How Could California’s AB5 Bill Affect My Business? What Is the ABC Rule?
If you run a business in California, you’ve probably heard of Assembly Bill 5 (AB5), also known as the “gig worker bill.” Since taking effect in January 2020, AB5 has transformed how employers classify workers — especially independent contractors.
Failing to understand AB5 could expose your business to penalties, lawsuits, or back taxes. Here’s what you need to know.
Can an Undocumented Immigrant Fly on Domestic Flights in the U.S.?
Many undocumented immigrants in the United States wonder if they can travel by plane within the country without facing legal consequences. The short answer is yes — undocumented immigrants can board domestic flights, but there are critical considerations, risks, and documentation requirements to keep in mind.
Adjustment of Status vs. Consular Processing: Which Is Right for You?
Navigating the path to permanent residency in the United States can feel overwhelming. Two primary routes are available for obtaining a green card: Adjustment of Status (AOS) and Consular Processing (CP). Both lead to lawful permanent residence but take very different paths.
Understanding the differences between these options is essential for making an informed decision. Your choice will affect processing times, costs, and whether you can remain in the U.S. during the application process. This guide breaks down both pathways, including their pros, cons, and real-life examples to help you determine the best route for your situation.
Do I Need a Trademark or a Copyright?
A Simple Guide for Creators, Startups & Entrepreneurs
If you’re launching a new brand, product, or creative project, protecting your intellectual property (IP) is a must. But when it comes to legal protection, most people get stuck on one key question:
“Do I need a trademark or a copyright?”
At LUM Law Group, we help creators, startups, and business owners across Los Angeles and beyond protect their work, brand, and legacy. In this guide, we’ll explain the difference between trademark vs copyright, so you can confidently take your next step.
Can a foreigner register a Company in California?
Do You Own a U.S. LLC as a Non-Resident? Here’s What You Need to Know About Filing Form 5472 and Form 1120
“When I Was Your Man” by Bruno Mars vs. “Flowers” by Miley Cyrus: A Legal Perspective on Copyright in Music
Bruno Mars’ “When I Was Your Man” and Miley Cyrus’ “Flowers” have sparked discussions about music copyright, highlighting the fine line between inspiration and infringement. While their thematic similarities raise questions, legal experts emphasize that copyright disputes focus on protectable elements like melodies and lyrics, not general ideas. At Lum Law Group, we help artists navigate copyright law, from securing rights to resolving disputes, so creators can innovate with confidence.
How AI is Changing the Rules for Copyrighted Works
AI is transforming how we create—but who owns what it makes? At Lum Law Group, we break down how U.S. copyright law is responding to AI-generated content, the legal challenges creators face, and how to protect your work in this new frontier.
H1-B Visa Application Process for FY2026
The H1-B visa serves as a critical gateway for U.S. employers to recruit skilled foreign professionals in fields including IT, engineering, healthcare, and finance. With increasing demand and updated USCIS guidelines, staying ahead of the process is essential.
Trademarks Containing Generic Words Can Be Registered
The U.S. Supreme Court’s recent ruling now allows businesses to trademark domain names with generic terms, a game-changer for protecting online identities. Trademarking your domain name is crucial to shielding your brand, building credibility, and increasing its value. Need help navigating the process? Attorney A. Justin Lum, Esq., specializes in trademark law and can guide you every step of the way. Call 626-795-8886 today to protect your brand!
What If I Cannot Afford a Lawsuit?
Avoid Costly Lawsuits: Alternative Dispute Resolution for Small Business Owners
Litigation can be expensive and time-consuming for small business owners facing disputes. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methods like negotiation, mediation, and arbitration offer faster, cost-effective ways to resolve conflicts while preserving relationships. Learn about ADR options and how they can help you save time and money.
How To Prove “Good Moral Character”?
Proving “good moral character” is crucial for many U.S. immigration applications, including naturalization, waivers, and discretionary relief. This guide explains what it means, actions that may disqualify you, and how to demonstrate a clean record. From background checks to letters of recommendation, learn how to build a strong case and prepare for future applications. Consult an experienced immigration attorney for personalized guidance.
What is Form 220b, Order of Supervision?
Form 220b, known as the “Order of Supervision,” outlines clear instructions for individuals on when, how, and how often they must report to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This form is issued to non-citizens who have been released from detention, granted release from custody, or deemed low-risk and therefore not detained under the Intensive Supervision Appearance Program (ISAP). It serves as a structured guide for maintaining compliance with ICE requirements.
When Do Small Business Owners Need to Lawyer-up and Why You Need an Attorney too
Starting or running a small business? Hiring an attorney might not be top of mind, but it can save you headaches down the road. From forming your company and drafting contracts to handling employee issues, ensuring proper licensing, and protecting intellectual property, an experienced lawyer can guide you through critical steps. Learn when and why consulting an attorney can benefit your business.
House Passes Immigration Bill – Pathway to Citizenship for Dreamers
The American Dream and Promise Act, passed by the House of Representatives on March 18, 2021, is a major step toward creating a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants in the U.S. This landmark legislation aims to provide permanent protection and opportunities for Dreamers and other undocumented individuals, offering hope for millions seeking legal status.
Pereida v. Barr – The Supreme Court Has Made It Tougher for Undocumented Immigrants
The U.S. Supreme Court has made it more difficult for undocumented immigrants to avoid deportation. In a decision on March 4, 2021, the Court ruled in Pereida v. Barr that undocumented immigrant Clemente Pereida bore the burden of proving his conviction for using a fake Social Security card was not a “crime of moral turpitude.” If this burden is not met, committing a crime of moral turpitude can disqualify immigrants from certain relief options, such as cancellation of removal. This ruling has significant implications for undocumented immigrants seeking to stay in the U.S. and highlights the challenges of navigating immigration laws.
TPS Holders Cannot Adjust Status After Travel Abroad Under DHS Authorized Travel Document.
On August 30, 2020, USCIS implemented a policy change for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders. Under this policy, TPS holders who travel with an authorized DHS travel document retain their TPS upon re-entering the U.S., but this cannot be used to qualify for adjustment to permanent residency. TPS holders should understand these rules before traveling.
Is a Pod Teacher Considered Your Employee?
Can Parents in California Hire Tutors and Teachers Without Violating AB-5?
With the announcement of Governor Newsom’s strict requirements to reopen public schools, many California parents are scrambling for alternatives to traditional in-person learning. Options like homeschooling, hiring nannies, or forming learning pods with private teachers are gaining popularity. However, an important legal question arises: Are tutors and teachers considered employees under California’s AB-5 law?
So What Happened to DACA?
The Obama-era Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program has been through a roller-coaster ride of ups and downs recently. On June 15, 2020, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released a memorandum regarding DACA (“first memorandum”). However, when the Supreme Court released its decision in the lawsuit Trump v. NAACP, No. 18-588 […]
7 Points to Know about USCIS’ New 2020 Fee Requirements
On July 31, 2020, the United States Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS) released the final rule regarding their proposed changes to immigration benefits and their associated fees. While many news agencies have highlighted the increased costs in fees, and many non-profits have highlighted how asylum applicants would have to pay a fee, the actual rule […]
How has Coronavirus affected U.S. immigration?
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a halt in our daily lives, and significant (temporary) changes to the U.S. immigration system. In this article, we have compiled coronavirus related immigration changes by category, or circumstance. However, we do not go into specifics as it would depend on your individual situation and would require our attorneys’ […]
