In recent weeks, 3M Co. and the U.S. Department of Justice have been at odds regarding 3M’s desire to buy the office-products division of Avery Dennison Corporation.  News reports claim that 3M is working to address concerns of the DOJ regarding the $550 million acquisition.  Antitrust concerns are the big issue; early in September, the Justice Department threatened to block the deal by filing a lawsuit.

The Department of Justice’ concern was that the merger would mean 3M company owned 80% of the U.S. markets in sticky notes and labels.  3M, maker of well-known Post-it notes, continues to work toward acquiring the office products division, although the DOJ announced on September 4 that 3M had dropped its plan; this was not so, according to 3M.

In a statement made on September 5, 3M said both companies (3M and Avery Dennison) believed the transaction could benefit both consumers and customers.  The companies were working in unison to obtain regulatory approval, address the DOJ’s concerns, and ultimately complete the transaction.

Originally, the acquisition was announced in January and expected to close following regulatory approvals in the second half of 2012.  On September 19, news reports revealed that 3M was continuing to address objections.  3M CFO David Meline informed investors that “We have a contract that remains in place at the present time and we are reviewing the situation.”

Chief Executive Officer at 3M, Inge Thulin, took his position at the company in February of this year.  According to Thulin, under his tenure 3M would approach acquisitions differently than in the past, stating that “fewer, but slightly bigger” acquisitions would be the goal of the company.

As experienced Los Angeles mergers and acquisitions attorneys, we understand the obstacles companies and corporations face today as well as the strategies typically used in these transactions.  Let the senior-level attorneys at the Law Offices of Spotora & Associates assist you with your M & A deal, whether you need guidance in equity financing, regulatory filings, corporate governance or other areas related to mergers and acquisitions.

Actor Michael Madsen, best known for his roles in the movies “Kill Bill” and “Reservoir Dogs,” was arrested on Wednesday on suspicion of drunk driving on Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu. Madsen was reportedly driving a red Pontiac GTO when he was pulled over for driving erratically. According to Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department spokesman Steve Whitmore, Madsen’s blood alcohol level was 0.21, which is more than double the legal limit of 0.08.

The actor was admitted to a local hospital following his arrest after complaining of an undisclosed medical problem. Madsen’s attorney, Perry Wander, said that he has been released and that the results of the sobriety test may have been faulty because of prescription drugs his client had been taking. Wander believes that the medication could have caused Madsen’s erratic driving, giving the impression he was under the influence.

Madsen has had his share of problems with alcohol abuse according to news reports. Over the last several years, he has been in and out of rehabilitation centers; Wander stated that Madsen’s nemesis is white wine, and that his battle is ongoing. Wander suggested that perhaps this most recent experience will motivate Madsen to get the help he needs. Prior to being hospitalized he was booked at the Lost Hills-Malibu Station. His car was impounded, and bail set at $15,000.

Just this past March, Madsen allegedly became involved in a drunken fight with his teenage son and was arrested at his home in Malibu. However, due to the lack of evidence prosecutors did not file charges.

While we do not condone drunk driving or driving under the influence of any substance that may impair judgment or an individual’s ability to drive, we also understand the harshness of penalties handed out to those convicted for driving under the influence. The old adage “if you can’t do the time, don’t do the crime” is a bit ironic in the case of DUI, as the “time” or punishment often seems far too severe in comparison to the offense an individual is accused of committing.

Anyone arrested for driving under the influence needs capable and aggressive legal guidance and representation. At the Law Offices of Spotora & Associates we provide clients with a level of experience, skill and dedication essential to a positive outcome. Let us help get the charges against you reduced or dismissed!

While it’s unfortunate, business litigation has become very common place in corporate America today, no place more so than the Los Angeles area. Experienced Los Angeles business litigation attorneys realize that this area of the law goes far beyond companies filing lawsuits and going to court over business disputes. Whether it’s to protect your business ideas, company interests or intellectual property, there are many reasons companies and corporations obtain the services and guidance of a skilled business litigation lawyer in Los Angeles.

Today, there are companies and corporations both small and large which need an aggressive attorney to protect the very livelihood of their businesses. Perhaps you are in a dispute with a business partner, or feel that a vendor has breached your contract. False advertising, trademark infringement, fraud, protection of your intellectual property – there are so many reasons that businesses hire capable Los Angeles business litigation lawyers – and in city such as Los Angeles where creativity and enterprise flow so freely, it is doubly important that every aspect of your business is protected.

As a business owner, you and your business associates, employees and others essential to the success of your business should be able to focus on building your company’s success, brand and the promotion of your products/services. Spending time trying to protect what is rightfully yours or keeping your business afloat is simply a waste of precious time and effort. Legal issues and business disputes can ultimately lead to the destruction of your company, regardless of its size. This is why it is of paramount importance that you seek the guidance of business litigation lawyers in Los Angeles who give your business the personal attention you deserve, one with a winning track record.

Los Angeles is a city where entertainment, fun and possibilities abound, whether you’re a creative or artistic sort, a writer, film producer or the CEO of a manufacturing company. When you have questions or concerns that could affect the success or reputation of your company, consult with the Los Angeles business litigation attorneys at the Law Offices of Spotora & Associates. Our experience, level of skill and aggressive, dedicated approach make our team the right one for you.