Litigation Newsletters

DNA Testing

DNA is genetic material that controls inherited traits such as eye color, hair color, and bone density. DNA testing is used to match a sample of evidence (sperm, blood, saliva, skin, or hair) from the crime scene to a suspect. Current DNA techniques are so sophisticated that one person can be differentiated from all other living persons by analyzing DNA from a single strand of hair. DNA testing is especially helpful in solving rape and murder crimes and in exonerating wrongly convicted prisoners.

Appeal of a State Court Judgment

The losing party in a civil lawsuit can file an appeal after the state trial court enters a final judgment in the case. Generally, a notice of appeal has to be filed within 30 days after a judgment. The person who files the appeal is called the appellant, and the other party is called the appellee.

The Supreme Court of the United States

The United States Constitution provides that the judicial power of the United States is vested in one Supreme Court and any lower courts established by the United States Congress. The Supreme Court was organized on February 2, 1790.

Federal Rules of Civil Procedure

The U.S. Congress passed a law authorizing the federal judiciary to adopt rules of practice and procedure for federal court proceedings. Congress also created a body called the Judicial Conference of the United States to administer the federal courts. The Supreme Court of the United States can prescribe federal procedural rules, and the Judicial Conference has authority to recommend changes to the rules. Any rules adopted by the Supreme Court are subject to congressional review.

Wrongful Death Claims

A wrongful death is a death caused by the negligence or misconduct of a person or company. All states have wrongful death laws that provide compensation to the surviving spouse, minor children, and parents of a deceased adult. Some states permit other relatives to recover compensation if they depended upon the deceased for support or services. In some states, grandparents or members of the extended family can also recover damages for their loss.