Jeff Farrow was quoted in IAM on the resolution of a high-profile trade secrets dispute between IBM and GlobalFoundries. This closely watched case centered on allegations of misappropriation tied to advanced semiconductor technologies. Jeff noted that this resolution likely stemmed from a shared understanding that collaboration—not litigation—better aligned with both companies’ goals of innovation and strengthening the semiconductor industry. His takeaway? Businesses must conduct thorough due diligence when partnering with competitors to minimize risks, better positioning them to unlock opportunities to create groundbreaking technologies and drive business growth.

Jeffrey D. Farrow

Partner/Litigation Department Chair
Practices
Commercial & Business Litigation
Industries
Insurance, Internet, Software & Technology

Insights from Madison Dini have been featured in a Modern Aesthetics article titled “Legal Expert Discusses Industry Outlook for 2025.” In the story, Madison dives deep into the dynamics that will shape the medtech and aesthetics sectors this year. From forecasting an uptick in M&A activity—driven by post-election economic shifts and industry consolidation—to unpacking the potential impact of an FTC ban on non-compete clauses, her commentary offers a masterclass in understanding the business and legal landscape of this unique space. Madison’s remarks also underscore why M&R remains at the forefront of business law.

Madison Dini

Office Managing Partner
Practices
Commercial & Business Litigation
Industries
Healthcare

Hooman Yazhari has once again been asked for his insights into Spirit Airlines’ recent Chapter 11 filing—this time by Airline Economics for an article titled, “Spirit Airlines Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Protection.”Reflecting on the evolving aviation landscape, Hooman noted Spirit’s shift from a ‘no-frills’ model to premium offerings and the challenges posed by inflation, disrupted supply chains, and tightened access to capital. His analysis raises a key question: Can Spirit credibly pivot to appeal to a broader range of travelers?

Hooman Yazhari

Partner
Practices
Bankruptcy & Restructuring, Corporate, M&A, Securities & Real Estate
Industries
Advertising & Digital Media, Energy

Hooman Yazhari shared his expertise with Reuters on the financial and operational hurdles that led to Spirit Airlines’ recent bankruptcy filing. Hooman explored the mounting pressures on ultra-low-cost carriers and the broader aviation landscape, emphasizing why Spirit’s struggles underscore the evolving challenges of the post-pandemic travel market.

Hooman Yazhari

Partner
Practices
Bankruptcy & Restructuring, Corporate, M&A, Securities & Real Estate
Industries
Advertising & Digital Media, Energy

Hooman Yazhari was quoted in Aviation Pros discussing the wide-reaching implications of Spirit Airlines’ Chapter 11 filing. Hooman delved into how the bankruptcy affects airports, vendors, and the ultra-low-cost carrier market, highlighting the risks smaller regional airports face and offering proactive strategies for mitigating disruption.

Hooman Yazhari

Partner
Practices
Bankruptcy & Restructuring, Corporate, M&A, Securities & Real Estate
Industries
Advertising & Digital Media, Energy

Jeffrey Farrow has shared insights in an article published by IAM titled, “Shielding Trade Secrets During Mass Layoffs and Lessons from the Home of High Tech.” In the piece, Jeff explains how mass layoffs amplify trade secret theft risks—particularly as employees facing sudden job losses may act out of panic, inadvertently or intentionally misappropriating sensitive information. He also highlights the importance of robust planning and offboarding protocols to mitigate these risks, such as audits, clear confidentiality reminders, and targeted litigation strategies.

Jeffrey D. Farrow

Partner/Litigation Department Chair
Practices
Commercial & Business Litigation
Industries
Insurance, Internet, Software & Technology

Lara Shortz ascension to Office Managing Partner is the subject of another news feature—this time around, a story in the L.A. Times. In the article, Lara reflects on her 15-year journey at M&R, her vision for thoughtful growth, and her dedication to fostering a collaborative culture. The piece showcases Lara’s priorities—from training the next generation of attorneys to championing community partnerships—and makes clear that her leadership embodies the entrepreneurial spirit and client-focused approach that define the firm.

Lara A. H. Shortz

Office Managing Partner
Practices
Labor & Employment
Industries
Hospitality

This week, Michael Poster shared his insights with Billboard on the potential impacts of Universal Music Group’s (UMG) proposed move to a U.S. stock exchange. While such a listing could amplify UMG’s valuation, Michael highlights a key challenge: the surge in operational costs from increased shareholder litigation that U.S.-listed companies often face. His perspective adds depth to the discussion around UMG’s strategic choices, balancing growth ambitions with the realities of managing heightened legal exposure.

Michael S. Poster

Partner-in-Charge/Transactional Department Chair
Practices
Corporate, M&A, Securities & Real Estate, Intellectual Property
Industries
Advertising & Digital Media, Banking & Financial Services, Internet, Software & Technology, Music & Entertainment

Hooman Yazhari shared key insights with 9fin on the potential impact of a Trump presidency on private credit. In the piece, Hooman explains that while reduced regulatory hurdles may seem like a win for private lenders, it could actually diminish their competitive edge against traditional banks. “Less regulation for all, including the banks, is their kryptonite,” he says, pointing out that deregulation could level the playing field in a way that may not benefit private credit firms.

Hooman Yazhari

Partner
Practices
Bankruptcy & Restructuring, Corporate, M&A, Securities & Real Estate
Industries
Advertising & Digital Media, Energy

We’re proud to shine a light on Lara Shortz, who’s been featured in a Los Angeles Business Journal article titled, “Shortz Now Runs Local M&R Office.” The piece covers Lara’s ascension to OMP and highlights her vision and drive in this transformative period for the firm.

Lara A. H. Shortz

Office Managing Partner
Practices
Labor & Employment
Industries
Hospitality