Judge

Judge Hands Down Lengthy 70-Year Prison Sentence to Convicted Killer

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BEAUMONT, Texas – A convicted killer has been sentenced to 70 years in prison by Judge Raquel West for the murder of Clifford Jones Jr. The sentencing comes after a jury took just 30 minutes to convict the defendant on Thursday morning. Jones was shot and killed in July 2020 at the Jefferson House Apartments in Beaumont, Texas. His girlfriend was also shot but survived the attack. During the trial, Jones’ mother addressed the court and read a victim’s impact statement, expressing the profound impact the crime has had on her family. The judge took … Read more

Longtime North Carolina Judge Announces Transition to Senior Status at Federal Appellate Court, Opening Vacancy

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RALEIGH, N.C. – Circuit Judge Jim Wynn of the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has announced his decision to transition to senior status, reducing his role on the federal appellate court. Having served on the court since 2010, Wynn’s move to senior status will create a vacancy on the 15-member appeals court. Details regarding the specific date of this transition have not yet been disclosed. When judges choose senior status, they can opt for a reduced caseload while still receiving their salary as an annuity. Wynn, a native of Martin County, North Carolina, is … Read more

Federal Judge Strikes Down Iowa’s Gender Balance Law on Judicial Nominating Commission

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DES MOINES, Iowa — A federal judge has ruled that a decades-old Iowa law requiring gender balance on the state’s top judicial nominating commission is no longer constitutional and cannot be enforced. The law, which was implemented in the 1980s, mandates that the commission recommending candidates to fill vacancies on Iowa’s appellate courts must have an equal number of male and female members. The decision came as a result of a lawsuit filed by attorneys from the Pacific Legal Foundation challenging the law, arguing that it violated the equal protection guarantees of the 14th Amendment. … Read more

Beloved Retired Judge Ben McLaughlin Passes Away at 83, Leaving a Legacy in Alabama’s 33rd Circuit

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OZARK, Ala. (AP) – Former Judge Ben McLaughlin passed away on Wednesday afternoon at the age of 83. McLaughlin dedicated many years to serving as a judge in the 33 Circuit, Dale and Geneva Counties, spanning from 1976 to 2013. Known for his commitment to justice and upholding the law, McLaughlin’s passing leaves a void in the legal community. Colleagues and community members are mourning this loss and reflecting on his contributions. During his tenure, McLaughlin presided over numerous cases, making fair and impartial decisions. His wisdom and experience earned him the respect and admiration … Read more