Resources

In a sweeping 84-page complaint, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)—joined by seven state attorneys general—has filed suit against Live Nation Entertainment and Ticketmaster, alleging a years-long scheme of deceptive ticketing practices that cost consumers billions. The FTC is seeking civil penalties and monetary relief, alleging violations of the FTC Act and the Better Online Ticket Sales Act. The case is pending in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California.

A recent decision from the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit confirms public employers can consider certain employee speech on social media in making personnel decisions.

A recent decision from the Canadian Federal Court of Appeal (FCA) underscores the importance of implementing multi-layered patent docketing systems to prevent the loss of rights due to unpaid maintenance fees. This issue is especially critical for multinational companies or organizations managing global IP portfolios, where varying rules and requirements increase the risk of miscommunication that could lead to the unintended expiration of valuable IP rights.

On September 19, 2025, President Trump signed an Executive Order restricting the entry of anyone seeking to enter or reenter the U.S. in H-1B status without payment of a new $100,000 fee. This proclamation takes effect at 12:01 am on Sunday, September 21, 2025, will expire after one year, and may be extended. All H-1B workers who are currently abroad are advised to return to the U.S. as soon as possible before the effective date.

Ferrara Candy Company, the powerhouse behind NERDS®, is cracking down on what it calls a “copycat candy” in a newly filed federal lawsuit that’s making waves in the confectionery world. Filed in the Central District of California, the suit targets American Continental Limited, American Fizz (UK) Limited, LD Distribution Services, and several individuals for allegedly hijacking Ferrara’s legacy DWEEBS brand to sell candy that looks suspiciously like NERDS.

The Federal Circuit’s recent decision in Global Health Solutions LLC v. Selner is its first review of a rare patent dispute resolution process under the America Invents Act (AIA). The decision serves as a warning that proving misappropriation of an invention is costly, evidence-heavy, and far from guaranteed. For inventors and companies working with partners, customers, and other third parties, Selner underscores the need for airtight documentation and filing patent applications before discussions with third parties.

Michigan may be joining a growing number of states in tightening regulations around automatic renewal provisions in consumer contracts. On August 27, 2025, the Michigan House introduced HB 4826, a bill aimed at strengthening consumer protection by requiring clear disclosure of automatic renewal provisions in consumer contracts. If enacted the law would apply to any contract for the sale or lease of a service or good to a consumer that includes an automatic renewal provision, meaning the consumer contract is renewed for a period of more than one month unless notice is given.

Beginning in October 2025, the European Patent Office (EPO) will accept patent drawings in color or grayscale when filed electronically. By allowing more detailed and visually accurate representations, this change enhances clarity in technical disclosures and could streamline the examination process. This change could also serve as a model for other jurisdictions such as the United States, Canada, and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).

Recent U.S. trade secret verdicts have demonstrated the extraordinary financial exposure companies face under the Defend Trade Secrets Act. Courts have awarded hundreds of millions in damages for misappropriation of proprietary information. These awards often include exemplary damages for willful misconduct and attorney’s fees, making the stakes even higher.

On August 7, 2025, President Trump signed an Executive Order titled “Democratizing Access to Alternative Assets for 401(k) Investors.”  This Executive Order has the potential to significantly change how retirement savings assets in employer-sponsored defined contribution plans, such as 401(k) plans, can be invested.