Overview
John Major is a litigator whose practice focuses on complex civil litigation, with an emphasis on representing internet and technology companies. His recent representations include matters for Airbnb, Block and Snap.
John has significant experience in representing technology companies in a wide range of disputes, including experience in litigation involving the Communications Decency Act and in representing technology companies in disputes involving platform liability, trade-secret issues and compliance with novel regulatory requirements.
John has also published multiple articles regarding platform liability and Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, including an overview of efforts to amend Section 230 and an article discussing non-Section 230 defenses to claims against platforms.
Capabilities
Practices
Industries
Experience
Technology Litigation
Snap in MDL and JCCP proceedings alleging that prominent social media platforms cause addiction and other harms.
A social media platform in obtaining dismissal of First Amendment and state law claims in an action brought by a Russian news agency concerning the platform’s removal of its content following the Special Counsel’s investigation of foreign interference in the 2016 presidential election.
Snap in obtaining dismissal of multiple lawsuits alleging that Snapchat app encouraged harmful conduct by users.
Snap in litigation alleging trade secret and patent claims relating to its “Snap Map” feature.
Airbnb in obtaining dismissal of a putative class action claiming that Airbnb facilitated violations of San Francisco’s short-term rental laws. The dismissal was affirmed on appeal.
Airbnb in litigation challenging municipal regulations of its operations and platform under the Communications Decency Act, Stored Communications Act, First and Fourth Amendments and related state-law causes of action.
Airbnb in litigation brought by a real estate investment trust company alleging that Airbnb interfered with its lease agreements and aided and abetted trespass.
Lyft in compelling arbitration of claims relating to use of the Lyft app.
A technology start-up in litigation regarding alleged breaches of contract and a former employee’s claimed entitlement to additional equity.
A start-up gaming company regarding pre-litigation claims of copyright infringement.
Complex Civil Litigation
John also litigates high-stakes disputes in a variety of other contexts, representing individuals, law firms, utility companies, home builders and other major corporations in their most important and challenging cases.
More
- Board member, Kidspace Children’s Museum, Pasadena, California
- Vice Chair of the board of Neighborhood Legal Services of Los Angeles County
- Board of Councilors Clerkship Committee, University of Southern California Law School, which encourages USC Law students to seek judicial clerkships
- Homeowners Committee, Frank Lloyd Wright Building Conservancy
Publications
- “Platform Immunity Without the Communications Decency Act,” Daily Journal, June 4, 2020.
- “What’s Next for Section 230? A Roundup of Proposals,” Lawfare, July 29, 2020.
