Renzulli Law Firm
WASHINGTON STATE ADVANCES BILL TO BAN GHOST GUNS FOR SOME
WASHINGTON STATE ADVANCES BILL TO BAN GHOST GUNS FOR SOME So-called “Ghost Guns” continue to be a hot topic for state and local governments across the nation. Now, in Washington state, lawmakers are taking steps to limit, but not outright ban, “Ghost Guns.” “Ghost Guns” are firearms that are referred to as “untraceable” because they…
CONN. SUPREME COURT ALLOWS “NARROW LEGAL THEORY” TO PROCEED IN SANDY HOOK CASE; AFFIRMS DISMISSAL OF ALL OTHER CLAIMS
Today, the Connecticut Supreme Court affirmed the dismissal of all of plaintiffs’ claims against the manufacturer, wholesale distributor, and retail dealer in Soto v. Bushmaster Firearms International, LLC, et al., except for a narrow theory related to the marketing of firearms. The Court unanimously dismissed plaintiffs’ primary claims that the sale of Modern Sporting Rifles,…
BACKGROUND CHECK BILLS PASS HOUSE, LIKELY DOA IN SENATE
BACKGROUND CHECK BILLS PASS HOUSE, LIKELY DOA IN SENATE The 2018 election saw the Democratic party take a majority of seats in the United States House of Representatives, and many of the victorious candidates ran on a platform that included support for stricter gun control measures. One of the first actions taken by the house…
Breaking News: “Red Flag” Bill Signed Into Law in New York
Breaking News: “Red Flag” Bill Signed Into Law in New York At the end of January, the New York legislature passed a package of gun control laws ranging from a ban on bump stocks to a “red flag” law that would allow educators, law enforcement, or family members to petition a judge to confiscate an…
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE NEW BUMP STOCK REGULATIONS
President Trump directed the Attorney General to draft regulations banning bump stocks after the October 21, 2017 shooting at the Route 91 Harvest Music Festival in Las Vegas, Nevada during which Stephen Paddock used AR type rifles with bump stocks installed on them to kill 58 people and injure approximately 500. Bump stocks are replacement…
Renzulli Run Down: New Jersey Enacts “Ghost Gun” Ban
This month, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed into law a broad ban on so-called “Ghost Guns” (which we have covered previously). In a press release he stated: “Ghost guns can be created by anyone with a computer and access to a 3D printer, giving the public at large the ability to build their…
Practice Alert: Mandatory Warnings in California Have Changed – Are You Compliant?
On January 1, 2018, key legislative amendments went into effect that substantially revised and updated child-related firearm warning requirements in California. Prior to January 1, California law required the following child-related warning, in both English and Spanish, to be placed on the packaging of any firearm, and any descriptive materials that accompany any firearm, sold…
California Law Prohibiting Firearms Retailers from On-Site Advertising of Handguns Violates First Amendment
In what can only be regarded as a win for firearm retailers in the state of California, Judge Troy L. Nunley, United States District Judge for the Eastern District of California, issued a decision on September 11, 2018, in which he concluded a California statute prohibiting firearm retailers from on-site advertising of handguns violated the…
FIREARMS ON DEMAND? A FEDERAL JUDGE HITS THE PAUSE BUTTON ON 3D PRINTED FIREARMS
This week, a federal judge granted an emergency temporary restraining order (“TRO”) preventing Defense Distributed, a Second Amendment advocacy group, from distributing files on the Internet that could be used to create firearms on a 3D printer. Here is the Renzulli Run Down of what you need to know: Defense Distributed, led by Cody Wilson,…
TRUMP’S SUPREME COURT NOMINEE IS EXPECTED TO SUPPORT SECOND AMENDMENT RIGHTS
Last night, President Donald Trump nominated Judge Brett Kavanaugh of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit to the U.S. Supreme Court, to fill the seat left open in the wake of Justice Anthony Kennedy’s retirement. The nomination (Trump’s second to the U.S. Supreme Court) is likely to have a lasting…
“RED FLAG” FIREARM SEIZURE LAWS PROLIFERATING
Seven states have enacted “red flag” laws this year, continuing a demonstrable trend since the Parkland shooting. Now, a total of twelve states, including California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington, have “red flag” laws on the books. These laws allow law enforcement officials and family members…
Practice Alert: Revise Your Warnings to Comply With Changes to California’s Prop 65 Regulation
Significant changes to California’s Proposition 65 warning regulations will go into effect in two months, on August 30. Enacted in 1986, California’s Proposition 65 (commonly called “Prop 65”) requires businesses to provide a warning regarding products that contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Prop…
California’s New Consumer Privacy Act Ushers In New Requirements
Throughout the months leading up to the implementation of the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) — the EU’s radical overhaul of data privacy rules and regulations — we predicted that the states would begin enacting tougher, more stringent data privacy laws. (We even predicted that California would take the lead.) Yesterday, California enacted the…
Justice Kennedy’s Retirement Gives Trump Opportunity to Shape U.S. Law and Protect the Second Amendment
Yesterday, Justice Anthony Kennedy announced his retirement, effective July 31, from the U.S. Supreme Court. Justice Kennedy, who has served on the Supreme Court for almost three decades, is frequently cast as a crucial “swing vote” in controversial cases, meaning that he is perceived as being the fifth vote in narrow 5-4 decisions. As the…
U.S. Supreme Court Rules States Can Require Internet Retailers To Collect Sales Tax
The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that states can compel online retailers to collect sales tax. The case, South Dakota v. Wayfair (No. 17-494), overturns two previous Supreme Court decisions and represents a landmark shift in law and policy that will tremendously impact online shopping. Here is the Renzulli Run Down of what you need…
NRA CALLS OUT GOVERNOR CUOMO AND OTHER NEW YORK POLITICIANS
The National Rifle Association (NRA) is taking on New York Governor Cuomo and other high-ranking government officials in New York. In a lawsuit filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of New York, the NRA accuses Cuomo and other officials of pressuring private companies, both publicly and behind closed doors, to…
New Jersey Governor Signs Stringent “Gun Control” Measures Into Law
As expected, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has signed six stringent “gun control” bills into law. We brought these measures to your attention in our “Renzulli Run Down” earlier this week. Here is what you need to know about the new laws: Bill No. A-1181 mandates the seizure of firearms owned by individuals if a…
New Jersey Expected To Enact Stringent New Firearm Laws
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy is expected to sign six new “gun control” laws this week, which Governor Murphy touts are “sweeping gun safety legislation” that will be some of the “toughest gun laws” in the nation. Here is the “Renzulli Run Down” of what you need to know: Bill No. A1181 mandates the seizure…
Trump Administration Proposes Substantial Improvements to the Firearm Export Process
The Trump Administration recently published regulations (which had been drafted by the Obama Administration, but never published), that would transfer jurisdiction over the export of most firearms from the Department of State to the Department of Commerce. The proposed regulations, if enacted, will greatly benefit the firearms industry, which has been lobbying for these changes…
The GDPR Applies Around The World, Not Just In The EU
A common misconception is that the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) applies only to businesses physically located in the EU. As you know from our previous article (“The Final Countdown To The GDPR Is Here. Are You Ready?”), the GDPR – which becomes officially effective one month from today on May 25, 2018 –…
The Final Countdown To The GDPR Is Here. Are You Ready?
The European Union’s most comprehensive data privacy overhaul in decades, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), becomes effective on May 25, 2018 – just over one month away. With the deadline fast approaching, it has been widely reported that businesses around the world are not prepared or are significantly underprepared for the GDPR. This poses…
ILLINOIS SENATOR PROPOSES LEGISLATION ROLLING BACK OVERLY RESTRICTIVE REGULATIONS ON AIR-GUN OWNERSHIP
If you own a high-powered air-gun in Illinois this may surprise you: Your air-gun may (technically) be a firearm. The current law in Illinois treats air-guns with projectiles that measure larger than .177 caliber, or have a muzzle velocity of more than 700 feet per second, as firearms. Accordingly, the standards and requirements governing…
SIG SAUER EMPLOYEES INDICTED FOR ALLEGED VIOLATIONS OF THE GERMAN FOREIGN TRADE ACT
Five employees of Sig Sauer GmbH have been indicted by the public prosecutor in Kiel, Germany and charged with violating the German Foreign Trade Act. The indictment stems from allegations that Sig Sauer GmbH illegally exported approximately 36,000 pistols to the Colombian National Police during the period from 2009 to 2012. During that time, Colombia…
FLORIDA MUNICIPALITIES SUE OVER STATE FIREARM LAW
Ten Florida municipalities and their elected officials filed a lawsuit in Florida on Monday challenging a Florida state law that imposes penalties on municipalities and their officials when they are found to knowingly and willfully impinge on the State Legislature’s exclusive jurisdiction over firearm and ammunition regulation. The plaintiffs assert that in light of the…
APPELLATE DIVISION REJECTS CONSTITUTIONAL CHALLENGES TO NEW YORK’S REQUIREMENTS REGARDING CONCEALED CARRY LICENSES
In an unfortunately predictable decision given New York’s aggressive gun-control measures, New York’s Appellate Division, First Department, rejected constitutional challenges to New York’s legal requirements for obtaining a license to carry a concealed firearm. Jonathan Corbett brought several constitutional challenges relating to the licensing requirements in New York. His initial claim was filed in New York…
Government Contracts
The Federal Government reports that it is the single largest buyer of consumer goods and services in the world, with annual spending totaling an estimated $450 billion per year. With $450 billion at stake, an essential requirement for doing business with the Federal Government is to work with a law firm that has the knowledge…
Commercial Litigation & Business Disputes
Renzulli Law Firm attorneys represent clients in a wide variety of commercial litigation matters and business disputes. We use a “trial ready” approach that draws on our extensive experience in the courtroom to navigate and guide clients through pre-litigation and pre-trial matters. Our “trial ready” approach enables the effective and efficient resolution of disputes prior…
Congress Set to Consider “Extreme Risk Protection Orders”
Senate Bill 2521, a bill to authorize the issuance of extreme risk protection orders, has gained another Republican co-sponsor, Senator Collins (R-ME), as of March 23, 2018. The bill, originally introduced on March 8, 2018 by Senators Blumenthal (D-CT) and Graham (R-SC), is similar in scope and effect to the Florida ‘red flag’ bill which…
DOJ Inches Closer To Federal Bump Stock Ban
DOJ has finally released a notice of proposed rulemaking (“Notice”) that would effectively ban “bump stocks,” “slide-fire” devices, “and devices with certain similar characteristics.” As originally announced, DOJ intends to clarify that all bump stock devices are “machineguns” under the Gun Control Act (“GCA”) and National Firearms Act (“NFA”). The Notice contends in large part…
Intellectual Property Portfolio Management & Monitoring
Effective protection of intellectual property assets is a necessity in the modern global business world. Renzulli Law Firm attorneys have experience at every stage of an IP assets’ life-cycle, from strategically establishing rights to managing and protecting rights. Our attorneys work closely with clients to understand their drivers and goals and to create a management…
Anti-Counterfeiting & Enforcement
We take a unique, proactive and efficient approach to identify and stop infringement wherever it occurs. We have extensive experience prosecuting all forms of infringement, including trademark infringement, trade dress infringement, patent infringement and the dilutive use of trademarks. We are often able to achieve our clients’ objectives quickly and efficiently through cease and desist…
Intellectual Property Licensing & Transactions
Just as it is important to protect intellectual property assets through registration and enforcement, we recognize the important of strategically and effectively monetizing and leverage those assets. Our licensing and transaction attorneys possess in-depth knowledge of and experience with a wide-range of intellectual property matters and concepts. Our lawyers have assisted clients in building and…
NRA FILES LAWSUIT TO ENJOIN FLORIDA’S VIOLATION OF THE SECOND AMENDMENT RIGHTS OF YOUNG ADULTS
Florida Governor Rick Scott signed SB 7026 into law on Friday. Among other things, SB 7026 raised the minimum age to buy a rifle or shotgun from 18 to 21, effective immediately. The new provision is Fla. Stat. § 790.065(13), which provides that: “A person younger than 21 years of age may not purchase a…
U.S. DOJ Takes Step Toward Bump Stock Ban
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) a notice of proposed regulation relating to “bump stock” devices. The DOJ has identified the following objectives and goals in filing the notice: Clarify that the definition of “machinegun” in the National Firearms Act (NFA) and Gun Control Act…
BREAKING NEWS: FLORIDA GOVERNOR RICK SCOTT SIGNS GUN CONTROL MEASURE (SB 7026)
Florida Governor Rick Scott signed SB 7026 into law today. As discussed in our previous post, SB 7026 changes Florida law relevant to the sale of firearms in the following manner: The minimum age to purchase rifles and shotguns in Florida has been increased from 18 to 21. There will be a three-day waiting period…
FLORIDA LEGISLATURE PASSES GUN CONTROL MEASURE; NEW BILLS ARE INTRODUCED IN OTHER STATES
Florida Gun Control: The Florida legislature passed SB 7026 a $400 million gun control measure, which will now proceed to Florida’s Governor, Rick Scott. Here is what you need to know about the measure: The minimum age to purchase rifles and shotguns would be raised from 18 to 21. A three day waiting…
STATE LEGISLATORS CONTINUE TO PUSH KNEE-JERK FIREARM CONTROL BILLS; WHILE LIKELY TO FAIL, OUR INDUSTRY MUST BE ALERT
Two more state legislatures, the Illinois House of Representatives and the Ohio Senate, will be weighing new proposed firearm control measures, proving that the uptick in knee-jerk, rushed legislation following the Parkland tragedy continues. The Illinois bill has passed the state House of Representatives. The bill makes it illegal for persons under the age of…
NY, NJ, CT, AND RI FORM COALITION; AGREE TO SHARE FIREARMS DATA
The Governors of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Rhode Island have announced their formation of a new “States for Gun Safety” coalition. Through the Coalition, the four states plan to openly share information of persons prohibited from possessing firearms pursuant to their respective state laws using a centralized database. In addition, they intend to…
NEW “ASSAULT WEAPONS BAN” INTRODUCED TARGETING SPECIFIC FIREARMS, DEVICES, AND MANUFACTURERS
Two Democratic Representatives, David Cicilline (D-R.I.) and Ted Deutch (D-Fla.), have introduced a sweeping bill called the “Assault Weapons Ban of 2018.” The bill, if passed in its current version, would make it illegal to “import, sell, manufacture, transfer, or possess, in or affecting interstate or foreign commerce, a semiautomatic assault weapon,” and would ban devices such as…
UPDATE: Concealed Carry Bill Gets House Approval; “Fix NICS” Full Steam Aheard
H.R. 38, entitled the “Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act of 2017” (CCRA) has been passed by the U.S. House of Representatives. As we have previously reported, the bill allows any person who is carrying a valid government-issued identification document and is either: (1) also carrying a valid license or permit issued by any state that permits carrying…
What You Need To Know About The Fix NICS Act Of 2017
The “Fix NICS Act of 2017,” Senate Bill 2135 and House Bill 4434, which was introduced this month with bi-partisan support, is supported by both the NRA and the NSSF. The Fix NICS Act of 2017 is an important piece of legislation for the Industry. It will improve the records available to NICS and therefore…
RLF Appears Before The Connecticut Supreme Court
RLF Partner Christopher Renzulli appeared before the Connecticut Supreme Court on November 14 in the Sandy Hook case, Soto v. Bushmaster Firearms International, LLC, et al. The highly-anticipated and widely-covered oral argument represented the culmination of months of briefing on an appeal by the plaintiffs of Connecticut Judge Barbara Bellis’ decision granting a motion by…
Hearing Protection Act of 2017: The Deregulation of “Suppressors”
Several bills have been introduced that, if passed, would substantially alter the regulation of suppressors. In particular, House Bill H.R. 367 and Senate Bill S. 59 (referred to as the Hearing Protection Act of 2017), which were introduced in January, would remove suppressors from regulation under the National Firearms Act (“NFA”). Here is what you…
Renzulli Law Firm, LLP Receives Substantial Judgment for Client
Renzulli Law Firm, LLP represented Glock, Inc. in a case brought against one of its former distributors and its president and sole shareholder in federal court in Georgia. The case primarily involved claims that the defendants had violated the Georgia Civil RICO Act by purchasing discounted Glock pistols that were restricted to resale to the…
Lessons You Should Learn From The Sig P320 “Voluntary Upgrade”
Over the past several weeks, a series of incidents and reports have surfaced indicating that not only can Sig Sauer, Inc.’s (Sig Sauer) P320 pistol fire when dropped, but that Sig Sauer may have been aware of the defect for a substantial period of time prior to these recent incidents and reports. For example, in…
California Muddles State “Assault Weapon” Prohibition
The California Office of Administrative Law recently approved proposed regulations submitted by the California Department of Justice that expand the definition and registration requirements for “assault weapons” under California law. In 2016, the California Legislature altered the definition of “assault weapon” for pistols and rifles to eliminate the “bullet button” exception to California’s “assault weapons” prohibition.…
RLF Achieves Substantial Settlement For Injury Victim
As reported in the New York Daily News, Renzulli Law Firm, led by its Founder John Renzulli, secured a $3.85 million settlement on behalf of its client, Jesus Santiago, who had been severely injured when a tree fell on him in Brooklyn. The tree fell on Mr. Santiago as he was on his way home…
Steyr Arms Files New Patent Infringement Action Against Sig Sauer, Inc.
Steyr Arms, Inc. (“Steyr”) has filed a patent infringement action against Sig Sauer, Inc. (“Sig”) alleging that several of Sig’s pistol models – including the P250 and P320 – infringe one of its patents. In the lawsuit, which was filed in May in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Alabama, Steyr alleges…
Supreme Court Nixes Law Against Disparaging Trademarks
In a significant ruling this week, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a portion of the Lanham Act that permitted the U.S. Government to bar the registration of “offensive” trademarks. The provision, often referred to as the “disparagement clause” of the Lanham Act, prohibited the registration of trademarks “which may disparage … persons, living or…
New Jersey State Police Sues Sig Sauer, Inc.
The State of New Jersey filed a lawsuit against Sig Sauer, Inc. (“Sig”) in New Jersey Superior Court in Mercer County on April 27, 2017. The complaint, a copy of which can be read here, alleges that the New Jersey State Police (“NJSP”) selected the Sig P229 as its duty weapon in 2014. The complaint…
Patent Infringement In Focus: U.S. Supreme Court Clarifies Venue Rules for Patent Infringement Lawsuits
The United States Supreme Court recently clarified how the patent venue statute applies when a patent infringement lawsuit is brought against a domestic (U.S.) corporation. The case, TC Heartland, LLC v. Kraft Foods Group Brands, LLC, No. 16-341 (decided May 22, 2017), involved a patent infringement lawsuit brought by Kraft Foods Group Brands, LLC (“Kraft”),…
Renzulli Law Firm Achieves Substantial Victory in the Indiana Supreme Court
On April 24 2017, the Indiana Supreme Court issued a unanimous decision in favor of Renzulli Law Firm, LLP’s clients KS&E Sports and Edward J. Ellis in a case that had been brought against them by Dwayne H. Runnels. KS&E Sports had sold a handgun to Tarus Blackburn, who was alleged to have straw purchased…
Congress Set To Address Concealed Carry
On March 1, 2017, Senator John Cornyn introduced the Constitutional Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act of 2017 (“CCCRA”). The following is a link to the text of the CCCRA: https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/446/text. The CCRA is similar to the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act of 2017 (“CCRA”), which Representative Richard Hudson introduced on January 3, 2017. The following is a…
SHOT Show 2017 Wrap-Up
Renzulli Law Firm led two lively and informative seminars this year at SHOT Show 2017, one called “Ask a Firearms Attorney” and one on “Intellectual Property”. During our “Ask a Firearms Attorney” seminar we highlighted a range of hot topics facing the Industry, including political issues, legislative trends, prominent Industry litigation and the Protection of…
RLF Victory: “Privately” Maintained Social Media Information Found Discoverable
Renzulli Law Firm, LLP, on behalf of a Pennsylvania indoor shooting range, recently prevailed on a motion to compel the production of information that a personal injury plaintiff posted privately on Facebook. Plaintiff’s lawsuit alleges that he suffered hearing loss from gunshot noise he was exposed to while discharging firearms in defendant’s shooting range. We…
RLF Victory: Summary Judgment Granted on Injury Claims
RLF recently obtained summary judgment in a personal injury case on the basis that the plaintiff did not sustain “serious injury” as defined by Insurance Law § 5102(d). In granting the motion for summary judgment and dismissing the case, the Supreme Court of Nassau County held that defendants established their burden by proving plaintiff’s miscarriage…
Seventh Circuit Invalidates Chicago Regulation Effectively Prohibiting Firing Ranges
The United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit in Ezell v. City of Chicago, Nos. 14-3312 & 14-3322, recently invalidated three Chicago regulations that drastically limited where firing ranges could be located within city limits and who could enter those ranges. The location-related regulations limited the operation of firing ranges to manufacturing districts…
Suicide Prevention Resources for Shooting Ranges and Retailers
The National Shooting Sports Foundation (“NSSF”) and American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (“AFSP”) recently announced at the SHOT Show in Las Vegas a partnership to educate the public and industry members about suicide prevention as it relates to firearms. The partnership aims to educate firearm owners about suicide, its warning signs, risk factors and the importance…
ATF Adopts Noteworthy Changes To Form 4473
The ATF has adopted a new Form 4473 that all FFLs must use beginning on January 16, 2017. Several of the changes on the new Form 4473 clarify current laws that already apply to firearm sales made before the revised forms must be used. Two of those changes are of particular relevance. First, the new…
Recent Developments in “Microstamping” Legislation
The Court of Appeals of the State of California, Fifth Appellate District, in National Shooting Sports Foundation, Inc. v. California, Case No. F072310 (Cal. Ct. App.), recently reversed a lower court’s ruling dismissing the NSSF’s petition to enjoin enforcement of California’s requirement that manufacturers “microstamp” all new semiautomatic pistols sold in the state. “Microstamping” generally…
4 Absolutely Critical Legal Issues For Mobile App Developers
With the “app economy” predicted to double by 2020 to an incredible $101 billion, and the number of new apps quickly rising, app developers (and, frankly, anyone else involved in app development from owners to investors) need to focus on critical legal issues to protect themselves and their apps. An article published by VentureBeat touts…
BREAKING NEWS: Renzulli Law Firm Achieves Major Victory In Sandy Hook Case
Connecticut Judge Barbara Bellis just granted the defendants’ motion to strike all of the plaintiffs’ claims in Soto v. Bushmaster Firearms International, LLC, et al. A copy of the decision can be found here. The Soto case arose from the December 14, 2012 shooting at the Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. Plaintiffs filed…
Another Victory For the Second Amendment: Federal Court Strikes Down Firearm Restrictions
On September 28, 2016, in Murphey v. Guerrero, Chief Judge Ramona Manglona of the U.S. District Court for the District of the Northern Mariana Islands declared several key aspects of the Weapons Control Act and Special Act for Firearms Enforcement of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (“CNMI”) to be unconstitutional on the basis…
Federal Appeals Court Hears Challenge To Hotly Contested D.C. Conceal Carry Law
This week, the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit heard oral arguments in two closely-watched cases challenging Washington D.C.’s strict concealed carry laws, Wrenn et al. v. District of Columbia et al., and Grace et al. v. District of Columbia et al. Both cases involve challenges to the District of…
Renzulli Law Firm, LLP in the News
Christopher Renzulli appeared before Indiana’s highest court — the Supreme Court of Indiana – on Wednesday on behalf of an Indiana firearms retailer and its owner concerning the application of an Indiana Statute, I.C. 34-12-3-3, that prohibits civil lawsuits for claims against a firearms seller for “recovery of damages resulting from the criminal or unlawful…
Keeping The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act In Focus
As the 15th Annual Firearms Import/Export Conference confirmed, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) remains dedicated to Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) enforcement. The FCPA is complex and nuanced but, in a nutshell, prohibits bribes to foreign officials. In April, DOJ announced that it was in the process of dedicating significantly greater resources to the…
Protecting Your Federal Firearms License and Minimizing Violations During a Compliance Conference
Renzulli Law Firm, LLP regularly represents federal firearms licensees who receive a report of violations from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (“ATF”) based on a compliance inspection. We recently represented federally licensed firearms dealers in the ATF’s Dallas and Houston Field Divisions with regard to reports of violations they had received at…
Federal Law Opens Door To “Ex Parte” Seizures Under Trade Secrets Act
There is a new and potentially powerful tool available to protect trade secrets – ex parte seizures. The Defend Trade Secrets Act (DTSA), enacted May 11, 2016, implements a federal civil cause of action for trade secret misappropriation. Among its remedies, the DTSA permits injunctive relief, the recovery of damages for misappropriation, attorney’s fees for…
Hearing Loss Claims in Firearms Litigation
In recent months, we have seen an upward trend in claims being made by individuals alleging hearing loss as a result of firearm noise. Litigants have asserted such claims against firearms manufacturers, distributors, and retailers, as well as shooting ranges and the manufacturers of ammunition, suppressors, hearing protection, and other firearms accessories. Our Firm has…
Successfully Navigating the Complex Maze of Firearm Import and Export Laws
The laws governing the import and export of firearms are complex and regularly changing. Numerous federal agencies, including the Department of State, the Department of Justice, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Department of Commerce have jurisdiction regarding the import and export of firearms. Renzulli Law Firm, LLP regularly counsels its firearms industry clients…
Massachusetts Attorney General Unilaterally Expands “Assault Weapons” Prohibition
As many readers know, Maura Healey, the Massachusetts Attorney General, recently issued an “Enforcement Notice” that attempted to “clarify” the definition of “assault weapons” in Massachusetts. Massachusetts General Law chapter 140, section 123 prohibits the sale of statutorily-defined “assault weapons” in the Commonwealth with certain exceptions. Although the Office of the Attorney General maintains that…
U.S. Supreme Court Vacates Decision Upholding Stun Gun Ban
On March 21, 2016 the United States Supreme Court issued a per curiam (“by the Court”) opinion, without full written or oral arguments, in Caetano v. Massachusetts vacating a decision by the Supreme Court of Massachusetts that upheld the conviction of Jaime Caetano for possession of a stun gun. Ms. Caetano had possessed the stun…
Christopher Renzulli Featured In Global News & Media
On February 22, Christopher Renzulli appeared before Judge Barbara Bellis in the Fairfield Judicial District Superior Court in Bridgeport, Connecticut to argue a motion to dismiss a major firearms distributor from litigation that arises out of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting on December 12, 2012. The manufacturer, distributor and retailer of the AR-15 rifle…
SHOT Show 2016 in Las Vegas, Nevada
It was another successful SHOT Show for the firearms industry this year. The NSSF reports that it was the second highest attendance total ever – more than 64,000 industry professionals attended the Show. The industry sent a message to its detractors through its robust attendance that it is alive and well and flourishing and will…
Asbestos Litigation Victory for Manufacturer in New York
On January 27, 2016 a Lewis County, New York jury returned a defense verdict in favor of Copeland Corp, a refrigeration compressor manufacturer, in a personal injury and wrongful death case brought by Sarita Olley who claimed her late husband, David Olley, developed mesothelioma as a result of his alleged exposure to asbestos-containing products, including…
General Liability, Casualty & Insurance
Premises Liability & Construction/Labor Law Renzulli Law Firm attorneys have extensive experience defending premises liability and labor law lawsuits in multiple jurisdictions. We represent defendants in lawsuits involving residential dwellings and a wide array of commercial properties, including restaurants, retail stores and supermarkets. Our clients include municipalities, property owners, general contractors, subcontractors and their insurance…
Supreme Court Denies Review of Assault Weapons Ban
Supreme Court Denies Review of Assault Weapons Ban On Monday, December 7, 2015, the United States Supreme Court denied review of the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuits ruling in Friedman v. City of Highland Park. The case arose out of the City of Highland Parks ordinance prohibiting possession of assault weapons…
Firearms Sales to Individuals on the “No-Fly” List Raises Questions
Questions continue to surface concerning the prohibition on firearms sales to individuals on the federal no-fly list. January 4, 2016; Evidence continues to mount that prohibiting individuals on the federal governments no-fly list from purchasing firearms would prevent many innocent Americans from exercising their Second Amendment rights. Following President Obama’s push for legislation to prohibit…
Intellectual Property
Our Intellectual Property practice focuses on maximizing the value and potential of our clients’ intellectual property rights. The Renzulli Law Firm approach is strategically tailored to our clients’ specific business needs, drivers and philosophies. We work with our clients from invention and creation to maintenance and protection in order to help them achieve sustainability, value and growth. Our Intellectual Property attorneys provide…
Asbestos Litigation
Renzulli Law Firm’s asbestos litigation practice focuses on the defense of corporate clients in asbestos personal-injury actions filed in the State of New York. Renzulli Law Firm provides full coverage throughout New York, including New York County (“NYCAL”) and all venues in upstate New York. Our attorneys have served as local counsel and National Coordinating…
New York’s Film Tax Credit Brings Hollywood East
New York has long sought to rival California as a preferred filming destination for the motion picture industry. And why not? New York offers some of the most diverse filming locations in the U.S. (think of the endless possibilities ranging from Manhattan skyscrapers to the Adirondack mountains). But what is drawing Hollywood to New York is not…
Licensing Continues To Be A Dominant Marketing And Retail Force
Saying that licensing is a dominant marketing and retail force might be an understatement. In 2014, licensing accounted for $241.5 billion in the global marketplace. However, that’s not to say other marketing channels should be neglected or not used at all. It’s very important that businesses still maintain a strong webpage by implementing great SEO…
NYAG Announces Settlement with Major Retailers over Sale of Imitation Firearms
August 4, 2015; On August 3, 2015, the New York Attorney General’s office issued a press release announcing agreements with Amazon, Kmart, Sears, Walmart, and California-based ACTA for violating New York State law concerning the sale of toy or imitation firearms. An investigation between 2012 and 2014 found that these retailers, and numerous third-party sellers…
Christopher Renzulli and Peter Malfa Featured in For The Defense
June 16, 2014: Defense Research Institute (DRI) recently featured an article co-authored by Christopher Renzulli and Peter V. Malfa, Construction Contracts: Personal Jurisdiction and Forum Selection Clauses, in its June 2014 Construction Law issue of For The Defense magazine, which can be found here. The article addresses recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions that redefine the…
Kaine Introduces New Firearms Transfer Legislation; Kalashnikov Announces Plan to Enforce Patents
Kaine Introduces New Firearms Transfer Legislation September 16, 2015; United States Senator Tim Kaine of Virginia has introduced legislation seeking curb “straw sales” and other firearms sales to prohibited persons under federal law. The Responsible Transfer of Firearms Act would require any transferor of a firearm to take “reasonable steps” to make sure that the…
Kaine Introduces New Firearms Transfer Legislation; Kalashnikov Announces Plan to Enforce Patents
Kaine Introduces New Firearms Transfer Legislation September 16, 2015; United States Senator Tim Kaine of Virginia has introduced legislation seeking curb “straw sales” and other firearms sales to prohibited persons under federal law. The Responsible Transfer of Firearms Act would require any transferor of a firearm to take “reasonable steps” to make sure that the…
Congressional Research Service Debunks “Epidemic” of Mass Public Shootings
Congressional Research Service Debunks “Epidemic” of Mass Public Shootings On July 30, 2014, in the wake of several high-profile public shootings, the Congressional Research Service published a report on mass shootings. The report challenges media characterizations of the mass public shootings as an “epidemic” and instead shows no significant increase in mass shootings in the…
Los Angeles Bans Large-Capacity Magazines
July 31, 2015; On Tuesday, July 28, the Los Angeles City Council voted unanimously to ban the possession of firearm magazines that hold more than 10 rounds. California already bans the manufacture and sale of large-capacity magazines, however possession of large capacity magazines remains legal. Los Angeles lawmakers saw this as a loophole. Once Mayor…
Tennessee Lawmaker Pushes for Repeal of Bill that Disallows Armed Military Personnel at Recruitment Stations
July 20, 2015; In the wake of the tragic shootings at a military support center in Chattanooga, TN, Rep. Scott DesJarlias of Tennessee seeks to repeal the ban on military personnel carrying firearms at recruitment stations and on base. The proposed legislation is titled “Enhancing Safety at Military Installation Act.” The ban is the result of a…
No Background Checks for Ammunition Under NY SAFE Act; Concealed Carry Amendments in Mississippi
No Background Checks for Ammunition Under New York SAFE Act July 14, 2015; Background checks will not be required under the New York SAFE Act pursuant to a memorandum of understanding (“MOU”) signed by Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo’s director of state operations, James Malatras, and State Senate Majority Leader John Flanagan. Although the provision was…
Small Victory for NYCAL Defendants!
July 14, 2015; Even though the First Appellate Department unanimously affirmed in part NYS Supreme Court Sherry Klein Heitler’s Order entered on April 15, 2014 (“April Order”) that lifted the 18-year deferral on punitive damages in New York City Asbestos Litigation (“NYCAL”) actions, the First Appellate Department’s Decision also reversed and remanded a significant portion…
Texas Governor Signs Open Carry Bill; New “Smart Gun” Bill Introduced
Texas Governor Signs Open Carry Bill; New “Smart Gun” Bill Introduced Texas Governor Signs Open Carry Bill June 15, 2015; Texas Governor Greg Abbot has signed HB 910 (The Texas Open Carry Bill for Concealed Handgun Holders) and SB 11 (the Campus Carry Bill) into law. HB 910 – which will go into effect on…
Equity Firm Offers Cash-Out for Remington Shares; Supreme Court Rules on Felon Firearm Transfers
Firm Offers Cash Out to Investors who Own Shares in Remington Outdoor May 19, 2015; Private equity firm Cerberus Capital issued a letter to its investors on Friday, advising them that they are permitted to sell their stakes in Remington Outdoor (formerly known as Freedom Group). Investors now have thirty days to make a decision…
NY Senate Majority Leader Willing to Revise SAFE Act; NJ Legislators Rethinking “Smart-Gun” Mandate
NY Senate Majority Leader Willing to Revise SAFE Act May 15, 2015; NY Senate Majority Leader John Flanagan (R-Long Island) recently stated that he is willing to work with his colleagues in an effort to amend two major parts of the NY SAFE Act – the first being restrictions on passing firearms to family members…
New York Court Orders Release of Firearm Registration Data; 3-D Firearm Designer Sues State Dept
New York Court Orders Release of Firearm Registration Data Judge Thomas J. McNamara (NY Supreme – Albany County) has ruled that the New York State Police must release data regarding the registration of firearms that may qualify as “assault weapons” under the provisions of the NY SAFE Act. The case, Robinson v. Cuomo et al.,…
New York Court Orders Release of Firearm Registration Data; 3-D Firearm Designer Sues State Dept.
May 8, 2015; Judge Thomas J. McNamara (NY Supreme – Albany County) has ruled that the New York State Police must release data regarding the registration of firearms that may qualify as “assault weapons” under the provisions of the NY SAFE Act. The case, Robinson v. Cuomo et al., was filed in 2014 by pro-firearm…
FL Tightens Backyard Rules; Sweeping Reform in NC; NRA Suit to Continue
Florida Considers Tightening of Backyard Range Rules The Florida House has passed a bill that would make it a misdemeanor to discharge a firearm for recreational purposes in a residential area with a density of one or more housing units per acre. If passed by the Senate (and signed into law), the bill (couched as…
Corporations Consider Registering Trademarks in Cuba as Trade Relations Expand
April 28, 2015: As relations between the United States and Cuba continue to transform, corporations are beginning to realize the potential to expand their businesses into a country that once was off limits. Selling goods and services in Cuba means that corporations will want to have their brand name and products trademarked in Cuba as…
Bill to Eliminate Race Disclosure on 4473s; Video Ad Criticizes Kroger’s Open-Carry Policy
April 16, 2015: Bill Proposes Elimination of Mandatory Race Disclosure for Firearm Sales The Freedom From Intrusive Regulatory Enforcement of Arbitration Registration Mandates (FIREARM) Act was reintroduced this week by Republican Representatives. If passed, the FIREARM Act would eliminate the requirement that firearm dealers submit information about the race of their customers on 4473s. The…
Dem Proposes Tax Credit for Handing Over “Assault Weapons”; 3-D Printed Weapons Ban?
March 9, 2015: Democrat Proposes Tax Credit for Handing Over “Assault Weapons” Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.) introduced the “Support Assault Firearm Elimination and Reduction for our Streets Act” (also known as the SAFER Streets Act) Monday. If passed, the bill would provide for a $2,000 refundable tax credit to “assault weapon” owners who turn in…