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Movers & Shakers
Illinois ABA Franchise Committee Launched
On March 12, the Illinois State Bar Standing Committee on Franchising and Distribution law held its inaugural meeting, joining the ranks of state bars in other franchise registration states that have dedicated franchise committees.
Credit for launching the committee goes to Joseph Sheyka (DLA Piper, Chicago) and John R.F. Baer (Sonnenschein, Nath & Rosenthal, Chicago). The committee anticipates sharing ideas with Illinois franchise regulators while the regulators consider modifications to the Illinois Franchise Disclosure Act in time for the new federal Franchise Rule to become effective on July 1, 2008.
Members of the committee as it prepared for its first meeting were, in addition to Sheyka and Baer: Sandra Wall, vice chair, and counsel at McDonald's Corp.; Fredric Cohen (Cheng Cohen, Chicago); Richard Krubeck (Snap-On Intl.); Susan Meyer (Schwartz Cooper Chartered, Chicago); Paula Morency (Schiff Harden, Chicago); Thomas Williams III (Robert Bosch LLC, Hoffman Estates); and Joan Zwitt (BP America, Inc.).
Plave Koch Adds Four Attorneys
Fast-growing franchise law firm Plave Koch LLC (Reston, VA) added four attorneys in late January. Joining the firm are Leslie Curran, Marisa Faunce, Jim Rubinger, and J.H. Snow III. Curran and Faunce will work on transactional issues (and Faunce also will work on trademark matters); Rubinger will be in the firm's litigation team; and Snow will focus on international franchising.
Illinois ABA Franchise Committee Launched
On March 12, the Illinois State Bar Standing Committee on Franchising and Distribution law held its inaugural meeting, joining the ranks of state bars in other franchise registration states that have dedicated franchise committees.
Credit for launching the committee goes to Joseph Sheyka (
Members of the committee as it prepared for its first meeting were, in addition to Sheyka and Baer: Sandra Wall, vice chair, and counsel at
Plave Koch Adds Four Attorneys
Fast-growing franchise law firm Plave Koch LLC (Reston, VA) added four attorneys in late January. Joining the firm are Leslie Curran, Marisa Faunce, Jim Rubinger, and J.H. Snow III. Curran and Faunce will work on transactional issues (and Faunce also will work on trademark matters); Rubinger will be in the firm's litigation team; and Snow will focus on international franchising.
Bonus Content: How Emerging Technologies Are Impacting IP: A Chat With Legalweek Speaker Ryan Phelan
In advance of Legalweek '25, a Q&A with conference speaker Ryan Phelan, a partner at Marshall, Gerstein & Borun and founder and moderator of legal blog PatentNext, to discuss how courts and jurisdictions are handling novel technologies, the copyrightability of AI-assisted art, and more.
Overview of Regulatory Guidance Governing the Use of AI Systems In the Workplace
Businesses have long embraced the use of computer technology in the workplace as a means of improving efficiency and productivity of their operations. In recent years, businesses have incorporated artificial intelligence and other automated and algorithmic technologies into their computer systems. This article provides an overview of the federal regulatory guidance and the state and local rules in place so far and suggests ways in which employers may wish to address these developments with policies and practices to reduce legal risk.
Is Google Search Dead? How AI Is Reshaping Search and SEO
This two-part article dives into the massive shifts AI is bringing to Google Search and SEO and why traditional searches are no longer part of the solution for marketers. It’s not theoretical, it’s happening, and firms that adapt will come out ahead.
While Federal Legislation Flounders, State Privacy Laws for Children and Teens Gain Momentum
For decades, the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act has been the only law to expressly address privacy for minors’ information other than student data. In the absence of more robust federal requirements, states are stepping in to regulate not only the processing of all minors’ data, but also online platforms used by teens and children.
Revolutionizing Workplace Design: A Perspective from Gray Reed
In an era where the workplace is constantly evolving, law firms face unique challenges and opportunities in facilities management, real estate, and design. Across the industry, firms are reevaluating their office spaces to adapt to hybrid work models, prioritize collaboration, and enhance employee experience. Trends such as flexible seating, technology-driven planning, and the creation of multifunctional spaces are shaping the future of law firm offices.