Monster Beverage Corporation has initiated a legal battle against companies importing foreign versions of its energy drinks into the United States. This move was revealed in a filing with the International Trade Commission (ITC), where Monster claims these imports are infringing on its trademarks. The energy drinks in question are labeled for overseas markets, yet…
In a significant decision last week, U.S. Patent and Trademark Office Director John Squires reaffirmed his stance on the intersection of intellectual property rights and international trade. Squires rejected Sinclair Pharma Ltd.’s petition to reopen its challenge against a patent held by Hydrafacial LLC concerning skin treatment methods. The denial comes after Squires initially terminated…
The “stream of commerce” theory has long been a contentious issue within U.S. personal jurisdiction law, yet the Supreme Court has consistently skirted around providing a definitive interpretation. This doctrine, impacting how foreign manufacturers can be sued in U.S. courts, remains unresolved, leaving lower courts to grapple with inconsistent applications and increasing legal uncertainties. Legal…
The U.S. government has launched a new online portal to facilitate the refund process for tariffs deemed illegal by the Supreme Court, marking a significant development in the ongoing dialogue surrounding trade policies enacted during the Trump administration. This move comes two months after the Court ruled that President Trump improperly imposed tariffs under the…
The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) has given Apple the green light to import its redesigned Apple Watch, as it no longer infringes patents held by Masimo Corp. This decision marks the conclusion of a protracted legal battle that began when an import ban was imposed on certain Apple Watch models in 2023 due to…
In the ongoing legal contest between semiconductor giants, Everspin Technologies Inc. has implored the U.S. International Trade Commission to dismiss a patent infringement case initiated by Avalanche Technology Inc. The crux of Everspin’s argument lies in the claim that Avalanche’s patents are inadmissible due to years of improperly availing “small entity” fee discounts that were…
In January 2026, Prime Minister Mark Carney’s official visit to Beijing marked a significant shift in Canada-China relations, culminating in the announcement of a new strategic partnership. This development has already begun to influence Canada’s legal sector, with major law firms such as Dentons, Fasken, and McMillan reporting increased demand for legal services. This uptick…
A U.S. medical device company recently faced a ruling by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), which upheld a ban on its redesigned intravenous (IV) drip products. The company attempted to re-enter the market after modifying its devices, initially considered patent-infringing. However, CBP remains unconvinced that the changes sufficiently address these legal concerns, stating that…
Foley Hoag LLP, a prominent law firm, has expanded its capabilities by hiring the former U.S. ambassador to Hungary as a partner in its New York office. This strategic move was announced on Wednesday and is expected to enhance the firm’s expertise in international relations and diplomatic affairs, particularly within the Central and Eastern European…
The Biden administration’s policy initiatives on tariffs and the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) push have sparked a surge in lobbying activities among corporate and legal sectors. Legal professionals and corporate lobbyists are navigating complex shifts as the agenda sets the stage for potentially significant regulatory changes. The administration’s renewed focus on tariffs is raising…
Howmet Aerospace, a company specializing in engineered metal products, has announced the appointment of Heather H. Wilson, former chief counsel at Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII), as its new legal chief. Wilson, who brings a wealth of experience from her tenure at HII, now assumes the role of Executive Vice President, General Counsel, and Secretary. This…
The legal landscape in 2026 continues to evolve as the latest Am Law 100 rankings indicate shifts in the hierarchy of top-grossing law firms. Seven of the top 10 firms maintained their positions despite some reordering, reflecting both stability and strategic maneuvering among the legal elite. This year’s list highlights both consistency and adaptation as…
The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) has initiated an investigation concerning Joby Aviation, a prominent player in the evolving electric air taxi industry. This inquiry seeks to determine whether Joby Aviation’s imported materials infringe on the patents held by a rival company, highlighting a critical legal battle in the realm of aviation innovation. Joby Aviation,…
On Monday, the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) announced that it will investigate whether imported over-the-counter lidocaine patches sold by five companies infringe upon a U.S. patent. This investigation could potentially lead to exclusion orders preventing these products from entering the U.S. market, a significant move within the realm of international trade and patent law….
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…