For many personal injury and civil litigation firms, mold cases are not rejected because the damages are too small. They are rejected because the path from first call to viable lawsuit is often inefficient, resource-intensive, and difficult to standardize. Client stories may be compelling, but before counsel can make an informed decision, the firm usually must sort through lease issues, landlord notice history, property-condition evidence, symptom patterns, medical treatment, collectability concerns, and the practical question of whether the environmental and medical science can ultimately support the claim.

MCC developed this program to solve that front-end problem. Instead of sending firms raw inquiries or loosely screened intake, the program is structured to deliver vetted mold and habitability opportunities supported by documentation, screening, and a repeatable case-development pathway. The model is intended to help firms spend less time guessing about viability and more time evaluating cases that already have a stronger litigation foundation.

“Most firms are not turning away mold cases because there is no opportunity,” said Ed Mohr, President of Mohr Marketing. “They are turning them away because the intake burden is heavy, the workup is technical, and too much time gets burned before anyone knows whether the file is truly worth pursuing. This program was built to reduce that drag and give firms a more practical way to enter or expand in this category.”

At the center of the program is a screening and development structure designed specifically for mold and habitability litigation. Serious leads are screened through a 23-point vetting system and informed by an extensive intake framework that evaluates environmental warning signs, medical symptom patterns, landlord or property-owner notice history, liability facts, damages, and defendant collectability before a matter is delivered to counsel. The objective is not simply to generate interest, but to improve the quality of matters entering the law firm’s pipeline.

When a qualified matter is referred, the receiving firm is not expected to start from zero. Depending on the file, the package may include available tenancy or ownership records, lease materials, notice communications, environmental indicators, preliminary medical information, and other intake materials organized around liability and damages. This early organization is intended to shorten the time between intake review and legal decision-making, while also reducing the amount of staff labor typically required to determine whether the case deserves further investment.

Once a client is retained, MCC can be hired to continue to support the matter through a structured three-phase case-development model. Phase 1 focuses on environmental investigation, including property-condition development, professional testing, laboratory analysis, and industrial hygiene work designed to document the conditions inside the property. Rather than relying on anecdotal complaints alone, this phase is aimed at creating objective evidence of exposure conditions that can withstand scrutiny in negotiation and litigation.

Phase 2 moves into medical discovery. This phase can include exposure-informed laboratory panels, biomarker review, symptom documentation, and a more structured effort to understand how the environmental conditions may be affecting the claimant’s health. The goal is to move beyond generalized complaints and toward a medically grounded damages narrative that can support case value and causation strategy.

Phase 3 is designed to connect environmental and medical evidence. This work may include toxicological analysis, correlation of the property findings with the claimant’s symptom presentation, and, where appropriate, MD-level specific causation opinions and treatment-related guidance. The resulting work product is compiled into a litigation-ready Case Summary Report intended to support attorney review, demand preparation, settlement positioning, and early discovery planning

One of the biggest barriers to mold litigation is not just complexity, but cost. Environmental testing, laboratory work, medical discovery, and expert coordination can require substantial investment early in the life of the case, often before the defense has meaningfully engaged or liability has been fully tested. To address that issue, the expanded attorney program includes a qualified referral track supported by non-recourse client-side funding.

Under that structure, a third-party funding partners of MCC and Mohr Marketing who handle mold cases may cover defined Phase 1 through Phase 3 workup costs after counsel is retained on a qualified case. If there is no recovery, the client is not personally responsible for repaying those workup funds. This funding model is designed to reduce one of the most common reasons firms decline mold files: the reluctance to front significant capital on a technically demanding matter before the evidence is developed.

The timing benefit may be just as important as the financial benefit. In mold and habitability litigation, property conditions can change quickly. Remediation may occur, access to the premises may be lost, and evidence that would have been useful early in the case can deteriorate or disappear. By pairing vetted intake with a funding path that allows environmental and medical work to begin promptly after retention, the program aims to preserve evidence and strengthen leverage before the defense has an opportunity to erode the factual record.

MCC and Mohr Marketing also position the program as a business-development solution for plaintiff firms looking to diversify beyond more conventional dockets. The cases targeted by the program often involve chronic moisture intrusion, poor HVAC conditions, delayed or incomplete remediation, repeated landlord notice, and stronger habitability narratives. Across the portfolio described in those materials, single-plaintiff damage often falls in the $125,000 to $225,000 range, with many cases resolving before trial once environmental and medical proof is sufficiently developed.

That value proposition is central to the program’s pitch to trial firms. The opportunity, according to the materials, is not found in taking a higher volume of weak mold inquiries. It is found in creating a reliable system for identifying stronger files, reducing intake waste, coordinating expert development, and moving qualified cases toward meaningful settlement leverage. In that sense, the program is marketed less as a traditional lead service and more as an operational framework for opening a new, higher-friction practice segment without forcing the firm to reinvent the process on every file.

“This is not a name-and-number product,” said Ed Mohr. “The goal is to help firms evaluate stronger mold and habitability matters with less friction and more confidence. By the time counsel receives a serious lead, the case should already be organized around the issues that actually matter in litigation — liability, damages, collectability, documentation, and the practical path to proof.”

The program is intended for personal injury and civil litigation firms that already know how to negotiate and litigate serious cases but want a more dependable intake and development infrastructure for mold matters. The core obstacle is an operational one: many firms have the legal talent to handle these cases, but do not want to shoulder the burden of building a technically complex toxic tort file from a cold start. By solving that infrastructure problem, Mohr Marketing and MCC aim to make mold and habitability litigation more manageable, measurable, and profitable for partner firms.

The expanded offering also emphasizes coverage and consistency. Rather than positioning mold cases as occasional one-off opportunities, the program is built around the idea of helping firms secure a more reliable stream of vetted mold and habitability matters in favorable markets.

For firms that have historically passed on mold cases because the files felt too messy, too technical, or too capital-intensive, the expanded attorney program is designed to offer a different path: vetted intake, a structured scientific workup, organized case reporting, and a funding model that keeps qualified files moving. For Mohr Marketing and MCC, the broader objective is to turn a category many firms have treated as operationally burdensome into a repeatable and profitable docket segment.

About Mohr Marketing

Mohr Marketing is a legal marketing company focused on helping law firms grow through targeted lead generation, strategic content, and case-acquisition systems tailored to specialized practice areas. In this program, Mohr Marketing works with MCC to help law firms access vetted mold and habitability opportunities supported by a structured development model.

About Mold Case Consulting

Mold Case Consulting is a consultancy focused on the environmental and medical causation components of mold and habitability claims. Its model includes lead vetting, documentation gathering, environmental and medical case development, expert coordination, and litigation-oriented reporting designed to support counsel after retention.

Media Contact

Ed Mohr
Mohr Marketing
Allentown, Pennsylvania
www.MohrMktg.com
ed@mohrmktg.com

The Special Impact Litigation Grants will supplement the Center’s Annual Grant Program and reflect the urgency of the current threats facing organizations supporting social justice and civil rights. In addition to providing financial support, the Center will partner directly with selected grantees as co-counsel, offering collaborative litigation support to strengthen high-impact cases.

“These grants are rooted in our belief that funding alone is often not enough,” said Jerry Hartman, President of the Barbara McDowell Social Justice Center. “At this moment when fundamental civil rights are under grave attack, we are committed to pairing financial resources with our litigation expertise to help nonprofit legal organizations bring cases that can ensure social justice.

Eligibility and Application Process

The Special Impact Litigation Grant application will be open from March 16 through March 31, 2026. Any eligible nonprofit organization pursuing a new high impact litigation case may apply, including organizations that have not previously received funding from the Center.

Current and past Center grantees are eligible to apply, provided the application is for a new case that has not previously received funding from the Center.

Eligible nonprofit organizations may submit a completed application through the Center’s online, one-step application process.

Applications will be reviewed by the Center’s Grant Committee, which will recommend a subset of proposals to the Center’s Board of Directors for final review. The Board will make final determinations regarding the number of grants awarded and the amount of each grant.

Grant Awards and Notification

In addition to financial support, ranging from $20-25K per grant, selected grantees will partner directly with the Center as co-counsel, receiving hands-on legal collaboration and litigation expertise to support high-impact cases. A detailed description of the litigation support provided by the Center is available as part of the application materials.

Applicants will be notified of funding decisions by April 30, 2026.

For more information about the Special Impact Litigation Grant Program and to apply, visit https://www.mcdowellsocialjusticecenter.org/special-impact-litigation-grant-2026

“Our new office gives us the opportunity to enhance the services we offer our Houston-area clients,” says Parag Shah, CEO of Miles. “We are looking forward to continuing to expand our Houston panel and to serve our clients’ needs in the professional, welcoming environment of our new space.”

Miles’ new 6,000-square-foot state-of-the-art office suite is located on the eighth floor of 5300 Memorial Drive. It features ten fully equipped, multiuse conference rooms including a dedicated arbitration room that provide a comfortable, neutral place to resolve disputes. The office also offers Zoom technology, sound masking, and free parking.

Miles’ Houston panel includes Ron Bankston, Robins Brice, Wiley George, Gary McGowan, Hon. Mike Miller, Hon. Margaret Poissant, Hon. Robert Schaffer, and Louis Selig.

Miles was founded in 2000 and has 12 offices throughout the United States, including Atlanta, Birmingham, Boston, Charlotte, Columbia, Denver, Houston, Jacksonville, Nashville, Savannah, St. Louis, and Tampa.

The newly promoted Partners are Shane Devins, Kristen Berry, Gary Stapleton, and Sandra Lee. CEC also announced its first-ever Counsel class, comprised of Brett Martino, Shae Harvey, Todd Larsen, Sally Huang, Alex Smorczewski, Aretha DiClemente, Anastasia Arsenio, Jonah Brotman, Michael Davey, Brent Schoradt, and Brad Alexander.

“These promotions reflect how far the firm has come and how intentionally it is building for the future,” said Zach Crowley, Partner. “CEC is well-positioned to continue growing alongside its clients and the clean energy industry as a whole.”

A Boutique Built for the Energy Transition

Clean Energy Counsel was founded with a singular focus on the clean energy industry, created to serve developers, investors, utilities, and emerging technology companies navigating the commercial and regulatory realities of renewable and sustainable infrastructure projects. From its inception, the firm set out to offer an alternative to traditional full-service law firms by combining deep sector fluency with practical, transaction-focused legal counsel.

Over the past several years, CEC has experienced sustained and deliberate growth aligned with the accelerating energy transition. Today, the firm consists of 44 attorneys and five administrative professionals, advising clients across the full lifecycle of clean energy projects nationwide. While many firms have expanded through mergers or diversification into adjacent practice areas, CEC has remained purpose-built around clean energy, allowing it to scale while preserving subject-matter depth and continuity of client service.

Compared to larger firms where clean energy practices are often one component of a broader platform, CEC operates as a fully integrated clean energy boutique. Its attorneys routinely compete with significantly larger firms on complex, first-of-their-kind transactions, offering clients senior-level attention, institutional knowledge, and efficiency that reflects decades of collective industry experience.

Partner Promotions Strengthen Core Capabilities

Each of the newly promoted Partners has played a central role in building CEC’s market-leading practice and expanding its capabilities across development, real estate, offtake, financing, and M&A.

Kristen Berry advises renewable energy developers across utility-scale, commercial, and industrial, and distributed generation markets. Her practice spans development-stage and commercial agreements, including power purchase agreements, virtual PPAs and hedging arrangements, EPC and O&M contracts, REC transactions, energy services agreements, equipment supply and build-transfer structures, and EV charging master services agreements. She has helped advance several gigawatts of solar, wind, and energy storage projects nationwide.

Shane Devins focuses on the real estate and land use aspects of renewable and sustainable infrastructure projects. He advises on title and survey matters, entitlements, leasing, acquisitions and dispositions, and the development and financing of large-scale solar, wind, and storage assets. His practice also includes joint ventures, M&A transactions, and cross-border investments, as well as work on sustainable agriculture and water conservation projects.

Gary Stapleton is known for his strategic approach to clean energy transactions, representing developers, investors, and emerging technology companies across solar, wind, battery storage, biomass, and waste-to-fuel projects. He also advises on infrastructure and real estate preservation initiatives and on single-asset and portfolio acquisitions in the United States and internationally.

Sandra Lee represents borrowers, lenders, tax equity investors, and buyers and sellers of clean energy assets. Her experience advising both sponsors and financing parties provides a balanced perspective that informs pragmatic guidance and efficient execution on complex transactions.

“These promotions reflect both the depth of the firm’s talent and the strength of the clean energy industry,” said Brad DeJean, Founding Partner of Clean Energy Counsel. “Promoting four partners at the same time signals confidence in our people, our clients, and the continued growth of the energy transition.”

Inaugural Counsel Class Formalizes Senior Leadership

CEC’s first-ever Counsel class recognizes attorneys who play a critical role in leading complex matters, managing deal teams, mentoring colleagues, and serving as trusted advisors to clients across the renewable energy and sustainable technology sectors.

“This class of Counsel promotions shows the depth of the firm’s senior bench,” said Jordan Dansby, Partner. “Each of these attorneys can lead deals in their respective subject matter areas, train and mentor colleagues, and provide world-class service to clients.”

CEC’s Counsels routinely manage transactions from start to finish, oversee client relationships, and advise on matters spanning development, project finance, M&A, tax equity, offtake arrangements, regulatory issues, and emerging clean energy technologies. Their collective experience allows the firm to handle transactions of any size or complexity with efficiency and strategic insight.

“Our Counsel class consists of attorneys who are dominant in their areas of specialty,” said Kristen Berry, Partner. “Their knowledge and experience make them highly sought after by our clients, and the Counsel title recognizes the leadership they already bring to the firm.”

A Long-Term Leadership Model

The Counsel role at Clean Energy Counsel is designed as a long-term leadership position rather than a mandatory step toward partnership. Some Counsels may ultimately pursue partnership, while others will remain in the role throughout their careers. Each path is equally valued and essential to the firm’s success.

CEC is intentionally not an up-or-out firm. Instead, it emphasizes sustainable growth, mentorship, and professional development, ensuring that clients benefit from stable, experienced teams and that attorneys can build long-term careers aligned with the firm’s mission.

Positioned for Continued Growth

With expanded Partner and Counsel leadership, Clean Energy Counsel enters 2026 with a durable platform built to support clients through the next phase of the energy transition. As projects become more complex and markets continue to evolve, the firm remains focused on delivering technically sophisticated, commercially practical advice grounded in deep industry knowledge.

The May 19, 2020, failure of the Edenville Dam, followed by the overtopping of the Sanford Dam, led to catastrophic flooding across Midland, Saginaw, Arenac, Gladwin, and Losco counties. Nearly 11,000 residents were forced to evacuate, and more than 2,500 homes and buildings were damaged or destroyed. Damages have been estimated at over $1 billion, according to court filings.

Sommers Schwartz, based in Detroit, represents plaintiffs in the consolidated litigation pending before Hon. James Robert Redford in the Michigan Court of Claims. The lawsuits allege that state agencies, including the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), engaged in actions and omissions that substantially contributed to the dam’s failure, resulting in devastating losses for thousands of Michiganders.

Central to the plaintiffs’ case is the testimony of William Sturtevant, a professional engineer and accomplished dam safety expert. In a recent opinion and order, Judge Redford denied the state’s motion to bar Sturtevant’s testimony, finding that his report and qualifications meet Michigan’s standards for expert evidence. The court’s analysis relied on the Michigan Rules of Evidence and key legal precedents, including the U.S. Supreme Court’s Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals, Inc., which guides the admissibility of scientific and technical expert testimony.

In his order, Judge Redford stated, “Sturtevant’s opinions easily satisfy this standard. Defendants acknowledge, and the Court agrees, that Sturtevant is qualified as an expert in dam safety and regulation whose testimony in this area is based on methods and procedures that are well-recognized in his field.” The court emphasized that the role of the judge at this stage is to act as a gatekeeper, ensuring that expert opinions presented at trial are both relevant and reliable, but not to weigh competing evidence before trial.

The opinion further noted that Sturtevant’s declaration spans 22 pages and addresses technical questions central to the case, including the extent of state knowledge about the dam’s hazardous condition and the regulatory actions taken leading up to the disaster. Plaintiffs allege, as detailed in court documents, that state regulators “willfully and with reckless disregard” ignored escalating risks, compounding the danger to the public and ultimately contributing to the dam’s collapse.

The court rejected the state’s arguments that the expert report’s form was insufficient, writing, “Simply put, the fact that plaintiffs submit Sturtevant’s expert report in the form of a declaration does not support exclusion of Sturtevant’s testimony at trial or another sanction under MCR 2.313.”

As the litigation advances, residents and legal observers await further developments. Sommers Schwartz attorney Jason Thompson, a lead trial attorney for the plaintiffs, urged community members to contact their representatives in the Michigan Senate and House of Representatives. “The people of these communities deserve meaningful compensation for the disruption and loss they have endured,” Thompson said. “The legal process is a critical avenue for ensuring those responsible are held to account, and that the people impacted by this disaster can rebuild their lives.”

Thursday’s “Washed Away in Edenville” feature on Local 4 News is expected to provide a comprehensive look at the disaster and its aftermath, including community stories, investigative reporting, and a summary of the ongoing litigation. The segment comes as the case gains significant momentum, with the court’s recent Daubert ruling ensuring that a key component of the plaintiffs’ evidence will be heard at trial.

The consolidated litigation represents one of the largest and most complex inverse condemnation actions in Michigan history. Plaintiffs seek compensation under a cause of action that, according to court records, provides a remedy for property owners when government actions substantially diminish property value without a formal exercise of eminent domain powers.

The Edenville Dam litigation has broader implications for the state’s infrastructure policies and regulatory oversight. As the court noted, the reliability and credibility of expert testimony will ultimately be determined by the court, following a full presentation of the facts and evidence at trial which will be live-streamed on YouTube for the public to view.

Local 4 News’ “Washed Away in Edenville” will air Thursday, Nov. 13, at 5:30 p.m., providing the public with timely updates on the disaster, its enduring impact on Michigan families, and the ongoing pursuit of justice. Viewers are encouraged to tune in to learn more about the legal and human dimensions of this unprecedented event.

Court documents and filings remain available for public review as the litigation continues. Sommers Schwartz remains committed to advocating for affected residents and ensuring that their voices are heard throughout the legal process.

CASE INFORMATION
David Krieger, et al. v. Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, et al. Michigan Court of Claims
Case No. 20-000094-MM and related consolidated cases.

Vision Zero, Philadelphia’s citywide traffic safety strategy, aims to eliminate all traffic-related deaths and severe injuries by 2030. The plan prioritizes improvements at more than 90 intersections and corridors considered the most hazardous based on historical crash data and community input. However, the new analysis from MyPhillyLawyer suggests the city’s current list may miss a significant number of intersections where high numbers of accidents, injuries and near-misses occur.

The firm’s review analyzed crash reports, Philadelphia Parking Authority reports, and Pennsylvania Department of Transportation records, and then cross-referenced with media coverage of accidents throughout the city. MyPhillyLawyer’s analysis of The Most Dangerous Intersections in Philadelphia uncovered 15 additional intersections that were locations of concern.

While none of these locations currently appear on the Vision Zero plan, MyPhillyLawyer’s report estimates that as many as 120 crashes may have taken place over the last three years. One of the intersections on MyPhillyLawyer’s list, Roosevelt Boulevard & Welsh Road, was the site of a tragic accident in August, which took the life of a driver and a pedestrian.

Dean I. Weitzman, managing attorney at MyPhillyLawyer, said in a statement, “We undertook this data review in response to ongoing concerns raised by our clients and members of the Philadelphia community who have been injured in traffic accidents, sometimes in locations that do not receive public safety attention. The findings show that more comprehensive and real-time data analysis is needed to ensure that safety initiatives such as Vision Zero address all of the city’s most hazardous intersections.”

Philadelphia’s Vision Zero plan, first launched in 2017, is updated periodically with citywide crash statistics, but the process for adding new intersections to the “High Injury Network” can take several years. City officials have cited limited resources and the need to prioritize areas with the most severe records of injury and death. Data from the city indicate that more than 100 people are killed or seriously injured in traffic crashes annually in Philadelphia, making it one of the nation’s most dangerous major cities for motorists and pedestrians.

MyPhillyLawyer’s findings align with concerns expressed by several local advocacy groups and neighborhood associations, which have called for more dynamic and transparent updates to the Vision Zero plan.

The law firm is not affiliated with the city’s Vision Zero task force. But the firm hopes that the findings of this report recommend increased use of temporary safety installations, such as curb extensions and flexible bollards, and calls for a review process that allows members of the public to submit intersections for evaluation in real time.

Weitzman noted, “Our hope is that this information will support ongoing efforts to make Philadelphia’s streets safer for everyone, from drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists alike. The data show that danger does not stop at the boundaries of the High Injury Network, and neither should our commitment to public safety.”

For more details on the intersections identified and the full analysis, visit https://www.myphillylawyer.com/practice-areas/vehicle-accidents/the-most-dangerous-intersections-and-roads-in-philadelphia/.

Liana Jones joins Climate Edge with a strong background in real estate and land use law, having advised clients on complex property transactions and permitting strategies for renewable energy projects. Her experience navigating regulatory frameworks and securing entitlements makes her a key asset for clients seeking to build and expand clean energy infrastructure.

Gillian Flick adds depth to the firm’s real estate capabilities with her experience in transactional law and project development. Her background includes working with developers and municipalities to facilitate land use approvals and negotiating agreements critical to the success of renewable energy projects.

Oluwafemi Aborisade brings a multidisciplinary approach to environmental and real estate law, with a focus on supporting sustainable development. His work has included advising on site acquisition, permitting, and compliance for solar and wind energy projects, helping clients align legal strategy with environmental goals.

“We are excited to welcome Liana, Gillian and Femi to Climate Edge,” said Paul Lacourciere, founding attorney of Climate Edge Law Group. “Each of them brings exceptional talent and dedication to our mission. Their addition reflects our commitment to providing developer clients with comprehensive legal support—from site acquisition and permitting to project execution. We are privileged to be practicing with such quality people and exceptional attorneys.”

Climate Edge Law Group continues to expand its footprint as a leading legal partner for renewable energy developers, offering specialized services in real estate, permitting, water rights, water quality, energy regulatory policy, procurement, and environmental compliance.

For more information about Climate Edge Law Group and its services, please visit www.celawgroup.com.

The Center also welcomes George Mykulak as its new Senior Litigation Director. With over 40 years of experience in complex civil litigation, Mykulak will lead the Center’s in-house litigation, including overseeing the Center’s first two initiated cases focused on disability rights and foster care reform. These efforts demonstrate the Center’s continued commitment to addressing critical social justice issues through strategic legal action.

The Center is further pleased to announce that James Rollins, partner at Nelson Mullins, and Charlyn Stanberry, Vice President of Government Relations at the National Association of Broadcasters, have joined its board of directors enhancing our experienced and committed board that continues to guide the Center.

“We are excited to bring together the strengths of the Barbara McDowell Foundation and the Barbara McDowell Public Interest Law Center,” said Jerry Hartman, President and Founder of the Barbara McDowell Social Justice Center. “Now more than ever we are equipped with our recent additions to continue our fight for social justice and multiply our efforts by bringing our own direct litigation combined with our making grants to other nonprofits for litigating similar cases.”

Since its inception, the Center has awarded grants totaling nearly $2 million to 55 organizations based in 22 different states all in support of their pursuing high-impact social justice litigation. The Center is named for Barabara McDowell, a well-regarded appellate litigator and social justice advocate, who had worked at the United States Solicitor General’s Office arguing Supreme Court cases and founded the Appellate Advocacy Project at the Legal Aid Society of Washington, D.C.  She died at age 56 from brain cancer. The Center was founded by her husband, Jerry Hartman, in her honor.

With strong leadership, expanded capacity, and a deepened commitment to litigation and grantmaking, the Barbara McDowell Social Justice Center enters this next chapter poised to drive meaningful, lasting change in the fight against systemic injustice.

Those who wish to support the Center’s fight for social justice, can donate at BMJC. For more information about the Barbara McDowell Social Justice Center’s mission and active cases, visit www.mcdowellsocialjusticecenter.org.

The plaintiffs, represented by Sommers Schwartz, P.C., allege that EGLE’s oversight and regulatory failures contributed to the catastrophic collapse of the Edenville Dam in May 2020, which led to widespread flooding and property damage across Midland and Gladwin counties. The lawsuit claims inverse condemnation, asserting that the state’s actions effectively deprived property owners of the use and value of their land without just compensation.

EGLE sought to dismiss the case, arguing that the plaintiffs failed to produce evidence that supported their case, and that no trial was therefore necessary.  However, Judge Redford found that the plaintiffs had produced sufficient evidence that, if accepted, would establish a claim of inverse condemnation. As a result, the case will proceed to trial.

“The Court reviewed over 2,500 pages of evidence, including several expert witness reports and scientific studies/reports.  The State can no longer claim there is insufficient evidence to establish they were a cause of the Edenville Dam failure.” said Jason J. Thompson, senior shareholder at Sommers Schwartz and co-lead class counsel for the plaintiffs.  He described upcoming events, saying, “The trial of this case will reveal just how bad their key people messed up, essentially doing nothing to defuse a ticking time bomb sitting right in front of them.”  

The Edenville Dam failure displaced thousands of residents, destroyed homes and businesses, and caused extensive environmental damage. Investigations revealed that EGLE had been aware of the dam’s deficiencies but failed to take adequate action to prevent the collapse.

Michigan Court of Claims
David Krieger et al. v. Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy
20-000094-MM

Sarah’s practice focuses on representing individuals and businesses in matters related to permitting, litigation, dispute resolution, and other aspects of real property, land use, and zoning.

Before joining Norfolk Beier PLLC, Sarah spent nearly 20 years as an attorney with New York State’s Adirondack Park Agency, where she managed the interpretation and administration of the Park’s environmental and land-use laws.  Sarah was responsible for guiding applicants, employees, and board members through the review process for the most complex subdivision and development proposals presented to the Agency.  When these matters resulted in litigation, Sarah worked closely with the Office of the Attorney General to develop strategies, draft documents, and prepare for court.

During her time at the Agency, Sarah also wrote and edited countless permits and variances, settlement agreements, policies, press statements, contracts, publications, and legislative and regulatory proposals.  She regularly presented at public meetings and planning conferences on complex land use topics, advised municipalities on interpreting their zoning codes, and collaborated with stakeholders to resolve differences and implement solutions on various issues.  To improve consistency, efficiency, and fairness in the Agency’s review process, Sarah revised and streamlined numerous documents, including the templates for jurisdictional inquiry responses, subdivision and development permits, area variances, and settlement agreements.  Additionally, she developed a program to interpret and explain the Agency’s laws through internal guidance for employees, informational flyers, and public presentations tailored for landowners, local government officials, businesses, and contractors.

 Sarah has long been a leading expert on the complicated system of zoning and land use laws that apply within the Adirondack Park.  She enjoys challenges and brings sophisticated analytical, writing, and communication skills to her work.

 Sarah is actively involved in the community, serving as a board member for the Adirondack Mountain Club and a former member of the North Country SPCA and Dewey Mountain Friends.  She is a member of the New York State Bar Association.  Since 2017, Sarah has also taught yoga classes in Saranac Lake and Lake Placid.

 Sarah is originally from Baltimore, Maryland.  She received a B.A. from Dartmouth College, an M.A. from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and a J.D. from the Georgetown University Law Center.  Before and during law school, Sarah worked in New York City and Washington, DC, for the firms Arnold & Porter and DLA Piper.

This year’s agenda includes crowd favorites like The Essex County Sheriff’s Department with their K-9 Police Dogs, exotic and unusual animals from Curious Creatures, and The MSPCA’s barnyard birds. Also on the schedule, Sweet Paws Rescue with dogs for adoption, Nibi the beaver, Senator Bruce Tarr, and an appearance from NBC 10 Boston’s Weather Warrior or Storm Ranger. There will also be vendor tables, a live DJ, face painting, and a visit from The Easter Bunny.

“It’s always fun and rewarding to host another Animal Rights Day,” said MSLAW Dean Michael L. Coyne. “After 17 years, it just keeps getting better and it’s a great tradition for our community.”

As part of the Animal Right’s Day celebration, MSLAW will award its 2025 Humane-itarian Award to Brian Rambarran, M.D., from Rambarran Rescues, Inc. Every month, Dr. Rambarran takes to the skies, using his passion for flying to rescue dogs in high-kill shelters and deliver them to rescue organizations who will give the vulnerable animals a chance at a new life.

“His story, and his actions are nothing short of heroic,” says MSLAW Assistant Dean Diane Sullivan. “It will be an honor to thank him in person for the work that he does.”

The Massachusetts School of Law is located at 500 Federal Street, Andover, MA.

Learn more at https://shadowfundne.org/animal-rights-day-2025/.

Jeff Harris, known for his deep knowledge of energy law and environmental permitting, joins with a remarkable track record in helping clients navigate complex regulatory landscapes for innovative projects. Samantha Neumyer brings her expertise in energy facility siting, land use, and operational compliance, offering a comprehensive approach to energy project development. Chase Maxwell, an expert in regulatory compliance, contributes a pragmatic understanding of the challenges faced by energy generators and product manufacturers doing business in California. Chris Sanders, with his stellar reputation in water quality law and environmental compliance, adds invaluable insights and problem resolution into water resource management and related legal matters.

Paul Lacourciere, founding attorney of Climate Edge Law Group, shared his enthusiasm: “The addition of Jeff, Samantha, Chase, and Chris reflects our commitment to assembling a team of like-minded professionals who share a unified vision for practicing law and delivering unparalleled service to our clients in the energy field. Their collaborative energy and dedication to fostering sustainable solutions align seamlessly with our mission to address the pressing challenges our clients face in connection with climate and transitioning our infrastructure to a more sustainable system.”

With the collective efforts of its growing team, Climate Edge Law Group remains at the forefront of addressing climate-related legal issues, offering tailored support to clients seeking success in today’s dynamic regulatory environment.

The IFTN, founded in 1990 in response to the farm crisis, plays a crucial role in supporting farm families during the complex process of business succession planning. This organization emphasizes the strategic transfer of farm ownership, management, and assets, ensuring the continuity of the family business under new leadership. Given the familial nature of many farm operations, challenges such as communication, management, and financial planning are common, and the IFTN provides vital resources to address these issues.

Straub’s certification aligns with her professional focus on agricultural law, where she serves as a legal advocate for farmers and agricultural enterprises. Admitted to practice in all Pennsylvania state courts, as well as the U.S. District Courts for the Eastern and Middle Districts of Pennsylvania, Straub’s legal acumen is well-established.

Straub’s recent certification as a Farm Transition Coordinator enhances her ability to guide farm families through the intricacies of succession planning, a focus of her agricultural law practice which involves not only the transfer of assets but also decision-making responsibilities. The IFTN’s training further equips her with the skills necessary to facilitate comprehensive planning processes for farm businesses that helps clients reach both business and family goals in their transfers.

Her roots in Snyder County and her active engagement with the agricultural sector reflect a lifelong dedication to both legal advocacy and community service. Straub’s certification marks a significant step in her ongoing commitment to the agricultural community, offering tailored legal solutions for the unique challenges faced by farm families.

Mangione, 26, faces an uphill battle as New York demands his extradition from Pennsylvania, where he was arrested on firearm and forgery charges. According to the U.S. Constitution, states must surrender fugitives to the state from where they fled when formally requested. Yet, Mangione’s legal team is poised to challenge the request, potentially leading to a protracted legal skirmish that could delay proceedings by weeks.

The extradition process, rooted in Article IV Section 2 of the Constitution, aims to ensure that individuals cannot evade legal consequences by simply crossing state lines. Although Mangione’s charges stem from an alleged crime in Manhattan, his apprehension took place nearly 300 miles away in Altoona, Pa. The typical extradition process involves governors of the respective states corresponding to validate the request.

Peter Brill, who has been closely monitoring the case, provided commentary on the intricacies of the extradition process. “In instances where the accused is facing grave charges in multiple states, there can be a tense tug-of-war,” Brill notes, “as local prosecutors seek to deliver justice in their jurisdiction first.”

While disputes over extradition timing can occur, outright refusals by governors are virtually unheard of. Legal experts, including Jules Epstein, a law professor at Temple University, clarify that many defendants choose not to contest extradition to expedite the legal process. An extradition contest entails an evidentiary hearing to establish the identity of the accused and the validity of the charges from the requesting state.

In Mangione’s case, the Pennsylvania district attorney has indicated a willingness to defer his state’s charges in favor of New York’s more severe accusations. This prioritization is common, particularly when one state’s charges significantly outweigh the other’s in severity.

The recent overturning of Roe v. Wade has introduced new complexities regarding interstate legal matters. Around a dozen governors have publicly opposed extraditing individuals facing criminal charges related to abortion bans, although such a case has yet to emerge.

Legal experts, however, consider Mangione’s fight against extradition to be a delay tactic rather than a serious hurdle.

Read Isabelle Taft’s article, What Is Extradition? Can Fighting It Help the Midtown Shooting Suspect? on NYTimes.com.

“I am thrilled to be joining Stacey Evans Law,” said Bowers, who most recently served as Senior Attorney at the Southern Environmental Law Center (SELC). “I have seen firsthand the harms inflicted to property and lives by failures to comply with our environmental laws, including harms from ‘forever chemicals’ and other mishandled pollutants. The gravity of the harms faced by those who had no part in creating or releasing these often highly dangerous chemicals to our air, soil and water will require experienced, compassionate legal counsel who will not back down from a fight to hold responsible parties accountable and secure justice for our clients. I couldn’t be more proud to join the team at Stacey Evans Law, one of the premier environmental law firms in the Southeast.”

Bowers professional accomplishments over the past two decades include:

• Represented both plaintiffs and defendants in environmental, product liability and toxic tort litigation, involving cumulative amounts in controversy exceeding $1 billion.

• Lead counsel for plaintiff in the first two Federal environmental civil enforcement lawsuits in Georgia history involving PFAS contamination that have culminated in an enforceable federal court order, with the second awaiting entry by the Court as of the date of this writing.

• Lead counsel in a civil enforcement lawsuit in Federal District Court against a coal-fired utility in North Carolina, brought on behalf of citizen environmental and social advocacy groups arising from contamination from the improper disposal of coal ash, culminating in a 2020 settlement in parallel proceedings requiring the excavation of nearly 12 million tons of this industrial waste to lined landfill disposal or beneficial reuse.

• Trial and appellate counsel for plaintiff in the first federal civil enforcement case to reach trial in the nation involving the disposal of coal ash at a retired coal-fired power plant in Virginia that was polluting the adjacent river with arsenic. Following enactment of a state law following that trial, the entirety of the unlined coal ash impoundments in the state were required to be excavated to lined landfill disposal.

The attorneys at Stacey Evans Law have a long, successful history of securing justice for vulnerable populations against those who think the rules don’t apply to them—whether healthcare giants, media, or corporate polluters.

The firm was founded by Stacey Evans, an attorney with over 20 years of experience who also serves as the State Representative for District 57.

“Clean air and water are among our most fundamental rights as citizens,” said Evans. “When corporations trample those rights, Stacey Evans Law is ready to come to the defense of those who are impacted. Chris Bowers has the expertise and track record of success to take this important work to the next level.”

Email: info@staceyevanslaw.com Contact: Amy Morton

Website: www.staceyevanslaw.com Phone: 478-747-7450

In the lawsuit (1:24-cv-02302), attorney Nicole A. Westbrook, of Jones & Keller, P.C., states Watson has never used prostitutes, has no criminal record, and has never been convicted of a crime.

Elsaden is Watson’s neighbor at the C Lazy U dude ranch in Granby. On-line, she’s listed as a General Partner of Prestige International, LLC based in Torrance, CA, and as the on-air spokesperson for Ignite USA, which her husband Sami Elsaden founded in 2001 and grew into a $350 million per year business. Ignite touts itself as “the North American market leader in environmentally safe reusable beverage containers.” The company is mostly known for its Contigo brand of mugs, which were originally sold through Starbucks, and then Target stores.

Watson founded Northstar Commercial Partners, a national real estate investment company, 24 years ago. He first started visiting the ranch to spend time with family almost 20 years ago and entertain potential business prospects. During the past few years, Watson purchased land and built a second home on the ranch, and now lives there full-time.  According to court documents, Watson has invested a significant amount of time and money to build his family home at the C Lazy U Ranch in Granby. He has also used the property to conduct business including hosting investors, commercial real estate owners, tenants, brokers, lenders, his employees, and prospective business contacts.

According to the suit, the C Lazy U dude ranch is over 100 years old and is an all-inclusive resort that hosts guests from around the world. Conde Nast has named C Lazy U one of the top 10 resorts in the world for the past few years, and in 2018 it was named the best resort in Colorado. It was also selected as the winner of Oprah Daily’s inaugural 2024 Hotel O-Wards, Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for the ninth year in a row: top 500 Hotels worldwide, by Travel+Leisure, two Top Ten Awards by USA Today’s 2023 Best Readers’ Choice Awards, and many more.

“There is no doubt Defendant knew these statements were false when she made them and that she acted with malice in an effort to ruin Mr. Watson’s reputation, and destroy his opportunities and relationships,” the complaint states.

“Given the worldwide exposure that the ranch enjoys, usually with guests in attendance of means and who are leaders in many industries, such comments could have dramatic and long-lasting negative impacts for me personally and my companies,” Watson said.

The lawsuit outlines that Elsaden confronted Mr. Watson’s guests and made extremely defamatory remarks to at least seven people during an event at the ranch and subsequently out loud in a public restroom for anyone to hear, though Watson believes even more people heard them, and this may have been occurring at other times. In addition to damages, he’s seeking an injunction prohibiting Elsaden from repeating the claims, with a penalty of $10 million per occurrence.

According to the complaint, Elsaden’s defamatory statements have caused Watson severe emotional distress and made him hesitant to bring family, friends and business contacts to the ranch for concern they may also be accosted.

“I bought land and built a home at the ranch to enjoy the beautiful Colorado Mountains, and all that C Lazy U Ranch has to offer,” Watson said. “My family and I chose the ranch for peace and enjoyment, and to help build personal and professional relationships, not to be ridiculed and defamed by neighbors, who elect to state lies behind our backs to our guests. There comes a time in life where you decide ‘enough is enough’, we have a right to enjoy the ranch and life in peace, as much as anyone else.”

“Laura Elsaden must be held accountable for her slanderous and defamatory statements and the destruction of Mr. Watson’s name, reputation, business, and business prospects,” the suit concludes.

CASE INFORMATION 

The United States District Court for the District of Colorado
Brian Watson v. Laura Elsaden
Case No. 1:24-cv-02302

”Prabhdeep’s proven track record of growing and leading high-performing teams and his deep understanding of scaling operations will be instrumental as we continue to expand our market reach and deliver exceptional value to litigators,” said Steno CEO Greg Hong. “This year our business grew by 119% YoY, and we have launched industry-leading products, including Transcript Genius. With his extensive operations experience across a range of technology sectors, Prabhdeep is ideally suited to lead Steno’s next evolution of delivering excellent experiences to our clients through innovative technology and white-glove service, and we are thrilled to welcome him to the Steno leadership team.”

Singh’s appointment reflects Steno’s commitment to building a world-class leadership team with diverse backgrounds who can continue to drive over 100% YoY growth. With Singh’s operations expertise on board, Steno is well-positioned to capitalize on the massive opportunity to improve the delivery of legal support services through a focus on purpose-built technology, a concierge approach to service, and industry-changing payment options.

“I’m thrilled to join Steno at this pivotal moment of rapid growth,” Singh stated. “The company’s groundbreaking technology is revolutionizing the way litigators handle and analyze crucial information. With my experience, I’m confident in my ability to contribute to Steno’s expansion.”

“Greg’s leadership and the team’s unwavering dedication to delivering top-tier solutions to the legal services market drew me to Steno. The strategic approach Steno’s leadership has taken to leverage the company’s exceptional product-market fit, exemplified by the launch of Transcript Genius, Steno Connect, and DelayPay, is both audacious and inspiring. These innovative solutions address longstanding pains for litigators, demonstrating Steno’s commitment to excellence in legal technology and litigation support services.”

Singh is a seasoned technology executive with a proven track record of leading operational excellence in high-growth environments. He has held leadership positions at various technology companies, including Clover, WeWork, and Uber. He most recently served as Operating Partner at Armory Square Ventures, where he was a board member, portfolio advisor, and member of its investment committee. His prior roles also include serving as Global Head of Marketplace at WeWork, Head of Enterprise at Uber Eats, and Chief Growth Officer at Clover Health.

Singh’s appointment rounds out Steno’s executive team, which includes Greg Hong (Co-Founder and CEO), Dylan Ruga (Co-Founder, President, and CLO), Dan Anderson (Co-Founder, CTO, and CISO), and Carly Savar (General Counsel). Hong, Ruga, and Anderson co-founded Steno in 2018 with a mission to revolutionize the legal support service industry by reimagining the traditional court reporting agency model.

Background
In the landmark 2020 Michigan Supreme Court Case, Rafaeli v. Oakland County (Docket No. 156849), the Court, voting 7-0, reversed a Court of Appeals decision and found that local governments cannot retain surplus proceeds from the sale of a home that had been foreclosed upon for failure to pay property taxes (i.e. tax foreclosure). To do so was deemed “unlawful” and an unconstitutional taking without just compensation under the Michigan Constitution. The United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit followed in 2022, and by 2023, the Supreme Court of the United States unanimously declared the practice unconstitutional in an identical case arising out of Hennepin County, Minnesota.

The Michigan Supreme Court then took up the question of whether tax foreclosed property owners who lost surplus proceeds before the Court decided the Rafaeli case – that is if the taking occurred prior to the 2020 decision – could pursue a claim for a return of their money against the counties. On July 29, 2024, in another 7-0 decision, the Michigan Supreme Court – after hearing arguments on related cases subsequent to Rafaeli – ruled that the 2020 decision must be applied retroactively, giving full constitutional protection to an even larger group of citizens.

Following the 2020 ruling in Rafaeli, Michigan counties, including Oakland County, where the Rafaeli case originated, began reaching settlements in class action lawsuits to return the surplus funds to citizens. Oakland County created a $38 million fund to repay surplus proceeds and began the repayment process in the summer of 2023. In another settlement, nearly all the counties on the west side of Michigan have agreed to return surplus funds to their citizens.

Where’s the money?
In the meantime, four years after the first Michigan State Supreme Court ruling and the subsequent class action lawsuit demanding repayment, Wayne County digs in its heels, with Evans and Sabree remaining defiant and refusing to return to Wayne County residents – their constituents – the more than $120 million in ill-gotten funds.

“Oakland County did the right thing in a timely manner. Wayne County has done nothing but dodge its financial responsibility and harm some of its most vulnerable residents, particularly in Detroit, where the bulk of the surplus funds were illegally taken,” attorney Aaron Cox said.

“The Michigan Supreme Court has ruled twice that counties cannot lawfully keep one dime beyond what was owed by foreclosed owners in back taxes and related penalties and fees,” attorney Philip Ellison of Outside Legal Counsel, PLC, who is also involved in the class action lawsuit, added. “Instead of complying, Wayne County stalls, prevents access to the records, ignores FOIA requests, and tries to dismiss the class action to avoid its obligations repay its taxpayers. When Judge Parker (Judge of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan), issues a ruling, they fight it. They appeal. We will not stop until the citizens of Wayne County get what is owed them.”

We are also pleased to congratulate Michael Russell who was named a 2025 “Lawyer of the Year” for the “Litigation – Labor and Employment” practice area in Nashville. This honor is awarded to only one lawyer in each practice area and community, and reflects Michael’s standing in the legal field among his peers.

The following neutrals have been selected by their peers for their outstanding contributions in various practice areas:

Sally Akins, Savannah

• Mediation
• Personal Injury Litigation – Defendants
• Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs

Marc Barré, Atlanta

• Personal Injury Litigation – Defendants

Leesa A. Bohler, Savannah

• Litigation – Insurance
• Workers’ Compensation Law – Employers

Musa Farmand, Atlanta

• Personal Injury Litigation – Defendants
• Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs

Jami Farris, Charlotte

• Commercial Litigation

Eric Frisch, Atlanta

• Litigation – Health Care
• Medical Malpractice Law – Defendants

David Nutter, Atlanta

• Arbitration
• Mediation

Roy Paul, Savannah

• Arbitration
• Mediation

Michael Russell, Nashville

• Employment Law – Individuals
• Labor Law – Union
• Litigation – Labor and Employment

Jack Slover, Atlanta

• Medical Malpractice Law – Defendants

Rex Smith, Atlanta

• Arbitration
• Insurance Law
• Mediation

Luis Viera, Tampa

• Personal Injury Litigation – Defendants

Miles remains committed to providing top-tier dispute resolution services, and this recognition highlights the exceptional talent and dedication of our neutrals. We congratulate all our honored professionals and thank them for their continued commitment to excellence.

For more information about our services or to schedule a mediation or arbitration with one of our award-winning neutrals, please visit our website at milesadr.com.

Wetzel, known for her in-depth knowledge of entity selection and formation and farm asset transition, will provide essential guidance on the steps necessary to continue a successful dairy business across generations.

The conference’s theme, “Future-Proofing Our Farms,” underscores the need for proactive measures to safeguard the economic stability of the dairy industry. Attendees can anticipate a comprehensive program designed to equip them with the necessary tools and knowledge to navigate market uncertainties and capitalize on emerging trends. Wetzel’s session promises to deliver real world insights into the successful transition of dairy operations.

To learn more about the 2024 Dairy Financial and Risk Management Conference, including registration details and a complete agenda, interested parties are encouraged to visit the event website. As the organizing body is the best source for current and comprehensive event information, inquiries can also be directed to the Center for Dairy Excellence for further assistance.

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain a competitive edge through insightful discussions and networking with peers. Mark your calendar for September 11th and be part of shaping a robust future for the dairy industry.

For more information, please visit the website:
https://www.centerfordairyexcellence.org/about-the-center/upcoming-events/event/2024-dairy-financial-and-risk-management-conference-future-proofing-our-farms/