Guidance

Mass Tort Attorneys Face New Challenges in Complying with ABA Guidance: Ensuring Accountability and Ethics for Clients

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Plaintiffs’ lawyers handling mass tort cases across the United States are faced with the challenge of adhering to new guidelines issued by the American Bar Association (ABA). On February 16, 2024, the ABA introduced a set of regulations aimed at ensuring compliance with ethical standards and best practices in the field of mass litigation. This development places additional responsibilities on attorneys as they navigate the complex landscape of class action lawsuits. The ABA’s guidance underscores the importance of attorneys’ duty to communicate effectively with their clients and maintain transparency throughout the litigation process. It emphasizes … Read more

Iowa Teacher Fights Back Against Controversial Book Ban Law, Seeks Guidance for Inclusive Education

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Des Moines, Iowa – A special education teacher in Des Moines Public Schools has expressed concerns over the removal of books from his classroom due to a new state education law. Dan Gutmann, along with several other plaintiffs, has filed a lawsuit against the state over the law, which restricts instruction and curriculum relating to gender identity and sexual orientation for students up to sixth grade. The law also bans books that depict sex acts. While a federal judge has temporarily blocked the enforcement of major portions of the law, Gutmann and other educators still … Read more

Mastering the Art of Jury Instructions: Key Strategies for Clear and Concise Legal Guidance

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St. Louis, Missouri – Jurors play a vital role in the legal system, but as non-lawyers, they often require clear guidance when deliberating a case. This is where jury instructions come into play. Serving as a roadmap for jurors, these instructions ensure that they make their decision within the proper legal parameters. In a recent episode of the “Heels in the Courtroom” podcast, trial attorneys discussed the importance of clear and concise jury instructions, as well as potential pitfalls and resources for creating effective instructions. The podcast hosts, Amy Gunn, Liz Lenivy, Megan Crowe, and … Read more