DOJ Announces New Trade Fraud Enforcement Initiative

The US Department of Justice has announced a new Trade Fraud Task Force and initiative, elevating trade fraud enforcement to a national and economic security priority. This signals increased scrutiny and criminal enforcement actions against companies involved in customs violations, tariff evasion, and forced labor.

USTR Seeks Input on Critical Minerals Trade Agreement

The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has opened a public docket to gather stakeholder input for a proposed "Plurilateral Agreement on Trade in Critical Minerals." This initiative aims to establish multinational policies for critical minerals supply chains, potentially including pricing mechanisms and investment incentives, following President Trump's Section 232 Proclamation.

China's 2025 Arbitration Law Effective

China's amended Arbitration Law, effective March 1, 2026, introduces significant reforms to its arbitration framework. Key changes include codifying the arbitration seat, expanding foreign-related arbitration access, strengthening court support for interim relief, and allowing limited ad hoc arbitration. International companies doing business with China should review their dispute resolution clauses.

In-Transit Freight Financing for Working Capital

This article discusses in-transit freight financing, a method for businesses to convert goods in transit into financeable assets to unlock working capital. It highlights how this strategy can help companies manage cash flow disruptions caused by unpredictable global supply chains and recommends partnering with experienced lenders.

State v. Whipple - Arizona Court of Appeals Non-Precedential Opinion

The Arizona Court of Appeals affirmed the convictions of Stanley Charles Whipple for promoting prison contraband and transportation or sale of narcotics. The court found sufficient evidence based on surveillance footage and seized narcotics valued at over $50,000.

State v. Triste - Arizona Court of Appeals Non-Precedential Opinion

The Arizona Court of Appeals issued a non-precedential decision in State v. Triste, concerning a petition for post-conviction relief. The court reviewed the superior court's order denying the petition and found no abuse of discretion.

State v. Davis - Arizona Court of Appeals Opinion

The Arizona Court of Appeals issued a non-precedential decision in State v. Davis, concerning a petition for post-conviction relief. The court reviewed the superior court's order dismissing the petition and found no abuse of discretion.

State v. Jensen - Arizona Court of Appeals Opinion

The Arizona Court of Appeals denied Michael Jensen's petition for review of a lower court's dismissal of his post-conviction relief petition. This marks Jensen's seventh such proceeding, with the court finding no abuse of discretion in the dismissal.

State v. Vigorito - Arizona Court of Appeals Opinion

The Arizona Court of Appeals issued a non-precedential decision in State v. Vigorito, concerning a petition for post-conviction relief. The court granted review of the petition but denied the requested relief.

State v. Guerrero - Non-Precedential Court Opinion

The Arizona Court of Appeals affirmed a conviction for unlawful flight from a law enforcement vehicle in State v. Guerrero. The court found that while a witness violation occurred, it did not prejudice the jury's verdict. The decision is non-precedential.