Jury Seeks Judge’s Guidance Amidst Stalemate in Waupaca County Double Murder Trial

WAUPACA, Wis. — A double murder trial in Waupaca County has hit a stumbling block as jurors sought guidance from the judge regarding deliberations. Jurors expressed concerns over one member’s stated resolution that their mind was made up and that they wouldn’t change it. As discussions continued on Thursday morning, the jury submitted a letter through the bailiff asking the judge for clarification on the duties of jurors when faced with a firm opinion from a fellow member. In part, the letter questioned whether it was the responsibility of that juror to persuade others to … Read more

Jury Stalemate Reached in Tornado Cash Founder’s Money Laundering Trial

A federal jury in New York City has been unable to reach a unanimous decision regarding the money laundering charges against the founder of Tornado Cash, a cryptocurrency mixing service. This outcome reflects a growing tension within the legal system surrounding the regulation of digital currencies and tools used to enhance privacy. The jury deliberated for several days but ultimately reported being deadlocked, leading the presiding judge to announce a mistrial. The defendant, Alexey Pertsev, had faced accusations of facilitating criminal activity by allegedly aiding users in obscuring the source of their digital assets. His … Read more

Florida Appeals Court Overturns $8.1 Million Verdict Against R.J. Reynolds, Calls for New Trial Amid Jury Instruction Controversy

Miami, Fla. — A recent decision by Florida’s Third District Court of Appeal has significant implications for a case against R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., reversing an $8.1 million jury award. The court determined that the initial trial contained errors that warrant a new examination of the evidence on strict liability and negligence. During the previous trial, instructions provided to the jury included findings against R.J. Reynolds that had already been dismissed during the summary judgment phase. This prompted the appellate court to take action, resulting in the case being sent back for a fresh trial. … Read more

NEC Infant Formula Legal Team Gears Up for Key Meeting with MDL Judge After First Bellwether Trial Dismissal

Lawyers representing families impacted by NEC infant formula cases are set to meet with a federal judge overseeing the multidistrict litigation in an ongoing effort to address the complexities of the lawsuits. This gathering occurs following the dismissal of the first bellwether trial, which had drawn significant attention. The bellwether trial sought to evaluate claims against the manufacturers of certain infant formulas linked to necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a severe gastrointestinal condition affecting premature infants. The dismissal has raised concerns among plaintiffs regarding the future trajectory of their cases. During the upcoming meeting, attorneys are expected … Read more