JW Media | VIA ePostcard – February 2021

February 10, 2021 | Newsletters



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INSIGHTS

January 6/8

By Bob Latham

January 6, 2021, is likely to have a long section in the indices of history books for some time to come. Those of us who fight to uphold press freedom will view it not only as a day that imperiled our legislators and our physical manifestations of democracy, but also journalists who were trying to capture history in real time in the face of a hostile crowd. T-shirts and hats worn by more than one insurrectionist that day bore the phrase, “Murder the Media” – a slogan that was also scratched on a door of the Capitol.

If we needed an additional reminder of the dangers journalists face, it was provided two days later on January 8 with the release of “The Dissident” on video on demand.

Race, Diversity, Inclusion, and the Media Bar: Will the National Conversation on Race, Diversity, and Inclusion Bring About Meaningful, Lasting Change Within Our Bar?

By James McFall, Trey McDonald, & Miguel Ortiz

The myriad issues that underlie the racial disparities within the media bar and legal profession as a whole are not new. In the wake of national protests and calls for equality, however, corporations, law firms, and attorneys are facing increased pressure to not just acknowledge the systemic and structural inequities that perpetuate racial disparities, but also to take an active role in remedying some of those societal ills. It remains to be seen whether and to what extent their responses will bring about meaningful, lasting change.

“It is imperative that we, the members of the media bar, continue the conversation, call out and attempt to remedy structural inequities in our own institutions, and implement and support initiatives dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within our bar.”

WINNERS & LOSERS

Jackson Walker Defends Media Clients Against Class Action Suit

Chip Babcock, John Edwards, and Trey McDonald obtained dismissal of a class action claiming fraud, negligence, and violation of California and New York consumer protection and advertising laws based on three episodes of The Dr. Oz Show that touted generic weight loss supplements.

Jackson Walker Obtains Dismissal of Libel Suit

Paul Watler, Shannon Zmud Teicher, and Eric Wong defended The Dallas Morning News against a defamation suit related to an article reporting on the handling of donations intended to support the families of five fallen Dallas police officers who were ambushed at a protest in 2016.

WINNERS & LOSERS

2020*: An Unusual Year Sparks Debate Over Which Victories Were Legitimate

“Years from now when we will look back on the sports performances and results of 2020, certain competitions and victories will be viewed with asterisks while others will not. Here is my early take.”

JW NEWS & HIGHLIGHTS

Bob Latham Identified Among Top Attorneys in the Nation for Client Service

Corporate counsel have identified Bob Latham among the top 475 U.S. attorneys who deliver the best client service in BTI Consulting Group’s list of “BTI Client Service All-Stars.”

James McFall Named a “Best Lawyer Under 40”

James McFall was named, along with three other Jackson Walker attorneys, among D Magazine‘s list of the “Best Lawyers Under 40” for 2021.

Jackson Walker Releases 2020 Diversity & Inclusion Report

In the 2020 Diversity & Inclusion Report, Jackson Walker highlights four Pillars of Success as they relate to our focus on creating a culture of inclusion, on seeking future partners who reflect the diversity of our clients and communities, on developing and advancing our next generation of leaders, and on bringing positive change to our communities. For more information about our commitment to diversity and inclusion, visit JW.com/Diversity.

These materials are made available by Jackson Walker for informational purposes only, do not constitute legal advice, and are not a substitute for legal advice from qualified counsel. The laws of other states and nations may be entirely different from what is described. Your use of these materials does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and Jackson Walker. The facts and results of each case will vary, and no particular result can be guaranteed.

© 2021 Jackson Walker


In This Story

Robert P. Latham
Partner, Dallas

William A.I. McDonald III
Of Counsel, Houston

James Carlos McFall
Of Counsel, Dallas

Miguel A. Ortiz
Associate, Dallas

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