Matthew Cross, a partner in CMDA’s Traverse City office, recently defended a Southeast Michigan municipality against a lawsuit filed by an applicant who was unsuccessful in obtaining a license to sell marijuana in the municipality. The Court granted summary disposition on Plaintiff’s claims under the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act and the Open Meetings Act, dismissing the case in its entirety. Mr. Cross focuses his practice in the […]

Jacklyn Paletta and Joshua Cervantes, both partners in CMDA’s Kansas City office, were presenters at the Midwest Public Risk (MPR) 40th Anniversary Annual Members Meeting & Fall Conference held at the Branson Conference Center in Branson, Missouri. Their presentation, “Significant Developments in Governmental Law during 2022-2023,” provided MPR members with recent updates in the law, insight into legal trends, as well as offering practical tips and best practices for entities […]

We are pleased to announce that Norman (Gene) Richards, a partner in CMDA’s Livonia office, has been named to DBusiness Magazine’s 2024 List of Top Lawyers in the Trusts & Estates category. DBusiness’ Top Lawyers List is based on an exclusive peer-review survey open to all area lawyers. Thousands of votes were cast honoring excellence in 53 practice areas. Mr. Richards focuses his practice on estate planning and elder law. […]

A critical issue that could impact the autonomy of community associations in Michigan regarding green energy and energy efficiency policies is pending in the Michigan Legislature. House Bill 5028 may affect Condominium and Homeowner Associations (HOA) associations regarding their governance as to green energy and energy efficiency policies that affect residents.  Specifically, communities must determine the most effective ways to implement eco-friendly initiatives while also preserving the democratic rights of […]

Jacklyn Paletta and John “Jay” Gillen, both attorneys in the Firm’s Kansas City office, recently served on the Springfield Apartment & Housing Association (SAHA) Legal Panel: “You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know- Day-to-Day Issues” held at the Highland Springs Country Club in Springfield, Missouri. Topics covered by the legal panel included the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), emotional support and service animals, eviction cases, lease contents, security deposit reconciliations, […]

We are pleased to announced that Joshua J. Cervantes has returned to the Firm’s Kansas City office. Please join us in welcoming him back to CMDA. Mr. Cervantes focuses his practice on insurance defense, municipal law, labor and employment law, and business law. Mr. Cervantes manages an active litigation docket and zealously represents his clients in all aspects of litigation, including in both state and federal courts. His passion for […]

Carol Smith and Isa Kasoga, both attorneys from the Firm’s Livonia office, enjoyed the opportunity to meet talented and diverse law students during Wayne Law’s Fall On-Campus Interview (OCI) Program. Carol explains, “OCI’s can be a nerve-wracking experience for students. We found the candidates to be well prepared, had solid qualifications, and gave some great answers.” Carol and Isa enjoyed their time on campus while interacting with an impressive group […]

Cummings, McClorey, Davis & Acho is pleased to announce that Ryan Miller has been named an Equity Partner of the Firm. Ryan joined the Firm’s Riverside office in 2011 as an associate attorney, began managing the office in 2017, and was elected a partner of the Firm in 2018. He is an exceptional attorney with excellent legal skills, is a strong and effective leader, and has a great reputation in […]

CMDA is pleased to announce that on behalf of our client, a large Michigan utility company, the Firm received an order from the Court of Appeals affirming summary disposition in defendant’s favor in a negligence action arising from the electrocution of plaintiff that occurred while he was power-washing a home for a customer. CMDA Partners Robert Blamer and Shane Nolan represented the utility company in this case, as well as […]

Please join us in welcoming John M. McFarland to the Firm. He brings with him over 40 years of legal experience. Mr. McFarland is a partner in our Kansas City office where he focuses his practice on federal and state court civil litigation, including disputes in the intellectual property, labor and employment, and general tort and business/contract disputes. He has broad and deep experience in a sophisticated and complex business […]