115 ABA Journal Report from Governmental Affairs articles.
Pursuing copyright claims through the U.S. federal court system is expensive and time-consuming—too burdensome for creators with claims of modest amounts. Without effective legal rights and remedies, the perpetual theft of these creatives’ copyrighted works can threaten the worth of their professional endeavors. However, in June, the ABA commemorated an important milestone that addresses the challenges faced by these creators.
Oct 1, 2023 12:30 AM CDT
The ABA supports reasonable efforts by the U.S. government to detect, deter and combat money laundering, including reasonable and appropriate beneficial ownership reporting measures that comply with certain fundamental principles. However, the ABA opposes legislative measures that would require lawyers to disclose information protected by the attorney-client privilege or to violate their ethical duty to preserve client confidentiality.
Aug 1, 2023 12:30 AM CDT
For those incarcerated, the ABA supports appropriate treatment consistent with the Eighth Amendment that offers resources and opportunities shown to reduce recidivism and increase public safety.
Jun 1, 2023 12:10 AM CDT
For more than a century, the ABA has advocated on issues related to indigent defense, primarily through its Standing Committee on Legal Aid and Indigent Defense. In fact, SCLAID (when it was operating as the Standing Committee on Legal Aid Work) stated in its 1937 annual report: “We believe that every man accused of serious crime is absolutely entitled to counsel and that, if too poor to employ one, society must furnish him that lawyer.”
Apr 1, 2023 12:20 AM CDT
The 118th Congress is scheduled to open Jan. 3. New and returning senators and representatives will likely confront significant challenges of interest to the legal profession, including some that could impact how attorneys serve their clients throughout the country.
Dec 1, 2022 12:30 AM CST
Oct 1, 2022 12:15 AM CDT
The pandemic forced organizations like the ABA to adopt new ways to connect with their elected officials and lobby for policy changes of interest to their professions. In-person lobbying was the meat and potatoes of ABA advocacy for decades, but closing the halls of Congress to the public for more than two years elevated digital communications to the forefront.
Aug 1, 2022 12:10 AM CDT
Death penalty cases are difficult. The crimes are often shocking, and justice for the victims and their families is always a concern. The ABA does not take a position on the morality or constitutionality of the death penalty. But it is committed to ensuring capital punishment is applied in a fair, unbiased and accurate manner, including engaging with governments to ensure due process.
Jun 1, 2022 12:20 AM CDT
This year, we will celebrate the 25th anniversary of this event during the week of April 4. The ongoing pandemic has restricted our ability to meet face-to-face in Washington, but we have adjusted our advocacy strategy and techniques. As in 2020 and 2021, ABA Day 2022 will be held virtually.
Apr 1, 2022 12:20 AM CDT
The ABA’s efforts to improve laws and regulations and defend the rule of law are not limited to the United States; the ABA’s voice is also heard around the world. Opening jurisdictions to U.S. law firms, strengthening the rule of law, and improving the quality of laws through education, law reform and advocacy are important components of the ABA’s global work.
Feb 1, 2022 12:30 AM CST
The ABA started advocating for the creation of PSLF in 2002, and our steadfast support continues today. The program provides a financial tool to support government and nonprofit service providers who help ensure the delivery of vital services to the public, regardless of how rural or underresourced a community is. It is also a recruitment and retention tool that helps reduce student loan debt obligations for eligible professions, including public service lawyers.
Dec 1, 2021 12:20 AM CST
Oct 1, 2021 12:20 AM CDT
One of the most valuable benefits enjoyed by every member of the American Bar Association—and indirectly, by every attorney in America—is the ABA’s advocacy on their behalf in Washington, D.C.
Aug 1, 2021 12:15 AM CDT
For parents and their children, the child welfare legal system can be confusing and intimidating. That’s where a good lawyer comes in.
Jun 1, 2021 12:20 AM CDT
Apr 1, 2021 12:20 AM CDT
The ABA Journal wants to host and facilitate conversations among lawyers about their profession. We are now accepting thoughtful, non-promotional articles and commentary by unpaid contributors.
