A notable player in the pickleball industry has taken legal action against nine competitors, accusing them of patent infringement linked to the design and technology of pickleball paddles. These lawsuits have been filed across five different federal district courts and follow an action with the U.S. International Trade Commission aimed at halting the importation of…
Amidst growing concerns over national security, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has unveiled a new draft proposal aimed at tightening regulations around electronic device testing. This move specifically targets ‘bad labs’, particularly those operating in countries without reciprocal testing agreements with the United States. The proposal seeks to limit the involvement of foreign entities that…
In the competitive landscape of apparel and fashion, the importance of trademark considerations at the outset of brand development cannot be overstated. For new entrants and established players alike, ensuring robust trademark protection is crucial to safeguard brand identity and minimize risks associated with infringement claims. From the moment a new fashion line is conceived,…
In a recent development, the manufacturer behind Welch’s Fruit Snacks has initiated proceedings at the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) against Cibo Vita, accusing the firm of patent infringement concerning its yogurt-covered snacks. The case highlights ongoing tensions in the competitive fruit snack market, as companies strive to protect their innovations in packaging and product…
The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) has commenced an investigation following allegations from Belkin that a competitor is importing and distributing screen protectors that infringe on three of its patents. This move underscores the growing focus on intellectual property rights within the consumer electronics accessories market. Belkin, a prominent player in the accessory sector, claims…
Iran has announced a novel requirement for shipping companies navigating the critical Strait of Hormuz: tolls must be paid in cryptocurrency for passage of oil tankers. This move aligns with Iran’s efforts to exert control over the vital maritime route during a temporary two-week ceasefire. Hamid Hosseini, a spokesperson for Iran’s Oil, Gas and Petrochemical…
The juridification of voluntary sustainability standards within EU trade agreements and related supply-chain regimes reflects a growing trend towards embedding environmental and social criteria in international trade frameworks. This transformation is taking place as the European Union increasingly integrates these standards within the legal texts of trade agreements, effectively elevating them from voluntary guidelines to…
In a significant move within the rapidly growing sport of pickleball, a Maryland-based manufacturer has raised allegations against major competitors like Adidas and Franklin, claiming they have infringed on its patents. The complaint was filed with the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC), aiming to halt the importation of paddles that allegedly violate two specific patents…
Holland & Knight, a prominent law firm known for its expertise in government affairs, has strengthened its policy practice by appointing ex-National Australia Bank (NAB) Vice President Mark Donaldson. This strategic hiring underscores the firm’s commitment to enhancing its capabilities in navigating complex regulatory environments. Donaldson brings a wealth of experience from his tenure at…
The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) has decided not to suspend its ban on the import and sales of products from cannabis vape company Stiiizy while the firm pursues an appeal. This decision comes amid a legal battle with rival Pax Labs, which centers on alleged patent infringement. The ITC’s ruling is a significant development…
In a decision issued on April 6, 2026, the Federal Circuit upheld the U.S. International Trade Commission’s (ITC) decision to deny an import ban on boat air conditioners. This ruling came in response to an appeal from a Swedish manufacturer seeking to restrict these imports, alleging patent infringement by competitors. The court found that the…
In the corporate legal landscape, compensation packages are often reflective of an individual’s strategic importance and impact on a company’s success. Recently, it was reported that CBRE’s Chief Legal Officer, Laurence Midler, saw his total compensation for 2025 rise to $4.46 million, underscoring the critical role of in-house legal professionals within major corporations. This figure…
The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) has launched an investigation against Hisense and Roku concerning alleged patent infringements. These companies are accused of importing televisions and streaming devices that violate six patents licensed by LG from another entity. The complaint, led by the patent licensing firm, claims that these imports infringe on intellectual property rights,…
Dechert LLP has announced the appointment of William Reaves as the new co-chair of its National Security Practice in Washington, D.C. This strategic move aligns with Dechert’s commitment to strengthening its national security capabilities amidst an increasingly complex regulatory environment. Reaves, previously serving as a senior attorney within the Department of Justice, brings a wealth…
Baker McKenzie has announced the addition of former Deputy U.S. Trade Representative, C.J. Mahoney, to its roster as a trade partner. Mahoney, who brings a wealth of experience in global trade negotiations, will enhance the firm’s capacity to handle complex trade matters. The appointment highlights the firm’s strategic commitment to bolstering its trade practice amid…
In recent developments, companies evaluating the opportunities and risks associated with tariff refunds may need to adjust their calculations due to several emerging factors. The changing landscape is driven by a convergence of policy shifts, trade tensions, and legal interpretations, all of which could have significant implications for businesses engaged in international trade. The complexities…
The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) recently initiated an investigation into claims by InterDigital against Chinese television manufacturers Hisense Co. Ltd. and TCL Technology Group Corp. The complaint alleges that these companies are importing televisions into the United States that infringe on InterDigital’s video coding patents. This marks a continuation of InterDigital’s ongoing legal battles…
The United States has launched a new tariff refund portal, designed to streamline the process for businesses seeking refunds on duties paid on imported goods. However, the initial rollout will exclude about one-third of imports, presenting challenges for some companies relying on these exemptions (Bloomberg Law). The portal is part of a broader effort to…
Holland & Knight has made a significant addition to its international trade practice with the hiring of Lewis Mitchell, previously a counsel at Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP. Mitchell, known for his expertise in regulatory issues, will enhance Holland & Knight’s offerings in the evolving landscape of global trade compliance and policy. Mitchell’s…
The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) has initiated an investigation regarding allegations by an Arizona-based solar company. The company accuses nearly 50 entities of importing solar cells into the United States that allegedly infringe on one of its patents. This inquiry is set to scrutinize the claims, potentially impacting a significant segment of the solar…
In a recent development, Hydrafacial, known for its skincare innovations, has urged the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) Director, John Squires, to reject a rehearing request by competitor Sinclair Pharma. The debate centers on Director Squires’ decision to de-institute a Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) challenge against Hydrafacial’s patent. The skincare company contends…
BMW is currently under investigation by the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) regarding allegations of trade secret misappropriation involving its infotainment screens. This scrutiny arises from claims by a California-based technology company that BMW illicitly used proprietary information to create a more cost-effective version of these advanced electronic interfaces, which are crucial for modern vehicle…
The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) has launched an investigation into allegations that certain memory chips imported into the United States by companies from Japan and South Korea may be infringing on eight patents held by a technology firm based in Texas. This investigation follows a formal request from the Texas firm, seeking enforcement of…
In recent legal developments, a noticeable increase in litigation is emerging around AI-powered product recommendation tools within the beauty industry. Companies are facing allegations related to privacy and bias issues inherent in these AI applications. This surge in legal challenges underscores the broader implications of deploying artificial intelligence in consumer-facing roles, where personalization algorithms might…
In a pivotal development, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit upheld a U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) exclusion order against Apple, keeping the spotlight on the evolving landscape of domestic industry requirements in patent disputes. This recent decision, centered around the Apple Watch’s patent conflict with Masimo Corporation, has once again lowered…