Penny M. Costa, Of Counsel

Defended one of the largest web podcasters in the United States in an action alleging copyright infringement arising in connection with the hosting of copyrighted third-party video content on commercial websites.

Ongoing prosecution of copyright infringement actions on behalf of the larger of the two American royalty distribution societies.

Obtained the dismissal, on demurrer, of claims for breach of contract, conversion, declaratory relief, and an accounting filed by an internationally acclaimed musician-songwriter against client royalty distribution society.

Obtained an order, following briefing and oral argument, granting client’s petition to stay arbitration in the New York Supreme Court of claims filed with AAA by an assignee and successor-in-interest to music royalty rights.

Defended a newspaper publisher in multiple actions alleging defamation, invasion of privacy and emotional distress. The cases were resolved favorably following the filing of anti-Slapp motions, whether by settlement or by judgment entered in the client’s favor with an award of attorneys’ fees.

Prosecuted a multi-count copyright action on behalf of a non-profit corporation that awards Board Certification in internal medicine to physicians. Obtained a default judgment against the infringer as a terminating sanction.

Represented the City of Los Angeles and the Office of the City Attorney in an action for retaliation and discrimination by a former deputy city attorney who had been terminated for unprofessional conduct following a Skelly proceeding. Obtained summary judgment on behalf of two high level public officials.