Comment & Opinion

“Fender’s recent copyright dispute may have started in the guitar industry, but the lessons are relevant to any business with valuable intellectual property. The case highlights the importance of choosing what rights to enforce, carefully planning your enforcement strategy and recognising that legal victories do not always translate into commercial wins.”

“Reputational damage can spread quickly, particularly online. The Court of Appeal’s decision in Bridgen v Hancock provides useful guidance on when a negative statement may be protected as honest opinion rather than amounting to actionable defamation.”

“The Supreme Court’s decision in McCafferty means landowners and businesses facing protest or other trespass activity will have to consider and formulate their response more carefully than ever before. The judgment effectively narrows the circumstances in which trespass can be prosecuted via public nuisance.“

“For demand customers who have already been through the Gate 2 to Whole queue process and have received a Gate 2 offer or are expecting a Gate 2 offer, Ofgem’s latest consultation might impact your demand connections further.”

“Whether it’s high street stores selling illegal cigarettes, or logistics networks being co-opted for the storage and transport of contraband, knowledge of tenants’ criminal activity can expose landlords to liability.”

“The new UK consumer protection enforcement regime has attracted significant attention in the online retail space and digital markets. However, the new regime is equally relevant to housebuilders.”