Appellate

Tributes Pour In for Appellate Judge Higbee, Esteemed Former Mass Tort Judge, as He Passes Away at 66

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ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — Appellate Judge Marie M. Higbee, a prominent figure in New Jersey’s legal landscape, has passed away at the age of 66. Renowned for her significant contributions to mass tort law, Higbee’s career left a lasting impact on the state’s judicial system. Judge Higbee served as a Superior Court judge in Atlantic County before being appointed to the Appellate Division. She became known for her thoughtful rulings in high-profile cases, often navigating complex legal issues that would shape precedents in mass tort litigation. Throughout her distinguished career, Higbee was widely recognized for … Read more

Remembering Appellate Judge Higbee: A Pillar of Justice in Atlantic County Passes Away at 66

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ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — The legal community is mourning the loss of Appellate Judge Higbee, who passed away at the age of 66. Known for her significant contributions to mass tort litigation in Atlantic County, she leaves behind a legacy of dedication to justice and an indelible impact on the community. Judge Higbee, whose career saw her navigate complex legal challenges, became a prominent figure in the Circuit Court, particularly in the realm of mass tort cases. Her tenure was marked by her commitment to fair adjudication and her firm yet compassionate demeanor in the … Read more

Texas Appellate Court Orders New Trial for Judge Hensley, Challenging Reprimand Over Same-Sex Wedding Refusal

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AUSTIN, Texas — A Texas appellate court has granted a new trial to Judge Dianne Hensley, who faced scrutiny for her refusal to officiate same-sex weddings. The Third Court of Appeals has ruled that Hensley can advance her legal challenge against the State Commission on Judicial Conduct (SCJC). This ruling follows a prior decision by the Texas Supreme Court, which sent the case back to a lower court in June 2024. The Supreme Court directed the lower court to examine Hensley’s argument that the SCJC’s public reprimand infringed upon her deeply held religious convictions. Hensley’s … Read more

Appellate Court Confirms Even-Year Election Law, Paving the Way for 2025 Implementation

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A recent ruling by an appellate court in New York has upheld a law requiring elections to be held in even-numbered years, a decision that is expected to take effect for the 2025 voting cycle. This law, which proponents argue will increase voter turnout and participation, affects local elections across the state. The court’s decision supports legislative efforts to streamline the electoral process by aligning local elections with statewide and federal elections. Supporters of the law believe that this alignment could lead to higher voter engagement, as citizens are more likely to go to the … Read more