Posted inSettlements

Big Breach Leads to Bigger Compensation

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What is your identity worth?

Following extensive state and federal investigations, a settlement was reached this month regarding the notorious Equifax breach.  To compensate for the millions of individuals affected by the 2017 data break, the credit reporting agency has agreed to provide $300 million worth of monitoring services to affected consumers and $175 million to settle legal disputes with 48 states.  If it is determined, however, that the $300 million amount for services is not enough, then there is a stipulation stating the amount will increase another $125 million.  Equifax must also pay a $100 million fine to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.  In addition, the company must update and enhance their data security, to avoid any future computer-oriented crimes from taking place.    

2 minutes
Posted inSettlements

A Laced Latte in Lethbridge, Canada

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One contaminated latte, coming up!

Accidents can happen anywhere, even in Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada, where one 32-week pregnant woman purchased a laced latte at McDonald’s in August 2018.  Sarah Douglas allowed it to cool before taking a sip.  She detected a strange taste to the latte and is now considering filing a lawsuit against McDonald’s for what was later discovered floating around in her beverage.  Available in Small, Medium, and Large, McDonald’s advertises their 140 calorie lattes as a “treat” customized with “steamed whole or nonfat milk” with “your favorite flavor, including a rich vanilla latte, a toasty caramel latte, or a sweet, earthy hazelnut latte.”  In this case, Sarah Douglas purchased a latte steamed with a chemical flavor.

2 minutes
Posted inSettlements

Lawsuit Did Not Sway in Ribeiro’s Favor

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Copy that!

Anyone who is a fan of Fresh Prince of Bel-Air is privy to the “Carlton Dance.” Alfonso Ribeiro’s character is responsible for performing the iconic dance move. Despite the dance’s popular recognition, the US Copyright Office has refused to protect the dance move as a copyrighted work of choreography. While Ribeiro does not technically own the move, it did not stop him from taking legal action against the producers of the video games NBA 2K and Fortnite in December 2018. In the games, players are provided the option to have their virtual character perform the “Carlton Dance” as a way of expressing celebration.

2 minutes
Posted inSettlements

To Have and To Hold A Prenup

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Pre-marital bliss

Getting married can be a stressful time for couples.  Becoming a union, sharing assets and creating a family are some of the biggest life changers an individual can experience.  In order to protect assets, many couples sign a prenuptial agreement.  While some prenups are pretty standard, others have seemingly outrageous terms that may be difficult to fulfill. 

2 minutes
Posted inSettlements

PA Girl Left Theme Park Afraid

A person is covered by a white sheet, giving the appearance of a ghost against a dark background. The fabric drapes entirely over their head and body, creating a mysterious and spooky atmosphere.
The fright of your life

While Dorney Park may be advertised as an amazing place to visit, some may argue that the amusement park is also dangerous.  At the end of January 2019, a Pennsylvania mother, Shannon Sacco, filed a personal injury lawsuit on behalf of her daughter, against the Lehigh Valley, PA based Dorney Park and the parent company, Cedar Fair.  According to court documents, the young girl attended the park, with friends, for the Halloween Haunt festivities in September 2017.  She was scared so intensely by an employee, that she fell to the ground, causing serious injuries. 

2 minutes