News Type: Publications

Ling Kong unpacks the promise and pitfalls of SAFEs in his latest piece for Crunchbase News. In “The Startup Aspirin: SAFEs Ease Fundraising Pain, But Read the Fine Print First,” Ling explores how these streamlined agreements have become the go-to vehicle for early-stage capital—favored for their speed and simplicity—yet come with significant trade-offs around dilution, valuation caps, and investor protections. With nearly 90% of Q3 2024 pre-priced rounds raised via SAFEs, Ling’s article is essential reading for founders navigating today’s venture landscape.

Meredith Bobber Strauss has written about how automated systems—designed to optimize efficiency—can unintentionally generate legal exposure. In Risk Management, she details how background data flows, AI-driven pricing, and algorithmic decision-making may trigger enforcement actions, breach contracts, or violate consumer protection laws, even in the absence of intent. Her article, “How Automation and Smart Systems Create Legal Headaches,” underscores why legal supervision must be embedded at every stage of system design and operation.

Mark Robinson breaks down what every insurance producer needs to know when the Department of Insurance comes knocking. In an article for Risk & Insurance, Mark delivers practical, no-nonsense guidance for agents and brokers facing consumer complaint inquiries, spotlighting what regulators are really after and how to respond effectively and professionally. A timely read for those navigating the complex intersection of insurance sales and regulatory compliance.

Lara Shortz lays out a clear-eyed roadmap for LA hoteliers as the city prepares to host the FIFA World Cup, Super Bowl, and Olympic Games over the next few years. In her just-published piece for Hotel Dive, Lara unpacks what’s at stake for hoteliers navigating complex labor, compliance, and operational challenges. Her take? Strategic alignment among employers, unions, regulators, and city leaders is essential to ensure LA delivers a first-rate guest experience without compromising worker protections.

Ling Kong and Lara Shortz are the authors of a new article in Crunchbase News offering startups a legal playbook for navigating some of their most pressing employment and compliance challenges. From equity compensation pitfalls to WARN Act requirements, misclassification risks, and restrictive covenants, Ling and Lara lay out how founders can avoid costly legal missteps while building strong, resilient companies. Required reading for early-stage leaders aiming to scale smartly and stay out of the courtroom.

Elizabeth Tosaris and Aaron Plesset bring their expertise to Insurance Journal with a timely analysis of California’s newly proposed Insurance Consumer Privacy Protection Act (SB 354). Their article unpacks how the bill could introduce a sweeping new regulatory layer to an industry already governed by a complex and robust privacy framework—and poses the critical question: is this meaningful reform or regulatory overreach? A must-read for anyone tracking the future of data privacy in the insurance space.

Devon Mills has written a sharp legal analysis for HR.com on a topic that’s fast becoming a flashpoint in boardrooms and HR departments nationwide. In “DEI Under Scrutiny: How Employers Can Adapt,” Devon unpacks the EEOC’s latest guidance, the legal risks facing DEI programs, and the nuanced interplay between federal oversight and state mandates. It’s essential reading for employers working to navigate this shifting legal and cultural landscape.

In a Law360 article that should resonate far beyond the sports world, Mindy Lewis and Natalie Manoogian break down the seismic impact of the National Women’s Soccer League’s $5M abuse settlement. The piece explores how the league’s agreement with state attorneys general sets a new precedent in workplace accountability—one that underscores a fundamental truth: in today’s environment, safeguarding talent isn’t optional, it’s essential. This is a must-read for employers navigating the intersection of compliance, culture, and reputational risk.

Lara Shortz has written an article just published by Reuters, sharing her perspective on what it takes to successfully lead a midsize law firm in today’s climate. In “Managing The Midsize Law Firm: Meeting Today’s Challenges Head-On,” Lara draws from her experience as M&R’s Office Managing Partner in L.A. to unpack the realities of running a midsize firm in today’s evolving legal landscape. From culture-building and mentorship to tech investment and DEI, she delivers a thoughtful take on leadership, purpose, and strategic growth.

Vince Loh has written about a potential game-changer for insurers—and businesses across sectors—in Insurance Journal. In an article titled, “The Supreme Court’s Upcoming Ruling on Class Certification: A Watershed Moment for Insurance and Business Litigation,” Vince takes a close look at Lab. Corp. of Am. Holdings v. Davis, a case now pending before the high court that could empower defendants to challenge costly suits if even a handful of plaintiffs lack tangible harm. Vince’s analysis is essential reading for insurers and corporate counsel monitoring the evolving class action landscape.