A pretrial ruling compelling privileged communications or disqualifying chosen counsel can threaten a case long before trial begins and waiting for a final judgment to appeal may not undo that harm. In situations like these, a writ of mandamus may offer one of the few...
Dallas Legal Issues Blog
Proving willful infringement for enhanced damages in IP cases
In some intellectual property cases, a defendant knows about a patent or trademark and still infringes. When that happens, a court may increase the damages award. These enhanced damages issues can affect the overall damages position early in the case, particularly...
Cunningham Swaim Secures Reversal of $21.5 Million Judgment for Starr Indemnity in Published California Appellate Decision
Court of Appeal holds insurer entitled to rescind aircraft policy where jet was purchased with funds embezzled by Michael Avenatti DALLAS — October 1, 2026 — Cunningham Swaim, LLP today announced a significant appellate victory on behalf of its client, Starr Indemnity...
How to stay a judgment during a Texas appeal
When a Texas court enters a judgment, enforcement typically cannot begin until 30 days after the judgment is signed, providing the losing party a window to secure a stay. Texas Rule of Appellate Procedure 24 provides a mechanism to pause enforcement by posting a bond....
How to handle a business partner who misuses company money
Running a business with a partner or multiple partners come with real rewards and real responsibilities. It’s an exercise in sharing trust and financial control. You count on your partner to act in the company's best interest. But sometimes that trust breaks down....
Cunningham Swaim Takes Second Defense Verdict in 25 Days; Dallas Jury Rejects $200,000 Contract Claim in Under Seven Minutes
Lipscher v. Western Healthcare, LLC — 192nd Judicial District Court, Dallas County, Texas DALLAS, Tex. — [August 26, 2026] — A Dallas County jury returned a complete defense verdict in favor of Western Healthcare, LLC on August 25, 2026, rejecting a $200,000...
Difference between trademark dilution and trademark infringement
The uniqueness of a trademark must be guarded carefully; failing to do so can cause irreversible damage to your brand. If you suspect someone is misusing your trademark, it is important to understand the difference between trademark dilution and trademark...
What is tortious interference with a business relationship?
A good business relationship takes time to build. A loyal customer, trusted supplier or long-term partner can help a business grow. When someone intentionally harms that relationship through wrongful actions, the business may lose money or valuable opportunities....
Cunningham Swaim Obtains Defense Verdict in Federal Helicopter Trial; Jury Rejects $42 Million Demand in 37 Minutes
Romero v. Westwind Helicopters — U.S. District Court, Western District of Louisiana LAFAYETTE, La. — [August 14, 2026] — A federal jury returned a full defense verdict on liability in favor of Westwind Helicopters on July 31, 2026, rejecting a $42 million demand after...
Trademark infringement can damage a successful brand
Formal trademark registration is an important part of brand management and marketing. Submitting paperwork to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to designate an image as representative of a brand allows a company to confidently use a logo or image...

