Discipline

Missouri Supreme Court Reviews Legal Fee Practices, Evaluates Attorney Discipline in Bifurcation Cases

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JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — The Missouri Supreme Court recently scrutinized the practices of two attorneys who partnered with an Arizona-based attorney financing firm, challenging their methods in offering bankruptcy services through unusual fee arrangements. The cases, held on Feb. 11, spotlight broader concerns about transparency and potential exploitation in legal billing practices. The first case reviewed Jennifer Benedict Raines, an Independence-based solo practitioner specializing in bankruptcy, family law, and personal injury. Represented by Anthony Rupp of Foulston Siefkin, Raines faced questions over her collaboration with Fresh Start Funding, which provides financial services to law firms … Read more

Chicago Alderman Convicted of Racketeering and Bribery Escapes Discipline Due to Powerful Connections

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Chicago, IL – Former attorney and Alderman Ed Burke, who was convicted of racketeering, bribery, and attempted extortion, is avoiding suspension despite his charges. The Illinois Supreme Court has yet to act on a petition for an interim suspension, as a majority of the court’s justices have recused themselves from the case. This has brought attention to the influence and power that the Burke family has had in the Illinois judiciary. Burke’s crimes involved a city hall shakedown scheme to benefit his law firm, Klafter & Burke. He allegedly blocked permits for companies that did … Read more

Controversy Surrounding Vague Corporal Punishment Laws Ignites Debate on Child Discipline

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Orlando, Florida – State Attorney Andrew Bain’s decision not to prosecute a pastor accused of child abuse has sparked controversy. Several parents reported that the senior pastor of the Alpha Learning Academy used corporal punishment on 16 students, using a belt to strike them on their hips, legs, and backs. While public schools in Central Florida do not allow corporal punishment, private schools like the Alpha Learning Academy can legally administer it in Florida. Deandre Boykin, one of the parents whose child was allegedly hit, expressed outrage at the lack of information provided to parents … Read more