The Legal Description - Daily News

Appeals court hears easement dispute between landowner, title policy provider

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 18:10:04 GMT

Appeals court hears easement dispute between landowner, title policy provider - A property owner appealed a district court decision favoring his title insurance provider, which had previously denied him coverage in an easement dispute with his neighbors. In his appeal, the plaintiff claims his title company is liable for bad faith damages, among other arguments.

Expert perspectives on how fraud is changing real estate transactions

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 18:06:18 GMT

Expert perspectives on how fraud is changing real estate transactions - Identity Theft Resource Center President and CEO Eva Velasquez shared some time with the Keys to Real Estate podcast to explain how the threats of wire fraud and business compromise have evolved, as well as how organizations can adapt.

New York Supreme Court urged to drop AG’s lawsuit against major payment platform

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 18:03:18 GMT

New York Supreme Court urged to drop AG’s lawsuit against major payment platform - Several national banks have filed a brief advising the New York Supreme Court to dismiss a lawsuit filed by New York Attorney General Letitia James against Early Warning Services, the company that operates the electronic payment platform Zelle, for allegedly failing to properly protect users from fraud.

Missouri enacts reform to insurance payout regulations

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 18:01:48 GMT

Missouri enacts reform to insurance payout regulations - A bill signed into law on July 9 has introduced the “Missouri Residential Sale Leaseback Protection Act” and the “Uniform Mortgage Modification Act,” which amend several sections of state law relating to real estate transactions, penalty provisions and severability clauses.

ALTA seeks public comment on updated best practices framework

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 18:00:13 GMT

ALTA seeks public comment on updated best practices framework - The American Land Title Association has opened a public comment period on proposed revisions to its best practices framework, marking the next step in the development of a resource it refers to as Best Practices 5.0.

Treasury’s CDFI Fund warns of imposter scams, false communications

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 17:58:38 GMT

Treasury’s CDFI Fund warns of imposter scams, false communications - The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund is warning the public to be aware of fraudulent social media profiles, email accounts, text messages and phone numbers that attempt to impersonate or otherwise associate themselves with the CDFI Fund.

CPL risk factors increased in Q2 according to fraud analytics report

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 18:14:02 GMT

CPL risk factors increased in Q2 according to fraud analytics report - More validated data is needed to confirm who exactly is involved in real estate closing transactions, as suggested by new findings in FundingShield’s Q2 2026 Fraud Analytics Report. In the second quarter, discrepancies related to closing package letters reached 47.45 percent of letters, the report noted.

Cash App parent company settles with Maryland AG for $45 million

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 18:11:02 GMT

Cash App parent company settles with Maryland AG for $45 million - Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown’s office reached a $45 million settlement with Block, Inc., the operator of Cash App. The company had allegedly failed to adequately protect users against fraud and misled consumers about the app’s safety.

How to successfully mentor future women leaders

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 18:09:14 GMT

How to successfully mentor future women leaders - We caught up with Ashley Cook of Zoccam and Sheri Olsen of First American Trust, FSB, in advance of their October Research, LLC webinar titled “Next-Level Leadership: Mentoring the Next Generation of Women.”

Probate firm sues estate seller for failing to disclose pre-existing mortgage

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 18:05:21 GMT

Probate firm sues estate seller for failing to disclose pre-existing mortgage - During the probate process of an estate sale, an unsatisfied existing mortgage on the property was discovered, and the selling party was found to have failed to disclose knowledge of the pre-existing mortgage. The ensuing dispute was heard in federal court.

Title insurance rules part of Texas regulators’ efficiency review

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 18:03:55 GMT

Title insurance rules part of Texas regulators’ efficiency review - The Texas Department of Insurance, in cooperation with Gov. Greg Abbot’s Texas Regulatory Efficiency Office, is seeking stakeholder comments as part of its current regulatory efficiency review. Reforms to title insurance rules are expected to comprise part of the review.

Texas Department of Insurance announces new chief prosecutor

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 18:02:03 GMT

Texas Department of Insurance announces new chief prosecutor - After years as an embedded insurance fraud prosecutor for the Texas Department of Insurance in Dallas County, Patrick Cryer is beginning a new chapter in Austin as the department’s chief prosecutor and fraud counsel.

Hawaii high court reviews chain of title involving ‘royal’ lands

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 18:01:24 GMT

Hawaii high court reviews chain of title involving ‘royal’ lands - The Supreme Court of Hawai’i recently considered an appeal brought forward by an individual who had previously disputed chain of title with the parent company of a golf course and country club, alleging that the lands in question were royal holdings.

Lawmakers propose Puerto Rico Real Estate Regulation Act

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 17:59:19 GMT

Lawmakers propose Puerto Rico Real Estate Regulation Act - Legislators in the territory of Puerto Rico are considering a bill referred to as the Puerto Rico Real Estate Regulation Act which would establish a regulatory board, formally criminalize illegal real estate practices and more.

How a Supreme Court decision nearly upended the housing landscape

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 17:57:07 GMT

How a Supreme Court decision nearly upended the housing landscape - Tax lien sales have their own part to play in contributing to housing inventory, and that part could have taken on a radically different shape depending on the Supreme Court’s decision in the case of Pung v. Isabella County.

Arizona bans property ownership, remote surveillance by foreign adversaries

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 17:55:36 GMT

Arizona bans property ownership, remote surveillance by foreign adversaries - A bill signed into law by Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs on June 22 amended state law to prohibit foreign adversary nations or agents from purchasing, owning, leasing, or acquiring any substantial interest in real property in the state.

More than 3,000 California land scam victims receive $7M in restitution

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 17:54:05 GMT

More than 3,000 California land scam victims receive $7M in restitution - The California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation announced on July 7 that nearly 3,000 consumers, mainly from Filipino, Chinese, and Hispanic communities, will receive checks totaling over $7 million in restitution for securities fraud.

Montana regulators save consumers more than $18M through denied rate increases

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 17:52:18 GMT

Montana regulators save consumers more than $18M through denied rate increases - The office of Montana Commissioner of Securities and Insurance James Brown was able to save Montanans more than $18 million in Fiscal Year 2025-2026 by denying insurance rate increases, according to an announcement by Brown’s office.

Congress considers bill to create FEMA flood insurance information tool

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:07:38 GMT

Congress considers bill to create FEMA flood insurance information tool - A bill has been introduced to the U.S. House of Representatives that would, if enacted, require the Federal Emergency Management Agency administrator to create an online flood insurance information tool relating to the National Flood Insurance Program.

Judge rejects watchdog lawsuit against California insurance commissioner

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:05:42 GMT

Judge rejects watchdog lawsuit against California insurance commissioner - A dispute between California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara and Consumer Watchdog was settled on June 30, when a court order upheld Lara’s recent efforts to stabilize the state’s insurance market through two recent bulletins.

Rohit Chopra takes helm of California’s new consumer advocacy agency

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:03:20 GMT

Rohit Chopra takes helm of California’s new consumer advocacy agency - Gov. Gavin Newsom announced on July 1 that Rohit Chopra, former director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, had been sworn in as secretary of the newly-created California Business and Consumer Services Agency.

Alaska passes bill to update state transactions, records laws

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:01:53 GMT

Alaska passes bill to update state transactions, records laws - Lawmakers in Alaska have passed a comprehensive bill to update the terminology, definitions and procedures governing secure transactions and electronic records in the state, including delivery of electronic documents of title.

Financial firms fined $1.3 million by California regulators for excessive commissions

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:59:44 GMT

Financial firms fined $1.3 million by California regulators for excessive commissions - California’s Department of Financial Protection and Innovation announced on July 1 that five financial companies were being compelled to return more than $1.3 million to customers charged excessive commissions.

New York deed thief found guilty, faces up to 25 years in prison

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:58:07 GMT

New York deed thief found guilty, faces up to 25 years in prison - A New York jury has rendered a guilty verdict against a 63-year-old man for using fake deeds to steal two brownstones in Harlem valued at about $4.7 million, according to the office of New York Attorney General Letitia James.

Supreme Court consents to broader presidential authority over independent agencies

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 18:00:01 GMT

Supreme Court consents to broader presidential authority over independent agencies - More than 90 years of legal precedent on presidential authority over independent federal agencies, set by the 1935 decision in Humphrey’s Executor v. United States, was overturned on June 29 by a Supreme Court ruling.

Mismanaged foreclosure leads to breach of title, appeal by new owner

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 17:53:48 GMT

Mismanaged foreclosure leads to breach of title, appeal by new owner - A property in Aurora, Colo., was foreclosed by the local municipality which failed to notify the correct owner, leading to a court-ordered voided foreclosure and invalidated interests. The property’s new owner appealed the lower court decision.

Rhode Island enacts reform to mortgage servicer liquidity regulations

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 17:51:37 GMT

Rhode Island enacts reform to mortgage servicer liquidity regulations - Under the statutes of a law recently signed by Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee, mortgage servicers operating in the state will be required to adhere to updated capital, liquidity and accounting standards.

Michigan introduces bill to ban insurance price optimization

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 17:49:42 GMT

Michigan introduces bill to ban insurance price optimization - In early June, Michigan State Senate Democrats introduced legislation that would ban home insurance companies from using price optimization to set their rates.

Texas Department of Insurance issues compliance reminder on AI usage

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 17:48:09 GMT

Texas Department of Insurance issues compliance reminder on AI usage - In a recent bulletin, the Texas Department of Insurance reminded all regulated entities that they must ensure their decisions and actions, especially those influenced by advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, comply with existing insurance laws and regulations.

New York AG announces arrest related to deed theft from woman with dementia

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 17:46:39 GMT

New York AG announces arrest related to deed theft from woman with dementia - New York Attorney General Letitia James announced on June 25 the arrest and indictment of a Queens (N.Y.) man for stealing the home of an elderly woman living in East Flatbush, Brooklyn, while she was receiving dementia care in her home.

How title agencies can build resilience and balance compliance with competitiveness

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 18:13:03 GMT

How title agencies can build resilience and balance compliance with competitiveness - During the 2026 National Settlement Services Summit (NS3) in Kansas City, panelists capped off a series of sessions on resilience and compliance with actionable takeaways that can help companies avoid audits while staying competitive.

Report identifies patterns in identity theft

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 18:10:48 GMT

Report identifies patterns in identity theft - Identity theft is becoming more complex, moving away from just a single event like a stolen credit card, according to the 2026 Trends in Identity Report released by the Alliance for Identity Resilience’s Identity Theft Resource Center. Chief Operating and Programs Officer Mona Terry shared some takeaways with The Legal Description.

New York governor to dedicate $40 million toward homeowner protections in FY2027

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 18:06:34 GMT

New York governor to dedicate $40 million toward homeowner protections in FY2027 - During a meeting with Brooklyn homeowners, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul outlined the state’s ongoing efforts to combat deed theft, including an announcement that her office had secured $4.5 million for enforcement and education to prevent deed theft.

Vermont Data Privacy and Online Surveillance Act signed into law

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 18:04:25 GMT

Vermont Data Privacy and Online Surveillance Act signed into law - Vermont became the fourth state to pass a comprehensive data privacy law this year when Gov. Phil Scott signed the Vermont Data Privacy and Online Surveillance Act, which goes into effect in 2028.

Congress passes small business cybersecurity bill

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 18:01:26 GMT

Congress passes small business cybersecurity bill - A bipartisan bill was passed by Congress on June 23 which would direct the U.S. General Accountability Office to evaluate federal cybersecurity assistance to small businesses and mandate a study to find shortcomings in current preventative and mitigating measures.

Montana’s Securities Fraud Restitution Assistance Fund receives $60,000 windfall

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 17:54:40 GMT

Montana’s Securities Fraud Restitution Assistance Fund receives $60,000 windfall - Commissioner James Brown announced on June 24 that, due to settlements reached with entities that failed to properly file required notices, approximately $60,000 has been added to Montana’s Securities Fraud Restitution Assistance Fund for 2026.

Michigan family handed defeat in Supreme Court opinion – but not a total one

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 17:28:10 GMT

Michigan family handed defeat in Supreme Court opinion – but not a total one - The Pung family of Michigan sought to prove that fair market value of a property is the true measure of just compensation in a tax foreclosure sale in their case against Isabella County. The Supreme Court disagreed on multiple points, but the procedural battle isn’t over yet. The Legal Description talked to a senior attorney with the Pacific Legal Foundation and the executive director of the National Tax Lien Association about what happens next.

Supreme Court rules excess equity just compensation based on auction price, not fair market value

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 15:01:16 GMT

Supreme Court rules excess equity just compensation based on auction price, not fair market value - In a landmark excess equity case concerning tax foreclosure sales, the Supreme Court determined that former owners of seized properties are owed foreclosure sale proceeds minus tax debts based on the home’s auction price, not fair market value.

Panel discusses ongoing regulatory struggles from FinCEN to foreclosure

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 18:05:13 GMT

Panel discusses ongoing regulatory struggles from FinCEN to foreclosure - During the 2026 National Settlement Services Summit (NS3) in Kansas City, Mo., panelists discussed recent legal struggles centering on property rights, excess equity theft and burdensome federal regulation.

New York Supreme Court addresses long-term breach of contract dispute

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 18:00:34 GMT

New York Supreme Court addresses long-term breach of contract dispute - One portion of a long-standing lawsuit over fraud and negligence in a real estate closing, which began in 2004, has been settled by the Supreme Court, Appellate Division, Second Department, of New York.

NAIC confirms targeted ransomware breach

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 17:58:37 GMT

NAIC confirms targeted ransomware breach - A group of cyberattackers has claimed responsibility for a targeted breach of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, which has reportedly compromised more than 105,000 sensitive files.

Michigan considers bill to update state insurance codes

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 17:57:02 GMT

Michigan considers bill to update state insurance codes - Lawmakers in Michigan have introduced a bill that would, if enacted, amend the state’s Insurance Code of 1956 to exclude title insurance transactions and the entities facilitating those transactions from a section of code involving risk.

Iowa law enables insurance companies to halt suspicious transactions

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 17:55:38 GMT

Iowa law enables insurance companies to halt suspicious transactions - The Iowa Insurance Division has announced that a new law scheduled to take effect on July 1 would empower insurance companies in operating in the state to halt suspicious transactions if they have evidence that elder financial abuse is taking place.

FBI issues warning of identity theft scheme targeting vacant properties

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 17:53:59 GMT

FBI issues warning of identity theft scheme targeting vacant properties - A public statement from the FBI warns against a prevalent identity theft scheme involving criminals pretending to be the owners of vacant properties to sell them without the real owner's knowledge or consent.

State regulators discuss latest legislative efforts, ongoing pain points in real estate transactions

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 17:59:44 GMT

State regulators discuss latest legislative efforts, ongoing pain points in real estate transactions - During the State Regulator Panel at the 2026 National Settlement Services Summit (NS3) in Kansas City, Mo., panelists discussed legislative developments in their own jurisdictions and beyond that have impacted and continue to impact government oversight of real estate transactions.

Virginia to launch mixed-income housing loan pilot program

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 17:57:35 GMT

Virginia to launch mixed-income housing loan pilot program - A recently-enacted legislative proposal directs the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development to create a two-year pilot program that would provide loan origination and servicing activities for mixed-income housing.

New Jersey takes hard stance against junk fees with new executive order

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 17:55:50 GMT

New Jersey takes hard stance against junk fees with new executive order - In a new executive order, New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill instructed state agencies to review how junk fees affect consumers and suggest measures to reduce or eliminate them by Sept. 14. The office of the attorney general and the Division of Consumer Affairs also released an enforcement statement on junk fees, detailing how certain practices may violate New Jersey law.

New Ohio attorney general sworn in

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 17:54:11 GMT

New Ohio attorney general sworn in - On June 8, Andy Wilson officially took office as Ohio’s 52nd attorney general after being sworn in at the Clark County Common Pleas Court, where he previously served as the county prosecutor.

FTC: Imposter scams cost victims $3.5 billion last year

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 17:52:16 GMT

FTC: Imposter scams cost victims $3.5 billion last year - Imposter scams cost an estimated $3.5 billion in 2025, according to findings released by the Federal Trade Commission. This figure is nearly triple the rate of losses seen in 2020.

Erin Hunter appointed West Virginia Insurance Commissioner

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 17:50:34 GMT

Erin Hunter appointed West Virginia Insurance Commissioner - West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced on June 12 that he had formally appointed Erin Hunter to the office of insurance commissioner, effective July 1.

Maryland AG charges MV Realty with illegal consumer lending practices

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 18:01:38 GMT

Maryland AG charges MV Realty with illegal consumer lending practices - Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown announced the state Consumer Protection Division filed charges against multiple entities including MV Realty PBC, LLC; MV Realty of Maryland LLC; and MV Brokerage of Maryland LLC, alleging illegal consumer lending activities.

Two Democrats to face off for California Insurance Commissioner

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 17:59:06 GMT

Two Democrats to face off for California Insurance Commissioner - A June primary has placed two final candidates on the ballot for the position of California’s insurance commissioner, marking the first time two Democrats have competed for the insurance commissioner seat since it became an elected position in 1988.

Mortgage lender reports data breach impacting 137,000+ people

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 17:57:14 GMT

Mortgage lender reports data breach impacting 137,000+ people - In a notice sent to affected consumers on May 29, San Diego-based mortgage lender Plaza Home Mortgage confirmed that it had been subject to a data breach in February, which 137,976 individuals were impacted by.

Virginia to mandate equal zoning standards for manufactured housing

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 17:55:47 GMT

Virginia to mandate equal zoning standards for manufactured housing - Gov. Abigail Spanberger has signed a legislative package aimed at bringing down housing costs in Virginia, including one bill that legalizes manufactured housing by-right statewide to all areas where site-built housing is allowed.

Louisiana Department of Insurance fills four key staff placements

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 17:54:10 GMT

Louisiana Department of Insurance fills four key staff placements - The Louisiana State Senate confirmed four of Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple’s key senior staff appointments to their positions during the 2026 Legislative Session.

Arrest made in federal criminal complaint alleging bank fraud

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 17:52:42 GMT

Arrest made in federal criminal complaint alleging bank fraud - An Orange County, Calif., man was arrested in connection to a federal criminal complaint charging him with defrauding a bank out of nearly $100 million by manipulating title policies to misrepresent collateral that had been pledged to the bank.

Impending tax sale highlights friction in Iowa foreclosure processes

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 17:39:14 GMT

Impending tax sale highlights friction in Iowa foreclosure processes - One Iowa homeowner’s fight before the state’s Supreme Court to keep his home despite a $2,000+ tax debt marks another in a long series of cases predicated on the outcome of Tyler v. Hennepin County.

Mortgage servicer penalized by California AG for violating state’s Housing Bill of Rights

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 17:37:23 GMT

Mortgage servicer penalized by California AG for violating state’s Housing Bill of Rights - California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced that his office reached a $4.6 million settlement with Select Portfolio Servicing over claims that the company broke state and federal mortgage servicing laws during the COVID-19 pandemic.

‘Community Flood Resilience Act’ introduced in Congress

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 17:34:43 GMT

‘Community Flood Resilience Act’ introduced in Congress - An act introduced to Congress would, if enacted, allow for certain FEMA mitigation grant funds to be used for community-based flood insurance coverage. Proponents say the bill would help communities better prepare for and recover from severe flooding.

Panelist speaks to housing market expectations for rest of the year

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 17:32:55 GMT

Panelist speaks to housing market expectations for rest of the year - October Research, LLC will host a webinar June 17 at 2 p.m. (ET) titled “Q2 Economic Outlook” featuring Moody’s Analytics Economist Shandor Whitcher. We caught up with Whitcher ahead of his presentation to get his thoughts on the housing market.

California regulators hit Florida lender with $4M penalty

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 17:31:04 GMT

California regulators hit Florida lender with $4M penalty - The California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation has ordered Florida-based Navitas Credit Corp. to pay a $4 million penalty for violating California financing laws.

Florida man indicted for mail fraud after misrepresenting income to lender

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 17:29:06 GMT

Florida man indicted for mail fraud after misrepresenting income to lender - Brandon Dutch Mendenhall, 46, from Brandon, Fla., has been indicted for one count of mail fraud connected to a mortgage application. If found guilty, he could face up to 20 years in federal prison.

‘How I Would Hack Your Title Agency’ talk illuminates modern cyber threat landscape

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 18:02:25 GMT

‘How I Would Hack Your Title Agency’ talk illuminates modern cyber threat landscape - During his session at the 2026 National Settlement Services Summit (NS3) in Kansas City, Mo., educator and consultant Matt Lee spared no details as he broke down how he would go about infiltrating a title agency and holding its data for ransom. Along the way, Lee, who serves as security and compliance senior director at Pax8, shared preventative tips and his philosophy on why cyber defenders should also know how to go on offense.

Tennessee legislature amends state’s Home Equity Conversion Mortgage Act

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 17:55:55 GMT

Tennessee legislature amends state’s Home Equity Conversion Mortgage Act - In a bill enacted on May 19, lawmakers in Tennessee implemented amendments to the state’s Home Equity Conversion Mortgage Act, including renaming the law the Tennessee Reverse Mortgage Innovation Act, redefining “reverse mortgage” and more.

Rhode Island considers updates to regulations governing real estate brokers

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 17:53:55 GMT

Rhode Island considers updates to regulations governing real estate brokers - Legislators in Rhode Island are considering a bill that would clarify the roles involved in real estate transactions, including those who list, sell, purchase, exchange, rent, lease or auction real estate for a fee. The bill also sets standards for individuals who advertise these services or help others in real estate transactions for profit.

Partner Engineering debuts 2026 Guide to ALTA/NSPS Land Title Surveys

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 17:51:36 GMT

Partner Engineering debuts 2026 Guide to ALTA/NSPS Land Title Surveys - Environmental and construction consulting firm Partner Engineering and Science, Inc. has released the latest iteration of its land title survey guide, a resource designed to help commercial real estate professionals understand and apply the latest industry standards.

More than 20 individuals, companies indicted in vast Manhattan deed theft conspiracy

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 17:49:45 GMT

More than 20 individuals, companies indicted in vast Manhattan deed theft conspiracy - Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg Jr. announced on May 28 the indictment of 18 individuals and three companies, all accused of conspiring to steal a home deed and fraudulently obtaining a mortgage and construction loan totaling $1,636,000.

Landlocked property leads to lawsuit, appeal between buyer and insurance agents

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 17:57:13 GMT

Landlocked property leads to lawsuit, appeal between buyer and insurance agents - After his suit against an insurance agency and title company was stopped by summary judgement in a trial court, one property buyer appealed while representing himself. The appeals court then had to determine whether the trial court was right to deny the man’s punitive damages claims.

Louisiana lawmakers vote to prohibit ‘foreign adversary’ purchase of military-adjacent land

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 17:54:20 GMT

Louisiana lawmakers vote to prohibit ‘foreign adversary’ purchase of military-adjacent land - A bill to prohibit foreign adversaries from acquiring land interests near military installations was approved by the Louisiana state legislature on June 1 and is pending signature by Gov. Jeff Landry.

Newsom orders California businesses to insulate workers from AI disruption

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 17:52:14 GMT

Newsom orders California businesses to insulate workers from AI disruption - Gov. Gavin Newsom issued an executive order on May 21 directing California businesses and government agencies to prepare workers, small businesses, and communities for the economic disruption that artificial intelligence is expected to bring to the workforce.

Minnesota financial services company to pay restitution after overcharging customers

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 17:50:27 GMT

Minnesota financial services company to pay restitution after overcharging customers - A financial services company that overcharged Minnesotans for equity transactions over a period of five years is being compelled by the Minnesota Department of Commerce to pay restitution of more than $242,000 to thousands of customers.

Manhattan real estate lawyer indicted for stealing $700,000 from clients

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 17:49:05 GMT

Manhattan real estate lawyer indicted for stealing $700,000 from clients - A Manhattan-based real estate attorney was charged on May 28 for stealing approximately $700,000 from three of her clients after being retained as a seller’s attorney in three separate real estate closings last year.

MV Realty reaches $2.5M settlement with California AG

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 18:04:26 GMT

MV Realty reaches $2.5M settlement with California AG - California Attorney General Rob Bonta has reached a settlement with Florida-based real estate company MV Realty, its CEO and its chief operating officer, which terminates the company’s liens, compels it to refund fees and voids existing agreements with homeowners. MV Realty must also pay more than $1.3 million in restitution and nearly $1.2 million in civil penalties.

FEMA Review Council recommends shrinking NFIP scope, funding

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 18:01:21 GMT

FEMA Review Council recommends shrinking NFIP scope, funding - The National Flood Insurance Program may see its scope and role in federal disaster response and prevention efforts reduced under a new set of recommendations from Federal Emergency Management Agency leadership.

Texas primary narrows the field for state AG

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 17:59:03 GMT

Texas primary narrows the field for state AG - After winning their respective primaries for the office of Texas attorney general (AG), Republican Mayes Middleton and Democrat Nathan Johnson are set to face off in the November general election while AG Ken Paxton secured the Republican nomination for the state’s open U.S. Senate seat.

Maryland to officially evaluate blockchain applications for recording land titles

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 17:57:26 GMT

Maryland to officially evaluate blockchain applications for recording land titles - A new bill recently signed into law in Maryland will commence efforts by the state to evaluate the potential applications of blockchain technology in real estate documentation, including land titles and lease agreements.

Tennessee governor signs amended deed conveyance bill

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 17:55:02 GMT

Tennessee governor signs amended deed conveyance bill - A bill introduced in Tennessee previously referred to as the “Tennessee Real Estate Consumer Fraud Protection Act,” which proposed to implement new safeguards on real estate transactions taking place in the state, has been amended and signed into law by Gov. Bill Lee.

Florida banker gets 12 years in prison for bribery, insurance fraud

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 17:53:08 GMT

Florida banker gets 12 years in prison for bribery, insurance fraud - A bank founder from Tampa, Fla., was sentenced to 12 years in prison for his involvement in a bribery and fraud scheme that bankrupted various insurance companies, leaving many policyholders with unpaid claims.

Arizona AG files suit to save homeowner from equity-stripping scheme

Wed, 27 May 2026 18:06:21 GMT

Arizona AG files suit to save homeowner from equity-stripping scheme - Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes filed a lawsuit to stop the wrongful foreclosure of a home involved in an equity stripping scheme. The defendants in the suit are accused of orchestrating a fake foreclosure that would prevent the attorney general from returning a disputed property to its rightful owner.

Financial company sues closing firm for overseeing fraudulent transaction

Wed, 27 May 2026 18:02:14 GMT

Financial company sues closing firm for overseeing fraudulent transaction - After falling victim to a fraud scheme, a financial company sued the closing firm involved in the transaction for failing to act with due caution and causing financial harm. A district court eventually ruled on whether the matter would go to trial.

U.S. House passes bipartisan bill to strengthen small business cybersecurity

Wed, 27 May 2026 18:00:00 GMT

U.S. House passes bipartisan bill to strengthen small business cybersecurity - The Small Business Competitions Assistance Evaluation Act of 2026 received unanimous support in a recent U.S. House vote. If implemented, the bill would direct the General Accountability Office to evaluate federal cybersecurity assistance to small businesses.

FBI warns of phishing-as-a-service tool that can bypass MFA defenses

Wed, 27 May 2026 17:58:19 GMT

FBI warns of phishing-as-a-service tool that can bypass MFA defenses - A recent public service announcement by the FBI detailed the growing prevalence of a phishing toolkit that allows determined attackers to penetrate networks, even those protected by multi-factor authentication systems.

Consumer Fraud Protection Act introduced in Tennessee

Wed, 27 May 2026 17:56:44 GMT

Consumer Fraud Protection Act introduced in Tennessee - Lawmakers in Tennessee have introduced a bill titled the “Tennessee Real Estate Consumer Fraud Protection Act,” which aims to implement new safeguards to ensure real estate transactions taking place in the state are legitimate and verified.

New York DFS releases updated cybersecurity guidance

Wed, 27 May 2026 17:55:13 GMT

New York DFS releases updated cybersecurity guidance - New York State Department of Financial Services Acting Superintendent Kaitlin Asrow issued new guidance identifying cybersecurity measures that department-regulated entities should consider adopting when facing a heightened threat environment.

FinCEN releases new guidance on real estate reporting rule amid court battle

Wed, 20 May 2026 14:37:10 GMT

FinCEN releases new guidance on real estate reporting rule amid court battle - The Treasury Department’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network issued three new FAQs on May 18 to clarify the status of its residential real estate transaction rule after a Texas federal court ruled it invalid and ordered a stay of enforcement.

DC AG penalizes nonprofit development executive for misuse of funds

Wed, 20 May 2026 14:30:39 GMT

DC AG penalizes nonprofit development executive for misuse of funds - District of Columbia Attorney General Brian Schwalb reached a $1.255 million fund misuse judgment against the former executive director of the nonprofit H Street Community Development Corp.

NS3 attendees pitch in to support Kansas City-area foster children

Wed, 20 May 2026 14:25:22 GMT

NS3 attendees pitch in to support Kansas City-area foster children - Attendees at this year’s National Settlement Services Summit had the opportunity to bring comfort to Kansas City area children in the family court system through the annual “Make a Child Smile” community outreach event, sponsored by Qualia.

Tennessee considers updates to public record access regulations

Wed, 20 May 2026 14:22:32 GMT

Tennessee considers updates to public record access regulations - A bill introduced to the Tennessee legislature earlier this year would, if enacted, amend certain sections of state code governing access to and redaction of public records.

NIPR directors announce planned leadership transition of CEO position

Wed, 20 May 2026 14:20:29 GMT

NIPR directors announce planned leadership transition of CEO position - Directors of the National Insurance Producer Registry announced that CEO Karen Stakem Hornig will retire in June 2027, with Chief Product and Technology Officer Eric Saul set to succeed her as CEO.

Connecticut Insurance Department issues insurance fraud warning

Wed, 20 May 2026 14:12:01 GMT

Connecticut Insurance Department issues insurance fraud warning - The Connecticut Insurance Department issued a bulletin on May 15, warning consumers to be aware of the risk of insurance fraud and online scams.

Texas AG warns 130+ cities of penalties if they implement unauthorized property tax hikes

Mon, 18 May 2026 19:31:15 GMT

Texas AG warns 130+ cities of penalties if they implement unauthorized property tax hikes - Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton issued letters to more than 130 cities, prohibiting them from raising ad valorem taxes above the no-new-revenue tax rate implemented by SB 1851.

Industry innovators, leaders to take the stage in Kansas City for NS3

Mon, 18 May 2026 19:26:22 GMT

Industry innovators, leaders to take the stage in Kansas City for NS3 - More than 40 speakers will take the stage over three days this week at the National Settlement Services Summit (NS3) at the Kansas City Marriott Downtown in Kansas City, Mo.

California regulators penalize fintech company for deceptive practices

Mon, 18 May 2026 19:22:52 GMT

California regulators penalize fintech company for deceptive practices - The California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation announced that San Francisco-based fintech Yotta Technologies will be required to pay a $1 million penalty for engaging in deceptive acts or practices.

Rhode Island passes bill establishing title fraud as a criminal offense

Mon, 18 May 2026 19:20:39 GMT

Rhode Island passes bill establishing title fraud as a criminal offense - A bill has been advanced through the Rhode Island legislature that would establish title fraud as a criminal offense in the state, while also setting restrictions on the electronic filing of real estate documents.

Tax lien sale reform legislation sent to Colorado governor

Mon, 18 May 2026 19:18:34 GMT

Tax lien sale reform legislation sent to Colorado governor - A bill proposing comprehensive reform to Colorado’s tax lien sales processes was sent to the desk of Gov. Jared Polis after passing both chambers of the state legislature.

Former New York judge, accomplice face up to 20 years for wire fraud

Mon, 18 May 2026 19:17:17 GMT

Former New York judge, accomplice face up to 20 years for wire fraud - A former Kings County Supreme Court justice and his accomplice were charged with wire fraud conspiracy at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn on May 13. The defendants face up to 20 years in prison if convicted.

Government appeals Texas court decision staying enforcement of FinCEN real estate rule

Wed, 13 May 2026 18:05:43 GMT

Government appeals Texas court decision staying enforcement of FinCEN real estate rule - The U.S. Treasury Department’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) and its co-defendants have appealed the court decision in Flowers Title Companies, LLC v. Scott Bessent, et al. that paused enforcement of its sweeping real estate transaction reporting rule. Luke Wake, an attorney with the Pacific Legal Foundation, which represented Flowers Title owner Celia Flowers in the suit, talked to The Legal Description about what he expects may happen next.

Escrow company found largely liable after homebuyers fall victim to scam

Wed, 13 May 2026 18:03:07 GMT

Escrow company found largely liable after homebuyers fall victim to scam - Two homebuyers who fell victim to a wire fraud scam in 2020 were granted $1.2 million relief on April 7 when the Superior Court of California, County of San Diego filed a ruling declaring the escrow company to be at majority fault for the fraudulent transaction.

FTC issues noncompete warning to mortgage servicer

Wed, 13 May 2026 18:01:57 GMT

FTC issues noncompete warning to mortgage servicer - A Pennsylvania-based national mortgage services provider was sent a formal warning letter by Federal Trade Commission Chairman Andrew Ferguson asking the company to ensure compliance with laws banning noncompete agreements for employees.

New Jersey proposes reform to real estate licensing, CE requirements

Wed, 13 May 2026 18:00:20 GMT

New Jersey proposes reform to real estate licensing, CE requirements - A bill has been proposed in the New Jersey Assembly that would revise continuing education requirements for real estate licensees and continuing education providers.