Author Info for Offit Kurman

Mohammad Ali Syed

Trump’s $5 Million “Gold Card” Visa: What it Means for EB-5 Investors

President Donald Trump recently announced a proposed “Gold Card” visa, sparking speculation about its potential impact on the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program. While details remain unclear, this proposal raises important… more

Department of Homeland Security (DHS), EB-5, Foreign Investment, Foreign Nationals, Immigration Procedures

See all updates »

Victor Balladares

Inside the Jury Box: What Voir Dire Questions in Diddy’s Case Really Reveal

In the high-profile legal drama surrounding Sean "Diddy" Combs, the public’s attention has been focused on headlines, allegations, high-profile legal teams and courtroom appearances. But behind the scenes, a critical aspect of… more

Bias, Celebrities, Defense Strategies, Entertainment Industry, Jury Selection

See all updates »

Edward Baxter

Voice Actors Clear Early Legal Hurdle in AI Cloning Suit

Voice actors received a rare, if incomplete, victory against alleged AI infringers in a recent opinion from an SDNY judge in Lehrman v. Lovo, Inc. Voice actors Paul Lehrman and Linnea Sage filed an action against AI voiceover… more

Actors, Artificial Intelligence, Breach of Contract, Copyright, Copyright Infringement

See all updates »

Russell Berger

Non-Disparagement Tips for Employers

Attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss the nuances of non-disparagement clauses in separation agreements. They explain the difference between disparagement and defamation and emphasize the importance… more

Contract Drafting, Defamation, Employment Litigation, Employment Policies, Hiring & Firing

See all updates »

George W. Bodenger

Congress Extends Telehealth Waivers

On December 20, 2024, as part of its stopgap government funding legislation (the “Continuing Resolution”), Congress issued an important extension of telehealth waivers and flexibilities currently in place for the next two years… more

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Compliance, Digital Health, Health Information Technologies, Medicaid

See all updates »

Jeffrey Bright

How Long Is Too Long? What Statutes of Repose Mean for Your Liability Exposure

How long are you on the hook for defects in a completed construction project? It’s a question that keeps many contractors and design professionals up at night—and for good reason. No project is flawless, and the duration of… more

Breach of Contract, Construction Contracts, Construction Disputes, Construction Litigation, Contract Disputes

See all updates »

Sandra Brooks

Legal and Practical Considerations Before Leaving the Marital Home During Divorce

One of the most common and emotionally charged questions people ask when facing divorce is, “Can —or should— I move out of the marital home before we have an agreement or court order?” The answer isn’t always straightforward… more

Child Custody, Divorce, Domestic Violence, Financial Obligations, Legal Advice

See all updates »

David Cahn

SBA Franchise Directory Reinstated: Key 2025 Updates for Franchisors and Franchisees

The U.S. Small Business Administration reinstated the Small Business Administration (SBA) Franchise Directory on June 1, 2025, reversing the 2023 decision to sunset the program. The Directory has long been the primary reference… more

Business Ownership, Certification Requirements, Financial Institutions, Financial Services Industry, Financing

See all updates »

William Cannon, III

Navigating ICE and Law Enforcement: A Guide for Landlords and Property Managers

As immigration enforcement efforts evolve, landlords and property managers must prepare to respond appropriately when interacting with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or other law enforcement agencies. Understanding… more

Audits, Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Immigration Enforcement, Landlords

See all updates »

Lee Carpenter

Insulate Your Marriage From Problems Online

The Greek philosopher Socrates once said, “When the debate is lost, slander becomes the tool of the loser.” He was lucky he didn’t live in the age of Facebook. Thanks to the vast social network, it has never been easier to… more

Child Custody, Confidential Information, Divorce, Facebook, Family Law Courts

See all updates »

Augustus "Augie" Curtis

Broadway Realty Ruling Highlights Narrow Scope of Collateral Surcharges

Another bankruptcy court decision shows the skepticism of courts to Chapter 11 debtors’ arguments that they can surcharge a creditor’s collateral to pay extensive administrative expenses, such as professionals’ fees. A decision… more

Bankruptcy Code, Bankruptcy Court, Chapter 11, Collateral, Commercial Bankruptcy

See all updates »

Candace Dellacona

Estate Planning for Musicians and Protecting Your Legacy Off the Stage

For musicians, estate planning is not just about deciding who inherits guitar collections or song royalties. It is about protecting your artistic legacy, ensuring your intellectual property is handled according to your wishes,… more

Business Succession, Copyright, Digital Assets, Estate Planning, Estate Tax

See all updates »

Robert Donahue

New D.C. Law on Pet Fees & Policies – What to Know for October

The newly enacted Pets in Housing Amendment Act of 2024 D.C. law will impose significant new limits on pet-related fees and restrictions for rental housing providers. For leases starting on or after October 1, 2025: You may… more

Affordable Housing, Fees, Landlords, New Legislation, Pets

See all updates »

Patrick Duffey

Non-Compete Ban for Maryland Healthcare Professionals Set to Take Effect July 1, 2025

Effective July 1, 2025, the second phase of Maryland’s restrictions on non-compete agreements and conflict of interest provisions for healthcare professionals will go into effect, targeting employers who provide direct patient… more

Employees, Employer Responsibilities, Employment Contract, Health Care Providers, Healthcare

See all updates »

Jamie Eisner

Virginia Expands Non-Compete Restrictions for Employers

Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has signed Senate Bill 1218 into law, amending the state’s non-compete statute. Effective July 1, 2025, the updated law will broaden restrictions on non-compete agreements in Virginia… more

Employee Rights, Employment Policies, Exempt-Employees, Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), New Legislation

See all updates »

Herbert Fineburg

Choosing a Trustee: Navigating the Complexities and Key Considerations

In this episode of 'Trust Us,' Danielle Friedman, Max McCauley, and Herb Fineburg discuss the critical aspects of selecting a trustee. They cover common client questions, including who should be named as a trustee, the benefits… more

Beneficiaries, Estate Planning, Fiduciary Duty, Financial Planning, Irrevocable Trusts

See all updates »

Michael Freestone

Travel Bans Are Back – Are Exemptions Possible?

Travel bans are back, with an initial list of 19 countries, and that list may be expanded to include an additional 36 nations. This latest round of travel restrictions find their basis in Presidential Proclamation 10949… more

Biden Administration, Enforcement Actions, Executive Orders, Exemptions, Foreign Nationals

See all updates »

Danielle Friedman

Choosing a Trustee: Navigating the Complexities and Key Considerations

In this episode of 'Trust Us,' Danielle Friedman, Max McCauley, and Herb Fineburg discuss the critical aspects of selecting a trustee. They cover common client questions, including who should be named as a trustee, the benefits… more

Beneficiaries, Estate Planning, Fiduciary Duty, Financial Planning, Irrevocable Trusts

See all updates »

Robin Gilden

Unexpected Tax Penalties in Talent Contracts: Could Your Motion Picture, Recording, or Sports Contract be Subject to IRC Section 409A?

Could your motion picture agreement, recording agreement, or sports contract be a non-qualified deferred compensation arrangement? You may think it unlikely, but a non-qualified deferred compensation arrangement refers to any… more

Deferred Compensation, Entertainment Industry, Section 409A, Tax Liability, Tax Penalties

See all updates »

Sarah Goodman

Sustaining LGBTQ+ Inclusivity: Legal and Workplace Strategies After Pride Month 2025

Pride Month 2025, commemorating the 1969 Stonewall Riots, celebrates the LGBTQ+ community’s contributions, but inclusivity must extend beyond June to foster workplaces where everyone feels valued. Navigating the complex legal… more

Anti-Discrimination Policies, Bostock v Clayton County Georgia, Department of Justice (DOJ), Employment Discrimination, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)

See all updates »

Gregory Grissett

Patents and the FDA: Four Critical Considerations Medical Device Companies Must Know to Successfully Introduce New Products into the Market

The intersection of patent strategy and FDA regulatory strategy is a critical consideration for medical device companies. A well-integrated approach can create powerful barriers to entry, strengthen intellectual property (IP)… more

FDA Approval, FOIA, Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Intellectual Property Protection, Investors

See all updates »

Cheryl Hepfer

Managing Conflict with Opposing Parties and Counsel in Family Law Cases

Some lawyers adopt an aggressive stance as a deliberate strategy, believing it will secure better outcomes for their clients. Others may be combative by nature. It’s important to distinguish between tactical aggressiveness and… more

Attorney's Fees, Child Custody, Client Services, Conflict Resolution, Dispute Resolution

See all updates »

Bettina Hindin

Navigating the Unique Challenges of LGBTQ Divorces in a Changing Legal Landscape

The legalization of same-sex marriage in the United States in 2015 with the landmark Obergefell v. Hodges decision marked a monumental step toward equality. However, the journey does not end with marriage; LGBTQ couples face… more

Child Custody, Discrimination, Divorce, Family Law Courts, LGBTQ

See all updates »

Austin Hinel

How Mediation and Arbitration Can Be Effective Alternatives to Traditional Litigation

Litigation can be a costly and resource-intensive endeavor, particularly when the disputes at hand are complex in nature. For clients who are new to the litigation process, it is not unusual to find the various stages and… more

Arbitration, Arbitration Agreements, Arbitrators, Contract Disputes, Dispute Resolution

See all updates »

Jennifer Jean-Gilles

Navigating ICE and Law Enforcement: A Guide for Landlords and Property Managers

As immigration enforcement efforts evolve, landlords and property managers must prepare to respond appropriately when interacting with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or other law enforcement agencies. Understanding… more

Audits, Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Immigration Enforcement, Landlords

See all updates »

David Jones

Key Trends in PAGA Arbitration Decisions: Insights for Employers and Legal Counsel

The proliferation of wage and hour litigation in California and recent significant changes to the law have created uncertainty for employers and their lawyers alike. Both recent PAGA (Private Attorneys General Act of 2004)… more

Appeals, Arbitration, Arbitration Agreements, California, Class Action

See all updates »

Michael Joseck

Maryland’s 2025 Budget Proposal: Changes to Estate Taxes and What They Mean for Estate Planning

Recent Maryland proposed budget cause for close estate planning review before the sunset of the federal Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. This week, Maryland Governor Wes Moore released his proposed 2025 budget to the public and submitted… more

Death Tax, Estate Planning, Estate Tax, Inheritance, State Taxes

See all updates »

Matthew Karmel

[Webinar] 2025 Climate Pro Bono Bootcamp - April 22nd - 23rd, 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm ET

Learn the skills you need to provide pro bono support to climate-friendly causes, communities, and startups! This unique event brings together attorneys from across the world to learn how they can engage in pro bono legal… more

Climate Change, Continuing Legal Education, Early Stage Companies, Entrepreneurs, Environmental Litigation

See all updates »

W. Drew Kastner

Voice Actors Clear Early Legal Hurdle in AI Cloning Suit

Voice actors received a rare, if incomplete, victory against alleged AI infringers in a recent opinion from an SDNY judge in Lehrman v. Lovo, Inc. Voice actors Paul Lehrman and Linnea Sage filed an action against AI voiceover… more

Actors, Artificial Intelligence, Breach of Contract, Copyright, Copyright Infringement

See all updates »

Caryn Keppler

Major Estate Tax Changes Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), signed into law on July 4, 2025, is a sweeping piece of legislation spanning nearly 1,000 pages. It includes significant changes to federal estate and income tax laws that will affect… more

Charitable Deductions, Estate Planning, Estate Tax, Generation-Skipping Transfer, Gift Tax

See all updates »

Eric Lanter

Three Things to Know About Notices to Admit in New York

In New York litigation, a well-timed notice to admit can sharpen the issues, trim trial time, and lock in key facts. But it’s a tool that must be used strategically. When used correctly, it can streamline document… more

Breach of Contract, Business Litigation, Discovery, Evidence, Fraud

See all updates »

Stephanie Lehman

Inheritance Rights of Domestic Partners: A Comparison Between New York and New Jersey Laws

Domestic partnerships are legal arrangements between two individuals that grant some of the same rights and benefits as marriage. While domestic partnerships are recognized in many states, inheritance rights can differ greatly… more

Beneficiaries, Domestic Partnership, Estate Planning, Estate Tax, Fiduciary Duty

See all updates »

Charles McCauley, III

Choosing a Trustee: Navigating the Complexities and Key Considerations

In this episode of 'Trust Us,' Danielle Friedman, Max McCauley, and Herb Fineburg discuss the critical aspects of selecting a trustee. They cover common client questions, including who should be named as a trustee, the benefits… more

Beneficiaries, Estate Planning, Fiduciary Duty, Financial Planning, Irrevocable Trusts

See all updates »

Niall McMillan

Quick Guide to Administrative Hearings

Join the Litigators Lounge with Offit Kurman’s Anders Sleight and Niall McMillan as they dive into the nuances of administrative proceedings versus typical civil court cases, focusing on the process, discovery limitations,… more

Administrative Agencies, Administrative Hearings, Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), Administrative Procedure Act, Administrative Proceedings

See all updates »

Michael Mercurio

Deal Flow Thawing: Is the M&A Market Finally Finding Its Footing?

After a rocky past six months, there is cautious optimism that merger and acquisition (M&A) activity is beginning to unfreeze. For much of the past year, there have been mismatched expectations around valuations and limited… more

Acquisitions, Buyers, Capital Markets, Debt, Due Diligence

See all updates »

Faith Miros

Will 2025 Bring Greater Equity Investment and Debt Financing in NJ? NJ Aspire 3.0 aspires to do just that.

On January 23, 2025, Governor Phil Murphy enacted significant amendments to the New Jersey Aspire Program by signing Senate Bill 1323/Assembly Bill 2076 into law. The amendments, collectively referred to as “NJ Aspire 3.0” are… more

Capital Markets, Community Development, Debt, Economic Development, Economic Growth

See all updates »

Marc P. Misthal

Navigating the USPTO’s New Trademark Fees

It’s finally here. After months of warnings, announcements, and uneasiness about their application, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office implemented a number of trademark-related fee changes in January 2025. These fees changes,… more

Filing Fees, Final Rules, International Trademark Protection, Madrid Protocol, Trademark Application

See all updates »

Megan Moghtaderi

Trustee's Standing in Estate Distribution: A Legal Analysis of Estate of Barry Tarlow

In a groundbreaking decision that could reshape the landscape of California estate law, the Court of Appeal in the Second District Division Four has ruled in favor of trustee David Henry Simon, affirming his right to seek a… more

Appeals, Beneficiaries, Disclaimers, Estate Planning, Probate

See all updates »

Linda Ostovitz

Strategic HR Insights with Kelly Mitchell

In this episode of Real Talk, Real Growth, host Linda Ostovitz welcomes Kelly Mitchell, owner of Impact HR. Kelly shares her extensive experience in the HR field, discussing the evolution of HR from traditional administrative… more

Business Strategies, Employee Benefits, Employer Liability Issues, Employer Responsibilities, Employment Policies

See all updates »

Deborah Petito

What to Do if ICE Shows Up at Your Workplace

The Trump administration has immediately followed through on campaign priorities of aggressive immigration enforcement. The agency in charge of immigration enforcement is the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency,… more

Compliance, Department of Homeland Security (DHS), E-Verify, Employee Rights, Employer Liability Issues

See all updates »

Albena Petrakov

The “One Big Beautiful” Bill and the State of AI Regulation

After several weeks of back and forth on a potential 10-year moratorium on state or local AI legislation and regulation enforcement, the final version of the so-called One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed into law on July 4, 2025… more

AI Act, Artificial Intelligence, Bias, Compliance Dates, Consumer Protection Laws

See all updates »

Jonathan Pollack

Unintended Inheritance Happens More Than You Think: Ensuring Your Loved Ones Inherit as Intended

Roughly two-thirds of Americans are estimated to die without executing a valid will. As a result, assets in their name will pass under the laws of intestacy of their home state. The laws of intestacy are essentially default… more

401k, Beneficiaries, Beneficiary Designations, Estate Planning, Inheritance

See all updates »

Anthony Potter

Future of Pennsylvania’s Construction Statute of Repose Hinges on Pennsylvania Supreme Court Ruling

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court will decide a pivotal case that could significantly impact the construction industry and the application of the state’s construction Statute of Repose. Aloia v. Diamant raises key questions about… more

Appellate Courts, Construction Defects, Construction Industry, Construction Litigation, Liability

See all updates »

Paul Recupero

NYDEC Announces New Environmental Justice Requirements under SEQRA and UPA

Continuing its growing initiatives to protect environmental justice communities, the New York Department of Environmental Conservation (“NYDEC”) recently announced the release of proposed amendments to its State Environmental… more

Climate Change, Environmental Justice, Environmental Policies, Permits, Proposed Rules

See all updates »

Thomas Repczynski

When a Corporate Trustee May Be a Disadvantage for Your Trust

Last month I explored the potential advantages of naming a corporate trustee, acknowledging that the decision is ultimately a matter of personal preference. In this second part of a two-part, “point-counterpoint” consideration… more

Asset Management, Beneficiaries, Estate Planning, Fees, Fiduciary Duty

See all updates »

Diane Roskies

Overlooking the Role of Cash as King

Welcome to “Lost in Translation: Blunders in International Estate Planning.” This blog series explores the rarified world of international estate planning, uncovering potential pitfalls and providing insights to navigate the… more

Estate Planning, Estate Tax, International Tax Issues, Tax Liability, Tax Planning

See all updates »

Sarah Sawyer

Non-Disparagement Tips for Employers

Attorneys Sarah Sawyer and Russell Berger from Offit Kurman discuss the nuances of non-disparagement clauses in separation agreements. They explain the difference between disparagement and defamation and emphasize the importance… more

Contract Drafting, Defamation, Employment Litigation, Employment Policies, Hiring & Firing

See all updates »

Heather Scalzo

Due Process in South Carolina Then and Now: Lessons from George Stinney's Case

George Stinney was fourteen years old when he was arrested for the murder of Betty June Binnicker and Mary Emma Thames in Alcolu, South Carolina. He is one of the youngest Americans sentenced to death and executed in the 20th… more

Appeals, Criminal Prosecution, Death Penalty, Due Process, Equal Protection

See all updates »

Anders Sleight

Quick Guide to Administrative Hearings

Join the Litigators Lounge with Offit Kurman’s Anders Sleight and Niall McMillan as they dive into the nuances of administrative proceedings versus typical civil court cases, focusing on the process, discovery limitations,… more

Administrative Agencies, Administrative Hearings, Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), Administrative Procedure Act, Administrative Proceedings

See all updates »

Dusko Stojkov

Business Tax Law Provisions of the OBBBA

The business tax provisions of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), as signed by the president on July 4, reflect sweeping changes aimed at incentivizing small businesses, domestic investment, and manufacturing. Outlined… more

Bonus Depreciation, Business Assets, Business Losses, Business Taxes, EBITDA

See all updates »

John Sweeney

Peace of Mind in a Signature: The Power of Attorney Advantage

Life can be unpredictable. Illness, injury, or cognitive impairment can strike without warning, leaving even the most organized among us unable to manage daily affairs. When that happens, who will pay your bills, manage your… more

Court-Appointed Guardians, Durable Power of Attorney, Elder Issues, Estate Planning, Guardianships

See all updates »

Louis Tambaro

Understanding the FDD and Franchise Agreement Before You Invest

Franchise Agreements are typically drafted by the franchisor and presented on a “take it or leave it” basis. These contracts often impose strict controls over how you operate your business — from approved vendors and marketing… more

Commercial Leases, Contract Terms, Due Diligence, Fees, Franchise Agreements

See all updates »

Laura Winston

Trademark Registration Misconceptions: What Brand Owners Should Know

Many business owners view trademark registration as a smart investment—and they’re right. A federal registration gives you valuable legal advantages, including nationwide priority, a presumption of ownership, and stronger tools… more

Goods or Services, Lanham Act, Likelihood of Confusion, Prior Use, Trademark Application

See all updates »

Katherine Witherspoon Fry

EEOC Investigates 20 Private Law Firms Questioning Their DEI-Related Employment Practices

On March 17, EEOC Acting Chair Andrea Lucas sent letters to 20 large law firms requesting information about their diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) related employment practices. The letters express the EEOC’s suspicions that… more

Bias, Civil Rights Act, Discrimination, Diversity and Inclusion Standards (D&I), Employment Discrimination

See all updates »

Offit Kurman

"My best business intelligence, in one easy email…"

"My best business intelligence,
in one easy email…"