"BULLY" DIRECTOR/WRITER SERVED AS KEYNOTE SPEAKER! Lee Hirsch, "Bully" Director/Producer/Cinematographer/Writer, also Joined the Panel for Questions Is your educational institution prepared to deal with incidents associated with sexual harassment, sexual assault and bullying (including cyber-bullying)? The media has recently covered several shocking incidents around the country, as well as the controversial release of the documentary "Bully." In response to this, WRM America financed this one day conference to help educational institutions. The event was designed for principals, managers, administrators and board members of schools and colleges, to make them aware of the necessary precautions to protect their campuses, as well as what the law demands of them. Those who attended walked away with a better understanding of the law, the insurance coverage needed, and what steps to take if an incident is reported. As keynote speaker, "Bully" director/producer/cinematographer/writer Lee Hirsch offered an invaluable perspective, and provided proactive advice for educational institutions, based on his own experience as a victim of bullying, the creation of his heartbreaking documentary, and his goal to see schools involved in the prevention of bullying, by equipping them with the proper tools. He also discussed the importance of viewing this documentary within your institution (an edited PG-13 version of the film was released on April 13), using it as an educational tool to encourage discussion, and making sure children and parents understand its critical messages.Venue:600 Townsend Building 600 Townsend Street, Suite 110W San Francisco, CA 94103Sponsors: WRM AmericaMorris Polich & Purdy LLP
MPP partner Douglas Wood co-presented this session at the PLRB/LIRB Claims Conference on both April 16 at 3:30PM, and April 17 at 10:30AM. The conference was held in Orlando, FL.Description:
In these difficult economic times, ensuring that you receive compensation for the services provided on a construction project is paramount. In the design and construction industry, a mechanic’s lien and stop notice can be powerful legal tools to obtain payment. However, California law will be significantly revised, commencing on July 1, 2012.
This seminar provided a solid understanding of these changes, including:
Presented by: D. Creighton Sebra, Esq.Theodore D. Levin, Esq., P.E.
Audience:This complimentary seminar provided useful insight for any design professional in the construction industry, including architects, engineers, designers, and land surveyors.
In these difficult economic times, ensuring that your Project is adequately protected from potential mechanic’s lien and stop notice claims is paramount. In the construction industry, a mechanic’s lien and stop notice can be powerful legal tools for subcontractors, suppliers, and contractors to obtain payment. However, a solid understanding of the lien and stop notice processes is necessary to ensure minimal impact to the Project.
This seminar provided a solid understanding of the significant changes to California law in 2012, and what will now be required for claimants to enforce a valid mechanic’s lien and stop notice, including:
Presented by: D. Creighton Sebra, Esq.
Audience:This complimentary seminar provided useful insight for any owner or developer in the construction industry.
In these difficult economic times, ensuring that you receive compensation for your work and labor provided on a construction project is paramount. In the construction industry, a mechanic’s lien and stop notice can be powerful legal tools to obtain payment. However, California law will be significantly revised, commencing on July 1, 2012.
Audience:This complimentary seminar provided useful insight for any professional in the construction industry, including general contractors, subcontractors, and material and equipment suppliers.
MPP partner Penelope Deihl co-presented this topic at the Claims & Litigation Management Alliance (CLM) 2012 Annual Conference, held in San Diego, CA. Her session took place on Thursday, March 29 at 9:50AM.Description: Do you want to outsmart your opponent at mediation? Learn new trends in mediation and the psychology of negotiation.
MPP partner Jens Koepke was co-moderator of the Judges' panel discussion at Judges' Night 2012, held at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles. Jens served as the representative from the Judge Paul R. Michel Intellectual Property American Inn of Court, a co-host of this event.
MPP partner Stephen Huchting presented this topic to the California Association of Independent Insurance Adjusters on March 23, 2012.
Presented by: D. Creighton Sebra, Esq. Brian S. Ginter, Esq.
MPP attorneys Christian Carrillo and Derek Simpson led a seminar on this topic for the Construction Management Association of America, Southern California Chapter, held in Long Beach, CA.Discussion topics included:
MPP partner Mehrdad Farivar presented this topic to the AIA Los Angeles Practice Committee on Friday, March 16, 2012, from 8:00-9:30 A.M.Description: In this one-hour presentation AIA|LA Practice Committee’s Vice-Chair attorney/architect Mehrdad Farivar, FAIA, Esq. will highlight the promises and challenges of BIM, and will compare the BIM methodologies and processes formulated by the AIA and the AGC in their form contracts. Attendees will be encouraged to share their experience and their thoughts on the use of BIM and its potential in shaping the future of design and construction.
MPP partner Douglas Wood co-presented this session at the 2012 Combined Claims Conference (CCC), being held in Long Beach, CA.Description: The insurance claims professional's responsibilities extend beyond the technical ability to resolve issues of coverage, liability and damages. The process of investigation, evaluation and resolution is one that relies on good judgment to discharge their contractual responsibilities to their customers. This workshop is designed to provide thoughtful dialogue among claims professionals to provide some tools and perspective. It is not designed to "teach or preach." It provides some "real world" claims examples and allows for the participants to discuss and evaluate the competing interests and pressures that exist in our business.
MPP partner Beth Kahn presented this topic at The Western Regional Canon Law Convention and The Eighth Annual Archdiocese of Los Angeles Spirit and Law Convention, held in Las Vegas. Description: 2012 brings new responsibilities and obligations for employers. It is important for California employers to understand how to comply with them. This seminar will outline many of these new laws and recent cases and provide tips for handling these new requirements.
Presented by: D. Creighton Sebra, Esq. Shawn E. Cowles, Esq.
Audience: This complimentary seminar provided useful insight for any owner or developer in the construction industry as well as design professionals including architects, engineers, designers, and land surveyors.
MPP partner Jens Koepke's team in The Judge Paul R. Michel Intellectual Property American Inn of Court presented a panel discussion on this topic on Tuesday, February 28, 2012.
MPP managing partner Don Ridge discussed this topic at an in-house presentation for an insurance company in Zurich, Switzerland.
MPP partner Douglas Wood presented this session at the Insurance Committee for Arson Control (ICAC) 23rd Annual Arson & Fire Investigation Seminar, held in Las Vegas.Description: Insurance Companies and Public Agencies have very different responsibilities and goals, yet both frequently must share a common loss scene, evidence, witnesses, and the like. This course will explore how public agencies and insurance carriers can most effectively cooperate with each other to maximize the probability of uncovering (and being able to prove) the Truth, while guarding against later false claims of inappropriate conspiracy against the insured.
2012 brings new responsibilities and obligations for employers. Several employment-related bills were signed into law by Governor Jerry Brown, many of which include new requirements, and it is important for California employers to understand how to comply with them. In order to help protect employers against liability, Morris Polich & Purdy LLP crafted an employment seminar that outlined the new and changing laws of which California employers need to be aware, and provided tips for handling these new requirements. Our speakers are employment attorneys who specialize in advising employers. Topics covered included:
Audience: This seminar provides an insight that is ideal for business owners, senior management and human resources professionals in all types of businesses, as well as attorneys.
MPP partner Jens Koepke co-presented this CEB seminar on Saturday, January 28, from 9:00AM - 12:15PM at the Sheraton in downtown Los Angeles.Description: Seasoned litigators, among some of the most well known and respected in their practice areas, will analyze and discuss the important issues decided in the past 12 months, giving you the strategic edge as you wind your way from initial pleadings to final resolution.
MPP partner Dean Olson co-presented this topic at the American Conference Institute's 12th Annual Advanced Forum on Asbestos Claims and Litigation, held in Philadelphia, PA.Description:
MPP partner Theodore Levin presented this topic at an i2i seminar entitled "Performance Driven Solutions for Environmental Sustainability" from 10:30 - 11:00am on Wednesday, January 25, 2012.
MPP partner Craig G. Kline presented this topic for a LawReviewCle seminar at the Sheraton Anaheim Hotel, Anaheim, California.Description: Disputed insurance claims are often complex, and can vary greatly from case to case. This seminar is designed to give you the tools to understand the variety of claims, accurately assess coverage and solve any conflicts that arise during litigation.
MPP partner David Brandon co-presented this topic on Thursday, December 15 at the DRI Professional Liability Seminar in New York, New York. Description: Professional liability policies have provisions that make them unique in the industry, including burning limits, consent provisions and "hammer" clauses. When Cumis/Peppers counsel get involved, things can become even more complicated. Who controls the defense? What should the insured client be told? Who should do the telling? When should these decisions be made? Our distinguished panel of chaos managers will guide you through the maze of practical and ethical issues that arise in these situations and explore ways to protect the insurer, the attorneys and the insured clients.
MPP partner Mehrdad Farivar presented this topic for the AIA Los Angeles Practice Committee.Description: The AIA Contract Documents are designed to address the full spectrum of design and construction projects - large and small. Don't miss this opportunity to learn more about using these documents that maintain high standards that reflect current industry practices. The talk will cover a brief history of the AIA Documents, the drafting process, range and organization of the current AIA Documents, and a review of the evolution of the Owner-Architect agreement forms.
Designed for principals, managers, administrators and board members of schools and colleges, this one-day event explored how the topics of sexual harassment and sexual assault relate to schools and colleges. The goal of this conference was to raise awareness of both topics, and provide valuable information on what educational institutions need to do in order to prevent and deal with situations as they arise. Attendees heard from experts in the industry who included a District Attorney, a clinical social worker, a media expert, and lawyers who provided a mixture of legal and practical guidelines for understanding, preventing and responding to sexual harassment and sexual assault in the context of educational institutions.
MPP partner Jeffrey Barron co-presented this session with Robert Burkholder, Divisional Vice President - Claims, Environmental Division, of Great American Insurance Group, at the 2011 IRMI Construction Risk Conference in San Diego.Description: A potential pollution incident often results in a frantic search for answers: Are we responsible? How do we keep the project on track? Do we have coverage for something like this? Even the best-run companies face the risk of an environmental incident. This workshop will discuss several contractor-related environmental claim scenarios and offer suggestions for how best to navigate the claim through the insurance company’s claims department. Two industry claims veterans will discuss how to avoid pitfalls in the environmental claims-handling process and provide insights into claims-related legalese and documents.
On November 9, 2011, MPP partner Beth Kahn appeared on NBC's Nonstop News LA, where she was interviewed by Colleen Williams on the topic of sexual harassment and sexual assault in educational institutions. During the interview, Beth commented on a new 47-page report which surveyed 2000 students.
To view the video, click HERE.
MPP attorneys Christian Carrillo and Derek Simpson presented this topic at the 2011 CMAA National Conference in Washington, DC, at 9:00 AM on Tuesday, November 8. Description: Construction managers distinguish themselves by guiding a project through completion and avoiding unanticipated claims and protracted litigation. This session's panelists will share their boots-on-the-ground experience in the construction, insurance claims, and litigation fields, to provide tips and strategies for avoiding traps for the unwary and minimizing the risk of unexpected claims and litigation.
MPP partner Scott A. Freedman presented this topic on Friday, October 21, 2011 from 4:00 - 5:15 PM at ACEC's 2011 Fall Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada. Description: In this session, Scott Freedman discussed the do's and don'ts in the ever-changing world of social media technology in order to avoid legal issues and prevent lawsuits. Several recent cases revolving around employees’ use of social media have been filed which may be precedent-setting. As more cases of this type inevitably arise, it will become increasingly important for employers, managers, supervisors and project managers to understand how developments in social media can affect employment law.
MPP partner Scott Freedman presented this webinar to clients of Marsh, Inc., an insurance broker and risk adviser. Description: In this webinar, we discussed the do's and don'ts in the ever-changing world of social media technology in order to avoid legal issues and prevent lawsuits. Several recent cases revolving around employees’ use of social media have been filed which may be precedent-setting. As more cases of this type inevitably arise, it will become increasingly important for employers, managers and attorneys to understand how developments in social media can affect employment law.
In these difficult economic times, ensuring that your Project is adequately protected from potential mechanic’s lien and stop notice claims is paramount. In the construction industry, a mechanic’s lien and stop notice can be powerful legal tools for subcontractors, suppliers, and contractors to obtain payment. However, a solid understanding of the lien and stop notice processes is necessary to ensure minimal impact to the Project. In this seminar we explained the procedures required for claimants to enforce a valid mechanic’s lien and stop notice, including the necessary prerequisites, proper recording, the perfection process, and recent changes to California Civil Code that can affect the validity of a lien or stop notice. Also, we discussed methods and procedures for owners and developers to minimize the effect of such claims, as well as preventive measures to implement to ensure the Project is devoid of claims. Finally, we also discussed other remedies that are available, including payment and performance bonds, and additional strategies a claimant can implement to ensure that your Project is not burdened by these procedures.This seminar provided useful insight for any owner or developer in the construction industry.
In these difficult economic times, ensuring that you receive compensation for the services provided on a construction project is paramount. In the design and construction industry, a mechanic’s lien and stop notice can be powerful legal tools to obtain payment. However, a solid understanding of the lien and stop notice processes is necessary to make sure that each step is completed correctly and within the narrow time period allowed by law. In this seminar we walked through the California mechanic’s lien and stop notice processes, including preparing and serving the necessary prerequisites, proper recording, and the perfection process, as well as recent changes to California Civil Code that can affect the validity of your lien or stop notice. We also discussed other remedies that are available, including payment and performance bonds, design professional liens and additional strategies your business can implement to ensure timely compensation.This seminar provided useful insight for any design professional in the construction industry, including architects, engineers, designers, and land surveyors.
In these difficult economic times, ensuring that you receive compensation for your work and labor provided on a construction project is paramount. In the construction industry, a mechanic’s lien and stop notice can be powerful legal tools to obtain payment. However, a solid understanding of the lien and stop notice processes is necessary to make sure that each step is completed correctly and within the narrow time period allowed by law. In this seminar we walked through the California mechanic’s lien and stop notice processes, including preparing and serving the necessary prerequisites, proper recording, and the perfection process, as well as recent changes to California Civil Code that can affect the validity of your lien or stop notice. We also discussed other remedies that are available, including payment and performance bonds, and additional strategies your business can implement to ensure timely compensation.This seminar provided useful insight for any professional in the construction industry, including general contractors, subcontractors, and material and equipment suppliers.
Employment case law is constantly changing – don’t get left behind. This informative seminar brings you up to speed, and addresses the latest changes in employment law that impact employers. For example, we discussed the Wal-Mart case and the effect it will have on class actions, the status of the Brinker case and where we are on wage and hour claims in California, as well as other recent employment laws impacting employers.
This seminar provided an overview of the impact of the new laws and regulations affecting common-interest communities. Presented by Tracy Gallegos and Danielle Kolkoski of Morris Polich & Purdy LLP, in conjunction with Pinnacle Community Association Management. This seminar was provided especially for the community association managers and other staff of Pinnacle Community Association Management as well as the board members of the common-interest communities managed by Pinnacle.
This seminar provided an overview of the impact of the new laws and regulations affecting common-interest communities.Presented by Tracy Gallegos and Danielle Kolkoski of Morris Polich & Purdy LLP, in conjunction with Excellence Community Management.This seminar was provided especially for the community association managers and other staff of Excellence Community Management, LLC, as well as the board members of the common-interest communities managed by Excellence.
In these difficult economic times, ensuring that you receive compensation for the services provided on a construction project is paramount. In the design and construction industry, a mechanic’s lien and stop notice can be powerful legal tools to obtain payment. However, a solid understanding of the lien and stop notice processes is necessary to make sure that each step is completed correctly and within the narrow time period allowed by law. In this seminar we will walk you through the California mechanic’s lien and stop notice processes, including preparing and serving the necessary prerequisites, proper recording, and the perfection process, as well as recent changes to California Civil Code that can affect the validity of your lien or stop notice. We will also discuss other remedies that are available, including payment and performance bonds, design professional liens and additional strategies your business can implement to ensure timely compensation.This seminar will provide useful insight for any design professional in the construction industry, including architects, engineers, designers, and land surveyors.
In these difficult economic times, ensuring that you receive compensation for your work and labor provided on a construction project is paramount. In the construction industry, a mechanic’s lien and stop notice can be powerful legal tools to obtain payment. However, a solid understanding of the lien and stop notice processes is necessary to make sure that each step is completed correctly and within the narrow time period allowed by law. In this seminar we will walk you through the California mechanic’s lien and stop notice processes, including preparing and serving the necessary prerequisites, proper recording, and the perfection process, as well as recent changes to California Civil Code that can affect the validity of your lien or stop notice. We will also discuss other remedies that are available, including payment and performance bonds, and additional strategies your business can implement to ensure timely compensation. This seminar will provide useful insight for any professional in the construction industry, including general contractors, subcontractors, and material and equipment suppliers.
MPP partner William B. Kirshenbaum presented this topic on Friday, June 17 at the ZweigWhite Mergers & Acquisitions Summit in Las Vegas. The presentation focused on the unique conditions and challenges faced by a professional service firm in acquisition transactions when it comes to identifying assets, liabilities, contracts and employment matters.
This topic was presented to the AIA Los Angeles Practice Committee, and was designed to give the busy firm principal or project director a quick introduction on how to negotiate better deals, manage risk more prudently, and avoid liability, by approaching Owner-Architect contracts in the right way.Description: Whether you are preparing, reviewing or negotiating an Owner-Architect contract, what you learn in this presentation will help you, and may protect you from the hazards of a misunderstood or poorly written contract. It will highlight basic issues such as "Basis for the Compensation of the Architect," "Additional Services," "Insurance Requirements, "Indemnification," "Termination," "Assignment," "Copyright," "Dispute Resolution," and many other topics.Presented by Mehrdad Farivar Esq., FAIA, a former practicing architect with over twenty years of experience in the practice of architecture, and a current practicing attorney and partner in the law firm of Morris Polich & Purdy LLP, in Los Angeles and San Francisco. Mr. Farivar specializes in the representation of architects and other design professionals both in contract review and negotiation, and in litigation, arbitration and mediation.
MPP partners Theodore Levin, P.E. and Creighton Sebra presented this topic at the AEC Technology Strategies 2011 Conference, held at the Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines, La Jolla, CA.Description: As technology advances at a rapid pace, legal issues relating to copyright violations, trademark issues, the use of Facebook and other on-line social media, as well the use of internet-related content become increasingly prevalent. Failure to understand the legal ramifications related to technology can lead to disputes and litigation. This discussion will include legal issues and potential liability related to the use of technology in the design and construction phases of the building process. It will also incorporate a discussion of IPD, BIM, Green Building Design, and other related technological processes and the potential pitfalls and legal consequences related thereto.
MPP partner David L. Brandon presented this topic to the Orange County Bar Association's Construction Law Section on June 1, 2011.The presentation covered:
In this complimentary seminar, MPP partner Scott A. Freedman discussed the do's and don'ts in the ever-changing world of social media technology in order to avoid legal issues and prevent lawsuits. Several recent cases revolving around employees’ use of social media have been filed which may be precedent-setting. As more cases of this type inevitably arise, it will become increasingly important for employers, managers and attorneys to understand how developments in social media can affect employment law.
In these difficult economic times, ensuring that you receive compensation for your product or service is paramount. In the Nevada construction industry, mechanic’s liens are a good way to make sure this happens. The mechanic’s lien can be a powerful legal tool, but a solid background in the process is necessary to make sure that each step is completed correctly, and within the narrow time period allowed. In this complimentary seminar, MPP attorneys Robert Domico and Brian Walters walked through the basics of Nevada’s Mechanic’s Lien Statute. They also outlined the mechanic’s lien perfection process, taking your lien to court, as well as other considerations.
MPP partner Douglas K. Wood co-presented this workshop/presentation at the NCFIA 22nd Annual Anti-Fraud Training Conference on Wednesday, April 20, at 3:15 PM. The conference was held at the Hyatt Regency Monterey, in Monterey, CA.Description: Observe how an objective investigation, evaluation and resolution of a claim can be attacked as biased when the lifestyle of the insured soils the investigator’s perspective. Learn how to document information so that professionals can articulate their findings in a dispassionate manner.
MPP partner Douglas K. Wood co-presented this session at the PLRB/LIRB 2011 Claims Conference on Tuesday, April 5, from 3:30 - 5:00 PM. The conference was held at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel & Conference Center in Nashville, TN.Description:
MPP partner Douglas K. Wood co-presented this session at the PLRB/LIRB 2011 Claims Conference on Monday, April 4, from 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM. The conference was held at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel & Conference Center in Nashville, TN.Description:
MPP partner Douglas K. Wood co-presented this workshop at the 2011 Combined Claims Conference on Wednesday, March 30, from 9:00 - 10:00 AM, held this year at the Long Beach Convention Center.Description: Please join these experienced SIU veterans as they share battle tested insights into effective SIU claim investigation and management. They will explore "best practices" regarding a number of common SIU challenge areas including: the “Innocent Co-Insured”, interactions with law enforcement – traps for the unwary, arson and fraud reporting landmines, common reservation of rights pitfalls, Authorization "gotcha’s", the agent – friend or foe, and how to effectively prevent and respond to “bad faith set-up” attempts. You will take away numerous practical tips to help you effectively manage the many difficult issues that SIU claims frequently present.
In this educational seminar, specifically designed for NAPSO (Nevada Association of Public Safety Officers), MPP partner Scott A. Freedman discussed the do's and don'ts in the ever-changing world of social media technology as it relates to law enforcement, in order to avoid becoming involved in legal issues. Several recent cases revolving around employees’ use of social media have been filed which may be precedent-setting. As more cases of this type inevitably arise, it will become increasingly important for public safety officers, as employees, to be cautious in their use of social media, both at work and at home.
MPP attorneys Derek Simpson and Christian Carrillo presented this topic on Thursday, March 10, 2011 from 8:00 - 10:30 a.m. at a Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) legal seminar, held at The Grand Conference Center, Long Beach, CA. Description: This presentation will provide a guide on what can be done by the owner, design professionals, and contractors when specified products are substituted with others. Any time a product is substituted for one called for by the contract documents, the risk arises that the owner will not get what it paid for, that the product is not substantially equivalent to the one specified, that construction problems will arise, and that claims and litigation will result. This seminar explains what can be done to avoid disputes. Performance specifications are another way owners seek to ensure they get what they paid for. This presentation will discuss ways the project participants can specify and comply with clear and appropriate performance specifications.
MPP partner Craig Kline was a speaker in this CLE Breakout Session at the ABA Section of Litigation's Insurance Coverage Litigation Committee CLE Seminar from 9:05 - 10:05 AM on Saturday, March 5, at the Westin La Paloma in Tucson, AZ. Description: Insurance coverage litigators will eventually confront a situation where someone is seeking discovery relating to a confidential insurance settlement agreement. The panel will present ideas from both perspectives—how to protect a confidential agreement from disclosure and how to obtain discovery of someone else’s confidential settlement agreement.
For more information, click HERE.
MPP partner Beth Kahn was a speaker on this panel at the ABA Section of Litigation's Insurance Coverage Litigation Committee CLE Seminar from 12:35 - 2:00 PM on Friday, March 4, at the Westin La Paloma in Tucson, AZ.
MPP partner Theodore D. Levin, P.E. co-presented, with Colleen M. Palmer, Esq. of Beazley Insurance Company and Jeffrey Goldsmith, Esq., General Counsel for Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP, an online risk management discussion on this topic to Beazley’s Architects & Engineers professional liability clients and their respective brokers. The discussion highlighted valuable techniques, and what the future holds, for projects incorporating sustainable design.
MPP Partner Jeffrey H. Belote discussed this topic as a guest speaker on a San Francisco radio program on Wednesday, February 23. Listeners tuned in from 7:00 - 8:00 PM to the San Francisco Bay area's KALW 91.7 FM, or listened online at www.kalw.org.
MPP attorney Jens B. Koepke led a team presenting a thought-provoking skit on trademark and copyright law at a meeting of the Intellectual Property American Inn of Court. The event took place on February 15, 2011 from 6:30 - 7:30 PM at the Kyoto Grand Hotel in Los Angeles.
MPP attorneys Theodore D. Levin, P.E. and Ben J. Galante presented this topic to the AIA|LA Practice Committee.Description: On January 1, 2011, the California Building Standards Commission (BSC) unanimously adopted the mandatory Green Building Standards Code (CALGREEN). This mandatory code, which is the first of its kind in the United States, requires all new buildings in California to be more energy efficient and environmentally responsible. In this presentation, Mr. Levin and Mr. Galante will discuss the legal issues and implications of this new code requirement, and how it may affect your practice. They will also discuss important risk management techniques and principles for sustainable design projects.
One-hour seminar on Integrated Project Delivery for underwriters and claims specialists, covering:
MPP partner Mehrdad Farivar, FAIA presented this seminar in the Old Library at Lloyd's.
MPP Partner David J. Vendler discussed this topic as a panelist at 9:00am on Saturday, January 29, 2011 at the ABA Environmental, Mass Torts and Products Liability Litigation Committees' Joint CLE Seminar, held at The Silvertree Hotel in Snowmass, CO.Description: This program will address the impact of the Class Action Fairness Act on the conduct of class action litigation since its enactment in 2005. As part of this presentation, panelists will provide an update on significant recent cases, as well as emerging issues that are the subject of current litigation.To view the official seminar program, please click HERE.
MPP attorney Jens B. Koepke hosted a CEB panel on this topic, which was a look-back at some of the notable appellate cases of 2010 that relate to civil litigation. The panel took place at the Wilshire Grand Los Angeles from 9:00 AM - 12:15 PM.
MPP partner David L. Brandon presented this topic to the Orange County Bar Association's Insurance Law Section on January 28, 2011.
In this complimentary seminar, MPP partner Scott A. Freedman discussed the do's and don'ts in the ever-changing world of social media technology in order to avoid legal issues. A recent case filed in Connecticut, in which a woman was terminated after posting critical remarks about her supervisor on Facebook, may be precedent-setting, as this is the first case in this evolving area. As more cases of this type inevitably arise, it will become increasingly important for employers, managers and attorneys to understand how developments in social media can affect employment law.
MPP Partner Jeffrey H. Belote was a guest speaker on San Francisco's KALW FM 91.7 "Call a Lawyer Night," where he discussed disclosure duties that a seller has to a buyer in a California residential sale.
Thursday, December 9, 2010 5:30pm - 8:30pm MPP’s Los Angeles Office The evening included:
In this complimentary seminar, MPP partner Scott A. Freedman discussed the do's and don'ts in the ever-changing world of social media technology in order to avoid legal issues. A recent case filed in Connecticut, in which a woman was terminated after posting critical remarks about her supervisor on Facebook, may be precedent-setting, as this is the first case in this evolving area. As more cases of this type inevitably arise, it will become increasingly important for employers and managers to understand how developments in social media can affect employment law.
MPP partner David L. Brandon discussed this topic in the DRI Professional Liability Committee's first ever Webcast on Tuesday, November 2, 2010.
Description: Claims arising under burning limits policies create unique issues for insurance professionals and defense counsel. Who controls the defense? What should an insured client be told? Who should do the telling? When should these decisions be made? In this webcast, you will hear perspectives from individuals representing three parts of the claims process - an insurance claims professional, a coverage attorney and a defense lawyer. They will discuss the practical and ethical issues that arise in these situations and explore ways to protect the insurers, the attorneys and the insured clients.
This Webcast has been approved for CLE credit.
Recently, the California Building Standards Commission (BSC) unanimously adopted the mandatory Green Building Standards Code (CALGREEN). The mandatory code, which is the first in the United States, and takes effect on January 1, 2011, requires all new buildings in California to be more energy efficient and environmentally responsible. Upon passing state building inspection, California’s property owners will have the ability to label their facilities as CALGREEN compliant without using additional costly third-party certification, such as the LEED ("Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design") program. With the advent of CALGREEN, California continues to pave the way in energy efficiency and environmental protection. California’s pioneering law will most likely lead to other states adopting the same or similar standards or potentially even implementation of a national standard.
MPP partner Theodore D. Levin, P.E. presented a seminar on this topic in the Old Library at Lloyd's.
MPP attorney Karen M. Firstenberg presented a session on this topic from 7:30 – 9:30AM on Friday, October 22 at the DRI 2010 Annual Meeting, held this year at the San Diego Marriott Hotel & Marina.
Description: The Medicare Recovery Act now requires attorneys, insurers and self-insureds to report claims for which Medicare may have provided benefits to claimants. This act imposes financial penalties for noncompliance. This session will outline the reporting requirements under the act and will provide an update on how courts across the country have dealt with these requirements.
Skilled nursing facilities need to be aware that the upcoming changes to the MDS not only have clinical applications, but legal implications as well. In many instances, the changes to the MDS are filled with “gotcha” situations, and read like a plaintiff’s outline for building a solid civil claim. In this complimentary seminar, we provided tips on building the proper clinical foundation for approaching the new MDS that will help mitigate the legal concerns.Presented by: Kathy Hurst, RN, MSN, JD, and Eugenia Liu, JD Location/Date: San Francisco – Wednesday, October 20, 2010 Course Credits: Attendees of this seminar will be eligible for MCLE or CEU credit
MPP Partners D. Creighton Sebra and Nicholas M. Wieczorek presented this topic on Tuesday, October 19, 2010 from 3:45 - 5:00 PM at ACEC's 2010 Fall Conference in Las Corabas, Puerto Rico.
Skilled nursing facilities need to be aware that the upcoming changes to the MDS not only have clinical applications, but legal implications as well. In many instances, the changes to the MDS are filled with “gotcha” situations, and read like a plaintiff’s outline for building a solid civil claim. In this complimentary seminar, we provided tips on building the proper clinical foundation for approaching the new MDS that will help mitigate the legal concerns.
Presented by: Kathy Hurst, RN, MSN, JD, and Eugenia Liu, JD Location/Date: Los Angeles – Wednesday, September 29, 2010Course Credits: Attendees of this seminar will be eligible for MCLE or CEU credit
MPP partners Marilyn Muir Jager and Matthew Marshall presented this topic to the IEEE San Fernando Valley Section Professional Activities Committees for Engineers (PACE) from 6:30 - 8:30 P.M. on September 29, 2010.
Description: This presentation will discuss the basics of what you need to know regarding product liability lawsuits brought against your companies. It will discuss common product identification and tracing issues, documentation and verification issues, and potential pitfalls in discovery and depositions.
Learn to know and recognize:
MPP partner Jeffrey H. Belote co-presented on this topic at the 24th Annual Levy, Erlanger & Co. Conference from 2:00 to 4:00PM on Friday, September 24, 2010.
The program included demonstration of Ansul commercial fire extinguishing system failures; demonstration of metal fatigue cause of loss; example of appliance fires and their cause; use of experts and spoliation of evidence. MPP partner Douglas K. Wood co-presented on the topics of "experts - legal guidelines and practical tips" and "spoliation of evidence." This program took place at the Claims Conference of Northern California, September 9, 2010, 1:00 - 3:00PM.
MPP attorneys Derek A. Simpson and Christian A. Carrillo presented this topic at a Microdesk BuildingSuccess reception in Fresno, CA.
MPP attorneys Mehrdad Farivar, Creighton Sebra and Christopher Menjou discussed this topic at the American Institute of Architects Los Angeles Chapter's annual MOBIUS LA Conference.
Description: In the current economic climate, collection is a key challenge. Liens are a form of securitizing payment of your fees. You have lien rights both for projects that go into construction and for those that do not. Learn about Mechanics’ Liens and Design Professionals’ Liens, including entitlement to such liens, required notices, timelines and other formalities. Knowing these basics can make the difference between collecting your fees versus becoming a victim of bad debt. It can also help you negotiate better contracts by securing lien rights early, and maintaining the ability to enforce them.
MPP Managing Partner Donald Ridge spoke on the role of driving, managing and creating change in these difficult times.
MPP attorney Diana Kotler presented this topic at the 26th Annual DRI Drug and Medical Device Seminar in San Francisco, California.
Hosted by:Association of Corporate Counsel America, Southern California Chapter (ACCA-SoCal)Morris Polich & Purdy LLPNever before have Food, Drug and Healthcare companies felt the pressure of issues arising simultaneously on the state, national and international level. At this uniquely trying time, day-to-day legal and business activities are the focus of inquiries by Congress, FDA and FTC, as well as the public and Plaintiffs bar. Three MCLE Panels:
Networking Reception: Take advantage of this opportunity to interact and exchange ideas with in-house colleagues practicing in this exciting area, as well as presenters from both the United States and United Kingdom.
MPP attorneys Theodore Levin and Derek Simpson spoke on legal issues affecting sustainable design in front of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) San Fernando Valley Chapter.
MPP Partner David Brandon spoke at the DRI Insurance Coverage and Claims Institute in Chicago, IL.
Description: The policy limits are exhausted and you need to inform your client that the insurer has terminated defense funding. Your attorney-client relationship up to this point may affect the client's reaction to the news - surprise, anger, the threat of a lawsuit or ethical complaint, a refusal to pay future defense costs, or cooperation and understanding. This program explores the ethical and practical aspects of the burning limits policy.
Design professionals received some practical risk management tips and were brought up to date on major economic loss cases across the country in a March 23 webinar presented by MPP attorneys Nick Wieczorek and Richard Nakamura for the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC). Entitled "Understanding The Economic Loss Doctrine: Las Vegas And Beyond," the 90-minute program discussed last year’s watershed opinion from the Nevada Supreme Court in Terracon v. Mandalay Bay Resort Group. Terracon upheld the economic loss doctrine in favor of a geotechnical firm that faced a $50 million damages claim on its $28,500 contract. The webinar looked at state supreme court cases from Washington, Utah and Arizona decided after Terracon, and offered specific suggestions to avoid the type of crushing liability claims that can be made against construction and design professionals working on commercial projects. MPP co-authored an amicus brief on behalf of ACEC in Terracon, and has been involved in several matters and appeals involving the economic loss doctrine.
Creighton Sebra and Derek Simpson spoke in front of the ACEC-CA Sequoia Chapter, and discussed approaches to protecting your business during these difficult economic times, including contract and other practical strategies, as well as the use of design professional liens, mechanics liens and stop notices to your advantage.
Creighton Sebra and Derek Simpson spoke in front of the ACEC-CA San Joaquin Valley Chapter, and discussed approaches to protecting your business during these difficult economic times, including contract and other practical strategies, as well as the use of design professional liens, mechanics liens and stop notices to your advantage.
MPP Partner Beth Kahn was a panelist in the above session at the ABA Insurance Coverage Litigation Committee CLE Seminar at the Westin La Paloma in Tucson, AZ.
Description: This panel will discuss the nature of EPL coverage including what constitutes a "claim" in the context of employee demand letters and EEOC Charges, late notice issues and strategies for insurers and policyholders when confronted with employment-related claims.
MPP attorneys Marc Katz, Beth Kahn and Mark Angert spoke at the California Association for Adult Day Services (CAADS) Winter Meeting at the Del Mar Hilton in San Diego.
Description: This course will provide an overview of legal challenges facing our industry and what needs to be done to prevent these problems from affecting your center and you personally. In this course, attendees will be able to:
Beth Kahn was a panelist in the "Independent Counsel" Toolbox Lunch Session entitled "Insurance Coverage on the Horizon: Oasis or Mirage?" at the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix, AZ.
MPP Partners Theodore D. Levin, P.E., Esq. and D. Creighton Sebra, Esq. spoke in front of the Consulting Structural Engineers Society, and discussed approaches to protecting your business during these difficult economic times, including contract and other practical strategies, as well as the use of design professional liens, mechanics liens and stop notices to your advantage.
Theodore D. Levin and D. Creighton Sebra presented this session at the ACEC California 2010 Annual Conference in Sacramento.
Government Code Section 12950.1(AB 1825)
Presented by Beth A. Kahn and Douglas H. Hoang.
For the first time we brought together four of the world’s leading climate change experts to explain, in layman's terms, what climate change really is. A newly-discovered technique for measuring climate change was revealed, which could affect the ways that insurance professionals assess potential risks and the policies needed for the future.
Location: Lloyd's of London, Old Library
Richard Nakamura, Partner in MPP’s Los Angeles Office, was Co-Chair of CMCP’s Annual Business Conference, entitled “Facing the Future with 20/20 Vision.” The conference was held September 24-25, 2009, at the Downtown Los Angeles Marriott.
For more information, click HERE
Title: Rebuilding California’s Infrastructure: The Impacts for Civil Engineers Moderators:
Panelists:
Outline:
Morning Education Session: 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. Avoiding Anti-Trust, Protecting Intellectual Property and Other Legal Challenges Two experienced practitioners offered practical advice and discussed recent developments in areas of interest to associations:
MPP Partners Mehrdad Farivar, Mark Hellenkamp, Gerald Schneeweis and Nicholas Wieczorek spoke in Las Vegas on the following topics:
Morris Polich & Purdy LLP hosted a Dessert and Open Bar Party in celebration of Guy Fawkes Day. The evening included: live music by SHAKE, open bar, desserts, plus an amazing view of San Francisco.
Partners Jeffrey S. Barron and Nicholas M. Wieczorek spoke on "Selected Issues Concerning Insurer Duties to Defend and Settle" at a Las Vegas conference. Their program covered the following: The Duty to Defend
Duty to Settle
Morris Polich & Purdy LLP were Silver Sponsors of the annual Haven House Golf Classic, whcih was held on May 12, 2008 at the Calabasas Golf & Country Club. Haven House is the nation's first shelter for battered women, founded over 40 years ago, and has since become a model for similar facilities across the U.S. Haven House is also a leading advocate for abused women and children with public policy makers.
As scientists link evidence of climate change to human factors, a new era of risk management problems is emerging. A first wave of lawsuits seeking to assign liability and recover damages for alleged climate change losses is now proceeding through the U.S. courts. This seminar was designed to explore the factual and legal theories, the strategies being employed, and the liability insurance implications.
2008 Symposium on Real Estate Law and Business Hosted by: USC Gould School of Law Millennium Biltmore Hotel, Downtown Los Angeles 3:00pm, Thursday, April 24, 2008 Mehrdad Farivar moderated a panel that discussed the topic of "Getting the Most Out of your Contractor and Architect Agreements: A Look at the 2007 AIA Form." Panel Description: This panel will review the top 10 to 15 hot issues in the new AIA documents in a lively debate format that will include the contractor's, owner's and architect's points of view. The Symposium is the most highly attended real estate law and business conference in Southern California.
Sue Junn focused on "Protecting the Insurance Professional" at a program entitled "Success, Money, Power and Women," hosted by the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA). Program Description: Join some of the most dynamic women in the Financial & Insurance Industry, sharing their successes and passing on to you how they reached the top.
Speakers: Gerald P. Schneeweis, Mark E. Hellenkamp, & George T. Brandon Description: discover the secrets of Internet promotion, and protect your business from costly legal issues! Topics include: trademark issues, copyright issues, defamation & free speech, push & pull marketing.