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The Alvord Decision: Why Periodic Review of Insurance Policies Is a Must for Franchisors
Franchisors, like other businesses, should periodically review their insurance policies to make certain that they understand the scope of their existing coverage and to identify (and remedy) any significant gaps in that coverage. Given that franchisors are more frequently finding themselves in the cross-hairs of their franchisees, franchisors should pay particular attention to whether they have coverage for franchisee claims and, if so, the extent of that coverage. Franchisors should not wait until they have become a target to determine whether they have insurance protection.
A federal judge recently held that a franchisor did not have coverage for claims by a former franchisee under a Directors and Officers policy that excluded claims “based upon, arising from, or in any way related to any Claim made by or on behalf of any franchisee of the Company in any capacity.” (Emphasis added.) The court determined that an endorsement to the D&O policy excluded coverage regardless of whether the claim was made by a current or former franchisee. Alvord Investments, LLC v. The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc. et al., 660 F. Supp. 2d 850 (W.D. Tenn. 2009).
New York's Latest Cybersecurity Commitment
On Aug. 9, 2023, Gov. Kathy Hochul introduced New York's inaugural comprehensive cybersecurity strategy. In sum, the plan aims to update government networks, bolster county-level digital defenses, and regulate critical infrastructure.
Law Firms are Reducing Redundant Real Estate by Bringing Support Services Back to the Office
A trend analysis of the benefits and challenges of bringing back administrative, word processing and billing services to law offices.
Bit Parts
Summary Judgment Denied Defendant in Declaratory Action by Producer of To Kill a Mockingbird Broadway Play Seeking Amateur Theatrical Rights
How AI Has Affected PR
When we consider how the use of AI affects legal PR and communications, we have to look at it as an industrywide global phenomenon. A recent online conference provided an overview of the latest AI trends in public relations, and specifically, the impact of AI on communications. Here are some of the key points and takeaways from several of the speakers, who provided current best practices, tips, concerns and case studies.