Law/Legal
Here's a look at documents from law firms and legal groups
Featured Stories
Littler Issues Commentary: Puerto Rico Governor Declares a State of Emergency Due to Influenza Epidemic, Activating Five-Day Paid Leave
SAN FRANCISCO, California, Jan. 29 -- Littler, a law firm, issued the following commentary on Jan. 28, 2026:
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Puerto Rico Governor Declares a State of Emergency Due to Influenza Epidemic, Activating Five-Day Paid Leave
By Erika Berrios-Berrios
Following the declaration of an influenza virus epidemic by the Puerto Rico Department of Health, Governor Jenniffer Gonzalez issued Executive Order 2026-005, declaring a State of Emergency to activate extraordinary measures for the protection of the public health.
Such declaration of emergency, made on January 27, 2026, activates the requirements
... Show Full Article
SAN FRANCISCO, California, Jan. 29 -- Littler, a law firm, issued the following commentary on Jan. 28, 2026:
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Puerto Rico Governor Declares a State of Emergency Due to Influenza Epidemic, Activating Five-Day Paid Leave
By Erika Berrios-Berrios
Following the declaration of an influenza virus epidemic by the Puerto Rico Department of Health, Governor Jenniffer Gonzalez issued Executive Order 2026-005, declaring a State of Emergency to activate extraordinary measures for the protection of the public health.
Such declaration of emergency, made on January 27, 2026, activates the requirementsof Act No. 37 of April 2020, which amended the provisions of Puerto Rico's Vacation and Sick Leave Act for non-exempt employees (or employees covered by the aforementioned Act), Act No. 180 of July 27, 1998, to recognize the special five-day paid leave entitlement.
This leave provides up to five paid working days for employees who suffer from, or are suspected of suffering from, the illness or epidemic that gives rise to the state of emergency, in this case, the influenza virus, and must have exhausted all leave to which they were entitled. That is, the employee must have exhausted both vacation leave and regular sick leave before being eligible to use this special leave.
Employers must ensure that this new paid leave is recognized in applicable cases.
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Authors
Erika Berrios - Berrios
Managing Capital Member
San Juan
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Original text here: https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/asap/puerto-rico-governor-declares-state-emergency-due-influenza-epidemic-activating
[Category: BizLaw/Legal]
Dinsmore Launches New Logo and Reimagined Website
CINCINNATI, Ohio, Jan. 29 -- Dinsmore and Shohl, a law firm, issued the following news release:
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Dinsmore Launches New Logo and Reimagined Website
Dinsmore is stepping into the future with a sleek new logo and a modern, user-friendly website. The refreshed visual identity honors the values that have made Dinsmore a trusted name for more than a century and embraces the sophistication and momentum that will define the next chapter.
Founded in 1908, Dinsmore has rapidly expanded from its Midwest roots into a firm with a nationwide footprint and forward-looking approach. This project launch
... Show Full Article
CINCINNATI, Ohio, Jan. 29 -- Dinsmore and Shohl, a law firm, issued the following news release:
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Dinsmore Launches New Logo and Reimagined Website
Dinsmore is stepping into the future with a sleek new logo and a modern, user-friendly website. The refreshed visual identity honors the values that have made Dinsmore a trusted name for more than a century and embraces the sophistication and momentum that will define the next chapter.
Founded in 1908, Dinsmore has rapidly expanded from its Midwest roots into a firm with a nationwide footprint and forward-looking approach. This project launchreflects the Firm's unwavering pursuit of progress and underscores deliberate steps to stay ahead of the curve through innovation, collaboration and exceptional client service.
"Dinsmore's brand evolution builds on more than a century of success," said Managing Partner Josh Lorentz. "While the legal industry is often perceived as rigid and transactional, the Firm's rebrand reflects a different approach, one that values relationships as much as results, and a commitment to improving every day."
The redesigned website delivers a streamlined, tailored experience telling the Firm's story and connecting visitors with the information they need most. It enhances accessibility, creates a stronger platform for recruiting attorneys and business professionals and deepens connections with alumni and clients by showcasing their achievements. Visitors will find an intuitive design, detailed information on more than 50 legal service areas, industry insights and stories that reflect collaboration and community, pillars of the Firm's culture.
What's new in 2026
* Logo: Featuring the Dinsmore diamonds, symbolizing sophistication, regality and the strength of our partnerships--past, present and future.
* Font: An art-deco-inspired design that nods to the roots of the Firm with a modern twist.
* Color Palette: Refreshed, bright colors, highlighting a new Dinsmore blue paired with royal purple for a bold, elegant look.
* Website: A modern design that's intuitive, fast and built to deepen relationships while telling the Dinsmore story.
"We've been incredibly intentional throughout this project. Every touchpoint now reflects what it means to work with Dinsmore," said John Bart, Senior Manager, Branding and Creative. "We're unchanged in our commitment to clients and world-class legal counsel, and now transformed in how we lead the industry into the future. This marks the beginning of a bold new era for Dinsmore, planting our flag as a Firm truly redefining legal excellence."
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Original text here: https://www.dinsmore.com/news/dinsmore-launches-new-logo-and-reimagined-website/
[Category: BizLaw/Legal]
Littler Issues Commentary: NLRB Region 12 Reinforces Imminent Closure Standard in SolarMovil PR LLC Decision
SAN FRANCISCO, California, Jan. 29 -- Littler, a law firm, issued the following commentary on Jan. 28, 2026:
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NLRB Region 12 Reinforces Imminent Closure Standard in SolarMovil PR LLC Decision
At a Glance
* Recent decision provides guidance on when the Board will dismiss a union petition involving employer operations that are temporary or about to close.
* Decision provides clarity on what proof employers can provide to support dismissal in these circumstances.
By Dylan C. Harriger and Rosalie DiFlora
On January 21, 2026, the NLRB regional director (RD) for Region 12 issued a decision
... Show Full Article
SAN FRANCISCO, California, Jan. 29 -- Littler, a law firm, issued the following commentary on Jan. 28, 2026:
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NLRB Region 12 Reinforces Imminent Closure Standard in SolarMovil PR LLC Decision
At a Glance
* Recent decision provides guidance on when the Board will dismiss a union petition involving employer operations that are temporary or about to close.
* Decision provides clarity on what proof employers can provide to support dismissal in these circumstances.
By Dylan C. Harriger and Rosalie DiFlora
On January 21, 2026, the NLRB regional director (RD) for Region 12 issued a decisionin SolarMovil PR LLC that provides timely and practical guidance for employers operating with project based, temporary, construction driven workforces, or are closing shop. While a regional director decision is not a binding decision of the NLRB, the case provides guidance on when the NLRB will dismiss a union petition to be certified as bargaining representative of the employer's employees because an employer's operations are ending imminently, and what evidence an employer must present to have the petition dismissed on such grounds.
Below we provide a breakdown of the decision and the key lessons for employers.
1. Should the NLRB Hold an Election When Work Is Ending?
On December 2, 2025, the union filed a petition to represent the employer's solar installation employees working at a specific solar farm in Puerto Rico. A hearing was held before the RD on December 11, 2025. At the hearing, the employer argued the petition should be dismissed because:
* The project was temporary;
* The company's work was 82% complete as of the hearing; and
* All employees were expected to be laid off in January 2026 when the job ended.
The RD agreed and dismissed the petition, holding that a union election would serve no purpose because the employer's operations at the project were "imminently and definitely" ending.
2. When Is Cessation "Imminent and Definite" According to the NLRB?
The NLRB requires concrete evidence, not mere speculation, that operations will cease soon. In this case, the RD pointed to:
* A written contract showing a fixed project end date.
* Credible testimony that work had been extended only into January 2026.
* No evidence of future work in Puerto Rico.
* Substantial completion of the contract's required work (82%).
The RD found that this combination met the Board's standard that cessation was "imminent and definite."
Employer Takeaway: If your organization is winding down (overall or for a specific project), documenting the timeline and communicating with employees is critical. The Board looks for clear, objective evidence rather than aspirational plans or tentative possibilities.
3. Job Completion Within 3-4 Months Is Enough to Dismiss a Petition
This decision reaffirms longstanding NLRB precedent: If an employer's operations end within approximately 90 days of a representation hearing, the Board is likely to dismiss a petition. The RD cited multiple cases finding that elections serve no purpose when:
* Projects will close within 3-4 months.
* Employees will be laid off at project completion.
* Employer's future operations are uncertain or speculative.
Employer Takeaway: For employers with short-term projects or cyclical work, understanding this timeline is crucial when responding to a representation petition.
4. Temporary Workforces Still Trigger NLRA Obligations
Although SolarMovil's workers were temporary, the employer still had to:
* Participate in a hearing;
* Provide evidence of project timelines; and
* Allow the union to present arguments.
The case wasn't dismissed simply because employees were project-based. It was dismissed because the employer proved the jobs were ending imminently.
Employer Takeaway: Being a temporary or project-based employer does not exempt you from union activity or the NLRA. Well-maintained documentation of project duration can be pivotal.
5. Notice to Employees Matters
The SolarMovil decision highlighted that employees:
* Were told when they were hired that the job was temporary.
* Were informed when the project end date was extended and when the project would end.
* Had not been told the business itself was closing but that didn't matter, because the unit (the workers at that project) would be fully laid off upon completion of the project.
Employer Takeaway: Clear, consistent communication to employees about project timelines strengthens an employer's position in a representation dispute tied to project completion. Complying with the above may also avoid federal WARN Act notice obligations.
6. Documentation is Key to Prevailing
SolarMovil succeeded largely because it had hard evidence, including:
* Contract documents with defined scopes and deadlines;
* Production reports showing near completion; and
* Credible testimony from a supervisor with firsthand knowledge.
Employer Takeaway: To successfully argue project completion, employers should retain:
* Contracts and amendments;
* Deployment schedules;
* Production reports;
* Layoff timelines; and
* Employee communications.
Well-documented operational facts carry significant weight.
Bottom Line for Employers
The SolarMovil decision offers clarity and reassurance for employers with short-term, project-based, construction operations, or are closing shop:
* The NLRB will dismiss a union petition when an employer can prove that operations are ending soon.
* Employers must present documented, objective evidence of project end dates and workforce layoffs.
* Clear communications, accurate data tracking, and consistent documentation play a critical role in resolving representation disputes.
For employers that frequently staff temporary projects or are closing shop, this ruling underscores the importance of aligning hiring practices, internal communications, contract records, and project records so that the employer can demonstrate when and how operations are expected to conclude.
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Authors
Dylan C. Harriger
Associate
New Haven
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Rosalie DiFlora
Associate
Long Island
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Original text here: https://www.littler.com/news-analysis/asap/nlrb-region-12-reinforces-imminent-closure-standard-solarmovil-pr-llc-decision
[Category: BizLaw/Legal]
Troutman Pepper Locke Achieves Strong Rankings in Chambers FinTech Guide 2026 Related Professionals
ATLANTA, Georgia, Jan. 28 -- Troutman Pepper, a law firm, issued the following news:
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Troutman Pepper Locke Achieves Strong Rankings in Chambers FinTech Guide 2026
NEW YORK - Troutman Pepper Locke has been recognized among the top global law firms for its FinTech practice in the Chambers FinTech guide 2026. The firm achieved four department band rankings and partners Kim Phan and Keith Barnett continue to be recognized as leading practitioners in the space.
FinTech Legal (USA) - Band 3
FinTech Legal: Corporate, Securities & Financing (USA) - Band 4
FinTech Legal: Data Protection & Cyber
... Show Full Article
ATLANTA, Georgia, Jan. 28 -- Troutman Pepper, a law firm, issued the following news:
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Troutman Pepper Locke Achieves Strong Rankings in Chambers FinTech Guide 2026
NEW YORK - Troutman Pepper Locke has been recognized among the top global law firms for its FinTech practice in the Chambers FinTech guide 2026. The firm achieved four department band rankings and partners Kim Phan and Keith Barnett continue to be recognized as leading practitioners in the space.
FinTech Legal (USA) - Band 3
FinTech Legal: Corporate, Securities & Financing (USA) - Band 4
FinTech Legal: Data Protection & CyberSecurity (USA) - Band 2
* Kim Phan - Band 2
FinTech Legal: Payments & Lending (USA) - Band 2
* Keith Barnett - Band 3
The Chambers FinTech guide is based on thousands of thorough research interviews, all conducted by Chambers' independent research team. Troutman Pepper Locke has consistently been celebrated for its exceptional FinTech practice. As one respondent noted, "The firm takes a very pragmatic, commercial approach to its advisory work - they always 'see around the corner' to the practical realities of implementing and operationalising their guidance."
Troutman Pepper Locke's Financial Services Group offers comprehensive support to financial services businesses in today's challenging and ever-changing environment. Consistently recognized as a leading service provider to all segments of the financial services industry, the firm provides timely and practical counsel to guide clients with their most important decisions. From global financial institutions to small banks and non-bank financial service providers, clients depend on Troutman Pepper Locke to help them achieve their strategic and commercial goals while managing regulatory and litigation risk.
Troutman Pepper Locke
Troutman Pepper Locke helps clients solve complex legal challenges and achieve their business goals in an ever-changing global economy. With more than 1,600 attorneys in 30+ offices, the firm serves clients in all major industry sectors, with particular depth in energy, financial services, health care and life sciences, insurance and reinsurance, private equity, and real estate. Learn more at troutman.com.
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Original text here: https://www.troutman.com/insights/troutman-pepper-locke-achieves-strong-rankings-in-chambers-fintech-guide-2026/
[Category: BizLaw/Legal]
The Big Whale's 2026 Predictions, The Big Whale
PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania, Jan. 28 [Category: BizLaw/Legal] -- Morgan Lewis, a law firm, issued the following news release:
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The Big Whale's 2026 Predictions, The Big Whale
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Partner Hubert de Vauplane commented in The Big Whale on the European Union's advancing digital euro agenda, as the project moves from technical groundwork into a decisive political phase.
"With the ECB's technical preparation phase underway and the legislative debate now shifting to Parliament, the coming months will be critical for determining the digital euro's scope and viability," Hubert said.
Read the full
... Show Full Article
PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania, Jan. 28 [Category: BizLaw/Legal] -- Morgan Lewis, a law firm, issued the following news release:
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The Big Whale's 2026 Predictions, The Big Whale
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Partner Hubert de Vauplane commented in The Big Whale on the European Union's advancing digital euro agenda, as the project moves from technical groundwork into a decisive political phase.
"With the ECB's technical preparation phase underway and the legislative debate now shifting to Parliament, the coming months will be critical for determining the digital euro's scope and viability," Hubert said.
Read the fullThe Big Whale article (https://app.thebigwhale.io/login)
Article is in French and a subscription may be required.
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Original text here: https://www.morganlewis.com/news/2026/01/the-big-whales-2026-predictions-the-big-whale
Taft IP Attorneys Recognized in 2026 Edition of WTR 1000
MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota, Jan. 28 [Category: BizLaw/Legal] -- Taft, a law firm, issued the following news:
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Taft IP Attorneys Recognized in 2026 Edition of WTR 1000
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Taft Intellectual Property partners Philip Bautista, Ashley Bennett Ewald, Kristine Boylan, Aaron Bradford, Jennifer Debrow, Jonathan Polak, Amanda Wilcox, and Amy Wright have been recognized in the 2026 edition of World Trademark Review 1000 : The World's Leading Trademark Professionals*, an annual ranking of the world's top trademark firms and practitioners published by World Trademark Review ( WTR ) magazine.
In this year's
... Show Full Article
MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota, Jan. 28 [Category: BizLaw/Legal] -- Taft, a law firm, issued the following news:
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Taft IP Attorneys Recognized in 2026 Edition of WTR 1000
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Taft Intellectual Property partners Philip Bautista, Ashley Bennett Ewald, Kristine Boylan, Aaron Bradford, Jennifer Debrow, Jonathan Polak, Amanda Wilcox, and Amy Wright have been recognized in the 2026 edition of World Trademark Review 1000 : The World's Leading Trademark Professionals*, an annual ranking of the world's top trademark firms and practitioners published by World Trademark Review ( WTR ) magazine.
In this year'sedition, WTR writes, "Adding value to business, Taft Stettinius & Hollister always look at the big picture" and adds that the firm commands "respect locally and nationally and is relied on implicitly by its clients for comprehensive trademark support."
Taft's IP team maintained a gold ranking in Indiana, a silver ranking in Minnesota, and a bronze ranking in Ohio. The team is described by WTR's researchers as follows, "Taft Stettinius & Hollister delivers high-level, business-focused trademark support backed by a vast network of resources, making it a standout choice for rock-solid prosecution strategies and impactful enforcement."
Taft's eight IP practitioners who were recognized in 2026 by WTR were described in detail, as follows.
Philip Bautista was recognized again in the silver band for individual practitioners in Ohio. According to WTR, he "co-chairs the trademark group and stands out as a tenacious trial lawyer with an impressive track record in courts nationwide, becoming a go-to advocate for clients in the life sciences, retail, and technology spaces." Click here* to view his profile on WTR's website.
Ashley Bennett Ewald was selected again in both the gold band for individuals: enforcement and litigation as well as in the silver band for individuals: prosecution and strategy. WTR editors describe her as an "experienced litigator" and state, "Ashley Bennett Ewald is a seasoned practitioner with a stellar reputation. Her extensive experience in state and federal courts nationwide showcases her prowess in handling cases of trademark infringement and unfair competition. She is lauded as 'professional, smart, and responsive'." Click here* to view her profile on WTR's website.
Kristine Boylan maintained her ranking in the silver band for individuals: prosecution and strategy. She is described by WTR as follows, "Boylan rounds out the team with a talent for distilling complexity in IP-intensive litigation. She is known for safeguarding clients' market share by pursuing infringers, neutralising copycats, and defending flagship IP assets with precision and resolve." Click here* to view her profile on WTR's website.
Aaron Bradford was ranked for the first time this year in the bronze band for individuals in Colorado. Bradford's inclusion reflects his growing recognition in the region for his practical, business-minded approach to trademark counseling and enforcement. Click here* to view his profile on WTR's website.
Jennifer Debrow once again earned recognition in the gold band for individuals in prosecution and strategy. WTR states, "Jennifer Debrow's expertise in registration and brand protection is highly regarded by clients worldwide. Praised for her 'thoughtful and practical advice,' her strategic counsel aids businesses in expanding globally while safeguarding their IP rights. Her extensive network of foreign associates ensures cost-effective solutions for global brand protection." Click here* to view her profile on WTR's website.
Jonathan Polak maintained a silver band ranking in Indiana. The chair of Taft's Intellectual Property practice is described in an interview with a WTR researcher as having "thirty years of experience in trademark and IP law have been instrumental in achieving successful outcomes. He can navigate the nuances of complex litigation, showcasing more than just textbook knowledge. He possesses instinct, discipline, and a deep understanding of intellectual property. His experience doesn't just help clients keep pace; it helps them stay ahead." Click here* to view his profile on WTR's website.
Amanda Wilcox is recognized again in the bronze band as a recommended individual practitioner. In an interview with WTR's research team, she is described as "highly recommended for trademark work across the board. She brings deep expertise to the table and is an invaluable sounding board for navigating a wide range of trademark issues. Her responsiveness and practical approach make her a pleasure to work with." Click here* to view her profile on WTR's website.
Amy Wright is recognized again in the gold band for individuals in Indiana. WTR writes, "Top companies are confident and happy placing their most important trademarks in the care of Amy Wright, co-chair of the trademark and copyright group. Her adept management of extensive trademark portfolios and vigilance against potential infringers make her a sought-after adviser. Click here* to view her profile on WTR's website.
About WTR
WTR 1000 is the only stand-only publication that focuses solely on trademark practices and lawyers and recognizes the leading players in more than 80 key jurisdictions. WTR conducts extensive qualitative research for its rankings, using factors such as depth of experience and market presence, alongside peer and client feedback, to identify the top firms.
*You may be required to login to view content on WTR's website.
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Original text here: https://www.taftlaw.com/news-events/news/taft-ip-attorneys-recognized-in-2026-edition-of-wtr1000/
Greenberg Traurig's David J. Dykeman and Andrew (A.J.) Tibbetts Present on 'The Future of MedTech: Trends & Opportunities in 2026'
MIAMI, Florida, Jan. 28 [Category: BizLaw/Legal] -- Greenberg Traurig, a law firm, issued the following news release:
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Greenberg Traurig's David J. Dykeman and Andrew (A.J.) Tibbetts Present on 'The Future of MedTech: Trends & Opportunities in 2026'
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BOSTON - Jan. 28, 2026 - David J. Dykeman and Andrew (A.J.) Tibbetts, shareholders in global law firm Greenberg Traurig, LLP, presented on the MassMEDIC webinar "The Future of MedTech: Trends & Opportunities in 2026" live from San Francisco during the J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference on Jan. 15. Joined by medtech experts Thomas Busby of
... Show Full Article
MIAMI, Florida, Jan. 28 [Category: BizLaw/Legal] -- Greenberg Traurig, a law firm, issued the following news release:
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Greenberg Traurig's David J. Dykeman and Andrew (A.J.) Tibbetts Present on 'The Future of MedTech: Trends & Opportunities in 2026'
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BOSTON - Jan. 28, 2026 - David J. Dykeman and Andrew (A.J.) Tibbetts, shareholders in global law firm Greenberg Traurig, LLP, presented on the MassMEDIC webinar "The Future of MedTech: Trends & Opportunities in 2026" live from San Francisco during the J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference on Jan. 15. Joined by medtech experts Thomas Busby ofMirus Capital Advisors and Irina Ridley of Aerin Medical, Dykeman and Tibbetts discussed financing, mergers and acquisitions, intellectual property, and the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in redefining the future of health care.
Dykeman is co-chair of Greenberg Traurig's Global Life Sciences & Medical Technology Group and co-managing shareholder of the Boston office. He focuses on securing worldwide intellectual property protection and related business strategies for high-tech clients, with particular experience in life sciences, medical devices, robotics, materials, and information technology. He provides strategic patent portfolio development and intellectual property advice for clients, including major research institutions, multinational corporations, and startup companies. He serves on the board of directors of MassMEDIC and previously served on the editorial advisory board for Medical Device & Diagnostic Industry (MD+DI) Magazine. Dykeman was named " Massachusetts Patent Strategy Attorney of the Year " by LMG Life Sciences in 2022.
Tibbetts, an Intellectual Property & Technology shareholder in the firm's Boston office, leverages prior experience as a software engineer to provide business-oriented intellectual property strategies for software, AI, and electronics-based technologies. He counsels on matters related to software-implemented tech across a range of industries, from networking, fintech, and natural language processing to life sciences, AI, medical records, and medical devices. Tibbetts advises a wide array of clients, ranging from international and publicly traded companies and large research institutions to small and growing companies. He serves on the board of directors of MassMEDIC and HealthTech Build, helping to support digital health efforts in the New England area.
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Original text here: https://www.gtlaw.com/en/news/2026/02/greenberg-traurigs-david-j-dykeman-and-andrew-tibbetts-present-on-the-future-of-medtech-trends-and-opportunities-in-2026
