Legal Resources & News

Breaking Legal News, Guides & Counsel

Even Billy Joel Didn’t Own the Copyright to His Architectural Plans – Don’t Make This Mistake When Building Your Dream Home

Billy Joel was recently sued for copyright infringement when he terminated the contractor he hired to perform renovations to his Oyster Bay mansion and hired a new one to carry out the job instead. Although what typically comes to mind when one thinks of copyright protection is songs, books, and...

Solutions to Nonpayment Defaults for Commercial Landlords and Tenants in the Wake of COVID-19

Whether you are a commercial landlord or tenant, COVID-19 has likely impacted your business. And in many cases here in Michigan it has specifically impacted the ability of tenants to pay rent while unable to operate their businesses. As such, many commercial landlords and tenants are left...

Good News for Real Estate Closings During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Executive Order Temporarily Permits Electronic Notarization

On April 8, 2020, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed Executive Order 2020-41 (the “Order”), which temporarily relaxes strict compliance with various state electronic transaction acts. According to the Governor, “[I]t is reasonable and necessary to provide limited and temporary relief from certain...

COVID-19 and Nonprofits: How to Operate Virtually

The Governor’s Stay at Home Order is now extended through April 30. Many nonprofit organizations will, at a minimum, need to conduct essential functions and board business during this time. How can this task be accomplished? Fortunately, Michigan nonprofit law provides options. Remote Meetings:...

Managing Cash-Flow during the COVID-19 Crisis for Compliance with the Michigan Builders’ Trust Fund Act

The Great Recession is still fresh in many people’s minds. Those involved in the construction industry certainly recall how those economic problems resulted in tightening cash-flow and the demise of contractors such as Lamar Construction. The present crisis is causing similar concerns. When those...