Litigation Newsletters

Domestic Violence Courts

Domestic violence has been a growing problem in the United States. In the 1990's, specialized courts were set up in some states to deal exclusively with domestic violence matters. Domestic violence courts are problem-solving courts, which seek to not only punish criminal behavior but also to resolve the underlying issues that brought the parties into the criminal justice system.

Injunctions

An injunction is a court order directing a person or company to do a certain act or prohibiting the person or company from doing a certain act. An injunction is considered an extraordinary remedy, and the court has discretion in deciding whether to issue an injunction.

Mental Health Courts

Specialized courts, called mental health courts, have been set up to deal with individuals entering the criminal justice system who have mental illness or a mental disability. Currently, about 30 states have mental health courts in selected jurisdictions. Juvenile mental health courts, handling delinquency cases involving mentally ill juveniles, are planned in some states.

The Effect of a Judgment in a Civil Lawsuit

When a court of competent jurisdiction renders a final judgment on the merits of a case, the judgment is conclusive between the parties as to the claims, facts, and issues litigated in the case.

Freedom of Information Act

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) is a federal law that was passed in 1966. It ensures government openness and accountability. The FOIA gives a person access to federal agency records. However, agencies are allowed (but not required) to withhold records that fall within nine categories.