Civil rights are the foundation of a free and fair society—protecting individuals against discrimination and ensuring equal treatment under the law. But when those rights are violated, the legal system must offer more than theory—it must provide a path to justice. Civil rights litigation is that path. It is the...
Unveiling the Complexities of Intellectual Property Litigation: Safeguarding Innovation
In today’s fast-paced, innovation-driven economy, intellectual property (IP) is often a company’s most valuable asset. Proprietary technologies, distinctive brand identities, creative works, and confidential business processes form the backbone of competitive advantage.
Financial Wellness or Legal Minefield? Hidden Risks in Employer-Sponsored Financial Programs
In recent years, “financial wellness programs” have become a hot trend in employee benefits. Marketed as tools to improve employee retention, reduce financial stress, and promote smarter money management, these programs are often bundled with investment advisory services, insurance offerings, or “free” financial consultations.
Trade Dress: Protecting the Total Image of Your Product
Trade dress is the distinctive appearance given to a product by a seller. Trade dress helps customers recognize the company’s products and distinguishes them from competing products and sellers. A commonly cited example of trade dress is the wavy curved shape of the glass bottle traditionally used to sell Coca-Cola....
What is the Law on Damages in Minnesota Defamation Cases?
Defamation cases in Minnesota, as in most jurisdictions, are built on a delicate balance between protecting free speech and providing recourse for individuals who have suffered reputational harm due to false statements. The offending language must be a statement of fact that can be proven true or false and not...
Customer Suitability Claims Against Financial Advisors and Broker-Dealers in FINRA Arbitrations: Key Considerations, Risks, and Advantages
The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) arbitration process is the primary forum for resolving disputes between investors and financial professionals, including financial advisors and broker-dealers. Among the most common claims in FINRA arbitration are customer suitability claims, in which investors allege that their financial advisor recommended investments that were inappropriate...
Understanding Derivative Claims in Minnesota: Key Information for LLC Members
As a member of a Minnesota Limited Liability Company (LLC), you may encounter circumstances in which the LLC has suffered harm—perhaps due to the actions of another member, a manager, or a third party—yet the LLC itself declines to address the issue. In these situations, you may have the right...
DEI: Reflections on the Summer Banned Book Club
Last summer, the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee at Parker Daniels Kibort held a Summer Banned Book Club. The Banned Book Club met in June, July, and August to discuss The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood, Kindred by Octavia Butler, and Gender Queer: A Memoir by Maia Kobabe. The purpose...
Advanced Strategies and Key Legal Considerations in Premium Financed Life Insurance
Premium financed life insurance (PFLI) is pitched to high-net-worth individuals as a highly effective tool for seeking to secure substantial coverage without disrupting liquidity. However, this complex strategy comes with significant legal and financial risks that, if not properly managed, can lead to costly litigation.
Employer Alert: Preparing for 2025
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) generally requires employers to pay an employee overtime if the employee works more than 40 hours a week. Employees exempt from this requirement include administrative, professional, and executive employees—collectively referred to as “white collar” employees.