Legal Updates

Contractors and Assignments of Benefits

In recent years, insurance companies have been dealing with claims being filed and handled by non-insureds. Traditionally, the ability to negotiate claims on an insured’s behalf was undertaken by a “public adjuster” or attorney. Now, repair shops, construction companies, and “short pay” businesses are taking over that role. Contractors and the like rely on two propositions to claim the right to handle insureds claims: (1) “Assignment of Benefits” agreements, and (2) Pepsi-Cola Metro. Bottling Co., Inc. v. Emps. Ins. Co. of Wausau. (2022 WI App 45, ¶ 15, 404 Wis. 2d 337, 349, 979 N.W.2d 627, 632, aff'd, 2023 WI 42, ¶ 15, 407 Wis. 2d 384, 990 N.W.2d 267).

The ability to challenge personal jurisdiction may now be more limited, even in forums with only a minimal connection to the dispute. Businesses must carefully consider where and how they operate, and the jurisdictional consequences of compliance with state registration statutes.

Municipalities should withdraw trails from transportation uses to extend recreational immunity protection.

When a person retains counsel to file a lawsuit or defend against a lawsuit, it’s standard practice that the attorney takes the lead in all matters, including communications with opposing counsel and appearing at court hearings.

The intersection of celebrity life and the law has always generated significant public interest, and the recent case involving celebrities Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni is no exception. The litigation raises important questions regarding privacy rights, defamation, and the legal process. In this blog post, we will explore the key aspects of the case, its implications for celebrity privacy, and what it means moving forward.

Defamation is a legal issue that pits the First Amendment right to free speech of individuals in the community against the First Amendment right to free press of news organizations. The Wisconsin Court of Appeals recently reaffirmed the legal standards that strike that balance.

At Crivello, Nichols & Hall, S.C., we understand the intense pressures that come with legal proceedings, both for those practicing law and for the clients navigating the system. Attorneys, paralegals, and legal support staff manage demanding caseloads, tight deadlines, and high-stakes negotiations, all of which contribute to significant stress

According to the Insurance Research Council, approximately 12% of all drivers are uninsured.  Approximately 4% of drivers do not maintain adequate levels of insurance to cover damages caused by the collision, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, etc.   Many states require drivers to purchase a minimum amount of bodily injury liability insurance.

Wisconsin Court of Appeals Grapples with the Meaning of an “Arrest Record” for Purposes of the Wisconsin Fair Employment Act

Short-term rentals are the perfect solution for many travelers. Family trips are exponentially more relaxing with access to multiple adjoining bedrooms, a kitchen and laundry facilities.

A case involving the economic loss doctrine in regard to the construction of a custom-built home. 

The Corporate Transparency Act became effective January 1, 2024, and will affect millions of small entities throughout the US. The regulations require certain entities to report information regarding their ownership and control to the Financial Crime Enforcement Network.