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Vernon Thomas is a military attorney, community servant, and judicial candidate for the 19th Judicial District Court in Baton Rouge. In this heartfelt conversation, Vernon and Kyla reflect on his legal journey—from public defender and prosecutor to staff attorney and JAG officer—and how each role shaped his approach to justice. With lessons from his father, mentorship from respected judges, and deep Southern roots, Vernon is driven by more than ambition—he's driven by service.LAWYER SIDE HUSTLESVernon's not one to chase flashy side hustles—his hustle is service. In addition to his military service and legal practice, he helps run the Cutting Edge Music Business Conference, a long-running event originally founded by his father and godfather. The conference helps attorneys gain education in television, film, and music law, especially as digital media transforms the industry. Vernon contributes by advising on ethical issues and supporting work-for-hire contracts for local creatives.“It was originally designed to kind of be similar to South by Southwest, where lawyers can come and get education in the television, film, and music industry,” expresses Vernon Thomas in Episode 194 of You Are a Lawyer.Through this work, Vernon supports artists and advocates for fair contracts and informed decision-making. It's a creative outlet that intersects naturally with his legal career—and a meaningful way to stay rooted in his family legacy while helping others grow.LISTEN TO LEARNWhat it looks like to build a legal career rooted in public serviceHow Vernon balances military service, family life, and legal workWhat it really takes to run for judge—and why it mattersWE ALSO DISCUSSThe weight and responsibility of being on the benchHow clerks, court staff, and mentors shape the judicial processThe importance of intentionality and legacy in legal careersJoin the FREE mailing list!Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!Interact with You Are A LawyerKyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyerWebsite: https://www.youarealawyer.com
The Hon. Jennifer Dillingham is one of four judges who have successfully completed the Texas Judicial Commission on Mental Health's Treatment Courts Collaborative, a program which pairs judges who are interested in creating or expanding a treatment court with mentor judges who have an established court in their own jurisdiction. The program concluded on April 4. In addition to Dillingham, who serves as 81st Judicial District Court judge for Atascosa, Frio, Karnes, La Salle, and Wilson counties, judges who completed the program are: •Hon. Cari Starritt- Burnett, 169th Judicial District Court, Bell County •Hon. Kirsten Legore, Guadalupe County Court at...Article Link
(The Center Square) − A Louisiana jury's decision last week to award $745 million in damages against Chevron has become the latest flashpoint in the national legal battle over climate accountability, drawing fierce reactions from industry allies, legal reform advocates, and watchdog groups warning of broader implications. The verdict, issued by the 25th Judicial District Court in Plaquemines Parish, marks the first jury trial result from a slate of more than 40 lawsuits filed by Louisiana parishes since 2013. The suits claim that oil and gas operations contributed significantly to coastal erosion and environmental degradation. But critics say the lawsuits could imperil the state's economic prospects while doing little to directly restore coastal lands.Support this podcast: https://secure.anedot.com/franklin-news-foundation/ce052532-b1e4-41c4-945c-d7ce2f52c38a?source_code=xxxxxxFull story: https://www.thecentersquare.com/national/article_07e37e27-e291-446e-a2b6-64607a475fca.html
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/AnalyticIn this segment of "Notorious Mass Effect," host Analytic Dreamz dives deep into Aubrey Drake Graham's legal confrontation with UMG Recordings, Inc., filed in Bexar County's 225th Judicial District Court, Texas (Case No. 2024CI26782). Analytic Dreamz meticulously dissects Drake's Rule 202 petition and TCPA motion for discovery, alleging UMG employed payola, bot-driven amplification, and anticompetitive strategies to propel "Not Like Us" to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Backed by FCC advisories from February 2025, a prior iHeartMedia settlement on February 26, 2025, and detailed deposition requests, Analytic Dreamz outlines the TCPA hearing set for March 24, 2025, aiming to uncover evidence of defamation, fraud, and antitrust violations tied to the track's unprecedented streaming and radio success.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/analytic-dreamz-notorious-mass-effect/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Chief Judge Blair Edwards announced the establishment of Division L within the 21st Judicial District Court to manage the rising caseloads in Tangipahoa, Livingston, and St. Helena parishes, with a particular focus on juvenile cases. In this episode, Lindon Bennett MaGee, a candidate for the Judge's seat, discusses her motivations to run and the necessity of Division L. Lindon, a local attorney with a decade of experience, highlights the overwhelming case numbers due to increased population and pandemic-related judicial delays.She shares her early influences, including her mother and the character Atticus Finch (To Kill a Mockingbird), which shaped her passion for justice and helping underserved communities. Lindy commits to addressing juvenile crime and emphasizes the need for judges to balance legal acumen with empathy. As her campaign progresses, she encourages community engagement ahead of the November 5 election and expresses her dedication to fostering an equitable judicial system for all residents. #louisiana #divisionL #Lindonmagee #livingstonparish #tangi #judge #twentyfirstjudicial Lindon Magee for Judge on the Web: https://www.lindy4judge.comLindon Magee for Judge on Facebook: / lbmlaw This episode is sponsored by Level Dumpsters You can learn more about Level Dumpsters by visiting: https://www.leveldumpsters.comSAVE 100.00 OFF YOUR DUMPSTER RENTAL JUST BY MENTIONING LOCAL LEADERS THE PODCAST!
Chief Judge Blair Edwards announced the establishment of Division L within the 21st Judicial District Court to manage the rising caseloads in Tangipahoa, Livingston, and St. Helena parishes, with a particular focus on juvenile cases.In this episode, Lindon Bennett MaGee, a candidate for the Judge's seat, discusses her motivations to run and the necessity of Division L. Lindon, a local attorney with a decade of experience, highlights the overwhelming case numbers due to increased population and pandemic-related judicial delays. She shares her early influences, including her mother and the character Atticus Finch (To Kill a Mockingbird), which shaped her passion for justice and helping underserved communities. Lindy commits to addressing juvenile crime and emphasizes the need for judges to balance legal acumen with empathy.As her campaign progresses, she encourages community engagement ahead of the November 5 election and expresses her dedication to fostering an equitable judicial system for all residents.Timestamps00:00 Introduction of Division L05:08 Personal Background and Education07:21 Passion for Law 10:56 Judicial Experience and Insights13:00 Campaign Trail and Community Engagement16:45 Reflections on Running for Office Lindon Magee for Judge on the Web: https://www.lindy4judge.comLindon Magee for Judge on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lbmlawThis episode is sponsored by Level Dumpsters You can learn more about Level Dumpsters by visiting: https://www.leveldumpsters.com SAVE 100.00 OFF YOUR DUMPSTER RENTAL JUST BY MENTIONING LOCAL LEADERS THE PODCAST!
The former sanctuary of the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs is a pile of rubble Aug. 12, as a backhoe operator demolishes the site of the 2017 massacre that claimed 26 lives and left more than 20 others injured, to make way for a memorial on the site. Church members voted in 2021 in favor of demolishing the former sanctuary, a source of pain for many in the wake of the mass shooting by a lone gunman. A temporary stay on the demolition was cleared by a decision in the 218th Judicial District Court last month. A new church...Article Link
This Sunday morn', Gregory Muncey dives into all of the great happenings in Saugatuck! He chats with Jessica Johnson from Clearbrook Restaurant - The Grill Room, April Gundy from Encompass Wellness Yoga & Fitness Center, Alec Payleitner & Lindsay Marie from the new Saugataco, and Judge Bill Baillargeon - 57th Judicial District Court. Happy Sunday Funday! 06-16-24See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Susan McFarland grew up in Missouri, and had a successful career, but while in the midst of planning her divorce to Richard McFarland, she ultimately went missing and was found murdered. The investigation revealed a series of suspicious actions by Richard, leading police straight to his doorsteps. Make sure to check out our podcast besties "A Date with Dateline" wherever you get your podcasts! Thank you to this week's sponsors! Help teach your little one about finances by signing up for Greenlight today. Use Greenlight.com/moms and get your first month free! Stop wasting money on things you don't use. Cancel your unwanted subscriptions by going to RocketMoney.com/MOMS. Get the Rakuten app NOW and join the 17 million members who are already saving! Cash Back rates change daily, see Rakuten.com for details. Learn how to sleep again with Stellar Sleep. Head to StellarSleep.com/MOMS for your FREE 7-day trial and then just $99 per year… PLUS you can cancel any time within the first 30 days for a full refund. To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://www.advertisecast.com/MomsandMysteriesATrueCrimePodcast. New merch! Check out Moms and Mysteries Threadless! You can also get new episodes a day early and ad free, plus merch and more at Patreon.com/momsandmysteriespodcast Listen and subscribe to Melissa's other podcast, Criminality!! It's the podcast for those who love reality TV, true crime, and want to hear all the juicy stories where the two genres intersect. Subscribe and listen here: www.pod.link/criminality Check-out Moms and Mysteries to find links to our tiktok, youtube, twitter, instagram and more! Make sure you subscribe and rate our show to help others find us! Sources: Green, Justice Paul W., “Ex Parte Richard Marvin McFarland…”, Appeal from 226th Judicial District Court, 2003 Gonzalez, John W., “Husband charged with murder…”, Houston Chronicle, 2003 N/A, “Man gets 40 years…”, Midland Reporter-Telegram, 2004 Badger, T.A, “Missing woman's husband…”, Associated Press, 2003. Murphy, Kevin, “McFarland Murder Trial…”, Webster-Kirkwood Times, 2004. N/A, “Susan Burris Smith McFarland”, San Antonio Express-News, 2003. Ratcliffe, Heather, “Former St. Louisan is reported…”, St. Louis Post-Dispatch, 2002. N/A, “Police seek leads…”, St. Louis Post-Dispatch, 2002. O'Neil, Tim, “Home in Texas is checked…”, St. Louis Post-Dispatch, 2002. O'Neil, Tim, “Husband of missing woman…”, St. Louis Post-Dispatch, 2002. O'Neil, Tim, “Relatives of missing woman…”, St. Louis Post-Dispatch, 2002. Kohler, Jeremy, “Man whose wife is missing…”, The Associated Press, 2003. O'Neil, Tim, “Remains in Texas…”, St. Louis Post-Dispatch, 2002. Bogan, Jess and Sandberg, Lisa, “Burned body was…”, San Antonio Express-News, 2003. O'Neil, Tim, “Death of woman from here…”, St. Louis Post-Dispatch, 2002. N/A, “Police schedule autopsy…”, Associated Press, 2003. Warrants Texas Inmate Search Collection of articles Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
The Chief Judge of the 19th Judicial District Court joins the show to explain the need for a gun violence court in East Baton Rouge Parish. Judge Donald Johnson says this could be a model for the rest of the state. Learn how this new court could be a game changer in public safety. Download MP3
A La Vernia man who officials say inappropriately touched his juvenile relative has been sentenced to serve the next 16 years in prison. Judge Russell Wilson of the 218th Judicial District Court on Jan. 24 in Wilson County District Court pronounced the sentence after 64-year-old Virgil William Riley pled nolo contendere — no contest — to a charge of indecency with a child. According to 81st Judicial District Attorney Audrey Louis, Riley was indicted in January 2020 on a charge of two counts of aggravated assault with a child younger than 14, but pled to the lesser charge in exchange...Article Link
A La Vernia man who officials say inappropriately touched his juvenile relative has been sentenced to serve the next 16 years in prison. Judge Russell Wilson of the 218th Judicial District Court on Jan. 24 in Wilson County District Court pronounced the sentence after 64-year-old Virgil William Riley pled nolo contendere — no contest — to a charge of indecency with a child. According to 81st Judicial District Attorney Audrey Louis, Riley was indicted in January 2020 on a charge of two counts of aggravated assault with a child younger than 14, but pled to the lesser charge in exchange...Article Link
Devon Anderson is best known for her time as the District Attorney of Harris County, Houston, Texas. Prior, she was the Judge of the 177th Judicial District Court and an Assistant District Attorney. After growing up in Waco, Texas, she earned her undergraduate degree and Juris Doctorate from the University of Texas. She is presently the Director of Justice Forward, an agency that assists participants in the specialty courts of Harris and Fort Bend Counties. Devon makes her home in Houston, Texas and is the mother of two children.
Judge Chris Morton currently presides over the 230th Judicial District Court in Harris County, Texas. Chris grew up in North Carolina and graduated from the University of North Carolina-Charlotte with a degree in International Business. While attending college, he was also serving in the National Guard. After participating in the work force, Chris moved to Houston and started attending law school at the University of Houston. Upon graduation, he worked at the Harris County District Attorneys' Office, where he practiced for six years, then worked as a defense attorney for five years before running and being elected Judge. Chris and his family live in Houston, Texas.
A Stockdale man who began a sexual relationship with a teen he met online has been sentenced to spend the next two decades of his life in prison. Judge Russell Wilson of the 218th Judicial District Court presided in Wilson County District Court Oct. 10 as a jury found 28-year-old Alexander Ethan Chavez guilty of three counts of sexual assault of a child. Court records indicate that he was sentenced to 20 years for each count, with the sentences to run concurrently. A second similar case against Chavez was dismissed, according to court records. Chavez's victim, who lived in Floresville,...Article Link
Kade Turner, Executive Director of CASA, joins Discover Lafayette to discuss his passion for serving children. He first became involved with CASA in 2017 through the encouragement of former Lafayette City-Parish Councilman Kenneth Boudreaux who was serving as Executive Director of CASA at that time. CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocate. CASA advocates are trained community volunteers appointed by a judge to serve as a child's voice in court. They represent the best interests of abused or neglected children during juvenile court and child protection proceedings. CASA is a nonprofit organization with both private and public funding sources. CASA works on behalf of foster children within the 15th Judicial District Court which encompasses Lafayette, Acadia, and Vermilion Parishes. The Louisiana Children's Code lays out the responsibilities of CASA and its trained volunteers who provide independent, third-party, objective assessments of what they see. Funding is provided by the Louisiana Supreme Court CASA Assistance Program, Victims of Crime Act Funding, the Louisiana Children's Trust Fund, private donations and grants. Approximately 340 children are being assisted by CASA and overseen by the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services. Most of the children in need of care are located right here in Lafayette Parish. Volunteers go through thirty hours of training, serve without compensation, and are appointed by the court exercising juvenile jurisdiction. The judge will verify the volunteer's qualifications, training, and ability to serve as a CASA volunteer, including the ability to represent and advocate for the best interest of the children assigned to him. You must be at least 21 years of age to serve and be able to commit two years of service. No volunteer is assigned until a comprehensive criminal background check has been conducted. A CASA Volunteer spends time with their assigned child or sibling group getting to know the child while also gathering information from the child's family, teachers, doctors, caregivers, and others involved in the child's life. Approximately every six months, a report is prepared for the judge (with help from an assigned Supervisor) sharing recommendations for the child's care. Learn more about volunteering with CASA of SoLA at casaofsola.org. The Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services (“DFCS”) which oversees foster care services has lots of turnover and is short-staffed. CASA provides much-needed resources to help families meet the requirements to get their lives back on track. A study showed that only about 23% of families had the necessary resources to meet the requirements placed upon them by the court to be able to emerge from the system. CASA helps parents sign up for classes, arrange childcare so they can attend court-ordered classes, or provide food for the family for those times that the parent must be away. Kade Turner has worked with CASA of South Louisiana since 2017. He assumed the role of Executive Director in May of 2022. A young man (with his 29th birthday coming up soon!) who has found his calling, Kade serves as an inspiration in our community. Kade has also dedicated his life to helping children with health disorders. For 21 years he has been involved with the Louisiana Lions Camp in Vernon Parish for youth in Louisiana with respiratory disorders, special needs, juvenile diabetes, and childhood cancer. Lions Camp is free for qualifying boys and girls of Louisiana. All campers are sponsored by their local Lions Clubs.
MISSION, Texas - Mission community leader Ester Salinas has announced that final settlement in the long-running lawsuit filed by families impacted by the highly toxic Hayes Sammons agricultural pesticides mixing and receiving plant against numerous chemical companies has been reached.“We won. After 25 years, we're finally getting the final settlement letters from the Hayes Sammons contamination lawsuit. You know we started this case in 1998 and filed our lawsuit in 1999. We've been fighting this for 25 years,” Salinas said.Salinas said 1,300 letters have been sent out as part of the final settlement. She said people have been asked to read the letters and notify the special master in the case - Gil Perales - if their addresses or phone numbers have changed. “I can report there were 1,905 original plaintiffs. Ninety of these were dismissed. An additional 450 are deceased. But, there is still a lot of confusion among the plaintiffs. Many have a lot of questions. The letter says do not make contact with the attorneys.”Salinas said the first settlement, which came through around 18 years ago, resulted in payments to residents totaling between $4 million and $6 million. She said the second settlement was worth between $5 million and $8 million.Salinas is regarded as the Erin Brockovich of the Mission Superfund story, one of the darkest stains in the city's rich history. She first learned that chemicals from the Hayes Sammons site could have seeped into the water system on the south side of the city when she saw men in white Hazmat suits conducting surveys at the mixing and receiving plants.Determining that there was a cancer cluster around the Hayes Sammons plant, Salinas led a team of church goers and community activists in signing up 3,500 residents who either worked at or lived closely to the agricultural pesticides plant, which was situated on the Mexican side of the railroad tacks. The residents signed affidavits that they had family members who had either died of cancer, had brain tumors or miscarriages.In the course of her investigation, Salinas learned the Hayes Sammons plant was listed as a Superfund site at both the national and state level. “In other words it was highly toxic,” Salinas said. Salinas took her evidence first to Mission attorney Mauro Reyna and later Edinburg attorney Ramon Garcia. “Mr. Garcia gave me 30 minutes to pitch my case. After 30 minutes he told me stop. He got three other attorneys and a clerk to come in and start taking notes. The meeting went on for about three hours. He said, I can't believe what you're telling me. I said, I can't believe what I'm witnessing, what I'm learning now.”Garcia filed the lawsuit, which was known as Alicia Acevedo, et al vs. Union Pacific Railroad Company, et al. It was filed in the 332nd Judicial District Court of Hidalgo County in 1999. It was settled out of court a few years later.“I cannot understand why it has taken so long to get the final payments out to the long suffering families of Mission. I think we all need, and deserve, an explanation, either from the judge, the special master or the attorneys, ” Salinas said.Editor's Note: To read the rest of the story go to The Rio Grande Guardian International News Service website.To read the new stories and watch the news videos of the Rio Grande Guardian International News Service go to www.riograndeguardian.com.
On this week's episode, hosts jarrett hill and Tre'vell Anderson give Artificial Intelligence the FANTI treatment. On the plus side, jarrett finds Siri incredibly helpful, and asks her to set alarms for him multiple times a day. But they also share some concerns, like AI bots taking over journalists' jobs or programs making it easier for students to get away with plagiarism. Plus, jarrett and Tre'vell give Janelle Monae her flowers for Age of Pleasure, the new album that's been ruffling feathers since it's been out. And later, our hosts discuss the history that was made this past Sunday at the Tony Awards, as J. Harrison Ghee and Alex Newell become the first openly non - binary actors to ever win a Tony. Mentioned In this Episode J. Harrison Ghee and Alex NewellJanelle MonaeDIS/Honorable Mentions jh:HM: The Sherri ShowHM: Be My Eyes AppHM: Roberto Hannibal, for this tweet.DM, almost a retraction: seeking brother husband, because of this rolling stone piece TAHM: LaQunya Baker - appointed by Colorado governor to the 18th Judicial District Court. County Court Judge in Arapahoe County, a position she has held since 2022.HM: Ncuti Gatwa and his interview in British Vogue Go ahead and @ usEmail: FANTI@maximumfun.orgIG@FANTIpodcast@Jarrett Hill@rayzon (Tre'vell)Twitter@FANTIpodcast@TreVellAnderson@JarrettHill@vivalapalma (Producer, Palmira Muniz) @Swish (Senior Producer Laura Swisher)Laura Swisher is senior producer Music: Cor.eceGraphics: Ashley NguyenFANTI is produced and distributed by MaximumFun.org
America Out Loud PULSE with Dr. Peter McCullough and Malcolm Out Loud – A 2021 lawsuit filed by Baylor Scott and White Health System against world renown internist, cardiologist, and COVID-19 expert Dr. Peter A. McCullough, MD, MPH, has been dismissed by the 191st Judicial District Court, Dallas County, Texas.
America Out Loud PULSE with Dr. Peter McCullough and Malcolm Out Loud – A 2021 lawsuit filed by Baylor Scott and White Health System against world renown internist, cardiologist, and COVID-19 expert Dr. Peter A. McCullough, MD, MPH, has been dismissed by the 191st Judicial District Court, Dallas County, Texas.
The judicial system is overburdened for a number of reasons, and greater efficiency is a must if court systems are to achieve their important objectives. Technology and openness to all that it offers is a key solution, something that was tried, tested and proven during the Covid pandemic which closed courthouses and law offices around the nation. Along with technology, improvements can be made by reexamining their orthodoxies about how things should be done based on decades of "that's how we've always done it." This is a matter of importance to judges, lawyers, plaintiffs, defendants, and numerous others whose lives are impacted directly or indirectly when either the civil or criminal justice systems are inefficient, cumbersome, costly, confusing, slow, and even inaccessible. If only we had an example of at least one judge who is trying to do something about it. But wait ...Listen to my interview with the Hon. Scott Schlegel who presides over criminal civil and domestic matters in Louisiana's 24th Judicial District Court in Jefferson Parish. Judge Schlegel was elected to the bench in 2013, and quickly earned a reputation as a modern judge using technology to bring his court into the digital age, even before the pandemic forced the change on other jurists. He partnered with tech companies to develop efficiency tools like chat bots and online forms software. He launched courtonline.us and onlinejudge.us to consolidate his processes for the public. Judge Schlegel has received numerous awards and accolades, like the National Center for State Courts' 26th Annual William H. Rehnquist Award for Judicial Excellence. He was the American Bar Association's 2021 Legal Rebel. And he received the Fastcase 50 Award for his innovative approaches to the administration of justice. Prior to becoming a judge, he was a prosecutor and litigator. Judge Schlegel graduated with honors from Loyola University New Orleans College of Law. This podcast is the audio companion to the Journal on Emerging Issues in Litigation. The Journal is a collaborative project between HB Litigation Conferences and the Fastcase legal research family, which includes Full Court Press, Law Street Media, and Docket Alarm. The podcast itself is a joint effort between HB and our friends at Law Street Media. If you have comments or wish to participate in one our projects please drop me a note at Editor@LitigationConferences.com.Tom HagyLitigation Enthusiast andHost of the Emerging Litigation PodcastHome PageLinkedIn
The 19th Judicial District Court in Baton Rouge is launching a new drug recovery program as part of an effort to provide supervised treatment for offenders grappling with substance abuse issues. Chief judge of the 19th Judicial District Court Donald R. Johnson and program coordinator Cheryl Wyatt tells us more about this new recovery-focused initiative is re-imagining traditional “drug court.” Every year, the advocacy group RIDE puts out a report on the state public transportation system in New Orleans. And this year, between new routes, to a new app, to new fares, there's a lot to discuss. New Orleans reporter Carly Berlin sat down with RIDE's Executive Director, Courtney Jackson, and their Youth Community Organizer and Storyteller, August Green, to learn more about the city's state of transit. Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and because many families across the country will soon have their kitchens full of turkeys in the oven and cranberry sauce on the stove, we thought it might be a good time to revisit a conversation on injury prevention in the kitchen – a problem that is far more common than many realize. Earlier this year, Louisiana Children's Hospital hosted an event to promote cooking safety and burn accident prevention. Louisiana Considered's Alana Schreiber, who was in attendance, brings us the story. Today's episode of Louisiana Considered was hosted by Adam Vos. Our managing producer is Alana Schreiber and our digital editor is Katelyn Umholtz. Our engineers are Garrett Pittman, Aubry Procell, and Thomas Walsh. You can listen to Louisiana Considered Monday through Friday at 12:00 and 7:30 pm. It's available on Spotify, Google Play, and wherever you get your podcasts. Louisiana Considered wants to hear from you! Please fill out our pitch line to let us know what kinds of story ideas you have for our show. And while you're at it, fill out our listener survey! We want to keep bringing you the kinds of conversations you'd like to listen to. Louisiana Considered is made possible with support from our listeners. Thank you!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
IANR 2241 100822 Line Up 3pm IAN UNPLUGGED Jay & Sridhar play the current affairs quiz “I Think I Know This” with Mohan Rao, Ronga Kandoor & Rohan Bavadekar Here's the guest line-up for Sat, Oct 8, 2022 from 4 to 6pm CST on Indo American News Radio (www.IndoAmerican-news.com), a production of Indo American News. We are on 98.7 FM and you can also listen on the masalaradio app (www.masalaradio.com) By Monday, hear the recorded show on Podcast uploaded on Spotify, Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/indo-american-news-radio-houston-tx/id1512586620 ) Google Podcasts, Pocket Casts, Radio Public and Breaker. SUBSCRIBE TO OUR FREE PODCAST CHANNEL TO BE NOTIFIED OF THE NEW UPDATE & THEN JUST CLICK TO LISTEN!! 4:20 pm The adage “Stay active, Live longer” could not be more appropriate applied for anyone than Dilip Desai. At 80 years of age, he is a champ in the Senior Olympics in Table Tennis and still tours across the US to compete in tournaments. He has even taught former Houston Rockets great Hakim Olajuwon a few tricks of the game! He is in the studio with us today with his two sons Dr Alpesh and Dr Tejas, both dermatologists, to talk about his amazing and varied life. 5:00 pm The campaign trail in Ft Bend County has been hit by vandals defacing yard signs and even removing some placed along public right of ways, especially in Richmond. It happened two years ago also but was not as rampant. Ft Bend District Attorney Brian Middleton joins us today to talk about the investigations into the culprits and what charges they could face. 5:20 pm Surendran Pattel is a very persistent and determined man who is in his second election race in two years, this time for Judge for the 240th Judicial District Court. He fought a hard primary campaign this March and has been doggedly block walking with his volunteers getting his word out. He calls in from the campaign trail! Also stay tuned in for news roundup, views, sports and movie reviews TO BE FEATURED ON THE SHOW, OR TO ADVERTISE, PLEASE CONTACT US AT 713-789-6397 or at indoamericannews@yahoo.com --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/indo-american-news-radio/support
The pandemic was a driver for change in justice systems around the globe, but one court's innovative and inexpensive approach is worth a closer look. Judge Scott Schlegel manages what may be one of the most advanced courts in the United States for delivering justice online. Tune in for his tips on how any jurisdiction in the country can modernize its justice system for under a thousand dollars. Go to https://www.onlinejudge.us/ for all of Judge Schlegel's recommendations. Judge Scott U. Schlegel was elected to the 24th Judicial District Court in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana in May 2013. He currently serves as the President of the Louisiana District Judges Association and Chair of the Louisiana Supreme Court Technology Commission.
The pandemic was a driver for change in justice systems around the globe, but one court's innovative and inexpensive approach is worth a closer look. Judge Scott Schlegel manages what may be one of the most advanced courts in the United States for delivering justice online. Tune in for his tips on how any jurisdiction in the country can modernize its justice system for under a thousand dollars. Go to https://www.onlinejudge.us/ for all of Judge Schlegel's recommendations. Judge Scott U. Schlegel was elected to the 24th Judicial District Court in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana in May 2013. He currently serves as the President of the Louisiana District Judges Association and Chair of the Louisiana Supreme Court Technology Commission.
In this week's episode, Sigalle interviews the Honorable Judge Scott Schlegel, elected to the bench of the 24th Judicial District Court for the Parish of Jefferson, Division D, State of Louisiana. Judge Schlegel shares his journey from civil litigator to felony prosecutor before being elected to the bench. His insightful interview reveals how understanding workflows, leveraging technology, and being persistent, can help make major improvements to the justice system. Visit Onlinejudge.us to learn more.
December 27th, 2010. Colorado City, Texas. 13 year old Hailey Dunn is reported missing. Her mother's partner told police she had left that afternoon to stay at a friends house. But Hailey, hadn't turned up there and was nowhere to be found.What happened to Hailey Dunn?DECEMBER 2021/JANUARY 2022 UPDATE (CONTAINS SPOILERS)- Indictments came down on December 30th, 2021, in the 32nd Judicial District Court and showed Shawn Casey Adkins is accused of striking Hailey Dunn in the head with an unknown object causing her death. This is the first mention of a cause of death from any official or court document since Hailey's body was found. Shawn Adkins is now indicted on charges of murder and tampering with physical evidence by intentionally and knowingly concealing a human corpse. https://www.kcbd.com/2022/01/03/shawn-adkins-indicted-murder-tampering-with-evidence-charges-hailey-dunn-case/Sources
Heather Blanchard, Executive Director of Court Appointed Special Advocates of South Louisiana ("CASA") joins Discover Lafayette to discuss their mission to help children and families when there has been abuse or neglect. Heather is a passionate spokesperson for CASA, having first served the organization in her first job after college, then served on its board for six years, and returning to lead as Executive Director. CASA of South Louisiana is now partnered with the United Way of Acadiana and housed in its office to more effectively leverage its resources. "CASA volunteers are the eyes and ears for the judge. They work with the families, the teachers, and the counselors. Ultimately they write a report to the judge on what is happening in the child's life and recommend where they should be permanently placed." CASA works to break the cycle of child abuse and neglect. Through its volunteers, CASA advocates for safe, permanent, and nurturing homes for children who through no fault of their own have been removed from their homes and must rely upon the court to decide their future. CASA of South Louisiana works within the 15th Judicial District Court which encompasses Lafayette, Acadia, and Vermilion Parishes. The Louisiana Children's Code lays out the responsibilities of CASA and its trained volunteers who provide independent, third-party, objective assessments of what they see. Funding is provided by the Louisiana Supreme Court CASA Assistance Program, Victims of Crime Act Funding, the Louisiana Children's Trust Fund, and grants. Volunteers go through thirty hours of training, serve without compensation, and are appointed by the court exercising juvenile jurisdiction. The judge of the court will verify the volunteer's qualifications, training, and ability to serve as a CASA volunteer, including the ability to represent and advocate for the best interest of the children assigned to him. No volunteer is assigned until a comprehensive criminal background check has been conducted. When asked who the 'best' volunteers are, Heather jokingly said, "Our best volunteers are retired teachers. They've seen and worked with all different walks of life so they are very understanding." A CASA Volunteer spends time with their assigned child or sibling group getting to know the child while also gathering information from the child's family, teachers, doctors, caregivers, and others involved in the child's life. Approximately every six months, a report is prepared for the judge (with help from an assigned Supervisor) sharing recommendations for the child's care. Learn more about volunteering with CASA of SoLA at casaofsola.org. Heather stressed that nine times out of ten, a child is better off with their family of origin. When they enter the foster care system, the first goal is always reunification with their family. Children aren't normally removed from their families unless there is harm involved, as removing a child from their home is very traumatic. In some cases, CASA volunteers assist in the family home to monitor circumstances and provide resources. Heather gave one example of a mom who had her children taken away because at meal time she would throw potato chips on the floor. "She didn't know better. That is how she was raised. She needed training and support. She loved her children but didn't know better." The Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services ("DFCS") which oversees foster care services has lots of turnover and is short-staffed. CASA provides much-needed resources to help families meet the requirements to get their lives back on track. A study showed that only about 23% of families had the necessary resources to meet the requirements placed upon them by the court to be able to emerge from the system. CASA helps parents sign up for classes, arrange childcare so they can attend court-ordered classes, or provide food for the family for those times that the parent must be away.
On this episode of Bracewell Covered, Bracewell partner Joe Cox shares stories from his time on the bench with host Vince Morgan. Joe is a former judge in the 160th Judicial District Court of the State of Texas. Joe is known for combining his skills of representing clients in a variety of industries with his straightforward approach, outgoing personality and deft courtroom demeanor. Clients appreciate the tactics he brings to jury and bench trials and appellate matters, representing them in complex financial and commercial disputes as well as class actions.
NMiF senior producer Matt Grubs talks about New Mexico's pretrial detention conundrum with the director of the Administrative Office of the Courts, Artie Pepin. The office recently asked UNM social researchers to evaluate the 2nd Judicial District Court's (Bernalillo County) effectiveness at keeping the right people free until trial, an innocence-before-guilt approach reinforced with a voter-approved 2016 change to the state constitution. While prosecutors and police say New Mexicans are safer with more people locked up as they await a decision on their innocence, Pepin says the study suggests otherwise. Source New Mexico launched it's website more than a month ago. An independent, nonprofit news organization, the organization says it's goal is to shine a light on governments, policies and public officials so readers get the information they need to make choices. We get more on the Source's mission and meet the editorial team (taken from a Facebook Live event). Host Gene Grant Correspondent Matt Grubs Guests: Artie Pepin, director, Administrative Office of the Courts Marisa DeMarco, Source NM Austin Fisher, Source NM Shaun Griswold, Source NM Pat Lohmann, Source NM Chris Fitzimmon, States Newsroom
Joy! Joy in our creation and the influence of Joy on the way we live our lives! Guest: Judge Kirsten Cohoon - Judge of the 451st Judicial District Court. God and Our Dogs airs every Saturday at 9am on Boerne Radio 103.9FM - www.boerneradio.com. Host: Meg Grier - Stories@GodAndOurDogs.com Website: www.GodAndOurDogs.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Discover why Justice Ken Wise (a judge for Place 7 of the Texas Fourteenth District Court of Appeals, and Founder of the Wise About Texas podcast) claims it's important for any leader to study history, and how his blind spot led him to push the reset button (11 minutes). CEO BLINDSPOTS PODCAST GUEST: Justice Ken Wise, Founder of the Wise About Texas podcast. Justice Ken Wise was appointed to the 14th Court of Appeals by Governor Rick Perry in October 2013. Prior to his appointment, Justice Wise served as the judge of the 334th Judicial District Court, administrative judge of Harris County, and an adjunct professor at the University of Houston Law Center. Justice Wise is also a former judge of the 152nd Judicial District Court in Harris County. Ken Wise is a judge for Place 7 of the Texas Fourteenth District Court of Appeals. His current term ends on December 31, 2026. Justice Wise started the Wise About Texas podcast to preserve and promote Texas history. It has become an award-winning podcast with over 800,000 downloads in over 150 countries. In addition, Justice Wise received the honor of being recognized by the House of Representatives on the occasion of the 100th Episode of Wise About Texas; https://capitol.texas.gov/tlodocs/87R/billtext/html/HR00965I.htm For more information about Justice Ken Wise and the Wise About Texas podcast, visit; http://wiseabouttexas.com/ You can email Justice Ken Wise at host@wiseabouttexas.com CEO BLINDSPOTS HOST: Birgit Kamps. She was speaking five languages by the age of 10, and lived in five countries with her Dutch parents prior to becoming an American citizen. Birgit's professional experience includes starting and selling HireSynergy LLC, an “Inc. 500 Fastest Growing Private Company” and a “Best Company to Work for in Texas”, and serving as a Board Member with various companies. In addition, Birgit is the President of Hire Universe LLC, and the host of the CEO Blindspots podcast which was recognized in 2020 by Spotify for having the “biggest listener growth” in the USA (by 733%), and having listeners in 11 countries; https://ceoblindspots.com/
As Texas has lightened its COVID-related restrictions ahead of many other states, courts around the state are making plans to or have already opened their doors to resume in-person court proceedings. As this process moves forward, how are jurors, litigants, and the many other people involved kept safe? State Bar of Texas podcast host Rocky Dhir talks with Judge Maricela Moore about what her court, the George Allen Courthouse in Dallas, is doing to ensure safety and what challenges they face related to changing mandates, individual juror concerns, and many other considerations. Judge Moore also discusses the use of Zoom, her take on its role in the future of the judiciary, and when she thinks it does and doesn't work for court proceedings. Judge Maricela Moore is the presiding judge of the 162nd Judicial District Court of Dallas County and the local administrative district judge
As Texas has lightened its COVID-related restrictions ahead of many other states, courts around the state are making plans to or have already opened their doors to resume in-person court proceedings. As this process moves forward, how are jurors, litigants, and the many other people involved kept safe? State Bar of Texas podcast host Rocky Dhir talks with Judge Maricela Moore about what her court, the George Allen Courthouse in Dallas, is doing to ensure safety and what challenges they face related to changing mandates, individual juror concerns, and many other considerations. Judge Moore also discusses the use of Zoom, her take on its role in the future of the judiciary, and when she thinks it does and doesn't work for court proceedings. Judge Maricela Moore is the presiding judge of the 162nd Judicial District Court of Dallas County and the local administrative district judge
As Texas has lightened its COVID-related restrictions ahead of many other states, courts around the state are making plans to or have already opened their doors to resume in-person court proceedings. As this process moves forward, how are jurors, litigants, and the many other people involved kept safe? State Bar of Texas podcast host Rocky Dhir talks with Judge Maricela Moore about what her court, the George Allen Courthouse in Dallas, is doing to ensure safety and what challenges they face related to changing mandates, individual juror concerns, and many other considerations. Judge Moore also discusses the use of Zoom, her take on its role in the future of the judiciary, and when she thinks it does and doesn't work for court proceedings. Judge Maricela Moore is the presiding judge of the 162nd Judicial District Court of Dallas County and the local administrative district judge
On October 7, 2020, the Supreme Court heard oral argument in Ford Motor Company v. Montana Eight Judicial Circuit Court. The issue presented was whether the “arise out of or relate to” requirement for a state court to exercise specific personal jurisdiction over a nonresident defendant under Burger King Corp. v. Rudzewicz is met when none of the defendant’s forum contacts caused the plaintiff’s claims, such that the plaintiff’s claims would be the same even if the defendant had no forum contacts.Karen Harned, Executive Director at National Federation of Independent Business Small Business Legal Center and Jaime A. Santos, Partner at Goodwin Procter LLP, join us today to discuss this case's oral argument.
In Part I of the series “2020 Elections Impacts on the Administration of Justice,” In Our Own Defense Podcast co-hosts Dr. Dolores Tarver and Attorney A.D. Winters are joined by Attorney Quintillis Lawrence, Judicial Candidate for the 19th Judicial District Court, who is discussing criteria that voters can consider when evaluating candidates for the judiciary as well as exploring sovereign immunity in government entities.
In Part II of the series “2020 Elections Impacts on the Administration of Justice,” Attorney Quintillis Lawrence, Judicial Candidate for the 19th Judicial District Court, joins In Our Own Defense Podcast co-hosts Dr. Dolores Tarver and Attorney A.D. Winters to discuss the importance of judiciary elections, “creative sentences,” and Veterans Court.
In the 3rd and final installment of the series “2020 Elections Impacts on the Administration of Justice” Attorney Quintillis Lawrence, Judicial Candidate for the 19th Judicial District Court, shares with In Our Own Defense Podcast co-hosts Dr. Dolores Tarver, Attorney A.D. Winters, and our community recommendations for reducing judicial bias, identifying the most qualified judiciary candidates, and being an informed voter.
In an ongoing series of interviews with candidates for local races, I sat down with Ms. Natalie Broussard. She's running for the 16th Judicial District Court, Division F, covering Iberia, […]
Liability in motor vehicle accidents is frequently an issue necessitating litigation, but not typically at the level of the Supreme Court. In this case, though, two incidents rose all the way to our highest court. In a Minnesota accident, a passenger driving a Ford vehicle suffered severe brain injury when the passenger-side airbags failed to deploy during an accident. Ford found itself in another case, this time in Montana, involving a vehicle's tread/belt separation and resulting in fatality for the driver. Despite their efforts to dismiss these claims by citing a lack of personal jurisdiction, the state courts and state supreme courts in both cases affirmed the ruling of liability and negligence on the part of Ford Motor Company. The Supreme Court will now decide whether the "arise out of or relate to" requirement of the Fourteenth Amendment's due process clause permits a state court to exercise specific personal jurisdiction over a nonresident. Featuring:Karen Harned, Executive Director, National Federation of Independent Business Small Business Legal CenterJaime A. Santos, Partner, Goodwin Procter LLP Teleforum calls are open to all dues paying members of the Federalist Society. To become a member, sign up on our website. As a member, you should receive email announcements of upcoming Teleforum calls which contain the conference call phone number. If you are not receiving those email announcements, please contact us at 202-822-8138.
A case in which the Court held that the connection between plaintiffs' product-liability claims arising from car accidents occurring in each plaintiff's state of residence and Ford's activities in those states is sufficient to support specific jurisdiction in the respective state courts, even though the automobiles involved in the accidents were manufactured and sold elsewhere.
A case in which the Court will decide whether a state court may exercise personal jurisdiction over a nonresident defendant when none of the defendant’s contacts with that state caused the plaintiff’s claims.
Daniel "Danny" Landry, candidate for District Attorney for the 15th Judicial District Court (covering Lafayette, Acadia, and Vermilion parishes), joined Discover Lafayette to discuss the upcoming election on November 3, 2020, and the reasons he has always wanted to serve the public as their District Attorney. A lifelong Lafayette resident, Landry is a graduate of Lafayette High, LSU, and LSU Law School, and has worked for the DA's office since 1984 where he served as Felony Assistant DA in the 15th JDC for over 35 years. In his early days with the office, DA Nathan Stansbury took him under his wing, mentored him, and demonstrated the leadership qualities that have shaped Landry's career and molded his work ethic with a focus on public service. Landry currently serves as First Assistant DA under the current District Attorney, Keith Stutes, who is not running for re-election. His job duties include supervising budget and management operations of the DA’s office, and prosecution of major cases. The office has close to 100 employees and works to administer and prosecute misdemeanors and felony offenses, which are "Title 14" crimes under the criminal code. Funded through 14 different sources of revenue, Landry believes that public safety issues should be a top priority. "If you have good public safety in a community, people want to come in, locate their businesses and homes there. Arts and culture can thrive." Landry is particularly proud of the case management system he implemented which "brought the DA's office into the 21st Century." With 26 law enforcement agencies throughout Lafayette, Acadia, and Vermilion parishes reporting to the DA's office, under the pre-existing paper-based filing system it was possible for arrest documents to be "lost" or fall through the cracks. Utilizing the new electronic tracking system for the past four years, the DA is now better able to meet the mandated 30-day review of charges, keep track of the average prison sentences meted out for crimes by judges, respond to calls from the public, and keep the entire justice system accountable to the public. Danny Landry with his wife, Nancy, and their children Morgan, Kelly and Chris. Landry also serves as the Pretrial Intervention Director which is designed to assist first-time offenders to examine the underlying reasons for their criminal behavior, such as socioeconomic circumstances, mental health issues, or lacking access to needed resources. He explained that many overlapping issues can lead to survival reactions such as a young woman in poverty stealing diapers for her newborn or a boy stealing bread and lunch meat because no one is taking care of him at home. These non-violent offenders don't need to be incarcerated but they do need direction and guidance counseling to get their lives on a better course to keep them from returning to the justice system. Known for his work on major felony cases that garnered national interest, Landry reminisced about the Mickey Shunick murder investigation that "out of all the investigations and prosecutions, was one of the best executed I've ever been involved with." Thousands of tips were gathered and the team of Stutes, Landry, Alan Haney, and Roger Hamilton coordinated with many law enforcement agencies that led them to forensic evidence pointing to Brandon Lavergne, who they determined had also killed another person. Mickey Shunick's remains were unearthed in Evangeline Parish behind a pauper's graveyard. "If you had to write a book about how to prosecute, this was the case. Mickey was finally returned to her family." Danny Landry, along with DA Keith Stutes, as they interview on NBC Dateline discussing the prosecution of Brandon Lavergne in the Mickey Shunick murder case. "If you had to write a book about how to prosecute, this was the case. Mickey was finally returned to her family." Landry is proud to work with the capable law enforcement agencies in our area.
Chris Cox is running for Judge, Division "B" of the 24th Judicial District Court in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana. He has served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney, an Assistant District Attorney, the Chief Operating Officer of Jefferson Parish, and an adjunct professor of law. He has handled hundreds of cases that have resulted in guilty pleas, but what he believes qualifies him for this position is the amount of courtroom experience that he has gained, having actually tried sixty-six jury trials in state and federal courts combined.
Michele Billeaud, candidate for 15th Judicial District Court Judge in Lafayette Parish joined Jan Swift of the Discover Lafayette podcast. The election will be held on November 3, 2020, and is slated to have a high turnout as it coincides with many other local races such as District Attorney, City Marshall, and of course, the presidential election. Billeaud is running for Judge in Division "K" which has 115,000 registered voters and encompasses Youngsville, Broussard, most of Scott and Duson, and a majority of the City of Lafayette located south of Cameron Street. https://www.facebook.com/101349674790880/videos/580285362690022 Michele Billeaud explains what areas encompass Division K in Lafayette Parish. Billeaud started her legal career 26 years ago. A New Orleans native, she took time off after college to follow her best friend and move out to California. While the adventure was fun, she realized that she needed to figure out "what to do with her life." She studied law in California and on the day she graduated, returned home to study and take the Louisiana bar exam. Billeaud's first job was in the Orleans Parish DA’s Office where she had a heavy caseload and gained invaluable experience trying all levels of criminal cases. While working there, she met Lawrence "Moose" Billeaud, a Lafayette native. The couple dated long-distance before she moved to Lafayette when they got married. While Moose is one of 17 children in the close-knit and loving family of the late Bozo and Millie Billeaud, he told Michele they could live anywhere she wanted; Michele had fallen in love with Lafayette when she visited and elected to start their married life here. The couple have two children, Ethan and Quinn. Michele and Lawrence "Moose" Billeaud with their children, Ethan and Quinn. Billeaud joined the law firm of Lisa Brener in Lafayette and handled civil matters such as divorce, child custody, age discrimination, and sexual harassment claims. Upon Brener's retirement, Billaud started her own law firm; she also worked for the Lafayette Parish Public Defender's Office where she was appointed Section Chief in charge of all full-time public defenders as a result of the extensive criminal law experience she had garnered in the Orleans DA's office. Since January 2002, Billeaud has worked as an Assistant District Attorney in Lafayette Parish. She serves as felony track leader, trying everything from felony theft to the most violent crimes. A founding team member of the Lafayette Parish Drug Court Program, Billeaud is "a big proponent of specialty courts." The drug court helps nonviolent offenders get back on track by getting appropriate treatment, obtain job training, find employment, adequate shelter, and other things necessary to turn their lives around. She believes that anytime you can help someone help themselves, it's good for our community. Billeaud recounted that she's seen people she previously tried cases against show up in court to help others get into drug court so that they may also become a healthy, contributing member of society. Under the direction of Judge Jules Edwards, Lafayette has also set up a Veteran's specialty Court; Billeaud would also like to see the addition of a Mental Health Court to help those most vulnerable and who end up in jail due to a lack of resources to obtain help. Billeaud loves being in court and says the most fun part of being an attorney is" having to think on your feet." She enjoys being a prosecutor and feels a calling for public service and working in the public sector. She never thought about running for judge. But when the current Division "K" Judge Rick Michot was rendered incapable of running for re-election due to the Louisiana age requirement, she was approached by others who encouraged her to run. Billeaud believes she brings the necessary experience to the table to serve the community as a judge, as well as the appropriate temperament to be a good jud...
Khady-Emilia Doumbia is a 2L at the University of Houston Law Center, with an undergraduate degree from the University of Alberta. Khady-Emilia is also a judicial intern for Judge Payne in the 55th Judicial District Court in Harris County, Texas. In this First Gen Story, Khady-Emilia explains what “First Gen” means to her, how that shapes her law school experience, and the sacrifices she's had to make on her path to becoming the first lawyer in her family—like attending law school in a new country, in a new culture, and studying the law in her non-native language. Khady-Emilia also provides honest advice to our listeners about the importance of finding a mentor that you trust and feel comfortable talking to, even if it means reaching out to someone you don't know. For Khady-Emilia, this meant taking a leap of faith and reaching out on social media to one of her role models. Khady-Emilia's journey to find her mentor reminds our First Gen listeners that once you find someone who will go to war for you, everything can change, and anything is possible.
Marc Carter presided over the 228th Judicial District Court in Harris County, (Houston), Texas for 16 years. While he was on the bench he created the first Veterans Court in Texas, which, along with many other accomplishments in criminal justice reform, led to him receiving numerous local, state, and national awards and honors. Marc received his undergraduate degree form the University of Texas and his law degree from Texas Southern University. He also obtained the rank of captain in the Army. He presently engages in the private practice of law in Houston, Texas. He is married with two daughters and one grandchild.
Judge Jules Edwards has served in the 15th Judicial District Court for 27 years. He joined Jan Swift of Discover Lafayette to discuss what he's learned from working in the state court system and his concomitant desire to help at-risk youth address behavioral problems before they end up in jail. Judge Edwards is a candidate for Lafayette City Court Judge in the upcoming election on November 3, 2020. A native of New Orleans and a graduate of Loyola and Loyola Law School, Jules Edwards has served as a Judge for the 15th Judicial District Court since January 1, 1993. He has been a pioneer in effectively rehabilitating offenders and turning around lives through drug courts and re-entry courts. Judge Edwards thanked his parents for stressing servant leadership and the importance of obtaining an education. Jules Edwards, Jr., father of Judge Jules Edwards III, operated Edwards Shoe Service in New Orleans. He would famously say, "I will heel you, I will save your soul, I will even dye for you!" Judge Edwards has distinguished himself with lifelong service to our country, state, and community. He enlisted in the U. S. Marine Corps Reserve in the summer of his freshman year in college in 1977; he served in the Louisiana National Guard until 2007, retiring as a Colonel and recognized as the best Staff Judge Advocate in the United States. At the request of Major General Gary Whipple of Louisiana, Edwards served as Inspector General, working to ensure that the units were following proper procedures. He credits his time in the military for building his character, teaching him discipline, and instilling honor and integrity into his daily actions. "Serving in the U. S. Marine Corps Reserve taught me perseverance and how to work well with others in a selfless manner. At times, the relentless challenges we faced in training were overwhelming, but I learned that I could get through each moment, one moment at a time. " A former Chair of the Louisiana Judiciary Commission, Edwards was inducted into the Louisiana Justice Hall of Fame in 2013. He is Past-President of the Louisiana District Judges Association. Edwards is currently a member of the Advisory Council on Heroin and Opioid Prevention and Education, and a Member of the Louisiana Drug Policy Board. He has worked with the Louisiana Sentencing Commission to assist the judiciary and the legislature in formulating and implementing a uniform sentencing policy to ensure that judges throughout Louisiana provide consistency in their rulings. Edwards has created and taught classes through the Judicial College to train judges on how to utilize evidence-based practices, and how to respond to people in highly charged environments by being attentive and respectful. Judge Jules D. Edwards, III is married to Orida Broussard Edwards, and they have three adult children. His wife, Orida, has been practicing law since 1986, daughter Juliesa has been practicing law since 2016, daughter-in-law, Brittany started her practice in 2019, youngest son Julien is a financial advisor, and oldest son Jules, IV is a veteran, student, and co-owner of a small business. Anytime a person is arrested in Lafayette Parish on a drug charge, they are assigned to Judge Edwards' Court. His goal is to nudge the drug offender from "'The Road to Perdition' to the road to success." He shared that "one of the principal difficulties in society is that we don't do an adequate job of socializing, there is no focused effort to develop young people's character. While this is not done on purpose, they make decisions based upon what brings pleasure at that moment. They don't think about eventual pain or how their behavior impacts others. But there are evidence-based procedures to get someone back on track." He further states, "It is important not to judge a person just because of the stupidest decision they make on the worst day of their life. People grow, they do change."
Marilyn Castle, Chief Judge of the 15th Judicial District Court covering Lafayette, Acadia, and Vermilion Parishes, joined Jan Swift on Discover Lafayette to discuss how the operations of the courthouse have been impacted due to the pandemic shutdown. Judge Castle received her Juris Doctorate from LSU in 1976 and then served early in her career as an Assistant DA. From 1979 until her election to the bench in November 1998, her practice focused primarily in the areas of business and commercial litigation. She has served as President of the Lafayette Parish Bar Association and is active in her community both in her church at Asbury United Methodist Church and the Bonaparte Mardi Gras Krewe. No stranger to leading during times of crisis, Judge Castle also served as Chief Judge during 2005 in the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The pandemic, however, has altered operations in the courthouse in ways no one has ever experienced and which called for unparalleled crisis management. Lafayette Parish Sheriff Mark Garber took swift steps to close off the jail facility from outside traffic in his effort to keep the prisoners safe from the coronavirus, which actions have prevented an outbreak in the jail. Any new arrestees are put under a fourteen-day quarantine. No inmates have left the facility to appear in court, and the number of visitors going into the jail has been extremely limited. Most "court" appearances by prisoners have been conducted by video conference, although under Lousiana law some appearances, such as sentencing, must be conducted in person. Glass partitions separate the prisoners from visitors such as Judge Castle, and all visitors have to have their temperature checked before entering. Prisoners are separated in smaller numbers into pods to cut down exposure from the greater population. From March 16, 2020 until the courthouse reopened for general business on May 18, 2020, all hearings were conducted by video, except for emergency hearings involving juvenile matters or for people seeking protective orders. Staff worked from home, and there were no in-court, in-person proceedings except for the emergency matters mentioned herein. A large number of criminal court appearances such as pre-trial matters, criminal trials, and rules originally scheduled to take place during the shutdown were missed, and people whose hearings were postponed are now mandated to go to the courthouse to receive "re-service of their summons" to obtain their new date of criminal hearing, as outlined in the 15TH JDC Phase 1 Order. Based upon the alphabet according to the individual's last name, the dates to visit the courthouse for this mandated re-service are as follows: A - I: Tuesday, May 26; J - Q: Wednesday, May 27; and R - Z: Thursday, May 28. Large tents will be set up on the E. Main side of the courthouse and people will be directed to the service desk by a bailiff. People who fail to show up can expect a sheriff's deputy at their door with a bench warrant for their arrest. People whose criminal hearings were postponed are now mandated to go to the courthouse to receive "re-service of their summons" to obtain a new date for their criminal hearing, as outlined in the 15TH JDC Phase 1 Order. Pictured: Chief Judge Marilyn C. Castle speaking at City Hall. Wednesday, May 13, 2020. (Photo: SCOTT CLAUSE/USA TODAY Network) Most of the civil trials that were scheduled during the shutdown have been reset for later this year. The majority of cases heard by the court are criminal in nature and the judges are having to work out how juries will be selected and how they will accommodate the spacing issues involved. Only a few courtrooms have a large enough capacity to seat jurors six feet apart, and the size of jury pools will be limited; people called for jury duty will not have to worry that they will be packed tightly in a small room with 100 or more people. Attorneys will have to pay close attention to prescrip...
This week on the Jefferson Parish Pulse, we spoke with the Honorable Scott U. Schlegel, a judge for the 24th Judicial District Court in Jefferson Parish. With Judge Schlegel's guidance, the Jefferson Parish justice system has continued to move forward - even during the pandemic. Judge Schlegel talked about the types of technology being implemented in his court, how it has impacted his cases and what we can expect in the court system as we move into new phases of reopening the economy. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.
Joining me on today’s show Judge Amber Givens. Presiding Judge of the 282nd Judicial District Court in Dallas County, Texas. As a former Assistant District Attorney, She witnessed firsthand the issues plaguing our legal system. She has committed her entire career to public service and feels compelled to continue serving in a capacity that provides the needed leadership to ensure justice and equality for all. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Getting a rare peek into an often overlooked corner of the legal profession, host Rocky Dhir sits down with Judge Roy Ferguson to discuss the social challenges that arise after becoming a judge. Ranging from how lawyers and laypeople should address a judge in public to the impacts ascending to the bench has on friends and family, Judge Ferguson talks about the lesser known impacts that most new judges don’t anticipate and few outsiders can truly understand. Judge Roy B. Ferguson presides over Texas’ 394th Judicial District Court. Special thanks to our sponsor, LawPay.
Judge Roy B. Ferguson, Judicial District Judge for the Texas 394th district, sees lawyers make mistakes, but three in particular have caught his attention. Judge Ferguson talks with host Rocky Dhir at the State Bar of Texas 2019 Annual Meeting about how lawyers can render a judgment void by mishandling citation by publication, default judgement, and failing to correct mistakes made in judgments. Judge Roy B. Ferguson presides over Texas’ 394th Judicial District Court. Special thanks to our sponsor, LawPay.
A rich discussion around achieving timely permanency for children in care. Guests on this podcast include: Justice Brian Boatright from the Colorado Supreme Court, Jan James, Director of Child & Family Services in Adams County Colorado, Judge Gail Meinster, District Court Judge for the 1st Judicial District Court of Colorado, and Pax Moultrie, former Assistant County Attorney in Arapahoe County Colorado and now a magistrate in Jefferson County. The series is facilitated by Charmaine Brittain, and produced by Sarah Roman.
Judge Amber Givens-Davis is the Presiding Judge of the 282nd Judicial District Court in Dallas County and making BIG changes happen for her community. She also is the founder of The Empowerment Program, Word of Mouth Series and CoFounder of The Purpose Project. Yes, she's an ultra high achiever, but her passion for making sustainable community programs and improvements is undeniable. She embodies her mantra, "Justice and Equality for All" on the daily, and inspires her community and constituency to do the same. Currently, she's running for re-election, and has shared her journey to the judicial system in hopes to inspire young females to follow in her footsteps. Judge Amber hosts AMAZING events and programs around Dallas, be sure to attend the next one: http://www.ambergivens.com/ Instagram/Twitter @judgeambergivensdavis Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ambergivensforjudge/ _____________________________________________ Our Podcast is now on SPOTIFY!! Click Here More Podcasts, Videos and Articles of other Rebel Role Models at: www.rebelrolemodel.com Follow Us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Snap, Linked @RebelRoleModel Click here to watch our YouTube Video Interviews! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfn_Q-6wM4e-6VN0-X0fN0Q
"Ganey Arsement is a Calcasieu Parish educator who became an education advocate thanks to two men — Bobby Jindal and John White. Jindal began his second term in 2012 with a ferocious attack against public education, public school teachers and local school boards. White arrived in Louisiana from New York in May, 2011 to become head of the Recovery School District. He was immediately touted by Jindal shortly after his arrival as a person the governor would like to see named superintendent of Education for the entire state, not just the RSD. In the 2011 BESE election, millions of dollars in out-of-state money poured in to the coffers of some candidates and White was hired by BESE to be the state's new Superintendent of Education in January 2012. That was the last time BESE voted on a contract for White. Arsement has filed suit to force BESE to vote on whether to renew White's contract or not. White has served as a month-to-month employee since January 2016 when the current BESE members took office following the 2015 state elections. Even though pro-charter, pro-White candidates were elected in seven of the eight seats filled by election. But, each governor gets to appoint three members to the 11-member board and Governor John Bel Edwards appointed three people to the slots who back his position that the state needs a new superintendent. The result is something of a stalemate. State law says that it takes a tw0-third vote of BESE members to hire or fire a superintendent. That's eight votes. White can only muster seven. Or, so it seems since a vote has not been taken since the new board took office. So, White has served as a month-to-month employee of BESE — although there's never been a vote taken on that either. So, Arsement and others have filed suit in the 19th Judicial District Court in Baton Rouge (the place where all suits against the state and its departments and agencies must be filed). They are seeking to force BESE to vote on White's contract. If a new contract for White cannot muster the required two-thirds vote need, Arsement wants to see the seat declared vacant (as the law provides) and a national search for a new superintendent launched. Arsement discusses the lawsuit and the practices that he and other public education advocates say White has used to spin what they claim is a false narrative about the success of charter schools in Louisiana. The suit has been assigned to Judge William Morvant, but it looks like it will be a while before the wheels of justice start rolling. The initial hearing has been set for August. I met Ganey Arsement in 2015 while working on a min-documentary about the 2011 BESE elections. He's included in the program. Here's the link. ••• Thanks to Matt Roberts, AOC's Community Production Manager for help locating the music used in this segment. A Foolish Game by Hans Atom (c) copyright 2017 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial (3.0) license. http://dig.ccmixter.org/files/hansatom/55394 Ft: Snowflake "