Issue: Vol 163, Issue 7566

The legal forecast is pretty gloomy, with the occasional sunny spell, says Roger Smith

David Hertzell & Julia Jarzabkowski aim to fend off groundless IP threats

Julian Yew & Anna Henry examine the pros & cons of the forthcoming “protected conversations” law

Geraldine Morris assesses the implications of Prest on family law

Joyce hits home that crime doesn’t pay, notes Karen O’Sullivan

Do not delay in bringing judicial review proceedings, warns Nicholas Dobson

Court fees & rent deposits grab the headlines

R (on the application of Willford) v Financial Services Authority [2013] EWCA Civ 674, [2013] All ER (D) 115 (Jun)

Smith and others v Ministry of Defence; Ellis v Ministry of Defence; Allbutt and others v Ministry of Defence [2013] UKSC 41, [2013] All ER (D) 167 (Jun)

Fine & Country Ltd and other companies v Okotoks Ltd (formerly Spicerhaart Ltd) and another company [2013] EWCA Civ 672, [2013] All ER (D) 137 (Jun)