While still a subject of some controversy, expungement, the process by which an Indiana citizen can seal past criminal records, has undergone significant revision since its inception. In 2012, Indiana lawmakers enacted legislation popularly known as the “Second Chance Law.” Under the 2012 procedure, only those convicted of misdemeanors and non-violent class D felonies were eligible, and the remedy resulted in an ord … [Read more...] about Second Chances: Indiana's Evolving Expungement Law
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2015 Legislative Review
Editor’s Note: This report is a condensed version of the legislation enacted in the 2015 session of the Indiana General Assembly and only contains highlights of selected bills. The entire text of any law, as well as any other legislative action, is available at: http://www.iga.in.gov. Constitutional Amendments SJR 2 Right to Hunt, Fish and Harvest Wildlife – Passed Twice and Goes to Voters Hunting and fishing are the … [Read more...] about 2015 Legislative Review
Electronic Communications and Search and Arrest Warrants
The Indiana General Assembly in 2014 recognized the expanding methods we are using to communicate by amending the statute dealing with search and arrest warrants. House Enrolled Act 1009 (Public Law 170-2014) defined electronic communication service as one that provides users with the ability to send or receive wire or electronic communications. Judges and law enforcement officers in several Indiana counties have … [Read more...] about Electronic Communications and Search and Arrest Warrants
When Classroom Meets Courtroom: Oral arguments on the road
Teachers commonly use field trips to foster learning outside of the classroom. It provides an engaging way for their students to learn. For a Government or American History class, students might take a trip to the local courthouse or city/county building to gain insight into Indiana government. Those trips, while valuable, can be costly for schools. The Supreme Court is committed to providing a unique and … [Read more...] about When Classroom Meets Courtroom: Oral arguments on the road
A Helping Hand: Volunteer Advocates for Seniors or Incapacitated Adults
When Alice Smith (not her real name, but this is a true story), age 80, first came to the attention of the Lawrence County Guardianship Services Program (LCGSP), she had no money and no place to live. Alice’s daughter and Power of Attorney had cleared out her bank account, sold her house, and moved to Las Vegas, Nevada—taking with her more than $200,000 of Alice’s money. Sadly, Alice had also been diagnosed with demen … [Read more...] about A Helping Hand: Volunteer Advocates for Seniors or Incapacitated Adults