Axios: Massachusetts Approves Raise for Court-Appointed Defense Lawyers
Massachusetts lawmakers agreed to increase pay for court-appointed defense attorneys by $20/hour—part of a $40 million two-year plan. The move aims to resolve a work stoppage where hundreds of cases had stalled due to insufficient compensation. Still, many advocates remain skeptical about whether this raise is enough to restore full representation for indigent defendants.
Economic Times: SC Orders BCI Probe into “Ghost Litigant” Case
In a case involving a fake compromise petition without any litigant’s signature, the Supreme Court of India has directed the Bar Council of India (BCI) to investigate. The court hinted that the police may be involved depending on the findings, citing threats to the judicial process’s integrity due to possible misconduct or manipulation.
Reuters: ABA Weighs Removing DEI Quotas
The American Bar Association (ABA) is considering changing its diversity requirements for its Board of Governors. Previously, five seats were reserved for women, minorities, LGBTQ+, or disabled individuals. Under the new proposal, only three seats would be filled based on demonstrated commitment to diversity, regardless of demographic identity. This reform is part of a broader […]