On the importance of being heard
August 11, 2021
The Zulu greeting “Sawubona” translated literally means “I see you.” Because it is important to be seen.
Is it a ledger? Or is it an address book?
July 23, 2021
One man’s address book is another person’s ledger.
Reaching out to clients during the pandemic
July 11, 2021
Reaching out to clients during the pandemic: Sometimes what I need to do is just listen.
Civil asset forfeiture in D.C.
June 4, 2021
Property seized by police during an arrest is often subject to civil forfeiture proceedings whether or not the person is ever convicted of a crime.
Anti-Stalking Orders in D.C.
May 31, 2021
The Intrafamily Offenses and Anti-Stalking Orders Amendment Act of 2020 created a new process — an Anti-Stalking Order (ASO) — to deal with allegations of stalking in Washington, D.C. in which the parties are not related or in a domestic relationship. Violation of an ASO is punishable as criminal contempt.
No room for the boy
May 28, 2021
Representing the bad guys: Criminal defense lawyers sometimes make tradeoffs when we take on domestic violence cases
Cross-examining a pro se petitioner in a CPO case
May 20, 2021
Trying a case — in this case, a CPO hearing — against an unrepresented party is always an experience.
Overwhelming clients with communication
May 18, 2021
Although we may take the most pride in our skills in the courtroom, clients tend to care far more about how well we communicate with them over the life of the case.
Criminal threat requires ability to follow through
May 17, 2021
Telling someone that you will “slap” his/her “bitch ass” is threatening on its face. But criminal threats require the ability to follow through.
New CPO law takes effect in D.C.
May 4, 2021
D.C.’s new law on civil protection orders (CPOs) redefines the category of people eligible for protection. It also extends coverage to animals, minors and victims of sex trafficking.
