Foster Justice review
934272
Foster Justice is the first book in the Texas Rangers series written by author Colleen Shannon. Good characters and storyline.
557436
Dana Hargrove is a very capable Bureau Chief in the office of the Manhattan District attorney. Luckily, for her, usually she can focus on the law, and on the performance of the prosecutors she supervises, and leave the politics to those in the DA's executive office suite. The exception, of course, is whenever the DA feels heat from the "public" (i.e., the news media), and the need to manage the actions of people at her level. One such case is the murder of a high profile fashion designer, supposedly during a home invasion. Investigators on the scene are dubious of his wife's description of what happened, and soon charge her with murder.

In another story thread, a former prosecutor, now heading Justice Restored, works to free her brother and other so-called innocent victims of malicious prosecution. She blames Dana for her brother's wrongful incarceration, and is out to both free her brother, and expose Dana.

Dana and her husband, Evan, a private sector attorney, have two young children. Evan is in the middle of a class action lawsuit. Evan's mom, Brenda, watches the kids at the Hargrove's Manhattan apartment weekdays, returning to her Westchester County home on weekends. The parents are grateful, but worry a bit about Brenda's ability to manage her financial affairs.

Dana and Evan are planning a much needed vacation at the Jersey shore. That vacation is impacted when Justice Restored subpoenas Dana to testify about the conviction of one of their clients.

The author skillfully weaves all of these threads into a seamless, and very enjoyable tale of murder, the law, criminal justice, work, and family. Ms. Kemanis, a New York attorney with experience as a prosecutor, writes about what she knows best, and it shows.

Most highly recommended (5 stars).

Please note: I received a free copy of this eBook from the author, as part of the LibraryThing Member Givaways Program. In exchange, I promised to provide an honest review. I have no other connections with the author.
3788416
I just purchased and finished reading Professor Brenda Stevenson's book "The Contested Murder of Latasha Harlins: Justice, Gender, and the Origins of The LA Riots".  I had almost forgotten about the murder of Latasha Harlins until the murder of Trayvon Martin and the Trial of George Zimmerman.  I was glued to the television listening and saying to myself, "where have I heard a trial presented like this before"  "These words and Zimmerman's lawyer's approach to the case sounded so familiar", but at the moment I could not put my finger on where I had I had hear this type of trial before.  Several days after the verdict was announced I received an email alert about Professor Stevenson's book, as soon as I received it in the mail and started reading it, I almost fainted from the realization of how these two case where similar including the verdicts.  Professor Stevenson did an excellent job of giving details about what happened on March 16, 1991, Latasha family background, even her own mother had been killed and the individual was given a lessor sentence, but what I found most profound about her book was her ability to present all three women, the Judge who gave Soon Ja Du no jail time, Soon Ja Du family history and background, and Latasha Harlins who the Judge explained that if "Latasha had lived she would tried her for assault"!  This book dealt with how females operate in the Justice System, something we don't always get a view of, how privileges, power and "who you know" plays a big part in who get to decide who lives or dies, who stays or goes, or who goes to jail and who does not, and how from a gender perspective this has a impact on how justice is administered.  It also made me evaluate how the Zimmerman trial came about and the role women played in the verdict that was rendered.  I am sure that People of California vs. Du was the first case on point that Zimmerman's lawyers used and almost word for word!  Thank you Professor Stevenson for a well thought out and research book about an almost forgotten young Black female.  I recommend this book to anyone who do not know Latasha Harlins story because it is a mirror image of the Trayvon Martin/George Zimmerman murder and verdict.
3240504
Gives a great look into what it is like to Foster a child with behavioral issues. It also highlights the importance of having an advocate for the child. I am a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) volunteer and this book helped me to realize how important my job really is! Recommend this book for anyone involved in child abuse and neglect cases!
3717976
A 19 year old college student with raging hormones and a dark side trying to solve the murder of a friend forms the basis for this novel.  He is motivated by the monetary reward as much as he is by a desire for justice.  There is violence and a gruesome ending of perverse retribution in this well developed, rapidly moving novel.  Do you agree that justice was served?  Reviewed by the author of The Children's Story,A Novel Not for Children (about good and evil).
3174938
THE COMMON LAW LIBRARY REMAINS AS REFRESHING AS EVER
WITH THE NEW FIFTH EDITION ON CONTEMPT LAWS

An appreciation by Elizabeth Robson Taylor of Richmond Green Chambers and Phillip Taylor MBE, Head of Chambers
and Reviews Editor, The Barrister

One of the most enduring aspects of the top level legal works is Sweet and Maxwells Common Law Library. It remains of the highest authoritative value as legal publications for the judiciary, lawyers and academics. If you want to identify where the law can be found on any major area of substantive importance look no further than this Library of books. And that remains the case with the new fifth edition of the Law of Contempt which first appeared in 1982.

The new edition appears some five years after its predecessor at a time of substantial technological change, particularly with regard to the role of the juror. As the editors write, there has been a resurgence of interest in those who have in various ways by their actions undermined the integrity of trial by jury. Therefore, the editors have included some most useful commentary on recent case law authorities both here and in Europe.

Of course, the temptations of the internet will remain as real concerns for the judiciary plus the ever present issues of human rights laws which are very well covered in the new edition which has incorporated all the supplements since the fourth edition.

We found the information on reform from the Law Commission enlightening, specifically their Reports on contempt No 335 covering the dead letter subject of scandalising (still with us apparently!).  Their report dealing with contempt on the face of the court has been delayed, but will presumably be resurrected for a future edition of this most impressive work. Fortunately we have useful commentary on the significant changes which affect both civil and criminal contempt, and coverage of Part 81 of the CPR.

The editors state that open justice has been a continuing theme, and this is especially so with family matters and the protection of journalists sources.  The text has been revised to include a number of new practice directions and other guidance which we found most useful.  They cover matters like access, reporting restrictions and the publication of judgments which will be of particular interest to many readers.

For the first time, more consideration is given to the access and availability of visual recordings at a time when IT is progressing at a very fast pace. The Preface to the book makes some important observations about visual access although it is, of course, confined to the higher courts at present. It is very clear that this area will require another visit for the next edition when the fourth industrial revolution really hits the legal world.

There is a final word of warning. Most proceedings we are involved in are slow moving and technical so that there is little to hold the attention of the casual onlooker. The advice (or approach) is that the presence of cameras does not intrude upon or inhibit the court process.  Therefore, rightly so, protection must be afforded to those who may not be able to cope so well with such distractions.  In essence, after the comments from experiences in the New Zealand courts, it will be a slow process of evolution but probably inevitable.

A team of ten additional contributors make this new edition as complete as it can be and they, together with the editors, have made this work the definitive authority on contempt at a time of change; we cannot do our work as practitioners without these Common Law Library books so thank you all very much for what you have achieved here.

The publication date is 23rd May 2017.
1726053
Working with foster youth I am always reminded of their daily struggles & challenges, which are numerous. Stories like Etched in Sand need to be told. Unfortunately too many people in society follow the rule "out of sight; out of mind". These children belong to all of us. They are the future generation and will someday take care of us. It is important to pay it forward for not only their success but the success of our country.
1385469
I've been a fan for quite some time. I think the new record is some of Foster's best work. He wrote the title cut as an apology to his ex-wife.

He wrote NOT IN MY HOUSE for his daughter and I can't wait to hear it live. We need a country voice speaking out about hate speech and intolerance.

THE MAN YOU WANT was written as a love letter to his wife.

WHOSE HEART YOU WRECK is the story of the ups and downs he's experienced as a songwriter.

His duet with Patty Griffin on MINE UNTIL THE MORNING is just about as hard core country as you can get.

Kacey Musgraves handles harmony on CALIFORNIA, one of the loveliest ballads to come out of Nashville in some time.

There's not a bad cut on the record and Foster's voice is in top form. The record is in constant rotation on my computer, iPad and iPhone. I listen to music for a living and EVERYTHING I SHOULD HAVE SAID is one of the best albums to cross my desk in 2014.
3016438
Having followed this story for quite some time, I am pleased to see it documented truthfully and accurately by Jody Ortiz.  Mrs. Ortiz has been carefully following the wrongful conviction of Raye Dawn Smith for a very long time, having thoroughly compiled the facts as they relate to this case.  It is unfortunate that she has had to endure cyberbullying and cyberstalking simply for fighting for the truth. However, in bringing this to light, we can be encouraged that laws will be changed so that she and others can be protected in what should be a country of free and safe expression.
Excellent book. Well written. Your dedication to see that justice is served is a gift to all in this country where our rights and freedoms must be protected. Thank you Jody for bringing light to the truth of injustice in this case.
Wendy Norbom
National Coalitions for Criminal Justice Reform
783705
Definitely a good read. I enjoyed the characters and the story development. I recommend this for those who really like suspense and justice!
2531695
In Raised by the Courts , Justice  Irene Sullivan incorporates nine years of experience on the bench to educate, illuminate and motivate readers toward a shift in American juvenile justice policy.

In this sweeping work covering personal stories of affected youth; critical elements within the judicial, commitment and legislative systems; and a host of programs from her home state of Florida and beyond, Judge Sullivan brings a singular and galvanizing voice to a growing national tragedy.
The author's argument begins with the premise that America is now known as "incarceration nation".  A century of world leadership modeling humane, effective treatment for juveniles has given way to America's current and dubious distinction for locking up more youth than any other country in the world.

Presenting evidence that's both practical and empirical, Judge Sullivan argues for a shift away from traditional commitment sentences and a move toward alternative programs that assist young people in learning productive life skills in positive, formative environments. Her arguments contend that early intervention, rehabilitation, and community-based programs that address high-risk families reduce incarceration, avoid recitivism and save huge sums of taxpayer money.

For me, the read proved challenging - not because it was written in legalese or dry, textbook language. To the contrary, Judge Sullivan's work can be as easily understood by the layman as it is for academic, correctional, public policy and legislative experts.  Instead, I found myself too closely envisioning the lives, faces and nearly unfathomable sorrows of young children whose lives are cited within the pages of her book. Having spent a few years visiting incarcerated teenagers, I've witnessed firsthand some of the oversight, abuse and hopelessness about which Judge Sullivan speaks.

Criticized by detractors as "Judge Hug-a-Thug", author Irene Sullivan recounts both her successes and failures while serving on the bench. Her attempts to provide compassionate second chances have been met with mixed results; yet, a genuine interest in advocating for juvenile offenders while balancing the society's larger need for safety has taught her much and exposed her to the multifaceted elements involved in addressing, overhauling and managing a seemingly overwhelming national scourge. Judge Sullivan's learning process has included visiting kids behind bars, intervening to improve or close down harmful residence facilities, and connecting with juvenile justice leaders in academia and development.

For a system so obviously in need of repair, Judge Irene Sullivan's work spotlights numerous enlightening programs from around the country with statistically proven merit and significant cost-saving results. She concludes her work by setting forth a list of "non-negotiable" items with which to guide and unite future juvenile justice programs and policy.

Raised by the Courts - a worthwhile and recommended read for anyone interested in the future of America's youth and social vitality. The robust index of juvenile programs makes this work a valuable and necessary resource for every professional library where juvenile justice is of concern.
3389246
I am currently a little over halfway through this book and highly recommend!  It is a great read for those considering, pursuing, or reflecting on foster care.  I love how each chapter ends with how God used the placement to teach and grow them as parents and individuals.
4973908
Annie Delacorte's husband was killed and the people responsible now want to keep Annie from testifying against them. Annie and her child go into the witness protection program to keep them safe until the trial. U.S. marshal Hunter Davis is assigned to protect Annie while in the program. He's a pretty straight-forward, by-the-book kinda guy, who never becomes emotionally involved with a case. Annie is different though. No matter how he hard he tries to remain aloof he's drawn to her and her daughter. Annie feels drawn to Hunter as well but knows to him, she's just a job. After the trial, will they go there separate ways or will she remain Safe by the Marshal's Side?

I always enjoy Shirlee McCoy's books and this is no exception. Learning what it would be like to be in the witness protection program was interesting. I'm sure it would be extremely difficult and I think the author did a good job of showing those emotions. Annie was a strong woman for all that happened to her. Her daughter, Sophia, was really cute. Hunter was a great guy who had a tender heart. He was also good at his job. Though this was not an edge of your seat type story, there was some suspense and a mystery that remains open ended, leaving room for the other books in the Witness Protection series. There was some romance but I would say it's on the light side. One thing I really appreciated about Annie was the realization that though she was alone (because of being in the Witness Protection Program) she really wasn't because the Lord had never left her. He was watching over her and her daughter. Overall Safe by the Marshal's Side is a good start to the Witness Protection series.

*This complimentary copy was provided by Harlequin through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
4344016
This book is a must read for every family law judge, attorney, probation officer and social worker. It's a must for foster parents and police officers involved in juvenile cases.
1843039
I liked the use of foster children to set tone and theme for this mystery. I had a hard time putting this book down.
339561
Sara, age 10 and her sister Sister Anna, age 12 are abandoned by their parents. Their mother left home with barely a goodbye and their father was is in jail and struggles with drug addiction. Soon the sisters, despite their pleas, are placed in foster care. Sara, although younger, protects her older sister who is fragile from all of the trauma she has been through and we learn that this is their second time through the foster care system.

Although the author, with her clear and crisp writing, allows us to feel the sisters intense pain over their losses and beautifully describes the conflict that Sara goes through as she realizes that her sister needs more help than she can give, I found it hard to fully immerse myself in the story. All I could think was that I have never heard or seen the social welfare system work as well as in this book. As a social worker I have seen hundred's of children go through the foster care system and it does not look like this. It is possible to have one good foster parent but I have not seen any kids go through the foster system (especially twice) and have such caring, astute, loving adults in their lives. Being in foster care is hard, and often borders on its own kind of neglect so it just felt surreal to read this story. So, three stars because of the portraits of two sisters who love each other, for a story that conveys the sadness and trauma of severe neglect but hampered by the picture perfect account  of the foster system. Thank you to Netgalley and Simon and Schuster for allowing me to review this book for an honest opinion.
108102
This is an excellent book, even for those of us who have been working for justice for many years. The authors have a comprehensive approach, using the whole of scripture from genesis to revelation.  I also liked the emphasis on worship and sabbath - it's easy for us to run ahead trying to do justice on our own terms, which can lead to burn-out.  It's refreshing to be reminded that this is God's battle, and our work should always include  a focus on God's justice and God's leading.