Procedural rules can make or break an appeal. A recent decision from Florida’s Fifth District Court of Appeal, Platt v. Cape Marine Services, Inc., underscores that reality. Our firm, Widerman Malek, successfully defended a trial court’s attorneys’ fee award that the appellant sought to overturn based on missing factual findings. The Fifth DCA’s opinion confirms […]
When it comes to resolving business disputes, mediation offers a uniquely effective approach that goes beyond the limitations of traditional litigation. While many assume that business conflicts are simply about interpreting shareholder or operating agreements, my experience as a mediator specializing in these matters tells a different story. Business disputes often resemble divorces, with emotions […]
The IRS has announced its annual inflation adjustments for the 2025 tax year, bringing significant changes to tax brackets, deductions, and credits. These updates are designed to help taxpayers manage the impact of inflation and prevent “bracket creep,” where individuals end up in higher tax brackets despite only keeping pace with rising costs. Here’s an […]
Trademark protection is designed to secure a business asset that is unique to your business and your business alone. This prevents consumer confusion by making it easy for a consumer to identify what product is yours versus that of a competitor’s business. Therefore, your trademark is an important business asset. The stronger your logo or […]
Litigation can be a lengthy, costly, and emotionally draining process. As an attorney who practices as transactional, trial, and appellate counsel, I’ve seen firsthand how disputes can escalate into full-blown, multi-year court battles, typically to the detriment of everyone involved. While sometimes litigation is unavoidable, there are several steps you can take to minimize your […]
Imagine this scenario: there is a certain corporation with 400 business units. Each business unit generates $500 per month in income. So, that is a $2.4-million-per-year corporation ($500 x 400 units x 12 months). Now consider that this corporation is run by a board of directors that rotates every year and is elected by the […]
In the complex world of business operations, disputes can arise unexpectedly, presenting challenges that may impact productivity, reputation, and profitability. Understanding how to navigate these disputes effectively within the legal framework of Florida is crucial for businesses to protect their interests and maintain operational continuity. Common Types of Business Disputes in Florida Business disputes in […]
In 2019, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) implemented a significant change affecting trademark applicants and registrants outside the United States. The requirement mandates that all foreign-domiciled trademark applicants and registrants must be represented by a U.S. licensed attorney. This shift in policy has important implications for trademark attorneys practicing internationally, as it […]
In the changing world of innovation and technology, protecting intellectual property is a necessity for maintaining a competitive edge. One of the primary mechanisms for securing such protection is through patents. In the United States, patents are granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). They provide inventors and businesses with exclusive rights […]


