County

Family Seeks Justice After Tragic Death of Mentally Ill Man in Arizona Heat, Files Wrongful Death Lawsuit Against County and Care Facilities

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PHOENIX — The family of a 58-year-old man, who died from exposure to extreme heat in Phoenix last summer, is pursuing a wrongful death lawsuit against several parties, including Maricopa County. The case emerged one year after Lafayette Palmes was found dead on a day when temperatures soared to 116 degrees. Palmes, who struggled with mental health challenges, was under the guardianship of Maricopa County at the time of his death. According to family members, the circumstances surrounding his passing prompted them to seek accountability. “We are his voice. He didn’t have a voice,” said … Read more

Governor Evers Names Emily Nolan-Plutchak as First Female Judge for Wood County Circuit Court

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WISCONSIN RAPIDS, Wis. — Governor Tony Evers has named Emily Nolan-Plutchak to the Wood County Circuit Court, filling the vacancy left by Judge Todd Wolf’s retirement. Nolan-Plutchak’s term is set to conclude on July 31, 2026. “I am honored to take on this role and to serve the people of Wood County,” Nolan-Plutchak stated. “I appreciate Governor Evers for his trust and confidence in me. My dedication to the residents of this beautiful county is clear: I will base my decisions on facts and the law, ensure respect for everyone who appears before me, collaborate … Read more

Remembering Appellate Judge Higbee: A Pillar of Justice in Atlantic County Passes Away at 66

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ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — The legal community is mourning the loss of Appellate Judge Higbee, who passed away at the age of 66. Known for her significant contributions to mass tort litigation in Atlantic County, she leaves behind a legacy of dedication to justice and an indelible impact on the community. Judge Higbee, whose career saw her navigate complex legal challenges, became a prominent figure in the Circuit Court, particularly in the realm of mass tort cases. Her tenure was marked by her commitment to fair adjudication and her firm yet compassionate demeanor in the … Read more

Olmsted County Jury Awards $7.6 Million to Abuse Survivor, Paving the Way for Accountability Among Insurers in Diocese Cases

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ROCHESTER, Minn. — An Olmsted County jury has awarded $7.6 million to a man in a civil lawsuit against the Diocese of Winona-Rochester, stemming from allegations of sexual abuse that occurred more than 50 years ago. The plaintiff, now in his late 60s, claims he was abused by Rev. Joseph Cashman during his childhood from 1973 to 1976. At that time, Cashman served as principal at Lourdes High School in Rochester. This case is part of a broader wave of litigation this year against the diocese, which recently reached a $21.5 million settlement with 145 … Read more