West

Legal Battle Brews in West Virginia Over Religious Exemptions to School Vaccination Rules

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. — A judge in Berkeley County is grappling with the intersection of religious freedoms and public health, following a hearing regarding school vaccination mandates. Judge Michael Lorensen indicated his hesitance to assert that West Virginia’s religious freedoms law has a direct bearing on compulsory vaccinations for schoolchildren. After a lengthy three-hour session, Lorensen opted against issuing a preliminary injunction that would require local school officials to accommodate requests for religious exemptions from nine families. While he scheduled a more comprehensive hearing for Nov. 12, he cautioned the families that their prospects did not … Read more

Faegre Drinker Strengthens West Coast Team with Tom Pack’s Expertise in Product Liability and Mass Torts

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SAN FRANCISCO — Faegre Drinker has welcomed Tom Pack as a partner in its product liability and mass torts practice, significantly enhancing its San Francisco office’s capacity in this critical area of law. Pack’s appointment follows recent expansions in the firm’s West Coast operations, including the addition of former federal prosecutor Carolyn Fitzhugh McNiven in the fall and attorney Heather Burke earlier this year. With his extensive experience, Pack is expected to strengthen the firm’s product liability capabilities as it seeks to grow its presence in California. In his role, Pack will represent life sciences … Read more

Key West Jury’s Verdict Sends Strong Message to Big Insurance: Accountability Matters in Times of Need

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Key West, Florida — In a recent ruling, a jury has underscored the responsibilities of major insurance companies, illuminating public expectations in times of crisis. On August 7, the verdict handed down in a Florida federal courtroom emphasized not only the particulars of a specific case but also the broader implications regarding insurance practices. The trial brought to light crucial issues surrounding how insurance firms operate when their clients are most vulnerable. It revolved around the obligations insurers hold to their policyholders, particularly during times of distress. Many believe that this verdict may set a … Read more

West Virginia Takes Steps to Strengthen Immigration Enforcement Through New Partnership with ICE

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PARKERSBURG, W.Va. — In a significant move aimed at enhancing immigration enforcement, West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey has finalized an executive order that mobilizes state law enforcement to assist U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The initiative, which has been months in the making, involves collaboration between several state agencies, including the West Virginia National Guard, the West Virginia State Police, and the Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation. The formal agreement enables selected local law enforcement officers to execute specific immigration-related duties under the guidance and oversight of ICE. Officers participating in this program will … Read more