- Michigan “Homeowner’s Energy Policy Act” Signed Into Law
Earlier this summer, the Michigan legislature passed and Governor Whitmer signed into law, the “Homeowner’s Energy Policy Act,” which will prohibit homeowners’ associations from banning certain energy-saving home improvements. A few of the improvements that can’t be prohibited by HOAs (subject to certain conditions) under the law include: solar panels, rain barrels, energy efficient appliances, solar water heaters, electric vehicle supply equipment, and energy-efficient windows.
Why it Matters: The new law will take effect 90 days after the legislature adjourns. Accordingly, the effective date will likely be in early 2025.
———
- Fraser Trebilcock Lawyers Selected Among “The Best Lawyers in America©” 2025 Edition in Lansing
Fraser Trebilcock is proud to announce that 12 attorneys from the firm have been selected for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© 2025 edition in Lansing. Those selected include: Michael S. Ashton, Administrative / Regulatory Law; Litigation – Regulatory Enforcement (SEC, Telecom, Energy); Utilities Law; Douglas J. Austin, Real Estate Law; Michael E. Cavanaugh, Administrative / Regulatory Law; Bet-the-Company Litigation; Commercial Litigation; Litigation – Labor and Employment; Michael P. Donnelly, Commercial Litigation; Sean P. Gallagher, Environmental Law; Litigation – Environmental; Jennifer Utter Heston, Administrative / Regulatory Law; Mark E. Kellogg, Closely Held Companies and Family Business Law; Corporate Law; Hon. Paula J. Manderfield (Ret.), Mediation; Thaddeus E. Morgan, Commercial Litigation; Litigation – Construction; Michael H. Perry, Environmental Law; Gary C. Rogers, Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law; Litigation – Insurance; and Marlaine C. Teahan, Trusts and Estates.
Why it Matters: “These twelve attorneys are proven leaders in their field, and practice at a very high level. We congratulate them on this recognition by Best Lawyers®,” said Thaddeus E. Morgan, President of Fraser Trebilcock. Read more.
———
- Attorney Douglas J. Austin Honored as “Lawyer of the Year” in Real Estate Law in Lansing
Fraser Trebilcock attorney Douglas J. Austin has been named the Best Lawyers in America® 2025 Real Estate Law “Lawyer of the Year” in Lansing. “I am honored to be recognized by Best Lawyers® as a 2025 ‘Lawyer of the Year’ for Real Estate Law in Lansing,” said Mr. Austin.
Why it Matters: This is a high distinction, as only one attorney in each practice area in each community is identified as “Lawyer of the Year.” Mr. Austin has been at the center of real estate law for over 45 years. In addition to being a shareholder at Fraser Trebilcock, he is also the past chair of the firm’s Real Estate Law department.
———
- Intellectual Property and Rebranding: What Business Leaders Need to Know
Rebranding a business is exciting. It’s often done at a time of growth and transformation, such as a merger or acquisition, when a business is launching an important new product, entering a new geographic market, or trying to appeal to a new customer demographic. Whether you’re updating your logo, changing your company name, or overhauling your entire brand identity, it’s a big step that can lead to great opportunities.
Why it Matters: But before you dive into the creative process, it is crucial to consider the intellectual property (IP) law implications of a rebrand. Your brand is one of your most valuable assets, and rebranding involves important legal considerations that can impact your business’s future. In this article, we’ll walk you through some key IP issues you need to consider when rebranding. These considerations will help you protect your new identity and avoid costly legal pitfalls along the way. Read more.
———
- FTC Non-Compete Prohibition on Hold Again
Briefly, the FTC issued a Final Rule, scheduled to go into effect on September 4, 2024, placing limitations on non-compete and related employer contracts or policies. That rule has been reviewed by three courts. Previously, the Northern District of Texas invalidated the rule as beyond the authority of the FTC to issue, but issued an injunction barring enforcement of the rule only with respect to the parties to that litigation.
Why it Matters: U.S. District Judge Ada Brown, sitting in the Northern District Court in Texas, has now held the rule invalid as “arbitrary and capricious.” In comparison to her first ruling, however, this court issued a national injunctive order barring enforcement of the rule in all United States federal court jurisdiction. Ryan LLC v. FTC. LINK. As a result, employers are not required to follow the Final Rule. The duration of this order and status is unknown, but can be expected to be several months or longer, or possibly permanent. Read more.
Related Practice Groups and Professionals
Energy, Utilities & Telecommunication | Sean Gallagher
Real Estate Law | Doug Austin
Intellectual Property | Andrew Martin
Labor, Employment & Civil Rights | David Houston
Business & Tax | Andrew Martin