Monday status conference: Like a heat wave
As thermometers here in Washington are set to soar well above the 90 degree mark over the next few days, today the U.S. Supreme Court kicks off its final week of oral arguments this term. This week the justices are set to hear cases involving issues such as immigration, Double Jeopardy, special education reimbursement and the Voting Rights Act. Stay tuned for updates on any cert grants, opinions or other newsworthy developments.
White House officials are focusing on the swine flu after 20 cases were confirmed in the country and a public health emergency was declared. And members of Congress continue to squabble over the release of terror memos.
Meanwhile,
Do not pass Go, do not collect $200: While the percentage of federal criminal offenders who are sentenced to prison time has increased, the percentage receiving alternative sentences – such as probation or house arrest – has decreased, according to a new study released by the U.S. Sentencing Commission. (Lawyers USA)
Proceed with care(givers): The economic downturn has prompted the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission to give special guidance to employers to help them avoid being sued for bias against workers with care-giving responsibilities. (Lawyers USA)
A taxing proposition? President Obama’s tax plan could mean small businesses face bigger tax burdens. (WaPo)
Lawyering up: The “Stevens six” – the six prosecutors under investigation for their roles in the reversed conviction of former Alaska Sen. Ted Stevens – have tapped heavy-hitting BigLaw attorneys to represent them. The Department of Justice will pick up part of the tab. (ABA Journal, BLT, WSJ Law Blog)
