Celebrate April being Alcohol Awareness Month! This article describes ways to eliminate underage drinking, eliminate impaired driving, and empower adults who drink to do so responsibly. Don’t forget to check out the Social Media Toolkit to take action yourself!
You should have received an email earlier today about registration for legislative updates. If you missed it, you can view it online.
This is a short update with reminders for upcoming online programs. Don’t forget to scroll to the bottom to hear about the updated SRL Page.
The link for the chart of Moving Violations has been updated. This is the list courts use to determine Driving Safety Course eligible offenses for defendants under the age of 25.
The new link is Figure: 37 TAC §15.89(b).
TJCTC materials will be updated later this year to include this new link and other legislative changes.
Question: Under Texas law, can a claimant recover damages for negligence if they are more than 50% at fault, and how is their recovery affected if they are partially at fault?
Answer: No, under Section 33.001 of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code, a claimant may not recover damages if their percentage of responsibility is greater than 50%. If the claimant is 50% or less at fault, they may recover damages, but under Section 33.012(a), the amount is reduced by their percentage of responsibility. The process of assigning percentage of liability is called Modified Comparative Negligence or Proportionate Responsibility.
This is a question for the jury to answer in a jury trial and TJCTC has a special verdict form that can be used if it is a questions. The jury cannot be advised about any consequences of their answers related to proportionate responsibility.
Do you want to learn more?
You can watch the recording for credit: How Much Should the Judgement Be? Calculating Damages in Civil Cases for more information.
Friday, April 25, 2025, Noon – 1 pm
This session will offer 1 hour MCLE credit. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with a link to join the webinar.
Course Description: This presentation will provide a statutory and procedural overview of Repair and Remedy and Repair and Deduct claims, both governed by Chapter 92, Subchapter B of the Texas Property Code, in Justice Courts. Additionally, this presentation will review relevant caselaw related to Repair and Remedy and Repair and Deduct claims and further provide practical considerations and best practices.
We hope to see you in attendance!
Instructors: Marisela Gonzales and Stuart Campbell
Note: This is not a TJCTC sponsored webinar, but from a section of the Texas State Bar Association.
Register for the webinar: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/9tGEclvBQ7-SRjE9A6MuvA#/registration
Law & Literature Webinar **THIS WEEK**
April 10th from 2:00 – 3:00 pm
Do you want to get paid to be part of a book club? Join TJCTC’s webinar to discuss the book “Maid” that intersects the art of storytelling and the legal field.
Judge Brad Cummings from Hopkins County and TJCTC Attorney John Lackey will lead the discussion regarding the book. Also, feel free to watch the Netflix series based on the book and be ready share your thoughts!
Register for the webinar: https://txstate.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Er9LPQhaTl2jltrLKgyicQ#/registration
Clearing Your Docket While Helping Your Community: An Update
June 5th from 2:00 – 4:00 pm
This webinar will be an overview of strategies to clear criminal case dockets while ensuring that indigent defendants’ rights are protected.
It will include information about Omnibase holds, waiver of fines and fees, community service plans, other indigent assistance strategies, and include relevant legislative updates.
Register for the webinar: https://txstate.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_spcexLIFROSVykhcZrpsZg#/registration
We made some updates and added a few more resources. Make sure you take a look and feel free to share with people who come to your court looking for assistance.
Note: There are several great videos about court procedures from the National Center for State Courts and the Austin Young Lawyers Association available there now as well.
Check out the SRL Page: https://www.tjctc.org/srl.html
This update is full of legal information and updates. Make sure to scroll all the way to the bottom for a new resource you can share with your communities as well.
There are also several great webinars and trainings coming up, both from TJCTC and other outside groups.
CDL Issued by Mexico
The Legislature changed how the law operates for people who aren’t authorized under federal law to work in the United States but are operating a CMV using a CDL issued by Mexico. HB 4337 modified Transportation Code Sec. 522.015 to state that people who meet that description are only allowed to operate the vehicle in counties which border Mexico.
“Over Group of Axles”
Courts have begun seeing citations for “over group of axles” in some areas. Transportation Code Sec. 621.101 provides three different weight restrictions related to axles. (a)(1) limits a single axle weight to 20,000 pounds, (a)(2) limits a tandem axle weight (two axles directly adjacent to one another) to 34,000 pounds, and subsection (a)(3) limits the overall gross weight on a “group of two or more consecutive axles.” The limit for the “group of axles” is determined by the formula listed in Sec. 621.101(a)(3), which is based on the number of axles and the distance between them.
Question: We have several juveniles that had 2 charges filed on them in a single incident. How do we handle this with Juvenile Diversion?
Answer: This situation is not expressly dealt with in the juvenile criminal diversion statutes.
Therefore, it is ultimately up to the court how they want to handle the citation/charges.
TJCTC’s position is that the court should handle the charges together and divert both if the standard eligibility elements are met, the charges are not traffic offenses, and both charges are in one citation.
In support of our position, CCP Art 45.310, in part, says, “If a charge involving a child who is eligible for diversion is filed,” and CCP Art. 45.301 defines “charge” as “a formal or informal allegation of an offense, including a citation, written promise to appear, complaint, or pending complaint.”
Thus, if two alleged offenses are contained in one citation, that meets the definition of “charge” in CCP 45.310, and the court may divert both charges in one agreement.
We also recommend speaking to the other JPs in your county to see if you can all come to an agreement on how this situation will be handled in your county. This would help ensure fairness and predictability for juveniles in your area.
No. 02-23-00053-CR, Issued 3/6/25 from the Second Court of Appeals in Fort Worth
Question: Is a search warrant affidavit that only relies on the officer’s “training and experience” and no other specific facts in support enough to search electronic devices found in a home where the search warrant is executed.
Holding: No. There was no connection established between the crime being investigated and the defendant’s electronic devices.
What does this mean for justices of the peace who sign search warrants? This case is a good reminder that the affidavit must go beyond just boilerplate language and include articulable facts connecting the items being searched for with evidence of the crime being investigated. This case is in line with the Baldwin case from the Court of Criminal appeals
There are still spots open for justices of the peace at the annual Impaired Driving Symposium held July 30-31 in Denton.
Visit the TAC website for more information and to register: https://www.county.org/education-and-events/calendar-of-events/2025/impaired-driving-symposium/overview
Law & Literature Webinar
April 10th from 2:00 – 3:00 pm
Do you want to get paid to be part of a book club? Join TJCTC’s webinar to discuss the book “Maid” that intersects the art of storytelling and the legal field.
Judge Brad Cummings from Hopkins County and TJCTC Attorney John Lackey will lead the discussion regarding the book. Also, feel free to watch the Netflix series based on the book and be ready share your thoughts!
Register for the webinar: https://txstate.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Er9LPQhaTl2jltrLKgyicQ#/registration
Clearing Your Docket While Helping Your Community: An Update
June 5th from 2:00 – 4:00 pm
This webinar will be an overview of strategies to clear criminal case dockets while ensuring that indigent defendants’ rights are protected.
It will include information about Omnibase holds, waiver of fines and fees, community service plans, other indigent assistance strategies, and include relevant legislative updates
Register for the webinar: https://txstate.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_spcexLIFROSVykhcZrpsZg#/registration
Judicial Forum on Mental Health (Judges Only)
The Judicial Forum on Mental Health will give county judges and justices of the peace information about the nature of mental illness in the courts, crucial legislative updates and how to create important partnerships.
August 14, 2025 – August 15, 2025
08:00 AM – 05:00 PM
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Austin 6505 N. Interstate 35
Austin, TX 78752
Register for the Judicial Forum: https://www.county.org/education-and-events/calendar-of-events/2025/judicial-forum-on-mental-health/overview
Texas Law Help has partnered with the various legal aid organizations around Texas to create one form for Texans to use to request legal help and resources when it relates to a legal issue that involves a child’s health, stability, safety, or security.
This is a great resource to have handy to share with your local constituents and anyone who comes into your court seeking help with these issues.
Check out the Family Help Link: https://texaslawhelp.org/family-help-link
Here is an article that provides recent drunk driving statistics, a reminder of the consequences, and prevention strategies to reduce drunk driving.
It has been a busy March so far, with a JP Conference and a Civil Process Conference back-to-back with JPCA Day right in the middle! We had such a great time welcoming so many of you to Austin!
There are several great webinars and trainings coming up, both from TJCTC and other outside groups. Make sure to scroll down all the way to register for the webinars this week. **There is one this week!**
The Justices of the Peace and Constables Association had a great showing at the Capitol for your annual legislative day. While members of the TJCTC staff didn’t attend, we sure enjoyed seeing you all before and after at our conferences.
As this legislative session is underway, we wanted to remind you all that TJCTC will provide legislative updates late this summer (registration coming soon), but if you are interested on what is going on at the legislature now, contact your JPCA legislative teams – https://jpca.com/legislative/.
There are still spots open for justices of the peace at the annual Impaired Driving Symposium held July 30-31 in Denton.
Visit the TAC website for more information and to register: https://www.county.org/education-and-events/calendar-of-events/2025/impaired-driving-symposium/overview
First Responder Wellness Week
This week is Wellness Week, and Lexipol has compiled a week’s worth of trainings, resources, and reminders for you to be the best you can be mentally and physically! Check them out at the Lexipol website by clicking the button below
Note: This is not a TJCTC sponsored training, but from a reputable criminal justice training agency.
Webinar from State Bar Justice Court Section: From Court Receivership Application & Hearing to What the Receiver Does After Issuance in Justice Court
Friday, March 21, 2025, Noon – 1 pm
Judge Ralph D. Swearingin, Jr. and Craig Noack will present From Court Receivership Application & Hearing to What the Receiver Does After Issuance in Justice Court. This session will offer 1 hour MCLE credit. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with a link to join the webinar.
Course Description: This presentation will provide some insights from the bench on post-judgment collections and the appointment of receiverships. Additionally, the presentation will provide an in-depth look at the role of a receiver once appointed, including the behind-the-scenes work involved in collaborating with the judgment debtor
Note: This is not a TJCTC sponsored webinar, but from a section of the Texas State Bar Association.
https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/1LlWU5qsRx6H8Dv_ZcWpPA#/registration
Restorative Justice Pathways for Juvenile Offenses
THIS WEEK!!! March 14th from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Explore the critical intersection of emotional hygiene, shame, and juvenile behavior in our powerful session. Discover effective restorative justice strategies designed to promote healing, accountability, and meaningful community involvement within the juvenile justice system. Join us to unlock the power of restorative justice!
https://txstate.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_3YYucvTYS_C3ZTEKKMh_bQ#/registration
Law & Literature Webinar
April 10th from 2:00 – 3:00 pm
Do you want to get paid to be part of a book club? Join TJCTC’s webinar to discuss the book “Maid” that intersects the art of storytelling and the legal field.
Judge Brad Cummings from Hopkins County and TJCTC Attorney John Lackey will lead the discussion regarding the book. Also, feel free to watch the Netflix series based on the book and be ready share your thoughts!
Visit an earlier blog post for more information & to register: https://docket.wp.txstate.edu/2025/01/22/law-literature/
Clearing Your Docket While Helping Your Community: An Update
June 5th from 2:00 – 4:00 pm
This webinar will be an overview of strategies to clear criminal case dockets while ensuring that indigent defendants’ rights are protected.
It will include information about Omnibase holds, waiver of fines and fees, community service plans, other indigent assistance strategies, and include relevant legislative updates
https://txstate.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_spcexLIFROSVykhcZrpsZg#/registration
Judicial Forum on Mental Health (Judges Only)
The Judicial Forum on Mental Health will give county judges and justices of the peace information about the nature of mental illness in the courts, crucial legislative updates and how to create important partnerships.
August 14, 2025 – August 15, 2025
08:00 AM – 05:00 PM
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Austin 6505 N. Interstate 35
Austin, TX 78752
This month is Disability Awareness Month. Are you doing everything possible to make your court accessible for all court users?
Do you know that 1 in 4 adults in the United States experience some type of disability at some point in their life?
A disability is a visible or invisible condition that substantially limits one or more major life activities such as eating, sleeping, speaking, hearing, walking, seeing, breathing, caring for one’s self, or working.
We discuss the Americans with Disabilities Act and what court compliance looks like in the recently updated Interpreters Self-Paced Module.
Check out all of the Self-Paced Modules on TJCTC’s Website:
https://www.tjctc.org/onlinelearning/selfpacedmodules.html
As we finish out these last few days of February, we have several resources to share related to inquests, and some reminders about upcoming webinars and other programs.
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) reports the first measles-related death in the ongoing outbreak affecting the South Plains and Panhandle regions. As of February 25, 2025, 124 confirmed cases have been reported since late January, with most occurring in children. Eighteen people have been hospitalized due to complications from the virus. For a detailed breakdown of cases by county, please refer to the DSHS update: Texas Health Services
Under Texas law, a “communicable disease” is defined as an illness transmitted from an infected person, animal, or environmental source. Health & Safety Code § 81.003. If an inquest suggests that a death may be related to a communicable disease, judges are required to report it immediately to the local health authority or the Texas Department of Health. Health & Safety Code § 81.045(c).
Key Indicators of Measles in Cause of Death Investigations
Measles is highly contagious and spreads through direct contact with infectious droplets or airborne transmission when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. Symptoms typically appear 7-14 days after exposure, beginning with high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. A few days later, a red rash develops, starting on the face and spreading to the rest of the body. Infected individuals are contagious from about four days before the rash appears to four days after. If signs of measles are suspected in an inquest, immediate reporting and further investigation are necessary.
TJCTC is closely monitoring updates from DSHS and will keep you informed as they are provided.
Webinar from Police One: Unlocking grant opportunities: Funding the future of public safety technology
Tuesday, March 11, at 1 p.m.
Learn how to maximize resources and address critical challenges, including crime scene documentation, crash reconstruction and pre-incident planning.
Note: This is not a TJCTC sponsored webinar, but from a reputable criminal justice training agency.
Friday, March 21, 2025, Noon – 1 pm
Judge Ralph D. Swearingin, Jr. and Craig Noack will present From Court Receivership Application & Hearing to What the Receiver Does After Issuance in Justice Court. This session will offer 1 hour MCLE credit. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with a link to join the webinar.
Course Description: This presentation will provide some insights from the bench on post-judgment collections and the appointment of receiverships. Additionally, the presentation will provide an in-depth look at the role of a receiver once appointed, including the behind-the-scenes work involved in collaborating with the judgment debtor
Note: This is not a TJCTC sponsored webinar, but from a section of the Texas State Bar Association.
Link to register: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/1LlWU5qsRx6H8Dv_ZcWpPA#/registration
Restorative Justice Pathways for Juvenile Offenses
March 14th from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Explore the critical intersection of emotional hygiene, shame, and juvenile behavior in our powerful session. Discover effective restorative justice strategies designed to promote healing, accountability, and meaningful community involvement within the juvenile justice system. Join us to unlock the power of restorative justice!
Link to register: https://txstate.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_3YYucvTYS_C3ZTEKKMh_bQ#/registration
Law & Literature Webinar
April 10th from 2:00 – 3:00 pm
Do you want to get paid to be part of a book club? Join TJCTC’s webinar to discuss the book “Maid” that intersects the art of storytelling and the legal field.
Judge Brad Cummings from Hopkins County and TJCTC Attorney John Lackey will lead the discussion regarding the book. Also, feel free to watch the Netflix series based on the book and be ready share your thoughts!
Learn more here: https://docket.wp.txstate.edu/2025/01/22/law-literature/
Link to register: https://txstate.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Er9LPQhaTl2jltrLKgyicQ#/registration
Clearing Your Docket While Helping Your Community: An Update
June 5th from 2:00 – 4:00 pm
This webinar will be an overview of strategies to clear criminal case dockets while ensuring that indigent defendants’ rights are protected.
It will include information about Omnibase holds, waiver of fines and fees, community service plans, other indigent assistance strategies, and include relevant legislative updates
Link to register: https://txstate.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_spcexLIFROSVykhcZrpsZg#/registration
This month is Heart Health Awareness Month. From learning and teaching about inquests, we know that poor heart health often contributes to cause of death. Here are a few facts about heart health to think about for yourself and share with families when a person passes away as a result of heart disease.
Heart disease is very common. In the United States, heart disease is the leading cause of death for men, women, and people of most racial and ethnic groups. In 2022, 1 in every 5 deaths in the United States was caused by heart disease.
High blood pressure is a leading cause of heart disease. Nearly half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure, which puts them at risk for heart disease and stroke. And just 1 in 4 people with high blood pressure has it under control.
Heart disease is costly. The cost of health care services, medications, and lost productivity from heart disease amounted to $252.2 billion between 2019 and 2020.
More information and resources can be found on the CDC website: https://www.cdc.gov/heart-disease/php/heart-month/index.html#cdc_generic_section_2-shareable-and-printable-tools-in-english-and-spanish
We are excited to be back in the swing of things at conferences around the state! Don’t forget, this might slow down the legal board or legal call response time if staff is traveling to or teaching at a program.
This round of Updates includes some important legal announcements and links to sign up for several training opportunities, so make sure to scroll all the way to the bottom.
Don’t forget! Every court should have (as of January 1, 2025) a Juvenile/Youth Diversion Plan available for public inspection. For more resources, information, and help with this topic, please see a special post on this blog, The Docket.
Question: I sent a request to a Health Care Provider for records of a deceased using the form provided on your website. The provider uses an outside company to manage their records. I received a reply that I had to provide an attestation form under the Reproductive Health Care Privacy Final Rule before I can receive the records. Is this proper and, if so, what do I need to attest. Thanks,
Answer: Information on this Rule is found here: https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa/for-professionals/special-topics/reproductive-health/final-rule-fact-sheet/index.html It seems like an attestation is not necessary, since the records aren’t being sought to investigate lawfulness of reproductive health care. However, you certainly can sign an attestation that you are not seeking the information for any prohibited purposes, since you are not, and that may be easier than arguing about the need. A model form may be found here: https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/model-attestation.pdf
February 27th from 2:00 – 3:00 pm
This webinar will feature a justice of the peace and constable discussing issues around short-term vacation rentals, tenants vs. lodgers, property owners’ rights, and more.
Registration Link: https://txstate.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_JjFkV1wLSqKA4bMj32fjsA#/registration
March 14th from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Explore the critical intersection of emotional hygiene, shame, and juvenile behavior in our powerful session. Discover effective restorative justice strategies designed to promote healing, accountability, and meaningful community involvement within the juvenile justice system. Join us to unlock the power of restorative justice!
Registration Link: https://txstate.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_3YYucvTYS_C3ZTEKKMh_bQ#/registration
April 10th from 2:00 – 3:00 pm
Do you want to get paid to be part of a book club? Join TJCTC’s webinar to discuss the book “Maid” that intersects the art of storytelling and the legal field.
Judge Brad Cummings from Hopkins County and TJCTC Attorney John Lackey will lead the discussion regarding the book. Also, feel free to watch the Netflix series based on the book and be ready share your thoughts!
Learn more on an earlier post from The Docket: https://docket.wp.txstate.edu/2025/01/22/law-literature/
Registration Link: https://txstate.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Er9LPQhaTl2jltrLKgyicQ#/registration
June 5th from 2:00 – 4:00 pm
This webinar will be an overview of strategies to clear criminal case dockets while ensuring that indigent defendants’ rights are protected.
It will include information about Omnibase holds, waiver of fines and fees, community service plans, other indigent assistance strategies, and include relevant legislative updates.
Registration Link: https://txstate.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_spcexLIFROSVykhcZrpsZg#/registration
February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM), and there is a grant-funded website with resources that anyone can use to share information with the public.
Why??
Dating violence is more common than you may think, especially among teens and young adults: 1 in 3 U.S. teens will experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse from someone they’re in a relationship with before becoming adults. And nearly half (43%) of U.S. college women report experiencing violent or abusive dating behaviors.
Often, these teens end up in your court or the public might come in and ask for help with these types of issues. Access the TDVAM website here: https://www.loveisrespect.org/get-involved/tdvam/
Impaired driving increases during Super Bowl Weekend. This article gives you more information about the dangers of impaired driving and ways to fight it.
We have finally made it to the end of January. Between the winter storms and getting back to a normal schedule, it has been a long month!
Hopefully you get some much-needed rest and relaxation this weekend, to get ready for all of the training we have in store for February! Make sure to read all the way to the end – we have some fun and informative online training coming your way soon.
Don’t forget! Every court should have (as of January 1, 2025) a Juvenile/Youth Diversion Plan available for public inspection. For more resources, information, and help with this topic, please see a previous post on The Docket.
5 New Skills Every Public Safety Leader Needs to Succeed Today
Thursday, February 6 | 1 pm Eastern
Presented by: Battalion Chief Bruce Bjorge and Chief (Ret.) Dave Funkhouser
As a public safety leader, you likely completed coursework in leadership, possibly on your way to earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree. You may have even been fortunate enough to receive training as you promoted into new roles. But for most leaders, these educational resources fail to address many of the challenges facing today’s agencies. Being a public safety leader today is different than it was 10 to 15 years ago. Leaders must be dynamic, flexible, and innovative with the ability to navigate complex environments and a variety of challenges, from changes in technology to community expectations and increased accountability.
Join Lexipol for a webinar with Battalion Chief (Ret.) Bruce Bjorge and Chief (Ret.) Dave Funkhouser as they share five essential skills every public safety leader needs today to excel and effectively support their teams and communities.
You’ll learn:
Key skills that modern public safety leaders need to navigate today’s challenges.
Strategies to foster innovation, adaptability, and resilience within public safety teams.
How to utilize leadership principles that align with community expectations and organizational accountability.
Register Today!
Registration is free. Can’t make it? Register anyway and they will send you a link to the recording after the event.
Justice Court Staff Psychology: Understanding Ethical Group DynamicsThursday, February 13, 2025 at noon CT
Join the Texas State Bar Justice Court Section for a webinar next month as Dr. Malinda Fasol and Daisy Espinoza present Justice Court Staff Psychology: Understanding Ethical Group Dynamics. This session will offer 1 hour ethics credit
Thursday, February 13, 2025, from noon – 1 pm
Course Description: Justice Court Staff are essential for efficient operation of Texas Justice Courts. Just like other office settings, conflicts or personalities will sometimes present challenges. The goal is harmony. Understanding group dynamics will help to prevent or resolve any such conflicts which might interfere with smooth efficient operation of a Justice Court. This course will provide useful insights for Justice Court judges as well as their staff.
About the Presenters:
Dr. Malinda Fasol is licensed by the State of Texas as a Licensed Professional Counselor. Dr. Fasol holds a Master of Arts in Marriage & Family Counseling from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology & Counseling from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Learn more about Dr. Fasol’s background HERE.
Daisy Espinoza has been the Justice Court Manager for Tarrant County Precinct 1 for more than five years and manages all of the daily operations of the Justice Court. Learn about more Daisy’s background HERE.
Use this link to register via Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/4Kl7jVotQXaZLYLcahVkdg#/registration
February 27th from 2:00 – 3:00 pm
This webinar will feature a justice of the peace and constable discussing issues around short-term vacation rentals, tenants vs. lodgers, property owners’ rights, and more.
Use this link to register via Zoom: https://txstate.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_JjFkV1wLSqKA4bMj32fjsA#/registration
April 10th from 2:00 – 3:00 pm
Do you want to get paid to be part of a book club? Join TJCTC’s webinar to discuss the book “Maid” that intersects the art of storytelling and the legal field.
Judge Brad Cummings from Hopkins County and TJCTC Attorney John Lackey will lead the discussion regarding the book. Also, feel free to watch the Netflix series based on the book and be ready share your thoughts!
Learn more here: https://docket.wp.txstate.edu/2025/01/22/law-literature/
Use this link to register via Zoom: https://txstate.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Er9LPQhaTl2jltrLKgyicQ#/registration
June 5th from 2:00 – 4:00 pm
This webinar will be an overview of strategies to clear criminal case dockets while ensuring that indigent defendants’ rights are protected.
It will include information about Omnibase holds, waiver of fines and fees, community service plans, other indigent assistance strategies, and include relevant legislative updates.
Use this link to register via Zoom: https://txstate.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_spcexLIFROSVykhcZrpsZg#/registration
Austin Young Lawyers Association has launched “How to Pick Jurors for Your Trial in Justice Courts and Municipal Courts” video series. AYLA received a Texas Bar Foundation grant to produce these educational series for pro se litigants. The video project made possible with the support and efforts of the Travis County District Clerk.
This is a great resource to share with self-represented litigants who have questions about the trial process, especially jury selection.
You may also notice a special appearance by your colleague, Judge Sylvia Holmes.
Here is the link to the series: https://lnkd.in/eEpgdFdu
If this sounds like fun to you, join our new book club!
This spring, we will host the first Law & Literature Webinar to discuss the book Maid that intersects the art of storytelling and the legal field.
Judge Brad Cummings from Hopkins County and TJCTC Attorney John Lackey will lead the discussion regarding the book.
We didn’t forget the TV and movie lovers out there, there is also Netflix series based on the book.
Read, watch, and come for a lively discussion about Maid.
Webinar Details:
Thursday, April 10, 2025 at 2:00 pm
Register for the webinar: https://txstate.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Er9LPQhaTl2jltrLKgyicQ#/registration
from Goodreads:
At 28, Stephanie Land’s plans of breaking free from the roots of her hometown in the Pacific Northwest to chase her dreams of attending a university and becoming a writer, were cut short when a summer fling turned into an unexpected pregnancy. She turned to housekeeping to make ends meet, and with a tenacious grip on her dream to provide her daughter the very best life possible, Stephanie worked days and took classes online to earn a college degree, and began to write relentlessly.
Maid explores the underbelly of upper-middle class America and the reality of what it’s like to be in service to them. “I’d become a nameless ghost,” Stephanie writes about her relationship with her clients, many of whom do not know her from any other cleaner, but who she learns plenty about. As she begins to discover more about her clients’ lives-their sadness and love, too-she begins to find hope in her own path.
Her writing as a journalist gives voice to the “servant” worker, and those pursuing the American Dream from below the poverty line. Maid is Stephanie’s story, but it’s not her alone.
This is a New York Times bestselling book available in most public libraries as well as most online book retailers. We have provided a few links to purchase the book below, but don’t want to discourage you from finding it at your local libraries or bookstores!
Link to the book on Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/maid-stephanie-land/1128617437
Link to the book on Half Price Books: https://www.hpb.com/maid-hard-work-low-pay-and-a-mothers-will-to-survive/P-15470508-USED.html?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=HPB_PMAX_ECOM&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAnKi8BhB0EiwA58DA4QR2ID7B9zpBolJmrQs2XiycyzQZpoDq3mw4r0-CSwUVJ0ZE7y7XTBoCRXsQAvD_BwE
Link to the TV series on Netflix: https://www.netflix.com/title/81166770
