Gibson Dunn Out of Helicopter Copyright Dispute Due to Conflict

Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP is disqualified from representing MD Helicopters Inc. in a copyright dispute because the law firm’s representation of Aerometals Inc. in several matters between 2002 and 2005 created a conflict of interest that can’t be cured, a California federal court said.

Manufacturer MD Helicopters alleges that Aerometals’ status as a government contractor allowed it to access MD Helicopters’ drawings for spare and replacement helicopter parts and use them in the civilian market.

Gibson Dunn likely possesses confidential and possibly privileged information from the prior Aerometal matters, requiring disqualification, Judge Troy L. Nunley of the U.S. District ...