1. Trump’s defamation claim

Panorama is the BBC’s investigative documentary series on worldwide issues. In 2024, it aired a documentary that included an edited clip of a Donald Trump Speech. The way the clip was cut implied that Trump had directly encouraged violence. This misleading edit has recently come to light, triggering the resignation of the BBC’s chief executive, Tim Davie. In addition, Trump is threatening a defamation claim worth between $1-5 billion.

This news story reflects a changing attitude towards misinformation online. Organisations are becoming far less tolerant of reputational harm, especially where misinformation or selective editing is involved. As a result, law firms are seeing increased work in two key practice areas: Litigation and Private Client.

For Litigation, we may see more defamation claims, emergency injunctions, and settlement-driven strategies as companies try to control reputational fallout. For Private Client, this is particularly relevant to ultra-high-net-worth individuals, whose public image is closely tied to their commercial value.

2. First Brands’ bankruptcy and alleged fraud

In September, American auto parts company First Brands filed for bankruptcy. The company had $12 billion in total liabilities (formed primarily of corporate debt) yet only $12 million in cash. Filing for bankruptcy prevented lenders from removing cash from the business and gave the company time to stabilise its financial position.

Earlier this month, First Brands sued its founder, Patrick James, alleging he used company funds for personal spending, including a private chef and personal trainer. He is represented by Quinn Emanuel, a firm known for complex commercial litigation. First Brands sought an injunction to freeze his bank accounts, but a US bankruptcy court refused. Injunctions are considered an “extraordinary remedy,” and the court held the threshold was not met at this stage.

This news story connects directly to a law firm’s Restructuring & Insolvency practice. Lawyers advise directors, lenders, and stakeholders as the bankruptcy progresses. It also engages Fraud & Financial Crime teams, who handle allegations of misconduct, asset misuse, and director liability.