Defense of indigents: crisis spurs lawsuits; public defenders say a funding squeeze has all but nullified the right of the poor to counsel

Article Abstract:

Public defenders say the system that funds the defense of indigent clients is in crisis thanks to a spiralling caseload and perennial budget cuts. Their opponents say the situation is not that bad. From 1982 to 1986 state court cases nationwide rose from 3.2 million to 4.5 million, while spending rose from $624 million to $991 million. One estimate places the 1994 figure at 8 million cases and $2 billion. Public defenders have challenged the cuts in many states, with some success in court but less in actually getting funds.

Economic aspects, Finance, Legal assistance to the poor, Right to counsel, states

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Libya 'agent' is charged: prosecutors say consultants illegally urged executive branch to end sanctions

Article Abstract:

A federal investigation of Libyan influence-peddling resulted on May 18 in the arrest of Libyan consultant William Bodine in Washington DC for violating regulations applying sanctions to Libya. Elements of the investigation have been in the news for a year, and several prominent businessmen and former Bush administration officials may still be under suspicion. Libya has sought repeatedly to have lifted the sanctions imposed by the US in 1986 and strengthened after the 1988 bombing of a Pan Am plane.

Investigations, United States foreign relations, Economic sanctions, Sanctions (International law), Libya, Libyan foreign relations, Influence buying

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Sanctions, secrecy are supported

Article Abstract:

A survey on state court civil litigation by the Defense Research Institute (DRI) finds widespread support among lawyers and judges for greater application of protective orders and sanctions for frivolous motions. However, support varied from group to group on each issue, with plaintiffs' attorneys being less supportive of protective orders and sanctions than defense lawyers.

Laws, regulations and rules, Surveys, Public opinion, Sanctions (Law), Secrecy, Defense Research Institute

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