Haynes Boone Media Law Practice Group Chair Laura Prather was recently highlighted in a Q&A for the Texas Brief Newsletter from Bloomberg Law. Prather, who is known for her work in anti-SLAPP legislation, shares which cases and trends she has her eye on and the biggest challenges she is facing as a Texas lawyer today.
Read an excerpt of the Q&A below.
What’s a legal trend you’re watching this year?
Like many, I’m watching the impact of AI on substantive law — copyright, defamation, etc. — and the various cases against social media over the addictive nature of their algorithms. We are also seeing more anti-SLAPP laws being passed domestically and internationally.
What’s one potentially game-changing lawsuit in federal or state court that you’re watching next year?
The Lowery v. Mills case. A petition for certiorari will be filed in the near future.
It involves whether it’s considered a First Amendment retaliation claim if a public employer threatens to fire, reduce the pay, or demote a whistleblower unless the employee stops criticizing the government.
Ten courts of appeals have said yes, but the Fifth and Eleventh circuits disagree. It will be interesting to see if the US Supreme Court takes this case and its implications on public employee speech.
What’s most challenging about practicing law in Texas right now?
One of the most challenging and exciting things about practicing law in Texas — and generally — right now is building coalitions of diverse voices that all share at least one core belief and can work together to defend these rights in court or to effectuate change at a policy level.
Where’s the best BBQ in Texas?
I like Franklin best for BBQ, La Barbeque best for sausage, and LeRoy and Lewis for beef cheeks and pork shoulder. But you can’t go wrong with any of them!
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