Legal career

  • Senate Confirms Biden-Picked Judges in DC, Pennsylvania

    President Joe Biden on Tuesday achieved the confirmation of three additional nominees for trial court judgeships as Senate Democrats continued their efforts to fill judicial vacancies before Republican President-elect Donald Trump assumes office. The Democratic-led Senate approved Sparkle Sooknanan, an official in the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, as a life-tenured federal district court judge…

  • Massachusetts Judge Accused of Misconduct by Impeding Immigrant’s Arrest

    A Massachusetts judge, Shelley Joseph, who faced criminal charges during Donald Trump’s first presidency for allegedly impeding a federal immigration arrest in her courtroom, now faces new allegations of willful misconduct from state judicial disciplinary authorities. On Monday, the Massachusetts Judicial Conduct Commission filed formal charges against Judge Joseph, focusing on the same conduct at…

  • Law Student Satisfaction Rates High for Last 20 Years

    Aspiring lawyers have consistently rated their law school experiences highly over the past two decades, with approximately 80% describing their experience as “good” or “excellent” in the annual Law School Survey of Student Engagement. However, satisfaction rates among students of color have lagged behind those of white students throughout this period. The survey, conducted by…

  • Manhattan’s Top Federal Prosecutor to Resign Ahead of Trump Comeback

    Damian Williams, the federal prosecutor for Manhattan who gained national attention for securing convictions against high-profile figures like U.S. Senator Bob Menendez and crypto tycoon Sam Bankman-Fried, announced on Monday that he will resign ahead of Donald Trump’s return to the presidency. Williams, appointed by President Joe Biden in 2021, will step down on December…

  • Paying for Law School: Scholarships to Apply for in November 2024

    If you’re concerned about financing law school, don’t fret! Numerous scholarships can help cover the costs. Applying to as many as possible will boost your chances of receiving aid. At Barrier Breakers, we’ve put together a list of scholarships available this November to assist law school students in finding financial support. We hope this list…

  • Crafting a Compelling Personal Statement for T14 Law Schools

    As we dive into personal statement season, I’m excited to share some insights on what makes a compelling narrative for those aiming to attend the top 14 law schools (T14). At Barrier Breakers, we’ve witnessed firsthand the power of a well-crafted personal statement, contributing to a 54% acceptance rate for our students at T14 schools.…

  • Trump’s Chance to Fill 2 Appeals Court Seats Hinges on Judges’ Retirement Plans

    President-elect Donald Trump’s ability to fill all four appellate court vacancies tied to this week’s bipartisan Senate deal hinges on whether two Democratic-appointed judges follow through on their planned retirements. Both judges announced their intent to take senior status earlier this year but linked their decisions to the confirmation of their successors. Senate Democrats and…

  • Trump Picks Pam Bondi for Top Law Job After Gaetz Withdraws

    President-elect Donald Trump announced on Thursday his decision to nominate Pam Bondi, former Florida Attorney General and a loyal supporter, as U.S. Attorney General. This move swiftly replaces his previous nominee, Matt Gaetz, who withdrew from consideration following allegations of sexual misconduct and illicit drug use. Gaetz has denied any wrongdoing. Bondi, 59, brings extensive…

  • Trump Gains Ability to Fill 4 Appellate Judge Seats Under Senate Deal

    Senate Democrats and Republicans struck a late-night agreement on Wednesday, enabling votes on a group of President Joe Biden’s nominees for federal trial courts while halting efforts to confirm four appellate court nominees. This arrangement leaves those appellate court vacancies for Republican President-elect Donald Trump to fill. A spokesperson for Democratic Majority Leader Chuck Schumer…

  • Patent Office’s Vidal Returns to Law Firm Winston Ahead of Trump Term

    Outgoing U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) Director Kathi Vidal announced on Monday that she will rejoin her former law firm, Winston & Strawn, as a partner on December 16. Vidal, who previously led Winston’s Silicon Valley office, confirmed her departure from the USPTO last week. President Joe Biden had nominated her for the position…