Nov 25, 2024
Black and white image of Mickey Mouse in "Steamboat Willie," steering a ship's wheel.
Steamboat Willie Version of Mickey Mouse Enters the Public Domain

In November 1928, Walt Disney revolutionized the animation industry with the release of "Steamboat Willie," a cartoon that showcased synchronized sound and introduced the world to Mickey and Minnie Mouse. Mickey Mouse, in particular, evolved into an emblematic figure for Disney, permeating every facet of its branding, from theme parks... Read More »

A young woman explores vaping products in a retail shop, highlighting consumer interest in flavored tobacco items.
U.S. Supreme Court Declines to Review California's Flavored Tobacco Ban

In a significant development for public health and tobacco regulation, the U.S. Supreme Court, on Monday, January 7, 2024, decided not to review a challenge against California's ban on flavored tobacco products. This decision effectively upholds the voter-approved measure, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing battle over tobacco product... Read More »

A police drone in flight against a backdrop of trees.
Videos Taken by Police Drones Could Be Public Records… Or Not

Drones are changing the way police respond to 911 calls, but like all new technologies, courts are being challenged by how to respond to their use. The city of Chula Vista, California, is conducting a first-in-the-nation pilot program that uses drones as first responders to emergency calls for help. The... Read More »

A row of vehicles belonging to Protech Construction parked outside a building, showcasing the company's branding and logo.
Litigation Privilege Does Not Extend to Comments in the Media

Under California law, parties engaged in litigation are not liable for communications made during “planned or pending court actions.” However, a State appellate court has ruled that comments on defendant’s blog and Yelp are “akin to press releases,’ and therefore not immunized by California’s litigation privilege. Vanessa Hamilton, the defendant,... Read More »

Police vehicles with flashing lights responding to an incident.
Consented-To Search Also Permits Recordings by Undercover Law Agents

Defendant/Appellant Christopher Esqueda was a felon who tried to sell methamphetamines (meth) and a loaded .22 caliber revolver from his Anaheim hotel room in January 2020. Unfortunately for him, the potential buyers were two undercover law enforcement agents, one from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and... Read More »