In most situations, employers have discretion when approving employee requests for time off, but there are some exceptions, such as when laws require employers to grant certain sick-leave requests. Another exception is when the employee is asking for time off for religious reasons. In that situation, the employer is required to provide reasonable accommodation to the employee, unless the accommodation [...]
Businesses are understandably upset when they discover that someone is posting negative online reviews or other disparaging comments about their products, services, or operations on social media. Some companies have tried to protect themselves against negative reviews by adding clauses to their terms of service and other contracts that prohibit customers from making disparaging comments. Other companies take a different [...]
One of the most valuable assets a business has may be its trade secrets. A trade secret is anything that (i) gives a business a competitive advantage, (ii) has been and continues to be treated as a secret by that business, and (iii) is not generally known in the trade or readily discoverable through public sources. Virtually every business has [...]
This year we are truly thankful for our incredible staff who have worked diligently to serve our clients’ needs in this year of increased war activity. We are also grateful for the vaccines that are saving lives throughout the world. While we are still facing many difficulties, we are hopeful that the future will be brighter. The celebration of Thanksgiving [...]
You’re angry. Your employer fired you, or your neighbor plays loud music every day, or you slipped walking into the grocery store. Should you sue? Maybe not. Before filing a lawsuit, there are a number of things you should think carefully about, including these risks. 1. No matter how good your case appears to be, you might lose. 2. Even [...]
Taco Tuesday This past July, we notified you that, as a result of Taco Bell filing a proceeding with the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB) requesting cancelation of Taco John’s federal trademark registration for TACO TUESDAY, Taco John’s agreed to abandon its mark. This meant that the term “Taco Tuesday” became free to use by restaurants in 49 states. [...]
On April Fool’s Day many years ago, an online gaming store modified its Terms of Use, adding the following clause: By placing an order via this Web site…, you agree to grant Us a non transferable option to claim, for now and for ever more, your immortal soul. Should We wish to exercise this option, you agree to surrender your [...]
Federal regulators are cracking down on the use of “off-channel” communications, such as text messaging, WhatsApp, Signal, and other messaging platforms, to the extent that those messages are not maintained in compliance with legal requirements for data retention. What should you, as an employer, do about this crackdown? First, your business needs a policy requiring all electronic workplace communications to [...]
Intellectual property (IP) refers to creations of the mind. Examples include artwork, computer software, novels, logos, music, and technological inventions. Although it’s intangible, IP is often more valuable for a business than its tangible assets, such as equipment and inventory. Nearly every business has some form of IP. Trade Secrets The Uniform Trade Secrets Act, which has been adopted by [...]
We frequently get questions from our clients about requests for payment of registration, publication, or renewal fees for corporate, domain name and intellectual property filings. Requests may also be received for monitoring fees or the preparation of minutes. The scam requests typically look like invoices or letters, often containing false due dates or threats about loss of rights if you [...]
