Articles

Issues to Consider in Rights of First Refusal

People often talk about giving or getting a Right of First Refusal ("ROFR") in real estate transactions.  But what is a ROFR?  A simple definition might be: If the owner of the property decides to sell the prope…

Your Foreclosure Hearing Just Got More Crowded

Written By Lance P. Martin

On August 30, 2017, an amendment to North Carolina’s foreclosure statutes took immediate effect.  The amended statute, Section 45-10, concerns substitute trustees under a deed of trust.  As amended, Section…

On Your Mark—"TM" or "®"? Trademark Notice Guidelines

Written By Angela P. Doughty, CIPP/US, AIGP

Business owners, whether starting a new business or a new brand, tend to have similar trademark-related questions: Do I need a trademark registration?  What rights will a registration provide?  What are the assoc…

Truth and Consequences: Title VII's Opposition Clause and Employer's Reasonable Belief

Written By Hayley R. Wells

This summer, the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, which hears appeals from North Carolina federal courts, issued an opinion that has employers taking note.  In Villa v. CavaMezze Grill, LLC, the …

Do I Need An Estate Plan?

Written By Zachary F. Lamb

Do you care who will receive your assets upon your death? Do you have a minor child or children and want to have a say in who takes care of them if something happens to you? Do you care who will take care of you if you…

600,000 Reasons to Comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act

Written By Lance P. Martin

The United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit—which covers federal courts in North Carolina—recently affirmed a borrower’s victory against a loan servicer under the federal Fair Credit Reporti…