States want share of punitives; three more join trend

Article Abstract:

Approximately nine state laws have gone into effect since 1986 allowing states to keep a percentage of punitive damages awarded in their jurisdictions. This money is usually designated by law to fund a specific need such as services to crime victims. According to a survey by the American Tort Reform Assn, however, lax enforcement has led to scant money collections. The Assn of Trial Lawyers of America feels that these laws may be a better option than placing caps on damages. Similar measures have been introduced in Texas, Indiana and New Jersey.

Laws, regulations and rules, Exemplary damages, Punitive damages

---

Impact of crimes shakes sentencing: statements by victims or their loved ones inform judges but risk mayhem

Article Abstract:

Victim impact statements remain controversial but state and some federal courts widely accept them as a way of balancing the picture and giving victims a voice. Some also result in near-riots, degrading or indecorous performances, or changed sentences. Proponents include judges, victims, and the National District Attorneys Assn, while the National Assn of Criminal Defense Lawyers opposes them. The 1994 federal crime bill added federal courts to the 41 state courts that allow victim allocution under some circumstances.

Social aspects, United States, Management, Sentences (Criminal procedure), Testimony, Victims of crimes, Crime victims, Courthouse violence

---

Is Vice President's council subject to FOIA?

Article Abstract:

Meyer v Bush was brought by the Public Citizen Litigation Group and concerns an attempt by one of their attorneys to secure Presidential Task Force on Regulatory Relief documents. Katherine A. Meyer wanted to get a better idea of Bush's role from these documents and use the information to help the Dukakis campaign. Judge Green rejected the government's claim that the task force was not an administrative agency under the Freedom of Information Act.

Cases, Freedom of information, Government information

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: Unravel the tax treatment of financial instruments. Make an offer the IRS is now less likely to refuse. The year 2000: a tax preparation software development odyssey
• Abstracts: New rules on auditor-client relationships; the SEC has released new independence requirements for auditing firms that perform myriad services for clients
• Abstracts: Harbor maintenance fee sets off a dispute; more than 400 companies object, calling the levy an illegal tax on exports
• Abstracts: Case holds key to U.S. competitiveness; NLRB to rule on legality of labor-management committees. NLRB asks public for input on rules
• Abstracts: Don't leave home without it ... your office, that is. What is your computer hiding? For those who know where to look, the information is still there

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.