The Annual Report to the Community from the Minnesota Judicial Branch, submitted by Chief Justice Lori Gildea of the Minnesota Supreme Court, was released a few weeks ago. http://www.mncourts.gov/mncourtsgov/media/PublicationReports/2018%20Annual%20Report/2018-MJB-Annual-Report-to-the-Community.pdf This annual report provides an update to Minnesota citizens about the business of the Minnesota judiciary. The report also contains some important information that every attorney should know in … [Read more...]

Over the last few months, I have served as a mediator for attorneys in unique business disputes involving the financial industry. The attorneys involved quickly were able to avoid legal landmines in two critical areas by using a local mediator with experience in that area of law. First, out-of-state mediators are often unaware of the requirements of the Minnesota Civil Mediation Act, a law that requires certain provisions be used in order to reach an enforceable deal. The attorneys are … [Read more...]

The one thing you need to know about early mediation is that it saves boat loads of money! In the last several years as part of my legal practice, I have seen a number of fee petitions submitted to the arbitrator or judge relating to business and employment disputes, including FINRA arbitration. The fee petitions are submitted on behalf of the prevailing party seeking an award of attorney fees and costs. Those fee petitions have ranged from $175,000-$400,000. And that is only for one party … [Read more...]