Judicial Conference Takes Action to Eliminate Judge Shopping and Ensure Fairness in the Courtroom

Washington, D.C. – The Judicial Conference of the United States has taken a significant step towards creating a fair and impartial justice system. In an effort to combat judge shopping and promote random case assignment, the governing body of federal courts has released guidelines for district courts to follow. This move aims to address the appearance of unfairness and restore public trust in the judicial process. Judge shopping refers to the practice of selecting a judge who is perceived to be sympathetic to a particular case. This has raised concerns about the integrity of the … Read more

Rep. Andy Kim Takes Aim at Political Advantage in New Jersey Primaries with Lawsuit to Eliminate Organization Lines

TRENTON, New Jersey – A federal judge in New Jersey has scheduled a hearing for March 18 to address a lawsuit filed by Representative Andy Kim (D-Moorestown) seeking to eliminate organization lines in the state’s primaries. U.S. District Court Judge Zahid Quraishi has expedited the briefing schedule, instructing opposition briefs and motions to intervene to be filed by March 6, with reply briefs due by March 12. Judge Quraishi intends to make a decision by April 5, although he remains open to issuing it earlier. The hearing will primarily focus on determining if county clerks … Read more

Weld County Worker Awarded $30 Million in Damages Following Tank Explosion, Sparks Push to Eliminate Pain and Suffering Caps

GREELEY, Colo. – A federal jury has awarded a $30 million judgment to an oil and gas worker who was severely injured in a tank explosion in Weld County, Colorado. Steven Straughen, an Idaho native working for BHS Inc., lost a leg in the explosion and will require additional surgeries. The jury awarded $15 million for pain, suffering, and mental anguish, but current Colorado law limits personal injury awards in this category to about $600,000. Straughen may not receive the full amount as a result. Nevertheless, he remains optimistic about the outcome and is grateful … Read more

New Laws Improve Motorcycle Safety and Eliminate Duplicate Testing Requirements

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Motorcyclists in Illinois can now benefit from two new laws that aim to improve their experience on the road. House Bill 2582 and Senate Bill 896, which took effect on January 1, have brought significant changes to the state’s motorcycle regulations. One of the new laws, House Bill 2582, eliminates the requirement for motorcyclists under the age of 18 to complete a motorcycle driver’s examination with the Secretary of State. Previously, 16- to 17-year-old riders had to complete a Cycle Driver Testing Course provided by the Illinois Department of Transportation, in addition … Read more