High-Stakes Litigation Analysis
The Hicks Legal Journal
Start with the latest featured monographs, then use the topic map to move deeper into the areas that matter to your case.
How to use the journal
Read by category, then by recency.
The journal is organized to help readers understand the big legal themes first and then drill into the most recent analysis. If you want practical help instead of commentary, use the consultation link.
Current coverage
Civil Rights
Federal civil rights, custody deaths, and accountability litigation.
Trucking
Regulations, reconstruction, and commercial vehicle liability.
Personal Injury
Serious injury proof, damages, and case value analysis.
Insurance
Delay tactics, coverage disputes, and claim leverage.
Legal Process
Litigation process, timing, and case development strategy.
Featured Articles
Start here for the newest analysis and the strongest explanatory pieces.
Kinetic Sovereignty: The 18-Wheeler & The Erasure of the Citizen
A critique of Jordan v. Cates and the mechanics of Oklahoma trucking litigation. Why the 18-wheeler is not just a vehicle, but a sovereign entity that erases liability.
The Death of a Remedy: Alex Pretti & The Soul of the 4th Amendment
A philosophical and forensic inquiry into the killing of Alex Pretti. We analyze the 4th Amendment not as a rule for police, but as the definition of the American Citizen.
Recent Articles
These are the most recent entries in the journal. Each card points to a deeper analysis or litigation theme.
Kinetic Sovereignty: The 18-Wheeler & The Erasure of the Citizen
A critique of Jordan v. Cates and the mechanics of Oklahoma trucking litigation. Why the 18-wheeler is not just a vehicle, but a sovereign entity that erases liability.
The Death of a Remedy: Alex Pretti & The Soul of the 4th Amendment
A philosophical and forensic inquiry into the killing of Alex Pretti. We analyze the 4th Amendment not as a rule for police, but as the definition of the American Citizen.
Piercing the Shale Veil: Corporate Structure as a Shield
Oil field operators frequently use fragmented LLC structures to isolate liability. We explain the 'Alter Ego' doctrine and how we pierce the corporate veil in catastrophic injury cases.
The Jurisdictional Void: When Federal Agents Kill
Recent ICE shootings in Minneapolis expose a terrifying reality: under 'Egbert v. Boule', federal agents operate with near-absolute immunity. We analyze the death of the 'Bivens' claim.
The Physics of Liability: Beyond the ELD
Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) can be hacked. The Engine Control Module (ECM) cannot. We explain how we use 'Hard Braking Events' and 'Governor Settings' to prove willful negligence.
The 1-Year Tort Claim Deadline in Oklahoma Explained
Suing a county or city in Oklahoma requires filing a Tort Claim Notice within 1 year. Learn the rules of the Governmental Tort Claims Act (GTCA).
Why "Quick Check" Offers Are a Trap
Adjusters often offer a 'quick check' within days of an accident. Learn why accepting this offer usually means waiving your right to future medical care.
Sovereign Immunity & The "Affirmative Cause" Doctrine
State immunity for ice is not absolute. If the government 'affirmatively causes' the hazard—by plowing snow into a drainage grate that refreezes—they are liable. We analyze the forensic meteorology required.
Archive and supporting analysis
Older monographs are still available here for readers who want the deeper background behind the current stories.
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