Lubbock Criminal Defense Lawyers Association

The Lubbock County Commissioners Court decided recently to removed the monument that has been on the courthouse lawn since April. Spearheaded by the LCDLA, the politically-offensive granite slab is now in being carted off in garbage bins. Though critics claim it is a slap in the face to victims, people who truly understand the issue should be most pleased with the outcome.

Judge Darnell wants members to file writs three weeks after clients are arrested if not indicted. You can download sample forms from the Resources page. Comments should be sent directly to Judge Darnell: jdarnell@co.lubbock.tx.us

If you have a sample form for a different circumstance, please send it to me and I will put it on the web page: patmetze@aol.com

The Lubbock Criminal Defense Lawyers Association applauds the decision made by the Commissioners Court to hold a public vote July 25^th on a resolution regarding the removal of the monument. However, the delay may have a negative impact on citizens who trust our justice system to be a fair and unbiased one.

We trust, despite the delay, the Commissioners will make the right decisionand commend their willingness to make their positions known to the public.

Again, our organization does not merely request that the monument be removed. We demand it be removed. Each additional day the monument remains standing is one day too long. LCDLA will take appropriate remedial action after the July 25^th vote, if necessary.

To officials and public stakeholders:

The Task Force on Indigent Defense is developing a strategic plan to help guide program implementation over the next few years. Prior to holding a strategic planning session with members and staff the Task Force wanted to receive input from stakeholders. Part of the session is going to look at policy and standard development. This survey is designed to receive input from our constituency on what policies and standards are important to promote improvements of indigent defense services in your community as required by statute.

Please click on this link: http://tfid.tamu.edu/PrioritySurvey and complete the survey by July 15, 2005. If you desire to print and fax the survey – fax it to 512-475-3450.

You are encouraged to forward this. Your participation in this brief survey is appreciated. Thank you for assistance.

Sincerely,
James D. Bethke, Director
Task Force on Indigent Defense