JAN. 31-FEB. 13, 2024
We're seeing a couple different trends with one month of 2024 behind us. First, requests for competency exams are up in criminal cases; reporter Alexa Shrake has more on the data, and how the exam actually works. Second, eviction filings show no signs of slowing down — and some data suggest they're approaching pre-pandemic levels. Managing editor Daniel Carson has that story. And coming in 2025: the end of the federal estate tax exemption — maybe. Daniel has more on what the future holds for the legislation in the Banking & Finance Focus. Read those stories and more in the Jan. 31-Feb. 13, 2024, issue of Indiana Lawyer.
Top StoriesBack to Top
Competent to stand trial? Competency evaluations under spotlight in Indiana courts, Legislature
Attorneys and judicial officers in Indiana are seeing a rise in competency evaluation requests, along with an increase in mental health needs throughout the criminal justice system.
Read MoreFirst Step Act anniversary shows progress made in sentencing reforms: Advocates look to continue building on sentencing, release changes
It’s now been five years since the Formerly Incarcerated Reenter Society Transformed Safely Transitioning Every Person — or FIRST STEP — Act was signed into law.
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‘Greatly underestimated’: In 2024, agencies continue looking for data, solutions for eviction issues
With eviction filings showing no signs of slowing down with the start of a new year, Indiana Legal Services has continued to help Hoosier tenants with their efforts to seal prior evictions that could prevent them from finding new housing.
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Kid-focused legislation: Proposed bills aim to improve Indiana child welfare laws
Despite 2024 being a short legislative session, Indiana lawmakers are considering dozens of bills specifically related to child welfare.
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Web Exclusive: Meet the Judges: Jennings Circuit Judge Murielle Bright
Growing up in a house with an attorney for a dad, Jennings Circuit Judge Murielle Bright knew she wanted to study law.
Read MoreIndiana Court Decisions: Jan. 11-24, 2024
Read Indiana appellate court decisions from the most recent reporting period.
Read MoreFocusBack to Top
Sunsetting soon: Attorneys seeing high interest in estate tax provision as December 2025 end date nears
For some estate law attorneys who handle planning for wealthier clients, Dec. 31, 2025, is circled on their calendars.
Read MoreMizzell: Economic legacy of the pandemic: Challenges, opportunities
It’s no secret that the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic fallout have posed serious challenges to Indiana businesses, lenders and consumers.
Read MoreOpinionBack to Top
Maley: Discoverability and inadequate objections
Federal courts frequently address discovery disputes, with many addressing discoverability and inadequate objections.
Read MoreSvoboda: ‘Why did you want to go to law school?’
The most common question that I have been asked over the last three years is, “Why did you want to go to law school?”
Read MoreHollis, Nickels and Roth: New DOL rule for determining independent contractors
On Jan. 9, the U.S. Department of Labor released its highly anticipated Final Rule, which revises the criteria for determining whether a worker is an employee or independent contractor under the Fair Labor Standards Act.
Read MoreHammerle on… “Maestro” and “Poor Things”
Indianapolis criminal defense attorney Robert Hammerle gives us his take on “Maestro” and “Poor Things.”
Read MoreBar AssociationsBack to Top
IndyBar: Duncan Installed as 2024 President
On Jan. 25, the Indianapolis Bar Association celebrated the installation of its 145th president, David J. Duncan. The following is the address he gave to the nearly 200 members, family and friends in attendance.
Read MoreIndyBar: The Masters Division, the Hub of Experienced Members of the Indianapolis Bar Association
Are you a member of the Indianapolis Bar Association and have been practicing for 25 years or more? If so, you are also a member of the prestigious Masters Division — at no cost to you!
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