Appeals

Knox County Judge Steve Sword Appointed to Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals

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KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — In a notable advancement within Tennessee’s judiciary, Knox County Criminal Court Judge Steve Sword has been promoted to the state Court of Criminal Appeals. Governor Bill Lee announced Sword’s appointment this past Friday, signaling a significant step in the judge’s career, which began on the bench in 2011. At the time of his appointment, Sword was presiding over a vehicular homicide trial in the City County Building downtown, where he has developed a reputation for handling some of the region’s most challenging cases. Sword’s new role on the appellate court will have … Read more

Supreme Court Upholds Buffer Zone Laws for Abortion Clinics, Denies Opponents’ Appeals

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Washington, D.C. — The Supreme Court upheld laws that establish buffer zones outside abortion clinics, a decision affecting both clinic vigilance and access to reproductive services. These rules are designed to prevent harassment and ensure safe passage for patients seeking abortion services, as well as maintaining order outside medical facilities. The legal challenges dismissed by the court had been mounted by opponents of abortion, who argued that these buffer zones infringe upon their First Amendment rights to free speech and peaceful assembly. The zones typically prevent protesting within a certain distance from clinic entrances, an … Read more

Lynchburg Registrar Appeals Jury Decision, Challenges Judicial Limits

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In a series of updates from Virginia, various political, economic, and educational events are shaping the local agenda. In Lynchburg, a registrar has been ousted and now seeks to overturn a jury’s decision, citing judicial restrictions. Meanwhile, issues of governance and developmental projects also make headlines across the state, highlighting both progress and challenges in these communities. In Blacksburg, a member of the Town Council, Watson, has been formally censured by peers, reflecting ongoing tensions within the local government. Further east, in Chase City, the town manager has resigned amid council disputes regarding the future … Read more

Trump Administration Appeals Federal Court Ruling That Blocks Ending Birthright Citizenship

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Washington — The Trump administration has announced its decision to appeal a Maryland judge’s recent ruling that halted the enforcement of an executive order aimed at eliminating birthright citizenship for children born in the U.S. to parents who are not legally present in the country. This move is the administration’s latest effort in a contentious legal battle that has sparked nationwide debate and multiple lawsuits. The appeal, filed by government attorneys, targets a decision by U.S. District Judge Deborah Boardman, who last week issued a preliminary injunction against the executive order. Judge Boardman’s ruling, originating … Read more