News Type: Publications

Elizabeth Tosaris has authored another terrific article—this one featured in the Insurance Journal. In her piece, Elizabeth delves into the transformative role of big data in the insurance industry, highlighting how AI and innovative methodologies are reshaping the property and casualty business. She also explores the regulatory complexities that tech brings to the table and the delicate balance between transparency and confidentiality that rating organizations must navigate.

IP Watchdog has published an insightful article by Jennifer Mauri and Aaron Plesset titled “Biggest AI Developments of 2024 So Far and What’s Ahead,” exploring critical issues like generative AI and copyright challenges, licensing innovations, and the latest trends in AI patents. Jennifer and Aaron explain how AI is transforming intellectual property law, from the debate over copyrighting AI-generated content to groundbreaking cases like the New York Times lawsuit against OpenAI.

Prachi Ajmera’s latest article for Law360, “Legal Battles Show Brands’ Dilemma in Luxury Resale Trend,” takes a deep dive into the world of luxury resale. In the piece, Prachi notes that the secondhand luxury market surged to $48 billion in 2023. At the same time, she posits a critical question: Are luxury brands supportive of resellers, or do they view them as a threat to brand integrity, especially in the face of increasing counterfeits?

M&R’s newest partner, Hooman Yazhari, was featured in a Law360 article titled Michelman & Robinson Adds Veteran C-Suite Atty In Dallas. Yazhari joins M&R with over 25 years of experience in leading private equity-backed and public companies. His roles as general counsel, chief executive officer, and board leader across various industries and geographies have honed his skills in corporate transformations.

As partner in M&R’s Dallas office and member of the firm’s Restructuring and Corporate Practice Groups, he plays a pivotal role in providing client service excellence and driving business and growth throughout M&R’s offices in California, Texas, New York, and globally.

The New York Fashion Sustainability and Social Accountability Act is gaining momentum in the New York State Legislature, signaling a potential landmark shift for the $2.5 trillion fashion industry. This groundbreaking bill aims to enforce rigorous environmental and human rights standards upon fashion companies selling in New York, impacting global giants and leveling the playing field for responsible brands. With support from high-profile names like Angelina Jolie, Stella McCartney, and Leonardo DiCaprio, the Fashion Act promises a future where sustainability and accountability are paramount in fashion. Read more about the pending law and its implications in Warren Koshofer’s latest article published by Total Retail:

As Warren Koshofer highlights in an article published by Total Retail, the New York Fashion Workers Act (FWA) aims to provide essential labor protections for models, influencers, artists, and stylists. Recently amended to include digital replica consent, the FWA addresses the lack of regulation for modeling and creative agencies. By closing loopholes that deprive fashion creatives of basic labor rights, the FWA seeks to ensure fair treatment and compensation and promises a more equitable future for those who are the faces of the fashion industry.

Warren Koshofer and Prachi Ajmera have penned a terrific article just published by Global Legal Post, shedding light on the significant strides luxury brands are making in prioritizing environmental responsibility and integrating technology to achieve sustainability objectives. It’s an insightful piece that’s definitely worth a read, especially for those keeping tabs on efforts within the fashion space to move the sustainability needle forward.

In his most recent article published in the Daily Journal, Alexander Safyan highlights recent regulatory developments in the financial services industry that are shaking up how banks operate. With the CFPB capping credit card late fees at $8 and the FTC considering a $3 limit on overdraft fees, banks are facing increased scrutiny and litigation. In response, they’re adjusting their fee practices, enhancing transparency, and reinforcing legal protections. As the regulatory and legal landscape evolves, banks must stay proactive to navigate the challenges ahead and maintain trust with consumers.

Seth Darmstadter’s most recent article, “Boeing PR Debacle Delivers a Lesson in Crisis Management,” has been published by Today’s General Counsel. In the piece, Seth explains how organizations can best navigate crises in the aftermath of a January 2024 mid-air incident requiring the emergency landing of an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 MAX 9, which caused reputational damage to the world’s largest aerospace company.

We’re thrilled to celebrate Lauren Varnado and Madison Dini, two stellar attorneys from our Houston team, for being honored as 2024 Texas Rising Stars by Super Lawyers, part of Thomson Reuters!

Lauren, a leading first-chair oil & gas trial lawyer, and Madison, renowned for her innovative work in the cosmetic medical device sector, embody the high standards and legal excellence M&R stands for. Their dedication and expertise continue to set us apart.

Congratulations, Lauren and Madison! Your remarkable achievements make us incredibly proud and highlight the distinguished representation you bring to our firm.