Business Law and Corporate Law

As the Silent and Baby Boomer generations transfer an estimated $84.4 trillion in wealth through 2045, estate planning attorneys anticipate a surge in probate disputes driven by complex family structures, cognitive decline, and DIY estate documents. This analysis examines the key factors fueling the Great Wealth Transfer litigation wave and explores proactive strategies families can employ to minimize future conflicts.

When multiple family members seek estate planning services together, can one attorney represent everyone? This article examines the complex ethical boundaries that govern attorney-client relationships in family estate planning, exploring when joint representation is permissible and when conflicts of interest require separate counsel.

As the Silent Generation and Baby Boomers prepare to transfer an estimated $84-90 trillion in wealth over the next two decades, families face critical decisions about estate planning, tax strategies, and asset protection. This comprehensive analysis explores how changing tax laws, evolving family structures, and complex asset portfolios require thoughtful planning to preserve wealth across generations while avoiding unnecessary taxes, legal disputes, and family conflicts.

Corporate legal departments increasingly use third party platforms and managed billing services to review outside counsel invoices. In many cases, the client selects the system and directs its law firms to submit bills through it. Some of these services now use artificial intelligence, automated review, or a combination of technology and human reviewers to examine individual time entries and recommend billing reductions.

A recent California lawsuit alleges that AI-based employee selection tools discriminated against workers on protected leave and those with disabilities during a reduction in force. The case highlights critical legal risks for employers deploying AI in high-stakes employment decisions, particularly around how AI systems handle productivity metrics for employees who are absent or working under accommodations.

In C.S. v. Brick Recycling Co., the New Jersey Appellate Division vacated a trial court decision requiring the disclosure of documents relating to an attorney-led workplace investigation into sexual harassment. In doing so, the court provided important guidance on the discoverability of documents relating to such investigations.

Skadden attorneys examine the unique legal considerations in insurance brokerage M&A transactions, exploring how deal structures must be carefully crafted to protect value in a people-driven business where client relationships and key personnel are paramount. The discussion covers earn-outs, reinvestment mechanics, restrictive covenants, and bespoke warranty packages tailored to the distinctive nature of brokerage deals.

Scott Ellis is a legal professional at Foley & Lardner LLP, where he provides counsel to clients across various practice areas. His expertise and experience position him to deliver strategic legal solutions tailored to complex business challenges. Contact information and professional details are available for those seeking his legal services.

Ankura's latest insights explore critical intersections of technology, security, and business strategy. From AI coding vulnerabilities threatening developer tools to the evolving challenges of trade secret protection in an AI-driven economy, these analyses examine how organizations must adapt their approaches to risk, compliance, and operational resilience in rapidly changing digital and regulatory landscapes.

Colorado regulates marijuana businesses through the state Marijuana Enforcement Division (MED), while local jurisdictions retain separate licensing and regulatory authority over marijuana businesses within their boundaries. The current Colorado Marijuana Rules are codified at 1 CCR 212-3 (version effective January 5, 2026). Because state rules, forms, fee schedules, and local ordinances can change, applicants should confirm relevant requirements before filing or closing a transaction.

The Treasury Department and IRS have released proposed regulations that would revoke Section 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status for private schools engaging in race-based admissions or diversity programs, fundamentally reshaping how educational institutions approach affirmative action and DEI initiatives.

The IRS has proposed a sweeping rule that would strip tax-exempt status from private schools maintaining race-conscious policies, including diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. The proposed regulation, set to impact over 18,000 educational institutions and 750,000 students, extends beyond traditional discrimination to encompass policies intended to serve remedial or diversity-related objectives. Schools face critical compliance decisions regarding scholarships, admissions criteria, and athletic pro