About Oni Harton, Esq.
Oni Harton is an experienced estate planning and litigation attorney. She has been writing and researching for more than two decades and enjoys contributing to efforts that connect people with critical legal services. Oni contributes to Super Lawyers by creating content and verifying the legal accuracy of articles. Oni is an Indiana University School of Law graduate. She is licensed in Indiana.
Articles written by Oni Harton, Esq.
Section 1983 Lawsuits: Suing the Government for Civil Rights Violations
42 U.S.C. Section 1983 is part of the Civil Rights Act of 1871. It allows you to sue state and local government officials in a civil action when, acting under the color of state law, they violate your civil rights. Understanding what qualifies as a civil rights violation under Section 1983, who can be held responsible, what type of evidence is required to prove your case, and what to expect during the legal process can help you protect your rights. To learn more about pursuing a civil rights …
What Is Space Law?
Space law refers to the body of laws that govern space-related activities. Like general international law, space law comprises a variety of governing norms and principles, including: International agreements Outer space treaties International conventions United Nations General Assembly resolutions Regulations of international organizations Space law impacts everyday life more than most people realize. It affects satellites that support GPS, weather forecasting, television, internet access, and …
How To File an Amicus Brief: A Step-By-Step Legal Guide
An amicus curiae brief, Latin for “friend of the court,” is a legal document filed by a person or organization that is not a party to a lawsuit but who contributes their expertise or perspective to help the court make an informed ruling in the case. Amicus briefs provide additional perspective, expert knowledge, and a clearer sense of how a decision may affect individuals or groups beyond the parties in the case. They frequently align with one of the parties in an appeal challenging a …
Attorney Fees: Who Pays if You Win a Lawsuit?
Legal disputes are expensive, and attorney fees are a major concern for anyone involved in a lawsuit. In most cases in the United States, each party pays its own attorney's fees, even if it wins. However, there are specific exceptions to this rule depending on the type of case and the applicable law. If you have additional questions about who pays if you win a lawsuit, consult a local lawyer who practices general litigation. The American Rule for Attorney Fees Under the American Rule, each …
Is It Street Legal? Driving Golf Carts, ATVs, and LSVs on Public Roads
The legality of driving non-traditional vehicles like golf carts, ATVs, or LSVs on public roads depends entirely on federal, state, and local laws, as well as the specific type of vehicle you intend to drive. Golf carts, ATVs, and LSVs can be a fun, efficient way to travel around a community, make a short trip down the road, or enjoy natural spaces. But owners and operators must be aware of and follow the local rules governing the use of non-traditional vehicles on public roadways to stay safe …
What Are Alternative Legal Service Providers? How ALSPs Help Your Case
Alternative legal service providers (ALSPs) are non-lawyer firms that use purpose-built technology to perform legal work. They are designed to perform these tasks more efficiently and at a lower cost than traditional law firms. ALSPs are at the forefront of dramatic shifts in the legal industry’s business model, driven by new legal technologies, client demand for cost-effective solutions, and the need for greater efficiency and flexibility in delivering high-quality legal services. Although …
Is It Legal To Install Solar Panels in My Backyard?
As residential electricity prices have soared in recent years, more Americans are looking for ways to reduce energy costs. Solar panels, especially small-scale solar units, are quickly growing as a sustainable, renewable energy solution. However, the legality of installing solar panels depends entirely on where you live. State laws, HOA rules, and local ordinances all play a role in determining whether you can install solar panels. If you have questions about your rights related to installing …
Are Psychedelics Legal? Psilocybin Laws, Decriminalization, and Medical Access
Interest in the use of psychedelic drugs for treating conditions such as depressive disorders, substance use disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other conditions has greatly increased in recent years. Despite this momentum, no psychedelic drug has been approved in the United States. The legal landscape for psychedelics law remains a patchwork of state laws and federal regulations. If you need help understanding the legal framework governing psychedelic use in your state or are facing …
Two Homes, Two Taxes? A Legal Guide to Taxes on Second Homes
For tax reporting and deductions, the IRS classifies a second home as either a personal residence or rental property, depending on how many days you rent it versus live in it personally. Eligible deductions depend on whether the second home is used personally or rented out. Whether as a homeowner looking to increase rental income or as a home buyer purchasing a vacation property, understanding the tax implications is critical to avoiding surprises at tax time. If you need legal guidance …
Litigation Finance: Can Third-Party Litigation Funding Help Your Case?
Many plaintiffs struggle with the cost of litigation, even when they have strong legal claims. Litigation finance, including third-party litigation funding (TPLF), has become a way for litigants to pursue cases without the immediate financial burden of legal fees and related expenses. TPLF enables plaintiffs to seek justice regardless of their financial situation by letting third parties pay attorney and legal fees. If you need legal assistance with a case, speak with a general litigation …
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