Practice of Law

Incoming law school students are likely relieved to hear that after a record-breaking 2021, the number of law school applications has returned to the mean. Incoming 1Ls are less likely to face overenrolled classes, particularly considering that law schools were careful this cycle to delay acceptance letters in anticipation of another high-application year.

Members of the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee grilled President Joe Biden's latest nominee to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit this week, with some focusing on his age more than his experience. Bradley Garcia, 36, would be among the youngest federal judges and the first Latino judge to serve on the D.C. Circuit if he's confirmed. But unlike the requirements for Congressional positions and the president, the Constitution doesn't require anyone to reach a certain age before they join the bench. So if that's the case, what does it take to become a judge?

As lawyers, we encourage prospective and current clients to never speak to law enforcement without an attorney present. But we can't be everywhere at once. All too often, by the time a client comes to speak with us, the damage to their case has already been done. Whether it's speaking to police during a traffic stop or after an accident, many cases are won or lost in those first few minutes when there is no attorney present. Wouldn't it be nice if everyone could have an attorney present during traffic stops and after car accidents? Someone who can protect the rights of drivers and get everyone home safely?

We're lawyers who write for a living, so we're probably not the best people to figure out a definitive test for sentience. But just for fun, let's say an AI program really can be conscious. In that case, what happens if an AI commits a crime?

Juneteenth, the now-federal holiday that has risen to mainstream prominence in the wake of George Floyd's murder, gets a lot of press around this time of year. Companies large and small are happy to promote awareness of the holiday. Many now give employees the day off, and in recent years they've placed an increased focus on diversity and inclusion efforts. Events, celebrations, and social media messages abound on and around June 19th. For law firms looking to increase diversity and inclusion efforts, June 19th is a great opportunity to consider what efforts we will make not just toward celebrating the end of slavery, but actively promoting diversity and inclusion through concrete and helpful actions.

June is Pride Month, a perfect time to honor both the past and the future voices of the LGBTQ+ community. Legal and civil history has been forged — and continues to be forged by countless groundbreaking LGBTQ+ legal professionals. Their work not only impacts the LGBTQ+ community but the legal system as a whole. While there is no way to create an exhaustive list of every LGBTQ+ legal professional who has left a lasting impact, we will be highlighting some of the voices that have changed our world.