Justice

New York Leaders Urged to Reform Justice Laws as Crime Rates Climb and Public Frustration Grows

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Albany, NY – In the bustling corridors of New York’s legislative buildings, a clarion call for reform echoes, stemming from controversial legal changes enacted in 2019 which critics argue have led to a spike in crime throughout the state, particularly in New York City. Spearheaded by Governor Andrew Cuomo, these reforms have been a part of a broader package that aimed to overhaul the criminal justice system but have since faced fierce criticism for their unintended consequences. The reforms included significant changes to the bail system, allowing many to avoid incarceration while awaiting trial, and … Read more

Groundbreaking Jury System Research Wins Prestigious Civil Justice Scholarship Award for Law Professor Valerie P. Hans and Team

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Cornell University law professor Valerie P. Hans, along with two distinguished colleagues, received the prestigious 2025 Civil Justice Scholarship Award from the National Civil Justice Institute. This recognition is awarded for influential scholarly work in the realm of civil justice. Hans is honored alongside Professor Richard Jolly of Southwestern Law School and attorney Robert Peck from the Center for Constitutional Law. The trio’s winning article, “Democratic Renewal and the Civil Jury,” published in the Georgia Law Review, examines the pivotal role of the civil jury in enhancing civic engagement and upholding democratic values in contemporary … Read more

SWFL Teens Rally for Justice, Join Legal Battle Following New Orleans New Year’s Eve Tragedy

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New Orleans, Louisiana — In the aftermath of a harrowing terrorist attack that occurred on New Year’s Eve in New Orleans, a group of teenagers from Southwest Florida have joined a civil lawsuit, seeking accountability for the tragic event. The lawsuit highlights several alleged lapses that potentially contributed to the incident, demanding justice and prevention of future negligence. The legal action, which was formally filed earlier this month, points to failures in security measures that could have possibly prevented the attack. According to initial investigations, there were multiple oversights in surveillance and response protocols which … Read more

Trailblazing Appointment: Governor Hobbs Names First Latina and Black Justice to Arizona Supreme Court

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Phoenix, AZ — In a historic appointment, Governor Katie Hobbs has selected Yuma County Judge Maria Lopez to serve on the Arizona Supreme Court, marking her as the first Latina and first Black justice in the state’s history. Lopez, who has served with distinction on the Yuma County Superior Court, brings a wealth of experience and a diverse perspective to Arizona’s highest court. Her appointment by Gov. Hobbs has been praised for breaking barriers and promoting diversity within the state judiciary, which has been long overdue according to advocates for judicial diversity. “This appointment is … Read more