News Type: Publications

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.

Mark Robinson’s take on referral fees and the regulatory challenges they can pose is the subject of his latest article published by Insurance Journal. In a piece titled, “Referral Fees: A Multi-State Overview,” Mark offers a state-specific analysis of referral fees directed to unlicensed individuals.

Liza Kirillova and Adam Bingham have written an outstanding article focused on potential risks associated with the use of artificial intelligence that parties to M&A deals should keep top of mind. The piece titled, “AI Risks in M&A Transactions,” was published this week in Corporate Compliance Insights.

An article co-authored by Lauren Varnado and Jessica Pharis has been published in the Hart Energy Newsletter. Titled “Varnado, Pharis: Navigating the Royalties Legal Landscape,” the piece covers a trend in oil and gas litigation marked by an increase in lawsuits concerning the calculation and payment of oil and gas royalties to interest owners.

Marc Jacobs penned an article titled, “Federal Court Paves Way for TCPA Defendants to Attack Class Actions on Constitutional Grounds,” published by JD Supra. The piece covers the Hannabury case, in which it was held that a plaintiff’s claims under the TCPA do not survive his or her death. As covered in the story, Marc points out that by virtue of the ruling in Hannabury, corporate defendants could now argue that the aggregation of the minimum $500 to $1,500 fine under the TCPA on a class-wide basis is unconstitutional.

Mehdi Sinaki’s latest article, “Considerations For Navigating Mixed-Use Developments,” was just published by Law360. The piece explores the rising popularity of multi-use developments and highlights important legal, financial, regulatory and community considerations that investors and developers should keep top of mind when embarking on these projects.