The Supreme Court recently considered the constitutionality of fines imposed on AT&T and Verizon by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), brought about through a challenge questioning the companies’ Seventh Amendment right to a jury trial in such administrative proceedings. This case, FCC v. AT&T, raises significant questions following a previous verdict in SEC v. Jarkesy,…
During recent Supreme Court arguments, justices displayed skepticism towards the claim by telecommunications giants AT&T and Verizon that the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) penalty procedures violate their constitutional rights. Both companies were fined a substantial $104 million for selling users’ real-time location data without consent. They argue that this procedure deprives them of their Seventh…
The U.S. Supreme Court is grappling with a challenge presented by telecommunications giants AT&T and Verizon, which questions the constitutionality of fines imposed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). AT&T and Verizon argue that these penalties, exceeding $100 million collectively, breach their Seventh Amendment right to a jury trial. The crux of the matter centers…
The U.S. Supreme Court recently engaged in a rigorous examination of the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) assertion regarding its authority to impose financial penalties. The FCC defended its decision to levy fines totaling approximately $100 million against telecommunications giants Verizon and AT&T, categorizing these fines as “nonbinding” and arguing that they did not infringe upon…
The U.S. Supreme Court is poised to address significant questions regarding the enforcement powers of two pivotal federal agencies: the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The upcoming term will focus on the SEC’s ability to pursue disgorgement—a legal process where those accused of wrongdoing must return ill-gotten gains—without…
Lumen Technologies’ General Counsel, Clay Bailey, has announced his intention to step down, opting to pursue a new path in ministry. In a move that reflects a significant career shift, Bailey will leave his legal post at the end of this month. His departure marks the culmination of an impactful tenure during which he played…
Apple’s strategic decision to partner with Amazon for satellite connectivity on iPhone and Apple Watch marks a significant shift in its approach to enhancing device capabilities. This collaboration comes years after Apple decided against a proposal from SpaceX’s Starlink, a development that underscores the evolving landscape of satellite services. Amazon’s recent acquisition of Globalstar for…
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 a significant shift within the U.S. Department of Justice’s antitrust division, two prominent litigators have announced their departure following a recent settlement with Ticketmaster. The attorneys, who played a crucial role in overseeing major cases, are leaving as the DOJ continues to grapple with rising concerns about competition in various sectors, including entertainment and…
In an era where executive compensation often draws public scrutiny, the recent financial disclosure from Verizon has captured significant attention. Verizon’s Chief Legal Officer (CLO) saw a noteworthy increase in compensation, surpassing $7.4 million in 2025. This marks a substantial rise from previous years, reflecting broader trends in corporate remuneration strategies. The development parallels a…
In a significant move that underscores the value of legal oversight at major corporations, Verizon Communications Inc. has increased the compensation of its General Counsel, Craig Silliman, by double digits. This compensation boost reflects a broader trend within Fortune 500 companies to competitively remunerate key executives involved in navigating complex regulatory environments. According to Bloomberg…
Amazon is reportedly in advanced discussions to acquire Globalstar, a satellite telecommunications company, in a deal valued at approximately $9 billion. This move aims to bolster Amazon’s efforts to develop its own low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network, positioning it as a competitor to SpaceX’s Starlink service. Globalstar, established in 1991, operates a constellation of LEO…
The European Union has announced an extension of sanctions on Iran, emphasizing human rights violations as the driving force behind its decision. The sanctions, which include travel bans, asset freezes, and export bans on equipment that could facilitate internal repression or monitor telecommunications, will remain in place until April 13, 2027. This latest sanction package…
Courtney B. Kingston, the former Chief Legal Officer at Frontier, is embarking on a new journey as a partner at Day Pitney LLP. After holding significant responsibilities at Frontier, Kingston is enthusiastic about what lies ahead at the law firm. This transition marks a significant step in her career, bringing her expertise in corporate law…
In recent legal developments, Apollo Global Management, BlackRock, Ares, and other significant financial entities have refuted allegations by Optimum Communications. The telecommunications company has accused these financial powerhouses of pressuring the law firm Kirkland & Ellis LLP to step down as their transaction counsel. This maneuver was purportedly in retaliation for a lawsuit concerning supposed…
In a notable legal victory, Xfinity has secured a $4.9 million judgment against an individual and his company accused of impersonating the telecommunications giant. This outcome comes after an intensive legal battle, with allegations that the defendants deceitfully offered customers non-existent services under the guise of being part of Xfinity. The verdict marks a significant…
A pivotal legal victory for T-Mobile remains intact following a decision by a Texas federal judge to uphold a jury verdict clearing the telecommunications giant of patent infringement allegations. These allegations were initially brought forward by a Dallas-based patent holder specializing in wireless communications technologies. The ruling came as the court denied three post-trial motions,…
The U.S. Department of Justice is paying close attention to ongoing antitrust disputes concerning standard essential patents (SEPs), highlighting its commitment to ensure these cases are scrutinized for appropriate market power analysis. A DOJ Antitrust Division official indicated that the agency’s focus is directed towards maintaining a balanced approach where most patent-related lawsuits can avoid…
Fenwick & West LLP, a prominent law firm known for its work with technology and life sciences companies, has announced the expansion of its corporate practice with the addition of Alexander Rea as a partner in its New York office. This strategic move aims to bolster the firm’s capabilities in handling complex transactions, particularly in…
Herbert Smith Freehills’ strategic expansion in the United States continues with the addition of David Pearl as an antitrust partner in their Washington, D.C., office. Pearl, a highly regarded figure in the field, leaves his position at Kramer Levin to join HSF’s burgeoning antitrust practice. His experience encompasses a range of sectors, with notable involvement…
The compensation package for AT&T’s General Counsel saw a notable reduction, decreasing by $1.2 million in 2025. This shift reflects broader trends in corporate governance, where companies are increasingly scrutinizing executive pay in response to shareholder feedback and market conditions. According to recent data, the reduction aligns with AT&T’s ongoing efforts to adjust executive compensation…
In a significant move within the telecommunications industry, Google Fiber, now rebranded as GFiber, is set to be acquired by the private equity firm Stonepeak. This acquisition will see GFiber merge with Astound Broadband, a prominent cable-and-fiber provider, creating a formidable independent player in the Internet service provider sector. This merger marks a notable transition…
In a notable disclosure, Charter Communications’ General Counsel, who holds a pivotal role in the telecommunications giant, earned approximately $5 million in 2025. This compensation package underscores the legal industry’s competitive nature, especially for general counsels in corporations of Charter’s stature. Details about this financial package reflect a trend where general counsels at major companies…
The Federal Circuit recently expressed skepticism about reviving a patent owned by a telecommunications company, following a Texas jury’s decision that Samsung Electronics should pay $81 million for alleged infringement. The patent in question, integral to the operation of 5G wireless networks, was previously invalidated by the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB). During Monday’s…
The National Cable & Telecommunications Association (NCTA), now known as NCTA – The Internet & Television Association, has initiated legal action against the U.S. Copyright Office, challenging a recent rule that alters the calculation of royalties cable operators must pay for retransmitting broadcast television signals. The NCTA contends that this rule mandates the inclusion of…