December 23, 2025


Legal Roundup: Gummy Bears, Retaliatory Measures, and Resilience Training in the Spotlight

From gummy bear disputes to high-profile legal battles, the legal world is buzzing with intriguing cases and developments. Here’s a roundup of some noteworthy events capturing the legal landscape's current pulse.

JP Morgan is currently embroiled in a sticky situation over, surprisingly, gummy bears. According to Law360, the financial giant has reluctantly agreed to cover various expenses for Charlie Javice, among them a curious $530 bill for gummy bears, sparking discussions about the boundaries of corporate reimbursements.

In a case that echoes the darker side of politics, a former CIA chief, targeted by former President Trump’s retaliation campaign, is seeking judicial intervention to prevent the Department of Justice from assigning his case to what he perceives as a biased judge. AP News reports that this high-stakes maneuver underscores the ongoing tensions between Trump’s influence and the judicial system's independence.

Meanwhile, the legal firm Freshfields is taking proactive steps to prepare the next generation of lawyers for the demanding world of corporate law. Legal Cheek highlights the firm’s new initiative to provide "resilience" training to Gen Z students, aiming to equip them with the mental and emotional tools needed for their future careers.

In an unexpected twist in his legal saga, Sam Bankman-Fried, the founder of the now-defunct FTX, is fashioning himself as a jailhouse lawyer, according to the New York Times. Bankman-Fried’s new role involves advising fellow inmates on legal matters, showcasing his pivot from cryptocurrency guru to legal aficionado behind bars.

Celebrity legal battles also continue to make headlines. People magazine detailed the reflections of legal teams representing Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, shedding light on the intricacies and personal toll of their year-long legal ordeal.

In an important verdict impacting the academic sphere, a judge has recently blocked an effort by Trump to freeze federal funding to Harvard University, as per Law.com. This decision is a significant setback for Trump’s campaign against institutions he deems politically opposed to his views.

Lastly, the legal sector's physical landscape is also evolving. The NY Law Journal reports on the new office of King & Spalding in NYC, which emphasizes collaborative spaces, signaling a shift towards more dynamic and interactive work environments in Biglaw.

These stories provide a snapshot of the current legal environment, highlighting the complex interplay of law, politics, and society. As these cases unfold, they will undoubtedly influence the broader legal and cultural discussions.