Europe's Phaseout of Russian Gas by 2027 and Contractual Risks

Europe is mandating the phaseout of Russian gas imports by 2027, creating significant market and contractual risks for energy companies. The guidance outlines the policy shift, its impact on gas and LNG contracting, and strategies for managing increased contractual risk due to compressed timelines and geopolitical pressures.

Gulf Conflict Impacts Global Oil and LNG Markets

Vinson & Elkins LLP published a notice on March 2, 2026, detailing the potential impacts of the Gulf conflict on global oil and LNG markets. The analysis highlights how the duration and intensity of hostilities could affect crude prices, contractual performance, and supply chain stability for energy companies.

UK Securitisation Proposals Diverge from EU Position

The UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) have released consultation papers proposing reforms to the UK securitisation framework. These proposals aim to liberalise due diligence obligations and align with international, particularly US, market practices, diverging from the EU's approach.

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.

FinCEN and OFAC Intensify Efforts Targeting Mexican Cartel Money Laundering

FinCEN and OFAC are intensifying efforts against Mexican cartel money laundering, targeting over 100 US Money Services Businesses (MSBs) along the southwest border. Recent actions include sanctions against individuals and entities linked to the Hysa Organized Crime Group and proposed rulemaking to identify certain Mexican gambling transactions as primary money laundering concerns.

Trump Ends IEEPA Tariffs, Imposes New Trade Act Tariffs

President Trump ended tariffs imposed under IEEPA and initiated new tariffs under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, set at 15% and lasting 150 days. The USTR also announced new Section 301 investigations targeting major trading partners. These changes took effect February 20, 2026.

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.

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.

Supreme Court Invalidates IEEPA Tariffs; President Rescinds

The Supreme Court ruled that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) does not authorize the President to impose tariffs. Following this decision, President Trump issued an Executive Order rescinding existing IEEPA tariffs and directing agencies to terminate their collection. Businesses are advised to review contracts and plan for potential future tariffs.

SEC Adopts Final Rules for Holding Foreign Insiders Accountable Act

The SEC has adopted final rules implementing the Holding Foreign Insiders Accountable Act. These rules require directors and officers of foreign private issuers to electronically disclose their equity holdings and transactions in their company's securities starting March 18, 2026.

IRS Guidance on Prohibited Foreign Entity Safe Harbors for Clean Energy Tax Credits

The IRS and Treasury released Notice 2026-15 providing interim guidance on calculating material assistance from prohibited foreign entities for clean energy tax credits under Sections 45Y, 48E, and 45X. The notice outlines a four-step process for determining the Material Assistance Cost Ratio (MACR) and offers certain safe harbors.

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.

Russia/Ukraine Sanctions Update - February 2026

The U.S. OFAC issued an amended General License 131C extending certain transactions related to Lukoil International GmbH through April 1, 2026, and updated related FAQs. The EU also extended its sanctions against Russia until February 24, 2027, and added eight individuals to its sanctions list.

Abrego v. Econ/Zurich - Workers' Compensation Appeal

The Arizona Court of Appeals affirmed a decision by the Industrial Commission of Arizona to dismiss a workers' compensation claim. The dismissal was based on the claimant's failure to timely request a hearing after an award was issued.

Torgyik v. bell/trans - Arizona Court of Appeals Opinion

The Arizona Court of Appeals affirmed an Industrial Commission of Arizona award in Torgyik v. bell/trans. The court found that the evidence supported the commission's decision that the petitioner employee's industrial injury was medically stationary and that the claim was closed without permanent impairment.

Dyrek v. Dyrek - Arizona Court of Appeals Non-Precedential Opinion

The Arizona Court of Appeals vacated and remanded two rulings in the consolidated cases of Dyrek v. Dyrek. The appeals concerned a petition for relief from a consent decree based on alleged fraud on the court and a civil complaint for fraudulent inducement and negligent misrepresentation.

Arizona Court of Appeals Opinion on Parental Rights

The Arizona Court of Appeals issued a non-precedential decision affirming the termination of parental rights for Mother F.G. The case, docketed as 1 CA-JV 25-0120, involved repeated instances of substance abuse by the mother, leading to dependency and termination proceedings.

State v. Schwan - Non-Precedential Opinion

The Arizona Court of Appeals issued a non-precedential decision in State v. Schwan, affirming the appellant's convictions for aggravated driving under the influence with a suspended driver's license. The court found no arguable questions of law after reviewing the record.

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.

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.

Handy v. Shaw - Arizona Court of Appeals Opinion

The Arizona Court of Appeals affirmed a lower court's decision in Handy v. Shaw, denying a mother's petitions to modify legal decision-making and parenting time. The ruling upholds the prior order granting the father sole legal decision-making authority and restricting the mother's parenting time.

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. 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.

Watson v. Holley - Family Law Appeal Decision

The Arizona Court of Appeals affirmed a lower court's decision in Watson v. Holley, denying a father's motion for relief from a judgment granting the mother final legal decision-making authority. The court found the appeal of the denial of the Rule 85 motion to be without merit.

Dominguez v. Rowland/Vandermeer - Estate Dispute

The Arizona Court of Appeals affirmed a lower court's decision to set aside the will of Arturo Lopez. The appeal was filed by the sister-in-law of the deceased, who argued various errors in the trial court's proceedings and findings. The appellate court found no reversible error.

Arizona Court Rules on Minimum Wage Initiative Repeal

The Arizona Court of Appeals ruled that a 2006 initiative allowing local governments to regulate minimum wages did not repeal a 1984 law prohibiting political subdivisions from mandating that government contractors pay prevailing wages. The court affirmed a lower court's decision, impacting Phoenix and other cities.

Court of Appeals Opinion on Parental Rights Termination

The Arizona Court of Appeals affirmed a lower court's decision terminating parental rights for A.S. The mother challenged the termination, which was based on prolonged substance abuse and the child's extended out-of-home placement. The court found the mother waived her right to contest by failing to appear at a crucial hearing.

Jarvis v. Assa Abloy - Employment Law Appeal

The Arizona Court of Appeals affirmed a lower court's decision to terminate an employment lawsuit for lack of jurisdiction after it was removed to federal court. The court also affirmed the denial of a motion to disqualify the superior court judge. The decision is non-precedential.

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. 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.

Perez v. McCrary - Non-Precedential Court Opinion

The Arizona Court of Appeals affirmed a lower court's decision in Perez v. McCrary, a non-precedential case concerning a dissolution of marriage. The appellate court found no error in the lower court's rulings on discovery violations, child support, debt division, or the designation of the appellant as a vexatious litigant.

Isom v. Isom - Arizona Non-Precedential Court Opinion

The Arizona Court of Appeals vacated a $5,000 contempt sanction against Jenell Isom, ruling it violated Arizona Rule of Criminal Procedure 35.4(a). The court granted relief, finding the sanction exceeded the $300 limit for fines imposed without a jury trial or waiver thereof.

Adoption of Ilee - Massachusetts Appeals Court

The Massachusetts Appeals Court affirmed a Juvenile Court judge's decision to terminate a mother's parental rights and approve adoption by foster parents. The mother appealed, but the court found no error in the judge's findings or rulings.

Anthony Khorzoughi v. Department of Unemployment Assistance - PUA Benefits

The Massachusetts Appeals Court affirmed a decision denying pandemic unemployment assistance (PUA) benefits to Anthony Khorzoughi. The court found that Khorzoughi failed to demonstrate he was working in Massachusetts when his business was impacted by COVID-19, thus upholding the denial of benefits.

Coppenrath v. Pontiff Cranberries - Appeals Court Opinion

The Massachusetts Appeals Court issued a non-precedential opinion in Coppenrath v. Pontiff Cranberries, affirming a lower court's dismissal of a complaint challenging an earth removal permit. The court found the plaintiffs lacked standing to challenge the permit issued by the town of Carver's earth removal committee.

Adoption of Jazzy - Massachusetts Appeals Court Opinion

The Massachusetts Appeals Court issued a non-precedential opinion affirming a lower court's decision to terminate parental rights and approve adoption by the children's maternal aunt and uncle. The parents appealed, arguing the court failed to determine reasonable efforts by the Department of Children and Families, adequately consider guardianship, or order post-decree contact.

Family Behavioral Health Inc. v. 387 Main Street Realty Trust - Appeals Court Opinion

The Massachusetts Appeals Court issued a non-precedential opinion affirming a lower court's judgment against 387 Main Street Realty Trust and Raymond Bonneville. The defendants were found liable for breach of contract, interference with business relations, and unfair trade practices. The court found the defendants' arguments regarding sufficiency of evidence were waived.

Corona-Montano v. United States - Alien Transport Sentencing Appeal

The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed a district court's sentencing enhancement for transporting an unaccompanied minor in the case of Luis Francisco Corona-Montano. The court held that the Sentencing Guidelines do not require scienter for this enhancement, affirming the 71-month sentence.

Malibu and Culver City v. FAA - Standing for NextGen Initiative Challenges

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals dismissed petitions from the Cities of Malibu and Culver City challenging the FAA's NextGen initiative. The court found the cities lacked standing to sue over the 2018 amendments and that challenges to the original 2016 procedures were untimely.

Culver City v. Federal Aviation Administration - Standing to Challenge Air Traffic Procedures

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals dismissed petitions from the Cities of Malibu and Culver City challenging FAA air traffic procedures. The court found the cities lacked standing to sue, as they failed to demonstrate a reasonable probability of injury from the challenged 2018 amendments to the NextGen initiative.

US Sanctions Rwandan Officials for Violating Washington Accords

The United States has sanctioned the Rwandan Defense Force (RDF) and four senior RDF officers for their support of the M23 movement in the DRC, violating the Washington Accords for Peace and Prosperity. This action, taken under Executive Order 13413, demonstrates U.S. resolve to uphold regional stability.

NY Sues Harbourview Realty to Stop Pollution Discharges

New York State agencies have filed a lawsuit against Harbourview Realty LLC to halt alleged illegal pollution discharges into Hempstead Bay. The suit seeks injunctive relief to stop the unpermitted discharges and civil penalties for violations of the Clean Water Act.

State v. Aliff - Probation Revocation Appeal

The Court of Appeals of Kansas affirmed a district court's decision to revoke Allen Dale Aliff's probation and impose his underlying 33-month prison sentence. The appeal was submitted for summary disposition.

People v. Suarez - California Court of Appeal Opinion

The California Court of Appeal affirmed the denial of Jose Alfredo Suarez's petition for resentencing under Penal Code section 1172.6. The court found that Suarez's conviction for second degree murder was based on his determination as the actual killer, thus precluding relief under the statute.

People v. Pipping - Criminal Appeal

The California Court of Appeal, Fourth Appellate District, Division One, affirmed the conviction of Brian Frederick Pipping for second-degree murder and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The court found no constitutional ineffectiveness of counsel regarding alleged prosecutorial misconduct during closing arguments.

People v. Nelson - Criminal Appeal

The California Court of Appeal affirmed the denial of a petition for resentencing filed by Charles L. Nelson. The court found that Nelson was the actual perpetrator of the offenses and therefore ineligible for relief under Penal Code section 1172.6. The appeal was reviewed under the Wende/Anders standard.

People v. Baltazar - Criminal Resentencing Appeal

The California Court of Appeal affirmed a trial court's denial of a resentencing petition filed by Ernesto Baltazar under Penal Code section 1172.6. The court found substantial evidence that Baltazar aided and abetted a killing with intent to kill, thus disqualifying him from resentencing.

People v. David - Criminal Appeal

The California Court of Appeal issued an opinion in the case of People v. David, concerning a defendant convicted of five counts of first-degree murder and three counts of assault causing death. The court vacated four of the multiple-murder special circumstance findings as duplicative, otherwise affirming the judgment.

People v. Luna - Criminal Appeal

The California Court of Appeal, Third Appellate District, filed an opinion in the case of People v. Luna. The court affirmed the trial court's order denying the defendant's request for recall and resentencing under Penal Code section 1172.1. The opinion is not certified for publication.

People v. Oliver - Non-Precedential Opinion

The California Court of Appeal, Fourth Appellate District, Division One, affirmed the conviction of Gianni Adrian Oliver. The non-precedential opinion, filed on March 2, 2026, confirmed that there were no arguable issues on appeal following Oliver's conviction stemming from a shootout with police.