The judge leapt at the opportunity to weigh in on Twombly pleading standards, taking less than four weeks to write an opinion that accepted an interlocutory appeal and--without merits briefing or oral argument--concluded the trial court could give a lot of leeway to plaintiffs alleging a price-fixing conspiracy.

But will this deal put a dent in the finances of former CEO Maurice "Hank" Greenberg? It depends on whom you ask.

Cite as: Columbus 95th St., LLC v. New York State, 113148/07, NYLJ 1202476739261, at *1 (Ap. Div., 1st, Decided December 28, 2010)vBefore: Luis A. Gonzalez, P.J

The Federal Circuit's chief judge argues in an op-ed column that judges should shift fees in abusive patent litigation "from the defendant to the troll." Also: a popular public radio program takes another look at patent trolls, and a documentary filmmaker files suit to challenge the copyright for "Happy Birthday to You."