Courts

The spirit of the law
The long-time head of the American Bar Association talks about the obligations lawyers have to the rule of law around the world.
Duluth looks for an investigator
Officials in Duluth are trying to find someone to investigate Mayor Herb Bergson. Last year, the mayor gave a classified report to the publisher of the Duluth News-Tribune. The report's author, Legislative Auditor Jim Nobles, says that was illegal. But so far he hasn't been able to find anyone to investigate he matter. Now, the Duluth city council has instructed the city's purchasing agent to hire someone to conduct an investigation.
The disputed 75-cent-per-pack charge on cigarettes won the backing Tuesday of the Minnesota Supreme Court, which overturned a judge's decision that struck down the "health impact fee."
Hennepin County Attorney candidates square off
The two candidates for the DFL nomination for Hennepin County attorney make their cases for why they want to be the top prosecutor. The current holder of that office, Amy Klobuchar, is running for U.S. Senate.
Sex offender  ordinances considered across the state
Some Minnesota cities are regulating where sex offenders can live. But law enforcement officials say the ordinances may make communities more dangerous.
Minnesota Lawyers Professional Responsibility Board reports a record-setting pace this year for actions against attorneys.
Distractions take their toll on Minnesota drivers
Every year as many as 100 people in Minnesota die in vehicle crashes because they were distracted while driving.
House passes restrictions on eminent domain
The Minnesota House has overwhelmingly approved a sweeping revision of the state's eminent domain law. The measure would tightly control when local government officials could seize private property.
Edina Realty sues for top spot on Google
Two Twin Cities real estate companies are in a legal fight with implications for the future of advertising on the Internet. Edina Realty is suing relative newcomer TheMLSOnline.com for trademark infringement and unfair competition. The dispute is over how the newer company uses an increasingly important advertising medium: Internet search engines.
Has gay marriage changed Massachusetts?
Gay couples in Massachusetts say allowing gay marriage in that state has strengthened their relationships. They say gay marriage has done little to change the lives of others. But opposition to the issue remains.