Private Treble Damage Actions Under Federal Antitrust Law

Under federal antitrust law, persons and companies harmed by anticompetitive conduct may seek an award of triple their damages, an injunction, and costs of the action (including attorney fees) against a party that violates federal antitrust laws. For example, price fixing or an agreement among competitors on the price they will charge is considered a per se illegal violation of Section 1 of the Sherman Act, 15 U.S.C.S. § 1, that the government may prosecute as a felony. As a further deterrent to such activity, those harmed by the violation may seek treble damages and an injunction.

Securities Law> Additional Offerings, Disclosure & the Securities Exchange Act of 1934> Issuer Reports & Recordkeeping

(Fair Disclosure Requirements for Public Companies)

Consumer Law

(Proper Disposal of Consumer Information)

Antitrust & Trade Law: Clayton Act

Section 3 of the Clayton Act, 15 U.S.C.S. § 14, makes illegal certain distribution practices. Generally, Section 3 of the Clayton Act makes it illegal to enter into tying arrangements, exclusive dealing contracts, or requirements contracts if such arrangements or contracts tend to lessen competition.

The Duty of Directors and Officers Regarding Corporate Opportunities

The corporate opportunity doctrine provides that corporate directors and officers have an obligation not to take personal advantage of opportunities that may be to the advantage of their corporation. The doctrine follows from the duty of loyalty of directors and officers to the corporation.