Lohnt sich die Expansion in die USA?

BridgehouseLaw's Reinhard von Hennigs hat sich beim Wirtschaftsgespräch mit Balve Optimum zu Trumps zweiter Amtszeit und deren Auswirkungen auf die amerikanische Wirtschaft geäußert. 

Viele fragen sich: Welchen Einfluss hat die MAGA-Bewegung auf die Wirtschaftspolitik? Von Hennigs hob hervor, dass der amerikanische Markt weiterhin attraktiv für mittelständische Unternehmen ist, insbesondere hinsichtlich steuerlicher und regulatorischer Aspekte. 

Unternehmen, die spezielle Dienstleistungen anbieten oder fortgeschrittene Technologien einsetzen, können hier profitieren. Besonders gefragt sind Gewerbe wie Maschinenbau, Automotive-Zulieferungen, Medizintechnik, Logistik sowie Software.

Bridgehouse Law unterstützt Unternehmer bei ihrer Expansion in die USA, von der Gründung eines Unternehmens bis zu Visafragen. Bridgehouse Law ist international vertreten in Charlotte, Atlanta, Vancouver, Berlin, München und Köln. 

Ihre Organisation spezialisiert sich auf mittelständische Unternehmen, die im US-Markt wachsen möchten. 

Reinhard von Hennigs verdeutlicht, dass Unternehmer mit guter Vorbereitung, kulturellem Wissen und rechtlicher Absicherung Gelegenheiten zum internationalen Wachstum nutzen können. 

Kamila Desormes, Admin Assistant, BridgehouseLaw, Charlotte

What Businesses Can Learn from Taylor Swift’s “Father Figure” Decision

 

One track immediately sparked conversation when Taylor Swift released her new album, The Life of a Showgirl. The song “Father Figure” borrows from George Michael’s 1987 classic with the same name. Swift’s team showcased its knowledge of intellectual property laws through interpolation. Rather than sampling the original recording, Swift’s team chose to interpolate it by re-creating elements of Michael’s melody and lyrics within a new composition. Interpolations only require clearance from the owners of the underlying composition, not those who control the original sound recording. 

Swift received permission from Michael’s estate to interpolate “Father Figure,” and credits the estate as co-writers. By crediting the estate, Swift ensures both legal compliance and artistic respect. This is a textbook example of how strategic rights management protects creators from potential copyright disputes while preserving goodwill among stakeholders. 

The same principles apply beyond the music industry. Whether you’re developing products, designing marketing materials, or producing digital content, understanding how to properly license, credit, and protect creative assets is essential. Missteps in copyright or intellectual property can lead to costly disputes and loss of profits, but proactive planning can turn those risks into opportunities for collaboration and brand integrity.

Our firm assists clients with all intellectual property and copyright law aspects, from licensing and ownership to enforcement and protection strategies. Swift’s approach to “Father Figure” shows that creativity and compliance can go hand in hand, and that the most innovative businesses protect what they create.

Kelsey Greene, Law Clerk

When “Friday” Became a Season: The Legal Shift Behind Black Friday’s Expansion

What was once a single day of post-Thanksgiving doorbuster deals has now morphed into a full-fledged shopping season. Black Friday sales originally occurred the Friday after Thanksgiving but have now evolved into weeks of early promotions, extended weekend discounts, and online sales. This transformation reflects changing consumer habits and a new set of legal and business challenges for retailers. 

As companies compete for attention across longer sales periods, they must navigate complex rules governing advertising, pricing accuracy, and data privacy. Misleading “limited-time " offers or exaggerated discounts can trigger investigations under consumer protection laws and Federal Trade Commission guidelines. The rise of online shopping also heightens concerns around cybersecurity and proper handling of consumer data. 

Behind the scenes, extended Black Friday campaigns affect contracts, staffing, and logistics. Businesses face questions about seasonal employment, overtime pay, and vendor obligations, as what once was a one-day event now stretches across multiple days and weeks. Careful planning and compliance review are essential to keep these campaigns profitable and lawful. As Black Friday continues to grow into its own season, proactive legal guidance can help businesses stay competitive and compliant.  

Kelsey Greene, Law Clerk

image: iStock

Wer hätte das gedacht - little known facts about Germany: Das Reinheitsgebot

🍻 It started in Bavaria in 1516

The law was first decreed by Bavarian Duke Wilhelm IV on April 23, 1516, and is considered one of the world's oldest consumer protection laws. 

🍻 It initially had three primary purposes

The decree aimed to control beer prices, prevent contamination from unhealthy ingredients used by unscrupulous brewers, and ensure a supply of wheat and rye for bakers. 

🍻 The ingredients list expanded over time

The original law allowed only barley, hops, and water, as yeast was not yet recognized as a key ingredient. Yeast and wheat were later added to the law. 

🍻 It became a national law in 1906

The Bavarian beer edict spread to other parts of Germany and became the official law of the German Empire in 1906. 



🍻 It was ruled a restraint on trade in 1987

The European Court of Justice found the Reinheitsgebot protectionist, allowing foreign beers to be sold in Germany even if they didn't conform to the law. Despite this ruling, many German breweries still adhere to the law for cultural and marketing reasons. 

Sources: the Internet

image: Hofbräuhaus Newport

Recent US Immigration Updates – H-1B Visas, USCIS Discretion, and Naturalization

 H-1B Visas:

On September 19, 2025, the Trump Administration imposed a one-time $100,000.00 USD fee on certain new H-1B visa applications which are submitting beginning on September 21, 2025. While this fee update does not affect prior applicants, current H-1B visa holders, or other non-immigrant visa holders or lawful permanent residents, it financially restricts the ability of foreign workers to enter the U.S. on H-1B visa status.

The fee must be paid in connection with any new H-1B visa application where the intended beneficiary is outside the U.S. when filing. Importantly, this fee is not an annual or otherwise recurring event; nor does it affect H-1B extensions. Although guidance is unclear, National Interest Exemptions may still be granted case-by-case.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) also recently proposed significant alterations to the H-1B visa selection process, which, if put into effect, would enact a weighted-selection system favoring higher-wage roles instead of the existing lottery-style process. Employers must disclose information concerning the Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) wage rate for the proposed H-1B role. This proposal still permits H-1B issuance at various wage levels, but higher wage level roles would be entered into the lottery more times than lower wage level roles.

Additionally, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) received a new mechanism of discretionary compliance enforcement over H-1B visa issuances – “Project Firewall” permits the Secretary of Labor to investigate H-1B visa cases where it identifies a reasonable cause. Although more granular guidance is pending, we can expect “reasonable cause” to include suspicion of underpaying wages, misrepresentation of H-1B visa job scope, undue displacement of U.S. workers by incoming H-1B visa employees, and similar. In short, employers can anticipate increased scrutiny and/or investigations for H-1B petitions and associated job and wage classifications.

USCIS Discretion:

Side-stepping from updates specific to the H-1B visa process, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued updates over the past two months confirming it may discretionarily deny U.S. entry to foreign individuals for expressing anti-American and/or antisemitic sentiments on social media. This discretion most likely also applies to any such sentiments expressed offline that are brought to USCIS’s attention.

Naturalization and Moral Character:

USCIS is also updating standards for naturalization applications. Good moral character was previously considered only in cases involving disqualifying evidence of poor moral character, such as criminal, drug, or other offenses. Now, USCIS will discretionarily consider whether a naturalization applicant possesses good moral character based on the body of evidence submitted with a given application. Items of consideration may include educational and professional achievements, tax compliance, and community involvement.

Brief Recommendations:

    Employers should be intentional when considering H-1B visa hires and when deciding to go through any new H-1B process. We recommend maintaining proper records for all new H-1B visa processes to preemptively prepare to support compliance with the updated application procedures.

In light of updated USCIS discretion, we recommend that employers instruct foreign workers considering travel to the U.S. to ensure their social media use does not express anti-American or antisemitic sentiment.

Naturalization applicants may consider procuring at least one signed affidavit from a U.S. citizen attesting to their good moral character to support their application positively.

Please do not hesitate to contact Bridgehouse Law for bespoke guidance on these topics.

Cole Haaf, Attorney (NC, MA), BridgehouseLaw LLP

image: iStock

Finding Calm in the Chaos: How ASMR Can Support Wellness in Any Profession

In today’s fast-paced world, many professionals balance heavy workloads, tight deadlines, and nonstop communication. With so much mental noise, it's no surprise that people are turning to unconventional tools for stress relief. One such tool that’s gained popularity across industries is Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR).

ASMR is a calming, tingling sensation triggered by soft sounds like whispering, tapping, or paper rustling. While it might sound unusual initially, many people find ASMR helpful for relaxing their minds, especially during a midday break or before bed. For professionals constantly “on,” this gentle sensory experience can serve as a simple, low-effort way to reset.

Millions now turn to ASMR videos, playlists, and podcasts to unwind, manage anxiety, or improve focus. Whether working from a corner office or your kitchen table, finding moments of calm can boost clarity, reduce stress, and improve overall productivity.

So next time your day feels overwhelming, try exploring an ASMR video or audio track. You might be surprised by how much your brain appreciates the break.

Kelsey Greene, Law Clerk, BridgehouseLaw Charlotte

image: iStock

Taylor Swift and the Power of Owning Your Work: A Legal Perspective

When Taylor Swift made headlines for re-recording her early albums, she sparked more than a pop culture moment; she highlighted a crucial legal issue in the music industry: intellectual property ownership.

Originally, Swift’s masters (the original recordings of her songs) were owned by her former record label, which later sold them without her input. In response, Swift exercised her legal right to re-record her music, creating new masters she controls. Thanks to a combination of U.S. copyright law and careful planning, these re-recordings are legally distinct works, which means she can promote, license, and profit from them instead of the originals. This move empowers her financially and creatively and sets a precedent in contract negotiations.

From a legal standpoint, Swift’s strategy underscores the importance of reviewing contract terms, especially those related to licensing, ownership, and reversion rights. It reminds creatives and business owners alike that who owns their work matters.

Her bold legal move turned a private contract dispute into a global lesson in intellectual property rights, strategic leverage, and the value of knowing your legal options. At the intersection of pop culture and legal power, Taylor Swift reminded the world that ownership isn’t just a business move; it’s a statement. 

If you're curious about protecting your intellectual property or navigating contracts carefully, our team is here to help.

Kelsey Greene, Law Clerk, BridgehouseLaw LLP, Charlotte, NC

image: iStock

Beyond the Headlines: Understanding Executive Orders and Their Limits

Every election cycle, executive orders dominate the news, welcomed by some as bold leadership and criticized by others as overreach. But what exactly is an executive order, and how much power does it really carry? Understanding how they work helps cut through the noise and see the legal reality behind the politics.

An executive order is a legally binding directive issued by the President (or a state governor) to manage the operations of government agencies. These orders can shape how existing laws are enforced, direct funding priorities, or establish task forces. They’re a powerful tool, but they are not laws themselves, and they can’t override legislation passed by Congress.

For example, a president might issue an executive order to direct federal agencies to enforce environmental standards more strictly, but they can’t unilaterally ban fossil fuels without congressional approval.

Importantly, executive orders are subject to judicial review. Courts can, and do, strike them down if they exceed legal authority or violate constitutional rights. Many high-profile orders in recent years have been blocked, delayed, or limited by the courts, illustrating the checks and balances built into our system. So, while executive orders can grab headlines and shift short-term policy, they often face legal, political, and practical constraints.

Kelsey Greene, Law Clerk, BridgehouseLaw LLP, Charlotte, NC

image:iStock 

From Residency intern to Summer Intern: My experience at BridgehouseLaw LLP

As my summer internship at BridgehouseLaw LLP comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on a journey that began well before the start of the season. My first introduction to the firm came through the residency program, where I was welcomed into a community that values mentorship, collaboration, and a deep commitment to the law. Being invited back as a summer intern felt like a full circle moment. It was a moment that has only deepened my appreciation for the people and the work that make this firm unique.

Over the past few months, I’ve had the opportunity to work on a variety of meaningful assignments that helped me grow both professionally and personally. I drafted an addendum to waive a due diligence period and inspection rights, gaining firsthand insight into the transactional side of real estate. I also prepared a residential lease for a condominium, where I had to balance clarity, legal precision, and the practical needs of both the landlords and tenants. Additionally, one of the most eye-opening experiences was attending a landlord-tenant court hearing. Seeing the courtroom dynamics play out in real time helped me better understand the importance of preparation, empathy, and adaptability in practice.

But the project that I’m most proud of was drafting a memorandum in support of a motion to dismiss for a case pending in Federal Bankruptcy Court. I was entrusted with completing the memorandum from start to finish, and the process challenged me to dig deep into the law, think strategically, and write clearly and persuasively. Receiving high praise from my supervising attorney was incredibly rewarding and, more than that, it gave me a renewed sense of confidence as I head into my 3L year and begin preparing for the bar exam.

This summer reminded me why I chose to pursue a legal career. I’m grateful for the mentorship I’ve received, the trust I was given, and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the work of the firm. My time at BridgehouseLaw was nothing short of phenomenal. I leave the firm inspired, motivated, and excited for what lies ahead. 

Zinyah Robinson, Law Clerk, BridgehouseLaw, Charlotte, NC 

Wer hätte das gedacht - little known facts about Germany - even more Random

 

 🏰 Germany is home to over 25,000 castles and castle ruins, which showcase centuries of architectural history and serve as picturesque landmarks throughout the country. 🛣️ The Autobahn, Germany’s famous highway system, stretches over 12,000 kilometers (7,500 miles) and is known for its sections with no speed limits, making it a thrilling experience for travelers who enjoy driving. 🍺 Oktoberfest, held annually in Munich, Bavaria, is the world’s largest Volksfest (beer festival) and attracts millions of visitors from around the globe who come to enjoy traditional German beer, food, and culture. 🌳 The Black Forest (Schwarzwald) is a scenic region in southwestern Germany known for its dense forests, charming villages, and outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking, biking, and skiing in the winter months. 🪩 Berlin, the capital city of Germany, boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with countless bars, clubs, and music venues catering to a diverse range of tastes, making it a must-visit destination for partygoers. 🫟 The Berlin Wall, which once divided the city during the Cold War, is now a historical monument and open-air gallery known as the East Side Gallery. It features colorful murals painted by artists from around the world. 🏰 Neuschwanstein Castle, located in Bavaria, is a fairy-tale-like palace that inspired the design of Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. It attracts visitors with its stunning architecture and scenic surroundings. 🏞️ The Rhine River, one of Europe’s longest and most important waterways, offers scenic river cruises through picturesque landscapes dotted with medieval castles, vineyards, and charming towns. 🌭 German sausages, such as bratwurst, currywurst, and weißwurst, are an integral part of the country’s culinary heritage, and sampling regional specialties is a delicious way for travelers to experience local cuisine. 🎄 Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmärkte) are a beloved tradition in Germany. Festive stalls offer handmade crafts, decorations, and seasonal treats like mulled wine (Glühwein) and gingerbread (Lebkuchen). ⛪️ The Berliner Dom (Berlin Cathedral) is a stunning example of neo-Renaissance architecture. Visitors can explore its elaborate interior, climb to the dome for panoramic city views, and attend classical concerts. Sources: the Internet image: iStock

Summer Law Clerk at Bridgehouse

I stepped into my Summer Law Clerk role at Bridgehouse Law, LLP with one year of law school behind me and experience in civil litigation as a Florida Registered Paralegal. While the transferable skills were helpful, I had to adjust to my new role as a future attorney. The attorneys encouraged the interns to think about the implications of our work on future steps in the case, rather than having our focus solely on completing the task at hand. Under the attorneys' guidance, I could make confident, creative choices and influence strategic decisions. I had the privilege of speaking with prospective clients—some of whom became clients. 

As I had anticipated, my favorite experiences were those involving employment law. This summer I was able to return emails and calls with concrete plans on behalf of our attorneys. I contributed to chipping away at the obstacles that stand before clients, which is precisely why I decided to go to law school in the first place. I was responsible for intake calls, research, contacting regulatory agencies, and even the initial drafting of Complaints.

Additionally, I gained knowledge on immigration, corporate formation, and some domestic landlord-tenant matters. Information from each of these fields contributed to my understanding of the others. I spent a good portion of my time working on employment-based visas, including a national interest waiver, and assisting with troubleshooting unique issues that popped up along the way. I am grateful for the calls I was able to sit in on, court events I observed, and “field trips” to the Sheriff’s Office and Register of Deeds.

Last but not least, I had an incredible time working alongside my fellow Summer Law Clerks. I benefited from knowledge of classes I had not yet taken, received assistance whenever I hit a wall in my research, and was able to offer my own insight when needed. Both the attorneys and my fellow law students were kind and supportive. I can only hope to have such clever and collaborative coworkers when I step into the workforce after graduation. 

As my summer comes to a close, I would like to extend my gratitude for this incredible opportunity and all that the entire office contributed to my growth as a professional and as an individual. They each took the time to explain their work to me carefully, answer my many questions, and offer advice. While I have valuable experiences to add to my resume, the true accomplishments from this summer cannot be contained to a bullet-point list. There are principles and customs that are not written in any book and are far more valuable than one particular technical skill. The practice of law is not just the papers passed between counsel or the files submitted to the court, but the care of those holding the pen and the trust of the clients we serve.

Kaley Joe Vandergriff, Law Clerk, BridgehouseLaw Charlotte

Hot Temps and Hot Lawsuits: What Employers Should Know about Workplace Safety

Summers in North Carolina are very hot, and 2025 is no exception. With record-breaking heat waves sweeping across the country, workplace safety isn’t just a health concern; it’s a legal one. Employers, especially those in construction, agriculture, landscaping, delivery services, and warehouses, are legally obligated to protect workers from heat-related illnesses.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that employers provide a workplace “free from recognized hazards.” In the case of extreme heat, this means:

- Providing adequate water, rest, and shade

- Monitoring workers for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke

- Allowing time for acclimatization- especially for new workers

- Training supervisors and employees on recognizing heat illness symptoms

Employers should take proactive measures to protect their workforce and reduce the risk of liability related to heat illness. This includes implementing a written Heat Illness Prevention Plan and actively monitoring and logging workplace temperatures. It's also essential to schedule physically demanding tasks during the cooler parts of the day to minimize heat exposure. Providing personal protective equipment (PPE) alternatives that reduce heat stress can further safeguard employees. Finally, fostering a “speak-up” culture where workers feel encouraged to report symptoms early can be crucial in preventing serious heat-related incidents.

In addition to federal OSHA guidelines, several states have implemented their heat illness prevention rules. For example, California, Oregon, and Washington have adopted state-specific regulations requiring even stricter water access standards, rest breaks, shade, and training. Employers operating in these states must comply with both federal and state laws, which may include industry-specific mandates and seasonal requirements. I think understanding your local obligations is critical to avoiding penalties and ensuring full compliance.

Ignoring heat-related hazards is no longer an option for safety or compliance. With rising scrutiny from OSHA and growing public awareness, businesses that take proactive steps now will not only protect their teams but also avoid costly fines and litigation later. 

Zinyah Robinson, Law Clerk, BridgehouseLaw LLP, Charlotte, NC 

image: iStock

From Exchange to Experience: My First Legal Steps

In the 2024–2025 school year, I went abroad to Germany through CBYX, the Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange. This program is a fully funded exchange year sponsored by the U.S. Congress and the German Bundestag.

After spending 11 months away from home, I came back fluent in a new language and deeply immersed in a different culture. I’m working at BridgehouseLaw for the summer as a high school intern.

People often ask me, “Why go on an exchange?” I first traveled alone to Argentina for a two-week State Department program called Youth Ambassadors. Even though it was short, it felt like my life changed after seeing another part of the world. It was also my first time speaking Spanish outside of school. I had studied Spanish for three years, but never spoke with native speakers. When I arrived at my host family’s San Juan, Argentina home, no one spoke English. I had no choice but to speak Spanish to communicate and get through everyday life.

Those two weeks taught me that there are many more complicated things than getting a bad grade or studying for a test. Being dropped into a new culture and language and told to “survive” is one of my most challenging and eye-opening experiences. It gave me a new appreciation for what my dad went through when he immigrated to the U.S. But even through the challenges, it was thrilling. For the first time, I felt free. No one was there to make choices for me or influence my thoughts. After that trip, I knew I wanted to go abroad again.

So that summer, when I heard about CBYX from a friend already doing the program, I applied. I didn’t think I’d get in. My friend already spoke German and knew so much about the culture, and I didn’t. But by January 23rd, I found myself sitting in the semifinalist interview.

I’m really glad I applied, and even more pleased I went. At the time, I didn’t know who I was or what I wanted to be. I didn’t have a dream or a direction. Sophomore year had left me feeling burned out, and I didn’t know what I was working toward. But when I moved to Unkel, a small town near Bonn, I slowly started discovering myself again. I found joy in baking, learning about a new culture, and learning the language. By December, I spoke German with my host family, especially my two-year-old host sister. By fall break, I had made friends and hosted my Thanksgiving dinner with them and my host family.

But not every part was easy. Christmas was the hardest. It wasn’t the traditions or decorations I missed, since my Korean-American family doesn’t celebrate Christmas in the traditional American way—and German Christmas is fantastic. What I missed was simply being with my family. Seeing all the photos online of friends with their families and ice skating together really hit me. Until then, I hadn’t felt homesick. But on Heiligabend (Christmas Eve), it finally hit. In Germany, Christmas is a three-day celebration—Heiligabend, Erster Weihnachtsfeiertag (first day), and Zweiter Weihnachtsfeiertag (second day). There’s a lot of eating, card games, and walking. It all sounds cozy, and it is, but when you’re doing it with strangers in a different language, it can feel isolating. That was probably one of my lowest points during the year.

When the end of the year came, leaving felt incredibly difficult. I had worked so hard to make Germany feel like home; suddenly, it was time to pack up and go. Saying goodbye was harder than I expected. I realized that even if I return to Germany, it may never feel the same as during my exchange year. But I know I want to study abroad again—maybe back in Germany, maybe somewhere new. I want to keep learning and growing.

Now, back in the U.S., I am interning at BridgehouseLaw, where I can use the German I learned and work with German-American clients. I’m learning so much about international law and the connection between our two countries. Even though my exchange year is over, my journey isn’t. It feels like it’s just getting started.

Hanna Lee, Intern, BridgehouseLaw, Charlotte, NC 

Top 3 Contracts Every Small Business Should Have

Whether launching a new startup or growing an established business, having the proper legal documents in place is essential. Contracts don’t just protect you in case something goes wrong; they help set clear expectations and build trust from the start. Here are three essential contracts every small business should consider:

1. Bylaws, Operating Agreement, or Partnership Agreement

If your business has more than one owner, this contract is crucial. It outlines decisions, how profits and losses are shared, and what happens if an owner wants to leave the business. A formal agreement protects everyone’s interests and helps prevent misunderstandings, even if you're working with friends or family.

2. Employment or Independent Contractor Agreement

Hiring help? It’s essential to clarify the scope of work, payment terms, intellectual property rights, confidentiality, and termination terms. These contracts help your business comply with labor laws and protect against misclassification risks.

3. Client or Service Agreement

This is the foundation of any business relationship. A well-drafted service agreement outlines what you’re providing, when it’s being delivered, how payments are handled, and what happens if either party wants to cancel. It also helps avoid disputes by making expectations clear from the beginning.

Every business is unique, and contract needs may vary depending on the industry and goals. Having a trusted legal partner to help draft or review your documents can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.

If you have questions about contracts or need help protecting your business, our firm is here to help.

Kelsey Greene, Law Clerk, BridgehouseLaw LLP, Charlotte, NC

image:iStock

Wer hätte das gedacht - little known facts about Germany - Totally Random

🇩🇪 While standard German is the official language, the country boasts 35 different dialects.  🇩🇪 The tradition of having a Christmas tree was started in Germany 🇩🇪 Our ex-Chancellor, Angela Merkel, has a Barbie doll created after her. 🇩🇪 Donaudampfschifffahrtselektrizitätenhauptbetriebswerkbauunterbeamtengesellschaft is the longest German word published - it’s 79 letters long! 🇩🇪 You’ll find the world’s narrowest street in the German city of Reutlingen, at its narrowest point it’s only 31 cm (one foot) wide 🇩🇪 Currywurst, a popular German street food, has its own museum in Berlin.  🇩🇪 Escaping prison in Germany isn’t illegal because it’s a basic human instinct to want to be free 🇩🇪 Some laws determine what you can name your baby in Germany - the law bans names that don’t denote a gender or use a family name as the first name 🇩🇪 When children start school in Germany, they receive a Schultüte, which is a cone of presents that helps to ease the stress of entering a new, serious life 🇩🇪 Even though it’s called Oktoberfest, the festival actually starts in September!  🇩🇪 It's considered bad luck to wish someone a happy birthday before the actual day in Germany.  🇩🇪 Reutlingen is home to Spreuerhofstrasse, the world's narrowest street, measuring just 31cm wide at its narrowest point.  Sources: the Internet image: iStock

 

Generative AI is getting heated!

AI is artificial, meaning it does not have a human body.

However, it has data centers, which house many servers needed to support the questions, which exceed 1 billion daily.

This amount of inquiries requires high-performance electrical equipment, which produces heat that can damage the devices and result in malfunctions. To counteract this, various types of coolant methods are needed.

What does that have to do with us? Your search consumes, on average, less than a teaspoon of water. Not so bad, right? According to some sources, with the amount of searches each user enters, which on average is more than just one, and with the number of users each day across the globe, popular generative AI sites need approximately 10,000,000 liters of freshwater per day, which is 2,641,720 gallons.

Before we even get to the point of typing in your homework question, training an AI model can generate a carbon footprint equivalent to the lifetime emissions of five cars.

Most data centers use evaporative cooling systems, so some of the water is lost as vapor and cannot be recovered, but not all. Still, this causes a net water loss to the local environment.

Let’s say you refuse to use generative AI. Do you still use Google? In 2023, Google calculated that its data centers used as much water as 40 golf courses.

Either way you choose to get your information, take a moment to gather your thoughts so that instead of asking more questions, we ask better questions.

Kaley Jo Vandergriff, Law Clerk, BridgehouseLaw LLP, Charlotte, NC 

image: Adobe Stock

Alligator Alcatraz Explained

“Alligator Alcatraz”, a temporary migrant detention facility in the Florida Everglades, making headlines across America, officially opened on July 3, 2025.

Due to its location, the facility is intended to deter potential escapees with the danger of the native Alligators. The facility’s colloquial name compares the threat of animal attacks to the danger of the vast waters surrounding the now-defunct Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary in San Francisco, CA.

The original Alcatraz operated for 29 years from 1934 to 1963 with no known completed escapes. Numerous movies have been made about the location, including Escape from Alcatraz featuring Clint Eastwood, Point Blank, and Birdman of Alcatraz.

In reality, some of America’s most infamous criminals from Prohibition-era gangsters like Al Capone and Machine Gun Kelly, or McCarthy-era suspected communists like Julius and Ethel Rosenberg, spent time here.

Three inmates successfully broke out of the prison, but whether they survived the strong, cold currents of the water is unknown. However, the mother of two of the potential escapees supposedly received flowers anonymously every Mother’s Day until her death. 

Kaley Joe Vandergriff, Law Clerk, BridgehouseLaw Charlotte

Who is the infamous 'Florida Man'?

Those unfamiliar with America’s southern state of Florida might wonder who “Florida Man” is if they have seen this term in headlines or on social media.

Is he a superhero like Batman?

Is he a wives’ tale we tell our children to encourage them to behave?

“Florida Man” is not one individual. This term has been used to refer to individuals from Florida who partake in outrageous crimes or get themselves stuck in humorous situations. The newspaper articles often sound like, “Barefoot Florida man wrestles giant alligator” or “Florida woman arrested for aggravated battery with a Pringles can”. These are real titles from this year.

Florida extends between the Gulf of America and the Atlantic Ocean and is home to widely varying cultures across the state. Florida’s adventurous wildlife and volatile weather patterns sometimes contribute to chaos. Florida sees an average of 1.2 million lightning strikes annually and is crowned with the nickname “lightning capital of the United States”. More storms, including hurricanes or tropical storms, hit Florida than any other state, so the residents have become accustomed to emergencies. Everglades National Park is the only place in the world where Alligators coexist with their reptile cousin, the Crocodile. Additionally, Florida has many invasive species due to numerous ports of entry and an abundant live animal trade. 

However, 142.9 million visitors still decided to travel to Florida on vacation in 2024. Highly rated stops include Orlando, Key West, and Destin, all known for their pristine white sand beaches. Bring your sunscreen and keep your camera ready!

Kaley Jo Vandergriff, Law Clerk, BridgehouseLaw LLP, Charlotte, NC

The Importance of Estate Planning at Any Age

When most people hear "estate planning," they imagine something reserved for the elderly. In reality, estate planning is a crucial step for anyone, regardless of age, income, or family size.

At its core, estate planning ensures your wishes are fulfilled if something happens to you. It includes key documents like a will, a power of attorney, and a healthcare directive. These tools can help avoid legal confusion, reduce stress on loved ones, and ensure your voice is heard, even if you’re unable to speak for yourself. 

Having a plan in place can be especially important in a medical emergency. An advance directive combines a living will (documents how you want your medical care handled) and a healthcare power of attorney (allows a trusted person to make medical decisions on your behalf). An advance directive ensures your healthcare is according to your wishes and protects your family from making difficult decisions regarding your medical care.

A will allows you to designate how your assets are distributed to your loved ones. Without a will, the distribution of your assets is according to the state statute, which may neglect a loved one, such as a close friend. For adults with children, a will can also designate guardianship and protect their future. A will offers peace of mind that assets will be distributed according to their wishes, minimizing disputes and reducing the burden on their family.

Whether you're 25 or 75, creating or updating an estate plan is one of the most thoughtful gifts you can give your loved ones. It’s not about having a lot, it’s about protecting what matters most.

Kelsey Greene, Law Clerk, BridgehouseLaw LLP, Charlotte, NC 

***UPDATE***IMPORTANT*** Workforce Freedom and Protect Act - check your non-competes

‼️ Update regarding NC Bill 269, Workforce Freedom and Protection Act (N.C.G.S. 95-275) ‼️

Per a conversation with the North Carolina Legislative Help Desk, this Bill is still being reviewed by legislative committees and is not currently law.

The proposed Bill's effective date of July 1, 2025, had caused some news outlets to report the Bill as current law.

Attorney Crystal Bagnardi McBride apologizes for any inconvenience or confusion the original LinkedIn post may have caused. She will continue to monitor the proposed Bill's progress throughout the legislative process.

North Carolina House Bill 269, Workforce Freedom and Protect Act (N.C.G.S § 95-275) (the “Act”) went into effect July 1, 2025. This Act prohibits North Carolina employers from entering into, requiring as a condition of employment, or enforcing any non-compete agreement with an employee who earns less than $75,000.00 USD per year. The prohibition applies to noncompete restrictions on time, geographic area, and specific work activities. Any existing noncompete agreements pertaining to employees earning less than $75,000.00 USD per year are, in effect, unenforceable under the Act. 

Additionally, the Act prohibits employers from requiring employees who primarily reside or work in North Carolina to agree to a contract provision that would: (1) require the employee to adjudicate outside of this state a claim arising in the state; or (2) deprive the employee from the protection of North Carolina law for a claim arising in this state.  The Act renders such contractual clauses void and unenforceable.

The NC Attorney General has the authority to investigate and bring legal action against any employer who violates the Act. Employees who file a civil action against the employer for violations of the Act are eligible to recover damages, reasonable attorney fees, and other relief deemed appropriate by a court of law.

Crystal McBride, Attorney, BridgehouseLaw Charlotte