Rising to first tier, Jenner & Block is at the forefront of copyright litigation arising from internet and new media. Its creative content practice was created specifically to handle new media, IP licensing and trade mark disputes. "It really has a deep bench when it comes to IP litigation," said one client. Formerly a partner at Davis Wright Tremaine and specialising in media and entertainment, Andrew Thomas recently joined the firm's Los Angeles office.
Jenner & Block represents Viacom in its suit against YouTube and Google regarding the ISP's liability for infringement committed by users. With an appeal filed in the Second Circuit Court of Appeals, Viacom plans to pursue what it characterises as YouTube's intentional infringement for its own and Google's financial gain. The firm is also widely regarded as the go-to firm for the recording industry, with clients such as the Recording Industry Association of America, EMI Music North America, Sony Music Entertainment, Universal Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment and Warner Music Group. "I find their contributions valuable to what I do," said one client. "I find them to be really good counsellors and really pragmatic."
Of Steven Englund, one client said: "I don't think anybody is better at understanding copyright issues surrounding the music industry. If I ever had an esoteric copyright question, he'd be the first person I'd ask." Creative content co-chairs Steven Fabrizio and Andrew Bart are also well regarded by legal commentators. "Fabrizio in the DC office is particularly impressive," said a client. "He has good technical knowledge, is responsive to clients and gets good results."
Led by veteran Harry Roper, Jenner & Block debuts in the patent contentious rankings this year. The group handles matters for Johnson & Johnson, The Dow Chemical Company and Nissan North America.