Empowered Citizens: Exploring the Rise of Jury Nullification in America

In a noteworthy legal discussion in Chicago, Illinois, jurors are finding themselves at the center of a modern debate: jury nullification. This concept, which allows jurors to acquit defendants even if the evidence suggests guilt, is resurfacing in conversations about judicial power and individual rights. Advocates for jury nullification believe it serves as a critical check on government authority, allowing jurors to express their moral or ethical objections to certain laws. This principle is often invoked in cases involving controversial statutes or perceived injustices within the criminal justice system. The practice rests on the notion … Read more

Exploring the Shadows: Opaque Capital’s Role in Mass Tort Financing at Harvard Law Bankruptcy Roundtable

BOSTON — A recent discussion at Harvard Law School focused on the intersection of opaque capital and mass tort financing, shedding light on the complexities and challenges within this evolving legal landscape. Experts gathered to examine how financing has transformed the dynamics of mass torts, often leading to disputes over funding transparency and accountability. Mass tort financing has gained momentum as a pivotal strategy for law firms representing large groups of plaintiffs. This model allows attorneys to take on significant cases without the burden of upfront costs, as third-party investors provide the necessary capital. However, … Read more

Jurors Return: Exploring the Greater Kansas City Area’s Surprising Drop in 2024 Verdicts

Kansas City, Missouri — The Greater Kansas City area has experienced a notable reduction in jury verdicts in 2024, sparking discussions among legal experts and community members about the implications of this trend. As courts across the region adapt to new dynamics and procedural changes, both plaintiffs and defendants are navigating the evolving landscape of justice. The decline in jury awards, as reported, may reflect various factors impacting the legal system. Experts suggest that a combination of increasing judicial discretion, changed jury compositions, and shifts in public attitudes toward litigation are contributing to this phenomenon. … Read more

Exploring the Enduring Legacy of English Law in Israel: Insights from Lord Pannick and Former Supreme Court President Beinisch

Jerusalem, Israel — The influence of English common law on Israel’s legal system was the focus of an engaging dialogue between Lord Pannick KC and Dorit Beinisch, a former president of the Supreme Court of Israel. The discussion took place at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem as part of the Lionel Cohen lecture series, which honors the contributions of Lord Cohen of Walmer. The conversation highlighted the substantial impact of English law during the British mandate in Palestine, particularly the reliance on established legal texts and precedents that have shaped Israeli jurisprudence since the country’s … Read more