#institute for innovation in prosecution

[amarynthian-chronicles]

Tip the Scales Chapter 1

Prosecutor Sun, Prosecutor Moon, Judge Eclipse x Defense Lawyer (Devil's Advocate) Reader

(You are a charismatic defense lawyer in a constant competition with two ruthless prosecutors that do not understand your ideals about criminals deserving a second chance. You are also housemates with a certain bitter and retired judge, who has a habit of operating at night as a cloaked figure known as the Judge of the Damned. Things get complicated when your old friend Monty gets accused of a murder he claims to not have committed willingly. Will you balance the scales once more?)

Warnings: suggestive themes, possessive behaviour, mentions of violence

There was a particular universal truth that court employees would never dare to admit about court proceedings: not a single one of them actually wanted to be there. Those that did enjoy being present during a session were either lying to themselves or were being paid obscene amounts of cash to pretend to care. In other extreme cases, it was all a part of unhinged ambition sprinkled with a dash of insanity.

Normally the whole process was a dreary affair, varying from sordid and depressing, all the way to showing what an administrative inferno the whole institution had become over time. True to the Dickensian fashion of describing things, one could say that the gloomy and omnipresent fog that had consumed the city with the arrival of Fall was equally present in the courtroom itself, both metaphorically and literally, entering every pore and chilling everyone to the bone.

However, in our specific situation things were getting quite heated. The cold September fog had been rudely pushed aside by the steam of intense and fiery debate you were having with prosecuting attorney Sun.

A bitter rivalry existed between you and the celestial-themed animatronic, but over the past year it seemed to have bloomed into obsessive fascination on Sun's part. We could classifiy it as another universal truth that one was bound to eventually become infatuated and captivated by their “nemesis“.

Placing you two in the same room was a very bad idea. Or a very good idea, it honestly depended on who you asked. For instance, the general public that had come to listen to your long nonsensical argument had arrived there for the sole purpose of finding out whether you two would passionately kiss somewhere in the middle of the whole discussion.

The suspense was maddening, the tension was more than palpable. One of the clerks was fanning himself with a folder, wondering whether or not he had taken his heart medication earlier.

“Could somebody open a window, please?“

There had always been an unusually thin line between love and hatred, enemies and lovers, but somehow it seemed oddly fitting for you and Sun to combine both at the same time with no problem.

After a well crafted comeback, believing himself to be the victor, Sun winked at you, triumphant and his grin wide and sinister.

“Was that as good for you as it was for me?“

“My dear sir, I cannot say, I hardly even felt anything.“

“I was under the impression that we have long abandoned this little “playing hard to get“ scenario.“

“Goodness, that sounds serious, delusions could be a sign of a system malfunction, you should get that checked, Sun.“

“Don't be so high and mighty. You will lose today, both the case and the little bet we made.“

“Oh, my, so ominous. I sure am devastated on the inside, inconsolable, I shall probably never recover.“

You were driving him insane. Healthy competition was usually highly encouraged, but this was beyond ridiculous. No matter how eloquent and skillful he was in the art of rhetoric, you refused to yield. You were still a relatively young jurist, having passed the bar examination barely two years prior, but your legal reasoning was unusually innovative and your application of creative solutions to impossible problems was astounding. There wasn't a single thing that Sun could throw at you without you catching it and throwing it ten times harder right back at him.

The judge, an elderly man that was diligently counting down the days till it was socially acceptable to retire from what was regularly a life tenure, was listening to the two of you bicker as if it were the latest installment of his favourite picture show series. He wondered if he should simply let you silly lovebirds borrow his chambers for a minute or two. Or thirty, wherever the feeling takes you. He was very supportive.

He was also the only judge in the building willing to tolerate the nonsense that you and the Celestial Prosecutors kept pulling off in the courtroom. It was free entertainment and he needed some amusement in his old age. The rest of the judicial assembly would have to pull straws each time a new case had to be assigned.

He remembered how different things had been a few years prior.

It was an open secret that the judicial assembly missed the old days when the esteemed Judge Eclipse had still been in office, before his abrupt retirement under unusual circumstances. Eclipse would always volunteer to do all the work, snatching case files from everybody's hands and closing himself in his chambers, leaving the possibility for the rest of the assembly to simply enjoy their coffee and gossip in the conference room.

Intense and immensely dedicated to his work, unyielding, unforgiving and merciless, Eclipse had been akin to a dark deity of the afterlife, deciding the fate of souls that had succumbed to corruption. His golden eyes had held nothing but pure contempt for evildoers, his mechanical heart perpetually hungry for the suffering of the wicked. Court sessions under his administrations had been a thing of horror for some and an example of a job well-done for others. Deranged and disproportionate punishments had made Eclipse quite unpopular in the criminal milieu, and there had been quite a few attempts on his life that would usually end up with the assassins themselves having their spines twisted into a pretty pretzel.

Self-defense, clear-cut, no questions asked, nobody left to mourn a few dismembered rulebreakers.

The euphoria had been too intoxicating, the flesh of Evil too delicious, the screams of the damned a symphony unmatched.

One thing had lead to another, interfering into interrogations, conflict of interest, violating every possible rule of criminal procedure, prisoners being found dead in their cells, acquitted individuals dying under suspicious circumstances mere days after their release.

The courthouse and law enforcement would always turn a blind eye. Whispers in the corridors, silent gasps in the archive rooms, everybody knew of Eclipse's tendencies, his desire to play god. Nobody had dared to make a fuss about the whole situation, not even when a few fellow judges that had been accused of bribery had one day "mysteriously" disappeared. It was all a silent approval. Crime statistics had been fixing themselves, who would dare interfere?

Deciding to return to topics less grim and vile, the current judge smiled fondly at the prosecutors and the sly defense lawyer before him. Such a sweet change, whimsy and passion reigning supreme, banishing the sepulchral dread of olden times.

Contrary to custom, Sun was working with his brother Moon by his side. It was definitely unusual for two prosecutors to work together on same cases and appear in court as a team, but nobody had ever complained about it and regulations had no explicit rule against it. It was Moon's duty to make a thorough research and keep Sun informed of any new facts or legal acts in order for Sun to prepare a proper presentation to enthrall everyone in the courtroom or ask for appropriate actions.

They used all of their individual strengths and skills to achieve the best results. Reminiscent of their older brother's inclinations, their methods and ruthless determination in the pursuit of their version of justice at all costs had become notorious, eventually making the general public refer to them as the Grand Inquisitors.

All of that aside, the two of them still had to make sure that each investigation went perfectly by the books and that there were no irregularities made by law enforcement in the initial stages of each investigation. Being a prosecutor was akin to being a sea captain that constantly kept hoping that his crew was sober. One single mistake meant that the other party would pounce on it like a feral animal.

And pounce you did.

For instance, you were easily capable of rendering a whole confession useless by claiming it was inadmissible evidence obtained through coercion. It was no trouble for you to stage a whole scene.

You had pulled off such a stunt a few times in the past and the results would always follow a hilarious pattern: the confused police officers would simply blink and question their general reality on whether they had truly applied excessive force, the public audience would try not to snack too loudly on the popcorn they had brought, the defendant would do his best to keep crying and keeping his story straight about how absolutely devastated and tortured he was, the judge would hope that no reporters would come crawling in the courtroom and asking about human rights violations. Again.

The celestial twins were unused to such audacity and blows to their pride. Sun and Moon had always been a powerful force that had never known the meaning of failure, the playing field had been theirs to dominate and it was pure madness to even think that anyone could place an end to that. And then you showed up and suddenly the courtroom was a circus, you were the ringmaster and you turned the two of them into the lead jesters of the whole show.

They were furious with you for making a mockery of their act. How dare you?

Moon did his best to remain subtle with his temper, even if his pencils did audibly snap in half from time to time. He had to keep an appearance a patient man, someone courteous and polite. It was of great importance to keep that thick layer of ice above the boiling madness that stirred deep within.

Oh, how you tested his patience still. It all kept accumulating, over and over, cracking the ice bit by bit.

He could write a masterpiece of scholarly analysis and a seemingly perfect reconstruction of events, and you would destroy all of that effort simply by telling him he wrote a date wrong, messing up the entire chronology and all further conclusions, rendering the whole thing useless. You always tripped him with the little things, formalities, so many tidbits that made the whole construction fall apart.

The devil was in the details, after all.

Speaking of which, since the majority of your clients were desperate people that had strayed from the morals of society into a life of crime for mere survival, you had earned yourself the title of Devil's Advocate among your colleagues. The world of your clients, however, was quite grateful for your services and assistance, all of them calling you their Fairy Godparent.

You got them out of trouble, you found them alternatives and new respectful jobs, you gave and gave, granting wishes and making them all happily dance to your music. If anyone had issues or needed help, they knew who to come to. You were waiting with good life advice, cupcakes, a hot cup of coffee and assurance that you would solve all of their problems. In many cases, you were the last angel before the gates of Hell for them, grasping their hand and pulling them back to safety.

After all, placing their fate in your hands was a far better alternative than sinking deeper into darkness and one day being inevitably visited in the middle of the night by the Judge of the Damned, having their life taken as the midnight bells rang.

Because of this looming threat, you did your best to save each soul you came across.

In this particular case, it was a young man that had gotten himself in some serious trouble after associating with a dangerous faction of drug dealers. Such business always came with its risks and there was no true loyalty nor help if someone got caught. Moreover, it was common practice to silence the person from revealing the others by simply ordering their assassination in prison. The young man had gotten way in over his head, too ambitious and too confident in his own abilities, intoxicated with the romantic ideas of what he had seen in movies.

His older brothers had approached you for help after his arrest and you had accepted, of course. You would get the boy out of trouble, free of charge, under the condition that he dedicated himself to getting his life back on track and you would be making sure things stayed that way.

Sun was still waiting for you to speak, and the rest of the room was wondering whether or not you were truly speechless this time or if you were simply preparing something spectacular. Of course, it was the latter. You had pulled a lot of strings and cashed in a few favours, but it was all for a good cause. You heard Sun's impatient voice:

“Ready to admit defeat? There is no conceivable way for you to counter any of this evidence, it is over.“

“Only for those that lack the imagination to do so. I call in question the credibility and the competence of your toxicology expert. You cannot claim that my client was in possession or consuming a certain substance, if its chemical components do no even match what you claim it to be.“

“Pure cocaine was found on his person. He has been known to associate himself with dangerous smugglers of forbidden narcotics.“

“A second analysis, that I took the liberty of ordering from another expert, proved that it was mere flour.“

“Excuse me?“

“He is a baker's apprentice. Poor boy, he is just keeping all of that secret out of shame, which is why we did not mention this earlier, by the way. Alas, I cannot keep this silence anymore, for I must act in his best interest. You see, ever since he was a small lad, it was his dream to make fine Danish pastries, but everyone in his general vicinity was obsessed with the whole “dashing gangster“ persona that is so popular right now, so no wonder that this sad young man, just look at his eyes, this poor innocent child tried to emulate all of that simply to get some respect from his cruel peers. So, he walked around with flour and pretended that it was cocaine. It is all because of societal pressure.“

Had Sun been gifted with a detachable jaw, it would have fallen on the floor by now. It was madness. Your claim was pure madness. He wasn't certain, but he did feel as if all of his systems were about to crash down in a sad attempt at self-preservation. Moon's crimson eyes had turned black and he seemed as if he were silently rebooting himself. It was best for everyone to have him unconscious for a bit, otherwise he would have probably gotten violent. The stenographer stopped typing and blinked at you in a very “what the actual hell“ manner and the old judge took his glasses off emphatically as people normally do in such situations for no specific reason other than dramatic effect.

“God, I haven't felt this much excitement since my last divorce.“

The defendant was very much surprised to hear this as well. He gestured for you to come closer and whispered to you:

“I am a baker's apprentice?“

“You are now. Be the role, become the role, make the rolls. Also, you start next Monday at five in the morning, I got everything already arranged with the baker on main street. This whole process should by over by then.“

“What? The only dough I know how to roll is the monetary one.“

“You learn while you live.“

The poor man looked at you with the expression of someone that would really rather just go to prison than go through such blood pressure oscillations.

His brothers, three friendly chaps in dashing suits, homburg hats and leather gloves, were all smiling and holding a thumbs up in encouragement. He turned around to look at them with a genuinely desperate expression. Listening to this nonsense was punishment enough, regardless if he did the crime or not. They had assured him that you were the best, but nobody ever said that your methods were the sanest.

You cleared your throat and spoke up again:

“In light of this and to support these claims, I enclose all the necessary documents and I am prepared to call the relevant new witnesses if you agree, Your Honour.“

“I can adjourn, I personally got no problem with continuing this on a later day of the week. I have to tell you, you kids are keeping me young, I always thought that my later years in life would be boring. Boy, I sure was wrong.“

A partially drunk man from the spectator area began to clap.

“Bravo!“

The bailiff looked over at him.

“What are you clapping for?“

“I thought this was the theatre.“

“It's a courtroom, is what it is.“

“What's the difference?“

Just as you were about to sit down, Moon was suddenly by your side, having miraculously finished his little reboot session and feeling more energized than ever. It was rather concerning, since he was capable of pulling such a stunt within mere seconds, changing location so fast before you could even register it. You had a theory that he was probably capable of some type of flight or teleportation.

You made a little squeak of surprise as you felt his hands on your shoulders, pulling you close to his face plate, crimson eyes trying to cut your soul to shreds. Nevertheless, you refused to lose your decorum and you kept up an air of aristocratic disinterest.

“May I help you, sir?“

“Don't give me that. You know exactly what you are doing. I am not letting you humiliate us like this again.“

“And you are going to make things better for yourself by intimidating me in public like this? I really want to know what the plan is, I'm curious now.“

“Curiosity will kill you one day, little devil fairy.“

“I am certain that satisfaction will bring me back. What exactly do you want from me?“

He squeezed your shoulders and began to lightly massage them. It was oddly pleasurable, since you were tense and tired. Moon's voice was low, raspy, almost a whisper, akin to that of a nocturnal demon that haunted the shadows and ruled over nightmares.

“What goes around comes around and one day I will humiliate you, as well. I will tear those fairy wings apart.“

“Do you think I am afraid of you?“

“You should be. But, yes, I do have an additional request. Meet us in the conference room as soon as we are done here. We wish to talk.“

For a moment it seemed as if the two of you had forgotten that you were in an oddly compromising embrace in front of the entire courtroom. The same man from the spectator area whispered to the bailiff:

“Is this when the smooching starts? I could have sworn I read it somewhere in the play synopsis.“

“This is not the theatre!“

“Listen, Shakespeare once said that the whole world is a stage. He also said that we should kill all the lawyers, though, but I vote that we keep these three here, I need to know what happens next.“

A normal person would refuse to accept Moon's request after his little outburst, but you wished to talk to him and Sun, as well. Perhaps the old saying of “keep your friends close and your enemies closer“ had some wisdom to it, but you also genuinely wished to somewhat make peace with them. Maybe even explain your perspective and your ideas of justice to them. If things got really wild, possibly even form some fragile bond of friendship.

“Alright, I will be there, I just need some time to get my things first and I will also fetch a cup of coffee.“

You pushed him away and he allowed you to do so. However, his gaze was still on you even as everyone had risen and prepared to leave for the day. He watched you as you cheerfully talked with your client and his family, so warm, so caring. They gave you presents to show their appreciation, bags full of chocolates, teddy bears and a ridiculously large plush rabbit. Such whimsical things, childish and ridiculous, and yet your eyes almost had sparkles from how happy you were.

You were considered a beauty by many, but you were not coquettish, ignoring any amorous comments with your usual aristocratic disdain. Your hair was long and soft, well taken care of, but there were always a few little disobedient tufts that almost appeared like tiny and cute devil horns. It was impossible to straighten them out and you simply let them be.

You had a penchant for black pinstripe suits. However, the professional sterness was mitigated by the presence of a star-shaped pink diamond brooch pinned to the striped bow on your chest area. Moon found it conveniently suitable for your “fairy godparent“ aesthetic. The diamond would catch even the faintest amounts of light, reflecting it on surrounding walls to signify that you were approaching. You were wondrous, gentle hues of pink always heralding your arrival.

Sun spoke to him as the two of them made their way to the conference room, distracting him from his reveries:

“They are so cold to us and yet so warm to them. Did you see that smile?“

“Our fairy sees value in miscreants and mongrels. It is only a matter of time before those strays bite the hand that feeds them and then the little fool will come crying to us.“

“It would be cruel of us to refuse them a warm embrace, brother.“

Moon pondered the thought, the potential image of you in a disheveled state, disappointed and heartbroken. There was something wonderfully poetic about the idea of your rose garden withering away. It was a fair trade for all the times you kept trying to ruin their own view of the world. He and Sun were the righteous hands of justice and not even you could protect your little army of demons forever, shielding them with your dark angel wings till one day their final feather crumbles to dust. A misguided fallen little seraph had to have limits.

Sun and Moon waited for good while for you to arrive. Getting coffee was serious business, after all.

The windows in the conference room were covered with Venetian blinds, creating a game of light and shadow, giving it an air of mystery and melancholy. However, the moment you entered, your diamond brooch cast little sparkles of warm pink all over the walls.

You were carrying the bags with gifts and also balancing your coffee cup. It was honestly a miracle you did not spill everything yet. You set it all on the large table and for a moment you almost seemed to have forgotten the two animatronics even existed as you were fiddling with the little treats you had received.

“These chocolates are my favourite. It is a shame you two can't eat, you are missing pure heaven. Now, what exactly did you two want to talk about?“

Sun was very straightforward and went right down to business.

“You cheated, lied and manipulated facts today.“

“Me? I can only aspire to be that productive in one single afternoon.“

“Furthermore, you shamelessly tried to avoid the consequences of losing our little bet.“

“Tell me something: are you more upset about the case or the bet? It seems to me as if the latter is tormenting you more than the former.“

“I am not answering that.“

“If you wanted a date, all you had to do was ask like a sensible man, we don't need these convoluted schemes for something that simple.“

“Would you, then?“

“No.“

“See, this is why we need the schemes.“

“Such a tragedy your problems are, Sun.“

You opened another box of chocolates and you were wondering whether to try the one with dark ganache filling or the one with hazelnut cream. You were rudely interrupted when Moon lifted your chin up to look at him.

“You are no longer going to prance around acting as if the justice system is your own personal circus. If we expose what you did today, you will be kicked out of the Lawyers' Association and you will lose your license to practice.“

“That sounds so depressing when you put it that way.“

“I personally can appreciate what you were trying to do for all those people in the past year or so, but enough is enough. We could have offered you a plea bargain, had you only asked us. We are more than happy to settle if those puppies of yours mean that much to you, but they will need to serve time, whether you like it or not.“

“When they get in the system, it's over, it will haunt them and follow them for the rest of their lives, from getting employment all the way to daily life and relationships.“

“None of that is your concern, Y/N. You cannot save everyone.“

“With all due respect, Moon, you have no right to tell me what to do. I do not hate you, but I will not tolerate you being in my way either. Do not be fooled by my kind nature, you have no idea who you are playing with. Dreams can become Nightmares fairly quickly.“

“I am saying all of this because I do not want you to share the same unfortunate fate that keeps repeating itself in your family. Always best friends with the wrong lot. You need to stop fraternizing with criminals, for your own good.“

Moon expected a specific reaction from you with that statement, foolishly assuming that he would hit the right spot, that he would cause fear, pain, uncertainty and a need to run somewhere for some emotional safety. Even Sun knew that he had gone too far with that topic.

You were not having it. Yes, you were a regal and delicate flower. However, that flower was also poisonous and with plenty of thorns. You huffed at him.

“Oh, so we are playing that card now? While we are on the subject of family tradition and dubious practices, I am well aware of the person that gets rid of the truly bad people. Did he ever come for any of my current and recent clients? No. Therefore I don't see why you are so determined to lecture me about helping those that only do crime out of necessity, not evil. If anything, this is just petty revenge because you hate losing and because you are a manipulative jerk with no empathy for the misfortunate, Moon. If you wish to punish someone, start with yourself.“

That certainly did hit a nerve.

Moon went over to the window, pulling the blinds shut and letting the room bathe in darkness, the pink light disappearing. You blinked to adjust your eyes.

“Is this really necessary?

Moon's voice was unusually low, almost a whisper:

"Is darkness not a familiar thing to you, little devil fairy? You certainly seem to linger in the shadows, refusing to see the light, you are blind and unable to grasp reality as it is."

You sighed and shrugged.

"That is still better than believing in blind justice. Also, at least I got the comfort of knowing that Sun over here cannot see anything right now, either.“

The daylight animatronic made a huff at your words.

“I still know the basic layout of the room, thank you very much.“

Sun then leaned over to you and whispered:

“Now, why did you have to tell him all that? He is very touchy on that subject.“

“Well, he started it.“

“And you had to continue it?“

“Yes. I too am allowed to be petty.“

Moon's crimson optics were the only light left and they were getting closer, wicked and menacing. Their glow suddenly disappeared and all that was heard was Moon's malicious cackling. Even with Sun present, you knew you were pretty much screwed and that it was best if you made your merry way in the opposite direction.

An interesting chain of events followed that led to even more interesting consequences. You reached for the nearby bag that had the giant bunny plushie in it, throwing it in the general direction of Moon's laughter, hoping that it would hit him and buy you enough time to run out of the room. However, you miscalculated while waving your hand, accidentally hitting Sun in the face instead. In your defense, you could barely see a damn thing in the dark.

As this happened, Sun stepped backwards out of sheer instinct, bumping right into Moon as he was trying to elegantly sneak up. This caused Moon to lose balance and fall on the floor. As he tried to catch onto the table to pull himself back up, his hand landed directly on the coffee cup and the whole contents spilled over the edge right onto him, ruining his coat, vest and shirt.

Needless to say how much noise you three idiots had made in the process.

You reached for another bag, and you began to swing it around without a care in the world.

“Stay back, both of you, I am armed with plushies and I am not afraid to use them.“

Sun's face kept being caught in the collateral damage, of course. With a swift motion, he managed to catch you and pick you up, placing you on the table and pinning your wrists to it to stop you from further attacking him with such a deadly weapon. Meanwhile, Moon was removing his coffee-stained coat and vest, lamenting how the whole fabric was ruined now.

“This is not how I envisioned this meeting to transpire.“

The whole scene was then interrupted when a clerk opened the door, seeing the two celestial animatronics looming over you while you were lying on the table, Sun holding your wrists and Moon having half his clothes off.

The man blinked a few times, before clapping in joy.

“Oh, my god, finally. I have been placing my bets on the three of you for months. I have to tell the others that they owe me money. They said you three would get together by December, but I was a visionary and I said somewhere in Fall. Ah, passion! Such a fantastic thing. Have fun, you crazy lovebirds, you! I'll tell the group of people that is standing right outside not to disturb you for the next few hours, okay? Okay, take care.“

He closed the door and left, leaving the room in darkness again. A few moments passed and you burst out laughing, unable to control yourself. The situation was absurd and you were starting to love every minute of it.

“I must say, this madness is better than some boring date. We should do it again sometime.“

AO3 Link

[zee-man-chatter]

https://nationalpost.com/opinion/britain-has-succumbed-to-the-the-tyranny-of-the-minority

Allister Heath: Britain has succumbed to the tyranny of the minority

The U.K. is now an elite dictatorship where majority opinions are crushed

Allister Heath,  The Telegraph

LONDON — Britain’s deranged war on cars, our looming ban on gas boilers, the debanking scandal, the failure to prosecute crime, the attempted cancellation of women, the sabotage of the Brexit agenda, the scale of migration: welcome to anti-democratic Britain, where the beleaguered majority is increasingly subject to the whims of an entitled, activist elite that often seems to despise the people over which it exercises so much power.

All the policies listed above share a devastating commonality: they are deeply unpopular, and would be crushed in a referendum after a fair campaign, were the politicians courageous enough to grant the public a say (in the case of Brexit, they did, of course, and continue to this day to resist implementing the revolutionary change implied by the vote).

In a truly majoritarian society, one where the demos actually exercised kratos, no form of crime would be tolerated, and certainly not burglaries or muggings. Nobody would dare to indoctrinate school children with extreme trans ideology, and the green agenda would be centred around urgent technological innovation rather than seeking to prevent working people from flying to holidays in the sun.

Yet we live in a very different political reality, one in which public opinion is flagrantly disregarded whenever it doesn’t align with the views of the ruling class. Westminster has become cartelized: the large parties are committed to an unrealistic dash to net zero, refuse to discuss the gargantuan cost involved and omit to mention that Britain’s carbon emissions are about three per cent of China’s. On the great subjects of our time — family policy, the size of the state, the NHS and even planning rules — there is little difference between Tory, Labour and Lib Dem MPs, disenfranchising millions.

The intellectual conformity is stultifying, and has been reinforced by the emergence of an all-powerful Blob, the nexus of mandarins, policy advisers, quangocrats and other government agents, a class of “public servants” who don’t really like the public and are increasingly convinced that they have a constitutional duty to constrain and contain elected politicians. They are experts at delay, prevarication and lawfare, and are cheered on by the left-wing activists who have taken over the legal profession, our cultural institutions, academia, charities and even many big companies.

Thus even in the rare instances when the Tories attempt to think the unthinkable and respond to public opinion, as with the Channel crossings, the system does its best to block any change, empowered by quasi-constitutional legislation such as the Equality Act, the Climate Change Act and our membership of the ECHR.

The upshot is an extraordinary disempowerment of the electorate: is it any wonder that some voters fear we risk becoming a democracy in name only? Take the absurd war on cars: a tiny minority of activists, council planners, devolved administrations and ministers are seeking to discourage the mode of transport that the vast majority of the population relies on. Or consider immigration, which is a lot higher than the public would like: all potential solutions to reduce numbers while preserving the economy are lambasted as gimmicks, meaningless or self-evidently stupid. The Tories have promised to cut numbers in every single one of their manifestos since at least the 1990s, and yet aren’t even pretending to try any longer. How does this not disastrously undermine trust in politicians?

Until recently, all parts of British society bought into the democratic ethos developed after the great voting reforms of the 19th and 20th century, or at least paid lip service to it. It was deemed snobbish to dismiss the views of ordinary voters out of hand, and borderline insane to seek to reverse the expansion of the consumer society.

That consensus, already left fragile by the Blairite legal revolution and his massive increase in the number of university graduates, was finally shattered after the 2016 Brexit referendum. Most of our institutions are now controlled by a pseudo-meritocratic elite convinced that only it can prevent the masses from reverting to ignorance, racism and prejudice.

Our new ruling class is paternalistic, messianic even: in a post-religious age, it has taken on the role of priest and saviour of the common people. It still occasionally feels the need to legitimize unpopular ideas by pretending that they garner majority support, hence all the polls “proving” that people support net zero. Yet when asked to pay the price in terms of actual cash or drastically reduced convenience, the public immediately rebels.

There was a time when we worried, rightly, that the tyranny of the majority was the main threat to freedom and prosperity; today, it is the tyranny of the minority that poses the greatest danger. Our new task is to prevent the majority from being oppressed: how do we stop the capture of every institution by the radical left? How do we make Parliament more representative, and reduce the power of the Blob? One answer would be to use a lot more referenda, as the Swiss do; another would be radical reform of the civil service, turning ministers into CEOs with proper control over mandarins.

I’m well aware that the majority can have bad or evil ideas, or vote for maniacs. We need to retain — and in some cases, further develop — protections against majoritarian abuses, even if some of the current ones are no longer fit for purpose or have been hijacked. Elites have helped drive much good social change in recent decades, including by fighting racism and prejudice against all sorts of minorities.

But the pendulum has swung too far away from majoritarian rule, and too much power handed to social engineers. Today, the problem doesn’t lie with the public, which is largely tolerant and liberal-conservative, but with the elites, who have become authoritarian and anti-democratic, captured by wokery and a dislike of material aspiration.

What we call populism, in the current British context, is really the majority trying to reassert itself. Voters are developing a new form of class consciousness; “motorists” are becoming a political force. The Ulez fiasco is acting as a gateway, normalizing opposition to other excesses.

The message to politicians is clear: start listening to the voters again, or else Britain will soon face a popular uprising orders of magnitude greater — and more unpredictable — than Brexit.

The Telegraph

[msclaritea]

Global banks defy U.S. crackdowns by serving oligarchs, criminals and terrorists - ICIJ

"money laundering crackdowns by moving staggering sums of illicit cash for shadowy characters and criminal networks that have spread chaos and undermined democracy around the world.

The records show that five global banks — JPMorgan, HSBC, Standard Chartered Bank, Deutsche Bank and Bank of New York Mellon — kept profiting from powerful and dangerous players even after U.S. authorities fined these financial institutions for earlier failures to stem flows of dirty money.

U.S. agencies responsible for enforcing money laundering laws rarely prosecute megabanks that break the law, and the actions authorities do take barely ripple the flood of plundered money that washes through the international financial system.

In some cases the banks kept moving illicit funds even after U.S. officials warned them they’d face criminal prosecutions if they didn’t stop doing business with mobsters, fraudsters or corrupt regimes.

JPMorgan, the largest bank based in the United States, moved money for people and companies tied to the massive looting of public funds in Malaysia, Venezuela and Ukraine, the leaked documents reveal.

The bank moved more than $1 billion for the fugitive financier behind Malaysia’s 1MDB scandal, the records show, and more than $2 million for a young energy mogul’s company that has been accused of cheating Venezuela’s government and helping cause electrical blackouts that crippled large parts of the country.

JPMorgan also processed more than $50 million in payments over a decade, the records show, for Paul Manafort, the former campaign manager for President Donald Trump. The bank shuttled at least $6.9 million in Manafort transactions in the 14 months after he resigned from the campaign amid a swirl of money laundering and corruption allegations spawning from his work with a pro-Russian political party in Ukraine.

Tainted transactions continued to surge through accounts at JPMorgan despite the bank’s promises to improve its money laundering controls as part of settlements it reached with U.S. authorities in 2011, 2013 and 2014.

In response to questions for this story, JPMorgan said it was legally prohibited from discussing clients or transactions. It said it has taken a “leadership role” in pursuing “proactive intelligence-led investigations” and developing “innovative techniques to help combat financial crime.”

HSBC, Standard Chartered Bank, Deutsche Bank and Bank of New York Mellon also continued to wave through suspect payments despite similar promises to government authorities, the secret documents show.

The leaked documents, known as the FinCEN Files, include more than 2,100 suspicious activity reports filed by banks and other financial firms with the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network. The agency, known in shorthand as FinCEN, is an intelligence unit at the heart of the global system to fight money laundering.

BuzzFeed News obtained the records and shared them with the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists. ICIJ organized a team of more than 400 journalists from 110 news organizations in 88 countries to investigate the world of banks and money laundering.

In all, an ICIJ analysis found, the documents identify more than $2 trillion in transactions between 1999 and 2017 that were flagged by financial institutions’ internal compliance officers as possible money laundering or other criminal activity — including $514 billion at JPMorgan and $1.3 trillion at Deutsche Bank.

Suspicious activity reports reflect the concerns of watchdogs within banks and are not necessarily evidence of criminal conduct or other wrongdoing.

Financial institutions have abandoned their roles as front-line defenses against money laundering.

– Paul Pelletier

Though a vast amount, the $2 trillion in suspicious transactions identified within this set of documents is just a drop in a far larger flood of dirty money gushing through banks around the world. The FinCEN Files represent less than 0.02% of the more than 12 million suspicious activity reports that financial institutions filed with FinCEN between 2011 and 2017.

FinCEN and its parent, the Treasury Department, did not answer a series of questions sent last month by ICIJ and its partners. FinCEN told BuzzFeed News that it does not comment on the “existence or non-existence” of specific suspicious activity reports, sometimes known as SARs. Days before the release of the investigation by ICIJ and its partners, FinCEN announced that it was seeking public comments on ways to improve the U.S.’s anti-money laundering system.

The cache of suspicious activity reports — along with hundreds of spreadsheets filled with names, dates and figures — flag bank clients in more than 170 countries and territories who were identified as being involved in potentially illicit transactions.

Along with sifting through the FinCEN Files, ICIJ and its media partners obtained more than 17,600 other records from insiders and whistleblowers, court files, freedom-of-information requests and other sources. The team interviewed hundreds of people, including financial crime experts, law enforcement officials and crime victims.

According to BuzzFeed News, some of the secret records were requested as part of U.S. congressional investigations into Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election. Others were gathered by FinCEN following requests from law enforcement agencies, BuzzFeed said..."

The above graph on the article page is interactive. Republicans AND Progressives are currently attempting to blame the bank meltdowns on Biden and the FED. They all knew the banks have been under investigation for various activities since 2020. FinCen is the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network.

[shekhawatlaw]

Best Patent Law Firms In India by Shekhawat Law

A patent is an exclusive right granted for an invention, which is a product or a process that provides, in general, a new way of doing something or offers a new technical solution to a problem. To get a patent, technical information about the invention must be disclosed to the public in a patent application in India.

History Of Patent Law In India

The history of Patent law in India starts from 1911 when the Indian Patents and Designs Act, 1911 was enacted.

The Patents Act, of 1970 is the legislation that to date governs patents in India. It first came into force in 1972.

The Office of the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trademarks or CGPDTM is the body responsible for the Indian Patent Act.

The Patent Office has its headquarters in Calcutta and has branches in New Delhi, Chennai, and Mumbai. The office of the CGPDTM is based in Mumbai. Nagpur hosts the office of the Patent Information System and also the National Institute for Intellectual Property Management.

The Controller General supervises the Act’s administration and also offers advice to the government on related matters.

The Patents Act was repeatedly amended in 1999, 2002, 2005, and 2006 respectively. These amendments were required to make the Patents Act TRIPS compliant. TRIPS stands for Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights.

The major amendment in the Patent Act was in 2005 when product patents were extended to all fields of technology like food, drugs, chemicals, and microorganisms. The Rules under the Patent Act were also amended in 2012, 2013, and 2014.

Unpacking the Role of Patent Law Firms

Patent law firms play a crucial role in the patent lifecycle, from conception to grant and beyond. Their core services can be broadly categorized into:

Patent drafting and prosecution: This involves crafting a watertight patent application that clearly defines your invention and fulfills all legal requirements. The firm will then liaise with the Indian Patent Office, handling communication, responding to objections, and ultimately guiding your application through the granting process.

Patent infringement analysis and litigation: Should your patent be infringed upon, the firm will assess the situation, advising you on the best course of action. This may involve initiating litigation, negotiating settlements, or even pursuing post-grant proceedings to defend your patent rights.

Patent portfolio management: A comprehensive patent strategy goes beyond securing a single patent. Firms can help you develop a robust portfolio, analyze existing patents, identify white spaces in the market, and plan for future inventions.

Licensing and technology transfer: If you wish to monetize your invention, the firm can assist in drafting licensing agreements, identifying potential licensees, and negotiating terms that maximize your profit and protect your IP.

Also, Read Our Related Blogs on What Intellectual Property Law 

Investing in Protection

Engaging a patent law firm is an investment in your invention's future. Their expertise can be the difference between securing valuable patent rights and seeing your hard work go unprotected. With the right guidance, you can navigate the intricate world of patent law and unlock the full potential of your innovation.

Further Exploration

This blog is merely a stepping stone. To delve deeper, consider exploring online resources like the website of the Controller General of Patents & Designs, professional associations like the Institute of Patent Attorneys of India, and online directories that list patent law firms based on their expertise and location.

Remember, protecting your invention is vital for long-term success. By understanding the role of the Best Patent law Firms in India and carefully choosing the right one, you can chart a course to securing your intellectual property and turning your ideas into tangible rewards.

This blog offers a comprehensive overview of patent law firms in India for educational purposes. It explores their roles, services, and considerations for choosing the right firm, and encourages further exploration of resources. Feel free to adapt and expand on this information to cater to your specific needs and audience. Remember, clarity, accuracy, and engaging language are key to creating an informative and valuable resource for anyone navigating the world of patent law in India.

[traffickinginstitute]

Report on Human Trafficking

Human trafficking, a grave violation of human rights, continues to plague societies globally. It involves the illegal trade of individuals for exploitation, including forced labor, sexual exploitation, and involuntary servitude. Despite concerted efforts by governments, non-profits, and international organizations, human trafficking remains a significant and complex issue.

The magnitude of human trafficking is staggering. According to recent Report On Human Trafficking, an estimated 24.9 million people worldwide are victims of forced labor, with 4.8 million in forced sexual exploitation. Traffickers often prey on vulnerable populations, including migrants, refugees, and impoverished individuals, using coercion, deception, and violence to maintain control over their victims.

The economic impact of human trafficking is profound. Victims often endure physical and psychological abuse, leading to long-term health problems and significant societal costs. Additionally, trafficking undermines legitimate labor markets and perpetuates cycles of poverty and inequality. The illicit profits generated by traffickers, estimated at $150 billion annually, further entrench organized crime and corruption.

Efforts to combat Human Trafficking Report are multifaceted, involving prevention, protection, prosecution, and partnership. Governments worldwide have implemented stringent laws and policies to address trafficking, such as the U.S. Trafficking Victims Protection Act and the Palermo Protocol. These frameworks provide the legal basis for prosecuting traffickers and protecting victims.

Prevention strategies focus on raising awareness and reducing vulnerabilities. Educational campaigns, community outreach, and economic empowerment initiatives aim to inform potential victims and reduce the factors that make individuals susceptible to trafficking. Collaboration with technology companies has also led to innovative solutions, such as data analytics and online monitoring tools, to detect and disrupt trafficking networks.

Protection measures prioritize the safety and rehabilitation of victims. Shelters, medical care, legal assistance, and psychological support are essential components of victim services. Governments and non-profits work together to ensure victims receive comprehensive care and support to rebuild their lives.

Prosecution efforts target traffickers through stringent law enforcement and judicial measures. Specialized training for law enforcement, enhanced investigative techniques, and international cooperation are critical to dismantling trafficking networks and bringing perpetrators to justice.

The Human Trafficking Institute plays a pivotal role in this global fight. By providing training, resources, and expertise to law enforcement and prosecutors, the Institute enhances the capacity to investigate and prosecute trafficking cases. Their research and data collection efforts also contribute to a better understanding of trafficking trends and inform policy decisions.

 

Human trafficking is a complex and pervasive issue that requires a concerted global response. Through the combined efforts of governments, non-profits, and organizations like the Human Trafficking Institute, significant strides are being made to combat this heinous crime. Continued collaboration, innovation, and commitment are essential to ultimately eradicate human trafficking and protect the rights and dignity of all individuals.

[blockchainforensics]

The Rise of Blockchain Forensics and Its Implications for Law Enforcement

The ascent of blockchain forensics marks a pivotal moment in the realm of law enforcement, ushering in new possibilities for combating cybercrimes in the digital age. As blockchain technology permeates various sectors, so too does the need for innovative forensic techniques to navigate the complexities of decentralized digital ecosystems. In this article, we explore the burgeoning field of blockchain forensics and its profound implications for law enforcement agencies worldwide.

Introduction

Blockchain technology has emerged as a disruptive force, revolutionizing the way we conduct digital transactions and store data. However, with innovation comes new challenges, and the rise of blockchain-based crimes presents a formidable obstacle for law enforcement agencies. In response to this evolving threat landscape, the advent of blockchain forensics offers a ray of hope, providing law enforcement with the tools and techniques needed to investigate and prosecute cybercriminals.

Understanding Blockchain Technology

At its core, blockchain technology is a decentralized ledger system that records transactions across a network of computers. Each transaction is encrypted and stored in a block, which is linked to the previous block, creating a chain of immutable records. This transparent and tamper-resistant system revolutionizes trust in digital transactions, offering a secure and transparent platform for conducting financial transactions.

The Significance of Blockchain Forensics

Blockchain forensics plays a pivotal role in the field of law enforcement by:

Enhancing Investigations: Blockchain forensics enables law enforcement agencies to trace the flow of digital assets, identify suspicious activities, and gather evidence for prosecution.

Improving Prosecution: By leveraging blockchain forensics, prosecutors can build strong cases against cybercriminals, leading to more successful prosecutions and convictions.

Promoting Digital Accountability: Blockchain forensics promotes accountability and integrity in digital transactions, deterring cybercriminals and safeguarding the integrity of digital ecosystems.

Challenges in Traditional Forensic Techniques

Traditional forensic techniques often struggle to keep pace with the dynamic nature of blockchain-based crimes. Centralized data repositories are vulnerable to hacking and manipulation, while the anonymity of cryptocurrencies makes it challenging to trace the origin and destination of digital assets. Moreover, the global and decentralized nature of blockchain transactions presents a formidable challenge for investigators, requiring sophisticated tools and techniques to uncover illicit activities.

The Emergence of Blockchain Forensics

Blockchain forensics involves the systematic analysis of blockchain transactions to uncover patterns, anomalies, and suspicious activities. By leveraging advanced data analytics and cryptographic techniques, forensic experts can trace digital footprints, identify fraudulent transactions, and build a comprehensive case against cybercriminals.

Key Components of Blockchain Forensics

Transaction Tracing: Forensic analysts trace the flow of digital assets through the blockchain, identifying the origin and destination of funds.

Address Attribution: By analyzing blockchain addresses and transaction patterns, investigators can attribute specific activities to individuals or entities.

Pattern Recognition: Blockchain data analysis enables experts to detect patterns indicative of fraudulent or criminal behavior, aiding in the identification and prosecution of offenders.

Real-Life Applications

Blockchain forensics has real-world applications in:

Financial Fraud Detection: Law enforcement agencies use blockchain forensics to detect and prevent fraudulent transactions, safeguarding financial institutions and consumers.

Cybercrime Investigations: Blockchain forensics is instrumental in investigating a wide range of cybercrimes, including money laundering, ransomware attacks, and dark web transactions.

Challenges and Ethical Considerations

Despite its potential, blockchain forensics poses several challenges and ethical considerations, including:

Privacy Concerns: The use of blockchain forensics for surveillance purposes raises concerns about individual privacy and civil liberties.

Technological Limitations: Blockchain forensics tools and techniques are still evolving, and there are limitations in terms of scalability, interoperability, and accuracy.

The Future of Blockchain Forensics

The future of blockchain forensics lies in:

Technological Advancements: Advances in data analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence will enhance the capabilities of blockchain forensics.

Regulatory Frameworks: Regulatory frameworks and international cooperation agreements will shape the responsible use of blockchain forensics and safeguard against abuse.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the rise of blockchain forensics represents a paradigm shift in the field of law enforcement, offering unprecedented capabilities in investigating and prosecuting cybercrimes. By embracing this innovative technology, law enforcement agencies can stay ahead of the curve and effectively combat the growing threat posed by blockchain-based crimes.

[howtobreakvpn]

is vpn legal in kenya

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is vpn legal in kenya

VPN regulations Kenya

In Kenya, VPN (Virtual Private Network) regulations have been a subject of discussion and scrutiny in recent years. As internet usage continues to grow across the country, so does the importance of protecting online privacy and security. VPNs offer a way for individuals and businesses to encrypt their internet connections, ensuring that sensitive data remains safe from prying eyes.

However, the Kenyan government has taken steps to regulate the use of VPNs, particularly in the context of national security and online content control. In 2018, the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) issued a directive requiring all telecommunication companies to block virtual private networks that were not licensed by the government. This move was aimed at curbing the spread of illegal content and preventing cybercrime.

Despite these regulations, many Kenyan internet users continue to rely on VPNs to access restricted websites and bypass government censorship. VPN providers often employ sophisticated technologies to evade detection and maintain access to their services. Additionally, some businesses use VPNs to securely connect remote workers and protect sensitive company data from cyber threats.

While the Kenyan government acknowledges the importance of cybersecurity, there is ongoing debate about the balance between security measures and individual freedoms. Critics argue that excessive VPN regulation could stifle innovation and economic growth by limiting access to global information and services. On the other hand, proponents of regulation believe it is necessary to combat cyber threats and maintain social order.

As the use of VPNs becomes more prevalent in Kenya, it is likely that the government will continue to refine its regulatory approach to strike a balance between security and privacy concerns. In the meantime, internet users and businesses alike must stay informed about the evolving legal landscape surrounding VPN usage in the country.

Cybersecurity laws Kenya

Cybersecurity laws in Kenya are crucial in safeguarding the country's digital landscape. With the increasing reliance on technology, protecting sensitive information and digital infrastructure is paramount. The Kenyan government has implemented several laws and regulations aimed at enhancing cybersecurity and combating cyber threats.

One of the key legislations addressing cybersecurity in Kenya is the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act of 2018. This comprehensive law criminalizes various cyber activities such as unauthorized access to computer systems, cyber espionage, identity theft, and cyber terrorism. It also provides mechanisms for investigation, prosecution, and punishment of cyber offenders.

Additionally, the Data Protection Act of 2019 plays a significant role in cybersecurity by regulating the processing of personal data and ensuring privacy rights are upheld. This law establishes standards for the collection, storage, and use of personal information, thereby reducing the risk of data breaches and cyber attacks.

Furthermore, Kenya has established institutions such as the National Computer Incident Response Team Coordination Centre (National KE-CIRT/CC) to coordinate cybersecurity efforts across government agencies and the private sector. These initiatives aim to enhance incident response capabilities and promote information sharing among stakeholders.

However, challenges remain in effectively enforcing cybersecurity laws in Kenya. Limited awareness, inadequate resources, and evolving cyber threats pose ongoing challenges to cybersecurity efforts. Therefore, continuous collaboration between the government, private sector, and civil society is essential to address these challenges and ensure a secure digital environment for all Kenyan citizens and organizations.

Internet privacy guidelines Kenya

Internet privacy guidelines in Kenya are essential for safeguarding users' personal information and data security in the digital age. The country recognizes the importance of privacy protection online and has implemented regulations to ensure that individuals' data is handled responsibly by businesses and service providers.

One of the key laws that govern internet privacy in Kenya is the Data Protection Act (DPA) of 2019. This legislation outlines the rights of individuals regarding their personal data and establishes obligations for organizations that collect and process such information. The DPA requires businesses to obtain consent before collecting personal data and mandates the secure handling and storage of this data to prevent unauthorized access or disclosure.

In addition to the DPA, the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) plays a crucial role in enforcing internet privacy guidelines. The CA regulates the telecommunications industry in Kenya and ensures that internet service providers comply with data protection laws. The authority works to create a safe online environment for users by monitoring compliance with privacy regulations and taking action against entities that violate these rules.

Kenyan internet users can also protect their privacy by being vigilant about the websites they visit and the information they share online. It is essential to use strong, unique passwords for accounts and to avoid clicking on suspicious links or sharing sensitive information with unverified sources.

By following internet privacy guidelines in Kenya and staying informed about data protection laws, individuals can enjoy a secure online experience and mitigate the risks of data breaches and privacy violations. Compliance with these regulations is crucial for fostering trust in the digital ecosystem and safeguarding users' personal information.

Data protection Kenya

Data protection in Kenya is a critical topic that affects individuals, businesses, and organizations across the country. With the increasing use of digital platforms and technology, the need to safeguard personal and sensitive information has become more important than ever. The Data Protection Act, which came into effect in 2019, set out to regulate the gathering, processing, storage, and sharing of personal data in Kenya.

Under this Act, individuals are granted certain rights concerning how their personal data is handled. These rights include the right to access their personal information, the right to request corrections to inaccurate data, and the right to be informed about how their data is being used. Additionally, organizations are required to obtain consent before collecting any personal data and must ensure that appropriate security measures are in place to protect this information.

Non-compliance with the Data Protection Act can result in severe penalties, including fines and legal action. It is essential for businesses and organizations operating in Kenya to familiarize themselves with the regulations outlined in the Act and take the necessary steps to ensure compliance. This includes implementing data protection policies, providing staff training on data security best practices, and conducting regular audits to assess data handling practices.

By prioritizing data protection measures, individuals can have greater confidence in sharing their information, while businesses can build trust with their customers and avoid potential legal consequences. Ultimately, data protection in Kenya plays a crucial role in safeguarding privacy rights and promoting a secure digital environment for all.

Online anonymity legality Kenya

Online anonymity in Kenya is a topic that brings various legal considerations into play. The country's legal framework does not explicitly address the issue of online anonymity, leaving room for interpretation and raising questions about its legality.

As in many countries, Kenyan citizens value their privacy and may choose to remain anonymous when engaging in online activities. Being anonymous can provide a sense of security and freedom to express opinions without fear of repercussions. However, this anonymity can also be misused for fraudulent activities or to spread harmful content.

From a legal standpoint, there are laws in Kenya that touch on aspects of online anonymity. The Constitution of Kenya guarantees the right to privacy, which can be interpreted to include the right to remain anonymous online. Additionally, the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act of 2018 criminalizes activities such as unauthorized access to computer systems, cyber espionage, and computer forgery, which could potentially impact online anonymity.

It is important for Kenyan internet users to be aware of the legal implications of online anonymity and to use this privilege responsibly. While staying anonymous online is not explicitly illegal in Kenya, individuals must understand the boundaries and consequences of their actions to avoid legal issues.

In conclusion, online anonymity in Kenya exists in a legal gray area, with limited specific regulations governing its use. Internet users should exercise caution and discretion when choosing to remain anonymous online to stay within the bounds of the law and promote a safe and respectful online environment.

[lakshmihr1208]

How Lighting is Important to transfigure Any Space in Interior Design

Lighting plays a significant element in interior design. It can be incorporated in different ways. When professionals combine these rudiments to achieve the proper lighting, they can elevate any space into a relatively effective combination of style and functionality. WeDezine is a leading company that offers Interior Design Services in Bangalore where professional contrivers completely understand how vital lighting is in interior design. They know innovative ways and where to integrate light institutions to make a stunning terrain.

Lighting has the power to transfigure a room by enhancing colours, creating air, and textures, and pressing architectural features. Understanding the impact of lighting on a space can help homeowners and contrivers produce an inviting and functional atmosphere in any room. moment, we ’ll explore why light matters, the right light institutions and how can help transfigure your space.

The significance of Lighting in Interior Design Effective Lighting can transfigure any Space The right lighting can make a room feel welcoming and commodious, while poor lighting can produce a teary and confined atmosphere. When designing your space, you should always consider the right lighting institutions. It needs careful prosecution to insure that the light sources, light institutions and light situations round the room’s purpose and design style. thus, it’s important to understand the part of lighting in interior design.

Creating the perfect atmosphere incorporating proper lighting strategies can heavily affect numerous factors. Professional contrivers like WeDezine, a popular Home Interior Design Bangalore know the proper way to give such a cosy terrain by using the power of lighting to transfigure working spaces into inspiring innards. From the accoutrements used and the choice of cabinetwork to the colour schemes, everything has to be impeccably harmonised and balanced to produce the right effect.

Lighting can Affect our Mood and Behaviour Lighting has the power to affect our moods and geste . Bright, cool- toned lighting can increase your attention, while dimmer, warmer lighting can induce calmness and relaxation. Lighting can produce different moods in different spaces, for case energising a study room or a cosy living room.

Make a Small Room Look Larger Both artificial and natural lighting can change the look of a room. Brighter spaces with proper light look larger and feel more commodious. Darker spaces with little to no illumination looksmaller.However, strategic lighting can significantly produce the vision of further space, If you have limited natural light.

Highlight Texture and Pattern When it comes to texture and pattern, lighting can showcase them and make them stand out. Accent lights can be directed to produce shadow play, punctuate a point wall, or draw attention to a unique texture or pattern in a fabric.

Change the Entire Functionality One of the most important places of lighting in interior design is functionality. The sole ideal of integrating light in any interior setting is to serve a purpose. As a distinguished Living Room Interior Design Bangalore, WeDezine’s expert contrivers know the perpetration of proper lighting that can change the entire functionality of a room. Take the functionality of the space you ’re trying to illuminate into consideration.

Enhancing Color Schemes with Lighting Lighting can greatly enhance a room’s colour scheme. Cool lights can bring out the green and blue tones in a space, while warm- toned lighting can bring out the oranges, yellows and reds. It’s also vital to consider the light temperature and the type of bulb when choosing lighting to enhance the colour scheme.

Creating Depth and Dimension Light can produce depth and dimension in space by pressing certain areas or adding shadow to others. For illustration, directional lighting can help to produce a sense of drama and depth in a room, pressing texture and shape in an artwork.

Showcasing Artwork and Décor Proper lighting can act as an art form itself, drawing attention to your favourite artwork and décor pieces. punctuate the beauty of puppets, art, oils and other ornamental rudiments with focused track lighting or limelight. By doing this, you can produce a stunning display that adds character and personality to your living spaces.

Summary The strategic use of lighting is a important tool in the hands of an interior developer. It serves practical purposes and contributes significantly to a space’s aesthetic and emotional experience. WeDezine, a prominent bravery Interior Design in Bangalore understands the wisdom behind lighting and its impact on colour, texture and mood. Being a famed Home Interior Design Bangalore, our largely educated contrivers can courteously execute lighting that can take a room from ordinary to spectacular, making it a name space in your home. By using their creativity, and chops, our contrivers use lighting to produce inviting, relaxed and productive interior atmospheres that depict the imperative mood of space.

Whether it’s the living or working terrain our contrivers can incorporate different kinds of styles of lighting, as well as rudiments, to produce optical and visual visions to change the entire mood or shape of the space. By understanding the significance of lighting and its colorful executions, you can illuminate your home in a way that reflects your unique style and enhances your living experience.

[crimechannels]

By • Olalekan Fagbade We have identified Terrorist financiers – FG makes revelations The Federal Government has disclosed that it has seized over N45 billion that was illegally looted from the national treasury. It further disclosed that a number of individuals and entities linked to terrorist activities have been identified and designated, with funds traced to them also confiscated. The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, made the disclosure in his opening address at the 40th Technical Commission/Plenary Meeting of the Inter-Governmental Action Group Against Money Laundering in West Africa, GIABA, held at the State House, Abuja. GIABA is a specialised institution of the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, responsible for facilitating the adoption and implementation of Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter Financing of Terrorism (CFT) strategies in West Africa. In his presentation, the AGF, who spoke on behalf of Nigeria, said the President Bola Tinubu-led government was determined to build on successes that were recorded by past administrations in the country, especially in areas of investigation and prosecution of corruption cases. He said: “In 2022, we increased the budgets for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Independent Corrupt Practices Commission and National Drug Law Enforcement Agency by almost 95%. “We now have over 1,500 officers dedicated to investigating and prosecuting money laundering across these three agencies alone. “These sustained investment has seen increased numbers of investigations, prosecutions and convictions consistently since 2021 with 5,118 investigations, 1,509 prosecutions and almost 500 convictions secured resulting in over 45 billion naira of illicit proceeds seized. “We have also made progress in tackling the financing of terrorism and in particular, I am pleased that we have identified and designated a number of individuals and entities linked to terrorist activity and seized funds linked to them. “The Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), has become a global model and achieved the outcomes envisaged by the passage of its enabling legislation in 2018 which established it as an independent, autonomous unit. “The Unit has significantly expanded the scope of financial intelligence it has access to and provides to other competent authorities. “The Unit has also put in place a number of innovative technologies including the Crime Records Information Management System (CRIMS) which has transformed our approach to intelligence sharing. “The measures I have outlined and our future ambitions are underpinned by a rigorous analysis of the money laundering, terrorist financing and proliferation financing risks we face as a country,” the AGF stated. Stressing that there are myriad of challenges facing the West African sub-region, ranging from the threats of illicit financial flow to the existential dangers posed by terrorist groups, the AGF, said there was greater need for enhanced international collaborations. “As global risks become more complex, and technology more embedded as well as borders increasingly fragile, we must move towards a more tailored approach to responding to this new ML/TF/PF environment. “I believe that without a truly equitable and effective system for international cooperation, we are fighting the enemy with one hand tied behind our backs. “I therefore urge GIABA to effectively pursue this mandate on behalf of our member states,” he added. Meanwhile, in his opening remarks, the Director General of GIABA, Mr. Edwin Harris Jr., said the organisation would continue to offer technical support to Nigeria. However, the GIABA boss said there was need to restrict the physical movement of criminals and terrorist associates within the sub region. “In this regard, it becomes a more pressing need that the Secretariat works with member States in enhancing effectiveness compliance that will lead to more actions that create deterrence.

“Over the coming years going into the third round, the Secretariat will work with member States on Assets Recovery that includes all phases that is freezing, seizure, confiscation, management, and disposal with the ultimate goal of denying the criminal the use of the proceed of crimes. “I urge member States to create a mechanism that takes away profits from criminal activities. This mechanism should now form core part of our fight against Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing and other transnational crimes. “It becomes more imperative that the mandate of GIABA restricted to fighting Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing in keeping the economies of West Africa safe be visited to include other major component in keeping with emerging trends and current day realities. “I sincerely think that incorporating Asset Recovery as one of the valuable tools of deterrence in our mandate will add value to our work and serve as major deterrence to criminals whose primary aims are to contaminate our financial system for personal gains. “It is in this direction GIABA will start a critical conversation with member States and stakeholders in creating a regional sanction regime for the community that will seek to denied, block the movement of the proceed of crimes in the community and also restrict the physical movement of criminals and terrorist associates within the region. “GIABA member States implement other secondary sanctions within our financial system such as the OFAC and the EU, hence, it is now imperative that we have an ECOWAS sanction that helps curtail the movement and assist in recovery of the proceed of crimes. “GIABA will continue to work with both financial, development and technical partners to support its members,” he added. Among dignitaries at the event included the Vice-President of the Financial Action Task Force, FATF, Mr. Jeremy Weil, representative of the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Mr. Mambury Njie, as well as the Director of the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, NFIU, Mr. Tukur Modibbo.

[mylawyeradvise]

Legal jurisdiction issues and liabilities of exporters in India pertain to the complex web of regulations and responsibilities governing international trade. Exporters bear the onus of accurately classifying goods, adhering to documentation requirements, and ensuring product quality. Legal jurisdiction issues and liabilities of exporters in India relate to the complicated trap of guidelines and obligations administering global exchange. Challenges likewise emerge from changing jurisdictional translations, requiring careful expected level of investment. Exporters bear the onus of precisely grouping merchandise, sticking to documentation necessities, and guaranteeing item quality. Teaming up with lawful specialists, remaining refreshed on developing guidelines, and developing a culture of consistence are urgent in moderating liabilities and protecting successful product adventures. However, along with the potential rewards come a set of legal jurisdiction issues and liabilities that exporters need to navigate carefully to ensure compliance with international laws and regulations.

Legal Jurisdiction Issues: 1) Choice of Law: One of the primary legal jurisdiction issues for exporters is the determination of the applicable law governing their export transactions. Exporters need to clearly specify the governing law in their contracts to avoid ambiguity and ensure consistency. 2) International Trade Agreements: India is involved with different global economic deals and arrangements, like the World Trade Organization (WTO) arrangements and respective/multilateral international alliances. Exporters should know about the agreements of these arrangements, as they can influence levy rates, portions, and other exchange related matters. 3) Jurisdiction of Disputes: Exporters should carefully consider the jurisdiction where potential disputes would be resolved. International contracts often contain clauses designating a specific forum or arbitration institution for dispute resolution. The decision of ward can affect the simplicity of upholding decisions and the general expense of settling disputes. 4) Sanctions and Embargoes: Exporters must be diligent in complying with international sanctions and embargoes imposed by India or other countries. These limitations might deny exchange with explicit nations, people, or elements, and infringement of authorizations can prompt serious punishments.

Liabilities of Exporters: 1) Customs Violations: Exporters can bring about liabilities for customs infringement, including misclassification of merchandise, undervaluation, or false practices. Such violations can bring about fines, seizure of goods and ultimately leads to criminal prosecution. 2) Quality and Safety Guidelines: Traded products should meet the quality and security principles of the bringing in country. On the off chance that the merchandise neglect to conform to these norms, the exporter could confront item reviews, legitimate activities, and reputational harm. 3) Breach of Contract: Failure to fulfill contractual obligations can lead to breach of contract claims by buyers. Exporters might be at risk for harms, including loss of benefit, on the off chance that they neglect to convey labor and products as settled upon. 4) Intellectual Property Infringement: Exporters should guarantee that their items and administrations don’t encroach upon licensed innovation privileges, like licenses, brand names, and copyrights, in the objective country.. 5) Environmental Guidelines: Resistance with natural guidelines, like inappropriate removal of perilous materials, can prompt legitimate liabilities and reputational hurt for exporters.

Mitigation and Compliance: To navigate these legal jurisdiction issues and mitigate liabilities, exporters in India can take several proactive steps: 1) Contractual Clauses: Draft clear and comprehensive contracts that specify the choice of law, dispute resolution mechanisms, and other relevant terms to minimize ambiguity and potential disputes. 2) Due Diligence: Conduct thorough due diligence on potential buyers, partners, and markets to ensure compliance with international trade regulations and minimize the risk of engaging with sanctioned entities. 3) Quality Control: Implement robust quality control processes to ensure that exported goods meet the standards and requirements of the importing country. 4) Intellectual Property Protection: Acquire appropriate licenses and authorizations for protected innovation privileges and lead normal checks to prevent encroachment. 5) Training and Education: Provide training to employees and partners involved in export activities to raise awareness of legal obligations and compliance measures. 6) Consultation: Seek legal advice from experts in international trade law to ensure full understanding of legal jurisdiction issues and liabilities.

Exporting goods merchandise and items from India offers basic entryways for improvement, yet it in like manner goes with an extent of genuine region issues and liabilities that exporters ought to address. By being proactive, remaining informed about worldwide exchange guidelines, and executing powerful consistence measures, exporters can limit chances and flourish in the worldwide commercial centre while complying with legitimate norms. Authored By; Adv. Anant Sharma & Anushi Choudhary

[ailtrahq]

The US SEC has been denying Bitcoin ETFs without good reason and targeting crypto tokens, NFTs, and the celebrities around every turn. Yet, they’ve seemingly turned a blind eye to the hundreds of rug pulls that have occurred right under their noses. These scams remain prolific in crypto, while the SEC prevents safe investment guardrails via an ETF and fails to provide proper guidance for the modern era. This week, a guerrilla art exhibit from famed “American mathematical artist” and former hedge fund manager, Nelson Saiers, was set up outside of the SEC’s headquarters in lower Manhattan in protest. The Warhol of Wall Street And His Campaign Against Corruption Nelson Saiers has been referred to as the Warhol of Wall Street, and for plenty of reason. The hedge fund manager turned artist has a Ph.D. in mathematics and produced a number of one-of-a-kind pieces art pieces that include snippets of code from his former hedge fund’s algorithm. His art has been featured in galleries at Harvard University’s Leverett House and the Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary. Before becoming an artist, Saiers worked as the Managing Director of Deutsche Bank AG and held a role at UBS. Related Reading: Nelson Saiers’ Inflatable Bitcoin Rat Is Back To Take On The Fed More recent and familiar art installations have had significant meaning behind them, with Saiers making bold statements that take on corrupt American institutions such as the Federal Reserve. Within the Bitcoin community, Saiers is perhaps best known for his inflatable Bitcoin rat that was adorned with cryptographic code. In 2021 when inflation was running rampant, Saiers put $10 bills for sale for just 50 cents inside a gumball machine with a sign stating “out of order.” “The “out of order” sign raises fundamental questions about the Fed over the last several years both economically and ethically. It also relates to the Fed’s hawkish turn (Jerome Powell’s remark about retiring “transitory”, and tapering), which means it may soon be harder to get cheap cash.” Nelson Saiers’ Latest Exhibit: Selling Rug Pulls Under The SEC’s Nose Saiers was right. The days of cheap cash are essentially gone, propelling cryptocurrencies into the spotlight as an alternative to the existing, corrupt financial system. The SEC, however, appear to be doing all it can to stifle innovation, adoption, and growth in the nascent asset class. Had a Bitcoin ETF been approved years prior by the SEC, there might not have been an FTX collapse. Once again, Saiers has had enough and set out to make another statement, this time targeting the SEC. The artist chose the SEC’s headquarters in lower Manhattan, just blocks away from the Southern District Courthouse where financial crimes are prosecuted in the SEC’s own backyard. In their front yard, Saiers has set up a vendor stand offering onlookers cheap access to rug pulls. And he’s doing it right under the SEC’s nose, just like each new exotic crypto project of the week. The regulatory entity continues to selectively enforce against whatever actors it deems as the most splashy, versus those that most protect consumers from crime and fraud. Furthermore, the SEC is the sole regulator standing in the way of a spot Bitcoin ETF approval, which would offer safe and secure access to BTC for institutional and mainstream investors alike. Source

[wernher-von-brawny]

How about it?

The term “conspiracy theory” was popularized in American media by the CIA.

The current view is that they did so as a means of diminishing and discrediting folks who were asking inconvenient, probing questions about the Kennedy assassination and the government’s "official” version of events.

If you want to know what the entrenched interests back then thought about folks who asked such probing questions, ask Dorothy Kilgallen.

A conspiracy is “an agreement between two or more persons to commit a crime or accomplish a legal purpose through illegal action.“

I hate to quash anyone’s comfortable naiveté, but within the confines of civilization, conspiracies are more common than kisses. And it’s only reasonable to assume that at least one of them involves powerful interests.

Along with armies of lawyers who can transmogrify criminal charges and potential jail time into painless fines, powerful conspirators can also afford publicists to spin coverage and plant false, misleading, or just plain wacky stories in the media to confuse, distract, and deflect attention away from inconvenient truths.

It's not a pleasant thing to contemplate, but in a world where -- to cite just two still-relevant examples -- the American government condoned and regulated the enslavement of millions of humans for hundreds of years, and where the German government created actual murder factories to kill millions of humans, we must remain vigilant to the fact that greedy, crazy bastards can use -- and have used -- large institutions to prosecute evils of scope and scale beyond reason and decency.

#innovation

But even recognizing this tragic consequence of civilization, saying "Harrison Ford is irradiating our testicles with microwave satellite transmissions!" is not espousing a conspiracy theory.

Change the name to Joe Biden, and it's just more nonsense posted to Reddit by sad, young -- and Facebook by addled, old -- men in MAGA hats.

We need a standard to separate a genuine conspiracy from the gobbledygook that powerful conspirators (allegedly) use to confuse and distract.

And since a conspiracy involves criminal intent, and criminal intent -- at least organized criminal intent -- is most often driven by the profit motive, then the profit motive is as good a sieve as any.

So if your conspiracy theory lays out how some rich dick gets richer because of some crime, disaster or tragedy, it's at least worth a listen.

But if your conspiracy theory is that, say, liberals are eating babies on the orders of supernatural evil, but no one's getting paid in the transactions, then you're LARPing a bad D&D scenario.

The next time someone throws a conspiracy theory your way, ask them who gets paid.

If they have a good answer for you, then like and subscribe. If not, unfollow.

Beyond that, a term to replace "conspiracy theory" might be a good idea, but considering how hard it would be to popularize something new, I think it may be best to hold onto it and work to claim the term away from the CIA and their spiritual contemporaries.

We could even make a joke out of it: "That's our word; You can't use it!" After all, humor is one of the most effective ways to win over an audience.

The Big Lie is the trojan horse for millions of other GQP/MAGA lies. #indoctrinated

[cryptofuturetimes]

Exclusive: How the New U.S. Bill to Regulate Crypto Assets Could Affect the Entire Industry?

A number of US senators have introduced new legislation aimed at combating money laundering using digital assets. According to the normative document, it is assumed that service providers will be equated to the category of financial institutions. At the same time, they undertake to report to the tax authorities about payments exceeding $10,000. Experts told our editorial staff about how this could affect the entire crypto industry. Polygant CEO Stanislav Chernukhin stressed that the pressure from regulators on the digital asset segment in the US is growing. Indeed, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Roger Marshall introduced a bill to combat money laundering in cryptocurrencies, with Joe Manchin and Lindsey Graham being co-sponsors. It is noteworthy that the Chamber of Digital Commerce is critical of this initiative. Experts fear that this will slow down the development of innovations in the country, as well as lead to a drain of qualified personnel. According to Stanislav Chernukhin, the pressure of regulators will continue, however, the crypto-currency sector demonstrates outstanding stability. According to the CEO of the International PR agency PRETO BUSINESS Victoria Ustimenko, any adequate regulation will only be a plus. The current bill is an attempt to take total control of the digital asset segment, which is in many ways similar to the securities market. Controlling taxation and tightening KYC rules is a positive trend. The only thing to be wary of in any jurisdiction is a total ban on digital assets and criminal prosecution of specialized service providers. Dmitry Noskov, an expert at the StormGain crypto exchange, concluded that this bill could have a serious impact if it is passed. In part, it will be a blow to the entire crypto segment, as regulators are already exerting serious pressure. And here the problem is that against the background of the ratification of this initiative, digital currencies will lose their basic advantage - the anonymity of transactions. It is possible that against this background, cryptocurrency startups will have more motivation to leave the US jurisdiction. XIVE Client Relations Director Vitalia Makeeva positively assesses the current situation. She stressed that the key goal of the bill is to hinder the activities of criminals as much as possible. And in the future, all countries that have taken the path of legalizing digital assets will face this. It is not worth expecting total pressure on the cryptocurrency industry against the background of the adoption of this regulatory act, since it will have legal force only in the United States. Artur Usmanov, CEO of First Block labs, shares a similar opinion. The expert noted that the American sector is already heavily regulated. Accordingly, the new bill will not have a particularly strong impact on the digital asset segment in the United States. Now, a strong driver for growth can be the approval of applications for the creation of spot crypto funds. But even without this, the liquidity of the digital asset market is highly likely to grow next year against the backdrop of the upcoming halving. The CEO of Business Planning Experts LLC suggests that the bill could have a significant impact on the entire cryptocurrency sector, as it will increase financial transparency. However, it is worth considering the concerns of many crypto enthusiasts who believe that the bill will jeopardize the confidentiality and security of financial data. At the same time, they by their nature do not fit into the fundamental concept of digital assets. It is now clear that the confrontation between innovation and regulation reflects the vast tensions associated with rapidly advancing financial technology. Read the full article