Judge Denies Donald Trump’s Request to Delay Hush-Money Trial, Clearing Path for Former President’s Prosecution

The hush-money trial involving former President Donald Trump is set to proceed as scheduled in Manhattan, New York, after his request for a delay was denied by a judge on Wednesday. Trump had sought to postpone the trial until the Supreme Court rules on his immunity from prosecution for alleged official acts during his presidency. The Supreme Court is expected to hear arguments on the case, but a ruling may not be issued until June. With the judge’s ruling, one of the final obstacles to the first criminal prosecution of a former U.S. president has … Read more

Federal Appeals Court Rules Iowa’s “Ag Gag” Laws Constitutional, Clearing the Path for Enforcement

DES MOINES, Iowa — A federal appeals court has ruled that two of Iowa’s “ag gag” laws, which impose penalties on individuals who trespass on agricultural property with the intention of causing financial harm, are constitutional. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit announced its rulings on Monday, reversing a lower court decision in both cases. A third lawsuit is still pending. The rulings suggest that these state laws may soon become enforceable. However, an attorney for one of the plaintiffs expressed confidence that opponents would prevail upon appeal to the U.S. Supreme … Read more

Judge Approves $6 Billion Settlement in 3M Earplug Lawsuits, Clearing Path for Compensation to Veterans

MIAMI, FL – A $6 billion settlement has been approved by Judge Rodgers in the 3M earplug lawsuits involving service members who claimed the earplugs were defective. The settlement includes a plan to issue $1 billion in unregistered stock as part of the payment. The stock’s value will be determined using a weighted average method commonly used by regulators. An investment manager and adviser will be employed to reduce investment risks as the stock is issued in tranches. In addition to the settlement, 3M has contributed $250 million to the Qualified Settlement Fund, which will … Read more