In the high-stakes world of litigation, the relentless pace often seems intertwined with a “culture of availability” where the expectation of constant connectivity looms over professionals. Litigators frequently report an ability to unplug, yet this respite often comes with the implicit understanding that they remain perpetually prepared to dive back into work at a moment’s…
On September 14, 2026, Representative Darrell Issa (R-CA) introduced the American Copyright Protection Act (ACPA), designated as H.R. 10364, aiming to establish a judicial framework for blocking access to foreign websites engaged in copyright piracy. ([issa.house.gov](https://issa.house.gov/media/press-releases/chairman-issa-introduces-american-copyright-protection-act-combat-online?utm_source=openai)) The proposed legislation would enable U.S.-based copyright holders to petition federal courts for a declaration that a foreign website…
President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the U.S. Department of Justice’s Antitrust Division has advanced to the Senate floor, despite concerns from Democratic senators regarding the potential for political influence over the agency’s traditionally independent enforcement actions. The nominee, whose background includes significant experience in corporate law, has faced scrutiny over his close ties to…
The anticipated wave of patent litigation affecting data centers has arrived, underscoring the complexities that large-scale IT infrastructure operators now face. With the growing reliance on wireless technology for data transmission, data centers are increasingly caught in the crosshairs of legal disputes over intellectual property in this domain. The issues mirror the challenges faced earlier…
In a significant decision within the realm of intellectual property law, U.S. Patent and Trademark Office Director John Squires has overruled a 2024 decision by the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) that invalidated certain claims within an EagleView Technologies patent. This patent was essential to EagleView’s methods for measuring roofs, a vital component in…
The legal world is reflecting on the significant impact of Tom Sager, a transformative figure in legal operations and diversity initiatives, following his recent passing. As the former general counsel of DuPont, Sager was instrumental in reshaping the legal landscape through innovative practices and advocacy for increased diversity within the field. Sager’s tenure at DuPont…
With the prospect of Democrats potentially gaining control of Congress, numerous companies and executives are preparing for possible investigations into their dealings with the Trump administration. Legal experts caution that non-compliance with subpoenas could lead to significant legal risks, including contempt charges by the Justice Department. This situation presents not only legal challenges but also…
In an effort to democratize access to legal education, Rutgers Law School is poised to launch an online Juris Doctor (JD) program for the upcoming academic year. This initiative is designed to cater to a diverse audience seeking more flexible educational options. The school anticipates that this program will particularly benefit working professionals and those…
The legal landscape is experiencing increasing tension as a series of cases are challenging whether racketeering claims, typically geared towards organized crime, can be utilized as a counteroffensive against legal representatives themselves. This evolving strategy involves invoking the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) against opposing counsel in ongoing litigation. Traditionally, RICO has been…
New York City’s recent $130 million settlement with DoorDash marks a significant development in the city’s approach to wage theft enforcement. This substantial settlement, with the largest portion amounting to $83 million, addresses the disagreement over payment for delivery workers’ “on-call time,” or the period Dashers spend online between deliveries searching for and accepting future…
In a legal maneuver that underscores the ongoing tensions between state regulation and digital innovation, New York has initiated a lawsuit against Polymarket, claiming it operates an “illegal gambling operation” through its prediction market platform. This action reflects a broader effort by state authorities to regulate online gambling entities that have largely functioned without oversight….
Easy Live Auction, a prominent online platform, finds itself in a legal skirmish with EasyGroup over trademark issues concerning its brand identity. The dispute centers around the use of abbreviated versions of Easy Live Auction’s name, which EasyGroup claims infringe its trademark rights. However, Easy Live Auction contends that these infringing signs were peripheral to…
Nestlé has announced a significant leadership change in its legal department, with the appointment of its top lawyer from the Americas region as the new Group General Counsel. This transition comes in anticipation of the retirement of the current leader in the role, set to take place next year. The decision underscores Nestlé’s commitment to…
In a significant ruling, the Illinois Supreme Court has determined that Uber cannot mandate arbitration for wrongful death claims stemming from its user agreements. This decision arose from a case involving the widow of a passenger killed in a car accident while using the ride-sharing service. The court unanimously opined, “Arbitration is a matter of…
In a notable shift, attorneys from leading law firms are increasingly transitioning to roles at artificial intelligence firms, often taking on positions that extend beyond traditional legal work. This migration is highlighted in a recent analysis that outlines how AI companies have become attractive avenues for legal professionals seeking to leverage their skills in innovative…
The practice of sponsor-side lawyers designating their counterparts on the lender side in private equity deals has seen significant shifts, moving from a top-down approach to a more collaborative process. This shift reflects a broader trend towards democratization in the negotiation dynamics of private equity transactions. However, despite these changes, underlying ethical issues and potential…
In a notable move, Ogletree Deakins Nash Smoak & Stewart PC has appointed a new general counsel, transitioning from Cooley LLP’s deputy general counsel. This strategic appointment marks a significant step for the labor and employment law firm, as it seeks to bolster its legal leadership with expertise drawn from a prominent player in the…
Ogletree Deakins Nash Smoak & Stewart PC, a prominent labor and employment law firm, has announced a strategic hire that bolsters its leadership team. The firm welcomed a new general counsel, poaching a deputy general counsel from Cooley LLP in New York. This transition marks a significant move for Ogletree as it continues to strengthen…
The Florida Supreme Court recently ordered a public reprimand of a state district court judge due to comments made about shooting attorneys during a courtroom hearing. This decision underscores the judiciary’s continuous efforts to maintain professional decorum and integrity within the legal system. The judge’s remarks, described as “intemperate and caustic,” have raised questions about…
In a significant development for the legal community in Massachusetts, Samuel A. Segal, a personal injury attorney, has taken office as the new president of the Massachusetts Bar Association. Segal, who described himself as a former “subsidized lunch kid,” brings a personal commitment to ensuring access to justice for all. He emphasized his desire to…
Corporate legal departments are undergoing significant transformation, adjusting to the dynamic landscape of the business world. As companies face increased regulatory pressures and technological advancements, the roles and responsibilities of in-house legal teams are evolving to meet new challenges. Traditionally, legal departments primarily focused on risk management and compliance. However, they are now becoming vital…
New Jersey’s Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has imposed a $1.07 million fine on DataOne, a data center operator in Vineland, for installing and operating 62 large natural gas-powered generators without the necessary state permits. This action represents the largest enforcement measure ever taken against a data center in the state. The DEP’s inspection on…
In a recent development in the copyright infringement case against OpenAI and Microsoft, the companies have asserted that Susman Godfrey LLP financed the expert reports critical to the plaintiffs’ arguments. The allegations center on the plaintiffs claiming that OpenAI’s language models, notably ChatGPT, have allegedly infringed on copyright protections by producing work derived from copyrighted…
U.S. District Judge Anna St. John of the Eastern District of Louisiana is advancing toward a seat on the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, as her nomination moves to the full Senate. Her confirmation in March to the district judgeship marked a significant step in her judicial career, and this new development positions her for…
In a keenly observed move, Scott Colom, who was previously nominated for a federal judgeship, is now mounting a Senate campaign against Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith. His candidacy not only highlights his political aspirations but also revives discussions around the controversial “blue slip” practice used by senators to veto judicial nominations. Colom was notably blocked by…