In the course of running our businesses so many things demand our attention and resources that addressing “intellectual property” can be left on the back burner. Patents are among the most important types of intellectual property, yet common misconceptions often lead business owners to mistakenly regard patents as irrelevant or of limited importance in their particular business. This can lead to lost opportunities or expensive problems. In simple terms, a […]

It’s considered the simplest and least expensive way to transfer real estate when a person dies – with an equally lovely name – the “ladybird,” or “Lady Bird” deed. But is that really the case? As with most concepts, what appears simple on the surface may be more complicated in application. Here is an overview of the ladybird deed, along with the benefits and challenges that come with that method […]

The latest issue of Urban Aging News highlights an article on How Important is it for you to Have a Will? written by Norman “Gene” Richards. In this insightful article, Mr. Richards shares the reasons why someone may- or may not- need a will and outlines what happens to a person’s assets when they have a will in place vs not having a will in place. Urban Aging News is […]

On March 16, 2023 Governor Whitmer signed Senate Bill 4, which expands the language of the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act (ELCRA) to include “sexual orientation” and “gender identity or expression” to the law’s list of protected categories. Public Act No. 6 of 2023 takes effect 90 days after enactment. Originally passed in 1976, ELCRA “prohibits discriminatory practices, policies, and customs in the exercise of those rights based upon religion, race, […]

In Michigan the law is clear as to the duties of condominium associations to provide written statements to purchasers of units located in the condominium regarding unpaid assessments, interest, late charges, fines, costs and attorney fees. However, when it comes to homeowners that own lots in subdivisions governed by a Homeowners’ Association (HOA), the law is not as clear-cut. Therefore, prospective purchasers should be aware of any outstanding items that […]

How Important is a Will, Really? The simple answer to that question is . . . wait for it . . . “It depends.” Most people own assets of some kind when they die. The assets might include real estate (home, land, timeshare, etc.), financial accounts (bank, investment, and retirement accounts), life insurance, savings bonds, autos, boats, toys, and personal effects or “stuff” (clothes, furniture, jewelry, tools, etc.). The assets […]

Attorneys John Gwyn and Joel Ashton from the Firm’s Community Association and Real Estate Law practice group are at the Community Associations Institute (CAI) Annual Conference and Expo today, Friday, March 3.  If you are attending the Conference, please plan on stopping by CMDA’s booth (#201).  We look forward to sharing information on the various legal services our Firm’s Community Association and Real Estate Law practice group provides.

On Thursday, February 9, 2023 the NFL announced its newest class of inductees into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Among them is the late Ken Riley, who passed in 2020. Mr. Riley was a longtime client of CMDA. Jim Acho successfully handled his concussion claim and other matters for a man affectionately known as “The Rattler.” When he left the NFL, Ken was the all-time leader in interceptions. After […]

Jim Acho, a partner in our Livonia office, is representing a current Prosecutor in a unique employment case. Matt Wayne, an associate in our Livonia office, wrote the brief in this case and carved out a new public policy exception when USDC Judge Gershwin Drain found in favor of Acho/Wayne’s client on this issue. Had the argument failed, the case would have been lost. Said Mr. Acho: “We pride ourselves […]

Even before the pandemic and recent inflationary concerns occurred, there had been a steady rise throughout the country of individuals renting or borrowing goods rather than buying and owning them. This concept has carried over to residential communities whereby homeowners have monetized their homes and condominium units through peer-to-peer online activities involving the shared economy. Of course, short-term rentals through platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo have flourished in the […]