A writ of coram nobis can overturn a criminal conviction even after the sentence is completed if a fundamental error caused the conviction and no other remedy is available. Petitioners must show valid reasons for delay and continuing collateral consequences like deportation or loss of rights. This article explains eligibility, standards, procedure, and when coram […]
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What is the burden of proof for someone challenging an agency’s decision?
In most APA cases, the challenger bears the burden of proof and must show the agency action is unlawful under a deferential standard (often “arbitrary and capricious”). Courts generally presume the agency acted properly and review the administrative record rather than retrying facts. This article explains the main standards of review, common arguments, and when […]
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What innovations are occurring in pro bono legal services?
Pro bono legal services are innovating through remote delivery, AI-assisted intake/triage, and statewide online referral platforms that can cut screening time by 30–50%. These tools help match clients to volunteer attorneys faster, expand reach into rural areas, and streamline document assembly. This article covers key technologies, new service models, and ethical considerations shaping modern pro […]
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Criminal Contempt: Consequences of Disrespecting the Court
Criminal contempt can result in immediate sanctions, including up to 6 months in jail without a jury trial in many cases. Courts use it to punish willful disobedience of court orders or conduct that disrupts proceedings and threatens judicial authority. This article explains what qualifies as criminal contempt, typical penalties, and key defenses. The concept […]
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How are equal protection rights being interpreted in recent court decisions?
Recent decisions interpret equal protection rights through three main tests—strict scrutiny, intermediate scrutiny, and rational-basis review—depending on the classification at issue. Courts increasingly emphasize whether laws are facially neutral or show discriminatory intent and how government interests are justified. This article explains the latest trends across race, sex, education, and voting-rights cases. The interpretation of […]
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How are changes in civil procedure affecting case outcomes?
Recent FRCP amendments—most notably the 2015 proportionality changes to Rule 26 and the narrowed spoliation sanctions in Rule 37(e)—are measurably shifting outcomes by reducing discovery costs and limiting sanctions leverage. Courts are enforcing earlier case management and targeted ESI discovery, which can speed settlements or increase dismissal pressure. This article explains the key rule changes […]
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What are the current legal battles surrounding reproductive rights?
Since Dobbs (2022) overturned Roe, dozens of states have enacted or defended abortion bans and restrictions, fueling widespread litigation. Major battles include constitutional challenges in state courts, enforcement and emergency-care disputes, and ballot initiatives to expand or limit protections. This article surveys the leading cases, laws, and emerging trends shaping reproductive rights across the U.S. […]
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What are the key issues in housing law and affordable housing initiatives?
Key housing law issues include zoning restrictions, Fair Housing Act compliance, eviction and habitability rules, and financing tools that affect the 7.1 million affordable rental homes shortage for extremely low-income renters. Affordable housing initiatives center on LIHTC, vouchers, inclusionary zoning, and local permitting reform, often challenged by NIMBY opposition and disparate-impact claims. This article covers […]
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How are mass torts evolving in the face of new technologies?
Mass tort litigation is evolving as AI and e-discovery tools cut document review time by 50% or more in many large matters. These platforms enable faster case intake, claimant verification, and coordinated strategy across firms and jurisdictions. This article explains the key technologies driving the shift and how they’re changing mass tort practice. The landscape […]
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Key Legal Issues in the Rapidly Evolving Cannabis Industry
Cannabis is legal for adult use in 24 states (and D.C.) but remains illegal under federal law. This state-federal conflict drives major risks in compliance, banking access, taxation, and intellectual property. This article covers the core legal challenges and emerging regulatory trends shaping cannabis businesses nationwide. The cannabis industry faces a complex and rapidly changing […]
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What Legal Issues Are Emerging From Increased Social Media Use?
Increased social media use is driving 4 major legal issue areas: privacy/data security, defamation, intellectual property infringement, and consumer-protection/FTC compliance. Rapid posting, sharing, and targeted ads increase exposure to lawsuits, investigations, and takedown demands. This article explains the emerging risks and practical steps to reduce liability. The proliferation of social media platforms has given rise […]
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How are student loan laws changing to address the debt crisis?
By 2025, student loan law changes are expanding income-driven repayment and adjusting forgiveness pathways to reduce balances for millions of borrowers. Policymakers are also tightening oversight of servicers and targeting higher-education cost drivers. This article explains key federal and state legal updates affecting repayment options, forgiveness programs, and borrower rights. The landscape of student loan […]
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