Countys

Marin County’s Civil Grand Jury Calls for Increased Transparency Amidst Confusion of Nearly 100 Local Agencies

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San Rafael, California – The latest report from Marin County’s Civil Grand Jury raises pressing concerns about the management of nearly 100 local agencies, which collectively oversee a budget nearing $1 billion and employ over 1,800 individuals. These entities, which include special districts and joint powers authorities, are responsible for vital services such as water, sewer, electricity, police, fire protection, and waste management. The grand jury identified 62 special purpose districts and 37 joint powers authorities that often operate with limited transparency. While larger agencies like Marin Municipal Water District and the Sonoma-Marin Area Rail … Read more

Judge Shuts Down Bucks County’s Lawsuit Against Fossil Fuel Giants, Citing Jurisdictional Limits

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Bucks County, Pennsylvania — A recent ruling from the Bucks County Court of Common Pleas has dismissed a lawsuit targeting major fossil fuel companies, effectively ending the county’s attempt to hold these corporations accountable for damages linked to climate change. Judge Stephen Corr issued the decision on Friday, halting the county’s pursuit of financial reparations for climate-related impacts. The lawsuit was filed in March 2024, naming companies such as Shell, BP, Chevron, and ExxonMobil, along with the American Petroleum Institute, and accused them of knowing about the harmful effects of their products on the environment. … Read more

New Legislation Paves the Way for Jury Trials in Baldwin County’s Satellite Courthouses

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Daphne, Ala. — A new law set to take effect will change the landscape of jury trials in Baldwin County by allowing for the use of satellite courthouses in Foley and Fairhope. This change comes after the state Senate approved a bill that removes previous limitations on how often these courthouses can be utilized. The measure passed during the final day of the legislative session, lifting a previous cap of 175 days on the use of satellite courthouses. Additionally, it establishes a framework for conducting jury trials in these locations, pending the signature of Governor … Read more

Hamilton County’s Concurrent Grand Jury Delivers Extensive Review on Case Procedures and Urges Public Awareness on Specialized Courts

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CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — As Hamilton County’s community-based judicial system reaches its stride, the Concurrent Grand Jury (CGJ), which commenced its latest session on January 6, has concluded its comprehensive term of reviewing cases, recommending systemic enhancements, and offering a window into the complex system of justice administration. Newly initiated jurors met through April 22, deliberating on a hefty docket of 360 cases involving a collective 1,138 charges, underscoring the often-intense activity that defines this civic duty. Hamilton County operates two grand juries, the Concurrent and Regular, which alternate weeks and share similar obligations to examine … Read more