The National Opioid Epidemic: The Emergence of a Multi-Layered Approach
February 01, 2018
On Oct. 26, 2017, Eric D. Hargan, Acting Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, announced that, as a result of the opioid epidemic, “a public health emergency exists nationwide.” As a result, counties, states and the federal government have mounted an attack on the pharmaceutical industry.
Recovering Administrative Claims in Chapter 9 Bankruptcy and Title III of PROMESA
February 01, 2018
Municipal bankruptcies under Chapter 9 of the Bankruptcy Code are rare. These cases are often filed to adjust bonded indebtedness and pension obligations. Congressional authorization for Puerto Rico and its instrumentalities to file for bankruptcy under the Puerto Rico Oversight, Management, and Economic Stability Act (PROMESA) was similarly out of concern for excessive bond debt and pensions.
Five Ways to Eliminate the Need for a Corporate Monitor
February 01, 2018
Government-imposed corporate monitors — once a rare occurrence in the U.S. — are now commonplace, not only with domestic regulators, but also with regulatory agencies in various other countries, in connection with enforcement proceedings and prosecutions for criminal offenses such as anti-corruption violations and other misconduct.
Regulating Interior Landmarks
February 01, 2018
What powers does the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) have to require a building owner to maintain a mechanical clock located in the interior of a building? In <i>Save America's Clocks, Inc. v. City of New York</i>, that issue generated a 3-2 division in the First Department, with the majority holding that the Commission had power to require maintenance of the clock, and to require public access to it.
More Developments in NFL Concussion Litigation
February 01, 2018
Several leading law firms in the National Football League concussion settlement litigation are taking issue with an expert report that suggested slashing attorney fee recoveries. More than 10 law firms have filed responses to a December expert report that recommended capping attorney fees.
Professional Development: The Quest for Work-Life Balance
February 01, 2018
<b><i>Designing Your Week</b></i><p>More than ever before, law firms are recognizing the importance of work-life balance for their employees, offering benefits such as flexible work schedules and working remotely. The acknowledgement itself is important, but unfortunately, it does not guarantee the balance we hope to achieve, especially for younger marketing and business development professionals looking to advance in their careers.
Trademark Board's Precedential Ruling on Use in Commerce
February 01, 2018
In a nearly 50-page precedential opinion in a ruling of great significance to the entertainment industry, a TTAB panel of judges recently underscored the need to prove actual use in commerce in order to register a trademark, regardless of how low the standard for use under the Lanham Act has recently become.