Law, disrupted

Law, disrupted
  • 4.8 (73)
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Law, disrupted is a podcast that dives into the legal issues emerging from cutting-edge and innovative subjects such as SPACs, NFTs, litigation finance, ransomware, streaming, and much, much more! Your host is John B. Quinn, founder and chairman of Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan LLP, a 900+ attorney business litigation firm with 29 offices around the globe, each devoted solely to business litigation. John is regarded as one of the top trial lawyers in the world, who, along with his partners, has built an institution that has consistently been listed among the “Most Feared” litigation firms in the world (BTI Consulting Group), and was called a “global litigation powerhouse” by The Wall Street Journal. In his podcast, John is joined by industry professionals as they examine and debate legal issues concerning the newest technologies, innovations, and current events—and ask what’s next?

  1. 2d ago

    FireAid Class Action Ended by Anti-SLAPP Motion

    John is joined by Robert M. (“Bobby”) Schwartz, partner in Quinn Emanuel’s Los Angeles office. They discuss the remarkable victory a Quinn Emanuel team led by Bobby won in the class action litigation against FireAid, the charitable effort organized to help victims of the January 2025 Los Angeles wildfires. While the fires were still burning, Steve Ballmer (owner of the LA Clippers NBA team) and his wife, Connie, helped organize benefit concerts at the Intuit Dome and the Forum and pledged to match contributions dollar for dollar up to $50 million. Working with Irving Azoff and Rick Caruso, the Ballmers raised more than $100 million for FireAid in less than two months. Foundations and nonprofit organizations were enlisted to identify recipients and distribute aid to affected communities. Media reports later questioned whether the money was reaching fire victims and suggested that donations might have been diverted to unrelated causes. FireAid commissioned an independent investigation that found no wrongdoing. By the end of 2025, more than $75 million had been distributed, with the balance scheduled for distribution during 2026. Nevertheless, a class action lawsuit was filed against FireAid, the Ballmers, Mr. Azoff, Mr. Caruso, and others, alleging that donors had been misled, fire victims had not received promised assistance, and FireAid had actually raised $800 million, leaving hundreds of millions of dollars unaccounted for. Rather than relying solely on a demurrer or challenging the class allegations, the defense brought an anti-SLAPP motion. SLAPP stands for “Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation.” An anti-SLAPP motion requires the defendant to prove that the actions the plaintiff’s claims are based on were protected by the First Amendment. Once a defendant makes that showing, the burden shifts to the plaintiff to produce admissible evidence establishing the prima facie elements of its claims. Here, the defendants’ theory was that soliciting charitable donations constituted protected speech on a matter of public interest and that the claims depended on allegedly false representations about how donations would be used. The court granted the motion, finding that FireAid’s actions were protected free speech and that the plaintiffs failed to meet their burden. The defendants then sought attorney’s fees. Although the court initially proposed reducing fees because six defense firms participated, Quinn Emanuel persuaded the judge to award all of its requested hours. No appeal followed, ending the litigation. FireAid ultimately distributed more than $100 million for fire relief. Podcast Link: Law-disrupted.fm Host: John B. Quinn Producer: Alexis Hyde Music and Editing by: Alexander Rossi

  2. Oct 1

    Kindleworth’s Blueprint for Building Law Firms

    John is joined by James Hacking, CEO and co-founder of Kindleworth. Kindleworth helps lawyers launch and operate specialized law firms by providing outsourced infrastructure, administration, and strategic support. Its clients are typically established partners from major U.S. firms, Magic Circle firms, or other elite firms who have substantial practices but want greater control over pricing, culture, compensation, or service delivery. Kindleworth has helped launch more than sixty firms over approximately fifteen years and currently provides ongoing support to about thirty. The process often begins before a lawyer decides whether to leave an existing firm. Kindleworth evaluates feasibility, financial projections, market positioning, staffing, locations, funding requirements, and expected profitability. If a launch proceeds, it handles entity formation, banking, financing, insurance, office space, branding, technology, and operational systems, allowing lawyers to leave their old firm on Friday and begin operating from the new platform on Monday morning. After launch, Kindleworth provides finance, billing, human resources, compliance, technology, operations, and strategic advice. This outsourced structure allows firms to avoid building large administrative departments while gaining access to specialized professionals. Confidentiality is protected through separate client technology environments, contractual protections, and segregated teams when firms operate in potentially overlapping markets. The model resembles managed service organizations (MSOs) increasingly discussed in the United States, although almost all states prohibit nonlawyers from directly owning law firms. In the United Kingdom, outside investment is permitted, enabling more direct capital relationships. Kindleworth also helps firms obtain external financing and has developed a relationship with Burford Capital, whose investment is supporting Kindleworth’s expansion and planned New York presence. The Kindleworth model may be particularly relevant as private equity explores U.S. legal services through MSO structures. Outsourcing can make economic sense even for substantial firms, including firms generating more than $50 million in revenue, because many may not need full-time senior finance, HR, compliance, and risk executives. Podcast Link: Law-disrupted.fm Host: John B. Quinn Producer: Alexis Hyde Music and Editing by: Alexander Rossi

  3. Sep 17

    Re-release: The Spectator Sport of Legal Journalism in the UK

    John is joined by Catrin Griffiths and Christian Smith, the Editor-in-Chief and Litigation Editor of The Lawyer. They discuss legal journalism in the UK, with John, Catrin, and Christian agreeing that UK legal reporting tends to be more analytical and critical of law firm strategy than its U.S. counterpart. They attribute this to the UK’s centralized legal market in London and a journalistic culture that places a strong emphasis on accountability and critical analysis. They explain how The Lawyer, originally a print magazine, has evolved into a digital platform that combines news, data, and insight to provide in-depth analysis of law firm performance and strategy. The publication now operates much like a financial news outlet dedicated to the legal sector, reflecting the industry’s significant contribution to the UK economy. Its coverage ranges from major legal trends and firm strategy to lighter stories about law firm culture. The conversation also explores the growing dominance of U.S. law firms in London. John, Catrin, and Christian note that American firms often outperform their UK counterparts, perhaps because of longer working hours and more streamlined management structures. Catrin explains that UK firms historically benefited from strong infrastructure and extensive global networks but now face challenges adapting to changing market conditions. They also discuss cultural differences, including the relatively early retirement age at many UK firms, compared with U.S. firms, where partners often continue practicing well into their 70s. Finally, Catrin and Christian discuss the importance of authenticity when law firms engage with journalists. They advise against relying on corporate jargon and instead encourage open, honest conversations. They conclude by noting that seemingly small or quirky stories about a firm’s culture can often reveal broader industry trends and resonate strongly with readers. Podcast Link: Law-disrupted.fm Host: John B. Quinn Producer: Alexis Hyde Music and Editing by: Alexander Rossi

  4. Sep 10

    Re-release: Inside Japan’s Evolving Legal Culture

    John is joined by Hidetaka Mihara, Senior Counsel at Tokyo International Law Office. Together, they discuss three major legal developments in Japan: (1) the criminal and civil litigation arising from the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster, (2) the rise of shareholder activism, and (3) Nippon Steel’s acquisition of U.S. Steel. On March 11, 2011, a massive earthquake and ensuing tsunami triggered the Fukushima nuclear disaster. Executives at the company that operated the nuclear power plant had been warned of tsunami risks years before the event, but did not report them to the government until days before the earthquake. The trial court found the executives not guilty of criminal negligence, reasoning that tsunamis of this size were so rare and that the cost of addressing the risk, cutting off electricity to the region while repairs were made, was so high that the company’s delayed report did not amount to negligence. Related civil claims against the government and management were also dismissed, with courts holding that neither breached their obligations under Japanese law. Despite some public criticism, most Japanese have moved on from the tragedy, focusing on rebuilding rather than retribution. The recent rise of shareholder activism in Japan marks a notable shift in a culture traditionally averse to corporate confrontation. This rise follows reforms in Tokyo Stock Exchange rules, greater emphasis on corporate governance, and changes in ownership thresholds that empower minority shareholders to propose changes.  One example is the Seven & i Holdings case, in which activists pushed for a corporate restructuring. While their proposal failed, their recommendations for improving the company were eventually adopted by management. Although shareholder litigation remains rare in Japan, shareholder proposals and negotiations have become increasingly effective, aided by the gradual unwinding of entrenched cross-shareholding relationships. Finally, Nippon Steel’s acquisition of U.S. Steel, which has been politically controversial in the U.S., is widely seen in Japan as a strategic and mutually beneficial partnership. Japan views the acquisition as a way to strengthen both nations’ competitiveness against Chinese and Indian steelmakers. Ultimately, the U.S. government approved the acquisition based, in part, on its obtaining “golden share” rights, including the right to block certain potential managerial changes at the company.   The conversation reflects how Japan’s legal and corporate culture is gradually adapting to global norms while maintaining its distinct approach to risk, accountability, and trust. Podcast Link: Law-disrupted.fm Host: John B. Quinn Producer: Alexis Hyde Music and Editing by: Alexander Rossi

  5. Sep 4

    Law, disrupted Mailbag: The Future of AI in Litigation, International Legal Practice, and Keys to a Successful Legal Career

    John is joined again by producer Alexis Hyde for a second mailbag episode of Law Disrupted. In it, John responds to questions submitted by listeners rather than conducting a traditional interview. Topics include the future demand for lawyers, artificial intelligence, international legal practice, career development, and the experiences that shape effective litigators. Despite AI’s growing ability to draft documents, analyze discovery, and perform other legal tasks, John expects the number of lawyers to increase over the next three years. Although AI might someday reduce human involvement in less complex legal fields, demand for junior lawyers has not yet declined at sophisticated litigation firms. At the highest levels of the profession, highly skilled lawyers remain essential. A law firm founded today should integrate an AI platform throughout its practice, with lawyers trained to become sophisticated users. Because existing legal technology does not always fit specialized litigation workflows, firms have an incentive to develop proprietary systems tailored to their work. Geopolitical tensions have also transformed international legal practice. Work in China has moved away from advising Western companies investing there and toward representing Chinese companies in disputes around the world. As the domestic Chinese economy has faced challenges, Chinese companies have increasingly looked outside China for growth. As Chinese companies expand their operations internationally, they encounter the same contractual, regulatory, and intellectual-property disputes faced by other global companies. Meanwhile, India and Japan have become major destinations for extensive private-equity investments, driven respectively by economic growth in India and undervalued assets in Japan. To be successful, a young lawyer does not need a single defining mentor. Young lawyers learn by observing talented colleagues and adversaries and by doing the work themselves. Remaining focused and competitive is key to a highly successful career. Litigation is an especially exciting field for young attorneys because every case requires learning about new industries, facts, personalities, and legal issues. John has had a wide variety of experiences outside of practicing law, including competing in the Ironman World Championship in Hawaii multiple times, owning a Michelin-starred restaurant and a museum, collecting art, and creating an artist residency program. Experiences from these activities have strengthened his litigation skills by expanding his knowledge, enhancing his ability to develop effective analogies and metaphors, and helping him connect with people. Finally, settlement decisions often reflect considerations beyond the legal merits. Reputational damage, adverse publicity, embarrassing disclosures, and the possibility that serious allegations will receive attention even if later dismissed can create substantial leverage and motivate parties to resolve otherwise defensible claims. Podcast Link: Law-disrupted.fm Host: John B. Quinn Producer: Alexis Hyde Music and Editing by: Alexander Rossi

  6. Aug 27

    Law, disrupted Mailbag: Litigation Philosophy and the AI Revolution

    John is joined by producer Alexis Hyde for a special mailbag episode of Law, disrupted. John responds to questions submitted by listeners rather than conducting a traditional interview. Topics include how to become a great litigator, what distinguishes Quinn Emanuel’s approach to litigation, and how artificial intelligence is transforming the legal landscape. Great litigators develop through experience and observation: working alongside accomplished lawyers, watching strategies develop, executing those strategies, and eventually teaching others. The progression resembles the medical maxim “watch one, do one, and teach one.” Quinn Emanuel’s litigation philosophy centers on achieving the best possible results, delivering value at a fair cost, and building long term relationships. The firm’s reputation as the “most feared” litigation firm is based on an annual survey of 350+ corporate general counsel conducted by independent consulting firm BTI. For each of the last five years, those surveys have identified Quinn Emanuel as the firm the general counsel would least want to face in litigation.  Aggression is not always the best litigation strategy. Depending on the case, restraint may be more effective. No matter which strategy applies, lawyers should seize the initiative, identify the issues that will ultimately decide the case before the opposition does, and focus discovery and strategy on those issues rather than wasting resources on matters that will not affect the outcome.  Artificial intelligence is the fastest-growing source of new litigation. Agentic AI raises questions about computer access, e-commerce, intellectual property, patentability, product liability, autonomous systems, mental-health harms, and responsibility for unpredictable machine-learning decisions. Data centers present a wide range of potential disputes involving financing, permitting, construction delays, and changing local restrictions. Recent litigation involving Perplexity and Amazon, a case in which Quinn Emanuel represented Perplexity, illustrates how existing computer-fraud statutes are being tested by new AI technologies. AI is not only transforming how law is practiced but in identifying claims. New services identify potential lawsuits by comparing regulatory requirements with public information and detecting possible violations. AI may also accelerate dispute resolution by giving parties earlier and more complete insights into evidence, risks, and case strengths, potentially encouraging earlier settlements. Podcast Link: Law-disrupted.fm Host: John B. Quinn Producer: Alexis Hyde Music and Editing by: Alexander Rossi

  7. Aug 21

    Perplexity Wins Landmark Victory Against Amazon at Intersection of Agentic AI and E-Commerce

    John is joined by Daniel C. Posner, a partner in Quinn Emanuel’s Los Angeles office, and Renita N. Sharma, a partner in Quinn Emanuel’s New York office. Together, they discuss the recent victory secured by a team led by John, Dan, and Renita in the Amazon v. Perplexity case before the Ninth Circuit. The case addressed how the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA) applies to agentic AI. Perplexity’s Comet browser includes an AI assistant that performs multi-step tasks for users, including shopping on Amazon. Amazon objected because purchases made through the assistant may bypass Amazon’s advertising and upselling opportunities. Amazon sued under the CFAA and the California Computer Data Access and Fraud Act (CDAFA). The CFAA is the primary federal anti-hacking statute. To establish a violation, a plaintiff must prove that a person intentionally accessed a computer without authorization, obtained information through that access, and caused the plaintiff to suffer losses of at least $5,000. The CFAA is also a criminal statute, so case law has emphasized that it must be construed narrowly. The CDAFA is substantially similar to the CFAA, except it does not require proof of $5,000 in losses. CDAFA and CFAA claims typically rise and fall together. Amazon moved for a preliminary injunction almost immediately after filing its complaint. Amazon argued that Perplexity intentionally accessed its computers without authorization after Amazon expressly told Perplexity not to send its agents to Amazon’s website. Perplexity responded that its servers never directly accessed Amazon’s servers. Instead, the Comet browser resides on the user’s computer and acts only when the user instructs it to perform a task. The user’s computer communicates separately with Amazon and Perplexity, much as a conventional browser, such as Apple’s Safari, facilitates access without Apple itself accessing the website. Perplexity also argued that it did not obtain any information from Amazon or cause any cognizable damages. Although the district court granted Amazon a preliminary injunction, the Ninth Circuit initially stayed and then reversed that decision, holding that Perplexity had not “accessed” Amazon’s computers within the meaning of the CFAA. The court examined the technical architecture of the Comet browser and the broader principle that agentic AI, however sophisticated, remains a tool operated by a person. Because the user directs the assistant, the user—not Perplexity or the AI itself—is the relevant actor. In light of its ruling on access, the Ninth Circuit did not need to decide whether any access was unauthorized, whether Perplexity obtained information from Amazon, or whether Amazon suffered cognizable damages. The decision is likely to become an important early precedent governing agentic AI. Future cases could raise additional issues as AI agents become more autonomous, circumvent safeguards, enter into contracts on unfavorable terms, cause tortious harm, or are jointly controlled by users and developers. The ruling could also have implications for journalists and researchers who use automated tools to gather publicly available information online. Podcast Link: Law-disrupted.fm Host: John B. Quinn Producer: Alexis Hyde Music and Editing by: Alexander Rossi

  8. Aug 13

    Re-release: From Provo to NEOM: A Lawyer’s Career in Higher Education

    John is joined by Michael K. Young, Professor of Law and former President of Texas A&M University, the University of Washington, and the University of Utah. They discuss Michael’s career in higher education, beginning with his years at Columbia Law School, including two and a half years as a visiting professor at the University of Tokyo, where he established the East Asian Legal Studies Center. The conversation then follows his service at the U.S. Department of State, where he negotiated treaties involving trade, international environmental law, human rights, and the terms under which Germany was reunified. They also discuss Michael’s tenure as Dean of George Washington Law School and the University of Utah, as well as his later roles as President of the University of Utah, the University of Washington, and Texas A&M University. Michael describes his current work at a research center preparing the entire educational system, from primary school through university, for NEOM, the futuristic megacity project in Saudi Arabia. Michael explains how his legal training helped him succeed in these leadership roles by maintaining a clear focus on the goals he was trying to achieve, the mission of each institution, and the importance of understanding both sides of every issue. He also shares several leadership lessons, including the need for leaders to genuinely listen, and demonstrate that they have listened, keep everyone focused on the institution’s mission, generously share credit, and take responsibility when things go wrong. Finally, John and Michael discuss the current controversies surrounding free speech on American college campuses. Michael shares his approach to handling volatile situations involving controversial speakers. Podcast Link: Law-disrupted.fm Host: John B. Quinn Producer: Alexis Hyde Music and Editing by: Alexander Rossi

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4.8
out of 5
73 Ratings

About

Law, disrupted is a podcast that dives into the legal issues emerging from cutting-edge and innovative subjects such as SPACs, NFTs, litigation finance, ransomware, streaming, and much, much more! Your host is John B. Quinn, founder and chairman of Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan LLP, a 900+ attorney business litigation firm with 29 offices around the globe, each devoted solely to business litigation. John is regarded as one of the top trial lawyers in the world, who, along with his partners, has built an institution that has consistently been listed among the “Most Feared” litigation firms in the world (BTI Consulting Group), and was called a “global litigation powerhouse” by The Wall Street Journal. In his podcast, John is joined by industry professionals as they examine and debate legal issues concerning the newest technologies, innovations, and current events—and ask what’s next?

Information

  • Creator
    Law, disrupted
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    230
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Law, disrupted
  • Show Website
    Law, disrupted

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