Pay NowAugust 9, 2021 We are proud to announce that Lommen Abdo attorneys John Crawford and Lauren Nuffort have been hard at work co-editing and authoring chapters of the 2021 update of the 5th edition of the Minnesota Insurance Law Deskbook, published July 9, 2021. The 26 chapter Deskbook is a practical, authoritative resource on Minnesota insurance …
August 6, 2021 In today’s busy housing market, it seems more and more houses are selling for higher than list price and some buyers are even desperate enough to skip an inspection in the hopes of landing a home. While this may seem savvy in the bustling market of today, you don’t want to get …
August 6, 2021 As information technology continues to rapidly advance, both businesses and individuals are becoming increasingly dependent on its offerings and advantages. Unfortunately, technological advances come hand-in-hand with the concerning reality of cybersecurity threats. In an effort to get out in front and protect potential victims of cybersecurity breaches, state legislatures are enacting new …
July 20, 2021 Lommen Abdo attorneys are recognized by their peers in the 2021 Minnesota Super Lawyer lists. Congratulations to Bob Abdo, Creig Andreasen, Keith Broady, John Crawford, Kay Nord Hunt, Marc Johannsen, Cameron Kelly, Reid Lindquist, Kathleen Loucks, Mike Moline, and Barry O’Neil and to our 2021 Rising Stars: Josh Feneis, Michelle Kuhl, and …
May 7, 2021 Lommen Abdo is constantly working to expand its team of lawyers with the experience and tenacity to bring the best results to our clients. Attorney Wade Johnson recently joined us, bringing his knowledge of construction defect litigation, premises liability, product liability, and catastrophic injury matters. Wade and his wife, Tracy, live in …
April 26, 2021 Our continued growth as a firm, and meeting the distinctive needs of our clients in Minnesota and Wisconsin, is a priority to Lommen Abdo. We are pleased to introduce attorney Jon Steckler, who recently joined the firm. Jon’s practice is focused on construction, commercial and business law and related litigation. Serving as …
April 13, 2021 Lommen Abdo is continually striving to be the most dedicated, flexible and client-focused firm in Minnesota and Wisconsin. We have been growing to continue to meet the unique needs of our clients and are excited to welcome attorney Kelly Sofio to our team. Kelly has over 20 years of experience in her …
March 12, 2021 Many clients come to the estate planning process having heard about revocable trusts, and have questions about whether a trust is right for them. This article explains how a trust helps to avoid probate, and may help you decide if a trust is right for you. Probate and Non-Probate Property When a …
March 5, 2021 John Crawford, Brent Tunis and Beth Chapman authored an article in the February 2021 For the Defense magazine by DRI, the Voice of the Defense Bar. Read the full article. If a plaintiff can establish that a defendant negligently caused personal injuries, the plaintiff is allowed to recover reasonable medical …
January 25, 2021 The Minnesota Court of Appeals recently clarified that an attorney misconduct claim couched as a breach of fiduciary duty claim is still a claim for attorney malpractice and subject to the expert affidavit requirements of Minnesota Statutes section 544.42. In short, a legal malpractice claim is a legal malpractice claim, even if …
January 20, 2021 The coronavirus pandemic has undoubtedly presented challenges to the way we operate in both our personal and professional lives. In the legal setting, perhaps the most challenging is how we conduct jury trials during this time. With that in mind, what issues should you and your clients consider as courts begin to …
At the end of 2020, and after 32 years at Lommen Abdo, I retired from the practice of law! I will remain as “of counsel” to help where needed, primarily in bankruptcy litigation. My life has been an amazing journey from the grade school girl who dreamed of being a lawyer! My love for the …
December 9, 2020 A frequent concern for estate planning clients is how to avoid owing estate taxes at their death. Because the estate tax has become a political issue, some of these clients are also concerned about how the election results might impact the estate tax. The following is a basic explanation of the federal …
December 1, 2020 With great sadness, we announce the unexpected passing of one of our own, Larry Rocheford. Please keep Larry’s family in your thoughts and prayers. View his obituary and comments shared by his colleagues, friends and family: StarTribune LinkedIn As a friend and former associate and partner of Larry’s, he was …
November 30, 2020 Nearly every attorney has now been affected in some way by the challenges brought on by COVID-19. Appellate attorneys have largely been lucky compared to their trial-level colleagues because most appellate work is uniquely well-suited for a remote environment. After all, the bulk of the work on an appeal is the brief …
November 30, 2020 Recently I represented a client seeking to uphold a default divorce judgment she obtained after her ex-husband failed to respond to the summons and petition in Minnesota. Both parties completed extensive briefing on the ex-husband’s motion to vacate the judgment, but as has likely been experienced by every attorney reading this article, …
November 20, 2020 Jim Krause has joined Lommen Abdo’s litigation practice focusing on professional liability, attorney discipline, insurance defense, insurance coverage and commercial litigation. Jim is a Badger, having earned his B.A. from the University of Wisconsin – Madison in 2017, along with certificates in business, entrepreneurship and European studies. In law school, Jim was …
November 13, 2020 A recent decision from the District of Minnesota reaffirmed that under Minnesota law third-party liability insurance coverage follows the vehicle, not the person. Therefore, insurance policies may contain provisions that do not extend coverage to certain vehicles, such as vehicles that the insured does not own, but regularly uses. Lommen Abdo attorneys …
Kay Nord Hunt and Michelle K. Kuhl co-authored Chapter 20 in the 2020 Eighth Circuit Appellate Practice Deskbook, “Review by Extraordinary Writ in Civil Cases.”
September 15, 2020 How Wisconsin courts and juries will approach lawsuits over exposure to COVID-19 is currently unknown. What does seem certain is that these lawsuits will occur. With COVID-19 cases ramping up across most of Wisconsin recently, businesses, organizations, and event hosts are consistently pondering what they can do to limit their liability in …
September 8, 2020 Lommen Abdo is proud to have increased the number of its lawyers included in the latest edition of The Best Lawyers in America – especially in the midst of a pandemic. One additional Lommen Abdo attorney has been included in the 2021 edition of Best Lawyers: One to Watch. Inclusion in the …
August 11, 2020 Marc Johannsen has been re-elected to another two year term as President of Lommen Abdo. Cameron Kelly has been elected to a two-year term on the board and Kathleen Loucks and Mike Glover were re-elected to serve a second two-year term on the board. Jason Engkjer, Bryan Feldhaus and Brent Johnson continue …
An article which John Crawford and Lauren Nuffort authored, “A Systematic Approach: Defending Claims Involving Future Radiofrequency Neurotomy Treatments,” appeared in the Summer 2020 newsletter of the Tort Trial and Insurance Practice Section of the American Bar Association.
August 4, 2020 Lommen Abdo was selected as one of the top three Best Law Firms by St. Croix Valley Magazine for 2020. Thanks for your votes. Five Lommen Abdo lawyers work from our Hudson office: Marc Johannsen, Family Law Brent Johnson, Business Law Jamie Johnson, Litigation Cameron Kelly, Estate Planning Brent Tunis, Litigation …
July 31, 2020 By Larry Rocheford and Michelle Kuhl The Minnesota Supreme Court released its highly anticipated decision in Peterson v. Western National on July 29, 2020. This decision was the first case in which the Court interpreted the first party bad faith statute, Minn. Stat. § 604.18. As expected, the Court interpreted the statute …
July 30, 2020 Sara Wilson has joined Lommen Abdo in its Minneapolis office. Sara has unique experience in being fully capable of handling both transactional and litigation matters. Sara’s transactional practice includes assisting clients with the purchase, sale, leasing, financing, and development of real estate; resolving title, zoning and environmental issues; business formation, governance and …
July 23, 2020 Lommen Abdo attorneys are recognized by their peers in the 2020 Minnesota Super Lawyer lists. Congratulations to Creig Andreasen, Keith Broady, John Crawford, Kay Nord Hunt, Jenneane Jansen, Cameron Kelly, Reid Lindquist, Mike Moline, Barry O’Neil and Larry Rocheford and to our 2020 Rising Stars: Bryan Feldhaus and Lauren Nuffort. RECOGNIZED …
July 12, 2020 In many cases, it makes more sense to sell a family business instead of passing it to the next generation to operate. During nearly five decades of practicing law, Bob Abdo has advised numerous family businesses. One thing he’s learned: “No two families are the same.” Abdo, executive vice president of Minneapolis-based …
June 24, 2020 By Larry Rocheford and Michelle Kuhl As we know, the Minnesota Supreme Court heard oral arguments in Peterson vs. Western National Mutual Insurance Company on January 6, 2020. That Minnesota Supreme Court decision concerned Minnesota’s new bad faith statute: Minn. Stat. § 604.18. In essence, in that third-party action a UIM claim …
June 24, 2020 The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) began accepting applications on Tuesday, June 23 for a new grant program from the State of Minnesota. To be eligible, businesses must be in good standing as of March 1, 2020, be able to demonstrate hardship as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak, …
June 19, 2020 After two and a half years of litigation, a biological father has been recognized as a legal parent of his child who was placed for adoption without his consent, according to the Minnesota Supreme Court’s recent decision in T.G.G. v. H.E.S. Although the father did not register with the Father’s Adoption Registry …
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) passed a Declaration under the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness (PREP) Act effective as of February 4, 2020 through October 1, 2024. Manufacturers are protected from legal liability for additional 12 months from the above expiration date.[1] Under the PREP Declaration, negligence cases involving future COVID-19 vaccines, …
March 2020 Last week Congress passed the new COVID-19 paid leave law. The law creates two new types of leave: Public Health Emergency Leave (“Emergency FMLA”) and Emergency Paid Sick Leave (“Emergency PSL”) On March 25, 2020, the Department of Labor released its first guidance report with respect to the new law. Below is a …
The Federal Government has granted broad immunity for healthcare providers and vaccine manufacturers related to the COVID-19 pandemic. As such, those injured by a healthcare provider or vaccine manufacturer only have one remedy[1] – a claim under the Countermeasures Injury Compensation Program (CICP).[2] The Countermeasures Injury Compensation Program (CICP) The CICP is not a court, …
April 10, 2020 As an increasing number of small businesses face payroll and other working capital related challenges, many owners struggle to understand the various forms of federal and state aid designed to support them. Through the CARES Act and various state programs, small businesses can apply for relief in the form of limited purpose …
I am sure you have heard the joke at this point that all of this social distancing at home with your family and loved ones will lead to both a baby boom in nine months, as well as a boom in divorces. As a family law attorney, I am not quite so cynical. I believe …
In the current COVID-19 pandemic, our society is preparing not only for the boredom that accompanies Stay at Home, Shelter in Place, and other pseudo-quarantines of indeterminate length, but also for the business ramifications which follow. Certainly 2020 will be a year filled with cancelled events and closed “non-essential” businesses. While many contracting parties have …
Over the past several weeks I have had many people contact me regarding their estate planning. Some are existing clients anxious to wrap up the process. Some are new clients asking how they can prepare their estate plan. The stress and anxiety caused by the coronavirus, increased time alone and the news cycle have caused …
The COVID-19 emails are endless. But I received one a day or so ago that offered a good perspective: In early British World War II when the public was bracing for widely predicted mass air attacks on major cities across the country, the British government created and posted everywhere the now famous and often mimicked …
March 24, 2020 Jamie Johnson is celebrating practicing law in Hudson for 30 years. He is an attorney with Lommen Abdo, PA, a firm that provides a wide range of legal services, including litigation, business, estate planning and family law. During his time as a litigator and mediator, he’s always tried to treat his clients …
Recently, in Berg v. Berg, et al., No. 19-CV-2676 (ECT/KMM), 2020 WL 490965 (D. Minn. Jan. 30, 2020), a dissatisfied party to a state court marital dissolution brought claims in federal court not only against his spouse, but also against the receiver and the Special Master who had ruled against him. Lommen Abdo successfully defended …
March 13, 2020 Tigers eat better in loud jungles, it’s easier for them to sneak up on you! Today our financial and legal jungle is noisy. It’s filled with a cacophony of information & stress. Here are three things you can do to stay safe. Know this, the tigers are out and they’re hunting. Specifically …
After more than 50 years practicing law, Phil Cole retired in early January 2020. Phil was the visionary leader of Lommen Abdo, teaching everyone how to be the best law professional — with no shortcuts. Decades ago, he also taught us to embrace technology; something we are extremely grateful for today as we operate virtually during …
December 19, 2019 Larry Rocheford and Brent Tunis have brought their litigation practices to Lommen Abdo this month, bringing new perspectives and increasing the firm’s depth of talent. Scroll down to read more about Larry and Brent. Larry Rocheford New Lommen Abdo shareholder Larry Rocheford adds more litigation power to the firm’s trial team. Larry …
In 2008, Congress recognized the need for the public to understand the importance and benefits of estate planning by passing House Resolution 1499, which designated the third week of October as National Estate Planning Awareness Week. Nevertheless, according to a 2019 survey carried out by Caring.com, 57% of adults in the United States have not …
Lommen Abdo’s family law group, including attorneys Marc Johannsen and Josh Feneis, was profiled in the September 2019 edition of the St. Croix Valley Magazine. “We see it as a transformative practice that helps people get through a difficult time in their life and move on to the next chapter,” says Johannsen. Divorce, adoption, custody …
Four Lommen Abdo attorneys have been selected by their peers for inclusion on the list of 2020 Best Lawyers in America: Bob Abdo, corporate; Kay Nord Hunt, appellate and Bet-the-Company litigation; Barry O’Neil, real estate litigation and professional liability defense; Phil Cole, legal malpractice defense and personal injury litigation defense. Best Lawyers in America is …
Typically, lawsuits against attorneys are brought by clients alleging legal malpractice. An essential element of a legal malpractice claim is the existence of an attorney-client relationship. The general rule is that a lawyer is liable only to his or her client and not to third persons. Nat’l Sav. Bank of District of Columbia v. Ward, …
September 27, 2019 Creig Andreasen knows a good deal when he sees one. He’s been helping clients acquire and sell real estate and other business ventures his entire career. Creig looks beyond the documents associated with a transaction to understand how they fit with a client’s long-term goals and strategy. He works to find creative …
July 30, 2019 Kathleen Loucks, a Lommen Abdo litigator, achieved certification as a civil trial specialist by the Minnesota State Bar Association (MSBA). Loucks joins a very limited list of trial attorneys that have illustrated their commitment to bettering the legal profession by completing a rigorous application process and providing the consumer of legal services …
Lommen Abdo attorneys are recognized by their peers in the 2019 Minnesota Super Lawyer lists. Congratulations to Keith Broady, Phil Cole, John Crawford, Stacey DeKalb, Kay Nord Hunt, Jenneane Jansen, Cameron Kelly, Reid Lindquist, Mike Moline, Barry O’Neil and Roger Stageberg and to our 2019 Rising Stars: Bryan Feldhaus and Lauren Nuffort. RECOGNIZED BY …
June 26, 2019 Jason Engkjer, Bryan Feldhaus and Brent Johnson have each been elected to a two-year term on Lommen Abdo’s board. Mike Glover, Kathleen Loucks and Barry O’Neil continue their two-year terms and Marc Johannsen is serving his second year as President. Jason Engkjer was elected to a two-year term on Lommen Abdo’s board …
New changes are coming to Rule 5.5 of the Minnesota Rules of Professional Conduct for attorneys, which governs multijurisdictional practice and the unauthorized practice of law. The amendments are effective July 1, 2019. Rule 5.5 prohibits a lawyer from “practic[ing] law in a jurisdiction in violation of the regulation of the legal profession in that …
Lommen Abdo was selected as one of the top three Best Law Firms by St. Croix Valley magazine. Thanks for your vote. Six Lommen Abdo lawyers work from our Hudson office: Leah Isakson, Litigation & Family Law Tom Jacobson, Litigation Marc Johannsen, Family Law Brent Johnson, Business Law Jamie Johnson, Litigation Cameron Kelly, Estate Planning And …
Just like in a marriage, no one at the outset of a closely held company expects things to go south and end in divorce. But just like in a marriage, the best time to address what will happen if things do not go as hoped is at the outset when everyone is excited and working …
Name: Kay Nord Hunt Title: Shareholder, Lommen Abdo Education: B.A, political science and history, Gustavus Adolphus College; J.D., Marquette University Kay Nord Hunt began working as an appellate advocate for Lommen Abdo before there was a Minnesota Court of Appeals. Hunt clerked at the Wisconsin Court of Appeals for a year before joining the firm. …
April 15, 2019 Traditionally when we think of estate planning, we think of transferring assets upon death pursuant to wishes conveyed as part of a Last Will and Testament or a Revocable Trust. Assets held in a revocable trust will pass directly to beneficiaries named in the trust agreement without the need for probate. Some …
This article appeared on the Mitchell Hamline Law Review blog on February 17, 2019. SIRVA “Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration” is compensated through the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP) which is administered through the United States Court of Federal Claims in Washington, DC. Through the VICP, persons who have been injured by vaccines …
On January 23, 2019, the Minnesota Supreme Court decided for the first time that the doctrine of implied primary assumption of risk does not apply to recreational downhill skiing or snowboarding. Soderberg v. Anderson, — N.W.2d — (Minn. Jan. 23, 2019). This means that skiers and snowboarders participating in the activity in Minnesota can be …
January 28, 2019 Josh Feneis understands that going through the court process is a stressful time in a client’s life and that an experienced litigator can ease that stress in two ways: 1) by providing clear information and recommendations about the options available and 2) by working effectively to obtain the best results possible for …
Why is early involvement so important in property subrogation? [Transcript] Why are contracts so important in construction defect litigation? [Transcript] What is a rewarding aspect in your practice as a professional liability defense attorney? [Transcript] View all of the videos from this Q&A by ReelLawyers.com.
January 15, 2019 They focused on client successes (not their own). They helped our clients accomplish goals. And, in the end, they gave our clients peace of mind. While Lauren Nuffort, Cameron Kelly and Jesse Beier may have different practices, they share a philosophy of the “client comes first” and thrive on solving legal challenges. …
For most people, the term “estate” conjures visions of stately mansions, fountains, private jets, and other luxuries associated with the superrich. However, if you own anything when you die, you have an estate. Your estate includes personal property, real estate, bank accounts, retirement accounts, life insurance, and business interests. Putting a basic estate plan in place …
Business owners are busy. Starting, running, and growing a business takes time, and normally carries the business owner well outside of the bounds of a normal nine to five business day. It should, therefore, come as no surprise that most business owners have no succession plan. What is a business succession plan? Business succession planning …
Federal Estate and Gift Tax Exemption: The IRS announced the official estate and gift tax limits for 2019 late in November of 2018. The federal estate/gift tax exemptions for an individual increases to $11.4 million, up from $11.18 million in 2018. This means an individual can gift or leave up to $11.4 million dollars to …
October 16, 2018 Land Surveys in Minnesota: Origins, Technological Changes and Implications While obtaining a new survey of farmland may appear on its face to be a simple process, it can result in confusion or dispute as to the true location of your property’s boundaries. This article provides a general overview of the original surveying …
John Crawford and Lauren Nuffort co-authored an article in the October 2018 For the Defense magazine by DRI, the Voice of the Defense Bar. The article also appeared in the Winter 2019 Minnesota Defense and the Fall 2018 newsletter of the Trucking Industry Defense Association. Plaintiffs in personal injury actions often claim they will need …
September 14, 2018 Marc Johannsen has been elected president of Lommen Abdo. Marc has been with the firm since 1991 and practices in the area of family law. Newly elected members of the board include Kathleen Loucks, Mike Glover and Keith Broady. Barry O’Neil and Bryan Feldhaus were each re-elected for a second term. Here’s …
Five Lommen Abdo attorneys have been included in the list of 2019 Best Lawyers in America: Bob Abdo, corporate; Kay Nord Hunt, appellate and Bet-the-Company litigation; Barry O’Neil, real estate litigation and professional liability defense; Roger Stageberg, corporate; and Phil Cole, legal malpractice defense and personal injury litigation defense. Phil Cole was named the 2019 …
Phil Cole has once again been named the Best Lawyers’ Lawyer of the Year for Legal Malpractice Law-Defendants in Minneapolis. He has garnered that award in 2011, 2014 and 2019 in his 50 years of practice. Phil also recently became a fellow of the American Bar Foundation. Phil has been the mentor of two other 2019 …
Think about the most important decisions you may have to make regarding your family. How do you want to invest your hard-earned income? Do you want to return to school to pursue a graduate degree, or would it be better for your family if one parent was more available to care for young children? Which …
Minnesota income taxes are currently among the highest in the nation, which is why many of our estate planning clients prefer to create trusts that will be taxed in other states. Many of these other states, such as South Dakota, have no income taxation, and favorable laws relating to trusts. Minnesota income tax generally applies …
Lommen Abdo is joining other Twin Cities area law firms in the fight to end hunger through Second Harvest Heartland’s first annual Overrule Hunger competition! Through September 21st, lawyers, their staffs, vendors, clients and other connections will compete to support Second Harvest Heartland and the 1 in 8 children in Minnesota who are hungry. Donations …
Lauren Nuffort was the joint recipient of the 2018 Minnesota Defense Lawyer’s Association (MDLA) President’s Award. Each year at the Association’s annual meeting, the MDLA President has the privilege of bestowing upon a member the President’s Award to recognize his or her extraordinary contribution to the Association and in appreciation of his or her exemplary …
Our estate planning clients own many different types of property: their home, cabin, personal property, savings, small businesses, and investment assets. They may use a Realtor to purchase real estate, or a personal banker for a loan. However, the role of those professionals is limited, often to a single transaction. Financial advisors are in the …
August 30, 2018 In Soto v. Shealey and Swift Transportation (August 2, 2018) Federal District Court Judge Tunheim allowed claims for negligent selection, negligent supervision, and negligent entrustment to go to trial regardless of whether or not the owner operator of a truck under an independent contractor agreement was determined to be an employee or an …
A recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling assures that Minnesota’s revocation-on-divorce statute will operate to revoke all pre-divorce beneficiary designations to the ex-spouse, even on insurance policies entered into before the enactment of the Uniform Probate Code (UPC). Minnesota adopted the UPC in 2002 which directed that beneficiary designations from life insurance policies and other similar …
I spend a lot of time talking to clients about property, but at its core estate planning is about family. Clients want to ensure that their family will be taken care of. For parents of young children, the most important family decision is the selection of a guardian. A guardian is someone appointed by a …
Marc Johannsen recently was recognized by the Northern Star Council of the Boy Scouts of America for his volunteer work when he was awarded the Silver Beaver Award. This nomination-only award is the highest award a council can bestow upon a volunteer and recognizes superior service to scouting and to the broader community. Marc has …
Cameron Kelly recently completed his LL.M. Degree in Estate Planning, graduating with honors from the John Marshall Law School. His coursework focused on the taxation of estates, protecting estate assets, and business succession planning. Cameron’s degree will allow him to engage in complex estate planning, guiding clients to efficient tax solutions. That includes minimizing or …
Wisconsin families are now able to sign up for a one-time $100-per-child tax rebate, set to correspond with a back-to-school sales tax holiday. Legislation signed by Governor Walker in April created a tax rebate for Wisconsin sales and use tax paid on purchases made for raising a qualified child in 2017, so long as certain …
The National Childhood Vaccine Injury Compensation Act of 1986 (“Vaccine Act”), 42 U.S.C.A. § 300aa-11 et seq., established a streamlined, no-fault compensation method for injured vaccine recipients to recover compensation. Under the Vaccine Act, a no-fault program was established for monetary compensation petitions to be brought by or on behalf of those injured or killed through …
In Snider v. Dickinson Elks Building, LLC, 907 N.W.2d 397 (ND 2018), the North Dakota Supreme Court clarified the consequences contractors engaged in the business of construction, repair, alteration or demolition can face if they don’t obtain a license before beginning work. The Court declared that North Dakota’s licensing statute, N.D.C.C. § 43-07-02, precludes a …
Lommen Abdo was voted as one of the finalists in the “2018 Best Law Firms of the St. Croix Valley”! Thanks for your vote. What was it about the Lommen Abdo Law Firm you really like? Our business practice? Our family law practice? Our trial and appellate lawyers? Our wills, trust and probate practice? Our …
Can the state of Minnesota tax your trust? Trial court allows employment type claims to proceed based on actions of independent contractor. Have you met Lommen Abdo’s new president and board members? Lommen Abdo generations carry on tradition of legal malpractice expertise. What is a property damage insurance appraisal? Read the Third Quarter 2018 newsletter.
When people think about estate planning, the estate tax is one of the first things that comes to mind. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act signed into law by President Trump on December 22, 2017 brought significant changes to the transfer of wealth, including increasing the federal estate, gift, and generation-skipping transfer (GST) tax exemption …
Late last year, Congress and the President enacted sweeping new tax legislation that fundamentally affects the family both during marriage and following divorce. The Tax Cuts & Jobs Act (“TCJA”) made four key changes of which you should be immediately aware. First, the TCJA made a major change affecting alimony (also known as maintenance). Based …
I recently worked with a client after his spouse passed away. Their revocable living trust had been drafted in 2000 by a competent attorney. At that time, the federal estate tax exemption was $675,000. The estate tax exemption is the amount of money that a person can pass at their death without paying tax. In …
On January 1, 2018, commercial motor vehicle drivers and those performing safety sensitive functions for cargo and passenger carriers (collectively “drivers”) regulated by the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) will now be screened for four additional semi-synthetic opioids when they undergo administered drug tests. (DOT-regulated employers include those regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier …
Estate planning may not be at the top of most people’s minds during the holidays. But it is important to check things twice before moving on to 2018 New Year’s resolutions. For many of us, this includes updating our estate plans, figuring out what’s happening with taxes, determining whether to take a distribution from your …
From comprehensive tax reform making its way through congress, to the changes to the Minnesota estate tax, it has been an eventful year for estate planning. While tax changes are not the most exciting topic for many of our clients, it is a topic that continues to be important to their families and businesses. As …
Most of our clients have at least a portion of their savings in IRAs. Those that do not often have savings in a 401k, which will likely be converted to an IRA upon retirement. Both 401k and IRA plans allow a person to put money away tax free. However, when money is withdrawn from the …
There have been significant well publicized estate planning legislative updates in 2017, including the increase in the Minnesota estate tax exemption amount and the proposed repeal of the federal exemption. Two lesser-known changes impact one of Minnesota’s most popular segments – snowbirds. “Snowbird” technically refers to people who live in northern states, but move south …
As the end of the year approaches and with the holiday season in full swing, estate planning isn’t typically at the top of most people’s wish lists. Nevertheless, it is important not to move on to 2018 new year’s resolutions without tying up the loose ends from the previous 12 months. For many of us, …
The United States Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Illinois recently held the “economic waste” doctrine, as applied in Wisconsin, prevented a property owner from recovering the costs to repair a structure on its property even though the court found the structure was defectively designed. This decision spotlights a significant barrier parties aggrieved by …
What advantages do you see in working with an appellate advocate? [Transcript] Kay Hunt’s appellate experience – handled over 600 appeals. [Transcript] How do you weigh the cost/benefit analysis of appealing a decision? [Transcript] View all of the videos from this Q&A by ReelLawyers.com.
What is your experience? [Transcript] What should I expect if my home or business is damaged by fire, hail or a storm? [Transcript] What is property damage insurance appraisal? [Transcript] View all of the videos from this Q&A by ReelLawyers.com.
How can I avoid probate? [Transcript] What is a “Revocable Trust”? [Transcript] How do you protect assets in a second marriage or blended family? [Transcript] View all of the videos from this Q&A by ReelLawyers.com.
October 14, 2017 Farmers Were Not “Farmers” for Purposes of Conservation Easement Charitable Deduction Rutkoski v. Comissioner, 149 T.C. 6 (August 7, 2017). THE PARTIES: Mark Rutkoske and Felix Rutkoske are brothers who engaged in a farming operation through various business entities on land leased by Browning Creek, LLC, a limited liability company, also owned …
September 28, 2017 There is often confusion regarding what a guardianship is and whether it may be necessary for a friend or loved one. This article is meant to provide a general overview of guardianships in Minnesota. A guardianship is a relationship between a guardian, who is appointed and supervised by the Court to make …
Lommen Abdo litigator John Crawford is the editor of the Minnesota Insurance Law Deskbook that was updated this year with its publisher, Minnesota Continuing Legal Education. John and Kay Nord Hunt also updated Chapter 15, Select Commercial General Liability Policy Exclusions, and Chapter 16, Automobile Liability Coverage. Topics within the Commercial Liability Policy Exclusions section …
As a price conscious homeowner, I am all for do-it-yourself projects to save a few dollars here and there. I often bite off more than I can chew, like the time I thought I could handle rerouting the plumbing in a bathroom. Predictably, this resulted in a flooded bathroom, water damage, and an emergency phone …
The ability to make the complex simple and clearly understood is a valuable trait for a litigator. That ability is one of the reasons why Kay Nord Hunt has been selected as Best Lawyers® 2018 Minneapolis “Lawyer of the Year” for her appellate practice and why Barry O’Neil has been added to the 2018 list of Best …
Townhome, condominium, and other homeowner associations are typically part of what is called a common interest community, or CIC. An association may be organized in the form of a profit, nonprofit, or cooperative organization, but CICs are generally controlled by the Minnesota Common Interest Ownership Act (“MCIOA”), Chapter 515B of Minnesota Statutes, and the association’s …
July 27, 2017 Beginning January 1, 2018, all limited liability companies (“LLCs”) formed in Minnesota before August 1, 2015 under Chapter 322B will become subject to a new LLC law passed by the 2015 Minnesota Legislature, Chapter 322C. What’s the difference between the new law and the old one? There are significant differences between Chapter …
Lommen Abdo attorneys are recognized by their peers in the 2017 Minnesota Super Lawyer lists. Congratulations to Keith Broady, Phil Cole, Stacey DeKalb, Kay Nord Hunt, Reid Lindquist, Mike Moline, Barry O’Neil and Roger Stageberg and to our 2017 Rising Stars: Bryan Feldhaus and Cameron Kelly. RECOGNIZED BY PEERS . . . REWARDED BY CLIENT …
Governor Dayton has signed the 2017 tax bill which will increase the Minnesota estate tax exemption from its current level of $1.8 million to $2.1 million for individuals dying in 2017. The legislation also adjusts the estate tax exemption in subsequent years; increasing the exemption by $300,000 per year until 2020 at which point the …
Federal Judge Patrick Schiltz completely vindicated Lommen Abdo’s client, Frana Companies, in a decision filed in March 2017.* Keith Broady was the lead defense attorney for Frana, a general contractor, in a case that spanned over three and half years, including nine trial days. The plaintiffs were trustees of union pension, health and welfare and …
May 31, 2017 Lommen Abdo started off 2017 with three great courtroom victories for its clients in Minnesota state and federal courts. The first was a jury trial verdict in Hennepin County in a long-pending professional liability matter relating to a mechanic’s lien. Phil Cole, with the assistance of Lauren Nuffort, tried the case after …
Cameron Kelly, a Stillwater attorney practicing in the areas of estate planning, business law and real estate, joined Lommen Abdo May 15th. Cameron is a certified real estate specialist and is on the 2017 list of Minnesota Rising Stars as published by Super Lawyers. He focuses his practice in the areas of estate and business …
The National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA) is pleased to announce that John Crawford of the Lommen Abdo Law Firm has successfully achieved recertification as a civil trial advocate. Mr. Crawford has been a NBTA member is good standing for since April of 1997. The NBTA was formed out of a strong conviction that both …
May 18, 2017 Cameron Kelly, an estate planning and corporate attorney, joined Lommen Abdo this month. Cameron Kelly enjoys providing high quality planning for individuals and businesses. His practice includes assisting clients with comprehensive estate planning, including wills, trusts, powers of attorney, health care directives, and living wills. He also has a special interest in …
The National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act of 1986 established the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program after lawsuits against manufacturers threatened to cause vaccine shortages. See 42 U.S.C. §§ 300aa-1 to -34. In an effort to maintain a supply of vaccines, as well as develop new ones, this unique program was created. The Vaccine Act, effective …
You check your mailbox. No mail. Seems strange. The next day you receive calls from credit card companies checking on your applications. Next you receive letters from credit card companies. No applications were made by you. You wonder if this is a phishing expedition or scam. You return the call. A credit card was applied …
As divorce rates rise and society becomes increasingly litigious, asset protection has become an increasingly important aspect of estate planning. While most people understand the more common estate planning goals such as probate avoidance and limiting estate tax exposure, did you know that a carefully tailored estate plan can also provide asset protection for your …
Divorce is a difficult process, no matter how amicable the split. Between property division, potential custody disputes, and escalating legal bills, no one wants to think about more legal hoops to jump through. While updating your estate plan during a divorce may be the last thing on your mind, a failure to do so could …
After a person dies, there can be many disagreements among the heirs and beneficiaries over the Will or Trust of a decedent. Two of the most common issues raised are: 1) whether the decedent had “testamentary capacity” when they signed a document; and 2) whether they were acting of their own free will or under …
April 4, 2017 Attorney John Crawford has joined Lommen Abdo, bringing additional experience to the firm’s litigation practices and transportation law practice. John has represented clients in cases involving insurance coverage, personal injuries, wrongful death, traumatic brain injuries, premise liability, property damage, punitive damages, and bad-faith claims for over 30 years. A significant portion of …
Contrary to popular belief, not only Warren Buffet and Mark Zuckerberg require estate plans. If you own anything when you die, you have an estate. Your estate includes personal property, real estate, retirement accounts, life insurance, and business interests. Putting a basic estate plan in place can help ease the administrative burden of your death on …
Lommen Abdo has been selected as the Professional Liability Litigation Law Firm of the Year – Minnesota, US (2017) by The Lawyer International. Lommen Abdo’s professional liability team has been handling the most serious and complex claims professionals face for over 75 years. We defend attorneys, trustees, CPAs and law firms in claims involving negligence, …
In an increasingly digital age, more and more of our most valuable assets are taking on digital forms. While most people are familiar with basic wills and trusts as management tools for bequests of tangible personal property, our digital assets are often overlooked in the context estate planning. Digital assets can account for a significant …
Do you have a child who is addicted to drugs or alcohol? Do you struggle with the thought of what will happen to your child after you pass away? The last thing you want to do is to provide your drug addicted child with a blank check inheritance. This could lead to disastrous results, including …
January 25, 2017 Lauren Nuffort, a litigator, and Jesse Beier, an estate planning and corporate attorney, joined Lommen Abdo as associates in January of 2017, bringing new perspectives and increasing the firm’s depth of talent. Scroll down to read more about Lauren and Jesse, who are pictured here with Lommen Abdo President Keith Broady. Lauren …
Did you know that for vaccine injuries, while you need a lawyer who is admitted to the U.S. Court of Federal Claims and a member of the Vaccine Bar, your lawyer does not need to be admitted in the same state where the injury occurred. This means that Lommen Abdo can represent you for your …
October 10, 2016 Traditionally when we think of estate planning, we think of transferring assets upon death pursuant to wishes conveyed as part of a Last Will and Testament or a Revocable Trust. Assets held in a revocable trust will pass directly to beneficiaries named in the trust agreement without the need for probate. Some …
Lommen Abdo Attorney Jamie Johnson is one of the local celebrities in the 2016 Dancing with the Hudson Stars fun-draising event on September 17th! Jamie says I was “recruited” to be a contestant in the fundraising event. While skeptical at first, I am having a blast learning the dance moves and I expect the whole …
Five Lommen Abdo attorneys are listed among the 2017 Best Lawyers. The list is compiled each year by The Best Lawyers in America. The attorneys are: Phil Cole, listed in both legal malpractice law and personal injury litigation; Roger Stageberg, corporate; Kay Nord Hunt, appellate law; Ken Abdo, entertainment; and Bob Abdo (corporate). Best Lawyers …
It seems to be a common theme. Adult child lives with parent. Maybe this is for financial reasons, or perhaps the child is acting as caretaker. Parent wants child to have the home at the time of the parent’s death. If the proper planning isn’t done, however, it’s very unlikely that the transition of the …
July, 2016 Keith Broady has been re-elected to a two-year term as President of the Lommen Abdo Law Firm, a trial, business and entertainment law firm with offices in Minneapolis; Hudson, Wisconsin; and New York City. Bob Abdo, Bryan Feldhaus, Brent Johnson and Barry O’Neil were each elected to a two-year term on the firm’s …
If you’re remarried, you may face some interesting planning considerations when it comes to completing your estate plan. The planning for blended families can be quite different from the planning you did in your first marriage as there is now yours, mine and ours. The key to successful planning is open communication and a full …
Twelve Lommen Abdo lawyers are listed on the 2016 Super Lawyers list and one attorney is listed on the 2016 Rising Stars list, as determined by Minnesota Super Lawyers. Kay Nord Hunt, chair of our Appellate Section, is listed in both the Top 100 Super Lawyers and the Top 50 Women Super Lawyers. The list …
Many of us consider our pets to be part of our family. This means we worry about who will care for them in the event of our deaths, but more importantly, how do we make sure there’s enough money set aside for this purpose? Minnesota, last but not least, has finally joined the ranks of …
The United States has the safest, most effective vaccine supply in history, according to the Department of Health and Human Resources. In the majority of cases, vaccines causes no side effects. However side effects can occur, as with any medication. Very rarely, people experience more serious side effects, like allergic reactions. In those instances, the …
At common law, a personal injury action abates with the death of either party. The Supreme Court in Johnson v. Consolidated Frieghtways, Inc.discussed the rationale behind the common law: The old non-survival rule sprang from the medieval view of torts as a form of revenge, incapable of being continued on behalf of either victim or wrongdoer. Read …
May 3, 2016 Attorneys Michael Glover and Jason Engkjer have joined Lommen Abdo, bringing additional strength to the firm’s business and litigation practices and expanding its transportation law practice. After over 25 years representing motor carriers, freight forwarders, shippers, logistics providers and businesses, Michael Glover has moved his practice back to downtown Minneapolis to offer …
Phil Cole was named “Professional Liability Litigation Attorney of the Year – Minnesota, USA” by M&A Today in their Global Awards – 2016 Edition. The M&A Today Awards strive to be the World’s most coveted and complete awards programs, taking votes from over 163 countries globally. The awards recognize dedication to excellence on a global …
In 2015, Minnesota adopted the new Uniform Voidable Transactions Act, which was recommended by the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws. The new law replaces the Uniform Fraudulent Transfers Act, which dates back to 1987. Before 1987, the Uniform Fraudulent Conveyances Act was the law in Minnesota. The history of laws on fraudulent …
Introduction Almost three years ago, we authored an article that discussed how recent Minnesota tax law changes, coupled with several Minnesota Tax Court decisions favoring an expansive definition of “resident” for income tax purposes, might force some individuals to sever their ties with the State entirely rather than risk being defined as a resident and, …
Check out what is happening in the news relating to the firm and our clients. April 24, 2018 For the second time in a year, Lauren Nuffort volunteered as a mentor alongside 30 other Minnesota business women at the Girls Going Places® Entrepreneurship Conference presented by Foster Klima and James J. Hill Center. The …
August 17/18, 2018 Lauren Nuffort presented at the 2018 Trial Techniques Seminar in Duluth from August 16 to 18. She spoke with Danielle Parry from Minnesota Lawyers Mutual Insurance and their session was titled “Attention Zealous Advocates: Don’t Forget Your Shield – Protecting Your Practice and Avoiding Traps in Legal Ethics and Malpractice Claims.” June …
Lauren Nuffort and Jessica Allen authored an article for the Spring/Summer 2016 Subrogator® Magazine, “Assembling Your Team: Managing Today’s Fire Investigation,” (page 40). Article summary: Fire subrogation cases can be won or lost depending on what the subrogated carrier does (or does not do) in the days immediately following a loss. This article discusses …
Grandma, bless her soul, was a generous lady. She wanted to name each grandchild in her will so that they would know how special each of them was to her. So, one day she decides to create her will with an on-line program. Keeping things simple, her will stated: All tangible personal property to granddaughter …
How can I reduce the risk of litigation in real estate transactions from the buyers perspective? [Transcript] Why would clients who are having problems with insurance companies come to you? [Transcript] As a client, why use a branch office firm that has offices in Minneapolis and Hudson? [Transcript] View all of the videos from this …
Lommen Abdo lawyers Kay Nord Hunt and Michael Moline recently won a real estate boundary dispute case that provides new precedent for analyzing trespass damages related to encroaching buildings. The Minnesota Court of Appeals clarified the relief available for trespass and upheld an award to Lommen Abdo’s client totaling more than $1.2 million, including $400,000 …
February…the month of love. It got me thinking about marriage. So I hopped onto Urban Dictionary* to see how others define it. Among the traditional definitions, I found a few gems. One said marriage is “the number one cause of divorce.” Another one states marriage is “the most successful wealth transfer scheme ever invented.” Funny …
Are you required to take minimum distributions from your IRA but you don’t want or need the additional taxable income? Are you charitably inclined? On a temporary basis since 2006, IRA owners have had the ability to exclude up to $100,000 from gross income for distributions paid directly from their IRAs to a qualified charity. …
January 4, 2016 Kathleen Loucks and Mike Moline have become shareholders of Lommen Abdo, P.A. effective January 1, 2016. Kathleen Loucks is a litigator who focuses on business and construction defect litigation, as well as medical malpractice and insurance coverage disputes. In her 15-year career, Kathleen has championed individuals and businesses in state and federal …
Minnesota Lawyer included a recent Lommen Abdo case in an article titled, “Notable Verdicts: organ transplants gone wrong, botched surgeries, bad priests.” The plaintiff underwent a pancreas transplant at the University of Minnesota and within the year was dead from a rare form of cancer. Investigation revealed that the same disease had killed the organ donor. …
John Crawford co-authored an article in the December 2015 For the Defense magazine. “Since the explosion onto the scene after the 2009 publication of David Ball and Don C. Keenan’s book Reptile: The 2009 Manual of the Plaintiff’s Revolution, the “reptile theory” has frustrated and annoyed defendants and their attorneys. And if Ball and Keenan’s devotees are …
Did you know having a well thought out estate plan can help build a solid foundation for your health? Especially if you’re 50 or older – there are guidelines to follow if you want to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Let’s take a look at a few of them…and the sooner the better. Get lots of …
Lauren Nuffort, Rachel Holthaus, Paul Shapiro and Peter Stiteler drafted an article for the Winter 2015 edition of Minnesota Defense, “Paying it Forward: Approaching Mentorship as a New Lawyer.” Article summary: Whenever established lawyers — whether private practitioners, academics or judges — are asked about their formative experiences as young lawyers, many of them …
Lauren Nuffort and Jessica Allen authored an article which appeared in the Winter 2015 Subrogator® Magazine (Page 42). Article summary: What happens to the costs and expenses associated with conforming a damaged building to current building and safety code requirements? Can the subrogating party recover the cost of those code-required repairs? This article addresses the positions …
A Hennepin County jury recently found the University of Minnesota Physicians and Dr. Ty Dunn negligent in accepting a pancreas for transplantation where the cause of the donor’s death was unclear. The case was tried by Kathleen Loucks of Lommen Abdo and Edward Milstein of Dankner, Milstein & Ruffo for the plaintiff. The jury awarded …
Keith Broady spoke on August 26, 2015 for the national webinar presented by The Knowledge Group on Successor Liability: What you Need to Know. Issues relating to whether one company or individual can be held liable for the debts of another company are frequently encountered by businesses. There is a presumption of corporate separateness that precludes …
The federal estate and gift tax exemption will increase to $5,450,000 in 2016 (up from $5,430,000 in 2015). This is the total amount a person can gift during their lifetime and leave to others at death. Together, a married couple can shelter up to $10.9M. The federal estate tax rate on amounts in excess of …
Why is it important for the owners to work with a lawyer when starting up a new business? [Transcript] What is a shareholder dispute? [Transcript] Why would a client choose a medium size firm like Lommen Abdo over one of the BIG law firms for business litigation? [Transcript] View all of the videos from this …
What issues come up most in employment law litigation? [Transcript] What rights do minority shareholders have in a shareholder dispute? [Transcript] What is the first thing a business should do if served with a commercial litigation lawsuit? [Transcript] View all of the videos from this Q&A by ReelLawyers.com.
This year has again brought us countless hail and extreme weather events. In fact, only Texas has more hail claims per year than Minnesota. It’s an unfortunate fact of life that where there is property damage, insurance claims and disputes soon follow. Fortunately, property owners in Minnesota and Wisconsin have a powerful tool available to …
October 21, 2015 Powers of Attorney and Trusts are two frequently used estate planning instruments. One of the most difficult decisions to make in relation to the drafting of a Power of Attorney or Trust as part of an estate plan is who shall handle your personal and financial decisions. This article is meant to …
Five Lommen Abdo attorneys are listed among the 2016 Best Lawyers. The list is compiled each year by The Best Lawyers in America. The attorneys are: Phil Cole, listed in both legal malpractice law and personal injury litigation; Roger Stageberg, corporate; Kay Nord Hunt, appellate law; Ken Abdo, entertainment; and Bob Abdo (corporate). Best Lawyers …
Why would a client hire you? [Transcript] You’ve handled medical malpractice cases both for the plaintiffs and for the defendants – how does that impact your handling of any case? [Transcript] What should I look for in choosing a lawyer to handle my vaccine-related injury? [Transcript] View all of the videos from this Q&A by …
October 1, 2015 Deb Swenson rejoined Lommen Abdo as a shareholder on September 15th. Deb works with clients to preserve their rights in bankruptcy through an active motion practice and defense of adversary proceedings, including preference actions, and other commercial litigation. Her clients include companies involved in the transportation, staffing, financial, petroleum and service industries …
Brad Wicklund was honored by Minnesota Lawyer as an Unsung Legal Hero at a luncheon on September 10th. Read the article which appeared in Minnesota Lawyer. Brad is shown below receiving his award and with a group from Lommen Abdo which attended the event. Lommen Abdo also honored Brad at a surprise party on …
Most businesses assume that if they don’t handle hazardous materials they have little risk for toxic waste spills. But as longtime Lommen Abdo client Dennis Diaz of BGD Companies found, an environmental disaster can strike any time. Even when the spill is not your fault, a prompt response can be the difference between a small …
Do you have a vacation home that you would love to keep in your family? Here are some ideas to ponder to make that happen! But first, you really do want to ask your children/grandchildren not only whether they are interested in continuing to own the vacation home, but are they interested in owning it …
Phil Cole (Litigation) and Kay Nord Hunt (Appellate), chair of our Appellate Section, are listed in Minnesota’s Top 100 Super Lawyers, as determined by Minnesota Super Lawyers. Kay Nord Hunt is also listed in the Top 50 Women Super Lawyers. Others on the Super Lawyers list include Ken Abdo (Entertainment), Bob Abdo (Business/Corporate); Keith Broady, …
How did the “best interest” factors change in 2015? [Transcript] What jurisdictional considerations do I need to keep in mind if I am getting a divorce and live in Minnesota while my spouse lives in Wisconsin? [Transcript] What custody rights do grandparents have to see his or her grandchildren? [Transcript] View all of the videos …
What types of issues do you see most often in your commercial litigation practice? [Transcript] What is the first thing I should do if my professional license is being threatened? [Transcript] What is your experience in civil litigation? [Transcript] View all of the videos from this Q&A by ReelLawyers.com.
For the first time in a number of years, the Minnesota Legislature passed a series of significant reforms in the area of family law. The omnibus family law bill (S.F. 1191) signed by Governor Dayton on May 14, 2015, (1) rewrote the Best Interests of the Child Statute (Minn. Stat. § 518.17, subd. 1); (2) …
This spring of 2015 marks several milestones in my life: 25 years married to my wife, Jean; 25 years living in the Hudson community; and 25 years as a litigation attorney for the Lommen Abdo law firm. In those 25 years, I have learned many lessons relating to litigation and the practice of law in …
Introduction Today’s tech tools, including mobile devices, cloud computing and social media, represent the new era of legal service. With those tools, among others, lawyers are able to better serve clients through increased efficiency, visibility and responsiveness. But technology has also introduced new risks to legal practice. Law firms, like Sony, Target, and Home Depot, …
After ten years of litigation, Lommen Abdo clients Doug and Rhonda Paluck have prevailed in their request for compensation for their minor son for injuries he sustained as a result of receipt of childhood vaccines. In 2005, attorney Sheila Bjorklund filed a petition for compensation on behalf of the Palucks and their minor son under …
Lommen Abdo Vaccine Group Attorney Sheila Bjorklund obtained a favorable United States Court of Appeals Decision on National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program claim in Paluck v. Secretary of Health and Human Services. http://www.cafc.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/opinions-orders/14-5080.Opinion.5-18-2015.1.PDF After an epic eight year long battle of hearings, appeals and remands, the Court of Appeals upheld a Court of Federal Claims Judge’s …
Lawyers are used to taking urgent calls from clients requesting immediate assistance on important matters. But when the client calls to report that there is a warrant out for her arrest, the sense of urgency rises to a new level. This is the situation that confronted business lawyer Bob Abdo recently. A longtime client had …
The Minnesota Revised Uniform Limited Liability Company Act, codified as Minnesota Statutes Chapter 322C, was passed by the 2014 Minnesota Legislature and signed into law by Governor Dayton on April 11, 2014. The new Act becomes effective as of August 1, 2015. The new Act is patterned after the Revised Uniform Limited Liability Company Act …
With the school year coming to a close, many families will be preparing their high school graduates for the future, whether it includes a post-secondary education or a full-time job. Parents are often surprised to learn that they no longer have legal authority to assist with or make decisions for their children once they turn …
Lommen Abdo appellate attorney Kay Nord Hunt was quoted in the November 10, 2014 American Law Litigation Daily about an Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals decision addressing the standard for admitting expert testimony in federal courts, Johnson v. Mead Johnson, LLC, 754 F.3d 557 (8th Cir. 2014). Ms. Hunt was successful in obtaining a reversal …
Creditors, bankruptcy trustees and receivers may not use the so-called Ponzi scheme presumptions in cases brought under the Minnesota Uniform Fraudulent Transfer Act (MUFTA). Recent clawback claims against banks, investors and other financial institutions receiving payments from criminal actors such as Corey Johnston and Tom Petters have often based their claims on such presumptions and …
Introduction Insurance companies have a number of tools at their disposal to investigate and adjust claims. One of the most powerful tools is the insurer’s authority to require the insured to appear in person to produce documents, physical evidence and answer questions under oath before a court reporter – the so-called Examination Under Oath. Proper …
The Minnesota Supreme Court recently issued a decision in the continuing saga of disputes between property owners and insurance companies. The dispute — as chronicled in Cedar Bluff Townhome Condo. Ass’n, Inc. v. Am. Family Mut. Ins. Co., 857 N.W.2d 290, 293 (Minn. 2014) — began following a hail storm at the Association in October …
A 2015 unpublished Minnesota Court of Appeals decision reiterates the importance of following corporate formalities in order to avoid personal liability for the obligations of a business entity. In Langford Tool & Drill Co. vs. The 401 Group, LLC, et al., Court File No. A14-0507, Lommen Abdo attorneys Barry O’Neil and Kay Nord Hunt successfully …
February 9, 2015 Mike Moline has been recertified as a civil trial advocate by the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA). Mike has been an NBTA member in good standing for five years. He is licensed to practice in Minnesota and Wisconsin. He has been involved in more than 50 trials and 500 binding arbitrations …
In terms of estate planning news for 2015, you should be aware of several things: Federal Estate Tax When someone passes away, estate tax may be owed if the decedent dies with assets in excess of the estate tax exemption amount. The federal exemption amount for decedents passing away in 2015 increased to $5,430,000 (up …
Minnesota law has long protected from termination without cause sales representatives who represent manufacturers, wholesalers, assemblers or importers and solicit wholesale orders. Until recently, this law could be circumvented by contractual choice-of-law clauses providing for the application of the laws of another state. But in an amendment effective August 1, 2014, the legislature has now declared …
MINNEAPOLIS/MINNESOTA -The National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA) is pleased to announce that Michael R. Moline of the law firm, Lommen Abdo, P.A. has successfully achieved recertification as a civil trial advocate. Mr. Moline has been a NBTA member is good standing for five years. This is his first recertification. The NBTA was formed out …
Lauren Nuffort and Paul Shapiro drafted an article for the Winter 2014 edition of Minnesota Defense, “Tips from the Trenches: How to Succeed as a Summer Associate and as a First-Year Associate.” Article summary: The Minnesota Defense Lawyers Association (MDLA) 2013-14 New Defense Lawyers Committee set out to uncover the top recommendations for how to …
October 21, 2014 Veteran trial lawyer and commercial litigator, Kathleen Loucks, joins Lommen Abdo’s Litigation team after seven years at Hellmuth & Johnson. She started her career in the courtroom, cutting her teeth in criminal court as a prosecutor. Kathleen spent the last seven years at Hellmuth, building a solid reputation as a skilled and …
December 1, 2015 Update: The Minnesota Department of Health chose Minnesota Medical Solutions and Leafline Labs as the two manufacturers for Minnesota’s medical marijuana program. Earlier this spring, the Minnesota Legislature and Governor Dayton enacted a law that provides a limited medical cannabis distribution system. Starting in July 2015, access to the drug will be …
Phil Cole (General Litigation) and Kay Nord Hunt (Appellate), chair of our Appellate Section, are listed in Minnesota’s Top 100 Super Lawyers, as determined in conjunction with the Super Lawyer selection process conducted by Minnesota Super Lawyers. Kay Nord Hunt is also listed in the Top 50 Women Super Lawyers. Others on the Super Lawyers …
Lommen Abdo announced that the firm has agreed to a long-term lease commencing January 1, 2015 in the International Centre located at 920 Second Avenue South in downtown Minneapolis. The move to the International Centre will allow the firm to design space that is well suited to the way law firms now operate. “Lommen Abdo …
Tim Matson and Barry O’Neil spoke at the 2014 Stampede by the Minnesota Intellectual Property Law Association on Monday, May 19, 2014 at Windows on Minnesota. They presented “Ripoffs, Break-Ups and Kool & the Gang: Entertainment IP Updates.”
John Crawford co-authored an article in 2014 for the ABA Tort Trial & Insurance Practice Section titled “Damages: A State by State Summary (Minnesota).
Each year, Minnesota Lawyer, an independent newspaper dedicated to providing court opinions, verdicts, settlements, appellate decisions, and legal news to enhance the practice of law, recognizes the best achievements in the Minnesota legal profession with the Attorneys of the Year awards. Kay Nord Hunt, chair of Lommen Abdo’s appellate practice, is being recognized as a …
The intra-insured exclusion in a homeowners insurance policy precluded coverage for a wrongful-death claim filed by the father of an insured minor child who shot himself to death after having found an unlocked handgun in the home that his mother shared with her partner, a Wisconsin appellate panel determined, affirming the trial court’s conclusion in …
U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers, for the fourth consecutive year, has announced that the Lommen Abdo Law Firm is included in the 2014 “Best Law Firms” rankings. Lommen Abdo’s appellate practice received a national ranking in the 2014 lists. Regional rankings for the Minneapolis/ St. Paul Metropolitan Area included four litigation practices …
December 5, 2013 Mike Moline, a national construction litigator, and Mike Leonard, a former Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals law clerk, have joined Lommen Abdo. Mike Moline handles Andersen Windows construction litigation throughout the country. Andersen is the country’s largest manufacturer of residential windows and glass doors. He also represents the Science Museum in construction …
Read about the defense verdict which Mike Moline obtained in a multimillion-dollar product liability/construction defect trial in Miami-Dade County: Lawyers.com, September 5, 2013: Jury Rejects Homeowners’ $10M Lawsuit Over ‘Moldy Mansion’ Palm Beach Daily News, September 1, 2013: “Vecellio mansion trial wraps up; Judge to rule on contractual, warranty issues involving disputed repairs at oceanfront …
2015 UPDATE: Read about the decision of the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals. Seven years after the petition for compensation was filed on behalf of minor Karl Paluck for injuries he sustained following receipt of five vaccines, he has won his right to compensation. Karl Paluck was born with a mitochondrial disorder, that remained undiagnosed …
[Q] I am a divorced small business owner in Minnesota with a net worth of approximately $3,000,000. How will the new Minnesota estate and gift tax affect my ability to leave my estate to my children with minimum gift and estate taxes? Read Glenn Kessel’s answer to this question in the Ask Upsize segment at Upsize Magazine.
The new tax law significantly affects taxpayers and their estates by enacting a gift tax (and thereby joining Connecticut as the only states to impose a state-level gift tax) and amending the estate tax and income tax. The Minnesota Legislature passed this Omnibus Tax Bill on May 20, 2013 and Governor Dayton signed it into …
[Q] I’m selling my business and the business broker tells me I will continue to have liability for the business after I close. Is this true? Read Bob Abdo’s answer to this question in the Ask Upsize segment at Upsize Magazine.
A month after 7-year-old Jocelyn Dickhoff became the center of a precedent-setting Minnesota Supreme Court ruling, her family will lay her to rest. Read the Star Tribune article. Read about the Loss of Chance decision of the Minnesota Supreme Court.
Kay Nord Hunt was presented with the Gustavus Adolphus Distinguished Alumni Citation on June 1st. This award has been given annually since 1955 and recipients include Supreme Court Justices J.R. Magney and G. Barry Anderson, Governor Harold LeVander; Artist Paul Granlund and many others in business, education, medicine, religion, government and other disciplines. Ms. Hunt …
The Minnesota Supreme Court has adopted amendments to the Rules of Civil Procedure and the General Rules of Practice for the District Courts to be effective July 1, 2013. The amendments significantly change the process for civil cases. All attorneys handling civil cases in Minnesota State District Courts need to review and understand all of …
UPDATE: On June 26, 2013 the U.S. Supreme Court issued decisions in two cases impacting same-sex marriage. While these rulings do not decide a constitutional right to same-sex marriage, the implications are very broad. As a result of these decisions, once same-sex marriages become legal in Minnesota on August 1, 2013, same-sex married Minnesotans will …
The parents of Jocelyn Dickhoff, who turns seven on June 12, brought a case against her physicians for failing to timely diagnose her cancer or refer her to another doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The trial court dismissed her case. Today, the Minnesota Supreme Court ruled on appeal that the case could proceed to trial …
Keith Broady and Nick Dolejsi received a favorable court decision in defending a construction contractor from claims of construction defects. The plaintiff, a homeowners’ association for a condominium, made direct claims against both the contractor and developer alleging many construction defects. The contractor requested the court dismiss all direct claims made by the plaintiff against …
[Q] Should I sign a contract with another business that includes agreeing to binding arbitration for any disputes? Read Keith Broady’s answer to this question in the Ask Upsize segment at Upsize Magazine.
[Q] My business has grown nicely over the last couple of years, but the bottom line has not been very impressive. What can I do to improve the bottom line and the appearance of my balance sheet for upcoming discussions with (i) a possible merger partner, or (ii) a commercial lender for needed capital to expand …
Phil Cole has authored an ebook in a series published by ExecSense, Digital Thought Leadership. Phil’s ebook is titled “The Immunities of Lawyers.” Below is an excerpt of the ebook. Read the full ebook. Lawyers are granted unique protections against civil liability under a variety of state and federal statutes and principles of common law …
U.S. News Media Group and Best Lawyers has released the 2013 “Best Law Firms” rankings and Lommen Abdo is included in the top tiers. Lommen Abdo’s Appellate and Legal Malpractice practices were included in the Minneapolis Metropolitan Tier 1 Rankings, the top level rankings. Lommen Abdo’s Appellate Practice was also rated highly in the national …
In the new millennium, employee mobility is the norm. Gone are the halcyon days when employees worked for one company for their entire career. One consequence of greater employee mobility is the proliferation of trade secret claims. When an employee leaves one company to work for a competitor, it is not unusual for the former …
John Crawford co-authored an article in the December 2012 For the Defense magazine. “It is well known that the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) launched its newest program to track the performance of commercial motor vehicles in 2010. The program, formerly called “CSA 2010” and now known as “CSA” (Compliance, Safety, Accountability), collects information from …
Lommen Abdo is among only 2,446 law firms nationwide recognized by Martindale-Hubbell® as one of the 2013 Top Ranked Law Firms in the U.S. for having one of every three of its attorneys achieve an AV Preeminent® rating. Twenty-five of Lommen Abdo’s 45 attorneys are AV-rated – well above the 33% rating required for this …
Around noon on October 27, 2007, Anthony McClelland was involved in a tragic motorcycle crash on Highway 169 near Baldwin, Minnesota. At the time of the accident, Mr. McClelland was not wearing a helmet and witnesses estimated that he was traveling at approximately 90 miles per hour with two other vehicles. Mr. McClelland was unable …
If you decide to drive a farm tractor to town to pick up groceries, will your no-fault vehicle insurance cover someone injured in a collision with the tractor? No, according to the decision of the Minnesota Court of Appeals in Kastning v. State Farm Insurance Companies, 821 N.W.2d 621 (Minn.Ct.App. 2012). The Kastning court held …
John Crawford co-authored an article in the October 2012 edition of The Transportation Lawyer magazine. “’Social media’ is a relatively new term and covers a wide range of websites that allow users to create an on-line profile to share pictures, comments, messages, news stories, and music. The best known of these is Facebook, which has approximately 845 …
[Q] I am the principal officer/manager of my company and trustee of my company’s 401K qualified retirement plan. What is the timing of my obligations to plan participants of the new Department of Labor final regulations for fee disclosure? Read Glenn Kessel’s answer to this question in the Ask Upsize segment at Upsize Magazine.
The Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act (“JOBS” Act) was signed into law on April 5, 2012. One portion of the JOBS Act addresses “crowdfunding.” Crowdfunding involves seeking funding over the internet from a potentially large group of investors putting in relatively small amounts. The JOBS Act amended the federal securities laws to provide for a …
Margie Bodas, Vice President of Practice Management at Lommen, Abdo, Cole, King & Stageberg, P.A. was selected as one of the 2012 Women in Business Industry Leaders by the Minneapolis St. Paul Business Journal. “Lommen Abdo . . . might be the Swiss Army Knife of law firms.” the Business Journal article stated. “And the …
A medical-malpractice claim based on a physician’s failure to diagnose cancer is not barred as a mere “loss of chance” (or reduced-chance) claim when the misdiagnosis resulted in a delay in treatment that makes it more likely than not that the patient will not survive the cancer. Read the Star Tribune article: Will false diagnosis cost …
The Ramsey County District Court gave final approval for the settlement between Plaintiffs, 876 Bondholders, and the St. Paul Port Authority at a hearing before the Honorable Robert Awsumb on October 27, 2011. Get more information: Read more about the settlement; Read the Star Tribune article; Read the Pioneer Press article.
The City of Vadnais Heights welcomes a new Mayor! Marc A. Johannsen was appointed as Mayor at the October 19, 2011 City Council meeting. Johannsen replaces Susan Banovetz who resigned effective September 30th to take a position with the University of Minnesota-Duluth. Read the full press release.
Lommen Abdo presents a closely held business seminar on Thursday, October 27, 2011. Learn how to maximize your opportunities and navigate the inherent obstacles. Gain valuable and practical insight into how to: Avoid legal disputes, including avoiding personal liability; Create effective buy-sell agreements; Prepare for succession and exit planning; and Address shareholder disputes and business …
Best Lawyers has named Kay Nord Hunt of Lommen Abdo as the “Minneapolis Best Lawyers Appellate Practice Lawyer of the Year” for 2012. Best Lawyers is one of the oldest and most respected peer-review publications in the legal profession. Steven Naifeh, President of Best Lawyers, says, “We continue to believe – as we have believed …
The Ramsey County District Court granted preliminary approval of a settlement agreement between Plaintiffs 876 Bondholders and the St. Paul Port Authority on September 23, 2011. Keith Broady of Lommen Abdo Law Firm, lead attorney for Plaintiffs, recommended approval of the settlement agreement to the Court because: The settlement ends over five years of contentious …
The Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals found that when the facts are developed at trial, a reasonable factfinder could reach one of several factual conclusions: (1) the Appellants were misled into believing that the terms of the 1988 Agreement would continue to govern the parties’ contractual relationship; (2) both parties intended for the 1988 Agreement …
SECOND CIRCUIT UPHOLDS MADOFF BANKRUPTCY COURT RULING THAT INVESTORS NOT ENTITLED TO DETERMINE LOSSES BASED ON LAST STATEMENT. On August 16, 2011, “net winners” in the massive Madoff Ponzi scheme were delivered a blow by the Second Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals. The Madoff “net winners” argued for a method whereby gains or losses in …
The Minnesota Court of Appeals recently clarified the bounds of grandparent visitation in its decision in the case of In re the minor child C.D.G.D. v. Darst. Minnesota has long recognized a statutory right for grandparents to petition the Court for visitation with their grandchildren. See Minn. Stat. §257C.08, subd. 1. That right, however, has …
Lommen attorneys Thomas Jacobson, Kay Hunt and Diane Odeen successfully represented David Bushard before the Wisconsin Supreme Court in a case that dealt with the breakup of a partnership. In 1995, Bushard and Steven Reisman formed PressEnter, a partnership that provided internet dial-up services to communities in western Wisconsin. The business flourished, but the friendship …
MINNEAPOLIS – 4/29/11 – A lawsuit was filed today in the Minnesota First District Court in Carver County on behalf of three plaintiffs who are claiming injuries resulting from a defective hip replacement system. The suit alleges that Simpson & Associates of Chanhassen aggressively marketed, distributed and sold the DePuy ASR hip replacement system, which was …
John Crawford serves as Editor-in-Chief for the Minnesota Insurance Law Deskbook, 4th Edition (2011) (Updated 2015). In addition to serving as the Deskbook’s editor, John wrote chapter 6 of the Deskbook regarding the duty to defend. Read the full article.
Kathleen Loucks wrote and article in the 2011 Hennepin Lawyer on her experience with the Judicial Ride-Along Program in Hennepin County. “I was fortunate enough to be able to participate in the Hennepin County Judicial Ride-Along Program last spring. My interest was piqued after reading the January 2010 article from Chris Morris who also participated …
The Minnesota Court of Appeals has revived a class action lawsuit against the Philip Morris tobacco company by smokers of its Marlboro Light cigarettes. The plaintiff class argued the company used fraud and misrepresentation to convince consumers that the light or low-tar cigarettes were less dangerous than standard varieties. Lommen Abdo’s Kay Nord Hunt, who …
As medical and wage loss expense claims continue to rise for even the most minor car accidents, post-termination claims are growing as well. In order to get the full amount of medicals considered along with any wage loss or replacement services claims, Plaintiffs increasingly will be filing with the district court for recovery of claims …
Barry O’Neil and Ken Abdo obtained the widely publicized settlement of departing member claims for Kristen Hall, the founding member of superstar country act Sugarland. O’Neil and Abdo are members of Lommen Abdo’s litigation and entertainment advisory team for Ms. Hall who brought the partnership claim for a one-third interest against her former band mates. Ms. Hall started Sugarland in 2002, helped build its brand …
Best Lawyers, the oldest and most respected peer-review publication in the legal profession, has named Phillip A. Cole as the “Minneapolis Best Lawyers Legal Malpractice Lawyer of the Year” for 2011. Cole is president of Lommen, Abdo, Cole, King & Stageberg. He litigates professional liability, commercial disputes and business torts. After more than a quarter …
Contract recitals are often included at the beginning of an agreement to lay out the background of the deal. The Minnesota Court of Appeals recently addressed whether such recitals are binding and what happens when the recitals contain terms or obligations not included in the actual terms of an agreement. In the case of Construction …
August 6, 2010 Lommen Abdo was recently involved in the post-conviction hearing concerning Koua Fong Lee. Kay Hunt, Bryan Feldhaus, Diane Odeen and Nick Dolejsi provided legal strategy, issue analysis and briefing support to Brent Schafer and Bob Hilliard, Lee’s lead counsel, in petitioning the Ramsey County District Court for post-conviction relief based on newly …
876 Bondholders, represented by Lommen Abdo, won another victory in their claims against the St. Paul Port Authority. By Order filed June 18, 2010, Ramsey County District Court Judge Teresa Warner vacated court orders issued in 2002 and 2004 that purported to approve many actions taken by the Port Authority in connection with Basic Resolution …
The economic crisis of recent years has resulted in near record bankruptcy filings. The impact upon your business when a customer or vendor files a petition for bankruptcy can be devastating. You can alleviate the economic loss, however, by learning about the different types of bankruptcies, the effect of the automatic stay, 341 Meetings of …
“‘Going green’ must start at the company’s top,” an article authored by Bob Abdo, Lommen Abdo, and Kim Carlson, EarthSmart LLC, was published in the April/May 2010 Upsize Minnesota Magazine. Also in that issue is a profile discussing Lommen Abdo’s own initiatives and the work it does with clients, “Assisting clients with green legal issues while putting sustainability …
John Crawford authored an article in July of 2010 for the ABA Tort Trial & Insurance Practice Section titled “Minor Compromises: State by State Summary (Minnesota). Read the full article.
Lommen Abdo’s Brent Johnson was among 23 attorneys spotlighted by the Wisconsin Law Journal as individuals who consistently give their best to their clients, to the administration of justice, and to the organizations they enrich through their outside efforts. He was selected as one of the Wisconsin Law Journal’s 2010 Leaders in the Law. In …
On February 16, 2010, the Minnesota Court of Appeals, in McNeilly v. Department of Employment and Economic Development (A09-895), ruled that employees subject to regular seasonal lay-offs, who anticipate returning to work with their same employer, are still obligated to be actively seeking employment during their time off in order to be eligible for unemployment …
Lommen Abdo welcomed Michael E. Keyes as a shareholder on January 12, 2010. Mike is an experienced commercial litigator who focuses in the areas of professional liability, securities fraud and complex business litigation. He represents partnerships, corporations and individuals throughout the United States in accountant liability, securities fraud class actions, shareholder disputes, contract disputes, and …
We invite you to talk with us about alternatives to traditional hourly billing rates. We have traditionally charged for most legal work on an hourly basis and continue to do so in most instances. However, alternative billing methods can provide you with greater predictability as to the total fee you will have to pay and …
Now is the right time to review and evaluate the organization and operation of your nonprofit organization. Enforcement activity of tax-exempt organizations has increased exponentially by both the Internal Revenue Service and states attorneys general. Failure to maintain proper records or render proper statements may result in substantial penalties and/or the revocation of an entity’s …
In managing the business and affairs of a corporation, a Board of Directors has a great deal of power and authority and few restrictions. Each individual director must, however, comply with the legally required standard of conduct. Minnesota law provides that a director “shall discharge the duties of the position of director in good faith, …
Lommen Abdo attorneys Barry O’Neil and Tom Dougherty successfully “ungated” a hedge fund investment on behalf of the firm’s client, a limited partner investor. Here is the background: The client purchased a limited partnership interest from the hedge fund in 2005. The investment paid our client a monthly return on his investment and required the …
John Crawford co-authored an article in July of 2009 for the ABA Tort Trial & Insurance Practice Section titled “Comparative/Contributory Negligence and Joint and Several Liability: State by State Summary (Minnesota). Read the full article.
By Mike Keyes. Appeared in Journal of Accountancy, 2008.
John Crawford authored an article in July of 2008 for the ABA Tort Trial & Insurance Practice Section titled “Spoliation of Evidence: State by State Summary (Minnesota). Read the full article.
John Crawford authored an article in 2007 for the ABA Tort Trial & Insurance Practice Section titled “Punitive Damages in Commercial Transportation: State by State Summary (Minnesota). Read the full article.
Winter 2006 Bodily injury liability filings and verdicts are lower than any time in the last decade, but No-Fault filings and awards are higher than ever. Our carriers are deluged with No-Fault claims which often are worth several thousand dollars before the carrier gets its first notice, which exceed the $10,000 arbitration jurisdictional limit at …
By Margie Bodas. Appeared in Minnesota Medicine, October 2000
By Phil Cole. Appeared in Bench & Bar, September, 1999.
By Bob Abdo. Appeared in Entertainment and Sports Lawyer, Fall 1998
By Bob Abdo. 1998-2000.
Co-Authored by Reid Lindquist. Appeared in Minnesota Defense, Fall 1994.
By Brent Johnson. Appeared in 20 Wm. Mitchell L. Rev. 191, 1994.
Co-Authored by Reid Lindquist. Appeared in Minnesota Defense, Winter 1993.
Co-Authored by Kay Nord Hunt. Appeared in 19 Wm. Mitchell L. Rev. 659, 1993
By Bob Abdo. Appeared in Commercial Law Journal, 1971.