The Techniques in Electronic Case Management Workshop focuses on the use of technology to improve the organization, review, and analysis of case materials, with a concentration on discovery and 3rd party information obtained through investigation.

The Sentencing Commission has voted to propose New Amendments to the Sentencing Guidelines that will take effect November 1, 2010, absent congressional action.  The proposed amendments include the elimination of criminal history points for recent imprisonment under guideline 4A1.1(e).  They also include encouraged downward departures based on age, mental, emotional and physical condition, and military service, for cultural assimilation in certain immigration cases.  To see the text of the amendments, 

The Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts' Litigation Support page defines litigation support, provides contact information for the National Litigation Support Team, and contains links to the following resources: (1) a document defining common litigation support teams; (2) an Initial Discovery Assessment Checklist; (3) Recommended E-Discovery Practices for CJA Attorneys; and (4) a Guide for CJA Panel Attorneys on Obtaining Litigation Support Resources.

Congress has authorized and provided funds to increase the hourly rates and compensation maximums for Criminal Justice Act cases.  The non-capital hourly attorney rate will go up from $110 to $125.  The new rates apply to work performed on or after January 1, 2010.  Click here for a chart of the new rates.

December 1, 2009, brings important changes to the Federal Rules of Criminal and Appellate Procedure.  Please refer to the local rules of your division.  Also, Brad Bogan, one our Research & Writing Specialist and webiste blogger, has authored an article to help guide you through these changes . . .