
How to Be Productive During the Holiday Season Top
We place high expectations on ourselves and others during the holiday season; however, there are ways to be more productive during this holiday season. Contributor Neen James offers her suggestions, in the first of three posts on this topic.
 
Women Lawyers Attribute Success to Ambition Top
Gina Rubel attended a Philadelphia Bar Association Women in the Profession meeting where a panel discussed a reccurring theme of ?ambition? and how it plays into moving up and success within a law firm.
 
Blank Rome Communications Officer to Leave Next Year Top
Topper Ray, Blank Rome's chief communications officer and a principal in its government relations subsidiary, is leaving the firm by the end of the year for an outside agency.
 
Law Increases Monetary Venue of Magisterial District Judges Top
Gov. Edward G. Rendell signed into law Nov. 23 an increase of venue over monetary disputes for magisterial district judges.
 
Montco Courts Seek Waiver of Budget Cuts Top
After Montgomery County introduced a budget this week planning for a flat 5 percent cut for every county department, the county's common pleas court, district justices, drug court and correctional facility, among other justice agencies, sought waivers from the cut.
 
Get Firm Management Advice with a Side of Breakfast Top
Calling all firm managing partners and executive committee members! What are the big questions you have about the coming year? The Legal Intelligencer invites you to hear the answers to those questions and more at our annual Managing Partners Breakfast, being held on Tuesday, Dec. 7, from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at Morton's Steakhouse in Philadelphia.
 
Corbett Calls on Lawyers to Help With Transition Teams Top
The names of several prominent attorneys can be found throughout the list issued yesterday of more than 400 volunteers for Governor-elect Tom Corbett?s transition team.
 
Philadelphia's Female Chancellors Offer Advice to Fellow Women Top
?You can be a leader wherever you are,? said Jane Leslie Dalton, partner at Duane Morris and former chancellor of the Philadelphia Bar Association, to a packed room of female attorneys yesterday. ?But nothing happens without obstacles.?
 
What to Look For in an Expert Witness Top
In Terry Silver's 25 years' experience as an expert witness, he says, "I have come to recognize which skills serve me best in the courtroom. It has been an evolutionary process as I fine-tuned my own professional skills. I?d like to share what I believe are the most common characteristics found in successful expert witnesses."
 
The Tale of Two Drug Trials: Paxil and Fosamax Top
In November, two trials involving claims again pharmaceutical drug giants created the perfect backdrop for our state versus federal court dichotomy. The outcomes, unfortunately, didn?t help to bolster our cause ?
 
Rendell Signs Bill Shrinking Chesco's Bench Top
Gov. Edward G. Rendell signed into law Wednesday a bill that reduces the full complement of Chester County's common pleas bench from 14 judges to 13 judges until 2014.
 
Gillison: Family Court Ordinances Expected to Pass Top
Everett Gillison, Philadelphia deputy mayor for public safety, said today that he expects City Council to pass two "technical ordinances" that would allow the city of Philadelphia to support a new Philadelphia family courthouse at 15th and Arch streets in Center City.
 
Barrick v. Holy Spirit Hospital Withdrawn Top
Good news. On Nov. 19, the Pennsylvania Superior Court granted a petition for en banc re-argument in Barrick v. Holy Spirit Hospital, and the original opinion in this case has also been withdrawn.
 
UPDATED: Philly's Mortgage Foreclosure Program Goes to the White House Top
A Philadelphia judge and law clerk are participating today in a White House event on access to justice, describing Philadelphia's efforts to improve outcomes for litigants in mortgage foreclosure cases.
 
Philadelphia Prison System, Following National Trend, Seeing Reduced Inmate Population: Report Top
Just as the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics reported the first drop in decades of average daily jail populations in large jurisdictions, the Philadelphia Prison System saw its number of inmates fall to about 8,000 from a peak of 9,787 inmates in January 2009, according to a report issued today by the Pew Charitable Trusts' Philadelphia Research Initiative.
 
Law Schools: What to Do About That Third Year?? Top
In their most recent article, the Editorial Board of YL, the Legal?s special online section for young lawyers, addressed a topic that has a lot of people talking these days: law school reform.
 
Do Jury Issues Concern Transactional Attorneys? Top
Jury consultant Melissa Gomez argues that the fact of the matter is that in commercial cases, jury issues begin with transactional folks.
 
Phila. Judge Upholds Two Defense HRT Verdicts Top
A Philadelphia judge has denied the efforts of two plaintiffs to overturn defense verdicts issued in favor of drugmaker Wyeth. In each of the cases, plaintiffs alleged that cases of invasive breast cancer were caused by taking Wyeth's hormone replacement therapy drug Prempro.
 
Phila. Bar Chancellor Race Drops Down to One Top
The race for chancellor of the Philadelphia Bar Association is no longer contested. Albert S. Dandridge III of Schnader Harrison Segal & Lewis has withdrawn his candidacy to serve as the vice chancellor in 2011, chancellor-elect in 2012 and chancellor in 2013, the bar association announced today.
 
Is It Really So Wrong to NOT Want to Make Partner? Top
The Legal recently published two articles that address alternative career paths for associates in large law firms that led me to wonder about the pros and cons of non-partnership tracks.
 
Lawyers Need to Respond to ABA Re: Social Media Marketing by Dec. 15 Top
As a lawyer, social media enthusiast and legal marketer, I believe it is important for lawyers to share their experiences, insights and opinions as they relate to the American Bar Association?s (ABA) call for comments regarding ?lawyers? use of technology, including issues arising from Internet-based client development tools.? To read the entire request, click here.
 
Judge Asks Appeals Court to Uphold $7 Mil. Asbestos Verdict Against No-Show Defendant Top
Philadelphia Common Pleas Court Senior Judge Sheldon C. Jelin, writing in a Sept. 30 opinion explaining his reasoning to the appellate court, said that Melrath Supply and Gasket Co. and Melrath Gasket Inc., of Philadelphia, did not defend themselves in a bench trial in Russell v. A.W. Chesterton Co.
 
Reporter's Notebook: Zoned Courts Begin at Philadelphia's Criminal Justice Center Top
Philadelphia's criminal courts undertook a historic change today to centralize all of the city's preliminary hearings at the Criminal Justice Center in Center City and align the courtrooms with the city's six detective divisions in a zoned court model.
 
Castille: New Judges Will Get Paid by Court Top
When six jurists were appointed earlier this month despite a moratorium on filling judicial vacancies, Pennsylvania Chief Justice Ronald D. Castille floated the idea of telling the newly confirmed appointees that the judicial branch can't afford to pay their salaries and benefits. However, Castille announced in a news release today that the six new judges must be paid under the state constitution, and the court will have to absorb the costs.
 
Villanova Law Has New Dean Top
Villanova University has announced that John Yukio Gotanda, J.D., has been named the sixth Dean of Villanova School of Law.
 
Federal Pre-emption -- Seventh and Tenth Amendments Be Damned Top
Pre-emption is an arcane legal term that has been enjoying more press time than one might expect. And, once again, as the U.S. Supreme Court starts its 2010-11 term, pre-emption is a hot issue -- but is it a concept supported by liberals and despised by conservatives -- or should it be hated by both sides?
 
City Controller: Court's Overtime Jumps by 690 Percent Top
The First Judicial District's overtime jumped from almost $13,000 in the first quarter of the last fiscal year to more than $102,000 this fiscal year, according to a monthly economic report released today by Philadelphia City Controller Alan Butkovitz.
 
Consistency Is Critical Top
Near the completion of a trial involving a contract dispute, I was working on closing arguments with the lead attorney. We were the plaintiff, the larger organization in the case. The defendants were a smaller company and its president. At one point during our work on the closing, my client asked me the following question: ?What do you think is the biggest strength of our case?? I thought for a moment, looked up and said one word: ?Consistency.?
 
Former Navy Counsel Joins Cohen Seglias' Federal Contracting Group Top
Robert E. Little Jr., former senior associate counsel with the Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC), has joined Cohen Seglias Pallas Greenhall & Furman's Philadelphia office as a partner in its federal contracting group, the firm said Thursday.
 
Celebrating Pro Bono Efforts in Philadelphia and Beyond Top
In Philadelphia, the Delivery of Legal Services Committee of the Philadelphia Bar Association's Public Interest Section invites members of the Philadelphia legal community to participate in a range of pro bono recruitment events, legal clinics for low-income clients and continuing legal education programs from October 18-29 in honor of National Pro Bono Week.
 
K&L Gates Starts Task Force to Deal With Foreclosure Saga Top
K&L Gates is looking to help its mortgage and banking clients that are under the intense spotlight as they navigate potential lawsuits, hearings and foreclosure moratoriums.
 
Bucks County Judge-to-be Sees Lag in Domestic Cases Top
As James M. McMaster of Bensalem winds down his practice in the next month before taking the oath of office to become a Bucks County Common Pleas judge sometime next month, he said that the court needs more judicial resources invested on the domestic relations side.
 
Public Policy Reason to Protect Disclosure of Reserve Information Top
There is a sound public policy rationale to protect disclosure of reserve information in discovery. This idea was brought to my attention by attorney Bryon Kaster of our Insurance Litigation / Bad Faith Discovery unit in Harrisburg.
 
Another Court Hearing Set Over Phila. Family Courthouse Top
A hearing has been scheduled next week in front of U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Eric Frank for the judge to consider whether the private developer who mortgaged the air and surface rights to the proposed Philadelphia family courthouse site can get more time to file a bankruptcy reorganization plan.
 
Phila. Criminal Case Clerk Now Formally Part of FJD Top
At 10:44 a.m. today, the centuries-old Philadelphia Clerk of Quarter Sessions ceased to be an independently elected office as Mayor Michael A. Nutter signed legislation that officially merged the clerk into the First Judicial District.
 
Law Firm Confidential: What Do You Wish Your Colleagues Knew? Top
Earlier this month, the Legal published an article titled, "What Do Attorneys Wish Their Paralegals Knew?" But why stop there? We'd like to open this up to other positions with a law firm. What do attorneys wish their associates knew? What about your managing partners? And by the way, paralegals, what do you wish your attorneys knew?
 
Family Court Developments: Money and Mediation Top
As settlement talks continue over the stymied Philadelphia family courthouse project, the campaigns for the two men running to be Pennsylvania's governor both refused to state this week whether they would follow in Gov. Edward G. Rendell's footsteps and release $200 million in capital funds to build the courthouse.
 
Meet the Legal Blawgers: #Blawger Hashtag Allows Attendees to Share Thoughts in Real Time on Twitter Top
I recently had the pleasure to moderate a media panel, "Meet the Legal Blawgers: An Insiders' Perspective on Connecting with the Legal Blogosphere" presented by the Bar-News Media Committee of the Philadelphia Bar Association, which I chair.
 
Coordinating the Efforts of the Forensic Accountant and the Attorney Top
Accountants who provide litigation consulting services such as forensic accounting, economic damage analysis and business valuation must develop a mutual understanding with counsel regarding the goals and objectives of the case, the scope of the assignment and the methodologies to be employed.
 
Rendell Sees Improvement in Med Mal Climate Top
With 21 more insurers writing medical malpractice insurance coverage, Medical Care Availability and Reduction of Error fund payouts dropping dramatically over the last seven years and other promising indicators, the medical malpractice problems in Pennsylvania have been stemmed, Gov. Edward G. Rendell said today in a conference call.
 
Outside Counsel Training In-House Lawyers on Providing Pro Bono Top
It's not always easy for in-house counsel to provide pro bono services, but a program put on by a Philadelphia public interest group is allowing them to do just that. Philadelphia LawWorks' Corporate Pro Bono Day gives in-house counsel the opportunity to not only provide much-needed pro bono advice, but also to earn CLE credits.
 
Sharif Street Joins Zarwin Baum Top
Philadelphia-based Zarwin Baum DeVito Kaplan Schaer & Toddy has added Sharif Street to its transactional practice group. Street, the son of former Philadelphia Mayor John Street, was an associate at Wolf Block until its implosion in March 2009.
 
Akin Gump, Orrick Call Off Merger Talks Top
After a brief overture, Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld and Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe have called off their merger discussions.
 
Discovery of Insurance Reserve Information in Bad Faith Litigation Top
It is very common in bad faith litigation for the aggrieved insured to seek discovery of the reserve history in order to track the amount reserved by the defendant insurer in the underlying case.
 
Superior Court Remands Bridgeport Fire Case Over Recusal Top
The state Superior Court has remanded the Bridgeport fire class action case for a trial judge to consider a recusal motion and to reconsider the fees paid to the claims administrator. The decision is only one part of many aspects of the In Re: Bridgeport Fire Litigation case that have been appealed to the state Superior Court.
 
Wolf Block Sued by Litigation Support Services Provider Top
Wolf Block has been sued by a company it hired in March 2007 to help with on-site litigation support services. This is the second suit by an outside vendor lodged against the law firm since it voted to dissolve in March 2009.
 
Klehr Harrison Picks Up Dechert Corporate Partner Top
Klehr Harrison Harvey Branzburg has picked up a Dechert corporate and securities partner in Philadelphia. Lisa Burnett moved to the firm after 13 years at Dechert ? serving the last few as a partner. Burnett has represented private equity clients in middle market deals and has handled general mergers and acquisitions work for public and private companies.
 
City Council Authorizes Criminal Justice Hearings Top
The Philadelphia City Council is the latest governmental entity to take its own look at Philadelphia's criminal justice system, which has come under scrutiny for problems such as witness intimidation.
 
What Should I Wear? Tips on Dressing for the Courtroom Top
"What should I wear?" Melissa Gomez has been asked this question more than a few times in my career, and she does have some basic thoughts on the idea of image in the courtroom. These thoughts apply to anyone in the courtroom ? attorneys, clients and witnesses alike.
 
Superior Court: Insurer's Reasonable Reliance on UIPA Regs Cannot Support Bad Faith Claim as Matter of Law Top
On May 24, in Jones v. Nationwide, a panel of the Pennsylvania Superior Court unanimously affirmed preliminary objections granting a demurrer in favor of Nationwide Property and Casualty Insurance Co., dismissing a class action complaint against them, which, in part, claimed that Nationwide committed bad faith by prorating deductible reimbursements under its auto policies.
 
GCs Well-Compensated, But Are They Satisfied? Top
The most recent issue of "GC Mid-Atlantic" magazine featured a special section on GC compensation. So now that we've pored over their paychecks, it's only natural that we address the next natural question: "Are GCs satisfied?" To put an even finer point on it, "How satisfied are they with their outside counsel?"
 
Reporter's Notebook: Hot Industries for M&A Top
Just as with the hot topics in legislation these days, the hot industries seeing M&A activity are the life sciences/health care and financial services sectors.
 
Judge Rules Against Expediting Family Courthouse Bankruptcy Case Top
A federal bankruptcy judge has ruled against settling the dispute over the property rights to the stymied Philadelphia family courthouse project with a mandatory preliminary injunction.
 
Court Stays Bad Faith Claim, Picks Up Breach of Insurance Contract Claims First Top
On Aug. 2nd Judge Albert Masland of the Cumberland County Court of Common Pleas in ECSM Utility Contractors, Inc. v. Selective Insurance Group, Inc., et. al. granted in part the defendant?s motion to bifurcate and stay the plaintiff's bad faith claims in a combined coverage and bad faith case.
 
Social Media For Lawyers: Location-Based Networking Top
So by now, if you have read my previous blog posts on this website, you know that I am a fan of strategic and systematic social media engagement for lawyers as long as it has integrity and boundaries.
 
City Controller Audit Finds Board of Ethics' Lack of Minutes, Lack of Funding Top
City Controller Alan Butkovitz said that an audit of the Philadelphia Board of Ethics for the 2008-09 fiscal year found that the board does not have a record of holding public sessions on hiring and setting salaries for executive staff.
 
Do Jurors Understand the Burden of Proof? Top
I recently spoke at a seminar for public defenders about jury selection. One of the attendees made a comment during the presentation that she believed jurors don?t understand what ?beyond a reasonable doubt? means. She said she held this belief because she can?t understand why jurors send her clients to jail after hours of deliberating. If they have to deliberate that long, then they must have doubt.
 
Northwest Argues Against Judge's Authority to Expedite Family Courthouse Decision Top
Northwest 15th Street Associates, the private developer at the center of the stymied Philadelphia family courthouse project, told a federal bankruptcy judge in a court filing Monday evening that centuries of U.S. property law, as well as its constitutional rights to not be deprived of its property without due process of law, would be violated if the judge issues an interim order that would transfer title to the air rights at the proposed courthouse site.
 
What Is the Key to Improving Associate Satisfaction? Top
The AmLaw Daily has an excerpt of a column written by Steven Harper that addresses the seemingly answer-less question of how firms can improve associate satisfaction. Harper, an adjunct professor at Northwestern University and former partner with Kirkland & Ellis, points out that what satisfies associates and what the firms value are very much at odds.
 
Blank Rome Re-Elects Chairman, Managing Partner Top
Blank Rome has elected Alan J. Hoffman to serve as chairman and Carl M. Buchholz to serve as managing partner and chief executive officer, both for three-year terms, effective Jan. 1, 2012. This is an extension of Buchholz?s current position, and the movement of Hoffman as co-chairman to the sole chairman of the firm.
 
Ballard Spahr Grows in Washington With Focus on Financial Reform Top
Ballard Spahr has expanded its consumer financial services group in a key market for the practice with the addition of a former Federal Trade Commission and bank attorney.
 
Parking Authority Argues for Mandatory Injunction Over Family Courthouse Site Top
The Philadelphia Parking Authority told a federal bankruptcy judge in a court filing today that the judge has the equitable power to settle definitively, with a mandatory preliminary injunction, whether the once-proposed developer of the stymied Philadelphia family courthouse project defaulted on its mortgage.
 
Mediator Appointed in Family Court Bankruptcy Case Top
The chief judge of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania has been assigned to mediate the lawsuit between the Philadelphia Parking Authority and private developer Donald W. Pulver's Northwest 15th Street Associates over the ownership of the air rights at the proposed Philadelphia family courthouse site, according to an order issued today by Judge Eric L. Frank.
 
Should You Monitor Employee Use of Social Media? Top
Sharlyn Lauby, an HR pro turned consultant with more than 20 years of professional human resources experience, posted a wonderful article, "How to Handle an Employee's Controversial Online Comment."
 
Bankruptcy Judge Lifts Stay Over Family Court Architectural Plans Top
In a bankruptcy proceeding over the the use of architectural plans for a new Philadelphia family courthouse, Bankruptcy Judge Eric L. Frank ruled late Thursday afternoon that architect EwingCole, not private developer Northwest 15th Street Associates, owns the plans under a contract between EwingCole and Northwest 15th Street Associates
 
Is UK Firm's Part-Time Partner Policy Really the Answer? Top
Chief blogger Vivia Chen posted yesterday the news that a British firm, Allen & Overy, has implemented a new part-time equity partner policy, which it says is specifically designed to appeal to women. It's their answer to the "Can you have it all?" question so many of today's female lawyers are facing.
 
U.S. THIRD CIRCUIT: The Pitfalls of Using Information from Income Tax Returns as an Investigative Tool in Forensic Accounting Top
In my July 23 blog, I discussed the benefits of utilizing information from income tax returns as an investigative tool in forensic accounting.
 
Blog Buddies: GC and Outside Counsel Co-Author ACC Blog Top
According to an article posted today on Corporate Counsel magazine's website, a strange waltz is taking place on the Interwebs: a GC and his new outside counsel are blogging about their burgeoning relationship.
 
Social Media for Lawyers: Legal Updates on LinkedIn Expands JD Supra Reach Top
A few weeks ago, the social networking site LinkedIn and legal content distributor JD Supra announced a new partnership that helps legal professionals to increase marketing exposure.
 
THE LEGAL INTELLIGENCER BLOG: Where Are All the Women- and Minority-Owned Firms? Top
Every year, The Legal Intelligencer publishes a magazine called "PALaw: Annual Report on the Legal Profession," which provides hard data and analysis on PA's legal landscape, including our Managing Partners Survey, and the 100 Largest Law Firms in PA
 
Hickton Takes Office as Western Pa. U.S. Attorney, Former Firm Changes Name Top
David J. Hickton, one of the five founding members of Pittsburgh-based litigation, transportation and business law firm Burns White & Hickton, was formally sworn in Aug. 12 as the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania, one week after securing confirmation to the post on Aug. 5.
 
This is Progress? Low Percentage of Fortune 500 Female GCs Is Up Slightly Top
It is not news to anyone that finding a female attorney in the corner office of a law firm is still a very rare occurrence.
 
Family Court Facility Developer Objects to Lifting of Bankruptcy Stay Top
Northwest 15th Street Associates, the original developer of the proposed site for the new Family Court facility, filed an objection Friday to the First Judicial District's request to lift the automatic stay in the bankruptcy case.
 
Change of DGS Guard Won't Affect Family Court Project Top
Despite the announcement today that state Department of General Services Secretary James P. Creedon will step down Sept. 3, a DGS spokesman said that the Philadelphia family court project will not be affected.
 
Will Your Trades Secrets Be Safe if You Lose a Member of Your Senior Team? Top
Chris Botticella used to work for Bimbo Bakeries USA, the Pennsylvania-based maker of Thomas' English Muffins, among other products.
 
Death-Row Murderer Disbarred 9 Years After Conviction Top
Convicted murderer Richard Baumhammers' death warrant was signed before his disbarment order was.
 
New Judge in Northwest 15th Street Associates Bankruptcy Top
A new judge has been assigned to oversee the bankruptcy proceedings of Northwest 15th Street Associates, the original developer of the family court building site at 15th and Arch streets.
 
IN-HOUSE COUNSEL: Reporters' Notebook: Family Court Top
Perception is reality for parties involved in the troubled project to build a new family court facility in Philadelphia. Opposing sides have each pointed to the same e-mail or letter regarding the development process as proof of their individual arguments.
 
Joining With the Visceral Response Top
I was working with the plaintiff on a motorcycle accident death case. While the defendant's liability was pretty clear, we had a problem. The decedent's blood alcohol level was beyond the legal limit. My client, needless to say, was concerned. How could he get jurors to disregard or not focus on the blood alcohol level when telling the story of what happened? My answer: "You can't."
 
U.S. DISTRICT COURT: Is Work the Key to Being a Better 'Professional' Mom? Top
Law blog The Careerist, which is affiliated with The Legal, posted an article this morning on a topic that is sure to set tongues wagging around law firm water coolers across the country. Chief blogger Vivia Chen "outs" lawyer-moms who would actually rather be working than staying home with their children full-time.
 
Architect Joins FJD's Request to Move Family Court Project Ahead Top
Architect EwingCole has joined the First Judicial District's motion to have a federal bankruptcy judge lift an automatic stay in the bankruptcy filing by private developer Donald W. Pulver's Northwest 15th Street Associates and allow Philadelphia's stymied family courthouse project to move ahead.
 
Using Information from Income Tax Returns as an Investigative Tool in Forensic Accounting Top
The term "forensic" means "suitable for use in a court of law." By extension, the field of forensic accounting involves the utilization of accounting, auditing and investigative skills to assist in the resolution of a legal dispute.
 
N.J. SUPREME COURT: What's the Story on Summer Programs? Top
The results of The American Lawyer's Summer Hiring Survey came out earlier this week, and as everyone probably expected, the results showed a grim landscape for law students looking for work.
 
Tips for Lawyers From Legal Marketing Experts Part 5 Top
Back in March of this year, I started a series of postings from the Legal Marketing Association's national conference.
 
Law Department Cuts Over $700,000 in Outside Counsel Fees Top
With continuing weakness in property and business tax collections, the city of Philadelphia is making more cuts in order to balance its five-year budget, including cutting more than $700,000 in the Law Department's expenditures on outside counsel, according to Stephen Agostini, Mayor Michael A. Nutter's budget director.
 
You've heard of the FBI's National Sex Offender Registry. How about the National Sexual Harassment Registry? Top
EBossWatch, a group claiming to help people avoid hostile work environments and workplace bullying, launched what it calls the "National Sexual Harassment Registry," on July 14.
 
Forensic Accounting and the Art of Courtroom Avoidance Top
As a forensic accountant, our accounting, tax and consulting firm is often charged with valuing companies, especially as a part of adversarial divorce actions.
 
How Facebook Can Make or Break Your Case Top
A federal judge has ruled that Luzerne County cannot be held liable in the kids-for-cash corruption scandal that has led to criminal charges against two of the county's ex-judges because no county officials with policymaking authority played any role in the alleged scheme.
 
Do You Contract With The Government? You May Need To Tell Your Employees That They Can Form A Union Top
As of June 21, many federal contractors and subcontractors are required to post notices educating their employees about their right to form, join and support a union and to bargain collectively with their employer.
 
Two Recent Supreme Court Decisions Provide Little Clarity for Employers Top
Last month, the U.S. Supreme Court rendered two employment law decisions. Neither provides much guidance for employers. However, there are a few takeaways.
 
Committee of Seventy Calls for Halt to Family Court Funding Top
The Committee of Seventy, Philadelphia's good government group, called today for Gov. Edward G. Rendell to stop the release of $200 million in state funds for the family court building in Philadelphia.
 
Nearly 90 Percent of Quarter Sessions Employees Agree to Transition to FJD Staff Top
As the First Judicial District continues to merge the operation of the Clerk of Quarter Sessions, the clerk for criminal cases, into its own operation, 92 employees have agreed to leave civil service employment with the city of Philadelphia to become court employees.
 
Sheriff's Office: Cutting Sheriff's Overtime May Affect Prison Population Top
In a memo sent to court leaders and obtained by The Legal, the Philadelphia Sheriff's Office said that some of its efforts to reduce its overtime bill require it to end some of the staffing patterns the office put in place to address prison overcrowding.
 
Labor Department Extends FMLA to Cover Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Parents Top
On June 22, the U.S. Department of Labor clarified the definition of "son and daughter" under the Family and Medical Leave Act to ensure that all employee-parents, regardless of legal or biological relationship, may obtain family leave for the birth or placement of a son or daughter.
 
For the First Time, City of Philadelphia Commits Dollars to Fight Witness Intimidation Top
Philadelphia District Attorney Seth Williams' request to receive an extra $400,000 for his office next fiscal year to address witness intimidation did not get very far? until now.
 
Supreme Court Decision Provides Insurers Latitude to Argue Offset in UM/UIM Arbitrations Top
The Pennsylvania Supreme Court last month ruled in Tannenbaum v. Nationwide Insurance Company that an insurer could successfully argue income loss benefits provided under both group plan and personal disability policies could be used to offset what would otherwise be recoverable income loss benefits in UM/UIM arbitrations.
 
Circuit Precedent? What Circuit Precedent? Top
Numerous procedural and jurisdictional issues that federal court practitioners confront on a daily basis have yet to be addressed by the Supreme Court.
 
Outside Counsel: Beyond a Reasonable Doubt: Be Sure the Strategies You Employ Don't Hurt Your Case Top
I recently had the pleasure of doing some pro bono work on a criminal trial that had quite a bit of exposure in the media. The case involved a police shooting on Nov. 27, 1966, and I was working with the defense.
 
Dechert Grabs Head of Fried Frank Financial Institutions Group, Two Others Top
Dechert has added three heavy hitters in Washington, D.C., from Fried Frank Harris Shriver & Jacobson's office there.
 
McCarter & English Adds Klehr Harrison Partner for Phila. Office Top
McCarter & English added Klehr Harrison Harvey Branzburg partner Richard S. Roisman to its Philadelphia office earlier this month.
 
Efforts to Merge Quarter Sessions Move Ahead Top
The First Judicial District and the city of Philadelphia are working on the details of bringing the clerks who work in the city's criminal clerk's office into judicial employment and off the city payroll by July, Philadelphia Common Pleas President Judge Pamela Pryor Dembe said.
 
City Council Mulls New Measure to Remove Clouds Over Title Deeds Top
City Councilman Bill Greenlee and Councilwoman Maria Quinones-Sanchez have introduced a proposed ordinance aimed at curbing the theft of property deeds and strengthening the requirements for the recording of deeds.
 
Outside Counsel: State Senate Authorizes Study of Philly Criminal System Top
In addition to a court-led review of Philadelphia's criminal justice system, the state Senate also has authorized a study of Philadelphia's criminal justice system.
 
Legal Tech: Statewide E-Payment System Started for Criminal Cases Top
Philadelphia's Municipal Court and Common Pleas Court are the latest to join a statewide online payment system for court collections in criminal cases.
 
OPINION: Pepper Names Replacement for Position Left Vacant by Dusty Kirk Top
Pepper Hamilton said Friday that partner Matthew J. Swett has been named co-chairman of the firm's 30-attorney real estate practice.
 
When Eight is Not Enough Top
Losing litigants in federal court have a statutory right to appeal to the appropriate court of appeals from a final decision of a trial court.
 
Health Care Law: Philadelphia Family Court Developer Still Wants to Build Courthouse Top
In the wake of the decision by the First Judicial District and the Philadelphia Parking Authority to terminate their agreements with the owner of the developer rights to the family court site at 15th and Arch streets, developer Donald W. Pulver and his corporate entity, Northwest 15th Street Associates, still want to build a courthouse that would unify the domestic relations and juvenile branches in one building.
 
City Controller Finds Filth, Possibly Asbestos in Police Districts Top
The city's police districts, including locations where preliminary hearings are held in criminal cases, are in desperate need of repair, according to a City Controller's report released Wednesday.
 
Duane Morris Goes Outside Phila. for New Corporate Dept. Head Top
For the first time in the firm's history, Duane Morris has selected a partner outside of its Philadelphia headquarters - and a relatively new partner at that - to lead one of its major practice groups.
 
The Power of One Top
One persuasive person can make all the difference.
 
FJD's Drug Treatment Court Selected as Model for Others Top
The state's first drug treatment court, Philadelphia Municipal Court's Treatment Court, has been selected by a national body as a model for other courts striving to treat defendants' substance abuse problems, according to a First Judicial District press release.
 
A Survey of Significant Bad Faith Cases From 2009 Top
As we approach the start of summer 2010 in Pennsylvania, I thought it might be interesting with that tiny big of distance to take a quick sample of significant bad faith cases from around the country decided in 2009.
 
Young Lawyer: Teaching the Practical Business Aspects of the Legal Profession Top
"Are your students using anything that you taught them?" This not-so-innocent question from a reporter set me wondering. I had no good answer for her. I had heard from time to time from a few students asking for references, and I occasionally saw a student from the year before in the halls, but I really didn't have a clue whether the 16 weeks we had spent together had any real impact on their professional lives.
 
Litigation: Effective Client Reporting: A Lawyer's Best Friend Top
Keeping your clients informed through effective reporting is the Golden Rule of malpractice risk management. Clients do not like bad results, but their willingness to live with a bad result, without suing you over it, is a product of their expectations.
 
Real Estate: Residential Lenders, Investors Face Foreclosure Difficulties in Pa. and N.J. Top
In another installment of the never-ending saga of foreclosure troubles throughout the United States, residential lenders and mortgage-backed securities investors in Pennsylvania and New Jersey are facing increasing difficulties attempting to exercise their foreclosure remedies when borrowers default.
 
Corporate Counsel: In-House, Firm Lawyers Debate Fair Fixed-Fee Arrangements Top
The difficulties facing law firms and large corporate clients in shifting from hourly billing to alternative fee arrangements were illustrated in a conversation between an in-house and firm lawyer at Thursday's meeting of the Association of Corporate Counsel's Georgia chapter, held at the law firm Sutherland.
 
From the Chief: If Pa. Supreme Court Won't Reform JCB, Then Someone Else Should Top
When the Pennsylvania Supreme Court issued its progress report on its response to reform proposals made by the Interbranch Commission on Juvenile Justice in the wake of the Luzerne County Courthouse scandal, it was pretty thin when it came to judicial ethics and the judicial conduct system.
 
Employment Law: U.S. Supreme Court Says a Complaint Is a 'Complaint' Top
According to the U.S. Supreme Court, a complaint is a "complaint" whether made orally or in writing. An opinion authored by Justice Stephen Breyer, Kasten v. Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics Corp., addressed the issue of whether the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) protects employees from retaliation for making oral complaints.
 
Intellectual Property: Forum Shopping for Patent Litigation Using the Latest Data Top
Patent infringement plaintiffs have the choice of filing a complaint under 28 U.S.C. § 1400(b) in any jurisdiction where the defendant's products are sold or being used.
 
Ethics: Ethics Forum Top
Questions and Answers on Professional Responsibility
 
Legal Profession: Defending Yourself Against Sanctions Top
As legal malpractice claims confronting our profession grow, so, too, does the threat of -- and imposition of -- sanctions.
 
Government: To Tax or Trust? Top
The debate rages on as to whether Marcellus Shale drillers should have to pay a severance fee to the government.
 
Health Care Law: Judge Won't Issue Injunction Over Trade Secrets, Noncompetes Top
Recently, the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania ruled in the matter of Wound Care Centers Inc., Diversified Clinical Services Inc. v. Catalane et al., against a motion for preliminary injunction brought against a hospital and individual physicians by a company engaged by a hospital to develop and manage a hospital-based program for the diagnosis and treatment of wound care for non-healing wounds.
 

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