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In light of the recent legal ruling out regarding the California ban on gay marriage, I've put up a poll to see what the reader sentiment was on the issue.

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Support to end citizenship for children of illegal immigrants grows

Here's an interesting story.  It's traditionally been the right for anyone born in the United States to get citizenship automatically.  However, a number of lawmakers are suggesting a constitutional amendment to change this right:

Frustrated by Congress' failure to do anything to curb illegal immigration, a number of prominent lawmakers are suggesting the time has come to consider repealing or rewriting the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which guarantees citizenship to anyone born in the United States.

Read more…

Do you need a lawyer?

When do you need a lawyer?

Sometimes, it's obvious when you need the professional advice of a lawyer such as when you are being sued or charged with a crime.  But even in the most common situations a lawyer's advice, the advice of a professional can be an asset.

One of the first questions you need to ask yourself is "What is at risk?"  When you are faced with going to jail or losing a sum of money, you should always consult with a professional, no matter how straightforward the case.  The law and the courtroom is filled with pitfalls where the inexperienced could stumble, even in a simple case.  Remember the saying, "One who represents himself has a fool for a client."

With the complexities in the government and the law, the advice of an expert is important in a number of areas:  business, estate planning, drafting wills and trusts, family matter, adopting children, real estate and rent issues.  Good preparation is necessary when taking on these tough legal challenges.

Things to consider before you hire a lawyer?

If you have a legal matter where you believe you may need the advice of a lawyer, you can often arrange a consultation with a few phone calls.  Most lawyers can arrange a free consultation, they know that if they give good preliminary advice about a case, you are more likely to consider hiring them for your cause.  Remember, it never hurts to talk to a lawyer.

If you are concerned about the cost of consulting an attorney, often times, you can turn to local community or civil rights groups that offer free legal help and information.

Alternatively, some disputes may be settled by mediation or arbitration, rather than taking court action.  Nonetheless, a lawyer may be able to give you advice in how to negotiate a favorable outcome even in those settings.

How soon should you consult a lawyer?

The sooner the better.  In some cases, it's obvious that you need to act fast.  However, many times, it may appear that you have time to weigh your options, but preparation is always the key in any complex situation.  And the sooner you begin to prepare, the better your outcome.

A couple of things to keep in mind:  In many legal situations, there is a statute of limitations, meaning a deadline for you to take action before you loose the right forever.  These deadlines can be as short as weeks or months.  If you miss the deadline, you will forever lose your right to bring a claim.

What is your goal?

While this questions may seem simple, sometimes your objectives may not be clear. If you are in a situation where you area unlawfully charged with a crime, or someone is suing you for a large sum of money, your goal is clear. 

However, what if the situation is that you feel you were unlawfully let go from your job?  Do you want to sue for your job back, or try for some punitive damages without going back to a potentially hostile work environment.

Also, your lawyer can also tell you whether you have a viable claim, and how realistic your chances are of winning your case.  If you are unsure about your rights, a lawyer is a good investment which may ultimately save you time and money.

Questions for Your Attorney

• How much experience do you have?
• How much will a lawsuit cost me?
• How long will the entire legal process take? Do I have a good chance of winning?

Judge Strikes Down Gay Marriage Ban

The Federal Judge in San Francisco strikes down the ban on gay marriage today, ruling that the law violates the US Constitution.

California: Ruling On Gay Marriage Expected Today

Demonstrators on both sides of the issue are preparing for a ruling that is anticipated to come out this afternoon on the legality of gay marriage.

US District Chief Judge Walker presided over the trial about the constitutionality of the gay marriage ban in California. This afternoon, Judge Walker will issue a ruling on whether the law violates equal protection and due process under the US Constitution.

Arizona Sheriff given deadline to comply in Civil Rights Investigation

This is an interesting story. Since March, 2009, the sheriff of Maricopa County, Joe Arpaio, has been under investigation for civil rights violations. The primary focus of those investigations have been for alleged discrimination and unconstitutional searches and seizures.

You may recall Joe Arpaio in recent news. He has virtually served as a spokesperson for local law enforcement in support of the Immigration Law. Of course, he was also the sheriff who urged demonstrators to follow the law during the protests, and then promptly began leading immigration sweeps in Immigrant neighborhoods immediately after a Judge banned key provisions of the Immigration Law. One of the main provisions dealt with the controversial portion requiring law enforcement to check immigrants for their papers. How does one sweep immigrant neighborhoods, while following the Judge's ruling?

Apaio states that the current investigation is primarily focused on alleged wrongdoings in his immigration efforts. Arpaio, along with his attorneys, have already indicated that they have no intention of cooperating with the inquiry. The Justice Department has now given a deadline of August 17, 2010 to turn over documents that were first requested last year.