Big Law Redefined

From QOZ 1.0 to 2.0: Capital, Zones, and What Changed

The Qualified Opportunity Zone program is entering a new era. In this episode of Greenberg Traurig's Big Law Redefined Podcast, guest host Hayden Dempsey, chair of the firm's Florida Government Law and Policy Practice, sits down with shareholder Jim Lang, who leads GT's Qualified Opportunity Zone national team, to break down the sweeping changes brought by the One Big Beautiful Bill and what they mean for developers, investors, and fund sponsors across the country. Jim and Hayden walk through the most consequential shifts from QOZ 1.0 to QOZ 2.0, starting with the program's new permanent status, which replaces what had been a framework set to expire on December 31, 2026. They discuss the rolling five-year tax deferral replacing the hard-coded deferral deadline, the redesignation process launching July 1, 2026, and why this round of zone selections will be more targeted and deliberate than the rushed 2018 designations. The conversation also covers the newly created Qualified Rural Opportunity Fund category and its significantly enhanced tax incentives, including a 30% basis step-up after a five-year hold compared to the standard 10%, as well as a reduced substantial improvement threshold for rural properties. Jim and Hayden also address how governors are approaching the designation process, why advocacy at the state and local level matters more than ever, and how local governments can align their land use and permitting frameworks to attract private capital into designated zones. Finally, they talk about the new reporting and compliance requirements coming under 2.0 and the critical transition period between now and December 31, 2028, when the old and new zone maps will overlap and key questions about cross-investment between 1.0 and 2.0 tracks remain pending further guidance. Tune in!

Navigating the Shifting Federal Employment Law Landscape: What Employers Need to Know Now

In part one of this Big Law Redefined Podcast episode, Greenberg Traurig labor and employment shareholder Johnine Barnes is joined by Glenn Spencer, Senior Vice President of the Employment Policy Division at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, for a wide-ranging conversation on the most significant federal employment law developments shaping the landscape today. * The discussion covers the EEOC's dramatically shifted enforcement priorities under Chairwoman Lucas, including new scrutiny of employer training programs, hiring practices, and workforce policies. * The conversation then turns to the Department of Labor's proposed reinstatement of the Trump-era independent contractor rule, what it means for businesses - particularly in the gig economy - and why the comment period deadline matters. * The episode also examines the current state of the NLRB, the anticipated rollback of Biden-era precedents once a quorum is restored, the Cemex decision, and the surprising bipartisan momentum behind the Faster Labor Contract Act, which could force employers into binding arbitration on first union contracts. In part two, GT shareholders Ray Jackson, Shirin Afsous, and Nicholas Sanfilippo deliver a practical breakdown of rapidly evolving state-level employment law developments in Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia, covering minimum wage increases, sweeping changes to non-compete enforceability, new paid leave requirements, pay transparency obligations, and emerging employee protection legislation. Whether you are an in-house counsel, HR professional, or outside advisor, this episode provides the actionable intelligence you need to stay ahead of the curve.

Making History: Inside the First Jury Trial Victory in the Texas Business Court

The latest of the Big Law Redefined Podcast, Texas Business Court Watch episode is now live. Host Craig Duewall, Co-Chair of the GT Texas Litigation Group, sits down with colleagues Roland Garcia and Cara Kelly - the lead attorneys on the trial team that won the first-ever jury trial in the Texas Business Court. The case, an ownership dispute over a multi-billion-dollar crude oil delivery system and marine terminal project in South Texas, was tried before Judge Adrogué in the 11th Division of the Texas Business Court. Roland and Cara take listeners behind the scenes of this landmark case, covering the background and jurisdiction of the Texas Business Court, the unique logistical challenges of litigating in a court without a dedicated physical courtroom, and what it means to try a complex commercial case in a forum that prioritizes efficiency, judicial sophistication, and rigorous legal analysis. From arguing motions in the dark after the courthouse lights shut off at 10 p.m., to pivoting trial locations after a pipe break sealed off their planned courtroom, the team shares compelling stories about navigating uncharted territory. The episode also offers insights for in-house counsel and litigators considering the Texas Business Court as a forum.

Cartel Investigations: Behind the Scenes of Antitrust Enforcement in Latin America

In this eye-opening episode of Competition Law in the Americas, host Miguel Flores welcomes Viviana Blanco Barboza, President of Costa Rica's Coprocom, and Victor Meyer, Mexico's Director General for Cartel Enforcement, for a candid conversation about the realities of cartel investigations in Latin America. From myth-busting to headline cases in rice, gas, buses, and football, Viviana and Victor share the drama, lessons, and detective work that define their roles. The episode dives into creative enforcement tactics, the challenges of international evidence sharing, and practical compliance advice for companies. Hear real-life success stories, cautionary tales, and insider tips on how businesses can stay cartel-free—and what not to do during investigations.

A Look-Ahead at the Landscape for Small Business Federal Contractors

The second episode of Big Law Redefined podcast's DC Everywhere miniseries is now live. Host Shomari Wade speaks with colleagues Elle Ross and Tim McLister about the current challenges and opportunities for small business federal contractors. They discuss increasing regulatory scrutiny—including new cybersecurity requirements like CMMC, changes to the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), and heightened enforcement, especially around compliance and fraud. The guests highlight the importance of early preparation for new rules, careful attention to supply chain issues, and strategic planning for mergers and acquisitions. They share insights about staying informed, being proactive about compliance, and addressing potential issues before they become problems. This episode offers essential guidance for small businesses navigating today's complex federal contracting environment. Tune in!