Executive clemency is one of the most powerful tools available to a President. Many people only hear about pardons in high‑profile political cases, but there is more than one form of clemency. The recent decision involving George Santos shows how commutations can eliminate punishment while leaving a conviction in place. Understanding this distinction matters for…
Last year, the Republican Party of Texas voluntarily dismissed its lawsuit against Guest & Gray and two of its attorneys, Elizabeth Alvarez and Scott Gray. Guest & Gray had been sued as part of an dispute with the Republican Party. The dismissal ends the lawsuit against the largest law firm in Kaufman County and one…
Last year, the Republican Party of Texas voluntarily dismissed its lawsuit against Guest & Gray and two of its attorneys, Elizabeth Alvarez and Scott Gray. Guest & Gray had been sued as part of an dispute with the Republican Party. The dismissal ends the lawsuit against the largest law firm in Kaufman County and one…
Most couples who get married choose to have a civil or religious ceremony to solemnize their marriage. However, residents of Texas can also get married through the process of a common law marriage. Texas couples should understand how to enter a common law marriage in Texas, including the rights, benefits, and responsibilities that come with…
A criminal conviction and sentence can have numerous short- and long-term consequences for individuals, including incarceration and the loss of certain civil rights or professional opportunities. However, defendants convicted of crimes in Texas may pursue relief from their conviction or sentence through the clemency process. A defendant may ask the Texas Governor to grant clemency…
We previously reported that the United States Sentencing Commission voted to amend the guidelines. However, the guideline amendments will only affect those who have not been sentenced. In August, the Sentencing Commission voted not to retroactively apply the upcoming amendments. The Commission: What they are and what they do The United States Sentencing Commission is…
When fathers separate or divorce from their children’s mother, they may assume that the court will grant the mother primary custody of the children. However, fathers’ rights under Texas custody law reflect a gender-neutral approach to custody evaluations. As a father in a custody proceeding, understanding your rights can help you protect your relationship with…
Although citizens have a constitutional right to bear firearms, state law imposes various regulations on owning or possessing guns. As a result, Texas criminal law includes various offenses involving firearms. When you violate the rules and restrictions governing the ownership, possession, or use of firearms, what gun charges could you face in Texas? Understanding Texas’s…
Executive Summary The United States Sentencing Commission (USSC), an independent agency within the judicial branch, plays a pivotal role in shaping federal sentencing policy. As November 1, 2025, approaches, a new set of amendments to the federal sentencing guidelines is poised to take effect, representing significant shifts in how federal courts will determine sentences. These…
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