Will you be ready when tragedy sparks litigation?
June 12 will mark the first anniversary of the horrific killings at Pulse Nightclub in Orlando, and litigation on behalf of victims has begun. In late March, 2017, a federal suit was filed seeking to hold the employer and wife of the alleged gunman liable. In response to the first of what may be many obstacles, the case has already been voluntarily moved to a Florida state court.
Quantifying lost earnings is an essential component of any successful case involving wrongful death or catastrophic injury. If your case requires a determination of lost earnings, you may want the assistance of Asterion’s staff of experienced consultants.
When is the right time to begin an IP dispute?
Intellectual property continues to be a fertile ground for litigation. Consider the post-death brand wars affecting the Jimi Hendrix Estate. Within the past year, disagreements have arisen over proposals to lend the late, legendary guitarist’s name to a brand of pot, as well as to Purple Haze liqueur. Innocent nursery rhymes are no less litigation-prone. A suit brought by the heirs of “Soft Kitty” against the TV sitcom The Big Bang Theory was recently dismissed. Protecting a successful brand requires vigilance and savvy. Thunder Beast Root Beer is fighting back against Monster, while a patent infringement case between Costco and Titleist is heating up just in time for the 2017 Masters.
To fully evaluate a potential claim, consult the experts at Asterion to determine the value of your intellectual property.
On the Lighter Side: Did you lose the office pool again?
If you’re tired of having your brackets busted, take a look at the math behind momentum.
The Thread Recommends: Consulting the Sideways Dictionary if you’re involved in a tech case. This resource will help you explain complex terms by using easy to understand analogies.
Trends We’re Watching
Civil Forfeiture
According to the Inspector General of the Department of Justice, the DEA has seized billions in civil forfeitures over the last decade. Similar administrative seizures happen at the state level, with varying levels of reporting. The DOJ report indicates that challenging forfeitures is difficult, but often results in the return of some of the property. At Asterion, we’re wondering if this report will encourage push back by property owners who have not been accused of a crime.
Alternative Reality Torts
Alternative realities are opening new frontiers in tort litigation. As new theories of liability develop, Asterion will be considering how damages will be calculated.
Spotlight on Lost Earnings Claims
Asterion has experience in the quantification of economic damages sustained by businesses, individuals and families who have suffered lost earnings resulting from tort and contractual claims, including personal injury, wrongful death and wrongful termination.