Rights

Critical Disability Rights Law Faces Potential Overturn in Landmark Legal Battle

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Columbia, SC – A pivotal lawsuit is currently challenging a long-standing federal statute that has guarded the rights of individuals with disabilities for decades. The legal action, if successful, could potentially dismantle these protections, affecting countless lives across the nation. Enacted in 1973, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act was established initially to prevent discrimination against students with disabilities in educational settings. Over the years, its scope has broadened significantly to include access to healthcare, employment, and everyday activities, ensuring that facilities are accessible to all. Kimberly Tissot, president of Able SC, a South Carolina-based … Read more

New Jersey Supreme Court Clarifies Appeal Rights on Evidential Rulings Post-Jury Verdict

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TRENTON, N.J. — The New Jersey Supreme Court issued a ruling on January 15, 2025, that clarified uncertainties regarding the appellant’s rights in legal proceedings. The case in question, Brehme v. Irwin, addressed whether a plaintiff could appeal an evidential ruling in limine after a jury’s decision has been finalized and a judgment satisfied. In a significant legal decision, the court stated that such appeals depend on various factors, setting a precedent that could influence future judicial proceedings. This judgment underscores the intricacies of post-verdict litigation processes and highlights the ongoing evolution of appellate law … Read more

Former City Lawyer Alleges Discrimination by Davenport Officials, Sparks Civil Rights Investigation

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DAVENPORT, Iowa — A former municipal attorney has filed a complaint against the city of Davenport, alleging that she faced persistent harassment and discrimination from city officials, which she claims were severe enough to drive her from her position. Mallory Bagby, the attorney in question, submitted a detailed 22-page document to the Iowa Civil Rights Commission outlining her grievances. According to the complaint, Bagby’s departure from city employment was the culmination of ongoing issues after she accused specific city leaders and elected officials of infringing on her civil rights. She identifies herself in the complaint … Read more

ACLU of Missouri’s Tori Schafer Named Lawyer of the Year for Championing Reproductive Rights Initiative

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Jefferson City, Mo. – The ACLU of Missouri’s Tori Schafer has been named Lawyer of the Year by Missouri Lawyers Media. Schafer will be recognized alongside fellow attorneys Chris Grant of Schuchat, Cook & Werner, and Charles Hatfield of Stinson at the upcoming Annual Missouri Lawyers Awards scheduled for February 13. Schafer, currently the Director of Policy and Campaigns at the ACLU of Missouri, played a pivotal role in ensuring the passage of Amendment 3. Her efforts involved not only leading successful legal battles to maintain the amendment on the ballot but also serving as … Read more