In the Wake of Storm Havoc: Lawsuit and Executive Order Shape Uncertain Future for Western North Carolina’s Forest Management Plan

Asheville, NC — The future of the once-celebrated plan to manage Western North Carolina’s national forests has grown uncertain. The strategy, formulated over the last ten years to enhance the ecological integrity of the Pisgah and Nantahala national forests, is now clouded by a recent lawsuit, a presidential directive to boost timber production, and extensive damage from Hurricane Helene. Finalized in 2023, the plan was aimed at maintaining healthy forests, ecosystems, and watersheds. However, project-level actions carried out under this plan, including various logging initiatives, are now under scrutiny and subject to change. These shifts … Read more

Unveiling North Carolina’s Great White Shark Laws: Insights from Local Fishermen on Their Monumental Catch

Raleigh, North Carolina — The capture of a great white shark off the coast of North Carolina has reignited discussions about the intricate legal framework protecting these apex predators. Recent scrutiny surrounds the measures taken during a significant catch by local fishermen, underlining the rigorous planning and meticulous handling that these activities demand. Great white sharks, renowned for their size and power, are protected under various national and international regulations. In the United States, they are listed under the Endangered Species Act, which mandates specific guidelines for their treatment, including prohibitions on hunting and capturing … Read more

South Carolina’s Top Tourist Cities Sue Major Rental Platforms Over Unpaid Taxes and Fees

Charleston, SC — A coalition of South Carolina’s most popular tourist cities, including Charleston, Columbia, and Myrtle Beach, has filed a lawsuit against several major online travel companies. The municipalities contend that these firms have neglected to remit local accommodation taxes and, in some instances, business license fees collected on their platforms from both rental hosts and guests. At the heart of the litigation is the allegation that these digital platforms failed to forward taxes they collected, thereby depriving the municipalities of critical revenue streams intended for local infrastructure and services. This lawsuit illustrates a … Read more

Exploring the Unique Reach of the Fourteenth Circuit Solicitor’s Office Across South Carolina’s Lowcountry

Serving a sprawling expanse in South Carolina, the Fourteenth Circuit Solicitor’s Office stands out as the principal legal prosecution authority across a uniquely combined region encompassing Allendale, Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, and Jasper counties. This area, commonly referred to as the Lowcountry, is renowned for its historical significance and geographic beauty, covering an impressive 3,200 square miles. This office is particularly notable for being the only prosecutorial entity in South Carolina dedicated to serving a five-county circuit. This structure requires a broad and well-coordinated approach to legal affairs within these jurisdictions, ensuring that legal standards and … Read more