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Crunchfish Receives Patent in Taiwan for Offline Payment Breakthrough

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Taiwan has officially granted a patent to Crunchfish Digital Cash AB, a Sweden-based fintech company, for its cutting-edge offline payment solution. The newly awarded patent (No. I888477) covers Crunchfish’s “Reserve–Pay–Settle” technology that enables digital payments to occur securely without an internet connection. The patent will remain valid until January 2041.

The announcement comes after similar patents were approved in the United States in July 2024 and in the European Union, with a decision to grant issued in December 2024 and confirmed in June 2025.

🔗 Full story on TradingView via Reuters

What Is Crunchfish’s Patent About?

Crunchfish’s patented system allows payments to be made even when devices are offline. The process works in three stages:

  1. Reserve: The payer locks funds for the transaction.
  2. Pay: The transaction is digitally signed offline.
  3. Settle: Once the payer or payee reconnects to the internet, the transaction is settled online.

This approach solves a major challenge in digital payments by providing resilience in areas with limited connectivity or during network outages. It also supports Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) initiatives where offline capability is crucial.

📘 For more on Crunchfish’s Digital Cash platform, visit the official site.

Expanding Global IP Footprint

Taiwan becomes the third major jurisdiction to grant Crunchfish a patent for its offline payment system. The company’s technology is now protected in:

  • 🇺🇸 United States – Patent granted in July 2024
  • 🇪🇺 European Union – Patent finalized in June 2025
  • 🇹🇼 Taiwan – Patent issued in July 2025

Patent applications are also pending in India and China. A hearing in India is expected later in July 2025.

Leadership Statement

Joachim Samuelsson, CEO of Crunchfish, commented on the milestone:

“Securing the patent in Taiwan confirms the global value of our innovation. This technology addresses the future of payments, especially in challenging environments.”

📢 See more from Crunchfish in their newsroom

Why This Matters

The patent is crucial for:

  • Boosting financial inclusion in offline areas
  • Enhancing payment reliability during internet failures
  • Supporting CBDC rollouts with offline functionality
  • Protecting Crunchfish’s innovation in key Asian markets

The development also increases Crunchfish’s leverage in licensing and future partnerships.

Disclaimer:

This article is based on information available as of July 12, 2025. All IP rights belong to their respective owners. Please consult crunchfish.com and official IP databases for verification and updates.

India’s IP Laws Struggle to Protect Traditional Cultural Expressions Amid Rising Cultural Appropriation

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India’s diverse cultural heritage faces increasing threats from misappropriation. Yet, its legal framework remains unequipped to protect Traditional Cultural Expressions (TCEs). Experts warn that India’s current intellectual property (IP) laws fail to address the communal and evolving nature of these traditions.—What Are Traditional Cultural Expressions?Traditional Cultural Expressions (TCEs) include folk art, music, dance, crafts, and rituals passed down by indigenous communities. They reflect generations of collective creativity. But they often lack a single author or fixed form—two key criteria under India’s copyright and trademark laws. Learn more about TCEs from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).—

Legal Gap in India’s IPR Framework

India’s Copyright Act, 1957 protects works with identifiable authors and finite durations. But TCEs are communal, anonymous, and timeless. As a result, communities cannot claim legal ownership. Trademarks and patents also focus on commercial inventiveness and brand identity—not traditional heritage. Even when designs or art styles are used commercially without consent, communities have limited legal options. A 2023 study published by Harvard ILJ emphasized the mismatch between modern IP tools and ancient traditions.—

The Case for Geographical Indications (GIs)

India has made progress with Geographical Indications (GI) under the GI Act, 1999. Art forms like Madhubani paintings, Warli motifs, and Channapatna toys have secured GI status.But GI protection only applies when a product is clearly linked to a geographical origin. It doesn’t cover broader cultural styles or evolving oral traditions. Moreover, many communities lack resources to register or enforce these rights.Explore registered Indian GIs on the Geographical Indications Registry website.—

Defensive Measures So Far

To prevent bio-piracy and knowledge theft, India established the Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL) in 2001. It catalogs ancient medicinal knowledge to block false patent claims.Experts now recommend creating a similar database for TCEs. Such a registry could document cultural expressions and acknowledge community origins, discouraging unauthorized use.—

Demand for Sui Generis Protection

Lawmakers and scholars are pushing for a sui generis (custom) law that gives collective and perpetual rights to communities. The law would include:Community ownership and control

Licensing systems for commercial use

Protection against distortion or misuse

Moral rights for attribution

Proposed drafts like the Traditional Knowledge (Protection and Promotion) Bill have surfaced in recent years. However, none have been enacted yet.More on this from Know Law.—

Recent Examples of Cultural Appropriation

In 2023, a major fashion label used tribal designs from Odisha without credit or compensation. Similarly, Bollywood films have used folk music and dances with no benefit to the original communities.These incidents highlight how vulnerable communities are to commercial exploitation. They also fuel calls for urgent legal reform.—The Way Forward

India must strengthen its IP laws to protect its living cultural heritage. Experts recommend:1. Enacting sui generis legislation 2. Building a national TCE registry 3. Supporting community-led IP enforcement 4. Raising awareness through legal aid and education 5. Aligning with global efforts under WIPO frameworks–

Conclusion

India is rich in traditions, but poor in legal tools to protect them. Without timely action, cultural appropriation will continue unchecked. Stronger laws and grassroots empowerment are essential to safeguard the identity and dignity of indigenous communities.—

Disclaimer:

This article is a journalistic synthesis based on publicly available legal sources and policy documents. It is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.

Delhi High Court Orders Record ₹290 Crore Security Deposit in Patent Case, Strengthens India’s Patentee-Friendly Image

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In a landmark decision, the Delhi High Court has directed South Korea-based Ace Technologies Corp to deposit ₹290 crore as a security deposit in a major patent infringement dispute with Canadian company Communication Components Antenna Inc (CCA). This marks the largest security deposit ever awarded in an Indian intellectual property (IP) case.The dispute involves an alleged infringement of CCA’s Indian patent related to telecommunications antennas. The court, while recognizing the seriousness of the claims, took the rare step of ordering a substantial interim monetary deposit. This is aimed at safeguarding the interests of the plaintiff, given that the Korean firm has no significant assets in India.The security deposit amount is roughly 25% of the total damages claimed, which stand at ₹1,160 crore. The court made its decision under Section 151 of the Civil Procedure Code (CPC), using its inherent powers to ensure that any potential final judgment in the case is enforceable.This move follows earlier orders of injunction and smaller deposits against Ace Technologies. The court also noted a 65% drop in Ace Technologies’ valuation and its limited Indian operations, which raised concerns over the enforceability of any final award.

🛡️ India’s Growing IP Enforcement Strength

Legal experts view the ruling as a significant boost to India’s reputation as a patentee-friendly jurisdiction. The order aligns with recent trends of Indian courts, especially the Delhi and Madras High Courts, offering financial remedies and interim safeguards in IP matters, particularly when foreign entities are involved.This case could become a benchmark for future patent disputes, especially in sectors like telecom, electronics, and pharmaceuticals, where foreign companies often face enforcement challenges.

📈 Implications

Strengthens judicial support for patent holders.Encourages foreign innovation and investment in Indian markets.Signals a shift toward global IP standards in enforcement practices.Provides confidence to patentees in seeking interim financial protections, not just injunctions.The court has granted Ace Technologies a four-week deadline to comply with the order. Failure to deposit the amount may lead to further legal consequences, including potential contempt proceedings or escalation of enforcement actions.

📌 Conclusion

This historic decision not only offers relief to the plaintiff but also sends a strong signal to global innovators: India is committed to upholding patent rights and is ready to enforce them through financial guarantees, even at interim stages of litigation.

HMEL Secures Three Patents and Unveils Dual-Transport Pipeline Pigs

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HPCL-Mittal Energy Ltd (HMEL) has reached a major milestone in the oil and gas sector. The company recently won three key patents. Alongside, it introduced the world’s first dual-transport crude pipeline pigs.

Pipeline pigs are tools used inside pipelines for cleaning and inspection. HMEL’s innovation allows these pigs to transport and manage two different crude oil types simultaneously in the same pipeline.

What Makes Dual-Transport Pipeline Pigs Unique?
Unlike traditional pigs, HMEL’s dual-transport pigs have advanced sensing and navigation systems. These features help clean pipelines and inspect them while carrying two different crude grades separately.

This technology boosts pipeline efficiency. It reduces the need for multiple pipelines and lowers operating costs. Plus, it ensures safer and smoother crude transport.

Details of the Three Patents
HMEL’s patents cover critical innovations:

The design of the dual-transport pig system

The sensor and navigation technology inside the pigs

The process for switching between crude types during transport

These patents secure HMEL’s leadership in pipeline technology and protect their intellectual property.

Benefits of This Innovation
This new system offers several advantages:

Operational efficiency: Handle multiple crude grades in one pipeline

Cost savings: Reduce the need for cleaning and extra pipelines

Enhanced safety: Automated sensors reduce manual checks and risks

HMEL’s Innovation Journey
HMEL is a joint venture between Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd and Mittal Energy Ltd. The company has been focusing on innovation and growth in recent years.

In 2024-25, HMEL achieved record polymer sales of over 2 million tonnes. The company also won two prestigious awards at the Asian Oil & Gas Awards 2024, highlighting its commitment to safety and sustainability.

Industry Impact and Future Plans
Experts see this patent and technology as a game-changer for pipeline operations globally. The ability to transport multiple crude grades safely in a single pipeline could reduce costs and increase flexibility for many operators.

HMEL plans to deploy this technology on its 1,017 km pipeline running from Gujarat to Punjab. There are also plans to license this innovation to other companies worldwide.

Further research and development will focus on integrating AI, digital tools, and green energy technologies like hydrogen.

Conclusion
HMEL’s breakthrough with the dual-transport crude pipeline pigs and three patents marks a key advance in pipeline engineering. This innovation promises greater efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and safety in crude oil transport.

As the energy industry evolves, HMEL is positioning itself as a leader in cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices.

Apple Patents Stylus That Draws in Air – No Screen or Surface Needed

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Apple has secured a groundbreaking new patent for a next-generation stylus. Unlike traditional Apple Pencils, this new device doesn’t require a screen or even a surface to operate. According to the patent filing, the stylus is capable of writing or drawing in mid-air using a combination of advanced sensors and optical tracking technology.

This innovation could reshape how we interact with digital devices across the Apple ecosystem.

How the Air-Draw Stylus Works
The newly patented stylus is packed with cutting-edge tech. It uses a blend of:

Optical flow sensors: Similar to those in computer mice, these detect movement in 3D space.

Built-in cameras or infrared sensors: These track positioning and tilt.

Pressure-sensitive tip: Detects when the stylus touches or hovers above a surface.

Motion sensors and accelerometers: Help log strokes, speed, and direction.

Triangulation from external devices: iPhones, iPads, or Vision Pro could help track the stylus in real time using external cameras or signals.

This powerful combination allows the stylus to operate up to 10 cm above a surface, capturing movement and gestures precisely.

Potential Uses for the Stylus
Apple’s air-drawing stylus could unlock several exciting applications:

Draw or write in mid-air
Users can sketch freely without touching any surface. The content appears directly on a connected screen.

Turn any surface into a canvas
Tables, walls, or even paper could serve as drawing platforms.

3D object creation
Ideal for designers and developers working with AR or VR, allowing users to build or sketch in 3D space.

Mixed reality integration
With devices like the Vision Pro, the stylus could be used for more immersive interactions and spatial computing.

Why It’s a Big Deal
This patent pushes Apple deeper into the world of spatial computing. A stylus that works without a touchscreen removes barriers between creativity and technology. It gives users more freedom to interact, design, and work from anywhere.

For creative professionals, educators, and developers, this could be a game-changer.

It also aligns with Apple’s growing ecosystem of interconnected devices—especially as the company explores more applications in AR/VR and spatial interfaces.

Still Just a Patent—For Now
It’s important to note that this stylus is not a product yet. Apple often patents experimental technologies that never reach the market. However, the detailed design and potential use cases suggest that this concept is part of a broader strategy.

The tech giant may be preparing to expand its input devices to meet the future of immersive computing.

Conclusion
Apple’s new stylus patent opens the door to a future where drawing and writing happen in mid-air. No screens. No surfaces. Just pure interaction in space. If this device becomes a reality, it could revolutionize the way we use styluses and redefine digital input forever.

Stay tuned for more updates as Apple continues to innovate in the world of spatial computing.

MS Dhoni Faces Legal Opposition Over ‘Captain Cool’ Trademark Application

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Former Indian cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s move to trademark the nickname “Captain Cool” has hit a legal hurdle. A Delhi-based law firm, KAnalysis Attorneys at Law, has officially opposed his application before the Indian Trade Marks Registry.

Trademark Application Under Fire

Dhoni filed the application for “Captain Cool” under Class 41, which includes entertainment, sports training, and cultural activities. The application was initially submitted on June 5, 2023, and it was advertised in the Trade Marks Journal on June 16, 2025.

However, within the legal window of 120 days, the law firm filed an opposition under Section 21 of the Indian Trade Marks Act, 1999.

Grounds for Opposition

The opposition is based on four major grounds:

  1. Procedural Irregularities:
    The application was first filed as “proposed to be used” but later amended to claim use since 2008. According to the law firm, Dhoni’s team failed to provide documentary proof such as invoices, promotional material, or usage evidence.
  2. Lack of Commercial Evidence:
    The law firm alleges that Dhoni has not demonstrated any actual commercial use of the term “Captain Cool” for services under Class 41.
  3. Generic Nature of the Phrase:
    The term “Captain Cool” is widely used in the sporting world. The opposition argues that it is descriptive and not distinctive, even citing other athletes like Arjuna Ranatunga who were referred to by similar names in the past.
  4. Improper Acceptance by Registry:
    The firm questions the trademark registry’s decision to accept the application without issuing required rectification notices and despite unresolved prior entries.

What Lies Ahead?

This legal challenge now triggers formal proceedings. Both parties will need to submit evidence, arguments, and attend hearings. If Dhoni cannot prove the distinctiveness and commercial use of “Captain Cool,” the application may be rejected.

On the other hand, if the opposition fails or is withdrawn, Dhoni could receive exclusive rights over the nickname.

Background and Branding Potential

MS Dhoni is widely known by the nickname “Captain Cool” due to his calm demeanor during high-pressure matches. Fans have long associated the term with him. Securing the trademark would enable Dhoni to use it for merchandise, sports academies, media projects, and more.

The move is seen as part of a broader trend among celebrities to monetize their personal brands. Examples include Michael Jordan’s “Air Jordan” and Cristiano Ronaldo’s “CR7”.

Conclusion

While Dhoni’s “Captain Cool” tag is beloved by fans, the current legal dispute highlights the complexities of celebrity nickname trademarks. For the trademark to succeed, Dhoni must now convince the registry that “Captain Cool” is uniquely associated with him in a commercial sense.

Disclaimer

This article is based on publicly available information and legal filings. It does not constitute legal advice. All opinions and interpretations expressed herein are for informational purposes only.

PG College Professors Receive Patent for Innovative EV Battery Design — Know the Key Features

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In a significant step toward technological innovation and environmental sustainability, two professors from PG College, Firozabad, have been granted a patent for their advanced electric vehicle (EV) battery design. This design aims to improve safety, efficiency, and durability in EV batteries, potentially marking a major breakthrough in India’s green mobility sector.Meet the Innovators: Prof. N.K. Tiwari and Dr. J.P. SharmaThe patent has been awarded to Prof. N.K. Tiwari of the Physics Department and Dr. J.P. Sharma from the Chemistry Department. The two academics collaborated to develop a next-generation battery design that addresses critical issues faced by conventional EV batteries.Key Features of the Battery Design1. Fire-Resistant Structure – The battery is designed to prevent fire hazards due to overheating or internal short circuits.2. Extended Backup Time – It provides longer battery life compared to traditional EV batteries.3. Fast Charging Capability – The design supports significantly faster charging cycles.4. Eco-Friendly Materials – The battery uses components that are safer for the environment and reduce toxic emissions.

Words from the Inventors

Prof. Tiwari explained, “We developed this battery keeping India’s climate and traffic conditions in mind. The goal is to make a product that is not only safe and efficient but also suitable for Indian roads and EV systems.”

National Recognition

The patent has drawn attention at the national level, earning the professors accolades from both academic and scientific communities. The college administration also lauded the achievement, calling it a moment of pride that could inspire startups and industries working in EV technology.

⚠️ Disclaimer:

This article is based on publicly available information (source: Patrika News). The facts have been adapted for clarity and originality. Readers are advised to consult official patent documentation or experts for technical validation.

Garmin’s New Patent Hints at Wearable Tech for Monitoring Hydration and Hematocrit Levels

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Garmin, the global leader in wearable fitness technology, is pushing the boundaries of health tracking. A newly published patent reveals that the company is working on a novel method to monitor hydration levels and hematocrit concentration using optical sensors. This breakthrough could redefine how smartwatches assess real-time health.

Optical Tech Behind the Innovation

The patent, granted in the U.S., details a system based on pulse spectroscopy. This is an advanced version of photoplethysmography (PPG), a light-based method already used in many smartwatches for heart rate and oxygen tracking.

The system uses near-infrared light wavelengths—specifically around 850 nm and 1000 nm. These wavelengths penetrate the skin and allow for a more accurate read on blood volume and tissue characteristics. Garmin’s system measures pulsatile volume changes in blood vessels compared to surrounding tissue. These variations are then analyzed to determine hydration and hematocrit levels.

What is Hematocrit?

Hematocrit means the % of RBC in the blood. It plays a critical role in oxygen delivery. Abnormal levels can signal dehydration, anemia, or overtraining. Until now, measuring hematocrit typically required invasive lab tests. Garmin’s wearable method could make this data accessible to everyday users and athletes alike.

Hydration Tracking Reimagined

Unlike current hydration reminders based on time or estimated sweat loss, Garmin’s patented method could track actual hydration changes in the body. This can be a game-changer for endurance athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and even those with medical conditions sensitive to fluid levels.

Users could receive alerts like:
“Your hydration is 4% below optimal,”
rather than generic prompts like “Time to drink water.”

Potential Applications

Endurance training: Prevent dehydration and monitor red blood cell health.

Recovery tracking: Detect overtraining early through hematocrit changes.

Health management: Monitor real-time hydration during illness or travel.

General wellness: Track water needs more scientifically than manual logging.

Timeline for Release?

While the technology is promising, a patent does not confirm an imminent release. Garmin will need to conduct clinical trials, ensure regulatory approvals, and optimize sensor calibration for various skin types. Experts suggest it could take 12–24 months before these features debut in consumer devices.

If integrated, it will likely appear first in Garmin’s premium models like the Fenix, Forerunner, or Epix lines.

Disclaimer:

This article is based on publicly available information from Garmin’s recent patent filing. The features discussed are conceptual and may not reflect final products. Garmin has not officially announced any product with this capability as of now.

IG Drones Secures India’s First Patent for Indigenous Defence Drone Simulator

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In a landmark achievement for India’s defence and aerospace technology sector, IG Drones has been granted a patent for its indigenously developed defence drone simulator — the first of its kind in the country. This breakthrough not only showcases the nation’s growing technological self-reliance but also positions IG Drones at the forefront of next-generation military training systems.

The simulator, which gained national attention when it was showcased by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the Defence Expo 2022, has been entirely conceptualized, designed, and developed within India. It aims to provide high-fidelity, immersive training to personnel across the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, and paramilitary forces, enabling them to conduct drone operations in realistic, high-risk simulated environments.

Speaking on the achievement, IG Drones founder and CEO, Bodhisattwa Sanghapriya, described the patent as a “proud declaration of India’s technological resurgence.” He credited the success to the innovation-friendly environment under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership and reiterated the company’s commitment to advancing the country’s defence capabilities through indigenous technology.

“Our simulator is a cutting-edge system that will transform the way defence forces are trained in drone operations,” Sanghapriya stated. “By simulating real combat scenarios in a safe and controlled environment, we are drastically reducing operational risks and costs, while also enhancing mission readiness.”

Advanced Features Driving Technological Excellence
The state-of-the-art simulator is packed with sophisticated features, including:

AI-Powered Systems: Adaptive artificial intelligence allows for dynamic scenario generation and realistic enemy behaviour, helping trainees respond to unpredictable situations.

Physics-Based Simulation Engine: Real-world physics are accurately replicated, giving users an authentic flying and combat experience.

Real-Time Terrain Modelling: The system includes live terrain rendering to mimic India’s diverse geographic conditions — from mountainous regions to coastal zones and urban warfare settings.

Training in GPS-Denied Environments: The simulator supports operations in GPS-denied zones, critical for modern-day electronic warfare scenarios.

Multi-Drone Mission Capability: Personnel can train for complex operations involving coordination between multiple unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), enhancing collaborative tactics and situational awareness.

Strategic Implications for Indian Defence
The development is expected to significantly reduce India’s reliance on foreign training systems and simulators, aligning with the country’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India) initiative. By offering a secure and cost-effective alternative to imported solutions, IG Drones’ simulator represents a major leap in indigenous defence manufacturing and training infrastructure.

Moreover, the patent solidifies IG Drones’ position as a key contributor to India’s military modernization efforts. With drone warfare becoming increasingly vital in contemporary defence strategy, such indigenous tools will play a crucial role in preparing Indian forces for future conflicts.

A Milestone for ‘Make in India’ in Defence
This patent marks not just a technological innovation but a broader policy success under India’s defence indigenization efforts. The government’s push for local innovation and production in the sector appears to be bearing fruit, with startups like IG Drones leading the charge.

With this achievement, India joins a small group of nations capable of independently developing and patenting advanced defence simulation technologies. The success of this simulator is expected to open up new avenues for exports and global collaborations in the defence tech domain.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is based on publicly available sources and official statements released by IG Drones. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the content, the publisher does not take responsibility for any discrepancies or subsequent changes to the facts as presented. This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, technical, or investment advice. Any views or quotes attributed to individuals are presented as per their public statements and do not reflect the opinions of the publisher.

Bombay High Court Rules on Bollywood Song Copyright Infringement: Legacy Music Rights Cover Digital Platforms

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In a significant judgment concerning copyright ownership of iconic Bollywood songs, the Bombay High Court has dismissed a lawsuit filed by the daughter of late filmmaker O.P. Ralhan against FMCG giant Adani Wilmar Ltd and others. The plaintiff, Rupali P. Shah, had challenged the continued commercial use of musical works from seven Hindi films produced between 1963 and 1983, alleging copyright infringement.

Background of the Case

Rupali Shah approached the court claiming ownership of music rights to the films Phool Aur Patthar, Talash, Hulchul, Bandhe Haath, Paapi, Spy in Rome, and Return of Mr. Superman. She alleged that the original rights assigned decades ago only included limited usage formats—such as gramophone records—and did not authorize distribution through digital platforms like streaming services or online videos.

The defendants, including Adani Wilmar and other music companies, argued that the rights had been validly and permanently assigned in earlier agreements. They contended that the assignment covered “any and every means whatsoever,” thereby including present and future technologies not known at the time of execution.

Court’s Verdict

Justice Manish Pitale of the Bombay High Court ruled in favor of the defendants, interpreting the assignment clauses broadly. The court held that even though the original agreements referred specifically to gramophone records and similar physical formats, the wording also clearly permitted exploitation through “any and every means whatsoever”—a phrase the court deemed expansive enough to include evolving formats like digital and online media.

The judge emphasized that the purpose of such contracts is to ensure commercial use of creative works across technological advancements unless explicitly restricted.

Legal Reasoning

Justice Pitale noted that contractual clauses must be interpreted in light of the parties’ intent and the technological foresight available at the time. The court stated that the assignment’s language was unambiguous and allowed for modern-day commercial use. Therefore, no infringement occurred, and the rights holders’ licenses remain valid in perpetuity.

Significance of the Ruling

This verdict reaffirms that older copyright agreements with broadly worded clauses can still be enforceable in the digital era. The decision provides legal clarity for companies using vintage content, as long as their rights are clearly defined in contracts. It also serves as a precedent for similar copyright infringement disputes involving legacy works and new-age media formats.

Disclaimer

This article is based on publicly available court records and news published on LiveLaw.in. It has been rewritten for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. All names, references, and legal interpretations are drawn from verified sources at the time of publication. For professional legal advice, please consult a qualified attorney.