Constitutional

Former Member of Boulder Police Panel Files Lawsuit Alleging Violation of Constitutional Rights

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BOULDER, Colo. – A former member of the Boulder Police Oversight Panel has filed a federal lawsuit alleging that her removal by the City Council violated her constitutional rights. Lisa Sweeney-Miran, who was appointed to the panel in January 2023, claims that her dismissal was unjust. The lawsuit asserts that Sweeney-Miran’s removal violated her rights to free speech and due process. It further alleges that the City Council disagreed with her viewpoints and silenced her as a result. Sweeney-Miran’s appointment to the panel had faced opposition from community members who believed she was biased against … Read more

Montana Medical Malpractice: The Devastating Reality of Capped Damages and Constitutional Rights

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HELENA, Montana – Medical malpractice victims in Montana face significant challenges in seeking compensation for their injuries. Despite being awarded substantial damages by a jury, these victims may only receive a fraction of the amount due to a legislative cap imposed since 1995. The cap limits non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of consortium, to just $250,000. This cap has raised concerns about constitutional rights and access to justice for victims of medical negligence. Under the current legislation, an injured plaintiff may be awarded millions of dollars in damages for … Read more

President Bola Tinubu Nominates 11 Justices to Supreme Court, Ignites Debate on Constitutional Fulfillment

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ABUJA, Nigeria – President Bola Tinubu’s nomination of 11 justices to the Supreme Court, increasing the number of judges to 21, has been met with varying reactions. Legal practitioner Okanlawon Gaffar believes that Tinubu’s actions merely fulfill the constitutional requirements and are necessary for Nigeria’s democratic growth. The Senate approved the nominees in December, aligning with the constitutional mandate. However, stakeholders have shared differing opinions on whether Tinubu should be commended for his appointments. Gaffar emphasizes that the effectiveness of the judiciary lies not solely with the president’s nominations, but also with the other branches … Read more

Threat to Hong Kongers’ Right to Legal Counsel: Troubling Cases Highlight Erosion of Constitutional Safeguards

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HONG KONG (AP) — Recent developments in Hong Kong suggest that the right to access legal counsel is being eroded in the national security sector of the police force. The erosion of this important right, guaranteed by the Bill of Rights Ordinance and the Basic Law, is a cause for concern. According to Article 11 (2) (b) of the Bill of Rights Ordinance, individuals charged with a criminal offense have the right to adequate time and facilities for their defense and to communicate with their chosen counsel. Similarly, Article 35 of the Basic Law states … Read more