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New Arbitration Appellate Procedures Change Playing Field
Franchisors have historically struggled with whether to include provisions calling for mandatory arbitration of all franchise disputes in their franchise agreements. One of the main complaints about arbitration from franchisors and franchisees alike ' and a reason many franchisors opt not to include arbitration provisions in their franchise agreements ' has been the lack of an effective appeal process. Until recently, arbitration awards obtained under the American Arbitration Association (AAA) Arbitration Rules could only be appealed through the courts, and only for very limited and uncommon reasons ' generally, arbitrator bias or an arbitrator's refusal to allow a party to submit appropriate evidence. If the arbitrator blatantly ignored the law or facts, there was little a party could do.
The rules have now changed for franchisors attuned to the recent amendment of the AAA's Arbitration Rules. Under the AAA's new Optional Appellate Arbitration Rules (New Rules), which became effective on Nov. 1, 2013, parties can now appeal arbitration awards for errors of law made by the arbitrator that are material and prejudicial, and for determinations of fact by an arbitrator that are clearly erroneous.
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.