There are numerous ways that the criminal justice system imposes disproportionate burdens on disadvantaged groups and serves as a barrier to advancement.

In times of crisis, there is inevitably a call for the government to pass additional laws or regulations; however, the cost of regulation disproportionately impacts the poor.

Another way to help decrease barriers to upward mobility is reducing the use of college degree requirements in employment posting. Requiring college degrees for employment opportunities disproportionately excludes individuals who do not have access to the same resources and educational opportunities or the ability to take four additional years studying rather than earning money.  

One of the most important things we can do regarding diversity, equity and inclusion is improve outreach regarding the opportunities available and how to achieve them. If no one looks like you or has your background, a system can feel oppressive and impenetrable. Often, human systems that seem natural and instinctual to someone on the inside can appear opaque and impenetrable to someone on the outside looking in, whether it be a new school, new employment, or the political process.  

There are generally two types of responses to problems: remedial responses that address the symptoms of a problem and structural responses that try to address root causes. For example, there may be a lack of diversity on panels and commissions. A remedial response would be to appoint new members to such groups. A structural response would be to identify and address any systemic reasons that caused a lack of diversity in the first place.

While it’s our goal year-round to make you, IndyBar members, more profitable and productive in your practice, we’re taking extra care during the month of September to show you how much we appreciate you!

More news ripped from the headlines on the executive/legislative powers issues! Recently, the Attorney General has asked the Indiana Supreme Court to take up the case by filing a petition for a writ of mandamus and prohibition – a rare procedural move.

To say that I was nervous to go to Bench Bar would be an understatement. I'm not so much a "social butterfly" as I am an "awkward, klutzy moth," and the thought of attending a conference with 300-plus lawyers where I knew fewer than three people was nothing short of terrifying.

An IndyBarHQ utilization task force has been organized, featuring a diverse group of members, to direct our new HQ’s evolution with intention and creativity. The ideas already are simmering vigorously, but we need your help to bring them to a full boil.