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Friday, January 30, 2015

New Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals Filing Date

A date has now been released for filings based upon the new Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) requirements.  The date for those filings to be effective will be February 18, 2015.

What does this mean from a practical standpoint?  If you think you may be eligible under the new guidelines, now is the time to contact an attorney to evaluate your case and assist you in preparing your application.

Here are the guidelines for the expanded DACA from the USCIS website:

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program
Who
  • Individuals with no lawful immigration status who are seeking initial or renewal DACA.
What
  • Extends the deferred action period and employment authorization to three years from two years, and allows you to be considered for DACA if you:
    • Entered the United States before the age of 16;
    • Have lived in the United States continuously since at least January 1, 2010, rather than the prior requirement of June 15, 2007;
    • Are of any age (removes the requirement to have been born prior to June 15, 1981); and
    • Meet all the other DACA guidelines.
When
  • February 18, 2015 (USCIS will not accept requests for expanded DACA before that date.)

Monday, January 26, 2015

OJ Simpson Trial - 20 Years Later - Impact On Criminal Law Practices

Perhaps one of the most widely publicized trials in recent history and certainly one which has shaped criminal justice practices and teachings.  I still remember my law professors covering this case and the discussion of trial practice and how it made such an impact on this case.

Perhaps the most defining item to note from this case is that the outcome of the case ultimately comes down to which side presents the most compelling story.  It is the government's burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.  Here, there was enough reasonable doubt created for an acquittal.  This case also highlights that cases don't necessarily move quickly.  The trial itself in this case took over 9 months.  Sometimes the best strategy for a case is to be patient and let things unfold.

http://www.cnn.com/2015/01/13/us/oj-simpson-trial/index.html