Fees

California Court Rules in Favor of Employers: Retaliation Verdict Without Relief Means No Attorney’s Fees

by

Los Angeles, California — A recent ruling by the California Court of Appeal has stirred significant discussion regarding whistleblower retaliation claims. In a case involving former Deputy D’Andre Lampkin and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, the court clarified the nuances of liability and the subsequent inability of a plaintiff to recover attorney’s fees even after proving unlawful retaliation. The case began when Lampkin reported misconduct by a retired deputy, which he alleged led to a series of retaliatory actions against him, including being suspended and losing his medical benefits. He subsequently filed a whistleblower … Read more

"Clients Demand an End to Billable Hours: Law Firms Urged to Embrace Fixed Fees and AI Solutions"

by

London, England — Clients are increasingly frustrated with traditional invoicing methods used by law firms, calling for a shift away from the billable hour during recent conversations captured in an In-House Lawyer Survey. Many clients argue that more modern, fixed-fee models would enhance transparency and efficiency. An energy sector attorney expressed strong sentiments about the need for change. “There’s no reason to run a stopwatch, everyone hates it. If firms have decades of digitized data, they could establish fixed fees with a modest markup instantaneously,” the lawyer noted. The sentiment underscores a growing desire for … Read more

Virginia Unveils Series of Tough New Traffic Laws: Stricter Seat Belt Rules and Higher Towing Fees Take Effect

by

Virginia’s updated traffic laws took effect on Monday, bringing significant changes that are expected to affect drivers throughout the state, particularly in the Hampton Roads region. One of the most notable updates is a modification to photo speed enforcement in school zones. Under new legislation, drivers caught speeding by cameras in these areas will no longer face penalties unless the ticket clearly indicates that the school zone was active at the time, which must be evidenced by flashing lights, signs, or other indicators. Additionally, failing to stop for pedestrians and other vulnerable road users has … Read more

New Kentucky Laws Set to Impact Student Phone Use and Protester Fees

by

FRANKFORT, Ky. — A series of new laws aimed at schools and public protests are set to take effect in Kentucky, impacting students and demonstrators across the state. Among the notable changes is a ban on student cellphone usage during school hours, alongside new guidelines for handling protests. With the new law banning cellphones in schools, educators believe the policy will help reduce distractions in the classroom, aiming to improve focus and learning outcomes. Proponents argue that this initiative is essential in fostering an environment conducive to education, emphasizing the importance of face-to-face interactions for … Read more