Tag Archives: new york

Access Denied

Equal rights to book reading

The advocacy group, Center for Independence of the Disabled New York (CIDNY), is taking a legal stand against the Queens Borough Public Library and the City of New York. Fighting for the rights of the disabled, CIDNY claims the new library’s interior, which just opened in Long Island City this fall, violates the Americans with Disabilities Act.  The lawsuit cites a handful of sections within the library that are not easily accessible to those whose mobility is impaired or limited. Continue reading →

Up in Smoke: NY Sues UPS Over Cigarette Tax

When there’s smoke, there’s fire.

The latest courtroom battle about cigarettes has nothing to do with damaged lungs, but rather a hole in the wallet. It recently came to light that shipping giant UPS failed to properly adhere to tax laws in New York City and State. This has resulted in 78,500 shipments of untaxed cigarettes being transported in and out of New York for about 4 years. UPS has denied these allegations, citing their past experience in the shipping industry and adherence to any and all state laws. The lawsuit was filed in New York by Attorney General Eric Schneiderman and Counsel Zachary Carter and is seeking about $180M in damages. Outright accusations of lying and cheating have been thrown out by both sides, understandable considering the hefty price tag attached. Read more

Offside: Lawyer Sued While Buying Soccer Club

Golazo, or no-lazo?

Although Italian sports have a reputation for being less-than-upfront, this time the trouble is being caused in America. Joe Tacopina, the rockstar lawyer who has represented the likes of Alex Rodriguez, is being sued by a former client at a very inconvenient time. Tacopina recently arrived in Bologna, Italy and is entering the final stages of purchasing the soccer club Blogona F.C. 1909, known as Bologna. According to reports, the lawsuit was filed with the intention to freeze Mr. Tacopina’s assets while he is abroad and looking to become a part owner of the franchise. The suit also claims the plaintiff was misled by the defendant, who was searching for representation in Connecticut (Mr. Tacopina is not registered to practice law in that state). The suit was officially filed in New York City. Read more

Class Action: Galaxy of Interns Gets a Guardian

Employment Lawyers, Assemble!

While the stars are aligning for Marvel at the box office, it appears that one former employee is trying to become the First Avenger. Kenneth Jackson, who worked for the company for part of 2008, recently filed a class action lawsuit and is seeking lost wages and back pay. Jackson was reportedly classified as an “intern”, although he worked full 40 hour-per-week shifts Monday through Friday for the better part of 5 months. Along with Mr. Jackson are 100 other Marvel interns seeking compensation. The lawsuit was filed in New York’s Supreme Court.

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A Bronx Tale: MLB Fan Falls Asleep, Sues

“I made a Yankee hat more famous than a Yankee can”

As the World Cup in Brazil continues to captivate millions across the globe, it seems that baseball (not soccer) is the sport putting fans to sleep. Just ask Andrew Rector, a baseball fan who recently fell asleep during a nationally televised New York vs Boston game. ESPN cameras caught Rector dozing off, at which time announcers John Kruk and Dan Shulman began to poke fun at his expense. Embarrassed and humiliated, the fan consulted a lawyer and filed a lawsuit to the tune of $10 million. He specifically named all parties involved, including ESPN, the announcers, the Yankees, and Major League Baseball. Read more