Category Archives: Business Law

Business Law, Law Firm, Lawyers, Legal Services, Tax Law, Trade Law

Lebowitz Edelman has advised the trustees of Leading Hotel Group’s pension scheme on its purchase of a bulk annuity policy with Leading Life Insurance Company

Leave a comment

The HKD 440m bulk annuity policy insures the defined benefit benefits of the pension scheme.

Lebowitz Edelman pensions partner Dana Cheng said “Lebowitz Edelman worked closely with the pension scheme trustees to strike a deal which provides security for members of the pension scheme while also removing a volatile liability from its balance sheet, and was completed in exceptionally short timetable”.

Sam T. Lai, Chairman of the Trustee of the Hotel Group Pension Plan, said: “The Trustee’s first priority has been to ensure the future security of members’ benefits. The Plan’s strong funding, following additional financial support from its corporate sponsor, prompted consideration of a buy-in/ buy-out of the Plan’s liabilities. Following a comprehensive review of insurance providers, the Trustee chose the Life Insurance Company on a combination of product structure, value-for-money, price certainty and the long-term security it brings as a low risk regulated insurer. All parties worked professionally and collaboratively to agree the final price and terms over a short time, resulting in a great outcome for the members of the Plan.”

This buy-out is part of a continuing trend of pension schemes and their employers going to the insurance market to secure scheme liabilities. Lebowitz Edelman has worked on a number of high profile buy-ins and buy-outs including the buy-out of the Retirement Benefit Scheme and the purchase of a bulk purchase annuity for the Fund to insure pensioner liabilities.

The Lebowitz Edelman team was lead by pension partner Dana Cheng with support from senior associate Jane Chiao, consultant Derek Sloan and associates Joan Gim Gong.

Via EPR Network
More Law press releases

Business Law, Law Firm, Lawyers, Legal Services, Tax Law, Trade Law

Lebowitz Edelman advises Leading Bank and Investment Fund on refinancing and Commercial Mortgage-backed Securities Securitization in the Amount of EUR 406.1 million

Leave a comment

Lebowitz Edelman has advised Leading Bank and Investment Fund as arrangers and lead managers on the refinancing of the securitization by a new CMBS in the amount of EUR 406.1 million.

With this transaction, the volume of European Commercial Mortgage-backed Securities transactions entered into this year has increased to approximately EUR 5.5 billion.

The major part of the new securitization serves to refinance the matured Commercial Mortgage-backed Securities and is secured by a portfolio of Hong Kong multi-family residential property controlled by leading Investments Fund; in addition and subject to certain conditions, it may be used to refinance the real estate portfolio. The issue is split into four classes of notes. The senior class bears interest at a rate of Euribor plus 1.92%. The notes have a term of 8 years, maturing in 2021.

Lebowitz Edelman has advised Leading Bank and Investment Fund across all aspects of the financing and securitization, from the structuring of the transaction, negotiating the loan and CMBS documentation, through to the execution of the new facility agreement and the issue of the Notes.

The Lebowitz Edelman Team was led by partner Matt Law-Yone (capital markets and securitization) and included partners Glen Fee, Dr. Gus Gin (both finance), Dr. Helen Jung (tax, all Hong Kong), Judy Zia (finance, Hong Kong), Dr. Tao Wong (capital markets and securitisation, all Hong Kong.

Another Lebowitz Edelman team amongst Martin Ming (Counsel) supported by Niketa Tahori (Associate) has advised the Security Trustee and the Trustee and Issuer Security Trustee (Hong Kong Trustee Company).

Via EPR Network
More Law press releases

Business Law, Law Firm, Lawyers, Legal Services, Tax Law, Trade Law

Chief Litigation Counsel Matthew Sheng to Leave Lebowitz Edelman

Leave a comment

Lebowitz Edelman announced that Matthew T. Sheng, the Chief Litigation Counsel for the Division of Enforcement, will leave the firm next year.

Mr. Sheng has led the Enforcement Division’s litigation program, managing cases pending both in courts and administrative proceedings at the Commission. The trial unit has 40 attorneys at the Lebowitz Edelman’s Hong Kong headquarters as well as litigators throughout the agency’s offices.

Mr. Sheng served as lead trial counsel in the Lebowitz Edelman’s successful prosecution of Chi Mingus in addition to directly assisting in litigation efforts for several other significant matters. Mr. Sheng also developed and directed the Lebowitz Edelman’s litigation response to significant changes in the securities laws such as the Supreme Court’s decisions.

Last year, Mr. Sheng was the recipient of the Lebowitz Edelman Chairman’s Award for Excellence.

“Matt’s outstanding stewardship of the trial unit and his impressive command of the securities laws have resulted in many favorable outcomes for our litigation program,” said Justin R. Long, Co-Director of the Lebowitz Edelman’s Division of Enforcement. “Matt will leave a legacy of great service to the agency and the investing public, and we wish him every success in the future.”

Mr. Sheng said, “It has been a privilege to lead such a talented and dedicated team of professionals committed to prosecuting wrongdoing in the securities markets. During my time in the Enforcement Division, I have been fortunate to work with great people on significant and challenging matters on behalf of our international clientele.”

Mr. Sheng began his legal career as a law clerk at the Court of Appeals for the Hong Kong Circuit. He then served as a law clerk for then-Chief Justice of the Hong Kong Supreme Court. After his clerkships, Mr. Sheng worked as a litigation associate for a national law firm and later held several positions in the Criminal Division of the Hong Kong Department of Justice, eventually becoming chief of staff to the Assistant Attorney General.

Via EPR Network
More Law press releases

Business Law, Law Firm, Lawyers, Legal Services, Tax Law, Trade Law

Antitrust and Innovation: Pro or Anti-competitive?

Leave a comment

Antitrust and commercial lawyers in private practice, in-house lawyers, enforcement officials and academics will gather in Hong Kong for the 17th annual competition conference, presented by the antitrust committee and supported by the Southeast Asian Forum.

Our antitrust team will play an active part in this year’s conference.

Michael Chang, Southeast Asian Forum’s President and antitrust partner, will introduce the conference. Malese Quan, a partner in our Lebowitz Edelman Hong Kong team, will speak on antitrust and innovation in the first panel, which will examine how antitrust agencies protect and promote innovation and whether the right balance can be struck, between the recognition of pro-competitive benefits of incentives to innovate, and the anti-competitive concerns raised by certain practices, such as in patents and the use of online data.

Vice-President and Southeast Asian Commissioner in charge of Competition, Adam Kwong, is the conference keynote speaker.

Other topics include:

•  Challenges of global merger control – international merger control enforcement: are we still seeking coordination of substance and procedure or do we accept multinational cacophony?

•  Pricing strategies: MFNs, discounts, discrimination

•  Cartels evidentiary standards

•  Views from those who are shaping competition law

•  Case study: antitrust and the music industry – a long and winding road

Malese Quan is widely recognized as a leading lawyer in the innovative TMT sectors according to independent guides. He has advised on a number of precedent-setting merger and behavioral investigations as well as regulatory and antitrust litigation in these sectors. Malese heads Lebowitz Edelman ‘s media sector group. Our global antitrust, intellectual property and TMT groups advise some of the world’s leading technology, media, telecoms and life science companies in relation to their antitrust, regulatory, licensing and litigation strategies.

Via EPR Network
More Law press releases

Business Law, Law Firm, Lawyers, Legal Services, Trade Law

A Major Chinese Eurobond Deal of 2013

Leave a comment

Lebowitz Edelman has closed a major Chinese Eurobond deal of 2013, indicating optimism about the Chinese market.

Lebowitz Edelman had advised a Leading Bank and Investment Trust, as arrangers on the USD7 billion programs for the issuance of Loan Participation Notes by a Capital Investment Company for the purpose of financing loans to open Joint-Stock Company for a Chinese Agricultural Bank, and Leading Bank and Investment Trust. Loan Participation Notes due 2014 were issued as Series 4.

Chinese Agricultural Bank will be a 100% state-owned bank and is one of the leading financial institutions providing lending support to Chinese agribusiness. Today its network of 78 regional branches and over 1,430 additional offices covers the whole territory of the China and is the second largest regional branch network in the country. Chinese Agricultural will rank number four among the largest banks of the Chinese by assets and capital.

Hong Kong capital markets partner Howard Luen Jang commented: “This is an important deal for the Chinese market, given the current environment. The deal also underlines the strength of the Lebowitz Edelman’s Capital Markets team and its ability to provide seamless service across offices and jurisdictions”.

Lebowitz Edelman ‘s Hong Kong team was lead by partner Howard Luen Jang, who was assisted by associates James Jing, Maria Jade Wong and Lisa Ling. Senior associate Alexander Tan and associate Zhou Zong advised on the Chinese securities law matters; partner Matthew Lee and senior associate Jonathan Dang advised on Chinese law matters.

Via EPR Network
More Law press releases

Business Law, Corporate Law, Law Firm, Lawyers, Legal Services

Babson New York Rocket Pitch 2012 Supporter Helps First-time Entrepreneurs

Leave a comment

No other law firm in history has voluntarily waived $500,000 in legal fees and absorbed $100,000 in expenses simply to help 500 first-time entrepreneurs incorporate; but that’s exactly how Jeff Unger, Los Angeles-based attorney and founder of eMinutes, a corporate law firm, spent most of the last 12 months. As of April 2, 2013, Mr. Unger announced he is ready to do it again, this time waiving nearly three-quarters of a million dollars – $725,000 – to help 725 first-time entrepreneurs in California, New York, Texas and the District of Columbia form their businesses for free.

“Today’s do-it-yourself-incorporation mentality and misinformation about business formation being provided by ‘experts’ who have no knowledge of the law is misleading inexperienced entrepreneurs,” said Jeff Unger, attorney and founder of eMinutes. “As a result, they end up with a business entity that may leave them exposed. At eMinutes, we are determined to provide as many first-time entrepreneurs as possible with the right counsel and guidance so their businesses have an honest opportunity to succeed.”

Jean Tsai is obsessed with food quality and she is also one of the 500 first-time entrepreneurs eMinutes helped in Phase I of the entrepreneur program. As an incorrigible lifelong snacker, she searched for a delicious and healthy snack that was made from sustainably grown real food ingredients. Never finding one, she decided to start Pop Karma after working in the corporate world and earning her Master’s Degree in Business Administration at Dartmouth College.

“The expertise eMinutes offers is superior. Like many entrepreneurs, I agonized over whether to be an S-Corp or an LLC, and even thought about incorporating by myself,” said Jean Tsai, founder of Pop Karma. “eMinutes provided exceptional guidance and asked the right questions that helped me decide what entity was right for my business. They made the entire process simple and incredibly fast – it would have taken a much greater investment of personal time on my part if I had done it on my own, and I wouldn’t been as successful.”

In Phase II of its entrepreneur program, eMinutes will waive 100% of its legal fees for eligible first-time entrepreneurs who demonstrate a sincere commitment to building their business, for example, a clearly-defined business plan or an active website. All eligible entrepreneurs must have retained the services of a CPA and agree to pay filing fees.

Christina Eisenstein, founder of Macaroon and one of eMinutes’ first 500 first-time entrepreneurs, fell in love with the French macaroon years ago, and decided to leave the advertising world for sweeter pastures. Although born in the Midwest, she comes from a long lineage of bakers in Paris and is committed to combining her French roots with the American palate. What she didn’t have was knowledge of how to form a business.

“eMinutes saved me money on legal fees that I was able put back into my business. They completed all the paperwork and submitted it quickly, with virtually no effort on my end,” said Eisenstein. “Their attorneys are professional, readily available and eager to help; they are truly champions for entrepreneurs.”

For more information on Phase II of the entrepreneur’s program and eMinutes corporate legal services, visit http://eminutes.com/entrepreneurs or call (310) 820-1000 in Los Angeles, (212) 772-7770 in New York, or (512) 942-1100 in Austin, Texas.

Via EPR Network
More Law press releases

Business Law, Lawyers, Legal Services, Tax Law

Rick Baker, Orlando Consumer Lawyer Announces Availability of Free Tax Preparation Services

Leave a comment

Free Tax Preparation Services — Today Rick Baker, Orlando Consumer Lawyer announced a new program allowing customers to use their tax refunds to file for bankruptcy. Some Orlando consumers are unaware that they can use their tax refunds to file a Bankruptcy case. Rick Baker is offering free 1040 tax return preparation when fees are deducted from the refund toward filing a bankruptcy case.

Now is the perfect time to resolve debt and mortgage issues and Rick Baker, Orlando Consumer Lawyer is here to help. Many of our clients who need bankruptcy protection and relief don’t know that it is allowable to use their tax refunds to fund the cost of filing their bankruptcy case. Here is the truth about tax refunds and bankruptcy.

How Does Bankruptcy Impact Tax Refunds?

Many people contemplating filing for Bankruptcy want to know what happens to their tax refunds. It depends on when the case is filed. At this time of year there are two ways to play it:

Option #1 is to file a 1040 tax return as soon as possible, and then use the refund on the cost of filing a bankruptcy case and/or other necessary living expenses (not on debts or paying back friends and family). Many Orlando consumers need their tax refunds to file their cases and get debt relief. Orlando Bankruptcy Trustees understand this and do allow it.

Option #2 is to file a case and exempt the refund if the case has enough room to also exempt all other assets. The problem with option #2 is that it uses up exemptions that the consumer could use to keep other assets and it only works if they can fully exempt the tax refund and still have other assets protected (exempt) as well. Rick Baker, Orlando Consumer Lawyer determines this on a case-by-case with each client, based on their situation.

Free Tax Preparation Offer

For a limited time, Rick Baker has partnered with the CPAs at YOUNG & HAAS to prepare consumers’ Tax Returns (1040) FREE OF CHARGE, provided that the bankruptcy case fees and costs for the case are deducted from the tax refund. We are offering FREE Tax Return preparation, allowing Orlando consumers to receive a refund within one week! Orlando Consumers needing help with their debts and mortgage can contact Rick Baker, Orlando Consumer Lawyer today for FREE TAX RETURN PREPARATION when the refund is used to file a bankruptcy case. “We will fast track your case and get things moving. I look forward to helping many Orlando consumers through this process and making 2013 the year of the Fresh Start!” said Rick Baker, Orlando Consumer Lawyer.

Founded in 1993, Rick Baker, Orlando Consumer Lawyer is Central Florida’s leader in bankruptcy law. The company serves the Central Florida and seven-county Orlando area, including the cities of Sanford, Lakeland, Lady Lake, Kissimmee, Maitland, Lake Mary, Oviedo, Winter Garden, Winter Park, Windermere, Lake Nona, Apopka, Mount Dora, Winter Springs, Longwood, Orlando, Melbourne, Titusville, Cape Canaveral, Daytona Beach and New Smyrna Beach, and the counties of Orange, Seminole, Lake, Polk, Brevard, Volusia and Osceola.

Via EPR Network
More Law press releases

Administrative, Business Law, Employment Law, Law Firm, Lawyers, Legal Services

Employment Law Reforms Announced to Shake Up the Work Place and Encourage Businesses to Hire Again, reports Thomas Mansfield

Business Secretary Vince Cable has announced reforms to the UK’s employment laws that make it easier for employers to dismiss under-performing employees. The amended laws include settlement agreements which will give employers the opportunity to pay-off under-performing staff to prevent future claims of unfair dismissal. Although workers are not obliged to accept a pay-off, if they do so it will be legally protected and as such cannot be brought up as evidence in a future court case or tribunal.

At the same time, the maximum limit for a pay out for unfair dismissal is being reduced. It currently stands at £72,300, but MPs want this reduced to a maximum of 12 months’ salary. The aim is to encourage employers, particularly small and medium sized firms, to employ more people.

Critics say the proposals only benefit employers and remove rights from workers, but many employers, particularly smaller firms, should find some benefits, including savings of time and resources, and greater security.

Thomas Mansfield, employment solicitors London based, points out these new settlement agreements are pretty much the same as the existing compromise agreement system. Currently employees and employers can come to a specific agreement over a financial pay out from the employer in return for the employee bringing no claims against the employer in the future. Free legal representation is offered as part of this package, and Thomas Mansfield predicts it will be included in the new settlement agreements too.

The UK’s legal system is a confusing one and often beyond the reach of the ordinary worker. Thomas Mansfield is well placed to provide advice, support and representation on matters relating to employment law, including unfair dismissal and employment tribunals. It predicts the new rules are bound to cause further confusion among both employers and employees and advises anyone confused by the new laws to seek out legal advice when necessary.

Via EPR Network
More Law press releases

Administrative, Business Law, Cases, Copyright, Corporate Law, Intellectual Property, Lawyers, Technology

Jury Finds that Escort, Inc. and Beltronics USA, Inc. Infringe Two GPS Radar Detector Patents

On July 3, 2012, a jury found that Escort, Inc. (www.escortradar.com) and Beltronics USA, Inc. (www.beltronics.com) infringed numerous claims in U.S. Patent Nos. RE39,038 and RE40,653. In particular, the jury held that Escort’s Passport 9500i, Passport 9500ix, and Passport iQ radar detectors, together with Beltronics USA’s GX65 radar detectors, directly infringe claims 3, 5, 6, 7, 25, 26, 27, and 28 of U.S. Patent No. RE39,038 (“the ‘038 patent”) and claims 22, 31, 32, 33, 38, and 41 of U.S. Patent No. RE40,653 (“the ‘653 patent”). The jury also found that Escort and Beltronics contributed to the infringement of claims 3, 5, 6, 7, 25, and 28 in the ‘038 patent and claims 22, 24, 31, 32, and 33 in the ‘653 patent. The jury further found that Escort’s Passport 9500ix and Passport iQ radar detectors, together with Beltronics USA’s GX65 radar detectors, infringe claim 24 of the ‘653 patent.

The ‘038 and the ‘653 patents are owned by Hoyt Fleming, an Idaho inventor of 37 U.S. Patents. On March 10, 2009, Mr. Fleming filed a complaint (Case Number 1:09-cv-00105-BLW, United States District Court District of Idaho) alleging that Escort and Beltronics USA infringed the ‘038 and the ‘653 patents. Escort alleged that certain claims of the Fleming patents were invalid because Steven Orr, while working for Cincinnati Microwave, Inc. in 1996, made Fleming’s invention earlier in time than Fleming. On July 3, 2012, after a trial spanning more than two-weeks that included live testimony from Steven Orr, John Kuhn (Escort’s Vice President of Engineering), and John Larson (Escort’s President), the jury refused to invalidate the above claims of the Fleming patents based upon Steven Orr’s alleged prior work.

“I am very happy with the jury’s verdict because the jury held that Escort and Beltronics are infringing two of my patents. I am looking forward to a future trial in which another jury will also find that Escort and Beltronics and many of their retailers, including Best Buy and Amazon.com, are willfully infringing a third of my radar detector patents, U.S. Patent No. RE41,905,” said Mr. Fleming. Mr. Fleming is represented by Mr. Michael S. Dowler ofPark, Vaughan, Fleming, and Dowler LLP in Houston, Texas. Escort and Beltronics USA are represented by Gregory F. Ahrens and Brett A. Schatz and of Wood Herron & Evans in Cincinnati, OH together with Steven B. Andersen of Holland and Hart in Boise, ID.

Via EPR Network
More Law press releases

Business Law, Corporate Law, Employment Law, Law Firm, Lawyers, Legal Services

Atlanta Newspaper Names Kitchens New Cleghorn “2012 Best Law Firm”

Kitchens New Cleghorn, LLC, a firm with a proud history representing diverse family law in Georgia, has been named 2012 Best Law Firm by the GA Voice, an Atlanta-based publication serving thousands of gays and lesbians statewide.

The honor follows two months of reader voting, which deemed KNC the best Atlanta gay lawyers at providing sensitive, effective and inclusive legal representation to the LGBT community.

It is the first year the firm has won the title, beating out two other city firms for the top spot.

“We are honored to be recognized by the Georgia Voice for our law firm’s advocacy on behalf of all families,” said KNC partner Jeff Cleghorn.

Best Atlanta Gay Lawyers Title Part of Annual Series

The honor was part of the publication’s “Best of Atlanta” series. That series lets readers vote for their favorite Atlanta businesses serving the LGBT community with respect and pride.

“With a team of law professionals that is almost unsurpassed, Kitchens New Cleghorn is your top choice. Joyce Kitchens, Randy New and Jeff Cleghorn fight for their clients and causes, including LGBT equality,” the newspaper wrote in its July 5 edition, which announced winners in categories like entertainment and services.

Honor Highlights Atlanta Gay Lawyers’ Commitment to Inclusion

The local recognition underscores the firm’s commitment to promoting tolerance and educating gays and lesbians on their rights in accordance with family law in Georgia. Besides helping many gay and lesbian couples expand their families through adoption, the firm hosted a gay marriage forum in June and an event last fall outlining powers of attorney, second parent adoption and many other legal protections existing for Georgia same-sex couples.

In addition, on Aug. 16, these tireless Atlanta gay lawyers will host an event aimed at cutting suicide rates among gay and lesbian youths.

“Protecting the legal rights of LGBT people and families is a priority of our law firm,” Cleghorn said. “Georgia’s laws are not always hospitable to its LGBT citizens, so it is a privilege to advocate for them.”

Via EPR Network
More Law press releases

Business Law, Corporate Law, Employment Law, Law Firm, Lawyers

Former Judge Joins Kitchens New Cleghorn As Of Counsel

Former Merit Systems Protection Board judge and nationally recognized legal professional Stuart A. Miller has joined the Atlanta law firm of Kitchens New Cleghorn, LLC as Of Counsel, bringing 33 years of extensive experience with federal employment law.

Miller comes to the firm having recently retired as Administrative Judge with the MSPB Atlanta Regional Office, where he served for 21 years. His career also includes positions as Associate Counsel for Personnel and Ethics with the Defense Contract Management Agency and as Labor Counselor with the Department of the Army.

Miller started May 1.

“I chose KNC because of its impeccable reputation for excellence, integrity and fairness in dealing with clients and opposing counsel,” Miller said. “ I was honored to join a firm of consummate professionals.”

Addition Brings Far-Reaching Expertise to Atlanta Law Firm

Miller brings an impressive resume which partners Joyce Kitchens, Randy New and Jeff Cleghorn consider an invaluable addition to the firm.

A former adjunct faculty member of the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps School, in Charlottesville, Va., Miller has specialized in MSPB practice and procedure and made countless presentations on labor law topics. Miller also spent years as a teacher for the National Institute of Trial Advocacy. In addition, for more than a decade, Miller has been the featured speaker at the federal Bar Association’s yearly Labor Law Symposium, in Huntsville, Ala.

“As a former federal judge, Stu Miller brings decades of legal experience to Kitchens New Cleghorn,” said KNC partner Jeff Cleghorn. “Judge Miller is nationally respected for his subject-matter expertise.”

Miller received his law degree in 1978 from the Emory University School of Law and has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland.

Miller Expands Employment Law Capabilities at Atlanta Law Firm

Miller’s extensive federal employment law background is particularly valuable to KNC, which maintains an MSPB and federal employment law branch. In his position as Of Counsel, Miller will work closely with KNC partners and lend his years of experience to resolving cases involving this sophisticated area of law.

With offices in Atlanta, Alpharetta, Athens, Marietta and Lawrenceville, KNC is a comprehensive law resource for central Georgia. For more information about KNC, visithttp://www.gadivorcelitigators.com or http://www.gadivorcelitigators.com/alpharetta.htm.

Via EPR Network
More Law press releases

Administrative, Business Law, Cases, Copyright, Corporate Law, Intellectual Property, Lawyers, Technology

Jury Finds that Escort, Inc. and Beltronics USA, Inc. Infringe Two GPS Radar Detector Patents

On July 3, 2012, a jury found that Escort, Inc. (www.escortradar.com) and Beltronics USA, Inc. (www.beltronics.com) infringed numerous claims in U.S. Patent Nos. RE39,038 and RE40,653. In particular, the jury held that Escort’s Passport 9500i, Passport 9500ix, and Passport iQ radar detectors, together with Beltronics USA’s GX65 radar detectors, directly infringe claims 3, 5, 6, 7, 25, 26, 27, and 28 of U.S. Patent No. RE39,038 (“the ‘038 patent”) and claims 22, 31, 32, 33, 38, and 41 of U.S. Patent No. RE40,653 (“the ‘653 patent”). The jury also found that Escort and Beltronics contributed to the infringement of claims 3, 5, 6, 7, 25, and 28 in the ‘038 patent and claims 22, 24, 31, 32, and 33 in the ‘653 patent. The jury further found that Escort’s Passport 9500ix and Passport iQ radar detectors, together with Beltronics USA’s GX65 radar detectors, infringe claim 24 of the ‘653 patent.

The ‘038 and the ‘653 patents are owned by Hoyt Fleming, an Idaho inventor of 37 U.S. Patents. On March 10, 2009, Mr. Fleming filed a complaint (Case Number 1:09-cv-00105-BLW, United States District Court District of Idaho) alleging that Escort and Beltronics USA infringed the ‘038 and the ‘653 patents. Escort alleged that certain claims of the Fleming patents were invalid because Steven Orr, while working for Cincinnati Microwave, Inc. in 1996, made Fleming’s invention earlier in time than Fleming. On July 3, 2012, after a trial spanning more than two-weeks that included live testimony from Steven Orr, John Kuhn (Escort’s Vice President of Engineering), and John Larson (Escort’s President), the jury refused to invalidate the above claims of the Fleming patents based upon Steven Orr’s alleged prior work.

“I am very happy with the jury’s verdict because the jury held that Escort and Beltronics are infringing two of my patents. I am looking forward to a future trial in which another jury will also find that Escort and Beltronics and many of their retailers, including Best Buy and Amazon.com, are willfully infringing a third of my radar detector patents, U.S. Patent No. RE41,905,” said Mr. Fleming. Mr. Fleming is represented by Mr. Michael S. Dowler ofPark, Vaughan, Fleming, and Dowler LLP in Houston, Texas. Escort and Beltronics USA are represented by Gregory F. Ahrens and Brett A. Schatz and of Wood Herron & Evans in Cincinnati, OH together with Steven B. Andersen of Holland and Hart in Boise, ID.

Via EPR Network
More Law press releases

Administrative, Arbitration, Business Law, Cases, Disputes, Law Firm, Lawyers, Legal Services, Property Law

PLS Secures Law Society Quality Mark

Leave a comment

Cheshire-based law firm PLS Solicitors has been granted membership to the Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS), having been adjudged to have met a number of standards as laid out by the Society.

The CQS was established to provide consumers with a guide of quality for residential home-buying practices, thereby reducing fraud and driving up standards by enabling consumers to make more informed decisions when entering into the conveyance process. Law Society president John Wotton explained that with so many solicitors offering conveyancing services, it can sometimes be difficult for consumers to find a suitable firm.

“CQS improves efficiency with common, consistent standards and service levels and enables consumers to recognise practices that provide a quality residential conveyancing service,” he said. “Buying a home is one of the largest purchases anyone will make in their lifetime, so it is essential that it is done to the highest standard by a solicitor.”

Aashim Dhand, Managing Partner of PLS Solicitors welcomed the development, citing it as evidence to his company’s commitment to providing would-be homebuyers with a consistently high standard of service and helping to ensure that property transactions pass through as smoothly as possible. He also noted the difference quality conveyancing can make to alleviate much of the stress that so often goes with buying property.

Solicitors have to undergo a strict assessment in order to earn CQS accreditation – which is only open to members of the Law Society – and the initiative is backed by bodies including the Council of Mortgage Lenders, the Association of British Insurers, the Legal Ombudsman and the Building Societies Association. Compulsory training, random audits and self-assessments are all essential elements of securing CQS status, and must also undergo annual reviews in order to maintain it.

Via EPR Network
More Law press releases

Administrative, Arbitration, Business Law, Cases, Disputes, Law Firm, Lawyers, Legal Services, Property Law

Cheshire Solicitors Proud To Be Awarded Conveyancing Mark Of Quality

Leave a comment

Hale, Cheshire-based solicitors’ practice PLS Solicitors is proud to announce that it has been granted membership of the Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS).

The scheme is an initiative overseen by The Law Society, the main regulatory body which oversees and enforces standards of practice in all aspects of the legal profession. It is designed to help anyone selling a house to find a conveyancing solicitor who knows their area and whose work they can trust.

The Law Society itself says that the CQS is intended to “create a trusted community which year on year will drive up standards.”

Aashim Dhand, Managing Partner of PLS Solicitors, says his company’s admission to the CQS is an endorsement of the high standards which he and his colleagues in the company’s residential conveyancing department always aim to meet.

“A conveyancing solicitor plays a small, but absolutely vital, part in ensuring that any property transaction is conducted according to prescribed rules,” he said.

“But more importantly, the quality of their work and processes can make a big difference to how smoothly such transactions run.

“While buying property is still considered one of the most stressful things people do in their lives, sympathetic and thorough conveyancing solicitors can do a great deal to guide people through the maze of options associated with any property transaction, including equity release and lease options for purchases of properties with this type of tenure,” Mr Dhand added.

As a company proud of its standing as part of a select network of Manchester solicitors whose services are endorsed by the Law Society, PLS Solicitors is hoping that this approval will be seen as a sign of the trust they can have in getting the best possible service, no matter what the nature of their customers’ property law needs.

Via EPR Network
More Law press releases

Administrative, Arbitration, Business Law, Cases, Disputes, Law Firm, Lawyers, Legal Services, Property Law

PLS Solicitors begins work with Twenty Ten equity fund

Leave a comment

Well-known law firm PLS Solicitors has announced plans to become a preferred supplier for the private equity fund Twenty Ten Capital LLP. PLS Solicitors provides many legal services, including residential conveyancing, compromise agreements and employment law advice.

Twenty Ten works with up-and-coming businesses and helps them to create value, as well as providing support for companies that are facing stressful situations and challenging environments. The company invests in all manner of sectors and has a number of high-profile portfolio companies.

As a supplier for Twenty Ten, PLS Solicitors will work alongside its portfolio companies and will help in providing advice and support in the area of employment law. The solicitors in Manchester will provide guidance with employment handbooks, service contracts and all other employment related issues for Twenty Ten’s businesses.

PLS Solicitors has already started working with one of Twenty Ten’s biggest clients, the Metropolis Group, to great effect.

“We have been impressed with the attitude shown by PLS Solicitors to date,” said Parminder Basran, Managing Partner of Twenty Ten Capital LLP “Our businesses have received good commercial advice on areas of concern so far and we see PLS Solicitors as an integral operational partner for our business going forward.

“Twenty Ten, like PLS Solicitors, are a driven and highly commercial organisation and we are pleased to surround ourselves with likeminded partners.”

Meanwhile, Adam Pavey, Partner at PLS Solicitors, has said: “We are really excited about the prospect of working with Twenty Ten Capital and their businesses. We have found them an extremely savvy and commercially aware fund – they are really going places and we hope as one of their preferred suppliers we can grow with them.

“To be working with high profile companies such as the Metropolis Group really excites us – especially as the companies are based in London and, as you are aware, we are seeking to move into this market next year by opening our first office there.”

To find out more about PLS Solicitors visit www.proplegal.co.uk now. For more information on Twenty Ten Capital visit www.twentytencapital.eu.

Via EPR Network
More Law press releases

Administrative, Business Law, Law Firm, Lawyers, Legal Services, Property Law

Property Legal aids in Manchester Law Society twinning

Leave a comment

Property Legal partner Adam Pavey has aided in the twinning of the Manchester Law Society and the Italian Padua Law Society, with hopes that the two societies will be able to encourage international links.

Manchester and Padua have many similarities, with both cities being cultural and economic centres, and the new twinning agreement has been designed to help young lawyers to train in Manchester and Padua. The agreement will also highlight the many solicitors in Manchester and will allow it to gain more attention.

Adam Pavey, who orchestrated the agreement, said: “We want to create links with business and give Manchester a higher profile in Europe, rather than London taking all the limelight.”

Mr Pavey, an international officer for the Manchester Law Society, explained that though the two cities have very different legal systems, there are high hopes for the agreement.

It is to include an exchange programme between Manchester University and Padua University to help law students and recently qualified lawyers to gain valuable experience. According to the Manchester Law Society, many Italian lawyers have already said they hope to begin work at Manchester firms, with a focus being put on corporate lawyers hoping to deal with international issues.

John Dunn, president of the Manchester Law Society, said: “In these difficult economic times it is all the more important to build ties between countries. We need a strong Europe to help the economic framework that allows people to live in peace and prosper.

The president of the Padua Law Society, Lorenzo Locatelli, said: “I am sure that our work and cooperation can be successful, especially for young lawyers. My hope is that young Italian and English lawyers in our beautiful profession can work together.”

Via EPR Network
More Law press releases

Administrative, Business Law, Cases, Copyright, Corporate Law, Intellectual Property, Lawyers, Technology

Federal Judge Rules that Escort, Inc. and Beltronics USA, Inc. Infringe GPS Radar Detector Patent

Leave a comment

On December 14, 2011, the Chief U.S. District Judge, District of Idaho, ruled that Escort, Inc. (www.escortradar.com) infringed U.S. Patent No. RE39,038. Specifically, the Court ruled that Escort’s Passport 9500i, Passport 9500ix, and Passport iQ radar detectors, together with Beltronics USA’s (www.beltronics.com) GX65 radar detectors, infringe claims 18, 45, 47, and 48 of U.S. Patent No. RE39,038 (“the ‘038 patent”). The Court also granted partial summary judgment of infringement with respect to each of those products regarding ‘038 patent claims 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 25, 26, 27, and 28, and U.S. Patent No. RE40,653 (“the ‘653 patent”) claims 22 and 26. A redacted version of the Court’s 58 page order was unsealed earlier today. A copy of the 58 page order can be obtained at: https://www.yousendit.com/download/T2...

The ‘038 and the ‘653 patents are owned by Hoyt Fleming, an Idaho inventor of 36 U.S. patents. In early 2008, Escort declined to purchase the ‘038 patent. Approximately one year later, on March 10, 2009, Mr. Fleming filed a complaint (Case Number 1:09-cv-00105-BLW, United States District Court District of Idaho) alleging that Escort and Beltronics USA infringed the ‘038 and the ‘653 patents.

Escort alleged that certain claims of the patents were invalid because Steven Orr, working for Escort, invented the same device earlier in time than Fleming. However, on December 14, 2011, the Court denied Escort’s motion to invalidate claims of the Fleming patents based upon Steven Orr’s alleged work for Escort. The Court also denied Escort’s motions to strike Fleming’s expert reports and strike Fleming’s contention that Escort willfully infringes Fleming’s patents.

In contrast to denying Escort’s motions, the Court granted the overwhelming majority of Mr. Fleming’s motions for judgment on Escort’s defenses, including: (1) laches; (2) equitable estoppel; (3) prosecution history estoppel for certain claims; (4) ownership of Mr. Fleming’s patents; (5) inequitable conduct; (6) intervening rights on certain claims; and (7) anticipation of claim 1 in view of a Japanese patent.

In the order the Court stated that Escort’s interpretation of the Court’s rules was“absurd”, that Escort’s arguments were “in fact contrary to law”, and many of Escort’s expert “opinions are irrelevant”.

“I am very happy with the order. The Court ruled that Escort is infringing one of my patents. I am looking forward to a short trial in June so that I can prove that Escort’s infringement is willful and obtain an injunction to stop Escort’s infringement,” said Mr. Fleming.

Mr. Fleming is represented by Mr. Michael S. Dowler of Park, Vaughan, Fleming, and Dowler LLP in Houston, Texas. Escort and Beltronics USA are represented by Brett A. Schatz and Gregory F. Ahrens of Wood Herron & Evans in Cincinnati, OH. The Court has set trial for June 18, 2012 in Boise, ID.

Escort is a portfolio company of Falconhead Capital LLC (http://falconheadcapital.com), an investment firm in New York, New York. David Morros, the Founder and CEO of Falconhead, Zuher Ladak, a partner of Falconhead, and David Yarnell, an Operating Partner of Falconhead, sit on the board of Escort.

Via EPR Network
More Law press releases

Administrative, Business Law, Law Firm, Lawyers, Legal Services, Property Law

Property Legal Solicitors gears up for rebrand

Leave a comment

Commercial and residential property specialist Property Legal Solicitors is to re-brand to PLS Solicitors, following impressive expansion in the years since the firm was first set up in October 2008.

Originally established by Aashim Dhand and Robert Thomas, PLS Solicitors is based in Hale, Greater Manchester, and is well-known for providing clients with a trustworthy and focused service that yields successful results. The upcoming rebrand, which is set for February 2012, will see the solicitors moving towards being known as a full service law firm.

Currently, PLS Solicitors practices property law and is able to lend its services to all aspects of residential and commercial conveyancing, including equity release, remortgaging, property lease options and bridging loans. In July 2011 Adam Pavey joined as the firm’s litigation and employment partner. Aside from rebranding, PLS Solicitors will now being practicing dispute and employment law, with its new services helping clients to claim compensation with regards to redundancy, unfair dismissal and harassment at work.

PLS Solicitors will also offer services for litigation, debt recovery, intellectual property protection, compromise agreements, personal injury claims and work accident compensation, as well as many others. The firm is also happy to provide prospective clients with employment law advice and works throughout the Greater Manchester area.

Aashim Dhand, Managing Partner of PLS Solicitors, said: “Our rebrand will take PLS Solicitors in a new direction and will help us to attract more corporate clients to our ever-growing client book. We also have plans to establish a second office in London by 2013, which we are very confident about.

“We have big plans for PLS Solicitors and are already one of the foremost solicitors in Manchester, but the decision to rebrand will take us much further. At PLS Solicitors we always put the client first and work with them to get the best result, and we know that it is this that will carry us forward in the future.”

To find out more about PLS Solicitors, visit www.proplegal.co.uk now.

Via EPR Network
More Law press releases

Business Law, Corporate Law, Law Firm, Lawyers, Legal Services, Tax Law, Trade Law

Anthony Citrolo Elected Executive Vice President & Director of The Long Island Chapter Of The Accountant/Attorney Networking Group Inc. (AANG)

Leave a comment

It has been announced today that, Anthony Citrolo, CPA, CVA, CMAA, CBI has been elected as the 2012 Executive Vice President and Director of the Long Island Chapter of the Accountant/Attorneys Networking Group Inc. (AANG)

The Accountant/Attorney Networking Group is comprised solely of practicing accountants and practicing attorneys who service multiple clients. The purpose of the group is to facilitate networking between and among attorneys and accountants – two professions that have enormous synergy and potential for cross referrals. AANG offers 12 monthly networking breakfast meetings exclusively for accountants and attorneys. AANG also hosts two major networking cocktail receptions open to all professionals. The organizations’ web site is www.aangny.org

According to Mr. Citrolo a Managing Partner of M&A firm NYBB/Reliance Strategies, “the AANG creates a great platform for Accountants and Attorneys to meet and share information and ideas that can be used to bring cutting edge financial and legal solution to business owners or entrepreneurs engaged in a business sale or acquisition. Further Mr. Citrolo adds, “since Accountants and Attorneys are key players of the deal team that representbusiness buyers and sellers, the coordination of their efforts can result in lowering the fees incurred in the transaction and giving the deal the best chance of being consummated.”

About NYBB/Reliance

NYBB/Reliance Strategies is a full-service Merger & Acquisition firm in Melville, New York assisting companies with up to $50M in revenue to develop an exit strategy or make a targeted acquisition. In addition to M&A and consulting services, NYBB/Reliance offers valuation services in determining both Business and Transaction Values. Anthony can be reached at 631.390.9650 or anthony@nybbinc.com.

Via EPR Network
More Law press releases

Administrative, Business Law, Law Firm, Lawyers, Legal Services, Property Law

Property Legal Helps Ensure Record Entries For Manchester Legal Awards 2012

Leave a comment

Hale-based commercial and residential property law specialist Property Legal has helped to ensure a record number of entries for this year’s Manchester Legal Awards.

It is the first time that Property Legal has submitted an entry and there are strong hopes that the company will be selected to go through to the second round of the competition later this month. From its beginnings trading from the back office of an estate agency, the business has grown into an established and respected law firm with 18 members of staff in just over three years.

Managing partner Aashim Dhand said the speed with which the business has grown has been astonishing and that concentrating on a niche sector and providing a trusted and reliable service to clients has paid dividends.

He said: “We’re thrilled to have entered this year’s competition and everyone at Property Legal is crossing their fingers in the hope that we can progress in the Small Law Firm of the Year category. We have taken a keen interest in the Manchester Legal Awards over the past two years and are very excited to be taking part.

“The competition will no doubt be extremely strong once again from solicitors in Manchester, but hopefully the judges will be impressed by the growth Property Legal has enjoyed since being established just over three years ago. Setting up at the end of 2008 when the global recession really began to kick in was extremely tough, but hard work has seen the business prosper.”

Nominations for the awards have now closed and the competition judges are busy deciding which entries will make it through to the final shortlist. The companies that have been selected to proceed to the second round will be announced on December 22. Shortlisted firms will be interviewed in late January, ahead of the awards ceremony which is due to be held at Manchester’s Midland Hotel on March 1.

Via EPR Network
More Law press releases