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Appeal of a State Court Judgment

The losing party in a civil lawsuit can file an appeal after the state trial court enters a final judgment in the case. Generally, a notice of appeal has to be filed within 30 days after a judgment. The person who files the appeal is called the...

Opening Statements and Closing Arguments at Trial

Trial Begins with Opening Statements

A trial begins with opening statements by the attorneys for the litigants (the parties in the lawsuit). The plaintiff (the party suing) has the burden of proof in the case. This...

Diversity in the Courts

It is essential to public confidence in the courts to assure a racially and ethnically neutral court system. Starting in 1988, task forces were implemented in many states to address racial and ethnic discrimination issues in the courts. This...

Discretionary Review of a State Court Decision

State Courts of Appeals

Generally, a litigant can file an appeal of a state trial court's final decision as a matter of right. The party filing the appeal usually is called the appellant; the other party is called the...

Traffic Law Enforcement with Electronics

Electronic traffic law enforcement involves the use of technology to enforce traffic laws. Police officers have been using conventional radar guns for years to detect speeding drivers. More recently, laser speed guns have been developed that more...