Spring 2021 News: Schiffer Hicks Johnson

NEWS IN FOCUS

Spring 2021

SHJ Secures Minnesota Supreme Court Win in Ongoing Mining Case

Schiffer Hicks Johnson is representing Glacier Park Iron Ore Properties LLC, a large mineral owner, in a lawsuit and resulting appeal against United States Steel Corporation, a mining company, involving U.S. Steel’s burying of millions of tons of iron resource under stockpiled mining waste in Minnesota. After successfully appealing the trial court’s dismissal with prejudice, we obtained a ruling in our client’s favor from the Minnesota Supreme Court on April 20, sending the case back to trial court.

News

The Keystone XL Pipeline Was Shut Down—Now What?

In the wake of President Joe Biden’s executive order revoking the Keystone XL pipeline permit, oil and gas producers are bracing for additional actions. “Three Steps Oil and Gas Producers Should Take Now,” by partners Andy Hicks and Adam Dinnell, offers guidance for producers looking to clarify potential remedies and mitigate future losses.

A Guide to Texas Trade Secret Laws

With recent jury awards in trade secret disputes trending well into the nine-figure range, companies need to be well-versed in state and federal laws regarding trade secret litigation. “A Guide to Texas Trade Secret Laws,” by partner Varant Yegparian, provides an overview of two key laws, the Texas Uniform Trade Secret Act (TUTSA) and the recently enacted Defend Trade Secrets Act of 2016 (DTSA), highlighting a spate of recent decisions from the Texas federal courts.

Who Qualifies as a Healthcare Provider in Texas?

As healthcare becomes more technology-driven, the traditional understanding of what constitutes a “heathcare provider” has been blurred. A recent article by senior associate Brandon Winchester and partner Andy Hicks delves into protections afforded by the Texas Medical Liability Act, which can be used as an important tool for medical technology companies facing possible liability related to the provision of medical care.

How to Prepare for the Deluge of SPAC Litigation

Transactions involving special purpose acquisition companies (SPACs) have risen at a meteoric rate in recent months. “How to Prepare for the Deluge of SPAC Litigation,” by partner Varant Yegparian, examines key legal issues that could arise in the event of SPAC litigation and provides sponsors—including private equity firms and investment banks—with a general outline of steps that may mitigate legal exposure.

SHJ Partners Host Virtual CLE Presentations

Our lawyers took to Zoom to share actionable guidance on pressing industry issues. “How COVID-19 Has Affected ADR Practice,” “The Impact of the Supreme Court’s McGirt Decision on Oklahoma Oil and Gas Business,” and “Genetic ‘Fingerprinting’ May Be Key in Virus Exposure Suits” are still available to access for CLE credit.

People

Senior Associates Tapped as Texas Rising Stars

Associates Matthew Davis and Brandon Winchester were named to the 2021 Texas Rising Stars List. Partner Andy Hicks commented, “We are delighted to see the work of these young litigators being recognized, and especially proud that both of our senior associates were tapped for 2021.” According to Thomson Reuters, which compiles the annual ranking, “The Texas Rising Stars list is an honor reserved for those lawyers who exhibit excellence in practice. Only 2.5 percent of attorneys in Texas receive this distinction.”

SHJ to Welcome Largest-Ever Summer Class

We’re excited to welcome our largest summer class to date: five summer associates (2L) and two summer law interns (1L). “This class is our most accomplished group yet,” recruiting partner Adam Dinnell noted. “While larger firms have had to cut back or, in some cases, cancel their summer programs, we’re pleased that we have been able to expand.”

A Renewed Focus on Community

At SHJ, we take our civic responsibilities seriously. Through pro bono representation, professional leadership, volunteerism, and charitable giving, we share our experience, skills, and resources with those in need. Our successes in the pro bono arena have been a particular highlight of the past year, including a rare victory in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit.