Q: How is a lawsuit formally settled in mediation, and how is that settlement enforced? A: Any settlement agreement reached between the parties at mediation must be properly documented in order to be enforceable. This means that all of the terms of the settlement need to be reduced to writing […]
In a case of first impression, Becker New York, PC recently obtained a summary judgment on behalf of its client—the owner, and commercial landlord, of two landmarked buildings in downtown Manhattan—against a large national bank who, it was determined, violated post-judgment restraining notices served on the Bank to secure payment […]
Washington Works to Avert Shutdown Congress returns to Washington for its last full working week of the month with 15 days left before a potential government shutdown and no funding deal in sight. Lawmakers will break next week in observance of Rosh Hashanah, but in the meantime, the House will […]

Q: Can a condominium association change the budget mid-year without a board vote or notice to owners? (S.S., via e-mail) A: It depends on what you mean by “change the budget,” as that phrase can encompass different things. For example, an association may have budgeted a projected amount for insurance […]
Q: What are the advantages of going to mediation? A: There are various reasons why it is advantageous for parties who are embroiled in a legal dispute or already find themselves in litigation to take advantage of mediation. While, as I’ve pointed out in past articles, a mediator will make […]