Legal Authority Research Articles

IZombie: Evil corporations, culpability and ir/responsibility

iZombie (2015–19) is set in Seattle where part of its population is infected with a zombie virus created by a corporation. iZombie sustains the productive use of the zombie to explore consumption and late-stage capitalism, but unlike most other zombie fiction, situates this in a familiar, banal present where social and governmental institutions, laws and bureaucracies continue to operate. Central to these questions is the role and responsibility of corporations, situated within an eminently recognizable, but not particularly effective, law and order. iZombie accurately portrays the continued production of a dangerous product within a legal framework that protects corporations and investors, rather than customers. Given the dependence of zombies on access to brains, the series sheds light on the responsibility of consumers, legal authorities and broader society in perpetuating harms. In light of our increasing dependence upon corporations and the systemic harms that they cause, what kinds of justice are available? This article will consider how corporate wrongdoing, legal conceptions of corporate criminal responsibility and the im/possibility of justice are mis/represented in the first season of the series.

Examination of fire scene reconstructions using virtual reality to enhance forensic decision-making. A case study in Scotland.

When attending a crime scene, first responders are responsible for identifying areas of potential interest for subsequent forensic examination. This information is shared with the police, forensic practitioners, and legal authorities during an initial meeting of all interested parties, which in Scotland is known as a forensic strategy meeting. Swift documentation is fundamental to allow practitioners to learn about the scene(s) and to plan investigative strategies, traditionally relying on word-of-mouth briefings using digital photographs, videos, diagrams, and verbal reports. We suggest that these early and critical briefings can be augmented positively by implementing an end-to-end methodology for indoor 3D reconstruction and successive visualisation through immersive Virtual Reality (VR). The main objective of this paper is to provide an integrative documentation tool to enhance the decision-making processes in the early stages of the investigation. Taking a fire scene as an example, we illustrate a framework for rapid spatial data acquisition of the scene that leverages structure-from-motion photogrammetry. We developed a VR framework that enables the exploration of virtual environments on a standalone, low-cost immersive head-mounted display. The system was tested in a two-phased inter-agency fire investigation exercise, where practitioners were asked to produce hypotheses suitable for forensic strategy meetings by (1) examining traditional documentation and then (2) using a VR walkthrough of the same premises. The integration of VR increased the practitioners’ scene comprehension, improved hypotheses formulation with fewer caveats, and enabled participants to sketch the scene, in contrast to the orientation challenges encountered using conventional documentation.

Polar Bears and Gavels

Abstract This article analyses the increasingly pervasive enrolment of visual materials in the evolution and contestation of international criminal justice. We posit that this emerging field of ‘visual advocacy’ is transforming how international criminal law is produced and perceived. Visual advocacy stands to complement and reinforce, but also to challenge and subvert conventional norms and narratives. To probe how these dynamics play out in practice, we delve into the role of imagery in the ongoing controversy over the international criminalization of severe environmental destruction as ‘ecocide’. By articulating claims to non-human victimhood, the ecocide campaign pioneers an ecocentric vision that disrupts the anthropocentric aesthetics of international criminal law. Through a visual content analysis of 68 images posted by the movement organization Stop Ecocide International on X/Twitter and Instagram over the course of 2022, we explore how victimhood is depicted and concretized, how such imageries are framed, and how they appeal to legal authority. While our analysis underlines the critical potential of visual media as an epistemically emancipatory vehicle, it also evinces enduring ties to reductionist stereotypes and well-worn ‘aesthetic biases’.

Practice Patterns for Managing Recurrent Glioblastoma Multiforme

Abstract Introduction Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a devastating form of cancer with a poor prognosis despite available treatments. Managing recurrent GBM remains challenging and lacks guidelines. This study aims to provide practice patterns for managing recurrent GBMs in India. Methods A panel of experts was assembled to develop practice patterns using the Delphi technique. Their responses were analyzed anonymously to ensure impartiality and generate recommendations. The statements were intended to be nonbinding and focused on promoting best practices in the field, without legal or regulatory authority. Results A total of 23 experts participated in the study, providing their opinions on various aspects of managing recurrent GBM. Consensus was achieved on individualized and multidisciplinary management as the preferred approach. Surgery in combination with other treatments was found to impact survival in patients older than 65 years, with re-surgery and adjuvant radiation and chemotherapy being the preferred options. Gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain with spectroscopy and diffusion-weighted imaging was favored. Molecular profiling was considered significant, with O6-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase methylation being most relevant. Surgery was recommended for recurrent GBMs, primarily based on Karnofsky's performance score (KPS). Surgical adjuncts such as neuronavigation and intraoperative MRI were considered valuable. Radiation therapy, specifically stereotactic radiosurgery, was recommended for selected cases, while opinions on re-chemotherapy were divided. Palliative care was deemed important. Conclusion This study presents practice patterns for managing recurrent GBM in India, providing standardized recommendations for practice. By implementing these, clinicians can make informed decisions, leading to improved patient outcomes and reduced variability in the management of recurrent GBM.

Large language models as tax attorneys: a case study in legal capabilities emergence.

Better understanding of Large Language Models' (LLMs) legal analysis abilities can contribute to improving the efficiency of legal services, governing artificial intelligence and leveraging LLMs to identify inconsistencies in law. This paper explores LLM capabilities in applying tax law. We choose this area of law because it has a structure that allows us to set up automated validation pipelines across thousands of examples, requires logical reasoning and maths skills, and enables us to test LLM capabilities in a manner relevant to real-world economic lives of citizens and companies. Our experiments demonstrate emerging legal understanding capabilities, with improved performance in each subsequent OpenAI model release. We experiment with retrieving and using the relevant legal authority to assess the impact of providing additional legal context to LLMs. Few-shot prompting, presenting examples of question-answer pairs, is also found to significantly enhance the performance of the most advanced model, GPT-4. The findings indicate that LLMs, particularly when combined with prompting enhancements and the correct legal texts, can perform at high levels of accuracy but not yet at expert tax lawyer levels. As LLMs continue to advance, their ability to reason about law autonomously could have significant implications for the legal profession and AI governance. This article is part of the theme issue 'A complexity science approach to law and governance'.

High Salmonella load with serovar virchow dominance pose major public safety risk in postchill broiler carcasses

The objective of this study was to determine Salmonella contamination levels, presence and serovar distribution in broiler carcasses before and after chilling, as well as to evaluate the effectiveness of chilling process. A total of 96 pooled neck skin samples (PNSS) of 48 prechill (PreC) and 48 postchill (PosC) carcasses, representing 480 broilers collected in 6 mo' period were analyzed using ISO 6579-2:2012 Miniaturized Most Probable Number (ISO-mMPN) technique. Species confirmation and serovar identification was performed by Salmonella-specific real-time PCR (Salm-PCR) and conventional serotyping, respectively. Mean Salmonella count was 1.84 log10 MPN/g in PreC, and 1.48 log10 MPN/g in PosC samples, indicating a statistically significant reduction of 0.36 log10 MPN/g (p < 0.05) in the counts by plant's air chill system. Salmonella positivity reduced from 97.9% (47/48) in PreC to 85.42% (41/48) in PosC samples, confirmed by Salm-PCR with identified serovars as S. Virchow (89.77 %) followed by S. Schwarzengrund (9.09%) and S. Bredeney (1.14%). Persistence of high load and prevalence of Salmonella with serovar Virchow dominance (other than the ones mandated in current guidelines) in the final product contributes significant and up to date data to relevant literature, and provides unbiased epidemiological reference to legal authorities for future relevant revisions.

ANALISIS PERAN AGEN DALAM MENINGKATKAN JUMLAH NASABAH DAN PANGSA PASAR PADA PT. PEGADAIAN (Persero) UPC TONGAS KABUPATEN PROBOLINGGO

PT. Pegadaian (Persero) is a non-bank financial institution that has the legal authority to finance loans on a pawn basis. The aim of this research is to analyze the role of agents in increasing the number of customers and expanding market share at PT. Pegadian (Persero) UPC Tongas, Probolinggo Regency. The research method used is qualitative with a descriptive approach of case studies at pawnshops. Data collection techniques used include interviews, observation, secondary data and documentation. Findings show that pawnshops are business partners of the company, this is one of Pegadian's marketing strategies. Pegadian agents play an important role in increasing the customer base by expanding market reach and increasing sales volume through distribution channels. Research also shows that pawnshop agents' performance improves when their own income increases. Therefore, Pegadian must provide ongoing training to keep agents motivated and maintain the quality of their sales channels. Therefore, the role of agents in the financial industry has a significant impact on whether companies can achieve higher profits through effective distribution channels. Keywords: Agent Role, Number of Customers, Market Share, Pawnshop

Tantangan dan Kontroversi terhadap Dampak Serta Implikasi dalam Implementasi PP No. 35 Tahun 2023

On 16 Juni 2023, the new government amended the previous law on Taxation and Redistributing Districts (BPHTB) to include all rights of land and property (exchange, grant, inheritance, land income into the company, etc.). The aim is to optimize the distribution of land through BPHTB. The critical passage in the PP is Pasal 18 ayat 2, which defines the conditions for BPHTB, including the creation of a legal authority, the right to be a wari, the right to be a judge, the right to be a judge, the right to be a judge, the right to be a judge, the right to be a judge, the right to be a judge, and the right to be a judge. The study uses normative research to analyze the PPAT's role in determining the status of BPHTB and its impact on the law. The study also examines the legal resertact process, which involves examining the law's consistency with the law and the legal norms.

Reflections on Chiefs as Ex Officio Members of the Land Boards, Botswana

The government of Botswana enacted the Tribal Land Act in 1968, which created statutory land boards in 1970. They replaced dikgosi (chiefs) from the administration of tribal land. However, from 1970 to 1984, dikgosi wielded considerable power in these five to six member boards then, as the only ex officio members. They had the legal authority to appoint one member, of their choice, to the land board. In most instances, the kgosi (chief), or his appointee, became the board’s chair and influenced its decisions. The Tribal Land (Amendment of Schedule) Order of 1984 introduced a major change by removing dikgosi’s powers to appoint anyone to the land board. It introduced the democratic elections of members of the land boards by communities. However, this has since been discontinued also in favour of the controversial ‘direct’ appointment by the Minister. Dikgosi remain ceremonial ex officio members of the land boards, with no voting rights, a situation they strongly abhor. This article critically analyses the status and role of dikgosi as ex officio members of the land boards within the framework of the Tribal Land Act since 1968. It also draws from other relevant legislations, secondary sources, and the views of some former land board members.

Legitimacy of the courts: evidence from a survey in Punjab, Pakistan

ABSTRACT Procedural justice is generally considered a primary indicator by which legal authorities, such as police and courts, establish legitimacy. However, considering the context of the criminal justice system in Pakistan, this paper examines whether the perceptions of accurate verdicts, along with perceptions of procedural justice, are associated with the perceptions of legitimacy of the courts. The data for this cross-sectional study come from an online survey of the general population in Punjab, Pakistan. The results of the multiple regression models affirm the study hypotheses. The findings suggest that people are judgemental; they not only evaluate whether the authorities (judges) act procedurally in just ways during encounters with the public but also retrospectively keep a record of previous memories regarding court verdicts. These memories shape their perceptions of whether the authorities are legitimate.

Article: Exclusion of Bidders in Spain: Analysing Challenges Posed by National Competition Law

This paper examines the Spanish Competition Authority’s (CNMC) most ground-breaking implementation of the bidder exclusion for competition infringement since March 2019. Through an analysis of key case-law and regulations, we explore the CNMC’s traditional approach to debarment decisions and its subsequent reconsideration following influential judgments from the High Court of Justice of Catalonia. This study sheds light on the evolving landscape of the bidder exclusion, and provides valuable insights into its legal nature, application procedure, and potential effects on fostering fair and transparent competition in Spain. bidder exclusion, collusive practices, restrictive measure, lack of legal authority, sanctioning procedure, public procurement, individual sanctioning, procedural fairness, adversarial system, Spanish competition policy

Factors influencing deceased organ donation rates in OECD countries: a panel data analysis

ObjectivesThis study aims to investigate factors with a significant influence on deceased organ donation rates in Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries and determine their relative importance. It...

Harmonizing Arbitration: Clarity, Consistency, and Consent in the Application of Ex Aequo Et Bono

This article delves into the intricate dynamics surrounding the application of the ex aequo et bono principle in arbitration, addressing concerns arising from potential procedural challenges and deviations from justice principles amid the escalating popularity of arbitration. The study intricately navigates the legal complexities of this principle, centering on the interpretation of Article 56 of Law 30/1999. Specifically, it scrutinizes whether the article mandates parties' consent for the arbitrator to decide based on ex aequo et bono. Employing a normative legal research approach and utilizing legal hermeneutics with a structuralist focus, the research analyzes the interplay of written agreements, tacit understandings, and standard practices in arbitration. The article underscores the critical role of precise protocols and unequivocal agreements in safeguarding the integrity and effectiveness of the arbitration process. It highlights the paramount need for clarity and consistency in legal provisions, advocating for collaborative efforts between legal authorities and arbitration institutions. This collaboration is essential for aligning statutory provisions and arbitration rules, ultimately fortifying a robust and dependable framework for the equitable resolution of conflicts. In conclusion, the article calls for a harmonized approach to address inconsistencies, enhance the legitimacy of arbitration decisions, and foster trust in the arbitration process. By exploring these challenges, the article contributes to the ongoing discourse of optimizing arbitration as a fair and efficient means of resolving international disputes.

SOCIAL INVESTMENT: CSR STRATEGY IN THE FIELD OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BY PT. PLN INDONESIA POWER CILEGON PGU

When industrialization began in 1930, in line with the world economic recession, there were massive protests from the public demanding company transparency in their operational activities. The term Corporate Social Responsibility or CSR emerged among companies, which was soon followed by legal authority that regulated mandatory CSR for companies and in the 2000s in Indonesia, the term CSR began to be known intensively in social investment through the concept of development. public. The approach used in this research is qualitative with descriptive methods. Through observations and interviews conducted, the research results showed that the social investment carried out by PT. PLN Indonesia Power inventories the community around the company with social service activities, environmental service and other assistance activities through community service and community relations programs and empowers them in various aspects through several programs, such as plasma farmers, Climate Villages, Waste Banks and MSMEs. These three programs are interrelated in maintaining harmony and public trust. So that through these programs, sustainability can be achieved for the company. Key words: social investment, community development, CSR

The Challenges of Filling Cases to the International Criminal Court

The International Criminal Court is one of the pillars of the international criminal judicial system that was established according to the Rome Statute with the aim of prosecuting individuals accused of crimes of an international nature according to the jurisdictions that fall under its legal jurisdictional authority. However, the court faces obstacles and problems with regard to submitting and referring cases to the court. The researchers attempt to shed light on some of these problems. The researchers found that the problems are divided into four main categories related to the referrals from signatory states, referrals from non-signatory states, referrals from the United Nations Security Council, and referrals from the Prosecutor of the Court. The researchers presented a number of solutions and suggestions that aim to develop the work of the court and increase its effectiveness to achieve the ultimate goal of achieving justice and protecting victims.

AUTHORITY OF NOTARY IN LEGALIZING THE UNDER-HAND AGREEMENT DEED: EXAMINING RESPONSIBILITY AND LEGAL CONSEQUENCES

This research examines the legal authority of notaries in legalizing underhand deed agreements based on their responsibilities and legal consequences. The method used in this research is normative legal research method, which is based on statutory approach and conceptual approach. The results obtained show that the responsibility of a notary in legalizing a deed agreement under the hand must be able to guarantee that he is able to carry out, implement, and realize the existence of laws governing the activities of legalizing letters under the hand including to see or check the validity of agreements made by related parties by being careful and disciplined in carrying out procedures for legalizing letters under the hand in accordance with the Notary Position Law. The legal consequences arising in the ratification of the agreement of the deed under the hand, namely if the letter has been legalized by the Notary, the letter under the hand has formal evidentiary power but does not have outward and material evidentiary power. In carrying out its duties, if a Notary is proven to have violated the law, it can be subject to civil sanctions in the form of reimbursement of costs, compensation and interest by passing the evidentiary process. However, a Notary cannot be convicted if they have not committed a violation of a criminal article and have acted in the interest of implementing the provisions of the Notary Law

Dispute over the 1974 MoU Box between Indonesia and Australia: How MoU Legally Binding in Two Countries?

This study aims to delineate the legal authority of Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) within the jurisdictions of Indonesia and Australia, particularly concerning the resolution of international civil law disputes. The research employs a normative juridical approach, utilizing legal reviews and secondary data for support. The findings reveal that in civil law states, notably Indonesia, MoUs are regarded as binding agreements in accordance with the "Agreement is Agreement" perspective as per Article 1338 (1) of the Civil Code. Conversely, common law states, such as Australia, generally perceive MoUs as non-legally binding. However, an MoU may attain validity and binding status if it fulfills the six stipulated requirements outlined in Australian contract law. To address the dispute surrounding the 1974 MoU BOX between Indonesia and Australia, resolution options include examining international civil law rules based on primary and secondary links or resorting to an international arbitral tribunal.

The Role of Forensic Accounting in Detecting Financial Frauds

This research targets to explore the important role of forensic accounting in detecting and preventing financial fraud amidst dynamic changes within the business world. Through a systematic literature review method, we explore the contribution of forensic accounting through in-depth investigations of financial records, identification of suspicious activity patterns, collaboration with security and legal authorities, and fraud prevention through financial control design. The results verify that forensic accounting isn't the most effective retrospective tool, but also proactive in mitigating the chance of financial fraud in the future. This has a look at summarizing these findings with the reason of presenting a holistic view of the essential role of forensic accounting in keeping a company's financial integrity.

Accident Detection and Alert System

With increasing demands for automobiles, a drastic increase can be seen in road accidents. As per data given by the WHO (https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/road-traffic-injuries) 1.35 million people die every year due to road accidents. This data is alarming and draws our attention to provide a method to eradicate this issue. Many times when an accident is occurred the exact location of the incident is not provided to either emergency contacts or legal authorities .This cause delay in essential first aid to reach the victims and provide them any means to reach nearby health care facilities. Thus reducing the fatality rate

The Problem of Religious Guidance among Indian Muslims: A Forward-Thinking Proposal

The Indian Muslim community faces a paradox, marked by the presence of religious leaders without a clear path forward. The article identifies a lack of guidance, particularly in matters of faith, as numerous Ulema offer conflicting fatwas, stemming from a flawed Ifta methodology. Tracing the historical evolution of fatwa issuance, the 19th-century shift in India, influenced by the East India Company's trade-focused policies, led to an abundance of independent Ulema. This article explores the historical evolution of Ifta in Islam, with a focus on India. It reviews the transition to formal fatwa institutions, compares practices across regions, and proposes centralizing fatwa authority through a high central council in India, offering recommendations for reform. The absence of a centralized authority for fatwa issuance in India results in a chaotic scenario.To address this, the author proposes a structured solution: establishing a high central council of diverse Ulema and intellectuals. This council would delegate responsibilities for religious and social issues to ensure uniformity in fatwa decisions nationally. However, the article underscores that councils alone are ineffective without legal enforcement authority. This article will show: 1) Abundance of Guidance and Contradictory Fatwas; 2) Evolution of Fatwa Issuance in Islamic History; 3) Current State of Fatwa Issuance and Recommendations for Reform. Additionally, it advocates reevaluating the concepts of 'Dar al-Islam' and 'Dar al-Harb' in the context of India's identity. The author suggests a Parliament-recognized Council to issue fatwas, aligning with democratic principles and reflecting shared ownership among India's diverse Muslim population.