Related Practices
Related Industries
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Covington’s technology practice involves new ventures and established firms as they develop state-of-the-art technology. In this capacity, we serve as translators. We explain the regulatory regime to the innovators who are developing the new technology, and we discuss with regulators how this new technology does (or sometimes, does not) fit within existing regulatory schemes. In many instances, we have to work with both ends: we may advise a company to tailor the product somewhat to comply with certain rules, and we ask regulators to waive or amend their rules to enable break-through technology to get to market. We also recognize that one-company solutions are not always ideal, so we frequently work with other companies and trade associations on cross-industry solutions to vexing regulatory problems.
Representative Matters
- Broadcasters on DTV Transition. Covington has represented the broadcast industry and individual broadcasters and affiliate boards for nearly two decades on the incredible range of technical, legal and policy issues surrounding the transition to digital television. We helped negotiate the DTV standard, and devised the new frequency table. We worked closely at every step with the FCC’s engineers and with engineers across the television industry. We also worked to develop the new rules and legal requirements to accompany the detailed technical analysis.
- Microsoft. We represent Microsoft before the FCC on various issuing surrounding its Media Center and DRM products. We obtained FCC recognition of Windows Media Digital Rights Management software as a permissible means to handle digital content. We also represent the company in ongoing rulemakings and waiver petitions involving plug-and-play issues, including industry-wide efforts to resolve these issues.
- Specialty Equipment Manufacturers. We have long represented one of the leading distributors of televisions to the healthcare field on FCC compliance issues. When its leading manufacturer discovered problems complying with an FCC rule, we sought a waiver of the FCC’s Part 15 requirements for one of the leading TV set manufacturer in this market.
Accolades
- Chambers USA, leading Communications practice (2004-2007).
- Chambers USA, leading Communications Finance practice (2006).
- Chambers USA, leading Media and Entertainment practice (2006-2007).
- Practical Law Company, leading Communications practice (2005-2006).
- International Who’s Who of Business Lawyers, two attorneys recognized for Regulatory Communications (2005-2006).
- Our partners have significant experience outside of the practice ─ for example, on Capitol Hill, where they were deeply involved in the development of telecommunications legislation, and in the executive suites of major and highly visible media companies.
- Our partners have over the years held leadership positions in major associations in the media field ─ including the Federal Communications Bar Association, the International Radio and Television Society Foundation, the Media Institute and the Media Law Resource Center.
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