Indictment

Woman Avoids Indictment After Miscarriage; Legal Outcome Sparks Controversy

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ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – A jury in Albuquerque, New Mexico decided not to indict Brittany Watts, a woman who had been charged following a miscarriage. The case gained attention as it raised questions about how the legal system treats women who experience pregnancy complications. Watts faced charges related to feticide after she had a miscarriage at home in 2019. Prosecutors argued that she had caused the miscarriage by using illegal drugs during her pregnancy. However, the defense presented evidence disputing these claims, emphasizing the lack of direct evidence linking the drug use to the miscarriage. The … Read more

Indictment: Suspect Faces Serious Charges for Fleeing with Runaway Girl in High-Speed Chase

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JEFFERSON COUNTY, TEXAS – A 22-year-old suspect has been indicted by a grand jury for evading officers while having a runaway juvenile girl in the passenger’s seat. Nicholas Barton of Beaumont now faces a charge of Evading Arrest or Detention With a Motor Vehicle, a third-degree felony. If convicted, he could potentially receive a prison sentence of 2-10 years and a fine of up to $10,000. The incident began on December 12 when Nederland police received a report that a 16-year-old runaway girl was seen leaving her home with Barton, as captured by a doorbell … Read more

Landmark Ruling: Fourth Circuit Determines Indictment Not Considered a ‘Claim’ Under Lawyer’s Liability Policy

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Columbia, MD – In a recent decision, the Fourth Circuit ruled in favor of Wiley’s clients, stating that a federal indictment with a criminal forfeiture allegation does not qualify as a “claim” under a law firm’s professional liability policy. The court argued that a forfeiture allegation does not meet the requirements of a “written demand” as outlined in the policy’s definition of a claim. The case involved an insured attorney who sought coverage for a Department of Justice subpoena and subsequent criminal indictment. The indictment charged the attorney with conspiracy, money laundering, and forfeiture related … Read more

Former Alaska District Court Judge Faces Trial After Perjury Indictment: Court to Decide Fate in Landmark Case

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ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Arguments were heard on Monday in the case of former Alaska District Court Judge Margaret Murphy, who was indicted last year on a perjury charge. The hearing took place at the Nesbitt Courthouse in Anchorage, with the court considering whether to proceed with a trial. If convicted, Murphy could face up to 10 years in jail and a fine. Superior Court Judge Thomas Matthew clarified that he would not make a decision on Monday, as the purpose of the hearing was to hear arguments from both the defense and prosecution. Judge Matthew … Read more