Two specifics identified have been Jacobs’ use of Wizards travelling on trains (used in several Potter books), and parts of the plot in the ‘Goblet of Fire.’ The wizard’s contest, helpers in the bathroom, and the rescuing of hostages from half-human, half-animal creatures are plot devices used in both books.
Rowling has said the claims are “unfounded” and “absurd”, stating she has never even read Jacobs’ work. “The fact is I had never heard of the author or the book before the first accusation by those connected to the author’s estate in 2004; I have certainly never read the book.”
Because of the involvement of Rowling, the suits initial £500 million amount is projected to be changed to “a billion-dollar case”.