Kotz Sangster has been recognized in Michigan's regional-specific areas by Best Law Firms®, ranked by Best Lawyers in America®. Additionally, thirteen of the firm's attorneys have been recognized in the 30th Edition of Best Lawyers and another four in the 4th Edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch.
Intellectual property is one of the most often overlooked assets on the balance sheets of businesses today. The intangible nature of these assets leaves them susceptible to being out of sight, out of mind, and, therefore, unprotected. The following 3-step assessment is a great start toward identifying and protecting your intellectual property asset portfolio.
Kotz Sangster attorneys have been named as 2023 Michigan Super Lawyers and Rising Stars.
On June 15, 2023, Governor Whitmer signed into law the “Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair Act” or CROWN Act. The CROWN Act amends and expands the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act’s definition of “race” to prohibit discrimination based on hair texture and protective hairstyles in employment, public accommodations and public services, educational facilities and housing. Specifically, “race” is now defined as “inclusive of traits historically associated with race, including, but not limited to, hair texture and protective hairstyles. For purposes of this definition, ‘protective hairstyles’ includes, but is not limited to, such hairstyles as braids, locks, and twists.” The text of 2023 PA 45 can be found here.
Michigan is the 23rd state to enact a version of the CROWN Act.
The CROWN Act passed with bipartisan support, and takes effect immediately. Employers should update any employment policies, handbooks or other employment documents accordingly, and should inform their managers and supervisors of the change in the law.
Should you have any questions regarding the CROWN Act, contact employment law attorney Bethany Sweeny (bsweeny@kotzsangster.com) or your Kotz Sangster relationship attorney.