Retired

Bitter Retired Scientists Advocate for Adversarial Regulation as Alternative to Risk Management Process

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SAN DIEGO – A growing number of retired regulatory scientists are advocating for a new approach to regulatory risk management. These former government-employed scientists, bitter over their experiences in the past, believe that the traditional risk management process is flawed and ineffective. They propose an alternative strategy known as “adversarial regulation,” which seeks to use mass tort litigation to change the behavior of companies and individuals rather than relying on laws and public policies. The concept of adversarial regulation gained traction after its success in the battle against Big Tobacco. These retired scientists argue that … Read more

Retired Judge’s Victory: Unusual Criminal Charge Dismissed in Alaskan Grand Jury Case

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ANCHORAGE, Alaska — A retired judge in Anchorage, Alaska, has been cleared of an “extremely unusual” criminal charge brought against her by a grand jury, marking a significant victory for former judge Margaret Murphy and a setback for conservative legal activists. The charge of perjury against Murphy, which was included in an indictment with minimal details, was dismissed by Superior Court Judge Thomas A. Matthews. The case, which emerged from a broader investigation by a Kenai grand jury, diverged from the norm as it was initiated by the grand jury rather than a state prosecutor. … Read more

Remembering Retired Butte County Superior Court Judge Ann Rutherford: A Trailblazer in the California Judiciary

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BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – Ann H. Rutherford, a groundbreaking figure in the California judiciary and a highly regarded member of the legal community in Butte County, has passed away, according to the county’s superior court. Retiring from the Butte County Superior Court in 2001, Rutherford continued to serve through the Judicial Council of California’s Assigned Judges Program until her full retirement in August 2017. Rutherford’s legacy as the first female judge in the Butte County Superior Court began in 1976 when she was appointed to the Chico Municipal Court by Governor Jerry Brown. Her election … 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