Barriers

Pioneering Judge Shatters Barriers and Inspires Generations in Fresno County Legal Community

by

FRESNO, Calif. – Joan Schofield, a prominent judge in Fresno County who shattered glass ceilings throughout her groundbreaking career, passed away at the age of 99. Schofield’s life was marked by remarkable achievements, serving as an icon in the legal field. Born in Fresno, California, Schofield began her journey towards a career in law at a time when women were often overlooked in the profession. Despite facing discrimination and resistance, she persevered and became a trailblazer in the quest for gender equality within the legal system. Throughout her tenure, Schofield broke numerous barriers and set … Read more

The Inequity of Jury Pay: Toronto Lawyer Shines Light on Financial Barriers to Jury Service

by

Toronto, Canada – People in Ontario, Canada, are being excused from jury duty due to financial constraints, according to criminal defense lawyer Sid Freeman. Freeman, who has witnessed this issue in her 30 years of trials, argued that the poor, especially those facing lengthy trials, are rendered ineligible to serve on juries. This lack of socioeconomic diversity results in an unrepresentative jury system that fails to provide equal justice for all. Ontario’s jury pay is notoriously low compared to other provinces in Canada. Jurors receive no compensation for the first 10 days of service, $40 … Read more