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Appellate

Texas Justices Decline to End Winstead Malpractice Suit

The court unanimously determined that at this stage in proceedings USA Lending Group had presented enough evidence to avoid Winstead’s bid to have the lawsuit tossed under the Texas Citizens Participation Act. Assuming without deciding that the state’s anti-SLAPP law applies to this case, the justices found that USA Lending should be allowed to proceed in the trial court with the suit accusing the firm of failing to request $1.2 million in damages in a motion for default judgment.

15th COA Bill Nears Enactment

Legislation to create a new intermediate appellate court to hear cases involving state government and appeals from new business specialty courts advances as the legislative session starts to wind down.

Litigation Roundup: Investors Sue Blackstone over ‘Rushed’ $788M Sale, SCOTX Decides Arbitration Spat

In this week’s edition of Litigation Roundup, the state of Texas turns to Gibson Dunn & Crutcher to defend it in a long-running lawsuit over the quality of foster care, minority investors in an energy company allege one of the world’s largest hedge funds breached its duties in a rushed $788 million sale, and the Texas Supreme Court clarifies the reach of arbitration provisions.

Baker McKenzie’s Nick Kennedy Goes to Washington

Nick Kennedy, a partner in the firm’s Dallas office, recently argued his first case before the U.S. Supreme Court. He sat for an interview with The Lawbook about the experience, the preparation and the possible ramifications of the court’s decision.

FedEX, Amici Tell 5th Circ. $365M Punitive Award Can’t Stand

The International Association of Defense Counsel, the Federation of Defense and Corporate Counsel, Airlines for America, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and Lawyers for Civil Justice all filed amicus briefs in support of FedEx last week. FedEx is fighting a $366 million jury verdict in favor of former employee Jennifer Harris.

Texas Justices OK State’s Emissions Scandal Suit Against VW, Audi

The case went through two rounds of oral arguments at the state’s high court, saw the voluntary recusal of two justices and the appointment by the governor of two intermediate appellate justices to the case. The ruling will allow Texas to bring its lawsuit against the German automakers alleging they violated state environmental laws via the emissions-cheating software scandal perpetrated by the companies.

Legislature Enters Final Month

Debate is expected Monday on HB 19, controversial legislation to create a separate system of courts to hear high-dollar business disputes. The bill has emerged as a partisan issue, laments Mark Lanier, a high-profile trial lawyer and Republican donor who opposes the proposal. In other, less contentious, action, the House has voted to increase juror pay and raise the mandatory retirement age for judges.

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