Circuit

Landmark Ruling: Fourth Circuit Determines Indictment Not Considered a ‘Claim’ Under Lawyer’s Liability Policy

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Columbia, MD – In a recent decision, the Fourth Circuit ruled in favor of Wiley’s clients, stating that a federal indictment with a criminal forfeiture allegation does not qualify as a “claim” under a law firm’s professional liability policy. The court argued that a forfeiture allegation does not meet the requirements of a “written demand” as outlined in the policy’s definition of a claim. The case involved an insured attorney who sought coverage for a Department of Justice subpoena and subsequent criminal indictment. The indictment charged the attorney with conspiracy, money laundering, and forfeiture related … Read more

Derrick Lefler Steps Up to Fill Void: Aiming for the Circuit Judge’s Seat

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CHARLESTON, West Virginia – Derrick Lefler has officially announced his candidacy for the vacant Circuit Judge’s seat in West Virginia. The seat became available after the retirement of Judge John Doe, creating an opportunity for Lefler to pursue his legal career aspirations. Lefler, a respected attorney with extensive experience in civil litigation, has built a strong reputation for his dedication to justice and fairness in the legal system. His decision to run for the Circuit Judge position was met with enthusiasm from the legal community and local residents. Throughout his career, Lefler has demonstrated a … Read more

California’s Gun Carrying Law Blocked Again by 9th Circuit Court of Appeals: Public Spaces Still Free for Firearm Holders

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SACRAMENTO, California – A California law that would have prohibited residents from carrying firearms in most public spaces has been temporarily blocked by the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals. The court ruled against the decision made last week to allow the law to go into effect in 2024. The law, known as SB2 and signed by Governor Gavin Newsom in September, aimed to ban Californians from carrying guns in 26 types of public places including parks, sports stadiums, hospitals, and houses of worship. It also introduced new guidelines for obtaining a concealed carry weapons permit, … Read more

Local Attorney Brennan Keeler Appointed as Judge for the 19th Judicial Circuit by Governor DeSantis

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HOBE SOUND, Fla. – Governor Ron DeSantis has appointed attorney Brennan Keeler as a judge for the 19th Judicial Circuit in Hobe Sound. Keeler, who is based in Hobe Sound, has a background in criminal prosecution and legal counsel on the Treasure Coast. This appointment comes after the retirement of former Circuit Court Judge Robert Belanger, who had held the seat for nearly two decades. Before his appointment, Keeler represented the Palm Beach County police officers’ union. His career history, as detailed in his application to the nominating commission of the 19th Judicial Circuit, shows … Read more