Litigation | Fraser Blog

Five Stories That Matter in Michigan This Week – March 21, 2025

Corporate Transparency Act BOI Reporting Requirements Deadline is Here

Friday, March 21, 2025, is the deadline for most reporting companies to file their beneficial ownership information (BOI) reports as required by FinCEN under the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA).

Why it Matters: While there is pending legislation that would delay the enforcement of the CTA until January 1, 2026, companies should adhere to the reporting requirements now to avoid any fines or penalties. Contact your Fraser Trebilcock attorney if you have any questions or need assistance.

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Elizabeth M. Siefker Selected as a Member of Michigan Lawyers Weekly “Up & Coming Lawyers Class of 2025”

Fraser Trebilcock attorney Elizabeth M. Siefker has been selected as a member of Michigan Lawyers Weekly’s “Up & Coming Lawyers Class of 2025.” This special award recognizes those who have excelled in the profession and are standouts among their peers — all in their first 10 years of practice.

Why it Matters: Ms. Siefker focuses her practice on estate planning, elder law, guardianships and conservatorships, probate litigation, and tax planning. With experience assisting clients in every aspect of the estate planning process, she understands that each plan will be unique to the client’s situation. Ms. Siefker is included in Super Lawyers^® as a “Michigan Rising Star” in Estate & Probate, and received the American Jurisprudence Award for civil procedure, contracts, first amendment, and torts. She is an active member of several legal organizations, having previously served on the Board of Directors of the Women Lawyers Association of Mid-Michigan as the Regional Representative. Read more.

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Michigan Cannabis Industry Faces Price Pressure Despite High Sales Volume

According to the Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency, Michigan cannabis sales reached $241.3 million in February, down 7.6% year-over-year, with adult-use sales decreasing 4.7% to $246.6 million while medical sales fell 71.1% to just $0.6 million. The average flower price hit a new low of $1,043 per pound, falling 29.1% from last year and 2.0% from January.

Why it Matters: While Michigan’s cannabis market maintains substantial sales volume (despite a slight 3.0% decline in early 2025), the continuing downward trend in prices is creating significant profitability challenges for industry operators. Expanding supply and competition are forcing cannabis businesses to adapt to thinner margins and more challenging business conditions.

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Michigan Supreme Court Upholds Victory for Firm’s Client

Fraser Trebilcock attorneys Michael P. Donnelly and Laura S. Faussié successfully represented a fiber optic company before the Michigan Supreme Court. On January 24, 2025, the Court, after hearing oral argument from the parties, denied an application for leave to appeal in a case involving the firm’s client, a fiber optic company, effectively upholding the lower courts’ decisions in the client’s favor. The case addressed whether a fiber optic or other telecommunication company was required to obtain permission from, and pay large fees to, a railroad company before installing fiber optic cables under their tracks located at public crossings.

Why it Matters: In a 5-1 decision, with one justice not participating, the Supreme Court left in place the Michigan Court of Appeals’ ruling that the fiber optic company could proceed with installing underground cables beneath railroad tracks at public road crossings after obtaining necessary municipal permits, without requiring additional permission from or fees to the railroad company. Read more.

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Business Education Series: Anatomy of a Data Breach

Data breaches can wreak havoc on your company and almost always lead to litigation. With each new breach, we gain valuable insight into what companies could have done better. Your legal, contractual, and business obligations can sometimes be confusing and in conflict with each other.

Why it Matters: During the April Business Education Series facilitated by Nate Steed and Kelly R. Hollingsworth, this session will examine recent cases and best practices to protect your company from a breach including: lessons learned from recent data breaches; proactive strategies to insulate your business. Learn more.

Related Practice Groups and Professionals

Business & Tax | Robert D. Burgee
Elizabeth Siefker
Cannabis Law | Sean Gallagher
Litigation | Michael Donnelly
Litigation | Laura Faussié

Five Stories That Matter in Michigan This Week – March 14, 2025

Michigan Federal Court Rules that CTA is Unconstitutional

Shortly after the U.S. Department of Treasury announced a suspension of enforcement the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), the U.S. District Court of the Western District of Michigan ruled in Small Business Association of Michigan, et al v. Yellen, et. al. that the CTA’s reporting requirements violated the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

Why it Matters: While the ruling applies only to plaintiffs who brought the case (such as members of the Small Business Association of Michigan), it may influence other courts’ considering similar constitutional challenges to the CTA throughout the country.

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Michigan Supreme Court Upholds Victory for Firm’s Client

Why it Matters: In a 5-1 decision, with one justice not participating, the Supreme Court left in place the Michigan Court of Appeals’ ruling that the fiber optic company could proceed with installing underground cables beneath railroad tracks at public road crossings after obtaining necessary municipal permits, without requiring additional permission from or fees to the railroad company. Read more.

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Thaddeus E. Morgan Selected as a Member of Michigan Lawyers Weekly “Hall of Fame Class of 2025”

Fraser Trebilcock Shareholder Thaddeus E. Morgan has been selected as a member of Michigan Lawyers Weekly’s “Hall of Fame Class of 2025.” Mr. Morgan is President of Fraser Trebilcock and has over 30 years of litigation experience in both state and federal courts in a wide variety of areas, including, commercial and business disputes, employment and shareholder litigation, construction, health care, real estate, insurance, and intellectual property. He is a former assistant prosecutor and assistant attorney general.

Why it Matters: This special award recognizes esteemed members of the legal profession who have been in practice for at least 30 years. These lawyers truly are legends, making their mark in the courtroom or the boardroom, in their firms and with community organizations, and with local, state and national bar associations. Read more.

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Michigan Treasury to Distribute Nearly $100 Million from Marijuana Tax

The Michigan Treasury Department announced in February its plan to distribute nearly $100 million to 302 local entities and tribes as part of the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of the Marijuana Act.

Why it Matters: 108 cities, 36 villages, 80 townships, 74 counties, and 4 tribes will receive these payments. According to the state, this means for every licensed store and microbusiness in their respective jurisdiction, they will receive over $58,200.

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Keep Your Michigan Cottage in the Family

The family cottage is a place for fun and relaxation in Michigan. For many, the family cottage becomes the meeting place for generations and where lifelong memories are made. As a result, it’s often the intent of the owner to pass the cottage on to future generations to enjoy. Unfortunately, challenges such as high property taxes and family disputes can prevent that from happening. These obstacles can be overcome through careful cottage succession planning.

Why it Matters: If you own a cottage in Michigan, our Cottage Law team can help you think through the issues and take the actions necessary to create a cottage plan. A cottage plan usually addresses the concerns through the creative use of a limited liability company (LLC) or a trust to own the property. Learn more.

Related Practice Groups and Professionals

Five Stories That Matter in Michigan This Week – April 19, 2024

Michigan Schools Face Budget Shortfalls, Many May Have to Cut Staff

A new report by the Citizens Research Council of Michigan suggests that Michigan schools may have to cut more than 5,000 teacher jobs over the next several years to balance budgets as pandemic-related funding comes to an end.

Why it Matters: While staffing at many schools has grown due to pandemic relief funding, student enrollment has dwindled. This report comes on the heels of another report – this one from the Michigan Center for Data and Analytics – projecting the state population could decline by nearly 700,000 residents by 2050.

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Fraser Trebilcock Attorney Secures Victory for Firm Client

Fraser Trebilcock attorney Andrew J. Moore was successful in obtaining summary disposition on behalf of the firm’s client. Plaintiff and their spouse applied for credit life insurance from the firm’s client, a prominent independent insurance company, in conjunction with an RV they purchased.

Why it Matters: The spouse misrepresented their medical history and was in fact diagnosed with and treating for a disqualifying medical condition. The spouse died of heart attack two months after purchase. The firm’s client rescinded the credit certificate, then was sued. Plaintiff claimed RV salesman misrepresented application, eligibility, insurability, and coverage limits, while simultaneously claiming RV salesman was an “agent” of the firm’s client such that they should be held liable for their misrepresentation. After discovery and at summary disposition, the Judge ruled in favor of the firm’s client and dismissed all counts. Learn more.

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Michigan CRA Publishes March ’24 Data: Average Price Decreases

Per data released by the Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA), the average retail price for adult-use sales of an ounce of cannabis in March was $90.70, a decrease from $91.94 in February. This is an increase from March 2023, where the average price was $86.87.

Why it Matters: While the prices of cannabis and cannabis-related products continue to decrease and make consumers happy, growers on the other hand are seeing profits decrease resulting in them seeking ways to halt new licenses to be granted in an effort to steady prices. Contact our cannabis law attorneys if you have any questions.

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April Business Education Series

In the dynamic landscape of business, where adaptability is key, the importance of having robust Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) cannot be overstated. SOPs serve as the backbone of organizational efficiency, ensuring consistency, compliance, and continuous improvement.

Why it Matters: The April Business Education Series, “Optimizing Operations: The Crucial Role of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs),” led by Brittany Parks, founder and principal Consultant, Brittany Parks Process Consulting, is designed to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and tools to harness the transformative power of SOPs in their respective organizations. Learn more and to register.

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Ten Reasons Why You May Want to Consider a Family Cottage Succession Plan

The goal of cottage succession planning is to set up legal ground rules that provide the best chance to keep a cottage in the family for future generations.

Why it Matters: A cottage plan usually addresses concerns through the creative use of a limited liability company (LLC), or a trust (typically used for more favorable treatment associated with the uncapping of taxable value), to own the property. Learn more from cottage law attorney Mark Kellogg.

Related Practice Groups and Professionals

Insurance Law | Andrew Moore
Cannabis Law | Sean Gallagher
Cottage Law | Mark Kellogg

Five Stories That Matter in Michigan This Week – March 8, 2024

CDC Says Five Days Isolation No Longer Necessary for COVID-19

The CDC recently updated its COVID-19 guidelines, stating that Americans who test positive for COVID-19 no longer need to stay in isolation for five days. The new guidelines provide that that people can return to work or regular activities if their symptoms are mild and improving and it’s been a day since they’ve had a fever.

Why it Matters: The change will impact COVID-19-related policies of employers who still adhere to CDC guidance for their return-to-work rules.

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Fraser Trebilcock Adds Cavanaugh to Firm Name

Law firm Fraser Trebilcock Davis & Dunlap, P.C. is pleased to announce that its legal name has been changed to Fraser Trebilcock Davis Dunlap & Cavanaugh, P.C. This name change reflects the addition of the surname of member Michael E. Cavanaugh, in recognition of his long tenure and significant contributions to the firm. The firm’s trade name will continue to be Fraser Trebilcock.

Why it Matters: Mr. Cavanaugh’s list of accolades is as long as it is well-deserved. Perhaps at the very top, is recognition of his leadership in the Lansing legal community. Mike has been a trusted member of Fraser Trebilcock’s Board of Directors, and he is heavily involved in the State Bar of Michigan and the Ingham County Bar Association, for which he has served as a past-president. Read more.

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Corporate Transparency Act ‘Unconstitutional’ says Federal District Judge

A U.S. District Court in Alabama has determined that Congress overstepped its constitutional authority in passing the Corporate Transparency Act (“CTA”) (see National Small Business United v. Yellen, No. 5:22-cv-01448 (N.D. Ala.)). The CTA requires the disclosure of the Beneficial Ownership Information (“BOI”) of millions of American corporations, limited liability companies, and other entities.

Why it Matters: In the wake of this decision, FinCEN seems to have accepted the decision but only insofar as it affects its enforcement of the CTA against the named plaintiffs. The reporting obligations for the remaining 30 million or so entities is unchanged. Time will tell if FinCEN will appeal the decision and/or how it will deal with the seemingly inevitable series of similar cases that will start filling up courts across the country. Read more from attorney Bob Burgee.

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A Health Professional’s Guide to Navigating the Disciplinary Process: What to Expect if You Are Facing a Professional Licensing Investigation or Administrative Complaint

Health professionals are committed to caring for patients with expertise, compassion, and integrity. However, in the heavily regulated healthcare field, those professionals can sometimes find themselves navigating not just the medical challenges of their patients but licensing issues of their own as well. Licensing issues can arise unexpectedly, and, when they do, they can cause tremendous stress and uncertainty.

Why it Matters: As an attorney with years of experience handling professional licensing matters for health professionals, Robert J. Andretz has witnessed firsthand how professional licensing investigations and Administrative Complaints can disrupt health professionals’ careers and their ability to provide patient care. He will explore how to navigate the disciplinary process in Michigan so that you can know what to expect if you are ever faced with a threat to your license. Learn more.

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Navigating the Cost and Process of Hiring a Trademark Attorney

In the fast-paced world of business, protecting your brand is paramount. Whether you’re a startup or a large corporation, safeguarding your trademarks is essential for maintaining your identity and reputation in the market. However, navigating the legal intricacies of trademark registration and enforcement can be complex and overwhelming. This is where a skilled trademark attorney can be your greatest ally.

Why it Matters: Without adequate protection, your trademarks are vulnerable to infringement, dilution, and misappropriation, which can result in lost revenue, brand erosion, and legal disputes. By securing federal trademark registration and enforcing your rights, you establish a legal foundation that empowers you to safeguard your brand and its value. Read more from attorney Andrew G. Martin.

Related Practice Groups and Professionals

Labor, Employment & Civil Rights | Michael E. Cavanaugh
Business & Tax | Robert Burgee
Professional Licensing | Robert Andretz
Intellectual Property | Andrew Martin

Five Stories That Matter in Michigan This Week – March 1, 2024

Growing Marijuana in Michigan – No Matter the Amount – is a Misdemeanor

Late last week, the Michigan State Police shut down an illegal marijuana growing facility in Highland Park, seizing 4,000 marijuana plants and processed weed worth $6.3 million. It may surprise readers to know that, pursuant to a Michigan Court of Appeals ruling in October, 2023, the unlicensed growers may only face misdemeanor charges. In another case involving an illegal growing operation, the court ruled that violations that previously were subject to felony punishments should now be prosecuted under the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marijuana Act (the “Act”).

Why it Matters: Under the Act, it’s legal to store up to 10 ounces of marijuana, possess 2.5 ounces and grow up to 12 plants. Violations for exceeding those amounts range from civil infractions to misdemeanors. It will be interesting to see if these provisions will be revisited given that black market sales have been blamed for increased competition and falling prices for legal sales.

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Navigating the Cost and Process of Hiring a Trademark Attorney

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Fraser Trebilcock Attorney Michael E. Cavanaugh Named in Michigan Lawyers Weekly Class of 2024 Hall of Fame

Fraser Trebilcock attorney Michael E. Cavanaugh has been selected as a member of Michigan Lawyers Weekly “Hall of Fame Class of 2024.” This special award recognizes esteemed members of the legal profession who have been in practice for at least 30 years.

Why it Matters: Michigan Lawyers Weekly’s annual “Hall of Fame” award recognizes only twenty-one lawyers each year. These lawyers truly are legends, making their mark in the courtroom or the boardroom, in their firms and with community organizations, and with local, state and national bar associations. With their guidance and mentorship, they have launched hundreds of thriving legal careers and have left an indelible imprint on the profession through precedent-setting cases, high dollar outcomes and successful resolutions for their clients.

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A Health Professional’s Guide to Navigating the Disciplinary Process: What to Expect if You Are Facing a Professional Licensing Investigation or Administrative Complaint

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Increase in the Small Business Property Tax Exemption

Eligibility for the so-called “Small Business Property Tax Exemption” has expanded. Legislation passed last October 2023, expands the exemption by increasing the eligibility limit to from the $80,000 true cash value limit to $180,000.

Why it Matters: The exemption is only for commercial and industrial personal property (residential/individuals are not subject to personal property taxes). Once filed, and if granted, the exemption will remain as long as the small business still qualifies. In other words, there is no need to file an exemption claim every year. Read more.

Related Practice Groups and Professionals

Five Stories That Matter in Michigan This Week – February 9, 2024

Reinstatement of Michigan’s Prevailing Wage Act Takes Effect February 13

On March 24, 2023, Governor Whitmer signed into law a bill reinstituting Michigan’s Prevailing Wage Act (the “Act”). The new Act, which takes effect February 13, 2024, will require every contractor and subcontractor in Michigan to pay the prevailing wage and benefit rates to employees working on most state funded construction projects.

Why it Matters: Contractors that fail to pay prevailing wages may have their contract terminated, be required to pay any excess costs incurred by the state for contracting with a new employer, and be fined up to $5,000.

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A Health Professional’s Guide to Navigating the Disciplinary Process: What to Expect if You Are Facing a Professional Licensing Investigation or Administrative Complaint

Why it Matters: As an attorney with years of experience handling professional licensing matters for health professionals, Robert J. Andretz has witnessed firsthand how professional licensing investigations and Administrative Complaints can disrupt health professionals’ careers and their ability to provide patient care. He will explore how to navigate the disciplinary process in Michigan so that you can know what to expect if you are ever faced with a threat to your license. Learn more.

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Fraser Trebilcock Welcomes Robert J. Andretz to the Firm

We are pleased to announce the hiring of attorney Robert J. Andretz who will work primarily in the firm’s Lansing office.

Why it Matters: Helping clients for more than two decades, Rob is an experienced criminal defense and professional licensing attorney who has successfully represented clients in both state and federal courts in felony and misdemeanor cases in more than 50 counties across the state of Michigan. He is passionate about what he does, and, understanding the direct and collateral consequences that a criminal conviction or professional licensing sanction can bring, he compassionately works with his clients to focus on what matters most to them. Learn more.

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Understanding How Trademarks, Copyrights, and Patents Protect Your Business

Copyright is the exclusive legal protection that covers an original work of authorship. Copyrights vest upon creation of the work, which means placing the work onto a tangible medium.

Why it Matters: Similar to trademark law, it can be difficult to enforce your copyright if the work is not registered with the U.S. Copyright Office. Learn more on this series about trademarks, copyrights, and patents from Fraser Trebilcock attorney Andrew Martin.

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Client Alert/Reminder: Form W-2 Reporting Due for Employer-Provided Health Care / Disclosure Due to CMS for Medicare Part D

Unless subject to an exemption, employers must report the aggregate cost of employer-sponsored health coverage provided in 2023 on their employees’ Form W-2 (Code DD in Box 12) issued in January 2024. Please see IRS Notice 2012-09. Additionally, group health plans offering prescription drug coverage are required to disclose to all Part D-eligible individuals who are enrolled in or were seeking to enroll in the group health plan coverage whether such coverage was creditable.

Why it Matters: The filing deadline is 60 days following the first day of the plan year. If you operate a calendar year plan, the deadline is the end of February. If you operate a non-calendar year plan, please be sure to keep track of your deadline. Contact your Fraser Trebilcock attorney for any questions.

Related Practice Groups and Professionals

Labor, Employment & Civil Rights | David Houston
Professional Licensing | Robert Andretz
Intellectual Property | Andrew Martin
Employee Benefits | Bob Burgee
Employee Benefits

Five Stories That Matter in Michigan This Week – February 2, 2024

A Health Professional’s Guide to Navigating the Disciplinary Process: What to Expect if You Are Facing a Professional Licensing Investigation or Administrative Complaint

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Understanding How Trademarks, Copyrights, and Patents Protect Your Business

Trademark registration separates your business from your competition and makes you unique. It is one method of protecting your intangibles while publicly providing notice to other businesses or individuals to avoid copying or infringing on your intellectual property rights.

Why it Matters: But when do you need this? When do you get them? And what are they for? Learn more on this series about trademarks, copyrights, and patents from Fraser Trebilcock attorney Andrew Martin.

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Ward Off 2024 Tax Season Flu – File Early and Electronically

Earlier this week, January 29, 2024, marked the start date for the 2024 filing season and the first date that the IRS will begin accepting and processing 2024 returns. The IRS will issue most electronically filed refunds within 21 days, however there are a variety of factors that can delay the issuance of any refund claim outside of the 21-day period, so one should not rely on receiving a refund within 21-days.

Why it Matters: It is important to file early and electronically to avoid any delays in receiving a refund, if applicable. If you have any questions, contact your Fraser Trebilcock attorney.

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The DOL Issues Final Rule Creating New Standard for Classifying Workers as Employees vs. Independent Contractors

On January 9, 2024, the United States Department of Labor released its final rule on worker classification under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).

Why it Matters: This new rule, effective as of March 11, 2024, signals a return to a standard more likely to classify workers as employees than contractors. Thus, it is more likely that employers will be determined to have misclassified workers as contractors, resulting in liability. Learn more from your Fraser Trebilcock attorney.

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Michigan Legal Cannabis Sales Hit New Record in 2023

Licensed cannabis dispensaries in Michigan registered a record $3.06 billion in sales in 2023. This represents a 25% increase over sales in 2022. Recreational cannabis accounted for $2.74 billion of total sales in 2023.

Why it Matters: According to an analysis by Metro Times, more than $274 million in tax revenue from cannabis sales will go to local governments, schools, and roads.

Related Practice Groups and Professionals

Five Stories That Matter in Michigan This Week – January 26, 2024

Michigan Amendment Imposes Reporting Requirement for Broker-Dealers and Investment Advisers to Report Financial Exploitation of Vulnerable Adults

Effective March 13, 2024, an amendment to the Michigan Uniform Securities Act (new Section 451.2533) will take effect that is intended to protect elder and vulnerable adults from financial exploitation. Among other things, the law requires broker-dealers and state-registered investment advisers to report suspected financial exploitation to a law enforcement agency or adult protective services.

Why it Matters: According to the Michigan Department of Attorney General website, more than 73,000 older adults in Michigan are victims of elder abuse, including financial exploitation.

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The DOL Issues Final Rule Creating New Standard for Classifying Workers as Employees vs. Independent Contractors

On January 9, 2024, the United States Department of Labor released its final rule on worker classification under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).

Why it Matters: This new rule, effective as of March 11, 2024, signals a return to a standard more likely to classify workers as employees than contractors. Thus, it is more likely that employers will be determined to have misclassified workers as contractors, resulting in liability. Learn more from your Fraser Trebilcock attorney.

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Michigan Federal Judge Dismisses Complaint Against Firm Client

A Michigan federal judge recently dismissed a complaint against the firm’s client represented by attorneys Thaddeus E. Morgan and Ryan K. Kauffman, for lack of subject matter jurisdiction.

Why it Matters: The complaint alleged that the firm’s client, together with another state bar, illegally conspired to prevent the plaintiff from practicing law in their respective states. However, the Eleventh Amendment prohibits a suit brought in federal court against a state, its agencies and officials, unless the state has waived its sovereign immunity or consented to being sued. The Eleventh Amendment limits federal subject matter jurisdiction, and as a result of the state bar functioning as an extension of the state’s Supreme Court, it is a state agency that possesses Eleventh Amendment immunity. Read more.

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Michigan Cannabis Sales Eclipse $3 Billion in 2023

Michigan cannabis sales total $3,057,161,285.85, via the collection of monthly reports from the Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency. This is a 30% increase from 2022, which saw total sales at $2,293,823,890.11.

Why it Matters: Marijuana sales remain strong in Michigan, particularly for recreational use. However, there still are significant concerns about profitability and market oversaturation that the industry is contending with.

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Client Alert: PCORI Fees Due by July 31, 2024!

In Notice 2023-70, the Internal Revenue Service set forth the PCORI amount imposed on insured and self-funded health plans for policy and plan years that end on or after October 1, 2023, and before October 1, 2024.

Why it Matters: Notice 2023-70 sets the adjusted applicable dollar amount used to calculate the fee at $3.22. Specifically, this fee is imposed per average number of covered lives for plan years that end on or after October 1, 2023, and before October 1, 2024. For self-funded plans, the average number of covered lives is calculated by one of three methods: (1) the actual count method; (2) the snapshot method; or (3) the Form 5500 method. Learn more from your Fraser Trebilcock attorney.

Related Practice Groups and Professionals

Five Stories That Matter in Michigan This Week – January 12, 2024

Cannabis Regulatory Agency Announces $1 Million Social Equity Grant Program

Michigan’s Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA) announced a $1 million grant program to applicants who have a recreational marijuana license, have eligible Social Equity Program participants, and participate in the CRA’s “Social Equity All-Star Program.”

Why it Matters: The program is intended to encourage participation in the industry by people from communities that have been disproportionately impacted by marijuana prohibition and enforcement.

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Fraser Trebilcock Welcomes Danielle Lofton to the Firm

We are pleased to announce the hiring of attorney Danielle Lofton who will work primarily in the firm’s Lansing office, focusing her practice on insurance defense.

Why it Matters: Ms. Lofton represents clients with personal injury claims including no-fault cases for several years. She has routinely secured early dismissals through successful motions and negotiated favorable settlements for her clients. Learn more.

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Department of Labor Issues New Rule on Independent Contractors

This week, the US Department of Labor issued a new rule modifying its analysis for determining whether a worker is an employee, or an independent contractor under the Fair Labor Standards Act. The final rule is effective on March 11, 2024.

Why it Matters: We previously reported on the Department of Labor publishing a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking regarding classification of employee or independent contractor under the FLSA. Under this final rule effective on March 11, 2024, it will provide clearer guidance for employers and how they determine their workers’ classifications, and further protect employees from misclassification.

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Fraser Trebilcock Attorney Andrew J. Moore Elected to Board of Directors of Catholic Bar Association

We are pleased to announce that attorney Andrew J. Moore has been elected to the Board of Directors for the Catholic Bar Association, a national bar association with members in all 50 states. “I am honored to be elected to the Board of Directors, and I look forward to continuing the mission of the Catholic Bar Association,” said Andrew Moore.

Why it Matters: Andrew focuses his practice on general litigation matters, insurance defense, estate and trust administration, real estate transactions, family law, and criminal defense. His experience covers a range of practice areas, from out of court matters such as assisting clients in estate planning and business and tax matters to representing clients at trial in insurance, divorce, and criminal defense proceedings. He also serves on the Board of Directors of the Lansing Catholic Lawyers Guild. Read more.

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Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission Required to Redraw Seven House Districts

A three-judge panel ordered this week that the Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission redraw seven state House districts by February 2^nd, after it was ruled unconstitutional.

Why it Matters: Last year, a group of voters sued the Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission alleging that the Commission had violated the federal Voting Rights Act by drawing maps that impacted black voters’ opportunity to elect their preferred candidates.

Related Practice Groups and Professionals

Cannabis Law | Sean Gallagher
Insurance Law | Danielle Lofton
Labor, Employment & Civil Rights | David Houston
Litigation | Andrew Moore
Election Law

Five Stories That Matter in Michigan This Week – October 6, 2023

House Bills Would Allow Students Access to Medical Marijuana on School Grounds

“Jayden’s Law,” Michigan House Bills 5063 and 5064, would apply only to non-smokable medical marijuana. It would allow both public and private schools to administer medical cannabis on school grounds, subject to certain requirements, including a written treatment plan provided by the child’s caregiver, supervised administration by a designated staff member, and annual proof of the students’ medical marijuana cards.

Why it Matters: Michigan has allowed minors to access medical marijuana as registered patients for more than a decade. Such use, however, is prohibited while at school or school events. Backers of the legislation argue that students who use medical marijuana but must check out and back into school to do so, miss classroom instructions or extracurricular activities.

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U.S. Supreme Court Clarifies Legal Standard for Threatening Speech in Counterman V. Colorado

The U.S. Supreme Court’s recent ruling in Counterman v. Colorado addressed the longstanding ambiguity surrounding the standards for criminal prosecution based on perceived threats of violence.

Why it Matters: The Court held that such a prosecution requires proof that the defendant subjectively understood the threatening nature of the statement such that making the statement was at least reckless. This case not only delves deep into First Amendment protections but also has broad implications for online communications and interactions. Read more from your Fraser Trebilcock attorney.

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Fraser Trebilcock Attorney Thaddeus Morgan Selected to Serve on State Bar of Michigan’s U.S. Courts Committee

Fraser Trebilcock attorney Thaddues Morgan was selected to serve on the State Bar of Michigan’s U.S. Courts Committee for the 2023-24 Bar Year. Attorney volunteers are vital for the State Bar to continue providing exceptional service to the legal profession, the public, and the state.

Why it Matters: The State Bar of Michigan’s U.S. Courts Committee provides advice and recommendations concerning the State Bar’s interaction with federal courts in Michigan and on practice of law in those courts. Learn more.

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Employee Benefits Attorney

Fraser Trebilcock is seeking applications for a position in our Firm from well-qualified attorneys with strong experience in employee benefits, including employer sponsored retirement plans, employee health plans and general ERISA compliance.

Why it Matters: The successful candidate should have a solid and portable client base. Fraser will consider candidates who may lack a portable client base provided they have a solid background in these practice areas and demonstrate an aptitude for client service and growth. Learn more and to apply.

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Business Education Series – Maximizing Productivity: Strategies for More Effective Workdays

Productivity is a habit and it’s something you can become better at every day by choosing the methods and tricks that work for you.

Why it Matters: In the October Business Education Series program, Emmie Musser, Future of Work Strategist with TechSmith, is going to discuss some tried-and-true strategies for more productive and effective workdays. Learn more.

Related Practice Groups and Professionals

Cannabis Law | Sean Gallagher
Criminal Law | Paula Spicer
Litigation | Thaddeus Morgan