New York Paralegal Blog

The recent return of $3 million in Greek antiquities by the Manhattan District Attorney's office isn't just a win for history—it's a perfect example of how global and local laws work together to stop a sophisticated criminal underworld. If you read about "trafficking networks" and "false provenances," you might wonder: How is this a crime, and how can the U.S. government seize something from a famous museum? Here is a simple breakdown of the legal principles at play. 1. The Core Crime: Theft by National Law The first and most crucial legal concept is called cultural patrimony. What it means: Most nations, especially those with rich ancient history like Greece, have laws that essentially say: "Any ancient artifact found in our soil belongs to the state, and removing it without permission is theft." How it applies: The US system, using laws like the National Stolen Property Act (NSPA), recognizes these foreign patrimony laws. If an ar...

Ever wondered about the legal minds behind your favorite movies, songs, or sports events? While attorneys take center stage, there's a vital role played by Entertainment Law Paralegals. These unsung heroes provide crucial support, ensuring the legal gears of the entertainment industry turn smoothly. Let's dive into what an Entertainment Law Paralegal does, what they earn, and the demand for this exciting specialization. What Exactly Does an Entertainment Law Paralegal Do? An Entertainment Law Paralegal is a specialized legal assistant who works alongside attorneys representing a diverse range of clients in the entertainment world – from actors, musicians, and athletes to film studios, sports teams, and digital content creators. Their work is a blend of legal expertise and industry insight. Here are their primary responsibilities: Legal Research: They delve into legal precedents and statutes related to intellectual property (copyrights, trademarks), contract law, lab...

Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus R. Vance, Jr., today announced the sentencing of SHARMON WADE, 37, to nine to 18 years in prison for defrauding investors in a scam that involved fictitious real estate property investments. Judge Michael Obus granted the District Attorney’s request that WADE be considered a predicate felon for previous convictions, and ordered WADE to pay $1,242,623.13 in restitution to these victims. WADE pled guilty on May 17, 2010, to grand larceny, securities fraud, scheme to defraud, and a violation of tax law.

Washington, D.C. - The Department of Commerce’s United States Patent and Trademark Office (USTPO) will begin a two-year pilot Law School Clinical Certification Program this Fall semester allowing law students to practice intellectual property law before the agency under the strict guidance of a law school clinical faculty supervisor. Six law schools have been selected to participate in the pilot, including American University, Washington College of Law; University of Connecticut School of Law; The John Marshall Law School; University of Maine School of Law; Vanderbilt Law School; and William Mitchell College of Law. "Congratulations to each of the selected schools," said Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the USPTO Jon Dudas. "We look forward to providing a real-world experience for the students so they will be well prepared to tackle the complexities of intellectual property law that are so important in today’s economy." See, USPT...

WESTHAVEN,CT - Attorney General Richard Blumenthal today announced a lawsuit against a man who fraudulently posed as pastor of a Hamden church, transferred the church property title to his own church and then took out a $1.15 million mortgage on the property that ultimately defaulted. Blumenthal's lawsuit names Willie E. McKay of West Haven, Love Temple Church of Christ in Prayer, Inc. of West Haven, and Foundation Capital Resources, Inc. of Georgia. While not accused of wrongdoing, Foundation Capital is named because of their legal interest in the property as mortgage holder. "This imposter pastor has literally attempted a church hijacking," Blumenthal said. "With unconscionable and unprecedented gall, Willie McKay posed as pastor of Macedonia church and fraudulently transferred ownership of the church's property to his own church's name, enabling him to borrow more than a million dollars for his own purposes. "My office will fight vigorously in court t...