Law360 (December 22, 2023, 12:31 PM EST) -- In their commentary on emerging access to justice issues this year, Law360 guest experts covered the importance of tiered legal assistance in eviction cases, the evolution of financial bail conditions, and the role of public defenders in addressing the root drivers of crime.
May 5
New Ideas For Using Litigation Finance To Close Justice Gap
Bob Koneck at Woodsford Group Ltd. outlines new ways in which the growing litigation finance industry could work with foundations, law firms and schools to address the urgent access to justice crisis.
Aug. 7
A Judge's Pitch To Revive The Jury Trial
Ohio state Judge Pierre Bergeron explains how the decline of the jury trial threatens public confidence in the judiciary and even democracy as a whole, and he offers ideas to restore this sacred right.
June 2
Well-Equipped Public Defenders Can Help Reduce Recidivism
Public defenders are uniquely positioned to connect clients with essential services that are proven to address the root drivers of crime, thus reducing recidivism and promoting public safety — but they need adequate resources to bring about this change, says Emily Galvin-Almanza at Partners for Justice.
March 24
Eviction Cases Need Tiered Legal Help, Not Unlimited Counsel
The concept of right to counsel in civil cases, particularly in the context of evictions, is hotly debated, but rather than giving every tenant full representation regardless of the merits of their case, we should be focused on ensuring that everyone has the right amount of legal help, says Bob Glaves at the Chicago Bar Foundation.
May 18
Why Trump Sexual Abuse Verdict May Be Hard To Replicate
Survivors of sexual assault may be emboldened to file suit after writer E. Jean Carroll's trial victory against former President Donald Trump, but before assigning too much significance to the verdict, it's worth noting that the case's unique constellation of factors may make it the exception rather than the rule, says Jessica Roth at Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law.
Nov. 17
The Meaning Of 'Bail' Has Strayed Far From Its Legal Roots
As the pretrial system faces increasing scrutiny nationwide, states must recognize that imposing financial bail conditions harms communities, and that pretrial release practices must be realigned with foundational American legal principles — including the idea that money-based detention violates due process, says Matt Alsdorf at the Center for Effective Public Policy.
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