California & Nevada Legal Blog

Any business is at risk of having complaints filed by clients or customers. Unfortunately, some companies may not see those complaints easily resolved because parties choose to file lawsuits against them. As a result, companies may have to go through business litigation in order to have the predicament addressed.

When Nevada residents do their estate planning, one possible option is a spendthrift trust for one or more beneficiaries. While this is not the ideal solution for all individuals, funding such a trust can provide trust grantors with the peace of mind they need to realize that their loved ones' needs will be met in the future.

The real estate market in California and across the country has its ups and downs. A fluctuating economy can impact property investment and sales in the United States. Some people purchase property only to walk away from their deals before closing of escrow, which can sometimes spark real estate disputes regarding escrow deposits.

Judges in family courts often order California spouses who divorce to provide financial supplement to their exes on a temporary basis. In such cases, the court determines what a reasonable period of time might be, then issues an order that specifies the terms. One man has been outspoken in saying that he believes the state's spousal support laws need to change.

Most California spouses who decide to sever their marital ties would agree that it is a life-changing experience that is not particularly easy to navigate. Especially when children are involved, divorce can be emotionally upsetting, financially challenging and, in some cases, legally complex. However, when a concerned parent knows where to seek support and sets goals that keep children's best interests in mind, it is often possible to part ways without contention.

California music fans grieved the death of the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, along with the rest of the world. Many of Franklin's fans have closely followed news about litigation involving her heirs since then. Soon after Franklin passed away, it was thought she had not executed a last will and testament.

Choosing the right partner with whom to start a business is a bit like getting married. Make the right choice and you can look forward to many happy years ahead. Pick the wrong person and you are trapped in a shared misery.

Whether you've been working for decades or only recently began your journey into adulthood, it is never too soon to think about the future. You work hard to save money and to acquire things such as a home, a vehicle and perhaps even a vacation property, so it's understandable you want to protect those assets. It's also logical to assume that you want to do whatever you can to provide for your loved ones down the line and help them avoid a lengthy probate process when the time comes to administer your California estate. Estate planning is a valuable tool that can help you accomplish all of these goals and more.

Getting divorced is stressful. If two California spouses get along fairly well and are both merely looking to end their marriage peacefully and move on, the process might be swift and relatively painless. If, on the other hand, serious problems arise such as hiding assets during complex property division proceedings, it is critical to know where to seek support. Knowing where to look for hidden assets as well as what to do about such as scheme can be challenging, and it is best to rely on help from someone well-versed in such issues.

Britney Spears has a lot of fans in California and throughout the country. Many of them have followed news updates regarding problems in her personal life, including family law issues, conservator issues and, even, mental health problems. Such fans may be glad to learn that Spears and her ex, Kevin Federline, have modified their child custody agreement to include unsupervised visits for Spears. Any parent in this state who has encountered visitation challenges may want to read more about this case.

Co-parents who work as a team can keep stress levels low. It almost goes without saying that parental conflict causes kids stress. When California parents divorce during their children's summer break from school, the return to the classroom may spark a few challenges.

Celebrity interviewer Larry King has enjoyed a long, successful career and is a well-known talk show host in most California households and throughout the United States. King's recent health problems, as well as past and present marital issues are often the topic of headline news as well. His two sons, ages 19 and 20, reportedly have convinced their dad to file for divorce from their own mother.

If you decide to divorce, it's natural to turn your immediate attention to your finances. More specifically, you may have concerns about property and debt division.

Being a construction contractor can feel like studying to pass the bar exam. It doesn’t take long for you to realize you’re in the legal profession.

Not every California divorce is plain and simple, or obtained without complications. There are cases where spouses determine their differences are not reconcilable and they negotiate a fair settlement in a swift and amicable fashion. Many times, however, there are complex issues or spousal disputes that spark contentious court battles and lengthy proceedings. Actress Geena Davis has apparently been going through that type of divorce because of spousal support issues and a question as to whether she and her ex were ever really married.

For some time now, actress Jennifer Hudson and her ex, David Ortunga, have been fighting over legal issues regarding their son. Many fans of "Hudson in California" and beyond have been following the case. While the two were never married, they were engaged for a time. After deciding to end their relationship, the former couple was unable to agree on child custody matters regarding their son, who is now age nine.

Virtually all parents in California and beyond want what is best for their children. In matters of divorce, however, this if often a hotly debated issue. One parent might think it is best for children to attend private school while the other wants to try home schooling. When a judge issues a legal child custody ruling, he or she is granting one or both parents decision-making authority.

In matters of estate in California or elsewhere, it is imperative that instructions in a last will and testament or trust be written so that all parties specified clearly understand the terms in the documents. If a particular phrase or wording is ambiguous, it could affect the validity of a particular inheritance document. Actress/model/swimsuit designer Elizabeth Hurley had a son out of wedlock years ago and his biological, paternal grandfather tried to convince the court that the term "grandchild" contained in a trust was ambiguous.

Many California business owners are currently facing copyright problems that will likely prompt lawsuits. Business litigation can be a complicated matter, especially when it comes to intellectual property rights, patents, copyrights and other issues. Iconic superpower Disney and several other companies were recently awarded more than $62 million in a copyright infringement lawsuit.

A trust is a right to property that is held by one party for the benefit of another. A trustee is the person or organization that owns a trust and a beneficiary is the party that benefits from the trust.

Many small business owners in California have worked for decades to bring their dreams to fruition. As time goes own, thoughts of the future may become more prevalent, especially if a business owner has adult children or other descendants who can continue to build the legacy that he or she has begun. The problem is that it takes a lot more than thought to bring a business succession into action.

When you told your children you had filed for divorce in a California court, they likely had different reactions. Perhaps one child became sullen and quiet while another expressed anger and frustration. While every child's reaction to such news is unique, most kids are able to adapt if they have the constant love and support of both parents. If child custody problems arise, it's always best to resolve them as amicably and swiftly as possible.

Many California residents and business owners suffered substantial economic damages due to the wildfire sparked by a campfire last November. The fire was one of the most destructive and deadliest ever to occur in the modern world. The tragedy has apparently prompted contentious business litigation as well, and a judge recently ruled that the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has overstepped its boundaries.

Not every California divorce goes smoothly. In fact, some people, especially parents who disagree about child-related issues, part ways on highly acrimonious terms. Children are often negatively affected by parental conflict in divorce, so parenting plans should always focus on their best interests.

There are a variety of estate planning tools at your disposal. Most people are familiar with wills, but your estate plan could also include documents like powers of attorney, advance health care directives, trusts and others. The trick to creating an effective estate plan is choosing the right documents for your unique situation.

National Basketball Association fans in California are no doubt familiar with Kawhi Leonard, whose team is preparing to face the Golden State Warriors in the finals this year. Leonard is also facing a legal issue in his private life that basketball enthusiasts hope does not interfere with his game on the court. Athletic sportswear and equipment mogul Nike is also involved in the business litigation situation.

It’s unlikely that you thought of how to end a registered domestic partnership when you entered the relationship. That’s okay since the start of any relationship like a domestic partnership is often the happiest and how to terminate it may not cross your mind.

Many MTV fans in California and across the country have followed the daily life saga of former "Teen Mom 2" star Jenelle Evans. MTV did not renew Evans' contract and also fired David Eason, the man to whom Evans is now married. The young mother of three is once again trying to regain child custody of her kids. This time, her spouse has also lost custody of his own 11-year-old daughter.

Before 2019 ends, many people in California and elsewhere will decide to divorce. In some situations, a spouse might file for an uncontested divorce. Other cases are more complicated, which may lead to litigation. Regardless of the details of a particular couple's history, it pays to know where to seek support to help make a marital breakup as painless as possible.

Many California residents can understand why a community might feel frustrated if a demolition/construction project that was scheduled to be complete in a year was left unfinished. Construction law problems can arise that cause serious delays on a job site. That appears to be the problem in another state where real estate developers have stifled payments on a contract they say has fallen way behind schedule.

When the average person in California uploads a photograph on Instagram, it is highly unlikely it will draw the attention of millions of viewers, unless it happens to go viral for some reason. When the Instagram user is a pop music star, it is not only common but probable that a photograph of interest will get millions of "likes." Ariana Grande, one of the world's leading contemporary music artists, is currently entangled in business litigation regarding copyright issues on two photographs of herself that she apparently posted on the popular social media site. 

Whether you're a sole proprietor or part of a large corporation, as a California business owner or executive, you have likely encountered numerous challenges within the scope of your work. Contracts, client relations, employee pay and benefits and other issues can often become central focuses of dispute. If you're unable to resolve such problems through out-of-court negotiations, you may seek the court's intervention through business litigation.

When California spouses determine that their marital relationships are no longer sustainable, they typically face some important decisions. If divorce is part of the plan, parents must also resolve numerous issues concerning their children. In most cases, the court believes shared custody arrangements are best.

Are you one of many California residents who would prefer to talk about almost anything else rather than your own mortality? While it is true that the topic causes a lot of people to wince, it is also true that death is an unavoidable aspect of life. Avoidance of the topic is just one of several key issues that cause people to hesitate when it comes to estate planning.

As a California property owner, any number of issues can arise that cause a legal concern. Real estate disputes can be quite stressful to resolve, especially if you are not fully aware of the regulations, building codes or state laws that may affect your situation. That's why it is critical to know where to seek legal support if you are facing a particularly difficult issue that you feel ill-equipped to handle on your own.

Many California readers have been following the divorce saga of Amazon founder, Jeff Bezos and his now former wife, MacKenzie. The two married long before Bezos became the richest man in the world. They have four children together. The former couple recently settled their high-asset divorce.

While the specific reasons a California couple decides to end their marriage in court is not directly related to cost, such issues can indeed have an impact on proceedings. For instance, if a divorce is contested, it may take longer to finalize than situations of uncontested lawsuits. The longer it takes to rectify problem issues, the greater the related expenses are likely to be.

If you’re a subcontractor on a construction job and have not been paid, there are ways to make sure you can strengthen your position so you can receive payment in full.

Like many California parents, you likely have gone through stages in life where it seemed that your children did little more than bicker with each other. Regardless of their current ages, sibling rivalry is nothing new. However, where adult children are concerned when discussing inheritance, there are numerous documents you can sign to help prevent family disputes when the time comes to administer your estate. You can customize the estate planning process to fit your particular family's needs.

Are you worried that someone could rob your elderly or disabled relative of their assets? When a vulnerable person needs someone to look out for their finances, the court can help you set up a conservatorship.

It is not uncommon for California employees and employers to encounter problems in their business relationships. Many times, such disagreements involve wage and hours issues or benefits, promotions and other work-related matters. A business litigation case was recently commenced when a firefighter decided to sue his employer for discrimination and breach of contract.

There are currently parents in California who are preparing for divorce. Many of them are at odds with their soon-to-be exes regarding child custody issues. Litigation may be needed in some cases where peaceful negotiation has proved unsuccessful. Court proceedings can be quite complex, especially if one parent accuses the other of being a detriment to the child or children in question.

Real estate law is complex. Those interested in purchasing, selling, building or renovating real estate in California will want to make sure they seek clarification of any laws, regulations or building codes that may apply to their situations. While real estate disputes are not uncommon, they can be difficult to resolve, especially if property owners, selling agencies or builders try to handle problem situations on their own.

It is not uncommon for California parents to turn to extended family members for support when disagreements arise regarding visitation, support or other child-related issues. What is perhaps not so common, however, is for a  grandparent to side with the co-parent that is not his or her son or daughter. That appears to be the case for Hollywood star, Blac Chyna, as she and Rob Kardashian continue to hash out legal issues pertaining to child custody and other issues.

Many California residents enjoy following the lives of their favorite Hollywood stars. Some take their fashion cues from trending celebrities. Others feel like they can relate to various stories regarding the personal lives of their favorite stars, especially regarding divorce and custody issues. Numerous celebrities, such as Chris Pratt, Anna Faris, Miranda Kerr and Orlando Bloom, have developed parenting plans that may inspire others to keep their children's best interests in mind and to try to avoid conflict at all costs.

A property dispute often starts with a small action. A neighbor decides to put up a new fence that is pushing onto your property, or a tree on your property has a branch that hangs over your neighbor’s yard. Both actions are small but have enormous consequences.

Joel Marcus lives in California and happens to be a real estate tycoon who is credited for creating biotech hubs of commercial science lab properties in various regions of the United States. He is founder of Alexandria Real Estate Equities, which has a current market value of approximately $14 billion. Marcus is also currently entangled in a bitter business litigation situation involving his son.

Nowadays, many health insurance companies get into legal skirmishes with medical providers. Business litigation is often necessary when disagreements arise regarding health plans and costs insurers should pay to belong to a particular network. One of the largest health insurers in California, Anthem Blue Cross, is currently at odds over contract issues with Sutter Health, a situation which is causing many enrollees much stress.

Many California homeowners and business owners alike understand how complex construction regulations can be. From negotiating, executing and reviewing a contract, signing parties may run into construction law obstacles that are difficult to resolve. If you're currently facing problems associated with contract terminology, scope of work issues or payment disputes, you may want to discuss your situation with someone adept at handling construction and contract-related legal issues.

California spouses filing paperwork to end their marriages in 2019 likely understand that the process ahead may include some serious challenges. Especially if children are involved, numerous issues must be negotiated and resolved before a fair and agreeable settlement can be achieved. What about pets? In divorce, should disputes over a cat, dog or other animal be resolved as custody issues or in property division proceedings?

Jenelle Evans is a familiar name in many California households, especially those that include fans of the reality TV show "Teen Mom." Evans and her fellow cast members are gearing up for their second season, which in her case, may be clouded by child custody problems she is currently facing regarding her ex boyfriend and her son. The child was reportedly staying with his father for a weekend visit when problems arose.

The start of a New Year is a time for people to make resolutions for the coming year and start new positive habits. Many in California may decide to do things like get healthy in 2019, get more organized or meet certain career goals. It can also be beneficial for a person to consider his or her estate planning needs, whether that is drafting a plan or adjusting existing plans.

Entrepreneurial partnerships are often risky business. California business owners who take on partners are wise to write out the terms of their agreements in a thorough and well-defined manner. It is also a top priority to make certain that any and all who are signing a partnership contract clearly understand the obligations and responsibilities set therein. If a partner breaches an agreement, business litigation may result.

Deciding that a marriage is over is an intensely personal decision. Such a decision often leads to divorce and property division proceedings. It is always a good idea to learn about the ins and outs of such proceedings in California ahead of time, rather than possibly facing unexpected surprises in court.  

Whether you're a California homeowner or contractor, you may currently be facing problematic issues related to a construction contract. Construction law can be quite complex, and when problems arise, it is critical to know where to seek legal support, as needed. It is also beneficial to have someone well versed in this area of law on hand to review a proposed contract before it is signed in order to protect your interests.

You finally finished your estate plan. It was hard work and you put a lot of time and effort into it, but you can finally rest easy knowing that you have a plan for the future. However, could you be making one fatal error?

After a 14-plus-year career in the NBA, Matt Barnes retired in 2017. He also got divorced from the mother of his two sons. He recently welcomed another son into the world in his current relationship with model Anansa Sims. As many California parents can relate, Barnes told the court that he could no longer afford to pay child support according to the existing terms of his agreement.  

Many hospitality workers in California and across the country have been following a situation that began when thousands of hotel workers, bartenders and others walked off their jobs to protest numerous issues in their contracts. More than 2,000 Marriott hotel employees started a strike that lasted two months. The workers recently agreed to go back to work after their contract was ratified. However, the workers who had been hired by the hotel to replace the strikers have now filed business litigation of their own.

Monster Energy drinks are popular across the country. However, the company has been involved in business litigation; one claim recently ended in a victory for the energy drink mogul, while another was filed against the company by a celebrity surfer. The case that just ended was pending in a federal district court in California. Monster was awarded a $5 million jury verdict against Supply Network, LLC for trademark infringement. 

Life is fragile and when a loved one is experiencing health complications, others are needed to carry the load and communicate with caretakers and legal entities. Going through this type of situation is often stressful and requires a new understanding of how to be involved and ensure your loved one gets the help they need. There are many types of decisions families face after a tragic accident has incapacitated a person or elderly complications set in.

When two California parents decided to end their marriage, it is not only the couple themselves but children and other extended family members who are affected by the decision. Children react to divorce in many different ways, often depending on the age of the child but also due to the unique personality of each child. Parents who learn as much as they can about typical childhood reactions to such situations may be better able to provide encouragement and support to their kids.  

There is no one way to come to terms with a marriage falling apart. Such situations often lead to divorce, and every California couple handles their circumstances in their own way. A woman in another state decided she wanted to celebrate the ending of her marriage, so she invited her family and friends to join her for a party at her father's farm; she also blew up her wedding dress.  

Many California residents use the public transportation system as a regular means of travel. Transit companies are typically under contract with a particular city. If a business litigation situation arises -- for instance, if a contract dispute occurs -- it may not only directly affect the workers themselves but may also impact the general public that uses the system.

California fans of the popular TV show "Grey's Anatomy" are familiar with one of the show's stars, Jesse Williams. Although he has captured the hearts of fans in this state and throughout the nation, Williams has been going through a rough child support and custody battle with his former wife. Some empathizing parents across the nation say Williams is definitely getting the short end of the stick.

You may already know how important it is to have an estate plan, but do you know everything that should be included in your plan? Since the future is unpredictable, it is important to create a comprehensive estate plan to make sure your family and your final wishes are taken care of.

Saks Fifth Avenue has been around for a long time. Most luxury shoppers in California are familiar with the high-end retailer, whose flagship store is located in the Northeastern part of the country. The business litigation involves a claim made by Cartier, another high-end company known for its jewelry and watches.

When "The Godfather of Soul," James Brown, died in 2006, he was 73, and he had entertained music fans in California and beyond for decades. A woman at least 30 years younger than Brown says she was legally his wife at the time of his death and, therefore, should be entitled to at least 50 percent of the interests in his music. She has also asserted that Brown merely forgot to update his final will and testament, and that is why she and the son they had together are not mentioned as heirs or beneficiaries in the document.  

When you realized your marriage was about to end, you may have started thinking more about your future. Thoughts regarding divorce, as well as where you'll live and how you will divide parenting time, may have occupied your mind. Like most good parents in California, you want what is best for your kids; however, if you and your spouse don't agree on how to interpret that, problems may arise.

Many California residents also happen to be business owners. Any number of issues can have an impact on a company's bottom line and perhaps even place a business owner's best interests at risk. One such issue is divorce.  

When California parents disagree about child-related issues, it often leads to litigation. Especially in child custody situations where one of the parents refuses to adhere to an existing court order, the court's intervention may be necessary to resolve the issue. A judge in another state has been overseeing a highly contentious case and is currently considering reassigning the case to another judge before she steps down.  

No contractor enjoys collecting debts. The process requires time, persistence and is just an added nuisance. Many contractors are in charge of paying out other subcontractors, as well. When someone fails to pay you for your work, multiple people feel the sting. Fortunately, there are solutions to an otherwise frustrating problem.

Hollywood fans in California and the world over recently mourned the unexpected passing of film superstar, Burt Reynolds. On a recent Monday in another state, Reynolds' final will was filed in court. News regarding the filing included some surprising details about inheritance.

A 79-year-old man built a lasting legacy with more than 100 commercial truck centers throughout 22 states, including California. W. Marvin Rush, II, was the founder of the largest truck chain on the North American continent. When the stock market closed for the day on a recent Friday, shares for Rush Enterprises were worth nearly $74 million. W. M. Rush, III, the decedent's son, as well as his third wife (his son's stepmother) are fighting over the shares, each referencing wills the decedent is said to have signed.

If you're one of many California residents who do not really like to talk about their own mortality, count yourself among a likely majority. However, when it comes to estate planning, not talking about it can lead to problems for your potential heirs and beneficiaries after you die. Several big-ticket Hollywood stars have passed away in recent years without leaving final wills and testaments.

Many California readers are familiar with the Tinder mobile app. For those who are not, it is a mobile social app that allows people to connect and chat and is often used as a dating site. Tinder is owned by InterActiveCorp, and its owners were recently named as defendants in business litigation filed by a group of its first stockholders.

A class action lawsuit has been filed in another state. The central focus of the real estate disputes has to do with dual agents and whether or not a listing company failed to comply with regulations. The lead plaintiff in the case is a woman who recently purchased a home but now claims certain issues were not properly disclosed to her at the time of the transaction. California home buyers may want to follow this case.

Deciding how to divide parenting responsibilities can be complicated. Creating a parenting plan is difficult and figuring out how to execute it can be even more complex. However, successful co-parenting is important for both you and your kids.

Not every child-related family law situation in California is easily resolvable. In some situations, for instance, where biological parents were never married or complex circumstances exist, such as those involving allegations of abuse, the court may have to take numerous factors under consideration before making child custody rulings. An ongoing situation in another state is an example of a case that includes several troubling, extenuating circumstances.  

One of the oldest railroad companies in the nation is currently involved in a dispute with another railway company that has plans to install a high-speed system in California. Union Pacific Railroad and California High Speed Rail Authority do not see eye to eye regarding a 100-foot wide section of property to which the railroad company currently has a right-of-way. In fact, it has had the right-of-way since Abraham Lincoln himself granted it in the 1860s. Business litigation may be necessary to resolve this problem.  

Most California parents want what is best for their children. Even when married couples divorce, they often try their best to make their children's best interests the central focus of proceedings, especially concerning custody, visitation and support issues. If you had every intention of doing so but your co-parent is making it impossible to peacefully live out a parenting plan agreement, it's understandable that you may feel frustrated and at a loss as to where to seek support.  

An important relationship affected significantly by divorce includes children and their grandparents. Especially when a judge grants sole custody to one parent, visitation rights of grandparents of the other parent often prove overlooked.

While there may be some California business owners who stand by a good old-fashioned handshake and a verbal agreement to do business, most understand that the absence of a written contract can place them at risk. A married couple in another state who own a bakery business together is currently involved in real estate disputes after recently trying to negotiate a new rental lease with their landlord. The couple says when the landlord mentioned that she'd be raising their rent, they were not surprised by or opposed to the idea. 

Anyone who signs commercial or residential property agreements in California will want to make sure all parties involved clearly understand the terms of their contracts. Real estate disputes often arise when one or more parties fail to adhere to agreed-upon terms. A situation unfolding in another state is an example of what can happen when such disputes occur.  

Most California business owners understand the importance of trade secrets security. If a design, system, recipe or client list falls into the wrong hands, it can mean ultimate defeat in a competitive environment. While many business leaders understand that they need to protect their trade secrets, just as many are unsure how to do so. Business litigation often results when trade secret problems get out of hand.  

When California parents decide they no longer wish to remain married, they are often concerned with how their decision will affect their children. Studies show kids fare best when parents make focused efforts to maintain a sense of normalcy and routine after divorce, especially regarding family customs and holiday celebrations. There are several things divorced parents can do to avoid custody stress during the holidays.  

California baby boomers may be among those who remember watching TV news clips about astronaut Buzz Aldrin and his fellow space team members as they landed on the moon. Aldrin is living out his elder years at this time, which have sadly been negatively affected by a contentious battle with his intended heirs, specifically, one of his sons and his daughter. The two adult children say their father is mentally incapacitated and have therefore petitioned the court to appoint them as legal guardians.  

The divorce process can be difficult. Deciding to split with your spouse is a big decision that has a variety of effects. Divorce is often stressful and can take an emotional toll on both parties involved, as well as the lives of your children.

A project developer in another state has filed a lawsuit against a homeowner who he says has breached a contract they both signed. Litigation was fueled by real estate disputes that erupted when the homeowner decided not to sell his house to the builder, which, he claims, he had the right to do. California builders or property owners currently facing contract problems may want to review this case.  

Many California homeowners will enter signed agreements with contractors this summer. Most will carefully review applicable construction law ahead of time to avoid trouble down the line. However, even if a particular party signing an agreement has done the research, any number of things can still go wrong to cause completion delays or legal disputes.

A man in another state has canceled a proposed deal to sell the home he has owned for approximately 30 years. He was under contract with a building developer, who happens to already own several lots on the same street. The man had agreed to purchase the home for $700,000. Those dealing with real estate disputes in California may want to follow this case.

Pop music star Britney Spears is the mother of two sons. She is no longer married to their father. Their breakup was plastered all over news headlines in great detail, reportedly causing Spears to suffer a mental breakdown in 2007. California parents currently facing child support disputes may relate to what this former couple has gone through since then.  

Many people know someone who has special needs. That means they have a disability (either physically or mentally) and require additional help and support. A trust in business is a relationship which gives the trustee the right to hold on to possessions or resources for the beneficial party. So, you may ask yourself what is a special needs trust?

Every California family is unique and those who are currently navigating divorce may need some extra support to overcome the challenges that arise. Creating new parenting plans is often the most difficult part of divorce, especially if parents do not agree on certain issues. There are several ways to avoid major post-divorce stress, all of which include each parent's willingness to act in children's best interests.  

Many California parents have marital problems. Some are able to face their troubles head-on and overcome obstacles in their relationships. Others are unable to resolve their differences and decide that divorce is their best option. Parents, in particular, often hope to take advantage of divorce mediation, although it's wise, even if that is the intention, to be prepared for litigation in case things do not go as planned.  

The University of California was recently the scene of an employment protest when thousands of service workers went on strike. When employees and employers are unable to resolve contract disagreements, business litigation is often necessary to achieve fair solutions. This particular situation includes workers from the university's 10 different campuses.  The workers are represented by a local  union group from the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees.

In one of the nation's oldest cities, commercial property owners are upset about certain administrative decisions they believe have given an unfair competitive advantage to the owners of a particular building. California business owners currently facing similar real estate disputes may want to follow this case. It involves a building that was erected in 1921, the owners of which have been granted more than 70 parking credits for their future business clients.

Blending families is often inevitable when people divorce and re-marry or get married for the first time with someone who has children from a previous relationship. The challenge of establishing parenting plans is often intensified in blended families, especially if one or both parents already has an existing court order with another party. Most California family analysts agree it's best to discuss such matters and set boundaries before entering a marriage that creates a step-parent/child relationship.  

Today there are over 351,000 homeowner associations (HOAs) in the U.S. A steep increase from the less than 500 that existed in the 1960s. In fact, HOAs account for more than 53 percent of owner occupied homes in America.

Many California readers may already be aware of how challenging divorce can be. For instance, if a complex property division problem arises, litigation may be necessary to obtain a fair and satisfactory solution. Such may wind up being the case for the former mayor Rudy Giuliani as he prepares for his third divorce. 

What happens if you sign a business contract with someone who then fails to adhere to its terms? Drafting a contract is often an integral component of business relations in California. If you've signed various contracts in the past, you understand the importance of using precise terminology, as well as making sure those who are adding their signatures fully understand all obligations and responsibilities inherent in the agreement. Business litigation is sometimes needed to resolve serious contract problems. 

It is true that a divorce gets more complicated when there are custody issues involved. If a couple owns property in both California and Nevada and spends time in each state over the course of the year, which state handles the custody negotiations? It can depend on many factors. Here are some common questions relating to multi-state custody issues.

Star of the popular TV show Rehab Addict, Nicole Curtis, recently spoke about love, family, life goals and her own family matters. In this case, the latter involves an ongoing child custody battle with the father of her 3-year-old son. Curtis also has a 20-year-old son and says she hopes to one day find love like her grandparents had, although her efforts have not yet been successful. California parents facing similar issues may also worry about the impact their custody disagreements may have on their kids.

Fans in California and around the world mourned the loss of country music great Glen Campbell following his courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease. A battle of another kind, however, has arisen after his death. Several of his older children have filed a lawsuit, requesting that the court recognize them as rightful heirs to a portion of their father's estate. 

Perhaps you're one of many California residents who are gearing up for their first ever home purchase. On the other hand, you may already own several commercial or private properties throughout the state. Either way, you no doubt understand that various challenges may arise before you seal a particular deal. It's no secret that real estate disputes can lead to serious economic loss; the sooner you resolve such problems, the better.

In California and elsewhere, child custody is sometimes a hot button issue. Two parents in another state are currently involved in an extremely stressful child custody battle. The mother of one of the parents is also involved.

Good parents in California and beyond want what is best for their children. Sometimes, that means they must make decisions in their children's best interests, even if their children will not like the decisions they've made. In some situations, such as divorce, children may need reminding that parents do what they do because they love their kids.

In today’s globally mobile society, some families are taking advantage of work-from-home options, telecommuting and other flexible working schedules so they can live and work from where they choose. The benefits of such schemes means people can move more freely without worrying about losing a sustainable job they love.

Most California movie watchers are familiar with The Walt Disney Co. The entertainment giant and Redbox, a movie rental company, have been battling out a few issues in court. The business litigation appears to have tipped the scales to Redbox's favor following a federal judge's recent ruling. A central focus of the legal dispute is whether Redbox has infringed upon Disney's rights by selling download codes for Disney movies in its red kiosks, stationed at various locations throughout the country.

California estate owners and future beneficiaries may want to pay close attention to a particular probate battle as it unfolds in court. The situation involves an adult child of the now-deceased former CEO of Bendix Corporation, William M. Agee, who is fighting her stepmother over her father's estate. The stepmother, Mary Cunningham Agee, claims her husband was no longer in his right mind when he reportedly changed his estate plan weeks before his death to give his daughter power of attorney.

Many California homeowners enjoy making improvements on their property. If a neighbor or neighbors objects to a proposed improvement plan, perhaps claiming a new fence or line of trees would encroach over property lines or a shared road easement, etc., things can quickly escalate into bitter real estate disputes. When that happens, it may takes weeks or months to resolve the issues at hand.

California parents are like most others in that their central focus in life is the overall well-being of their children. Significant responsibilities and obligations go hand-in-hand with parenting. That's why divorces involving parents can be especially challenging, particularly if spouses disagree on child custody issues.

It's understandable that California business owners and others who worked long and hard to get their companies off the ground are concerned about the future -- namely, how to protect the legacies they've worked so hard to build. Many prudent business owners also think ahead, knowing there will come a time when they are deceased or no longer able to head their companies due to mental or physical decline. Executing a solid business succession plan ahead of time and working it into an estate plan may be the best means for protecting assets and ensuring the continuation of a business.

For many, hiding bank accounts is worse than cheating. Certainly, the violation of trust involved with hiding money is on par with physical cheating for a significant number of people.

For many California residents and commercial property owners, the year ahead includes a long to-do list that includes the task of selling a home or commercial building. Such ventures are typically not without their challenges. However, when sellers are familiar with state codes and regulations and are able to negotiate fair deals with prospective buyers, chances for successful outcomes are high. The story may be quite different though if real estate disputes arise.

Millions of music fans in California and beyond enjoy listening to the top-of-the-charts hits for which country music and pop music stars Ed Sheeran, Tim McGraw and Faith Hill are known for performing. Although McGraw and Hill are mainly known for their country music songs, they recently released a hit that Sheeran wrote for them. The situation has led to business litigation whereupon two Australian songwriters claim Sheeran stole a song that already existed, which they wrote.

For many years, Kate and Harrison’s marriage seemed to be going great—until it wasn’t. Now they’ve agreed that divorce is their best option. They’ve also agreed to equal custody of the children. However, they are disputing what to do with their rental property. Harrison wants to keep it, while Kate believes it would be better to sell it. There is also significant shared debt. The divorce is further complicated by a substantial number of assets to divide. Kate’s attorney has recommended the soon to be ex-couple try divorce mediation.

A lawsuit has been filed against Ford Motor Company. Since 2015, a long list of automakers, including Ford, have been accused of diesel cheating -- rigging vehicles to beat emissions tests. Ford owners in California may want to keep tabs on this business litigation case.

You thought that the new tenants were going to be trouble-free. Their background check came back clean, and there were no red flags at the beginning, but they are late on the rent. What are your options at this point to collect the rent that is due, and if you can't do that, what are the steps to evict tenants? Here are the rights of landlords according to Nevada law.

Many people in California have, at some point in their lives, taken prescription pain relief medication for various acute or chronic conditions. The manufacturer of a frequently prescribed opioid used for such purposes is currently involved in business litigation where city officials in another state have accused the company of trying to turn a profit by knowingly making its product available in illegal drug markets. As often happens in business litigation situations, complications have arisen that have caused frustration for the plaintiffs in this case.

Life as an actor or other type of entertainer in California (or anywhere for that matter) is often filled with challenges, especially for those who happen to be married with children. Sometimes, life on the road or traveling back and forth between a family home and hotel can place undue hardships on marital relationships. Unfortunately, some marriages can't survive the pressure. SNL alumnus, Bill Hader, may relate to this description as he has recently filed for divorce from his Maggie Carey, a screenwriter and director.

The music and entertainment world in California and around the globe was rocked to its core when several pop superstars suffered untimely deaths. Prince, Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston were central figures in the pop music industry for most of their careers. In addition to remembering them for the international impact they made with their musical talents, many people now mention their names when discussing major estate planning errors to avoid.

When you’re starting a business with a partner, it may seem like you two are perfectly in sync and will never have an issue with one another. The reality is that most business partners will butt heads once in a while.

There are many family-run businesses in California and throughout the nation. Astute business owners understand the importance of thorough estate planning, especially when it comes to executing business succession plans. This can be a tricky process because many family-run businesses include several adult children who may not agree on or be capable of managing the company in question.

Sometimes, it helps to reach out for support from a trusted confidant, perhaps a friend, work colleague or family member, when trying to adapt to a new lifestyle after divorce. However, there are certain topics that may feel a bit too new or too private to share although you might still feel a need to seek assistance in some way. For instance, if you have an existing court order and are experiencing problems where your parenting plans are concerned, it may help to speak to someone who has gone to bat for other California parents in similar situations.

An attorney representing former professional wrestler and reality TV star David Otunga said his client is not worried about the allegations Oscar winning actress Jennifer Hudson has made against him. The two were formerly engaged to be married. They are now engaged in a child custody battle over their son. There may be California parents facing similar situations.

In 1978, a law was passed to keep the U.S. government from separating native American families in California or anywhere, except under certain circumstances. In a child custody battle that has been lingering for years, one parent is of native American descent, the other is not. The parents are fighting over custody of their two children who, of course, are part native American.

Copyright property laws are often complex and determining whether infringement has occurred can be challenging. Many California business owners are currently battling such issues out in court; others are wondering whether they have grounds to launch business litigation against parties who have possibly infringed upon their intellectual property rights. In either case, reaching out for experienced guidance and support is often the best way to handle such matters.

It happens to every contractor at some point. They do a job, submit the bill, and commence to wait ... and wait.

It is no secret that many California marriages, like others throughout the nation, will not last the lifetimes of those involved. Divorce rates are extremely high, and there are apparently several factors that suggest a propensity toward marital dissolution. If a particular couple experiences one or more issues on the list, it might be a sign that trouble lies ahead.

When you divorced,  you knew you and your children would face your share of challenges as you adapt to a new lifestyle. You were pleased when summer went well; you may even have enjoyed a small vacation at a California beach or some other trendy location. The next obstacle you overcame was the start of a new school year. Now, you're gearing up for your first post-divorce holiday season, and certain child custody issues have you worried.

Sometimes, California estate owners die and their estates are administered with no obstacles or problems arising throughout the process. Most often, if this is the case, it's because the estate owners took the time to carefully execute solid plans that included wills, powers of attorney and other key documents that can help prevent stress and avoid confusion down the line when the time comes for their assets to be distributed. Those who die with no final will and testament in place automatically cause their estates to become intestate, meaning their loved ones will have to sit back and wait as the probate court determines how assets (and liabilities) should be dispersed.

Does a California grocery store have a right to close its doors and cease doing business in a community if it so chooses? The answer may not be as cut and dry as one might think. Ongoing real estate disputes in one town are centered on the topic, and all involved are waiting on edge to see how the judge will rule.

Former film studio executive Harvey Weinstein is currently going through a difficult family law situation to which some California readers may relate. The average individual does not have his or her marital problems plastered across news venues, however, which may Weinstein's situation a bit more challenging. As it stands, most people who follow Hollywood news are likely aware that Weinstein's wife of 10 years has decided to seek a divorce.

When people think of estate planning, they automatically think of the will. It’s known for its simplicity: a listing who gets what. Life, of course, isn’t that simple. There are infinite family arrangements. Anyone who has been married more than once or who has children with more than one mother/father knows how complicated arrangements become. Trusts are a more complex form of estate planning with benefits for modern families, including provisions for how your assets are distributed.

Helping children adapt to a new lifestyle after their parents' divorce is often quite challenging in many ways. While there is information based on common experiences from families throughout California and the nation who have navigated the process in the past, a particular family's needs and goals are always unique; so, existing information can be helpful but may not fully resolve a specific problem that arises. When the court issues or approves new parenting plans, it may not work out as all involved expected, especially if one of the parents is not adhering to the court order.

Not every California business owner faces financial challenges at high levels similar to JP Morgan Bank. However, a current business litigation situation between JP Morgan and Old GM (General Motors' predecessor) may be relevant to many business people currently trying to resolve loan payback issues. In this particular case, Old GM says they got the short end of the stick on a recent decision handed down in court.

If you dislike talking about the fact that you're going to die someday, you are no different than many other California residents and others throughout the nation. Some people avoid discussions about their own mortality as much as possible. This hesitation often leads to procrastination toward or all-out avoidance of the estate planning process.

A leader of San Francisco Bay Area Renters' Federation (SFBARF) recently commented on a heated debate that has made its way through the court system several times before finally being resolved. The spokeswoman said although the real estate disputes were unfortunate, it was worth it in the long-run because justice was served. In question during the lengthy process was whether a small business homebuilder should be able to build three new homes on a particular California street.

A woman in another state is the widow of a 9/11 victim. At the time of the terrorist attacks in 2001, she had three young children and recently shared her memories and the many lessons she learned in the aftermath of the national tragedy. A lesson she remembers most has to do with estate planning and, in particular, wills. It applies just as much to California residents as it does to others across the country.

When a house burns down in California, owners may file an insurance claim. If an insurance company attempts to deny a particular claim, it may lead to business litigation, which is what has happened in another state. In this case, it was an entire mansion that burned, three years ago.

In California, many people like to keep up with Hollywood news, such as details regarding the personal lives of their favorite movie stars. For instance, many readers have closely followed current divorce and child custody updates on Brad Pitt's and Angelina Jolie's situation. There's a different family law trend occurring simultaneously, however, that doesn't exclusively pertain to movies stars. It's known as gray divorce and is affecting the lives of many people over age 50.

Even though fall is not officially here yet, the new school year is a time of transition. Kids will develop new routines and relationships as they go back to school. With all the changes that occur, some things should remain constant for the best interests of children. This post will explain some helpful tips to help non-custodial parents maintain structure and stability during the school year while enhancing the bond between parent and child.

It may seem hard to believe, but the wait for college football will soon be over, as we are just a little over a month away from the start of the 2017 season. However, if the August 26 kickoff date still seems too far away, football fans craving some drama right now needn't look any further than U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio.

A few weeks back, we began discussing how those who decide to undertake a dream construction project -- extensive home renovations, building an entirely new home, etc. -- can rapidly see it turn into a nightmare thanks to construction defects.

Never underestimate the power of procrastination. Indeed, you needn't look any further than the un-mowed lawn, the incomplete thank-you notes, the unfinished novel and even the lackluster estate planning efforts for evidence of this phenomenon.

Without question, one of the hardest decisions a person will ever have to make is whether to move ahead with a divorce. Indeed, even if the marriage is anything but happy, there may be other considerations -- both personal and financial -- that cause a spouse to experience some doubt.

As home values continue to increase in the Sacramento area, more people are turning to renovating their homes to cash in on the values that an updated kitchen or bathroom may bring on resale. While renovations may seem quick and easy thanks to the plethora of home renovation shows, a number of pitfalls await a naïve homeowner.

Does Facebook track California residents' or others' online activities even after they've logged out of their Facebook accounts? A District judge says he does not think so, thus dismissing recent business litigation regarding the matter. It is not the first lawsuit of its kind that someone has brought against the social network empire.

The essence of fiduciary duty is that one or more parties is obligated to fulfill a particular duty to another party or parties. The duty is said to be the highest standard of care. If the duty is breached, the party responsible may be held legally accountable for the actions if personal injury has been suffered in the process. In fact, the court ruled as such following recent real estate disputes in a location outside California.

When the decision is made to undertake extensive home renovations or build a new home, it can prove to be something of an emotionally draining experience for the individuals financing these major residential construction projects.

A few weeks back, our blog began discussing how one feature common among most successful business owners is conscientiousness. Specifically, thriving business owners typically do everything in their power to ensure operations run effectively and efficiently, including doing their best to ensure complete compliance with the terms of contracts and executing contracts only with those parties they consider reliable.

A few weeks back, our blog spent some time discussing a groundbreaking decision by the Supreme Court of the United States in TC Heartland v. Kraft Foods Group Brands, which essentially served to end the practice of forum shopping in patent litigation.

As a business owner, you are always willing and able to go the extra mile to ensure the continued success of your enterprise. While this, of course, means everything from making good hires and evaluating product performance to investing in advertising and streamlining processes, it also means doing your best to avoid legal problems.

Last week, our blog spent some time discussing how a 1990 decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit regarding where patent infringement actions may be filed has now resulted in a flood of lawsuits -- many of them dubious in nature -- in jurisdictions known for being sympathetic to plaintiffs.

Nearly three decades ago, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, the Washington D.C.-based patent court, issued a landmark ruling concerning where patent cases may be filed by plaintiffs. Specifically, the 1990 decision held that such suits could be filed anywhere a named defendant has even a minor sales presence.

You are a homeowner. How would you feel if your home in suburbia were settled next to a big industrial building? Say you are the owner of a large factory. How would you feel about having to keep the noise level down so your neighbors could sleep?

Sure, as the song says, Hotel California might be "such a lovely place," but that does not mean that any lovely place can assume the name or essence of "Hotel California." The Eagles' rock song is a classic. Some people might assume that a subject of pop culture that is so well-known and ingrained in our culture is meant for all to enjoy and share. 

A prior post introduced the business law matter of unfair practices and unfair competition in business. In California and nationally, businesses have to abide by certain standards, even if violating the standards might make it easier to sell a product. 

As kids, and even sometimes as grownups, we have to be reminded: "Well, life isn't fair." While most of us have learned the saying is true, what about business? Is business supposed to be fair? 

This post continues a real estate conversation we began in a prior post on our blog. This is the common time of year when people get the itch to either buy or sell property. Therefore, it is timely to discuss real estate law matters that might impact your life. 

California is known as the land of the sun and the sea. Millions live and visit here for the weather alone. It is a beautiful place we live in. Those of us who live in the sunshine during most of the year understand how important an everyday sunscreen routine is. Is drinking your sunscreen a routine you would adopt?

The world of real estate can be equally exciting as it is complicated. Usually when many of us are buying or selling a home, there is some sort of time rush pushing the process along. Despite time limitations, however, it is not okay to disregard the various details of real estate law. 

The lives of the rich and famous might look fantastic and breezy to outsiders; however, they can come with their own sets of troubles. For example, an everyday blue-collar worker might not face lawsuits worth millions of dollars.

It is no surprise to see popular musician Ed Sheeran's name in the news. He has various hits on top of the music charts. He is one of the biggest music stars out there right now. Recently he released new music, and it hasn't taken long for fans not only to love and embrace it, but to cover his new sounds, too. 

For those who pay attention to America’s divorce rate, it is indeed increasing. According to a Fortune.com report, it could be attributable to the greater number of baby boomers who are getting divorced.  Indeed, this may be due to changing views about marriage or economic independence. However, graying divorcees may face challenging financial circumstances after a divorce.

As we promised in a recent post, there is more to be said about intellectual property law and how to utilize it toward the greater good of your ideas. The first bits of advice according to Forbes were to talk to an experienced intellectual property lawyer versus doing your own legal work and to do so early. This early interaction will better inform you of your legal needs and serve to best protect you from potential pitfalls such as copycats.

Are your ideas valuable? It is a matter of opinion, of course, and one idea is likely more valuable than another. For instance, the idea of the internet has more monetary value than, for example, your idea to try a new sweetener in your coffee this morning. 

Have you been injured because of a malfunctioning or defective product? Maybe you have sustained property damage due to a product liability matter. As consumers, we are entitled to a level of safety among the products in our lives. When something goes unreasonably wrong, therefore, we have civil liability rights.

While it is generally healthy to not measure one's life based on the possessions they have, in reality, products we buy and use every day do play a big part in our lives. Products can make life easier, more fun and safer. But what happens when a product causes injury, illness or severe damage?

When there is a death of a loved one, the emotion of that loss can be all-consuming. An already overwhelming time is usually more complicated than being able to wallow in emotions. As people, we leave more than those who love us behind. People leave behind assets. 

In a prior post we began laying out a list of the basic steps that may be taken in the case of a construction defect in California. The simple idea of living in a safe residence can become complicated when there are structural problems or other construction concerns. 

Almost anyone has a favorite movie-goer snack. Maybe you are just a classic popcorn and Cherry Coke lover. Then there are those that have to have some candy to go with their salty treat. While M & Ms are likely a most popular candy choice, there are the standouts among candy lovers who enjoy a good box of Raisinets.

In the past on this blog, we have discussed the legal matter of construction defects in California. A defect can impact the usability and safety of commercial and residential properties. They are a matter of safety but also a matter of business and construction law.

In our past post we began a discussion about the real estate issue of leasing law. The laws of leasing impact people on various levels. There are renters of residential properties and commercial properties. Then, there are the landlords or owners of those properties. 

California is a highly desirable area in which to live. Therefore, it can be smart business for entrepreneurs to invest in real estate. Some people do that by buying residential properties and renting them out.

When you got married, you likely never considered that the marriage wouldn't work. The moments during your wedding maybe were so joyful that you could never imagine you would ever be arguing with your spouse about who should get what and how the kids would be shared after a divorce.

With advancements in technology come benefits for the consumer, but there is also the other side of the business picture. In some cases, there are entrepreneurs who believe they are not getting the income that they deserve.

There is all kind of work out there. There are all kinds of ways to earn a living. Maybe you are not a person who goes into an office from 9 to 5. Maybe you are a creative person -- an idea person -- and your ideas are what will support you and your family.

It is an exciting milestone for anyone in California: moving into a new home. Maybe it is your first house. Maybe it is your forever home in which you envision growing as a family. A lot of emotion and dreaming can go into a home. 

Whether you work for a California corporation or have perhaps started your own company, you know that businesses revolve around one basic thing: contracts. There might be various contracts at-play under the umbrella of a business, but at the simplest levels, contracts tend to be the foundation of business.

Life is rarely simple. Our lives are made up of various entities, people and millions of decisions. Today your life might involve work, home, contracts, a spouse and children.