Surplus Equity and State Laws: Supreme Court Decides in Favor of Property Owners in Groundbreaking Tyler v. Hennepin County Ruling

Washington, D.C. – In a landmark decision that could reshape property rights, the U.S. Supreme Court delivered a ruling in 2023 that clarifies what constitutes “private property” under the Constitution in cases of government action. The case, Tyler v. Hennepin County, Minnesota, addressed whether a taxpayer retains a property interest in excess funds after a government tax sale has recovered the owed taxes. The court’s unanimous decision, penned by Chief Justice Roberts, held that if a government entity sells seized property to settle tax debts, any surplus funds generated beyond the tax debt must be … Read more

Ugandan Judge, Known for Supporting Israel in Landmark Genocide Case, Likely to Lead International Court of Justice

Kampala, Uganda – Judge Julia Sebutinde, an experienced Ugandan jurist known for her significant contributions to international law, is set to become the next president of the International Court of Justice (ICJ). If confirmed, Sebutinde’s appointment will mark a historic milestone as she would be the first African woman to lead the United Nations’ highest legal authority. Sebutinde’s distinguished career includes pivotal roles in various international legal arenas, notably her involvement in the Special Court for Sierra Leone where she made significant contributions to the prosecution of war criminals, including former Liberian President Charles Taylor. … Read more

Alabama Mother’s Triumph: Supreme Court Mandate Supports Breastfeeding Moms in Jury Duty Debate

Montgomery, Ala. — In a notable legal shift, the Supreme Court of Alabama has ruled that breastfeeding mothers who are summoned to jury duty can now seek exemption, responding to a longstanding concern among new mothers regarding civic duties and childcare. This decision underscores an increasing recognition of the personal obligations that can conflict with public service requirements. Breastfeeding mothers in Alabama have often faced the difficult choice of serving on a jury or ensuring they are available to tend to their infants’ nutritional needs. The new ruling provides them with relief that aligns with … Read more

Alabama Supreme Court Acts Fast to Excuse Nursing Mothers from Jury Duty After Public Outcry

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — In a significant shift in court policy, the Alabama Supreme Court swiftly issued an administrative order granting jury duty exemptions to nursing mothers, following a contentious incident at the Jefferson County Courthouse where a mother was ostensibly threatened with child welfare intervention for bringing her baby to jury duty. Kandace Brown, the mother at the center of the incident, reported an ordeal of approximately three hours at the courthouse, during which she had to explain repeatedly to multiple court officials why her 3-month-old child’s presence was necessary. “She cannot eat without me,” … Read more