According to a report issued by the National Commission on COVID-19 and Criminal Justice in February 2021, incidents of domestic violence in the United States increased by approximately 8.1% during the lockdown periods imposed by state and local governments. The rise was attributed to various factors, such as unemployment, increased alcohol use, stress relating to childcare and homeschooling, and the separation of victims from possible means of support. Although the lockdowns and restrictions implemented during the early days of the pandemic may have been lifted and eliminated, the threat of domestic violence still looms, and victims and survivors still need assistance. Fortunately, some of that assistance by way of a local donation and some help from the federal government.
Read moreLatest & Greatest – A Legal Guide for Lesbian & Gay Couples
Authors Frederick Hertz and Lina Guillen begin the introduction to their book, A Legal Guide for Lesbian & Gay Couples, with “[t]his is a book about family values, and about the value of family.” It is designed to help couples navigate relationships and the issues that these partnerships or unions may produce or trigger. Because this is a book about family values, it is only fitting that the authors begin with the definition of family and how that definition has evolved into a more inclusive and neutral definition. This is followed by a discussion of practical matters that families may face, including financial issues, renting or buying a home together, healthcare decisions, and estate planning, plus issues dealing with separations and dissolutions.
Read more2021 Cybersecurity Legislation Compiled by the National Conference of State Legislatures
According to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), so far in 2021, “At least 44 states and Puerto Rico introduced or considered more than 250 bills or resolutions that deal significantly with cybersecurity.” In Texas, there have been 27 bills related to cybersecurity this legislative session, three of which have been signed by the governor to date.
Read moreWe Are Reopening June 14: Make an Appointment Now to Visit Harris County Robert W. Hainsworth Law Library
We are excited to announce that the Harris County Robert W. Hainsworth Law Library will be ready for a limited reopening on Monday, June 14! Appointments will be required to visit the Law Library and enhanced safety procedures will be in place to help limit COVID-19 transmission at the Law Library. This blog post summarizes new procedures and provides a link for patrons to make appointments.
Read moreFree (or Very Low-Cost) Productivity Hacks
Get more done, and do it on the cheap with four recommended productivity hacks: Microsoft Lens, Otter Dictation, PowerNotes, and Fax.Plus.
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