Former Top Judge Warns: Fund the Justice System or Rethink Jury Trials Amid Soaring Delays

LONDON, England β€” A former top judicial figure has issued a stark warning that the UK must either significantly increase funding for the justice system or reconsider the role of jury trials in some criminal cases. Lord Thomas, who served as the Lord Chief Justice of England and Wales from 2013 to 2017, described the justice system as being “in serious crisis,” plagued by chronic underfunding and inefficiencies that could lead to a backlog of 100,000 cases at crown courts without immediate, radical intervention. Successive governments have faced criticism for not prioritizing justice sector funding, … Read more

Marrakech International Film Festival Crowns Palestinian Drama ‘Happy Holidays’ as Top Winner Amidst Middle Eastern Tensions

Marrakech, Morocco – The prestigious Marrakech International Film Festival concluded its latest session with the Palestinian drama “Happy Holidays” clinching its highest accolade, the Etoile D’Or award. This notable win, announced on Friday, marks the first time a Palestinian film has garnered this top honor at the festival. Directed by Scandar Copti, the film portrays a nuanced narrative set in Haifa, Israel, where characters from Israeli and Palestinian backgrounds grapple with personal and societal complexities. “Happy Holidays,” which won a screenplay award earlier at the Venice Film Festival, benefits from the authentic performances of both … Read more

Marrakech Film Festival Honors Palestinian Film ‘Happy Holidays’ with Prestigious Top Award

Marrakech, Morocco – The Marrakech Film Festival, a highlight on the international cinema calendar, recently concluded with the Palestinian film “Happy Holidays” clinching the prestigious Golden Star award. This accolade marks a significant recognition for the film, underscoring the vibrant storytelling and artistic expression emerging from the Palestinian cinema scene. “Happy Holidays”, directed by Scandar Copti, tells the compelling story of three Palestinian friends who reunite during the Christmas season amidst the complex tapestry of their Middle Eastern heritage. The narrative weaves together personal and socio-political themes, presenting a poignant exploration of identity, camaraderie, and … Read more

Judge Dismisses Top Charge in High-Profile Subway Chokehold Death Case

New York, NY β€” In a significant legal development, a Manhattan court on Friday dismissed a major felony charge against Daniel Penny related to the chokehold death of Jordan Neely on the subway system earlier this year. The decision followed after the jury communicated their inability to reach consensus on the manslaughter charge, having been deadlocked during two rounds of deliberations. Assistant District Attorney Dafna Yoran announced in court that she would seek dismissal of the top charge of second-degree manslaughter against Penny, marking a pivotal moment in this closely watched case. The judge promptly … Read more