HOT DOCS

ENVIRONMENTAL LAW – Los Angeles Cnty. Flood Control Dist. V. Natural Res. Def. Council Inc.

OPINION – The Supreme Court reversed the Ninth Circuit, finding that the flow of water from a concrete channel within a river, that is, from an improved portion of the river to an unimproved portion of the river, was not a “discharge of pollutants” under the Clean Water Act. (U.S.)

CONTRACTS – Panthera Rail Car LLC v. Kasgro Rail Corp.

COMPLAINT – In a down market in 2005, plaintiffs claim Kasgro sought rent concessions from heavy rail car lessors like plaintiffs. In exchange for reduction in rent, the lessors made conditions, including that Kasgro could not buy more cars of its own. Now plaintiffs claim Kasgro breached that agreement, and interfered with plaintiffs’ potential rail car purchases. (N.D. Cal.)

TRADEMARK – Paris Hilton v. Abm Perfume

COMPLAINT – Paris Hilton owns a trademark of her name in association with fragrances, and owns distinctive trade dress for her fragrances. She claims defendant marketed fragrances using the distinctive design of her fragrance bottle and the design of the labeling. Hilton seeks an injunction, destruction of infringing products, and unspecified treble damages. (C.D. Cal.)

COURT WIRE: JUST FILED