On February 2, 2026, the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals, which covers Indiana, ruled that sending a fax to request removal of a beneficiary when the plan documents require contacting the benefits center or updating the intended beneficiary online do not constitute substantial compliance, even when the fax clearly evidences intent to make the change.…
Read MoreThe Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) is a federal statutory scheme that governs many employer-sponsored benefit plans. What Types of Benefit Plans Does ERISA Cover? ERISA generally applies to “employee benefit plans,” a term that includes employee welfare benefit plans (for example, health and certain disability-type benefits) and employee pension benefit plans…
Read MoreSOUTH BEND / MISHAWAKA, IN – May Oberfell Lorber, LLP is happy to announce that Laura D. Faulstich has been promoted to partner and Marissa S. Claxton has been promoted to Senior Associate, effective January 2026. Laura Faulstich earned her J.D. from The John Marshall Law School in 2015, and received her undergraduate degree in…
Read MoreWhen an Indiana business receives an EEOC Charge of Discrimination, the goal is to respond promptly, carefully, and strategically. How the company handles the early stages often determines whether the matter is dismissed, settled, or escalates into litigation. Here is a practical approach to responding to a Charge. Take the Charge Seriously and Act QuicklyEEOC…
Read MoreWhen most people hear estate administration, they think of probate as a single court filing that simply needs to be checked off a list. In reality, estate administration is a process. One that often requires careful legal guidance, strategic decision-making, and a steady hand during an emotionally difficult time. Attorneys practicing in trusts and estates…
Read MoreIn Michigan commercial transactions, legal opinion letters play a critical role in managing risk, facilitating deal execution, and providing assurance to lenders, investors, and other transaction parties. An opinion letter—sometimes called a legal opinion—is a formal written statement by a party’s legal counsel addressing state specific legal matters relevant to a transaction. While often viewed…
Read MoreChanges in modern technology impacting law is not a new concept. Throughout history, technological innovations have disrupted societal norms, necessitating adaptations in legal frameworks. From the industrial revolution to the digital age, courts and legislatures have been forced to grapple with novel questions of ethical and social repercussions of innovative technology integration. Yet, generative artificial…
Read MoreWhen dealing with property rights, it is essential to understand the legal tools available to address access, use, and boundary issues. Two common mechanisms are easements and encroachment agreements. Easements and encroachment agreements are two distinct legal tools that property owners in Indiana often encounter when addressing issues related to land use and boundaries. While…
Read MoreAt some point, many families face “the call.” The call to step in when Mom forgets her medications. The call to manage Dad’s bills when they pile up unopened. The call to make sure a loved one with special needs or memory loss is safe and cared for. These are tough moments, and often, they…
Read MoreWhen you imagine a trademark, you may picture iconic brand names such as Coca-Cola or Nike. These companies have invested millions of dollars into building recognition for their brand names, and trademark law provides them with exclusive rights to use these names in connection with their products. But what happens when a trademark becomes so…
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