Articles

Justice Department supports archdiocese’s right to fire teacher in same-sex marriage

The U.S. Justice Department filed a statement in court Friday saying the Archdiocese of Indianapolis was within its rights when it fired a Cathedral High School teacher in a same-sex marriage. The Justice Department’s so-called “statement of interest” said the First Amendment prevents courts from impairing the constitutional rights of religious institutions.

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State health commissioner, Barnes partner honored as trailblazing women

Barnes & Thornburg LLP hosted its fifth Shirley’s Legacy ceremony Thursday, surrounded by those celebrating the pioneer spirit of former Barnes partner Shirley Shideler. The 2019 Shirley’s Legacy awards were presented to honorees Kristina Box, Indiana state health commissioner, and Connie Lahn, Barnes’ Minneapolis office managing partner, for their contributions to bolstering the success of women.

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Admission of parents’ drug tests upheld in TPR case

Parents who objected to the admission of drug tests in their termination of parental rights hearing were unable to convince the Indiana Court of Appeals that their children would not be affected by their drug use. The panel affirmed removal would be in the children’s best interests.

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Indiana bus driver sues school district in free speech suit

A central Indiana school bus driver is suing the district that employs him, alleging his First Amendment rights were violated when he was suspended after speaking out against proposed changes that would have forced some children to travel further to attend school. The American Civil Liberties Union of Indiana filed the federal lawsuit last month on behalf of Madison-Grant United School Corp. bus driver James “Randy” Sizelove.

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