Understanding the Law

Explaining court cases, statutes, and executive actions across the country, providing valuable analysis of the facts and legal impact on the public.

Can States Legalize the Use of Marijuana?

November 8, 2012

The November 2012 Election will be remembered for many reasons.  One of the most memorable and toughly fought presidential campaigns ended in a decisive win for President Barack Obama.  The balance of power in the United States Congress remained unchanged, but this 113th Congress will begin its ...[Continue Reading]

Unconstitutional Dog-Sniffs – Man’s Best Frenemy

October 16, 2012

“Working like a dog.”  This is a phrase I have never quite understood.  My dog has never worked a day in his life, and until there is a high demand for butt-sniffing, then I doubt he ever will.  However, not all dogs are lazy bums.  Indeed, canine units have been integrated into nearly ...[Continue Reading]

You Are Entering the Exception Zone

June 18, 2012

Meet Emily Herx – an English teacher at a parochial school.   Emily is a happily married, ambitious young woman who wants nothing more than to start a family.  Emily suffers from a diagnosed medical condition that causes infertility.  Last June she began in vitro fertilization (IVF) ...[Continue Reading]

The Pros and Cons of a “Do it Yourself” Divorce

June 12, 2012

“Do it yourself” became a common phrase in the English language around the 1950’s, and originally referred to home improvement projects individuals could complete without hiring a professional.  Today, a multitude of magazines, websites and even television networks are devoted to “DIY” ...[Continue Reading]

Objection, Hearsay :(

April 17, 2012

As lawyers (or aspiring lawyers) we pride ourselves on our ability to interpret language or the intended meaning behind various assertions.  Let’s put this skill to a little test. Consider the following two text messages from John: 1) “I don’t know if Bubba will be able to make it to the a ...[Continue Reading]

Is a Man’s Home Really His Castle?

April 17, 2012

The nationwide outcry over the recent shooting of seventeen-year-old Trayvon Martin by a neighborhood watch coordinator in Florida has renewed the public debate about self defense laws.  Collectively referred to as the “castle doctrine,” states have enacted various forms of statutes that ...[Continue Reading]
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