February 17, 2026


Legal Tumult and High-Profile Lawsuits Dominate Today's Headlines

In a string of intriguing legal developments, a former law student faces serious repercussions after a hoax bomb threat led to a mass evacuation at the University of Reading. The student, whose actions disrupted the induction week activities, has been convicted, highlighting the severe consequences of such reckless behavior. [Read more at Legal Cheek](https://www.legalcheek.com/2026/02/expelled-law-student-convicted-of-hoax-bomb-threat-that-forced-reading-uni-evacuation-during-induction-week/)

Meanwhile, television personality and former judge Jeanine Pirro finds herself in a legal bind, not in the courtroom but on the slippery sidewalks of her hometown. Pirro is suing for a substantial $250,000 in damages following a slip and fall incident, a case she has decided to pursue in New York after facing challenges in D.C. [Read more at The Independent](https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/jeanine-pirro-lawsuit-hometown-ex-husband-b2919474.html)

In the academic sphere, a new federal cap on student loans has law schools and students across the United States on edge. The cap threatens to exacerbate the financial challenges of pursuing legal education, stirring concerns about access and affordability in the legal community. [Read more at Reuters](https://www.reuters.com/legal/legalindustry/us-law-schools-students-fear-rising-costs-new-federal-loan-cap-2026-02-17/)

Legal ethics come to the fore as a La Jolla attorney faces disbarment following an alleged harassment campaign against the popular legal influencer, "Law by Mike." This case underscores the growing tension between traditional legal practices and the new wave of digital legal influencers. [Read more at La Jolla Village News](https://timesofsandiego.com/crime/2026/02/12/la-jolla-attorney-disbarred-harassing-law-by-mike/)

The NFL is set to face a courtroom showdown over a discrimination claim after failing to push the matter into arbitration. This legal battle could have significant implications for how the league addresses future discrimination complaints. [Read more at Law360](https://www.law360.com/articles/2441836)

In the world of finance and celebrity, Steve Bannon and Boris Epshteyn face lawsuits over their involvement in a cryptocurrency promotion dubbed "Patriot Pay." The legal action casts a spotlight on the murky waters of celebrity-endorsed financial products and the responsibilities that come with them. [Read more at National Law Journal](https://www.law.com/nationallawjournal/2026/02/13/steve-bannon-and-trump-legal-adviser-sued-over-patriot-pay-crypto-promotion/)

Lastly, in a decision resonating with historical importance, a judge has cited George Orwell in a ruling against a bid by former President Trump to modify historical exhibits pertaining to slavery. This judicial stance reinforces the preservation of historical accuracy in public displays. [Read more at CNN](https://www.cnn.com/2026/02/16/politics/philadelphia-slavery-exhibits-judge-orders-return-orwell)

Today's legal landscape paints a vivid picture of the multifaceted nature of law and its profound impact on society, from educational institutions and historical narratives to personal injuries and the integrity of digital influence.