February 18, 2026


Morning Docket Roundup: Judges Respond to Criticism, Law Firms Expand, and Legal Battles Heat Up

In a notable development, federal judges have been granted the prerogative to counteract what they deem as "illegitimate forms of criticism and attacks." This new ethical leeway, highlighted by the ABA Journal, aims to uphold the integrity of the judiciary amidst increasingly vocal public discourse.

Meanwhile, the commercial real estate scene is witnessing a surprising trend with law firms at the helm. Contrary to the anticipated downsizing due to AI integration, Linklaters has boldly increased its office space by nearly 50 percent, as reported by the New York Law Journal. This expansion suggests a robust future for legal professionals, despite the growing influence of technology in the industry.

Controversy stirs as the Trump administration faces a lawsuit for the removal of the Pride flag from the Stonewall National Monument, a site pivotal to LGBTQ rights. Critics argue that the act undermines the symbolic significance of the monument, equating it to mere commercialism, according to the New York Times.

The Justice Department is under scrutiny for what some defense lawyers are calling an abnormal approach to criminal charges, NPR reports. This shift in prosecutorial tactics has raised eyebrows and concerns about the future direction of federal law enforcement.

In regulatory news, the CFTC is defending its stance on prediction markets like Polymarket, amidst allegations of inadequate oversight purportedly benefiting entities with connections to the president’s son. CNBC's coverage suggests a complex intertwining of personal investments and regulatory decisions.

In a bizarre courtroom drama, a Texas judge has declared a mistrial due to a lawyer's attire, which was deemed inappropriate, sparking a debate on professional standards within legal environments, The Guardian reports.

Lastly, in a blend of pop culture and legal branding, Harvey, the legal services company, has partnered with the 'Suits' star whose character inspired its name. This move aims to leverage the dramatic flair of television to enhance its market presence, according to LawSites.

Each of these stories paints a picture of a dynamic landscape where law, culture, and technology intersect, shaping the contours of justice and professional practice in intriguing ways.