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Understanding Washington’s Open Container Laws: Rights and Risks for Car Passengers

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Olympia, WA — In Washington, passengers enjoying a drink in a vehicle is a common scenario that often raises eyebrows and questions about its legality. With more people heading out on road trips or shorter drives, it’s important to understand what the law states to avoid any unwelcome surprises. Washington State has specific laws governing the consumption of alcohol within vehicles. According to state regulations, it’s illegal for passengers to consume alcohol in a vehicle. Known as an “open container law,” it applies to all vehicles on the road and aims to minimize distractions and … Read more

Federal Circuit Identifies Prejudicial Legal Error in Tamper-Resistant Food Container Patent Case

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Boston, Massachusetts – The Federal Circuit recently overturned a judgment of invalidity and ordered a new trial in the case of Inline Plastics Corp. v. Lacerta Group, LLC. The court determined that the district court’s jury instruction on objective indicia of nonobviousness was a prejudicial legal error. The case revolved around patents for tamper-resistant and tamper-evident food containers. In American civil litigation, jury instructions provide the legal rules and guidelines for jurors to follow when reaching a verdict. The judge’s role is to ensure these instructions accurately reflect the applicable law. Attorneys from both sides … Read more

Portland Firefighter Convicted of Kidnapping After Trapping Pot Thief in Cargo Container, Jury Decides

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A firefighter in Portland, Oregon has been found guilty of kidnapping after locking a thief in a cargo container. The jury reached their verdict in the case, which involved a stolen bag of marijuana. The incident occurred when the firefighter, whose identity has not been disclosed, discovered someone trying to steal the marijuana from his truck. In a bid to prevent the thief from getting away, he took matters into his own hands, locking the individual inside a cargo container. During the trial, the firefighter argued that he was acting in self-defense and to protect … Read more