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Friday, July 22, 2011

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False Marking Law Splits Federal Judges in Eastern District of Pa. Top
In a ruling that creates a split among the Eastern District of Pennsylvania federal judges, U.S. District Judge Michael M. Baylson has rejected a challenge to the constitutionality of the qui tam provision of the Patent Act's false marking statute.
 
Drinker Biddle's Giordanella Takes Helm of NAWL Top
Heather Giordanella, counsel at Drinker Biddle & Reath in Philadelphia, was sworn in last week as the 112th president of the National Association of Women Lawyers.
 
Judge Suggests DA Re-Investigate Sex Crime Case After Accuser Recants Top
In the wake of a convicted sex offender presenting an affidavit from an alleged crime victim recanting her trial testimony, a Philadelphia judge wrote in an opinion that Philadelphia prosecutors should investigate the claim that the case involves an unjust conviction of a teacher convicted of assaulting two young nursery school students.
 
Anita Hill Joins D.C. Plaintiffs Firm Top
Anita Hill announced last week that she is returning to Washington part time to take a position at the plaintiffs firm Cohen Milstein Sellers & Toll, saying she wants to merge her academic experience with the on-the-ground practice of civil rights litigation.
 
Judge Throws Out RICO Claims Against J&J Top
In a huge victory for pharmaceutical giant Johnson & Johnson, a federal judge has dismissed all claims in a massive consumer fraud and RICO suit that accused the company of trying to hide widespread manufacturing and quality control problems that led to recalls of a slew of popular over-the-counter drugs including Tylenol, Motrin, Zyrtec, Benadryl, Rolaids and Mylanta.
 
How Will New Agency Police U.S. Businesses? Top
Likening itself to a "cop on the beat," the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau last week became Washington, D.C.'s newest agency — one launched amidst an ongoing tug-of-war between proponents and detractors.
 
ABA Urges Lawyers to Focus on Planning for Disasters Top
Between the flooding of the Mississippi River, violent tornadoes throughout the South and raging wildfires in Arizona, it's been a difficult year in terms of natural disasters.
 
Fresh Ink: Inside Today's Legal - July 22 Top
Happy Friday! Start the end of the week off right with your daily round-up of stories in today's edition of The Legal Intelligencer. (Some stories may require registration or a paid subscription.)
 
Will Uncertain Client Demands Continue to Fuel Turblence in IP Marketplace? Top
We have seen an increase in the amount of movement of IP attorneys to smaller boutiques with a limited focus on certain practice areas. Blog contributor Anthony Volpe explores the questions such moves raise.
 
Fresh Ink: Inside Today's Legal - July 21 Top
Welcome to your daily round-up of stories in today's edition of The Legal Intelligencer. (Some stories may require registration or a paid subscription.)
 
Pulling the Curtain Back on Appellate Fact-Finding Top
Blog contributor Bruce P. Merenstein explores a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision that highlights the use of secondary authority cited in appellate briefs to engage in what amounts to appellate fact-finding.
 
Fresh Ink: Inside Today's Legal - July 20 Top
Can't find a paper, but want a sneek peak at the stories inside The Legal this morning? Consider this your personal delivery service. PLUS get our Delaware Law Weekly section and check out our online newsletter, the Delaware Business Court Insider, out each Wednesday!
 
Reporter's Notebook: Follow-Up to 'Preconception Torts' Article Top
Last week, reporter Zack Needles posted a blog item wondering why more attorneys weren't taking notice of a recent Superior Court decision on "preconception torts." Now he's followed up with an article gathering perspective on the issue from med mal attorneys.
 
Fresh Ink: Inside Today's Legal - July 19 Top
Can't find a paper, but want a sneek peak at the stories inside The Legal this morning? Simply read on! (PLUS get our Pennsylvania Law Weekly section, out each Tuesday!) Click the links below to access stories directly, or head to The Legal homepage. (Some stories may require registration or a paid subscription.)
 
The Trouble with Loss of Consortium Claims Top
Loss of consortium is an important claim in those cases that warrant it. Not all cases do. Blog contributor and jury consultant Melissa M. Gomez explains when it might be prudent to withdraw loss of consortium claims.
 
Fresh Ink: Inside Today's Legal - July 18 Top
Can't find a paper, but want a sneek peak at the stories inside The Legal this Monday morning? Simply read on! Click the links below to access stories directly, or head to The Legal homepage. (Some stories may require registration or a paid subscription.)
 
Reporter's Notebook: The Big Case Hardly Anyone's Talking About Top
It's been more than a week and a half since the Superior Court issued what has the potential to be a landmark case in the largely undeveloped area of "preconception torts," and reporter Zack Needles is more than a little surprised it hasn't received more attention.
 
Fresh Ink: Inside Today's Legal - July 15 Top
Can't find a copy of The Legal this morning? Here's a peek at the stories in today's paper, from the breaking news of the day to our featured columns. Check the blog every morning for the round-up.
 
New Daily Blog Feature: "Fresh Ink: Inside Today's Legal" Top
Can't get ahold of a copy of The Legal this morning? Here's a peek at the stories in today's paper. Check the blog every morning for the round-up.
 
Judge Denies Stay of Production of PHA Legal Bills to HUD Top
A federal judge in Philadelphia has denied a motion to stay the production of legal invoices from the Philadelphia Housing Authority to HUD while the PHA's former executive director appeals the order allowing the bills to be turned over.
 
I Remain, Very Sincerely Yours Top
Blog contributor Gina Rubel reminds us that PR is just as much about what you write as it is about what you say. The content and tone of e-mail messages, letters, text messages and social media messages affect the recipient and their perception of the sender.
 
PBA Hires First Diversity Officer Top
Today is the first day of work for the Pennsylvania Bar Association's first diversity officer, the PBA announced today. Janis M. Leftridge was hired to facilitate efforts to improve diversity within the bar association as well as the overallbar in Pennsylvania.
 
How to Communicate Effectively Without E-mail Top
Blog contributor and productivity guru Neen James offers creative suggestions to help your message stand out in your prospective clients' and important contacts' minds.
 
Exploring Early Settlements: A Sign of Weakness or Ethical Duty? Top
Contributor Charlotte Thomas maintains that trying to settle a case early is not a sign of weakness, but usually is the right thing to do for our clients to save money, time and the psychological commitment of litigation.
 
Don't Ask If You Don't Want the Answer Top
Editor Jaime Bochet is starting to believe that firms really don't care how their clients think they?re doing -- especially after seeing the results of a new LexisNexis survey.
 
Had A Couple of Drinks? There Should Be An App for That Top
Blog contributor Barely Legal wishes technology existed to save us from ourselves when the urge to e-mail after imbibing a few drinks inevitably kicks in.
 
Rules Regarding Records Top
Blog contributor Mandi L. Scott focuses on a few Rules of Appellate Procedure relating to the record -- both original and reproduced.
 
New York's Chief Judge Advocates for Civil Legal Aid Top
Civil legal aid for the poor is in crisis, Jonathan Lippman, chief judge of the state of New York, told the attendees of the Philadelphia Bar Association quarterly luncheon today.
 
Greene Asks Judge to Stay Order Allowing PHA Bills Turned Over Top
Former Philadelphia Housing Authority executive director Carl Greene has asked the court to stay its order allowing the PHA to turn over thousands of pages in unredacted legal bills until he can appeal the judge's decision.
 
Supreme Court Denies Emergency Stay in Family Court Construction Top
The state Supreme Court divided along partisan lines today in rejecting an emergency stay requested by a disappointed bidder so it could protest the award of the electric contract for the new Philadelphia family courthouse.
 
Senate Vote Portends Abolition of Joint and Several Liability Doctrine Top
Pennsylvania's negligence regime appears likely to change after a vote in the state Senate today.
 
Will Non-Lawyers Investing Destroy the Legal Profession? Top
The fight over allowing non-lawyers to become investors in law firms is heating up. While the debate is one over changing a tradition, there are issues of transparency. Blog contributor Anthony Volpe explores the issue.
 
Creating an Effective FCPA/UKBA Compliance Program Top
David A. Anderson of Citrin Cooperman presents Part 2 of his posts on the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and the U.K. Bribery Act. This one explains the key components of an effective compliance program.
 
Attorney: PHA Review of Legal Bills Shows No Privilege Regarding Greene Top
The Philadelphia Housing Authority has completed a review of legal bills from six law firms, concluding there was no privileged information contained in them regarding former executive director Carl Greene.
 
A Sliver of a Silver Lining for Microsoft Top
The U.S. Supreme Court's decision in Microsoft v. i4i appears, at first, to be a complete loss for Microsoft. But Joshua Wolson finds a small silver lining for Microsoft and other infringement defendants that might just keep the ruling from being a total disaster.
 
New Online-Only Story Package: 'Mega-Verdicts' Top
There is a brand-new Online-Only package on The Legal's homepage called "Mega-Verdicts: Eight Figures and Up," and those are exactly the stories you'll find included there: verdicts and settlements of $10 million and over.
 
Accepting and Adopting Digital Communication for Lawyers Top
Many lawyers still say that they don?t want to "communicate online." But according to blog contributor Gina F. Rubel, "It's not about you." It's about who you're trying to reach, where they are, and how they wish to be communicated with.
 
Report: Phila. Mortgage Foreclosure Program Helping Many Stay in Homes Top
A majority of homeowners who participated in Philadelphia's mortgage foreclosure diversion program and who struck an agreement with their lenders have been able to remain in their homes, according to an independent community development financial institution.
 
The Third Side of the Story Top
Jury consultant Melissa Gomez explains that the search for a truth that exists outside of what they are being told often leads jurors to look beyond the testimony and presentations in the courtroom.
 
It's Official: More Stringent Rules for Phila. Homicide Counsel Top
New criminal rules have been adopted for lawyers representing Philadelphia homicide defendants, according to an order today by Philadelphia Common Pleas Court President Judge Pamela Pryor Dembe.
 
Getting to Know Us: Meet Our Newest Reporters! Top
Back in April, we introduced you to the staff of The Legal, from our editor-in-chief to our copy desk editors and reporters. Since then, we?ve added a couple of new faces to the newsroom, and we?d like you to meet them!
 
Mediation: Early and Often for Cost-Effective Litigation Top
In seeking out cost-effective strategies, one universal rule holds true: the sooner the lawsuit concludes, the more likely it is to be cost-effective. Blog contributor Charlotte Thomas shares some pointers from her recent jaunt in mediation.
 
Problems With Filing Bad Faith, UM/UIM Claims as Insurer's First Notice of Suit Top
According to blog contributor Charles Haddick, when the first notice to an insurer of a UM/UIM claim is a civil complaint, which also contains a bad faith count, it is rather like a patient handing his surgeon a medical malpractice complaint on the way into the OR.
 
Rainmaking at Its Best: Focusing on Clients First Top
 
Judge Rendell Appointed to MDL Panel Top
 
Daniel McCaffery to Announce Pa. Attorney General Bid Top
 
Now Accepting Nominations for Lawyers on the Fast Track! Top
If you know an outstanding Pennsylvania attorney who is under the age of 40, nominate them to be one of The Legal's 2011 Lawyers on the Fast Track!
 
Criminal E-Filing on the FJD's Horizon Top
The First Judicial District is aiming to roll out e-filing in criminal cases for members of the criminal bar by April 2, 2012, according to an announcement today by the administrative judge of the Philadelphia Common Pleas Court trial division.
 
Ciavarella's Post-Trial Motions Denied Top
U.S. District Judge for the Middle District of Pennsylvania Edwin M. Kosik has denied former Luzerne County Judge Mark A. Ciavarella Jr.'s post-trial motions to be granted a new trial or to have his racketeering and honest services fraud convictions overturned.
 
Castille: Filing Fees Should Be Made Permanent Top
Pennsylvania Supreme Court Chief Justice Ronald D. Castille said in a statement Thursday that he agrees with an auditor's recommendation that court filing fees should be turned into a permanent funding stream for legal aid organizations.
 
McLaughlin Credits Party, Labor in Judicial Primary Win Top
Reporter Amaris Elliott-Engel chats with Maria McLaughlin, one of the 11 victors in the Democratic primary for 10 Philadelphia Common Pleas Court judges and one Philadelphia Municipal Court judge.
 
Are Your Clients at Risk Under the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act or the U.K. Bribery Act? Top
David A. Anderson of Citrin Cooperman explains why a company currently conducting or planning to conduct business in any foreign country could face a significant financial risk and a risk of prosecution of its management under either the FCPA or UKBA.
 
Court Denies Reargument Request in Board of Ethics Defamation Suit Top
The Commonwealth Court, rejecting the request of Philadelphia's ethics watchdog agency and its executive director, has refused to take a second look at its ruling that the officials may not be entitled to quasi-judicial immunity.
 
Scranton Firm Announces Merger With Phila. Nonprofit Law Boutique Top
Scranton, Pa.-based general practice firm Myers Brier & Kelly has announced a merger with three-lawyer, Philadelphia-based nonprofit law boutique Lundy & Flynn.
 
Spoliation and Legal Malpractice Top
Courts generally take a hard line with cases regarding spoliation, and summary judgment because of it is not unheard of. However, as blog contributor Anthony S. Volpe writes, the issue does not end with the disposition of these simple cases.
 
Barely Legal: Something to Talk About Top
Anonymous blogger Barely Legal surmises that the co-workers the office gossips about are usually not the ones having an indiscretion ...
 
Right Time, Wrong Place Top
Blog contributor Bruce P. Merenstein examines two recent Pennsylvania Superior Court decisions that emphasize the importance of not only filing on time, but in the right place.
 
Meehan Testimony in Discrimination Case Delayed Top
U.S. Rep. Patrick Meehan had been expected to take the witness stand this week to testify about events during his tenure as Eastern District U.S. Attorney in a discrimination lawsuit brought by Paul Mansfield, a former assistant U.S. attorney who claims he was fired in retaliation for lodging complaints of age and disability discrimination. But Meehan's appearance has now been delayed indefinitely.
 
Reporter Live-Tweeting Hearing on Fair Share Act Top
The state Senate Judiciary Committee is slated to hold another hearing on a proposal that would change Pennsylvania's liability regime, and reporter Amaris Elliott-Engel will be live-Tweeting from it beginning at 12 noon today.
 
Effect of Appeals: Supersedeas and Stays Top
In her summary of just a few of the Rules of Appellate Procedure governing the effect of the filing of an appeal, Mandi Scott finds it quickly becomes apparent that the general rule is much more complicated than many practitioners think.
 
Making a Case That Fits Your Client Top
Jury consultant Melissa Gomez explains how changing your tactics to accept your witness's personality is better for your case than trying to change who they are.
 
Eight Tips for Solid Radio Interviews Top
Regardless of the size and scope of your business, there may be a time when radio interviews come into play -- especially if you're dealing with high profile litigation. Gina Rubel offers advice on nailing those interviews.
 
Fumo Arguments Rescheduled Top
The date for oral arguments in United States v. Fumo has been rescheduled and is now set for Wednesday, May 25, at 2 p.m. before 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals Judges Julio M. Fuentes, Richard L. Nygaard and Leonard I Garth.
 
Alumni Connections Key in Associates' Business Development Arsenal Top
According to blog contributor Kimberly Alford Rice, the relationships you developed in law school are one of the keys to your success. She offers tips on cultivating those relationships.
 
3rd Circuit Remands Title VII Case for Failing to Properly Apply Burden-Shifting Framework Top
In a recent opinion that helped further flesh out how to apply the burden-shifting framework in Title VII cases, the 3rd Circuit vacated a district court's summary judgment ruling for further proceedings consistent with the guidance it had provided. Blog contributor Wendy Beetlestone examines the case.
 
Two Firms Shake Up Office Management Top
Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney and Pepper Hamilton have each announced changes in leadership at one of their non-headquarters offices.
 
Legal Representation in Orchestra Bankruptcy Becomes Somewhat Clearer Top
At a hearing Monday regarding the bankruptcy proceedings of the Philadelphia Orchestra Association, the Academy of Music and Encore Series Inc., no one objected to ESI hiring separate counsel in Archer & Greiner. But it looks like Peter Nero and the Philly Pops' objections over Dilworth Paxson's representation of the orchestra will continue.
 
Tips to Beat Summer Procrastination Top
Blog contributor Neen James offers helpful tips to help you stay focused this summer - even when you just want to get outside!
 
New Family Court Building Moves Closer to Getting Built Top
The state Department of General Services on Friday officially acquired the air rights to 15th and Arch streets, the site of a new family court building, allowing construction of the project to begin in the coming weeks.
 
Phila. Bar Rates One More 'Not Recommended' Top
The Philadelphia Bar Association?s judicial candidate ratings arm said Wednesday that Philadelphia judicial candidate Leon A. King II is rated "not recommended."
 
New Online-Only Section: Firm Openings and Closings Top
In the interest of keeping you up on the larger trends in the Pennsylvania legal landscape, we grouped those recent stories of law firm office openings and closings together into a special (FREE!) online-only package.
 
Supreme Court: Candidates in DROP Stay on Ballot Top
The state Supreme Court ruled 5-2 Friday that Philadelphia candidates involved in the controversial Deferred Retirement Option Plan may still run in this month's primary.
 
Phila. Bar Rates Four More 'Recommended' Top
The Philadelphia Bar Association?s judicial candidate ratings arm has said that Philadelphia judicial candidates Diana Anhalt, Stephen J. Negro, Stephanie M. Sawyer and Marvin L. Williams are rated ?recommended.?
 
Supreme Court Renews Press for Budget Increase Top
According to the "State of the Commonwealth's Courts" report released this week, the court will be short $47.2 million of its self-identified needs in the 2011-2012 fiscal year if it does not receive more funds from Gov. Tom Corbett and the General Assembly.
 
Memeger and 'The Legal' Team Up to Celebrate Diversity Top
In The Legal's 2011 Diversity supplement, which was published in early April, we recognized 20 individuals from across the commonwealth as Diverse Attorneys of the Year, and now, we?re gearing up to honor them in person on Tuesday, June 7, at the Crystal Tea Room in Philadelphia.
 
Do I Need to File a Post-Trial Motion? Top
A recent Pennsylvania Superior Court case illustrates just how important it is to understand when a motion for post-trial relief is required. Blog contributor Mandi L. Scott examines the issue.
 
Ballard Spahr Gets Former GC to Arizona Governor Top
Joseph Kanefield, the former general counsel to Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer, has joined Ballard Spahr's Phoenix office. He will practice in the firm's government relations, regulatory affairs and contracting group.
 
Does Current Economy Justify Law Schools' Emphasis on Business of Law? Top
There appears to be a developing chorus for law schools to provide additional training and courses directed at the "business of law," apparently driven by recent economic conditions. But blog contributor Anthony S. Volpe sees it as instilling a false sense of security in students.
 
Secondary Authority Revisited Top
Blog contributor Bruce P. Merenstein examines a recent decision in which the PA Superior Court declined to rely on an amicus brief because "the information contained in the amicus brief was not provided to the trial court for consideration."
 
Public Service Attorneys Urge Young Lawyers to Think Broadly Top
For young lawyers who think there is only one career path that leads to success, a recent Philadelphia Bar Association panel of heavy-hitters has news for you: think again.
 
Reporter Live-Tweeting Nutter's Remarks to Lawyers Top
Legal reporter Amaris Elliott-Engel will be live-Tweeting from noon to 1 p.m. today from the Philadelphis Bar Association's Chancellor's Forum, where Mayor Michael Nutter will be speaking.
 
Getting to Know Us: Meet the Reporters! Top
The Editorial Department of The Legal is relatively small, but each person plays an integral role. Just as we want to know our audience as best we can, we want you to get to know us. Today: Meet the reporters who bring the news to you each day!
 
The Lost and Found of Embezzled Law Firm Funds Top
Blog contributor and Citrin Cooperman partner Joseph S. Barbagallo offers advice on how to proceed if you suspect your firm has been the victim of embezzlement.
 
Getting to Know Us: Meet the Copy Desk! Top
Part 2 of a series: The Editorial Department of the Legal is relatively small, but each person plays an integral role. Just as we want to know our audience as best we can, we want you to get to know us. Today: Meet the editors on the copy desk!
 
Measuring a Lawyer's Use of Social Media Marketing Top
Blog contributor Gina F. Rubel offers insight on how to determine if your firm's time is well spent in social media engagement.
 
Dilworth Paxson Looks to Get Orchestra's Bankruptcy Work Top
The Academy of Music of Philadelphia Inc., the Philadelphia Orchestra Association and Encore Series Inc. have asked the court to approve Dilworth Paxson as counsel in their Chapter 11 bankruptcy filings initiated April 16.
 
Getting to Know Us: Meet The Legal Staff! Top
The Editorial Department of The Legal is relatively small, but each person plays an integral role. Just as we want to know our audience as best we can, we want you to get to know us. Today: Meet Editor-in-Chief Hank Grezlak.
 
Front Page Flashback Top
The words are on the front page of the Legal every day: "The Oldest Law Journal in the United States 1843-2011." Ever wondered what that very first issue looked like?
 
Legal Dept. of the Year Awards - Deadline Extended! Top
Nominate your clients, employers or colleagues for GC Mid-Atlantic's Legal Departments of the Year Awards, aimed at highlighting the outstanding Pennsylvania-based corporate legal departments that oftentimes go unrecognized.
 
Good Secondary Authority and Bad Secondary Authority Top
Blog contributor Bruce P. Merenstein takes a look at a recent opinion by U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia that reveals an interesting quirk in his die-hard opposition to consideration of legislative history in interpreting a statute.
 
February 2011 Bar Exam Results Are In! Top
For a new class of aspiring Pennsylvania practitioners, the wait is over! The Pennsylvania Board of Law Examiners has announced the results of the bar examination that was given on February 21 and 22.
 
Montco DA Writes Children's Book About Online Dangers Top
Montgomery County District Attorney Risa Vetri Ferman has written a children's book to help parents talk with their kids about surfing the Internet safely.
 
One Week to Submit Legal Dept. of the Year Awards Nominations! Top
Nominations for GC Mid-Atlantic's first annual Legal Departments of the Year Awards are due on Friday, April 15! The awards are aimed at highlighting the outstanding PA-based corporate legal departments that oftentimes go unrecognized.
 
The Hearsay Trojan Horse: Out-of-Court Statements Offered to Demonstrate a 'Course Of Conduct' Top
In the real world of jury trials, what does it mean to admit a statement for some other purpose than to demonstrate that the facts asserted in the statement are true? Blog contributor Bruce Merenstein examines just that in a recent Superior Court case.
 
Dechert Announces Spring Bonuses Top
Dechert appears to be the first Pennsylvania firm to announce spring bonuses -- an added bonus a number of New York-based firms have given this year on top of traditional year-end bonuses to associates and counsel.
 
Does the Same Juror Profile Apply for Every Case? Top
Jury analyst and blog contribitor Melissa M. Gomez explains why it's essential to tailor your ideal juror profile for each case.
 
Phila. Family Courthouse Project Back in Court Top
Gordon Group Electric, of Feasterville, Pa., has filed an appeal to the Commonwealth Court protesting the state Department of General Services' decision to award to another contractor the electric contract for a courthouse unifying the Philadelphia juvenile and domestic relations branches into one building.
 
Increase Impactivity in 15 Minutes a Day Top
Blog contributor Neen James explains how you only need 15 minutes for you to become super-productive!
 
Nominate a Legal Department of the Year! 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.
 
Marketing Yourself to Develop Your Practice Top
Legal marketer and blogger Kimberley Alford Rice offers some resources to help you learn to market your practice more effectivey.
 
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.
 

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