IndyBar: Students, Apply for Academic and Educational Scholarships by March 1
Applications are now being accepted from deserving law students for Indianapolis Bar Foundation 2021 scholarships.
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Betz: Lawmakers propose ‘radical’ bid to reshape judicial selection
By initiating a constitutional amendment based on misinformation, three Indiana Republican state senators, now joined by multiple others, have proposed a radical resolution to eliminate citizen involvement in the retention vote of appellate judges, changing the current selection process that has been in place for 50 years. This proposal also severely decreases judicial independence and increases the political pressure on our state’s appellate judiciary. Indeed, if successful, the proposal would give the legislative branch far greater control over the Indiana state appellate judges and justices. It would also further embed in Indiana’s Constitution more systemic racism.
Indiana Court Decisions – Jan. 28-Feb. 10, 2021
Read Indiana appellate court decisions from the most recent reporting period.
Plews and Gotwald: Contra proferentem — A bedrock of insurance coverage law
For more than 100 years, the principle that if a policy term is ambiguous it is construed against the insurer and in favor of the policyholder and coverage — known as “contra proferentem”—has been a foundation of Indiana’s insurance-coverage jurisprudence. The reasons supporting this rule are still as strong as ever.
Hammerle on… “One Night in Miami,” The Dig”
Movie reviewer Robert Hammerle says “One Night in Miami” is a towering achievement while “The Dig” is a charming gem.
3 things about responding to online criticism as a lawyer
We’ve all scoped a Yelp review, been turned off by a customer’s dismal review and chosen a new restaurant. While restaurant management has the ability to respond to unfavorable online reviews, for a lawyer, it’s not that simple. Here are three things to know about responding to online criticism as a lawyer.
Dreyer: On our oath: ‘Judge, will you swear me in, please?’
Despite serious travails during our history, presidential inaugurations seem to allow for a pause and some national confidence. Noting this recently, it is perhaps well that we set briefly aside our current concerns and allow some reflection to lighten us up and to observe the critical importance of the judicial branch.
IndyBar: Thank You for Your Donations to the Criminal Justice Section Clothing Drive!
Donations of coats and warm clothes were dropped off to the Marion County Jail on Tuesday, Feb. 9. Your donations came at a good time, as the jail was running low on these supplies. We appreciate the generosity of our members every day, but especially during these tough times!
IndyBar: The Courage to Send an Email
If you haven’t heard of Brene Brown, you should look up her documentary “Brene Brown: The Call to Courage” for some laughs and solid advice about how to grow into a better version of ourselves by embracing vulnerability.
Jones: The ‘torrent’ that wasn’t: COVID-19 coverage cases
It’s been a little over a year since I first heard the term “COVID-19.” Back then, like many others, I thought Indiana would see a large number of suits attempting to force insurers to cover the myriad losses that resulted from the pandemic and its associated shutdowns. While there were some significant matters filed last year, to date, no Indiana state or federal case regarding COVID-19 insurance coverage has reached a decision on the merits.
Wagner: Policy endorsements may unlock COVID-19 coverage
When restaurants forced to close due to COVID-19 turned to their insurers to offset their losses because they were unable to use their property as intended, many of us thought the prospects for coverage were good, especially under policies that did not have virus exclusions. But the insurance industry response was fierce.
IndyBar: Complimentary On-Demand Program Offered During February
The Indianapolis Bar Association is proud to make “Widening Your View: Understanding Implicit Bias, Microaggressions and Your Professional Responsibility” available at no charge for IndyBar members.
IndyBar: Contractions in Formal Legal Writing: Is it Casual Friday Yet?
Thee debate in legal writing circles rages: Are contractions acceptable?
Start Page: Reduce cost of smartphone ownership: Limit interruptions
Over the next few articles, I will share some thoughts on setting your devices up for a “palm practice” (practicing law from the palm of your hand). Most lawyers now have smartphones or devices with us every day. But, with great power comes great responsibility. While these tools are helpful, they can also increase the sense that we should always be working on something.
DTCI: For better or worse, Zoom has changed the practice of law
For lawyers, COVID has forced us out of courtrooms, mediations, conferences and client visits. Videoconferencing software, usually Zoom, has stepped in to fill the void. Zoom is an imperfect substitute with plenty of drawbacks. However, after nearly a year litigating cases via Zoom, it has become an ingrained part of the practice of law. Even after COVID, Zoom is likely here to stay.
IndyBar: The Indiana Legislature is Now in Session
I am extremely proud to inform you that your Indianapolis Bar Association leadership is diligently engaged in the task of carefully evaluating proposed bills and making the thoughtful determination regarding whether to take action to support, oppose or suggest amendments. It has been absolutely inspiring to watch our IndyBar section leadership wholeheartedly embrace this daunting task on behalf of our members and our clients.
IU McKinney professor part of docuseries on 14th Amendment
A new docuseries on the 14th Amendment to the Constitution that debuts Wednesday on Netflix features Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law Professor Gerard Magliocca, who has researched and written about the drafter of the amendment.
Indiana panels back tighter abortion law, ending gun permits
Indiana legislators advanced two measures Monday that join Republican-led drives across the country to tighten abortion laws and loosen gun restrictions.
Appellate court rules for insurer in coverage dispute
Summary judgment has been upheld for an insurer who denied coverage on the basis of an invalid lease, even though the insurer had partially granted coverage when the claim was originally filed.
Indianapolis man pleads guilty to hate crime at neighbor
An Indianapolis man has pleaded guilty to federal hate crime and weapons charges after threatening a Black neighbor.