(Subscription required) As California moves to certify alternative dispute resolution providers under a new law, discussions within the State Bar's ADR Working Group highlight a growing consensus that ethics standards matter more than qualifications. However, disputes remain over how to define and enforce those ethical guidelines.

Water managers hope it will offer an economical and environmentally friendly way of tapping the Pacific Ocean for fresh water. If the system proves viable, the company plans to build what it calls a water farm anchored to the ocean floor several miles off the coast of Malibu.

Justices with the 5th District Court of Appeal peppered attorneys with questions about the application of state water law and the fight over Kern River flows during arguments in Fresno on Thursday.

(Subscription required) Echoing recent remarks by Chief Justice John Roberts, veteran judges from all four of California’s federal district courts stressed the importance of judicial independence during a panel Thursday at the annual Class Action Law Forum hosted by the University of San Diego School of Law.