Federal Circuit Again Addresses Patent-Eligibility Of Internet-Centric Claims
December 31, 2014
On Dec. 5, 2014, a divided Federal Circuit panel held that claims directed to systems and methods of generating a composite Web page combining certain visual elements of a "host" website with content of a third-party merchant were patent-eligible. However, the patent-eligibility of Internet-centric claims remains unsettled.
Making Your Net Work
December 31, 2014
Skilled social media navigators frequently brag about all the people they are "networked in" with ' scores, hundreds or even thousands of LinkedIn connections, Twitter followers or Facebook friends. But once you get it in reach, what happens then?
Why the Rise of Ascertainability Signals the Fall of 'All Natural' Consumer Class Actions
December 31, 2014
The filing of a consumer class action and the widespread publicity such a lawsuit draws often has an immediate adverse impact on the product, its brand, and its manufacturer. Taking control of these class actions early, containing them through appropriate corporate messaging, and ending them quickly at the class certification stage is therefore imperative, particularly in the food and beverage industry.
NJ & CT News
December 31, 2014
A look at what's happening in neighboring states.
Eminent Domain Law
December 31, 2014
A case in which there were no consequential damages for taking of temporary easement.
The Financial Impact Of IP Issues in M&A
December 31, 2014
Buyers often fail to consider the financial impact of intellectual property rights in M&A deals. While IP value can be difficult to determine, a target company's financials may rely on IP. For example, a company's financial outlook may be due to patent protection that provides exclusivity and prevents competitors from entering certain markets. It also may be due to goodwill associated with trademark protection, allowing a brand to charge a profitable premium over the competition.
Business As Usual Despite Republican Control of Congress?
December 31, 2014
The midterm elections returned the Republicans to control of the Senate after an eight-year hiatus. Not surprisingly, the Republicans were elected on platforms opposing President Obama's policies. The surprise may be that the Democratic agenda may continue to prevail.
The Case for the GC
December 31, 2014
In a time of increasing regulatory risk, global complexity and shareholder activism, the role of the corporate general counsel in the boardroom has never been more important. Yet, companies have been slow to recruit general counsels or seasoned attorneys to serve as independent directors.
Note from Your Editor
December 31, 2014
As our world continues to "dance as fast as it can," legal marketers around the globe continue to struggle with educating their lawyers in the ways of the "new normal."
