In the intricate world of law schools and legal firms, drama unfolds not just in courtrooms but within the institutions themselves. A notable instance is a law professor embroiled in a divorce that has escalated to a Title IX complaint against a prominent law school. Allegations of a sham investigation by the school point to deeper issues within legal academia. The details are still unfolding, and the school has expressed readiness for a looming court battle. More on this can be found [here](https://abovethelaw.com/2025/12/top-law-school-accused-of-sham-title-ix-investigation-in-wake-of-professors-divorce/).

Meanwhile, the legal industry is witnessing generous moves, as McKool Smith announces supersized bonuses for its associates, setting a buoyant tone amid the often-grim news of layoffs and cutbacks in other firms. Details about this financial boon are available [here](https://abovethelaw.com/2025/12/this-firm-is-keeping-it-kool-with-supersized-associate-bonuses/).

In geographical shifts, Biglaw firm Fennemore Craig is making headlines with its strategic move to Texas, promising its associates not only career growth but also an enriched cultural experience, including the state’s famed barbecue. More on their relocation can be read [here](https://abovethelaw.com/2025/12/another-biglaw-firm-takes-the-texas-plunge/).

In a lighter vein, the realm of sports and law intersect oddly as a college quarterback calls upon former President Trump to use his influence to expand the football playoffs—an unusual and legally misguided request that highlights a questionable understanding of governmental powers. The full story is available [here](https://abovethelaw.com/2025/12/college-quarterback-asks-trump-for-executive-order-expanding-playoffs-in-case-youre-wondering-about-the-quality-of-civics-education/).

On a regulatory note, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is scrutinizing the American Bar Association’s (ABA) accreditation process, linking it to the soaring costs of law school and framing it as a consumer protection issue. This critique, however, is suspected by some to be influenced more by administrative vindictiveness than by fiscal responsibility. Details on this development can be found [here](https://abovethelaw.com/2025/12/ftc-blames-high-law-school-costs-on-aba-accreditation/).

Each of these stories, from personal legal battles to regulatory scrutiny, illustrates the diverse and dynamic nature of legal issues affecting academia and the broader legal community today.