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Apple can’t patent touchscreen interface
An IP Australia delegate has shot down Apple’s application to patent a touchscreen interface used on its electronic devices, calling the invention a “logistical scheme” for organising media files rather than a technological innovation. 
Ex-CEO won’t claim ‘primary responsibility’ for Zambrero’s success
Mexican fast food giant Zambrero has settled misleading and deceptive conduct claims brought against ex-CEO Stuart Cook, who has agreed to refrain from representing that he is “primarily responsible” for the chain’s success. 
Fees, commission to eat up half of $40M settlement in RCR Tomlinson class action
A judge has approved a $40 million settlement in a shareholder class action against collapsed engineering firm RCR Tomlinson, with almost half of the settlement to go towards a funder’s commission and legal fees. 
Silk Norman O’Bryan can’t appeal findings of fraud in Banksia class action
Unable to convince an appeals court that a common law right of appeal exists, disgraced former barrister Norman O'Bryan has failed in his challenge to findings of fraud in a judgment stemming from the Banksia class action saga.
Ord Minnett loses wealth adviser’s case over wage entitlements
Ord Minnett must pay years of wages and other entitlements to a wealth adviser who was only remunerated by commission payments, after a judge found he was covered by the finance industry award, in a decision that could reverberate throughout the industry. 
‘We’re not a legal aid agency’: Judge says directors can’t rep investment firms
A judge has scorned a bid by the directors of John Bridgeman and JB Markets to represent the companies in a case brought by investment fund Benjamin Hornigold, suggesting the companies seek pro bono or community legal assistance.
RAMS mulls cross-claim against franchisees in class action
Westpac subsidiary RAMS has flagged a cross-claim against disgruntled franchisees who say their agreements were terminated without proper cause, citing possible breaches of the National Credit Act. 
Former Cranbrook teacher sues after student allegedly blackmailed her for nude photos
A former maths teacher at exclusive Sydney school Cranbrook who alleges she was blackmailed by a student has filed proceedings alleging breaches of the Fair Work Act by her former employer.
$8.8B Sigma, Chemist Warehouse merger raises competition concerns: ACCC
The ACCC has flagged competition concerns about drug supplier Sigma Healthcare's proposed $8.8 billion reverse merger with Chemist Warehouse, saying the tie-up could harm independent pharmacies and lessen competition in pharmacy retail.
Ashurst adds two partners to Perth team
Ashurst has lured two partners from competing firms to join its Perth office, bolstering its restructuring and investigations offerings for clients in the energy sector.