In a recent development that has caught the legal community’s attention, a New York judge has issued a ruling concerning the actions of Chicago-based attorneys attempting to influence a subpoena directed at a dispensary executive. The case highlights the intricacies of legal proceedings and the responsibilities of legal representatives in ensuring compliance with judicial directives….
As the midterm elections approach, significant discussions are taking place regarding the investigative directions a potentially Democratic-controlled Congress might pursue. These priorities are crystallizing and present important considerations for corporations across various sectors. The stakes are high, as new legislative oversight could significantly affect industries reliant on specific regulatory frameworks. One area likely to see…
Hecate Energy LLC, recognized for its role as a utility-scale energy park developer, has announced the appointment of a seasoned legal expert as its new general counsel. This strategic move, revealed in a recent announcement, marks a significant addition to the company’s leadership team. The new general counsel is tasked with navigating the complexities of…
In the evolving landscape of corporate legal functions, professionals engaged in legal operations are making notable strides toward establishing the legitimacy and significance of their roles. Legal operations provide the critical infrastructure that allows legal departments to manage workflows, budgets, vendors, and data analytics effectively. The demand for credentialing in this area is on the…
Carpenter Technology Corporation, a prominent player in the specialty alloy manufacturing industry based in Philadelphia, is undergoing a significant change in its legal leadership. The company’s top in-house attorney, who has served as General Counsel, recently announced plans to retire by the end of the year. This transition marks a notable shift for Carpenter Technology…
PepsiCo Inc. is undergoing a significant transition as its long-serving Chief Corporate Affairs Officer retires, prompting the company’s General Counsel, David Flavell, to expand his responsibilities. This shift comes as PepsiCo aims to integrate its legal and corporate affairs functions more closely, signaling a strategic move to streamline operations and ensure cohesive leadership. The transition…
Figma’s General Counsel, Brendan Mulligan, is spearheading efforts to build a more technically proficient legal team to enhance operational efficiency. By focusing on optimizing legal operations, Mulligan aims to leverage Figma’s web-design software for integrating advanced tools and processes, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness within the legal department. He believes that bridging the gap between tech…
The recent appointment of Katie Zacharia as White House Press Secretary has ignited scrutiny over her professional credentials, particularly her assertions of being a licensed attorney. On October 14, 2026, the Campaign for Accountability, a nonprofit watchdog organization, filed a formal complaint with the State Bar of California, urging an investigation into whether Zacharia has…
Jennie Morawetz, the newly appointed CEO of SCOREalytics, has articulated a vision for the regulatory intelligence company to become a crucial part of lawyers’ due diligence processes. Morawetz aims to position SCOREalytics as the go-to tool for general counsels and law firms to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of regulatory changes. Transitioning into the CEO role…
BCB Bancorp Inc, a community-focused financial institution headquartered in New Jersey, has appointed a seasoned finance professional to take on the role of Chief Legal Officer. This strategic move is part of the company’s ongoing efforts to bolster its legal and compliance framework. The new CLO previously served as general counsel for Dime Community Bancshares…
A prominent legal professional, who formerly served as deputy general counsel for technology giants PayPal and eBay, has taken on a new role at Reliable Robotics. She will lead as the top in-house attorney, bringing her extensive experience to the autonomous aircraft system developer. This move reflects a growing trend where tech veterans transition to…
In the realm of corporate law, few positions wield as much influence as that of a General Counsel at a major corporation. Vanessa Sutherland, the General Counsel at Phillips 66, exemplifies this influence through her strategic vision and leadership. Renowned for her innovative approach, Sutherland plays a pivotal role in steering the company through legal…
The Association of Corporate Counsel’s (ACC) Annual Conference recently concluded, bringing together a diverse array of legal professionals and highlighting key industry trends that will shape the future of in-house legal departments. The event underscored the essential role of technology, particularly artificial intelligence, in transforming legal practices. Artificial Intelligence at the Forefront The conference showcased…
The BGC Group, a prominent player in the financial services sector and a Cantor Fitzgerald spinoff, recently disclosed an intriguing development regarding the compensation of its general counsel. In 2025, the general counsel was awarded $250,000 more than in the previous year, largely due to a significant incentive plan bonus. This increase marks a notable…
Mary Fossier, a former associate general counsel at The Walt Disney Company, has initiated legal proceedings against her former employer, alleging age discrimination and wrongful termination. Fossier, who dedicated nearly three decades to Disney, claims she was dismissed in late 2024 to make way for a younger, less experienced colleague. The lawsuit, filed in Los…
The planned merger between Roku and Fox Corp. is garnering attention not only for its potential impact on the media landscape but also for the financial incentives tied to key players within Roku. According to documents submitted to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, Roku’s General Counsel could stand to receive a bonus of up…
John Duffy, recently appointed as the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office general counsel and acting solicitor, addressed a gathering of patent professionals in San Francisco, advocating for a more hands-off approach by the government in the realm of intellectual property. Duffy emphasized that the economic utilization of patent rights should primarily be the responsibility of…
As legal landscapes continue to evolve, the role of a general counsel is expanding beyond traditional boundaries. Del Monte Foods’ General Counsel, Bernadette Silva, embodies this transformation by adopting a proactive legal approach. Her role hinges on foresight and adaptability, akin to a modern-day goalkeeper, defending the company’s interests while navigating the intricate legal challenges…
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Inc.’s outgoing general counsel made headlines with earnings totaling $1.7 million in the fiscal year 2026. This figure was disclosed following a recent securities filing detailing the compensation received prior to his departure on May 1. The general counsel’s compensation package included salary, bonus, and other financial incentives. It highlights…
The integration of artificial intelligence in corporate legal departments is accelerating as a means to enhance efficiency and manage expanding workloads. This trend is evident in recent moves by corporate counsel leaders who view AI as a strategic tool to bolster their teams’ capabilities and resources. A leader in this shift is Sandra R. Phillips,…
Angel S. Willis, who has effectively guided Kraft Heinz Co. as its global general counsel and corporate affairs officer for the past two years, is poised to step down from her role later this month. During her tenure, Willis played a pivotal role in navigating the complexities of legal affairs within the global food industry,…
John F. Duffy, a respected professor at the University of Virginia School of Law, has assumed the position of general counsel and acting solicitor at the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). This appointment marks a significant transition as Duffy, known for his expertise in patent law, takes on a pivotal role in shaping…
The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) recently announced the appointment of John F. Duffy, a distinguished professor from the University of Virginia School of Law, as its new general counsel and acting solicitor. This appointment places Duffy in a pivotal role within the agency responsible for managing and overseeing the nation’s patent and trademark…
On October 6, 2026, John F. Duffy from the University of Virginia School of Law joined the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) as its general counsel and acting solicitor. This significant appointment places Duffy—a noted expert in intellectual property law—at the forefront of legal oversight at the federal agency responsible for patents and trademarks….
In September, notable stock transactions by general counsels captured attention, particularly within major corporations such as United Therapeutics and Apple. Chief among these was United Therapeutics’ general counsel, Paul Mahon, who executed a significant stock sale amounting to $8.1 million. This transaction highlights the financial strategies some top executives are employing amidst fluctuating market conditions….