Virginia Beach, VA Business and Corporate Attorney News Archive (Page 7)

NORFOLK, Va. – A new Target store is coming to 201 E. Little Creek Road in Norfolk, promising to enhance the local business scene. This development is the result of concerted efforts by city officials aimed at boosting economic growth and supporting nearby commercial businesses.

While the opening details are yet to be announced, this project could involve various aspects of corporate law, including real estate transactions and potential civil litigation related to the location.

Local elected officials believe that the new store will draw more customers to the area, ultimately benefiting surrounding businesses. Keep an eye out for updates on this exciting addition to the Wards Corner community.

Mid Atlantic Dairy Queen, LLC, which operates locations in Virginia Beach and Norfolk, has agreed to a $145,000 settlement with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) in response to sexual harassment allegations from former employees. This settlement follows charges that the company did not adequately address inappropriate conduct at its Granby Street and Landstown locations between July 2022 and February 2023.

EEOC Director Norberto Rosa-Ramos highlighted the critical need for employer accountability in workplace discrimination cases. He stressed the importance of implementing effective measures to combat sexual harassment in the workplace.

As part of the settlement, Dairy Queen must not only provide monetary restitution but also revamp its discrimination policies and conduct training to prevent future incidents. This case serves as an important reminder of the responsibilities employers have in ensuring a safe and equitable work environment within Virginia’s business landscape.

Virginia's real estate market is undergoing significant changes as the number of available listings rises, giving buyers more leverage. In July, the state saw an influx of 13,898 new properties, particularly in Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads. This contributed to a remarkable sold volume of $5.6 billion statewide.

Lorraine Arora, the 2025 President of Virginia Realtors, points out that while home prices have been on the upswing, the growth rate is beginning to slow. This shift may signal a turning point for local markets.

With the current median sales price at $435,000, it could be the perfect time for potential buyers to consider their options. Additionally, the increase in inventory is resulting in homes staying on the market longer, as the statewide median days on the market has now reached 15 days.

A recent report from Roanoke College indicates a modest improvement in consumer sentiment across Virginia. The Virginia Index of Consumer Sentiment has increased by one point, reaching a level of 64.6. Residents are feeling more optimistic about their financial situations, largely due to steady wage growth. However, concerns about potential inflation, particularly stemming from tariffs, continue to weigh on their minds.

Dr. Alice Kassens, an economist at Roanoke College, emphasizes the resilience of Virginia's labor market. This is evidenced by a healthy number of job openings, even as unemployment insurance claims have increased. Virginia's unemployment rate remains low at 3.6%, notably better than the national average, showcasing the state’s strong economic fundamentals.

As Virginians face a complex employment landscape while grappling with ongoing inflation fears, finding the right balance between optimism and caution is essential for navigating their financial futures.

A Norfolk resident was struck by a school bus on Thursday afternoon while walking alongside a bicycle on East Princess Anne Road. The incident raised concerns about pedestrian safety in Virginia.

According to police, the collision took place around 1:25 p.m. in the 800 block, where the pedestrian reportedly entered the roadway without realizing the danger. Thankfully, the injuries sustained were not life-threatening, and the individual has been taken to a local hospital for treatment.

Local civil litigation experts have emphasized the importance of understanding liability in these types of accidents. Notably, the pedestrian received a summons following the incident, highlighting the complexities involved. This event underscores the ongoing discussions regarding personal injury law and pedestrian rights, particularly in the context of Norfolk's busy streets.

Virginia Beach City Public Schools (VBCPS) employees are facing a shocking 110% increase in health insurance premiums, set to take effect on January 1, 2026. This steep rise has sparked unrest among educators and led to a lawsuit against Superintendent Dr. Donald Robertson.

During a recent school board meeting, discussions emerged about exploring alternative options to reduce the financial burden. These options could potentially save employees millions of dollars, but implementing them would necessitate reallocating current budget funds.

The escalating healthcare costs have left many employees feeling disheartened, particularly as they believe that recent salary increases will be overshadowed by the upcoming premium hikes. Attorney Tim Anderson, who is representing over 100 educators in this matter, has criticized the communication surrounding the premium increase, indicating that many employees still have unanswered questions.

As the civil litigation unfolds, there is growing anticipation regarding how many more educators might choose to join the legal action in the upcoming week.

A former Eastville police sergeant, Jerry Keith Brady Jr., is currently facing serious charges in Norfolk, Virginia. He has been indicted on 12 counts of wire fraud and two counts of money laundering, allegedly accumulating nearly $820,000 from unlawful activities.

According to court documents, Brady misled victims by convincing them they needed to send him money to settle supposed debts linked to an insurance policy from a deceased relative. This fraudulent scheme operated from November 2020 to October 2024 and involved written agreements promising victims repayment once the funds were accessed.

This high-profile case raises significant concerns about trust within law enforcement and opens discussions on civil litigation risks for those who have fallen victim to such scams. As these legal proceedings unfold, the Eastville community is keenly observing the developments, while Brady remains at large with an arrest warrant issued for him.

Virginia Beach, VA – A noteworthy development has emerged for local educators, as over 100 employees of the Virginia Beach public schools are taking legal action against Superintendent Dr. Don Robertson. The educators allege that Dr. Robertson concealed significant health insurance premium increases until after their contracts were finalized.

In response to the rising healthcare costs, the Virginia Beach School Board has called for an urgent meeting on August 27 at the administration building. During this meeting, Attorney Tim Anderson, who is representing the plaintiffs, believes the Board will address potential solutions to mitigate the proposed 110% premium hike. Without intervention, this increase could severely impact educators’ salaries and bonuses.

The lawsuit aims to prevent these drastic financial consequences, seeking jury-awarded damages as well as judicial intervention to stop the rate increases. Additionally, local organizations, including the Virginia Beach Education Association, are rallying support for the cause. A rally is planned to advocate for fair employment benefits and more affordable insurance costs.

After Hurricane Erin brought strong winds and heavy flooding, Dominion Energy quickly mobilized crews from Northern Virginia and Richmond to restore power to 5,000 residents in the Outer Banks. Cherise Newsome, a spokesperson for Dominion Energy, highlighted that their efficient deployment of resources significantly reduced the duration of the outages.

Despite the challenging weather conditions, Dominion's proactive approach has ensured they are prepared for such events, having replaced over 8,000 aging utility poles since 2019. This commitment to resilient infrastructure not only emphasizes public safety but also has important implications for business and real estate law in the region.

In Virginia, local officials are backing these efforts, as they work through civil litigation and recovery processes related to the impacts of natural disasters.

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. – The 63rd annual surfing event kicked off on Friday, drawing over 800 surfers from around the globe to Virginia's iconic coastline, thanks to the impressive wave conditions created by Hurricane Erin. This long-standing competition not only celebrates beach culture but also features divisions for all skill levels, ranging from juniors to seasoned masters. Participant Kyle Gayle from Panama highlighted the excitement surrounding the event.

In addition to exhilarating surf competitions, the festival offers BMX, skateboard demonstrations, and live entertainment, fostering a sense of community among locals and visitors alike. While the aftermath of the storm has enhanced the waves for competition, red flags remain in place as a warning for novice swimmers who are enjoying the coastal activities.

Local business representatives and elected officials view the event as a boon for tourism and local commerce, especially in light of ongoing civil litigation and developments in real estate law in the area. The optimism surrounding this year's festival reflects a collective hope for economic growth and community engagement.

As remnants of Hurricane Erin create significant tidal flooding in Norfolk and Virginia Beach, residents are experiencing the dangers of navigating submerged streets. Local figure Yoni Warren raised alarms about the rising waters, highlighting the risks associated with driving through flooded areas, particularly those notorious for such occurrences.

Street closures have led to disruptions in essential city services, prompting Norfolk to postpone trash collection until Saturday. Meanwhile, Virginia Beach faced unprecedented flooding near the Lynnhaven Inlet, leading locals like Stephen Utley to document the alarming scenes.

With the issues of civil litigation and real estate law becoming increasingly relevant in these regions, local officials are urging caution for anyone traveling through the affected neighborhoods.

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Alumni of Virginia Wesleyan University are voicing their dissatisfaction following the Board of Trustees' unanimous decision to rename the institution to Batten University, a change set to take effect on July 1. As a petition opposing the renaming gathers momentum with nearly 2,000 signatures, former student Devin Cowhey has highlighted the university's failure to communicate effectively about this significant decision. Many alumni feel a growing disconnect from what they perceive as the school's rich heritage.

University president Scott Miller has acknowledged the Batten family’s important contributions to the school's development throughout the years. However, alumni argue that while the family's philanthropic efforts are commendable, it is essential to maintain the legacy of Virginia Wesleyan within Virginia’s higher education landscape.

With tensions escalating among the graduates, there is a strong call for a reconsideration of this major branding shift. They believe it could significantly impact the school’s identity and its ties to the community.

Virginia's housing market is experiencing a notable surge in listings, according to a recent report from Virginia REALTORS. In July, 13,898 properties were added to the market, marking almost a 12% increase compared to last year.

Lorraine Arora, who serves as the President of Virginia REALTORS for 2025, highlighted that more than half of local markets, especially in Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads, have seen a boost in sales activity, contributing to a total of $5.6 billion in transactions statewide.

While the influx of new listings is encouraging, median home prices have climbed modestly. The current statewide median price is $435,000, reflecting a rise of just over two percent from the previous year.

Chief Economist Ryan Price points out that although home prices are still increasing, the market may be shifting towards a more balanced state, which could result in slower price growth moving forward. Homes are now staying on the market longer, with an average of 15 days in July, indicating that the real estate landscape in Virginia is evolving to meet the changing needs of buyers and investors.

In a notable civil litigation case, over 100 educators from Virginia Beach City Public Schools are taking legal action against Superintendent Dr. Don Robertson. They allege that he concealed important information about significant health insurance premium increases. These hikes, set to take effect on January 1, 2026, could severely impact their wages and benefits, threatening the morale of a workforce exceeding 10,000 employees.

Attorney Tim Anderson, representing the plaintiffs, emphasizes that timely information regarding premium increases is vital for employee retention. Many faculty members depend heavily on salary raises and bonuses, which could be significantly affected by the rising costs of healthcare.

Meanwhile, the School Board, chaired by Kathleen Brown, is considering financial solutions, including the potential use of reversion funds to provide premium relief. However, city officials are expressing caution regarding the reallocation of resources.

As this situation develops within Virginia Beach’s corporate landscape, the outcome of the lawsuit may establish important precedents for employment conditions in the region's educational sector.

As Hurricane Erin nears Virginia Beach, local entrepreneurs and residents are preparing for possible disruptions. Alexa Schwantes, the manager of Ocean Eddie’s, stresses the importance of caution as the storm could bring wind gusts of up to 50 mph and waves reaching 10 feet.

Chris Thoman from 21st Street Seafood Company points out a trend among businesses securing outdoor spaces in response to the red flags lining the beach. With evacuation orders in place for the Outer Banks, many anticipate an influx of visitors looking for shelter at the lively Oceanfront.

In light of the storm's impending threat, local establishments are encouraging patrons to explore their indoor offerings. They invite everyone to take a moment to enjoy Virginia's culinary delights while prioritizing safety during this challenging time.

As Hurricane Erin is expected to drift well offshore past Virginia Beach, residents of Sandbridge remain calm about the potential for tidal flooding. Local emergency management director David Topczynski has reassured the community, urging homeowners to secure their properties. This advice comes as visitors, including newlyweds Ean Flick, adjust their vacation plans in light of the approaching storm.

Experienced resident Stephen Sattie expressed confidence that the storm’s impact will be minimal, drawing on memories of previous storms along the Outer Banks. Meanwhile, local businesses are preparing for any possible civil litigation that may arise from property damage, while also navigating the complexities of real estate law obligations.

As high tides approach, authorities are stressing the importance of staying informed and are not yet advising evacuation measures. The community continues to monitor the situation closely, balancing caution with a positive outlook.

As Hurricane Erin approaches the Virginia Beach coast, city officials are preparing for potential challenges, including civil unrest due to flooding and strong winds. Deputy Director Katie Boone stated that emergency departments are currently inspecting storm drainage systems and increasing staffing levels to effectively manage any crises that may arise.

Local businesses are being urged to secure outdoor items that could pose hazards if dislodged by the storm. Emergency medical services are on high alert for anticipated power outages and a surge in call volumes.

The city has laid out critical safety steps for residents and the community. This includes the importance of having evacuation plans in place and making vehicles ready for relocation to higher ground. To stay updated on the situation, residents are encouraged to follow city social media channels and official alerts as the storm progresses.

In response to Hurricane Erin, Currituck County, Virginia, has declared a local state of emergency and initiated mandatory evacuations for the off-road area of Corolla. County Manager Dan Scanlon and other local officials have warned that beach access routes may become impassable by Thursday afternoon due to expected flooding.

Residents are encouraged to reach out to Currituck County Emergency Management for evacuation assistance and to ensure they bring their household pets when evacuating. With power outages anticipated and emergency response timelines potentially impacted, it is vital for those in the area to stay updated through Currituck Alert.

Furthermore, beachgoers are being advised to exercise caution, as double red flags have been posted along the ocean. These measures highlight safety concerns amid ongoing civil litigation related to challenges in natural disaster response.

Virginia legislators, including Del. Anne Ferrell Tata and Del. Cliff Hayes, are currently navigating the intricate relationship between AI chatbot technology and its implications for the business and employment sectors. They are being urged to consider how these advancements might affect consumers' health and security.

Kira Allmann, the chief policy analyst for the Joint Commission on Technology and Science, has raised important points regarding the dual nature of AI chatbots. While these tools can be beneficial, they also pose significant privacy risks. The discussion highlights the urgent need for legal frameworks that can address potential issues related to emotional dependency and data misuse, particularly as AI becomes increasingly integrated into the workforce.

As Virginia's community colleges begin adopting AI solutions to improve student support, the state's initiatives reflect a broader trend of embracing technology. However, this also emphasizes the importance of implementing appropriate regulations. Lawmakers have the crucial task of ensuring that human factors are central to conversations about governing emerging technologies, balancing innovation with consumer protection.

PORTSMOUTH, Va. — Authorities are investigating the theft of $22,500 from the Portsmouth Town Club, owned by Mike Wilson. The Portsmouth Police and Virginia State Police are working together on this case, which involved a group of four suspects. Surveillance cameras at the club captured the suspicious activity, revealing a complex scheme of deception.

Mike Wilson expressed his distress over the incident, noting that the stolen funds were meant to support charitable causes, especially for children battling cancer.

Local legal experts specializing in business and corporate law are closely monitoring the situation as the investigation continues. Meanwhile, the Town Club is enhancing security measures, while the community remains alert to potential civil litigation implications from this unfortunate event.