Countys

Polk County’s Costly Fallout: Jury Awards $4 Million to Wrongfully Terminated HR Director Amid Political Turmoil

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DES MOINES, Iowa — A jury in Dallas County has awarded former Polk County Human Resources Director Jim Niehaus more than $4 million in a wrongful termination lawsuit. The ruling opens the door for taxpayers to potentially shoulder part of this substantial financial burden. The jury found that several Polk County officials were liable for libel when they terminated Niehaus’s employment in 2020. The circumstances surrounding Niehaus’s firing are emblematic of a larger pattern of internal disputes among the Polk County Board of Supervisors. Supervisor Matt McCoy commented on the ongoing turmoil, acknowledging the challenges … Read more

Historic Appointment: Michelle Merendino Sworn in as Liberty County’s First Female District Judge

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Liberty, Texas — Michelle Merendino made history on September 19 as the first woman to be sworn in as a judge for the 75th Judicial District Court of Texas. Appointed by Governor Greg Abbott, Merendino fills the unexpired term of former Judge Mark Morefield, who retired in January 2025. The ceremony took place at the Liberty County Courthouse, drawing a crowd of supporters, friends, and family. Among those present were her husband, Jared, and their children and grandchildren. The oath of office was administered by former County Court at Law Judge Don Taylor, who praised … Read more

Gordon County’s Jury Selection Set for August 18, 2025: What You Need to Know

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On Aug. 18, 2025, a jury will be convened in Gordon County, Georgia, as part of the county’s ongoing legal proceedings. This selection is part of the system designed to allow citizens to participate in the judicial process, ensuring that community voices are represented in court decisions. The jury pool represents a cross-section of the Gordon County community, comprising individuals from various backgrounds and professions. This diversity is crucial, as it brings different perspectives to the legal process, reflecting the values and experiences of the residents. Potential jurors have been summoned in accordance with local … Read more

Justice Champion: McLennan County’s Tara Avants Honored as Baylor Law’s Young Lawyer of the Year

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MCLENNAN COUNTY, Texas — Tara Avants, an Assistant District Attorney in McLennan County, has been recognized by Baylor Law School as the 2025 “Young Lawyer of the Year” for her dedicated work in the pursuit of justice and her commitment to mentoring law students. Avants leads the Crimes Against Children Unit in the District Attorney’s Office, having built her career as a prosecutor since graduating from Baylor Law in 2017. Over her tenure, she and her team have successfully prosecuted numerous cases, with more than thirty cases being tried before juries. The team, under Avants’ … Read more