Seattle, WA Attorneys, Lawyers and Law Firms

A new nonprofit organization has been established in New Haven, Connecticut, to convert blighted properties into affordable housing units. The New Haven Land Bank will be led by Serena Neal-Sanjurjo, former director of the city's anti-blight Livable City Initiative, and will work with local officials including Mayor Justin Elicker to address the city's shortage of affordable housing. With an initial $5 million in funding from the state's Urban Act Grant, the Land Bank aims to purchase dilapidated buildings, fund their redevelopment into housing, and transfer the properties to local housing nonprofits. The move is a step towards addressing New Haven's civil litigation surrounding affordable housing issues.

In a pivotal ruling, U.S. District Judge Marco A. Hernandez has ordered the University of Oregon to refrain from deleting or censoring controversial social media posts by Professor Bruce Gilley. Gilley, who has publicly criticized the university's diversity initiatives, filed a civil suit against the institution after being blocked from the @UOEquity Twitter account. The judge stated that blocking posts deemed offensive could violate constitutional rights. Legal experts, including Gilley's attorneys, are exploring potential settlement options as this case unfolds in Portland. The pending injunction highlights ongoing discussions about free speech and civil litigation in academia.

Senators Elizabeth Warren, Bernie Sanders, and Cory Booker have collectively introduced the Stop Corporate Capture Act (SCCA), countering the Supreme Court's recent ruling that dismantled the Chevron doctrine. The existing legal framework allowed federal agencies in Oregon and beyond to interpret ambiguous laws, impacting the enforcement of regulations on worker safety, environmental standards, and consumer protections. Advocates like Rep. Pramila Jayapal urge for enhanced public engagement and accountability in civil litigation related to corporate influence on policy. The SCCA aims to restore regulatory authority to agencies and curb the overreach of corporate interests in legal matters. With support from organizations like Earthjustice, the act seeks to ensure that rules reflect public interests rather than special interests.

In a remarkable week for the Gladstone/Oak Grove area of Oregon, a Portland home sold for an impressive $1.9 million, marking it as the most expensive residential transaction recorded from July 15-21. Over the week, 11 properties changed hands, with the average sale price reaching $686,826 or $315 per square foot. Local real estate experts highlight the surge in luxury housing demand, reflecting broader trends in Oregon's business and corporate sector. This uptick signals a thriving market, buoyed by affluent buyers and strategic investments.

In a recent report on residential transactions in Willoughby, between July 15 and July 21, five properties were sold, highlighting a robust housing market. The prime deal was a 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home on Cheltenham Drive that fetched $306,000. Other notable sales included a cozy 2-bedroom residence on Windermere Drive for $92,000 and a spacious 4-bedroom property on Polo Park Drive for $379,000. Local real estate experts emphasize this activity reflects the growing demand in the Cleveland area. As business thrives, the community witnesses exciting opportunities in real estate.

A week-long crackdown by the Hartford Police Department has led to the arrest of 32 individuals and the seizure of multiple caches of illicit drugs, including fentanyl, cocaine, and MDMA, as well as 24 guns, including "ghost" rifles. The operation, which involved over 10 search warrants, also yielded $23,240 in cash. Hartford police said the effort is part of a broader push to combat crime in the city. Local lawyer Mark Sherman and State Senator Matthew Lesser were not directly involved in the operation but have called for increased funding for law enforcement. The arrests bring attention to the ongoing struggle with substance abuse and traffic-related offenses in the region surrounding Hartford, CT.

Connecticut's Clean Slate Promise: 10% of Eligible Records Erased Amidst Technical Issues and Frustration"

**Summary:**

In Connecticut, only 13,000 of the 130,000 eligible records have been erased under the "Clean Slate" law, which was passed to automatically erase misdemeanors after seven years. Technical issues with computer infrastructure have resulted in a temporary freeze on erasures, leaving advocates frustrated and concerned about the impact on residents waiting for their records to be cleared. Despite Governor Ned Lamont's commitment to getting the program done right, many are still waiting, including Adam Osmond who was convicted of a misdemeanor 16 years ago and is one of those affected.

The nearly $3 billion Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion project in New Orleans has ignited debates over its economic implications, as stakeholders weigh the benefits against community concerns. Proponents like Simone Maloz emphasize the expected job creation and tax revenue, while critics, including oysterman Mitch Jurisich, raise alarms about potential long-term damage to local industries. As legal challenges threaten the project's progress, local officials seek resolutions that balance restoration needs with environmental safety. The outcome may significantly impact real estate values and civil litigation in the region.

The Oregon State Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking public input on a proposed ban of motor vehicle access to two beach areas near Pacific City, Oregon, specifically Tierra Del Mar and Cape Kiwanda, citing safety and preservation concerns. OPRD is promoting this initiative to improve beach quality and reduce risks associated with vehicle traffic, particularly during shorebird nesting seasons. Public comments can be submitted until 5 p.m., February 12, 2021. This move may resonate with residents and legal professionals involved in civil litigation and real estate law, as it impacts coastal access rights. Comments can be made online or at an upcoming virtual hearing on January 28, 2021.

Recent tragedies along the Oregon coast highlight critical safety issues for residents and visitors. Two traffic-related deaths occurred on Highway 6 and Highway 18, as Gene Carlson, 66, and a 21-year-old Dayton man lost their lives in separate accidents, raising concerns over driving risks. Additionally, a California man, Steve Allen, was presumed dead after a surfing mishap at the Devil's Churn near Yachats, Oregon, emphasizing the dangers of recreational activities. Oregon State Police urge heightened awareness in both personal injury law and traffic regulations, particularly as summer crowds decrease. Community members are encouraged to prioritize safety while navigating the beautiful but perilous Oregon coastline.