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BONUS CONTENT: High Court May Limit the Reach of the Wire Fraud Statute: Post-Argument Update
In our recent article, we reviewed the briefing in Kousisis v. United States, O.T. 2024 (No. 23-909), an appeal that considers the viability of the fraudulent inducement theory, under which the government argues that deception to induce a commercial exchange can constitute mail or wire fraud, even if inflicting economic harm on the alleged victim was not the object of the scheme. The defense argued that in the absence of an intent to cause harm to the victim’s property, there could be no wire fraud.
On Dec. 9, 2024, the Supreme Court heard oral argument on the case. The Court appeared divided on the issue. Several justices appeared to share the views of Petitioners, emphasizing concerns about federalism and broad prosecutorial discretion — concerns repeatedly expressed by the Court in the context of interpreting other broadly-worded federal criminal statutes.
Justice Alito directed the government to such cases, including Ciminelli v. United States, 598 U.S. 306, 310 (2023) and Kelly v. United States, 590 U.S. 391 (2020), noting that “what they really stand for is that the Court really doesn’t like the federalization of white-collar prosecutions and wants that to be done in state court and is really hostile to this whole enterprise.” Chief Justice Roberts similarly flagged that “a lot of these things could be dealt with under state law, [] you don’t have to federalize every jot and tittle in a [] large contract,” noting that “the federalization of something as simple as nuances of contract law” is a “matter of concern that [the Court] expressed in many precedents.” While this premise seemed implicit in a long line of recent decisions, it was still surprising to hear the Court so openly discuss the broad question of whether white-collar crime should be the subject of the federal criminal law.
Bonus Content: How Emerging Technologies Are Impacting IP: A Chat With Legalweek Speaker Ryan Phelan
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.