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BridgehouseLaw LLP - Your Business Law Firm

Wednesday, July 02, 2025

Workforce Freedom and Protect Act - check you non-competes


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

Monday, May 26, 2025

Erfolgreich in den US-Markt starten – Top Tips bei drohenden USA Strafzöllen - Jetzt für die GABA-Seminare im Juni anmelden!


 🚀 Die USA bleiben eines der attraktivsten Zielländer für deutsche Unternehmen – gerade jetzt, in Zeiten wirtschaftlicher und politischer Veränderungen. Doch der Schritt über den Atlantik erfordert nicht nur Mut, sondern auch eine durchdachte Strategie🇺🇸

Seit 2012 hat die German American Business Association (GABA) über 75 Seminare organisiert und mehr als 500 Unternehmen auf ihrem Weg in die USA begleitet. Im Sommer 2025 geht es weiter, mit unseren bewährten Markteintritts-Seminaren – mit aktuellen Entwicklungen, praxisnahem Expertenwissen und wertvollen Netzwerkmöglichkeiten.


📅 Unsere Seminar-Stationen im Juni:

📍 24.6. Hannover

📍 25.6. Bremen

📍 27.6. Frankfurt


💡 Ihre Themen für einen erfolgreichen US-Markteintritt:


✅ Vertrieb & Markterschließung: Wie erreiche ich 300 Mio. potenzielle Kunden?

✅ Firmengründung in den USA: Ablauf, Kosten, Vorteile – was ist zu beachten?

✅ Steuern & Doppelbesteuerung: Wie vermeide ich steuerliche Fallstricke?

✅ Risikomanagement & Produkthaftung: Welche rechtlichen Besonderheiten gibt es?

✅ Fördermittel & Standortwahl: Wie nutze ich staatliche Zuschüsse optimal?

✅ Recruiting in den USA: Wie finde ich qualifizierte Fachkräfte?


📌 Flexibel buchbar: Wählen Sie den Ort und den Tag je nach Ihrem Bedarf. Gerne auch mir anderen Mitarbeitenden Ihres Hauses. Wir bieten Gruppenpreise.

📢 Jetzt Platz sichern!

👉 Mehr Infos & Anmeldung: www.gaba-seminare.de


Nutzen Sie die Gelegenheit, sich optimal auf Ihren Markteintritt in den USA vorzubereiten. Wir freuen uns auf den Austausch mit Ihnen!

Wednesday, May 21, 2025

Wer hätte das gedacht - little known facts about Germany: BIERGARTEN

 

1. German beer gardens originated in Bavaria in the 16th century.


2. Initially, beer gardens were attached to breweries to serve workers.


3. The first beer garden, "Krug's Garden," opened in Munich in 1589.


4. Beer gardens are social spaces that encourage communal seating and conversation.


5. It's customary to share tables with strangers.


6. Tipping is not expected, but rounding up the bill is appreciated.


7. Traditional beer garden fare includes Bratwurst, Schnitzel, and Pretzels.


8. Beer gardens often offer a variety of local beers.


9. Weissbier (wheat beer) is a popular choice for summer.


10. Classic beer gardens feature wooden tables, benches, and chestnut trees.


11. Some beer gardens offer live music or traditional Bavarian folk music.


12. Contemporary beer gardens often incorporate modern amenities, such as Wi-Fi and outdoor heaters.


Prost!! 🍻


Sources:

1. Deutsche Welle

2. The Culture Trip

3. Saveur

4. Smithsonian Magazine

5. German Beer Garden Association


image: iStock

Friday, May 16, 2025

*** UPDATE *** Tariff-ied Yet? Here’s What Global Companies Can Do About the New Tariff Policies.

 

The tariff landscape continues to evolve rapidly since our last update in April. Here’s what’s changed—and what it could mean for your business:

US-China Tariff De-escalation: On May 12, the U.S. and China announced a significant step back from their trade war. A mutual agreement has reduced tariffs imposed since April 2 by 115% on both sides, restoring a 10% base rate. China has also agreed to eliminate specific non-tariff countermeasures, and a 90-day bilateral trade dialogue is now underway.
EU in the Hot Seat: As tensions ease with China, the European Union has become the new focus of U.S. trade policy. The 25% levy on EU steel and aluminum remains, while an additional 50% tariff on a broad range of EU goods—from luxury cars to consumer products—could come into effect July 9 if no deal is reached.
Fast-Tracked Transatlantic Talks: In response, the EU has accelerated negotiations with the U.S., with Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič leading the charge. Discussions are centered on critical sectors, including automobiles, semiconductors, aluminum, and pharmaceuticals, in an effort to avert new tariffs.
India’s Mixed Message: India is seeking tariff relief, but simultaneously holding firm on high duties for agricultural imports such as dairy and food grains—indicating a more protectionist stance in select sectors.
Apple Under Pressure: The Trump administration has taken a pointed stance toward Apple, warning of a 25% tariff on iPhones if the company does not move production to the U.S., highlighting growing pressure on high-profile tech firms to reshore manufacturing.



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

image: iStock

Tuesday, May 13, 2025

How New Tariffs May Affect Your Work Assistant (aka Your iPhone), and Why It’s Not Just a Problem for the U.S.

 


Most people don’t think about international trade policy when they buy a new iPhone. However, during the Trump administration, when the U.S. implemented a wave of tariffs on Chinese imports, companies like Apple had to determine how to respond - and regular consumers, both in the U.S. and worldwide, are still experiencing the ripple effects.


What were the tariffs all about?

For a quick recap, the Trump administration imposed tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars' worth of goods coming from China, aiming to address issues such as unfair trade practices and intellectual property theft. That included a wide range of tech-related items: components, circuit boards, screens - essentially, the inner workings of modern electronics.


Although Apple managed to secure some early exemptions, the entire situation put the company in a difficult position. Would they eat the costs? Pass them along to consumers? Move manufacturing? All of those questions were on the table.


What did that mean for U.S. consumers?

In short, higher prices were on the horizon. Apple didn’t drastically hike prices during the height of the trade war, but there was considerable pressure. If things had kept escalating, you probably would’ve seen a price increase on future models.


Additionally, all the back-and-forth prompted Apple to reevaluate its entire supply chain. The company started looking outside of China - places like India and Vietnam - to reduce dependency. However, making those kinds of shifts isn’t easy or fast, which has led to some production delays and tighter inventory for specific models.


But here's the thing - it wasn’t just a U.S. issue.

People outside the United States also felt the impact. Although the tariffs were a U.S. policy, Apple sells its products globally. Therefore, if their costs increase in one market, it affects pricing and profit margins across all markets. Consumers in Europe, Canada, Asia, and elsewhere weren’t immune.


Additionally, relocating production out of China led to supply chain disruptions that affected global markets. If a particular model starts being manufactured in India instead of China, availability may shift depending on the region. And with all the uncertainty, global markets reacted - currencies shifted, investors got spooked, and that kind of instability affects what you pay at the checkout.


So, where are we now?

Some of those tariffs are still in place, and even with a different administration in the White House, trade policy hasn’t exactly snapped back to pre-2018 norms. Apple has continued to diversify its product manufacturing locations, which is likely a prudent long-term move. However, this diversification also means that sudden geopolitical changes, such as tariffs, can impact how quickly you receive your next iPhone or the cost of it.


Let’s be real.

Trade policy might sound dull and distant, but it hits close to home when your next iPhone gets delayed, costs more, or shows up in your country later than everyone else’s. What started as a U.S.-China issue has global consequences - and we’re all paying attention, whether we know it or not.


What does this mean for you?

Tariffs don’t just hit businesses. They change how - and how much - we pay for the tools we use every day. And your “work assistant” (aka iPhone) is no exception. If your business relies on tech, innovation, or anything imported, don’t wait until tariffs or trade policies catch you off guard. Contact Bridgehouse Law LLP to protect your intellectual property, secure your supply chain, and navigate global compliance effectively.


Dathan D'Agostino, Office Manager, BridgehouseLaw Charlotte


Thursday, May 08, 2025

Understanding International Inheritance: Legal Guidance for Cross-Border Estates


Managing a cross-border estate can be overwhelming - especially when heirs, property, or probate proceedings span multiple countries. At BridgehouseLaw LLP, our International Inheritance Lawyers guide clients through:


  • U.S. Probate for Foreign Heirs - Navigating court procedures and asset transfers in NC & SC
  • German-American Estate Law - Coordinating with notaries and probate courts across both countries
  • Cross-Border Succession Disputes - Resolving conflicts over domicile, tax liability, and jurisdiction
  • International Estate Planning - Drafting globally valid wills and minimizing inheritance tax exposure


With multilingual attorneys and transatlantic experience, we simplify international inheritance and estate administration from start to finish.


Learn More About Our International Inheritance: Probate & Succession Help


Need help with a cross-border estate? Contact BridgehouseLaw today.


Dathan D'Agostino, Office Manager, BridgehouseLaw LLP, Charlotte, NC

Thursday, April 24, 2025

Tariff-ied Yet? Here’s What Global Companies Can Do About the New Tariff Policies

The tariff landscape continues to evolve rapidly since our last update in April. Here’s what’s changed—and what it could mean for your business:

US-China Tariff De-escalation: On May 12, the U.S. and China announced a significant step back from their trade war. A mutual agreement has reduced tariffs imposed since April 2 by 115% on both sides, restoring a 10% base rate. China has also agreed to eliminate certain non-tariff countermeasures, and a 90-day bilateral trade dialogue is now underway.

EU in the Hot Seat: As tensions ease with China, the European Union has become the new focus of U.S. trade policy. The 25% levy on EU steel and aluminum remains, while an additional 50% tariff on a broad range of EU goods—from luxury cars to consumer products—could come into effect July 9 if no deal is reached.

Fast-Tracked Transatlantic Talks: In response, the EU has accelerated negotiations with the U.S., with Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič leading the charge. Talks are centered on critical sectors including automobiles, semiconductors, aluminum, and pharmaceuticals in hopes of averting new tariffs.

India’s Mixed Message: India is seeking tariff relief, but simultaneously holding firm on high duties for agricultural imports such as dairy and food grains—indicating a more protectionist stance in select sectors.

Apple Under Pressure: The Trump administration has taken a pointed stance toward Apple, warning of a 25% tariff on iPhones if the company does not move production to the U.S., highlighting growing pressure on high-profile tech firms to reshore manufacturing.


Zinyah Robison, Law Clerk, Charlotte, NC


Wednesday, April 23, 2025

U.S. Sanctions Compliance: What Italian Businesses Must Know

As part of our ongoing effort to support our international clients operating across borders, we’re highlighting a topic of growing importance: U.S. economic sanctions and their impact on Italian businesses.



As global commerce becomes increasingly interconnected, Italian businesses — whether in finance, manufacturing, energy, or tech — are more likely than ever to find themselves subject to the reach of U.S. sanctions. While many Italian companies assume that U.S. laws do not apply to their operations unless they have a physical presence in the United States, the long arm of U.S. sanctions law says otherwise.


Let's explore how U.S. sanctions can impact Italian companies and the legal steps international clients can take to ensure compliance and avoid costly enforcement actions.


     I.        Why U.S. Sanctions Matter to Italian Firms

The U.S. Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), enforces economic and trade sanctions based on U.S. foreign policy and national security goals. These sanctions target countries (e.g., Russia, Iran, North Korea), individuals, entities, and even sectors (like energy or defense tech). The sanctions are enforced against a broad list of countries, individuals, and business sectors. Even if a transaction involves non-U.S. parties, Italian companies may still fall under OFAC jurisdiction if:

  • The transaction is in U.S. dollars;
  • A U.S. person or entity is involved (even indirectly);
  • The product includes U.S.-origin components, software, or IP;
  • Funds transit the U.S. financial system, even momentarily.

In short, proximity to the U.S. — not just physical presence — triggers legal risk.


Last, even without a U.S. branch or office, Italian companies can fall under U.S. jurisdiction — sometimes inadvertently.


   II.        Real-World Risk Scenarios

Several common international business scenarios have drawn OFAC’s scrutiny, including:

  • Exporting to a third country that resells to a sanctioned region (e.g., Russia, Iran);
  • Joint ventures or partnerships with U.S. investors or advisors;
  • International wire transfers that route through U.S. banks (especially in USD);
  • Use of cloud-based services or software developed in the U.S.


Continuing, other common scenarios that trigger risk:

  1. Using U.S. Dollars in Transactions
  2. Most global trade is denominated in U.S. dollars, and dollar transactions typically pass through U.S. banks. This alone can give OFAC jurisdiction over a deal between two non-U.S. entities.
  3. Supplying U.S.-Origin Goods to a Sanctioned Market
  4. Italian exporters who re-export goods or software that include U.S. content (like microchips, cloud services, or machinery) must comply with U.S. export controls. Even low percentages of U.S. tech in a product can trigger restrictions.
  5. Banking Exposure
  6. Italian financial institutions that process international wire transfers may be caught between European neutrality and U.S. restrictions. For instance, EU companies working with Iranian clients under INSTEX structures have still faced de-risking by U.S.-exposed banks.
  7. Joint Ventures with U.S. Entities
  8. Any cross-border venture that involves a U.S. shareholder, partner, or financier requires sanctions screening and compliance due diligence.

 

  III.        Enforcement is Real — and Expensive

In recent years, OFAC has pursued enforcement actions not only against American companies but against foreign firms as well. European banks, shipping companies, and logistics providers have all faced multimillion-dollar penalties for violating sanctions — sometimes due to a single transaction. Even when not fined, companies found to be in breach can be “blacklisted,” face frozen assets or lose access to U.S. financial services — a near-death sentence for many international businesses.


  IV.        What You Can Do Now

To protect your business and maintain compliance, we recommend the following proactive steps:

  1. Screen All Counterparties: Regularly check business partners — and their ownership structures — against OFAC’s Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) list.
  2. Understand Your Supply Chain: Determine whether any U.S. content or technology is embedded in your goods or software.
  3. Assess Financial Flows: Trace how payments move. Transactions in U.S. dollars or routed through the U.S. may trigger sanctions compliance obligations.
  4. Develop an Internal Compliance Program: Establish protocols, employee training, and documentation practices that align with OFAC expectations.
  5. Monitor Regulatory Changes/Stay Updated: Sanctions policies evolve rapidly, with legal counsel, monitoring changes related to especially politically sensitive areas like Russia, China, and the Middle East.
  6. Engage U.S. Legal Counsel Early: When in doubt, seek advice before entering into contracts or transactions with potential exposure.
  7. Know Your Customer (and Their Customers): Implement robust due diligence and screening for all counterparties, including subsidiaries and beneficial owners. This includes checking against OFAC’s SDN (Specially Designated Nationals) list.
  8. Stay Updated: Sanctions lists and rules change quickly, especially in times of geopolitical conflict.

 

   V.        Conclusion

Last, for Italian exporters and financial institutions, ignorance is no longer an excuse. U.S. sanctions law has a global reach — and the cost of noncompliance can be severe. With proper diligence, screening, and legal advice, Italian companies can stay protected while continuing to do business in a complex international landscape.


Final Thought

At BridgeHouseLaw Firm, we help Italian clients navigate the intersection of U.S. law and international trade with clarity, strategy, and confidence. If your business is involved in cross-border deals, exports, or investment transactions that may touch U.S. systems or laws, we encourage you to contact our International Compliance Team for a confidential consultation.


Salvatore internicola, Law Clerk, BridgehouseLaw LLP, Charlotte, NC

image: UK ETA app

Thursday, April 10, 2025

Environmental Law in South Africa: Protecting the Nation’s Natural Resources


Environmental law in South Africa plays a crucial role in safeguarding the country’s diverse ecosystems, ensuring sustainable development, and addressing the impacts of climate change. With its rich biodiversity, South Africa faces unique challenges in balancing economic growth with environmental conservation. The country’s legal framework is grounded in the Constitution, which enshrines the right to an environment that is not harmful to health and well-being.


The cornerstone of South Africa’s environmental law is the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA), which establishes principles for sustainable environmental management and guides the formulation of policies and regulations. NEMA emphasizes the need for integrated environmental management and public participation in decision-making processes, ensuring that environmental considerations are central to all development activities.


South Africa’s environmental law also includes a variety of other pieces of legislation aimed at protecting specific aspects of the environment. The Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (CARA) focuses on land conservation and preventing the degradation of agricultural resources. The National Water Act governs the country’s water resources, aiming to ensure their sustainable use and equitable distribution, while the Biodiversity Act addresses the protection of South Africa's rich plant and animal species.


In addition to national legislation, South Africa is a signatory to several international agreements, such as the Paris Agreement on climate change, which influences domestic environmental policies and actions. The country’s commitment to sustainable development is further evident in its participation in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs), particularly those related to environmental protection.


Despite these robust legal frameworks, challenges remain, including enforcement, illegal activities such as poaching and mining, and balancing economic interests with environmental preservation. However, South Africa continues to make strides toward creating a more sustainable and environmentally conscious
society.


Crystal McBride, Attorney, BridgehouseLaw LLP, Charlotte, NC

Tuesday, April 08, 2025

2025 UK ETA Requirements: What Travelers Need to Know

In 2025, the United Kingdom will fully implement the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, a new travel authorization for visitors from visa-exempt countries. This system aims to streamline the entry process, enhance border security, and improve overall immigration management. The UK ETA will be required for all eligible travelers, making it a vital step for those planning to visit the UK.


The UK ETA is mandatory for citizens of countries that currently enjoy visa-free travel to the UK for short visits, typically up to six months. These travelers will need to apply for the ETA before their journey. The application process is entirely online and relatively simple: applicants must provide personal details, travel information, and answer a few questions regarding the purpose of their visit. The system is designed to approve most applications quickly, with decisions often made within minutes. However, travelers are encouraged to apply at least 72 hours in advance of their travel.



One key aspect of the 2025 UK ETA is its digital nature. There are no physical documents or stamps; the authorization is electronically linked to the traveler’s passport. It will be required for air, sea, and rail travelers, ensuring greater security and efficiency at UK border crossings.


Travelers must meet certain eligibility criteria to apply for the UK ETA. The application is available to individuals from countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and Japan, who do not need a full visa for short stays. However, the ETA is not for those planning to stay for work, study, or longer periods—those individuals will still need to apply for a specific visa.


As the UK ETA system rolls out, travelers planning visits in 2025 must ensure they comply with these new entry requirements to avoid complications at the border.


Travelers can find the UK ETA app in Google Play and Apple App Store.

 

Crystal McBride, Attorney, BridgehouseLaw LLP, Charlotte, NC

Tuesday, April 01, 2025

April Fools' Day in Crisis

 
april-fools-day-lettering-illustration_603843-1149 image

The origins of April Fools' Day can be traced back to the 16th century when France switched from the Julian to the Gregorian calendar in 1582. People who continued to use the old calendar and still celebrated the new year at the end of March or the beginning of April were mocked by those who had already adopted the new calendar. These “April fools” were tricked with pranks and jokes. This tradition has continued to this day, and April 1st has become a day where humorous pranks and surprises take center stage worldwide.


But while April Fools' Day used to be considered light-hearted fun, today it seems to be in crisis. The reason is that more and more people take pranks and jokes far too seriously and quickly feel offended. A harmless prank is no longer seen as a humorous surprise but as a personal insult or attack. 


The reasons for this are obvious: when misunderstandings and tensions are rife, people are often more susceptible to anything they perceive as unfavorable. April 1st, which initially stood for lightness and humor, is increasingly perceived as inappropriate, especially when the fun comes at the expense of others. Jokes that were once considered harmless can now be perceived as disrespectful or hurtful.


But this is precisely where the opportunity lies: April Fools' Day jokes should not force us into the victim role but encourage us to laugh at ourselves and not lose our sense of humor. After all, humor is an essential tool for dealing with life's stressful and difficult moments. If you can laugh at yourself, you don't take everyday life quite so seriously and can face difficult times with a smile.


It's perfectly fine not to find a joke funny, but it's just as important to find the humor in minor, harmless pranks. Instead of immediately feeling offended, we could learn to see the joke for what it is - a little break from the stresses of everyday life and an invitation not to take ourselves too seriously.


So, let's use April 1st to bring humor back to the forefront and not immediately get defensive. It's okay to fall for a harmless joke - sometimes, it helps to laugh at yourself and enjoy the moment because a bit of humor is good for all of us, especially in difficult times.


Moritz von Lengerke, Referendar, BridgehouseLaw Charlotte

Friday, March 21, 2025

Legal Best Practices for Carrying Immigration Documents

 A Guide for International Visitors and Residents in the US

Navigating U.S. immigration policies can be challenging, and recent incidents highlight the importance of proper documentation. There have been cases where individuals—including immigrants, nonimmigrants, and even U.S. citizens—were detained simply because they couldn’t immediately prove their legal status.


A well-known example happened in 2011 when a German executive visiting a Mercedes branch in Alabama was stopped for a routine traffic check. At the time, Alabama had a law requiring officers to arrest individuals suspected of being undocumented. Because the executive wasn’t carrying his passport, he was detained in jail until his colleague retrieved it from his hotel. While that specific law has since been repealed, some states still have agreements with federal authorities that allow local law enforcement to check immigration status, which can lead to similar situations.



To avoid unnecessary complications, here are some simple and effective best practices for carrying identification and immigration documents:

  • Carry Official Documents When Possible – If feasible, keep your original immigration documents with you, such as a visa, green card, or passport, as proof of your legal presence in the U.S.
  • Keep a Copy Handy – A clear copy (printed or digital) can be a helpful backup if carrying the original document isn't practical. Some valuable documents to have copies of include:
  • A picture or scanned copy of your visa or green card
  • I-797 approval notices
  • A copy of your passport’s identification page
  • A state-issued ID or driver’s license
  • Be Aware of Local Laws – Some states work with federal immigration authorities, giving local law enforcement more power to check immigration status. Knowing the laws in your state can help you be prepared.
  • Know Your Rights – If you are detained or questioned about your immigration status, you can remain silent and ask for legal representation. If this happens, contacting an immigration attorney as soon as possible can help resolve the situation quickly.


While carrying identification won’t prevent an officer from stopping you, it can make the process much smoother and significantly reduce the risk of detention.


Kelsey Greene, Law Clerk, BridgehouseLaw, Charlotte

Tuesday, March 18, 2025

Regarding Awareness of Potential Abandonment of Lawful Permanent Resident Status

Many green card holders are unaware that they can quickly, and potentially accidentally, sign away their lawful permanent resident status at a US port of entry. In a recent situation described on social media, a green card holder was pressured by a Customs and Border Protection officer to sign a Form I-407 Record of Abandonment of Lawful Permanent Resident Status and accidentally abandoned their green card status.

An immigration officer may ask green card holders to confirm whether they have given up permanent US residency at a US port of entry. Common triggers for this line of questioning include an absence of approximately 6 months or more from the US. However, green card holders must understand that they are not required to abandon their lawful permanent resident status in such a situation and can always defend their situation or request legal counsel as necessary – abandoning permanent resident status via a Form I-407 is a voluntary action.

 

Moreover, green card holders should be aware that options for recourse include refusing to sign a Form I-407, seeking legal counsel, seeking the right to be heard by an immigration judge, or contacting the consulate of their country of origin. Preemptively, green card holders may maintain documents demonstrating ongoing US permanent residency such as mortgage and utility payments, tax or employer pay records, driver’s licenses, etc.

 

Generally, we would not expect an immigration officer to pressure green card holders to abandon their lawful permanent residency at a US port of entry. However, green card holders should always be aware of their rights and the methods they may employ to defend them.


Should you have questions about your legal status, please contact us.

 

Cole Haaf, Attonrey, BridgehouseLaw LLP, Charlotte, NC

Monday, March 17, 2025

St. Patrick’s Day: Fun Facts & Safe Celebrations

St. Patrick’s Day is a time for celebration. While many associate the holiday with parades, shamrocks, and all things green, it has a rich history worth remembering—the holiday honors Saint Patrick, credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland. Interestingly, Saint Patrick was born in Roman Britain but became well-known for his missionary work in Ireland.


Each year, the Irish Taoiseach (leader) presents a bowl of shamrocks to the U.S. President, a tradition that began in 1950. According to folklore, wearing green makes you invisible to mischievous leprechauns known for pinching those they see. This is why people often pinch those who forget to wear green! One of the most famous St. Patrick’s Day celebrations happens in Chicago, where the river is dyed green. The effect lasts about five hours and has been a tradition since 1962.


While St. Patrick’s Day is a time for fun, it’s also important to celebrate responsibly. Many people don’t realize that DWIs (Driving While Impaired) aren’t just limited to cars. In North Carolina and many other states, you can get a DWI for riding a horse, operating a tractor, a bicycle, or even an electric scooter under the influence.


North Carolina has some other unusual laws that might surprise you. Bars can have daily specials, but specific happy hour discounts on alcohol are prohibited. It’s illegal to drink alcohol while playing bingo. Technically, singing off-key in public is against the law—though enforcement is questionable.



As you enjoy St. Patrick’s Day, keep these quirky laws in mind and, most importantly, stay safe. Whether you’re out with friends, attending a parade, or just enjoying the festivities at home, have a great time celebrating responsibly!


Happy St. Patrick’s Day!


Kelsey Greene, Law Clerk, BridgehouseLaw, Charlotte
 

Friday, March 14, 2025

The Importance of Fonts in Branding: Lessons from Patagonia's Ridgway Song


In this episode, Reinhard von Hennigs discusses the creation of Ridgway Song, a new typeface designed by Patagonia in honor of a former colleague. 
The video emphasizes the broader implications of custom typeface creation for businesses, including the legal complexities surrounding font ownership and licensing. 
Case studies, like Warner Brothers' legal trouble in 2011 and the infamous Comic Sans, highlight the importance of proper font usage. 
The episode closes with an invitation for viewers to share their own font creations and considerations for branding through new typography. 

Tuesday, March 11, 2025

OOTD and Leadership: Lessons from Poshmark CEO Manish Chandra


Reinhard von Hennigs discusses the concept of OOTD (Outfit of the Day) and how CEO Manish Chandra of Poshmark leverages this trend by allowing his youngest team members to curate his daily outfits. This practice helps Chandra stay relevant in the fashion industry and maintain a connection with younger employees. Von Hennigs highlights this approach as a modern leadership method and explores its business implications, including legal challenges related to trademark use on social media. He also prompts global business leaders to consider how they engage with younger employees to stay ahead of trends.

 

Monday, March 10, 2025

 


Reinhard von Hennigs discusses McDonald's latest packaging innovation: the table bag, which serves as both a bag and a table. Launched at Milan Design Week, this product merges fancy design, sustainability, and a unique consumer experience. The script emphasizes the importance of packaging in driving sales and brand engagement, citing how packaging innovations stand out in global markets. Legal considerations, like patents and recyclability, also play crucial roles. The table bag exemplifies how packaging can be a strategic tool for business growth and differentiation in the competitive market.

Friday, March 07, 2025

Preserving Digital Heritage: Challenge of Saving Classic Video Games and...


Reinhard von Hennigs discusses the importance of preserving digital video game heritage in an era of rapid technological advancement.
According to a Video Game History Foundation study, 87% of games released before 2010 are not commercially available, leading to cultural loss and potential legal challenges. Companies like Nintendo have tried to re-release older titles on newer systems, but these efforts are limited.
Significant legal issues surround intellectual property rights, licensing agreements, and jurisdictional questions related to digital preservation. The need for collective agreements to create and use game libraries is emphasized.
Reinhard draws parallels between the gaming industry and global business innovation, suggesting that companies balance tradition with innovation to maintain their core values while progressing forward.

Thursday, March 06, 2025

Show Me Your I-9's


The first quarter of the calendar year, Q1 in business lingo, is a great time to perform an internal audit of a company’s personnel records. I’m not talking about wading into the deep end of the personnel file cabinet and looking through all of the employee files; I’m talking about making sure the mandatory forms are correct, complete, and stored in an accessible manner. I’m talking about the USCIS Employment Eligibility Verification Form, better known as the “I-9”.


Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of the I-9.


1.    What is the I-9? The I-9 is an immigration form, not a business form. US immigration law dictates that every business operating in the US, regardless of size or citizenship status, must complete I-9 forms for all new hires.


2.    Who completes the I-9 and when? Every new hire Employee MUST complete Section 1 on day 1Employers must complete Section 2 within three (3) business days from the new hire’s first day of work. Section 3 is only used if the employer needs to reverify an employee’s eligibility to work or if the employee is a rehire within the last 3 years from the date the original I-9 was completed. I-9 Reverification must be done before the date the current employment authorization expires.


3.    Where should employers keep I-9s? A best practice is to keep the I-9s in a separate binder or eFolder separate from the employee file and easily accessible for an I-9 audit.


4.    How long do Employers need to keep I-9 records? Employers MUST retain employee I-9 forms for as long as the employee is employed by the employer. The records can be paper or electronic but must be legible and able to be produced as a paper copy.


5.    Do Employers need to keep I-9s for terminated employees? YES, Employers must retain I-9 forms for terminated employees for either one (1) year after the employment relationship ends, OR three (3) years after the initial date of employment – which ever date is later.


6.    Which agency audits I-9 forms? The Department of Homeland Security through US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is charged with performing I-9 inspections. DHS/ICE will issue a Notice of Inspection (NOI) to employers requiring the employer to produce some or all of the I-9 Forms attached to the employer.


7.    What are the consequences of failing an I-9 inspection? Employers receive ten (10) business days to correct technical or procedural failures and will need to submit the corrections for verification, or DHS can impose monetary fines on the employer. The fines range from $218.00 to $27,894.00 PER VIOLATION. Employers with substantive violations, uncorrected audit failures, and/or employ unauthorized workers are subject to: forced business closure, higher civil fines, and criminal prosecution.


Most employers don’t perform internal I-9 audits to fix simple errors until it’s too late. Making an I-9 audit part of a business’s regular bookkeeping practice can save a company a lot of money and ensure that when an ICE audit happens the employer can readily supply the requested documents. BridgehouseLaw LLP can help. Our firm can perform an I-9 audit, provide a list of discrepancies, and ensure employer I-9 compliance.


Please reach out to BridgehouseLaw at (980)219-5200 or to Crystal McBride at crystal.mcbride@bridgehouse.law for more information and a quote.


Crystal McBride, Attorney, BridgehouseLaw Charlotte