Attorney Articles
Law360 Features Article by Cahill and Bialek on the SEC’s Changing Approach to NFT Regulation
November 17, 2025 - Law360
John Cahill handles a broad range of matters with a concentration in the evolving fields of digital assets, blockchain technology, and emerging technologies. He monitors legal and industry developments in cryptocurrency, blockchain, and artificial intelligence to ensure clients remain compliant with the constantly shifting regulatory framework. John’s practice includes advising clients on regulatory compliance, data privacy, and the intersection of technology and intellectual property law, including issues related to copyright, trademark, and the right of publicity. In addition, he guides clients through disputes and litigation involving digital assets, including claims of misappropriation, fraud, breach of contract, and the enforcement of smart contract and other contractual rights.
Before joining Wilson Elser, John spent two years at Chubb Insurance, working on cyber law, corporate law, and insurance law matters. While at Chubb, he contributed to developing best practices for incident response, forensic investigations, system restoration, and compliance with reporting and notification obligations following cybersecurity incidents. Earlier in his career, John worked on a statewide political campaign and a presidential campaign, as well as with All American Games, LLC, where he led national event initiatives, including the formal selection process for the U.S. Army All-American Bowl.
Digital Assets, Litigation & Emerging Technologies
John has been active in the blockchain space since 2018, when he developed a strong interest in Bitcoin mining. Since then, his practice has evolved to include advising blockchain-based companies, digital asset platforms, and others operating at the forefront of decentralized technologies. He counsels clients on entity registration and intellectual property protection tailored to innovative business models and is well-versed in drafting various agreements, including nondisclosure agreements, licensing agreements, and partnership contracts.
John takes a practical, forward-looking approach to helping clients assess legal exposure, protect digital rights, and adapt to the evolving regulatory landscape. He provides strategic guidance on smart contracts, digital intellectual property, cybersecurity, and the legal structure of digital asset projects. His experience in launching and advising on digital initiatives informs his ability to support clients at every stage, from formation and compliance to dispute resolution and litigation. John also advises clients on the broader legal implications of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, privacy, intellectual property, and name, image, and likeness rights. His work reflects a comprehensive understanding of the legal and operational challenges facing companies in the digital and decentralized economy.
General Casualty
John deals with a myriad of complex legal issues in the general liability sector. He provides his clients with a high level of responsiveness and personalized attention to assist in risk and crisis management at the pre-litigation phase of potential claims. John also uses his attention to detail to zealously advocate for his clients in matters that proceed to litigation. He has obtained many favorable resolutions, and has authored numerous winning dispositive motions. John’s clients include construction firms, commercial and residential property owners and management companies, restaurants and amateur athletic associations.
Jana Farmer (Partner-White Plains, NY), Pat Lawless (Partner-New York, NY) and John Cahill (Associate-White Plains, NY) secured summary judgment in a Little League matter pending before the New York Supreme Court, Suffolk County on the eve of mediation. The plaintiff, a spectator at our client town and Little League franchise baseball game, was struck by a foul ball from another field. She alleged a concussion, TBI and other neuropsychological symptoms as a result. Throughout discovery, Jana, Pat and John established that the plaintiff was a dedicated “baseball mom” who regularly attended professional games and watched baseball on TV. She was aware of the risks of being hit by foul balls. The court noted that our clients had provided adequate protective screening and were able to demonstrate through an experienced baseball field design expert that the protections they offered exceeded industry standards.
Jana S. Farmer, John P. Cahill and Patrick J. Lawless
John Cahill handles a broad range of matters with a concentration in the evolving fields of digital assets, blockchain technology, and emerging technologies. He monitors legal and industry developments in cryptocurrency, blockchain, and artificial intelligence to ensure clients remain compliant with the constantly shifting regulatory framework. John’s practice includes advising clients on regulatory compliance, data privacy, and the intersection of technology and intellectual property law, including issues related to copyright, trademark, and the right of publicity. In addition, he guides clients through disputes and litigation involving digital assets, including claims of misappropriation, fraud, breach of contract, and the enforcement of smart contract and other contractual rights.
Before joining Wilson Elser, John spent two years at Chubb Insurance, working on cyber law, corporate law, and insurance law matters. While at Chubb, he contributed to developing best practices for incident response, forensic investigations, system restoration, and compliance with reporting and notification obligations following cybersecurity incidents. Earlier in his career, John worked on a statewide political campaign and a presidential campaign, as well as with All American Games, LLC, where he led national event initiatives, including the formal selection process for the U.S. Army All-American Bowl.