Judges' Membership in Discriminatory Organizations

Every state has a code of judicial conduct that sets ethical guidelines for judges. All states have judicial conduct commissions with the power to investigate, prosecute, and decide cases of judicial misconduct. There is also a code of conduct for federal judges. The code of judicial conduct requires a judge to avoid not only impropriety but also the appearance of impropriety. The code of judicial conduct also covers judicial integrity, independence, diligence and impartiality. Membership in discriminatory organizations is currently a controversial topic.

Judgments by Confession and Judgments by Warrant of Attorney

A confession of judgment means the entry of a judgment on the confession (admission) of the defendant, usually a debtor. The defendant admits his or her liability for the debt. Judgments by confession are void as against public policy in some states, while other states permit judgments by confession. A warrant of attorney is a written document that gives an attorney the power to confess judgment against the defendant on a debt.

Servicemembers Civil Relief Act

In December 2003, President Bush signed the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (Act), a law to reduce the economic and legal burdens of military personnel. The Act updates prior laws and gives servicemembers on active duty added protections. The Act also applies to reservists who have been called up for active duty. This article covers some of the most important provisions in the Act.

The Jury in a Civil Lawsuit

There is a constitutional right to a jury trial in certain types of civil cases. The jury in a civil lawsuit usually contains 6 to 12 people.

Service of Process -- Notice of a Lawsuit

A lawsuit begins when a plaintiff (the party suing) files a complaint with the clerk of courts. The defendant (the person or company being sued) is given notice that a lawsuit has been filed and is "summoned" to appear before the court. Service of process means that the defendant is given notice of the lawsuit and a copy of the complaint that was filed.