When Shu Hsun Tai lied and told his wife their property was “all hers,” the dying Los Angeles man couldn’t possibly have known his treachery would lead to a milestone for spousal rights. He and Francine Yeh bought their condo…
Legal Writing Tip: Know When to Capitalize the “C” in Court
The issue may seem trivial, but it is not. Knowing when to capitalize the “c” in court and when to leave it in lower case is a matter of legal literacy. Rule 7.3.1. and Rule 8 of The Bluebook: A…
Passion for Peace and Justice Brings Social Work Student to Homeless Advocacy Project
The Justice & Diversity Center’s Homeless Advocacy Project (HAP) is located in the heart of San Francisco’s Tenderloin district, where every year JDC staffers and volunteers serve more than 1,500 individuals and families who are homeless or at imminent risk…
What, Me Worry? The One Thing You Need for the Young Risk-Takers in Your Life
It’s not just older adults who need to think about putting their wishes in writing. Young people are known for their risk-taking, with motorcycle riding, reckless driving, outdoor adventures, and campus antics. So it’s never too early to think about…
General Counsel Tip: Responding To a Complaint
Last month, this column addressed steps that a firm can take to avoid disputes with and claims by clients. Unfortunately, some claims are unavoidable. Below are four tips for general counsel to consider when their law firm receives a demand…
Quinn Arntsen Joins Sonoma Valley Vintners & Growers Alliance Board of Directors
BASF Leader Circle firm member Quinn Arntsen, Farella Braun + Martel, has joined the board of directors of the Sonoma Valley Vintners & Growers Alliance. Arntsen is a senior associate in the firm’s Real Estate and Land Use Department.
Legal Ethics Corner: New Rule of Professional Conduct 1.4 Regarding Communication with Clients
On May 10, 2018, the California Supreme Court adopted sweeping changes to the California Rules of Professional Conduct (“CRPC” or “Rules”). These changes will go into effect on November 1, 2018. One Rule that will change significantly is CRPC 3-500…
Douglas Young Named President-Elect of the American College of Trial Lawyers
BASF Leader Circle firm partner Douglas Young, Farella Braun + Martel, was elected President-Elect of the prestigious American College of Trial Lawyers at its Annual Meeting in New Orleans. He most recently served as its Treasurer. Young is a former president of the Bar Association of San…
Let’s Lose the Booze: Rethinking Networking Events
Burned out after a long, stressful day? Unwind at happy hour. Presenting a difficult case in court? Here’s some liquid courage. Need to introduce new associates to your clients? Host a networking event with an open bar. Alcohol consumption and…
BASF Welcomes Kevin Haroff to the Bay Area Mediation Services Panel
Kevin T. Haroff is the San Francisco managing partner of the national environmental and business litigation firm Marten Law. A litigator and mediator, he holds degrees from Cornell University’s Law School and Graduate School of Management. Haroff has helped resolve…
In the Dog House: Pet Custody and Logic
Sir Robert Bryson Hall II, otherwise known as Logic, is a rapper whose career took off with his hit “1-800-273-8255.” However, his marriage to Jessica Andrea did not fare as well as his career. Logic and Andrea married in 2015…
Grow Your Contact List While Keeping Robocallers and Spammers at Bay
We yoke the law to ethical standards because ethics serve both the cause of justice and the efficacy of the work. However, ethical standards—such as the ABA’s Model Rules of Professional Conduct—present a variety of challenges, especially when it comes…