Faith. Service. Law.

Writing

Thoughtful writing at the intersection of faith, public service, and constitutional principles.

Meaning and Method in Comparative Theology
Faith

Meaning and Method in Comparative Theology

In this post in my series “God and Man at Yale Divinity I share my reading...

· 5 min read
Judaea Capta Coins as Imperial Propaganda
Faith

Judaea Capta Coins as Imperial Propaganda

In this post in my series “God and Man at Yale Divinity I share my paper on...

· 5 min read
Joseph Ratzinger, Doubt, and Humility
Faith

Joseph Ratzinger, Doubt, and Humility

In this post in my series “God and Man at Yale Divinity I share my paper on...

· 5 min read
God Desires All Men To Be Saved
Faith

God Desires All Men To Be Saved

“God ‘desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth’: that is, of Christ Jesus.”

· 5 min read
Progressive Revelation of the Divine Character
Faith

Progressive Revelation of the Divine Character

The God we see in the Old Testament is only partially revealed. In Christ, that slow, progressive revelation came to fruition, and there is no additional...

· 5 min read
The Full Revelation of God
Faith

The Full Revelation of God

First and foremost, the Catholic Church affirms that as God incarnate, Jesus Christ is the full revelation of God. Through Christ, God has said...

· 5 min read
Joseph Ratzinger and the Purpose of Theology
Faith

Joseph Ratzinger and the Purpose of Theology

In this post in my series “God and Man at Yale Divinity I share my paper on...

· 5 min read
Pluralism v. Inclusivism: Salvation and Diversity
Faith

Pluralism v. Inclusivism: Salvation and Diversity

In this post in my series “God and Man at Yale Divinity I share my paper...

· 5 min read
Stages of Revelation
Faith

Stages of Revelation

The stories of biblical heroes embody and consequently represent larger narratives about the various stages of revelation.

· 5 min read
God’s Gradual Revelation of Himself
Faith

God’s Gradual Revelation of Himself

Humanity could only begin to grasp the mystery of the Trinity after millennia of previous gradual revelation.

· 5 min read
Errors in Scripture and Biblical Authority
Faith

Errors in Scripture and Biblical Authority

In this article, I discuss whether contradictions and errors in Scripture affect the theological concept of inerrancy and whether we should redefine the...

· 5 min read
Divine Condescension and Divine Love
Faith

Divine Condescension and Divine Love

We worship a God who meets us where we are. This demonstrates divine condescension. We worship a loving God who pursues gently and without coercion.

· 5 min read
Man as a Religious Being
Faith

Man as a Religious Being

“Man is by nature and vocation a religious being…He lives a fully human life only if he freely lives by his bond with God.”

· 5 min read
Our Capacity to Know God
Faith

Our Capacity to Know God

“In the historical conditions in which he finds himself, however, man experiences many difficulties in coming to know God by the light of reason alone.”

· 5 min read
Week 6 of JASOC: Pilot Culture
Service

Week 6 of JASOC: Pilot Culture

In this post, I discuss my sixth week in JASOC and my interaction with Air Force pilot culture.

· 5 min read
To Know God as a Catholic
Faith

To Know God as a Catholic

Our desire to know God does not necessitate our accepting the object of our desire should he reveal himself. The hungry man may reject the food set...

· 5 min read
The Greatest Country as a Unifying Theme
Personal

The Greatest Country as a Unifying Theme

The United States is the greatest country on earth, and the biggest hindrance to its fulfilling its full potential is those among us who would deny this.

· 5 min read
Married Clergy: Progressive or Ultra-Traditional?
Faith

Married Clergy: Progressive or Ultra-Traditional?

If Pope Francis allows for married clergy, will it be a progressive or ultra-conservative move? Will the Pope be making a change or reverting to earlier...

· 5 min read
Love of Country as a Unifying Principle
Service

Love of Country as a Unifying Principle

Perhaps once a shared love of country bound us together, but now I fear we are fracturing between those who love this country and those who denigrate...

· 5 min read
COVID-19 Testing Delays and Government Incompetence
Service

COVID-19 Testing Delays and Government Incompetence

With these testing delays that are plaguing the country, I am left wondering what value these mass testings have. This content uses referral...

· 5 min read
Effort and Faith in the Catholic Church
Faith

Effort and Faith in the Catholic Church

Our salvation requires effort, our effort. This does not mean that our efforts save us, but rather is simply an admission that becoming who God would...

· 5 min read
Faith and the Foundation of Belief
Faith

Faith and the Foundation of Belief

“Faith is man’s response to God, who reveals himself and gives himself to man, at the same time bringing man a superabundant light as he searches for the...

· 5 min read
The Catechism as an Exposition of Divine Love
Faith

The Catechism as an Exposition of Divine Love

God is love, and the Catechism must be read in its entirety as the outworking of that divine love in the world.

· 5 min read
The Courage to Speak for Rule of Law
Law

The Courage to Speak for Rule of Law

We must awaken the courage that has defined the American ethos for generations, or we may forever lose the founder’s legacy.

· 5 min read
Proof-Texting and The Catechism
Faith

Proof-Texting and The Catechism

In this post, I discuss proof-texting and the importance of considering each of the teachings of the faith as part of a unified whole.

· 5 min read
Catholic-Protestant Relations and the Catechism
Faith

Catholic-Protestant Relations and the Catechism

In this post, I take a look at Catholic-Protestant relations in light of the Catholic Church’s organization of her own Catechism.

· 5 min read
The Year of COVID-19 and Hope for the Future
Personal

The Year of COVID-19 and Hope for the Future

In this post, I discuss COVID-19, murder hornets, the joy that is 2020, and my optimism for the future.

· 5 min read
The Protestant Ideal as a Logical Fallacy
Faith

The Protestant Ideal as a Logical Fallacy

In this post, I discuss how Protestants often set up the Protestant ideal against the Catholic reality and the logical failure of such arguments.

· 5 min read
Catechesis and the Preservation of the Faith
Faith

Catechesis and the Preservation of the Faith

In this post, I continue my reflection on the Catechism of the Catholic Church, giving particular attention to the Church’s understanding of catechesis.

· 5 min read
Evangelical Catholic Thought
Faith

Evangelical Catholic Thought

In this post, I continue my reflections upon the Catechism of the Catholic Church with particular reflection upon the existence of evangelical Catholic...

· 5 min read
Prologue to the Catechism of the Catholic Church
Faith

Prologue to the Catechism of the Catholic Church

In this post, I begin working through and reflecting upon the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

· 5 min read
Getting Acquainted with the Latin Mass Crowd
Faith

Getting Acquainted with the Latin Mass Crowd

In this post, I discuss my interactions to date with the Latin mass crowd. This content uses referral...

· 5 min read
Choose to Believe
Faith

Choose to Believe

In this article, I discuss doubt and how we choose to believe. This content uses referral links

· 5 min read
Disown Family Members Over Politics?
Personal

Disown Family Members Over Politics?

In this post, I discuss those who would disown family members over political beliefs.

· 5 min read
We Must Not Yield on Due Process
Law

We Must Not Yield on Due Process

In this post, I reflect upon the sacrosanct nature of due process and why we should safeguard it at all costs. This content uses referral...

· 5 min read
Twitter Toxicity
Personal

Twitter Toxicity

In this post, I reflect upon Twitter toxicity and the worldview-warping nature of social media.

· 5 min read
Sola Scriptura and the Journey Toward Catholicism
Faith

Sola Scriptura and the Journey Toward Catholicism

In this post, I write about sola scriptura and what started my journey toward the Catholic Church.

· 5 min read
What Is Forgiveness?
Personal

What Is Forgiveness?

In this post, I write about my journey toward understanding forgiveness.

· 5 min read
The Achievement of Chalcedon
Faith

The Achievement of Chalcedon

In this post in my series “God and Man at Yale Divinity I share my paper on...

· 5 min read
Week 5 of JASOC: Experiencing Regret
Service

Week 5 of JASOC: Experiencing Regret

In this post, I discuss my fifth week in JASOC and some of the regret I still have about joining the Air Force.

· 5 min read
The Mother of Jesus as a Named Source in John
Faith

The Mother of Jesus as a Named Source in John

In this post in my series “God and Man at Yale Divinity I share my paper on...

· 5 min read
Married Priests and De-Innovating the Catholic Church
Faith

Married Priests and De-Innovating the Catholic Church

In this post, I discuss married priests and distinguish between innovations and de-innovations within the Roman Catholic Church.

· 5 min read
Should Eastern Orthodoxy Exist in the West?
Faith

Should Eastern Orthodoxy Exist in the West?

In this post, I consider whether Eastern Orthodoxy, according to its own teachings, should exist in the West at all.

· 5 min read
Hellenistic Christianity
Faith

Hellenistic Christianity

In this post in my series “God and Man at Yale Divinity I share my paper on...

· 5 min read
Jesus as a Politician
Faith

Jesus as a Politician

In this post, I discuss the Jesus as a politician motif, an unfortunate attempt to use the divine as the authority backstopping our own political biases.

· 5 min read
Inspiration of Scripture
Faith

Inspiration of Scripture

In this post, I reflect on the inspiration of Scripture and what we mean when we say that the Bible is divinely inspired.

· 5 min read
Week 4 of JASOC: Get In The Courtroom
Law

Week 4 of JASOC: Get In The Courtroom

In this post, I discuss finally being able to get in the courtroom in the fourth week of JASOC.

· 5 min read
Politics Is So Small
Service

Politics Is So Small

As we endure another election cycle and witness the politicization of a worldwide pandemic, it’s easy to get discouraged. We must remember that politics...

· 5 min read
Atheism Provides a False Sense of Intelligence
Law

Atheism Provides a False Sense of Intelligence

In my interaction with militant nonbelievers, it has become apparent that, for many, atheism provides a false sense of intelligence.

· 5 min read
The Insufferable Recovering Evangelical
Faith

The Insufferable Recovering Evangelical

The real pain with which a recovering evangelical may suffer makes relating to the church difficult.

· 5 min read
Fight the Cynic
Faith

Fight the Cynic

For believers trying to progress in the faith, it is critical that we fight the cynic within us.

· 5 min read
The Military Doesn’t Trust Its Leadership
Service

The Military Doesn’t Trust Its Leadership

Anyone paying attention to the media can see what we veterans already know: the military doesn’t trust its leadership.

· 5 min read
What is a Liberal?
Service

What is a Liberal?

The Simpsons seeks to find the elusive answer to the question, “What is a liberal?”

· 5 min read
Anti-Catholic Evangelicals
Faith

Anti-Catholic Evangelicals

During this time of quarantine, I have had the opportunity to dialogue with some old-school anti-Catholic evangelicals, and it has left me wondering how...

· 5 min read
Waiting to Reopen
Personal

Waiting to Reopen

As life has hit the pause button amid this pandemic, I will choose to be grateful for what I have as we are all waiting to reopen.

· 5 min read
Sara Patterson Named 2020 Garrett Ham Scholar
Community

Sara Patterson Named 2020 Garrett Ham Scholar

This year, Ouachita Baptist University awarded the Garrett Ham Scholarship to Sara Patterson. This content uses referral...

· 5 min read
Paper Writing and Basement Dwelling
Law

Paper Writing and Basement Dwelling

This post discusses the paper writing process without access to a library or even the ability to leave my house. This content uses referral...

· 5 min read
Disciples of All Nations: Pillars of World Christianity – A Review
Faith

Disciples of All Nations: Pillars of World Christianity – A Review

What follows is a review of Lamin Sanneh’s Disciples of All Nations: Pillars of World...

· 5 min read
The Ivy League on Pass/Fail
Law

The Ivy League on Pass/Fail

This post discusses the sudden implantation of pass/fail grading systems at Yale and the sense of entitlement surrounding it.

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Enough with the Deference to the Military
Service

Enough with the Deference to the Military

In this post, I discuss faux deference to the military and how it has warped the ability of military personnel and veterans to interact with society.

· 5 min read
Zoom, Yale, and the New Ivy League Experience
Personal

Zoom, Yale, and the New Ivy League Experience

This post discusses the beginning of the Zoom era at Yale and how managing the COVID fallout has given birth to a new Ivy League experience.

· 5 min read
Angry All the Time in the Ivy League
Law

Angry All the Time in the Ivy League

In this post, I discuss why I think students on elite college campuses seem angry all the time.

· 5 min read
COVID, Yale, and a Brave New World
Law

COVID, Yale, and a Brave New World

In this post, I discuss COVID, its ramifications on Yale’s campus, and the new normal after the end of spring break.

· 5 min read
The Strange Call for Military Justice Reform
Service

The Strange Call for Military Justice Reform

Botched investigations Lack of...

· 5 min read
The Military and the Elite
Service

The Military and the Elite

The relationship between the military and the elite has evolved significantly over the years and not for the better.

· 5 min read
Spring Break, Buckley, and the Coronavirus
Service

Spring Break, Buckley, and the Coronavirus

In this post, I discuss the first week of spring break, the Buckley seminar, and the start of the Coronavirus pandemic.

· 5 min read
The Ivy League Façade
Law

The Ivy League Façade

As I begin to grow comfortable at Yale, I am becoming more aware of the Ivy League façade that masks much of the mundane and unpolished aspects of elite...

· 5 min read
Making Summer Plans at Yale
Faith

Making Summer Plans at Yale

As the semester begins to progress, I have started making summer plans, largely settling on taking additional classes back home in Arkansas.

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The Work of James Cone
Service

The Work of James Cone

In this post in my series “God and Man at Yale Divinity I discuss the sixth...

· 5 min read
My Dinner With Rich Lowry
Faith

My Dinner With Rich Lowry

In this post in my series “God and Man at Yale Divinity I discuss the fifth...

· 5 min read
Ivy League Buzzwords
Faith

Ivy League Buzzwords

In this post in my series “God and Man at Yale Divinity I discuss the fourth...

· 5 min read
Opportunities at Yale Divinity School
Faith

Opportunities at Yale Divinity School

In this post in my series “God and Man at Yale Divinity I discuss the...

· 5 min read
Abortion and the Christian Left
Faith

Abortion and the Christian Left

In this post in my series “God and Man at Yale Divinity I discuss the second...

· 5 min read
Grades at Yale and the End of the Semester
Faith

Grades at Yale and the End of the Semester

In my final post of the Fall 2019 semester at Yale Divinity School, I reflect upon grades at Yale and the end of my first semester here. This content...

· 5 min read
The Administrative Discharge Process – JASOC Week 3
Law

The Administrative Discharge Process – JASOC Week 3

In this post, I discuss the administrative discharge process, the main focus of the third week of JASOC. I also explore other pertinent issues from the...

· 5 min read
Week 14 at YDS: Finals at Yale
Law

Week 14 at YDS: Finals at Yale

In this post in my series “God and Man at Yale Divinity I wrap up the semester...

· 5 min read
Week 13 at Yale: Discerning Vocation
Faith

Week 13 at Yale: Discerning Vocation

In this post in my series “God and Man at Yale Divinity I discuss my thirteenth...

· 5 min read
Week 12 at Yale: The Harvard-Yale Game
Personal

Week 12 at Yale: The Harvard-Yale Game

In this post in my series “God and Man at Yale Divinity I discuss my twelfth...

· 5 min read
Week 11: Veterans Day at Yale
Service

Week 11: Veterans Day at Yale

In this post in my series “God and Man at Yale Divinity I discuss my eleventh...

· 5 min read
Week 10 at Yale: Ph.D. Aspirations
Faith

Week 10 at Yale: Ph.D. Aspirations

In this post in my series “God and Man at Yale Divinity I discuss my tenth...

· 5 min read
The Social Justice Warriors: Week 9 at Yale Divinity School
Faith

The Social Justice Warriors: Week 9 at Yale Divinity School

In this post in my series “God and Man at Yale Divinity I discuss the social...

· 5 min read
Week 8 at Yale: Cancel Culture Comes to YDS
Service

Week 8 at Yale: Cancel Culture Comes to YDS

In this post in my series “God and Man at Yale Divinity I discuss my first...

· 5 min read
Week 7 at Yale: Struggle with Scriptural Inerrancy
Law

Week 7 at Yale: Struggle with Scriptural Inerrancy

In this post in my series “God and Man at Yale Divinity School I discuss my...

· 5 min read
Week 6: Viewpoint Diversity at Yale Divinity School
Faith

Week 6: Viewpoint Diversity at Yale Divinity School

In this post in my series “God and Man at Yale Divinity I discuss my sixth...

· 5 min read
Week 5: Conservatives at Yale Divinity
Service

Week 5: Conservatives at Yale Divinity

In this post in my series “God and Man at Yale Divinity I discuss my fifth...

· 5 min read
Week 4 at Yale: Appreciating The Authority of Community
Faith

Week 4 at Yale: Appreciating The Authority of Community

In this post in my series “God and Man at Yale Divinity I discuss my fourth...

· 5 min read
Week 3: Using the GI Bill for Graduate School at Yale
Law

Week 3: Using the GI Bill for Graduate School at Yale

In this post in my series “God and Man at Yale Divinity School I discuss my...

· 5 min read
Week 2 of JASOC
Service

Week 2 of JASOC

In this post, I discuss my second week at JASOC. Please be aware that I am publishing this based on notes I took during my time at JASOC five years ago....

· 5 min read
Week 2: Opportunities for Spiritual Growth at Yale
Faith

Week 2: Opportunities for Spiritual Growth at Yale

In this post in my series “God and Man at Yale Divinity I discuss my second week...

· 5 min read
Week 1 of the Master of Divinity Program at Yale
Faith

Week 1 of the Master of Divinity Program at Yale

In this post in my series “God and Man at Yale Divinity I discuss my first week in...

· 5 min read
BTFO (Before the Fall Orientation) at Yale
Faith

BTFO (Before the Fall Orientation) at Yale

In this post, I describe BTFO Before the Fall Orientation at Yale Divinity School.

· 5 min read
Personal Statement from Yale Divinity Application
Personal

Personal Statement from Yale Divinity Application

In this post in my series God and Man at Yale Divinity I provide a copy of my...

· 5 min read
God and Man at Yale Divinity
Faith

God and Man at Yale Divinity

In this post, I kick off my blog series, “God and Man at Yale Divinity

· 5 min read
Week 1 of the Judge Advocate Staff Officer Course
Service

Week 1 of the Judge Advocate Staff Officer Course

In this post, I discuss my first week at the Judge Advocate Staff Officer Course.

· 5 min read
The Air Force JAG Corps
Service

The Air Force JAG Corps

In this post, I discuss my transition to and experience in the Air Force JAG Corps.

· 5 min read
Mattie Dodson Named 2019 Garrett Ham Scholar
Community

Mattie Dodson Named 2019 Garrett Ham Scholar

This year, Ouachita Baptist University awarded the Garrett Ham Scholarship to Mattie Dodson. This content uses referral...

· 5 min read
The Lost World of Genesis One
Faith

The Lost World of Genesis One

What follows is a review of The Lost World of Genesis...

· 5 min read
Colton Sims and Cole Jester Named 2018 Garrett Ham Scholars
Community

Colton Sims and Cole Jester Named 2018 Garrett Ham Scholars

This year, two students will share the Garrett Ham Scholarship. Ouachita Baptist University awarded the funds to both Colton Sims and Cole Jester.

· 5 min read
The Crucifixion of the Warrior God: A Bridge Too Far
Faith

The Crucifixion of the Warrior God: A Bridge Too Far

What follows is a review of The Crucifixion of the Warrior...

· 5 min read
Ouachita Baptist University Names Taylor Bascue the 2017 Garrett Ham Scholar
Community

Ouachita Baptist University Names Taylor Bascue the 2017 Garrett Ham Scholar

Taylor Bascue is one of a number promising students at Ouachita Baptist University. Watch the video below for more information.

· 5 min read
Community

Ouachita Baptist University Names Libby Hilliard the 2016 Garrett Ham Scholar

At its annual awards reception, the Carl Goodson Honors Program at Ouachita Baptist University named...

· 5 min read
Cy Pres, Modification, and Dissolution of Nonprofits
Law

Cy Pres, Modification, and Dissolution of Nonprofits

In this post, I discuss the process of changing a nonprofit, including the modification of its terms through cy pres and dissolution.

· 5 min read
Founding a Nonprofit Organization
Law

Founding a Nonprofit Organization

In this post, I discuss some considerations when founding a nonprofit organization, including choosing the organization’s form.

· 5 min read
Nonprofit Organizations
Law

Nonprofit Organizations

In this post, I discuss the basics of nonprofit organizations, why they are necessary, and the essential role they play in our society.

· 5 min read
Greg Boyd’s Answer to the Problem of Suffering: A Review
Faith

Greg Boyd’s Answer to the Problem of Suffering: A Review

In this post, I discuss Greg Boyd’s answer to the problem of suffering in his book Is God to Blame?: Beyond Pat Answers to the Problem of...

· 5 min read
Protestants and Purgatory
Faith

Protestants and Purgatory

In this post, I discuss the doctrine of purgatory and argue that it has a legitimate place with an evangelical Protestant understanding of salvation.

· 5 min read
Atonement Without Anselm
Faith

Atonement Without Anselm

*](https://www.flickr.com/photos/clairity/5522572224/in/photolist-9q1Cju-9Bx1Kw-9ounxk-pCDUVt-pCDUzi-qzfkZ2-qhYo12-qhS5r7-qi12Ma-pCDSJ4-qhRooQ-iihZSZ-iihZ...

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The 2015 Recipients of the Garrett Ham Scholarship
Community

The 2015 Recipients of the Garrett Ham Scholarship

At its annual awards reception, the Carl Goodson Honors Program at Ouachita Baptist University named...

· 5 min read
How to Talk to Protestants about Scripture
Faith

How to Talk to Protestants about Scripture

!Scripture

· 5 min read
How to Talk to Protestants about Tradition
Faith

How to Talk to Protestants about Tradition

!tradition

· 5 min read
How to Talk to Protestants about Divine Revelation
Faith

How to Talk to Protestants about Divine Revelation

!divine...

· 5 min read
How to Talk to Protestants about Authority
Faith

How to Talk to Protestants about Authority

In this post, I discuss how to talk to Protestants about authority from a Catholic perspective to increase mutual understanding.

· 5 min read
How to Talk to Protestants
Faith

How to Talk to Protestants

!how to talk to...

· 5 min read
Does Everything Happen for a Reason?
Faith

Does Everything Happen for a Reason?

In this post, I contemplate a common refrain in Christian circles and ask, Does everything happen for a reason?

· 5 min read
Military Crimes
Service

Military Crimes

In this post, I discuss military crimes as a distinct system of criminal law and the general structure of the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

· 5 min read
Christ and His Church
Faith

Christ and His Church

!St Mary's Church, Patrixbourne,...

· 5 min read
Rules of Professional Conduct for Judge Advocates
Law

Rules of Professional Conduct for Judge Advocates

In this post, I discuss the specialized rules of professional conduct governing judge advocates practicing law in the military.

· 5 min read
Keep “X” in “Xmas”
Faith

Keep “X” in “Xmas”

In this post, I share my thoughts on what it really means to keep Christ in Xmas.!Happy...

· 5 min read
A Judge Advocate’s Professional Responsibility
Law

A Judge Advocate’s Professional Responsibility

In this post, I discuss the unique rules of professional responsibility imposed on judge advocates practicing within a military context.

· 5 min read
The Court-Martial Process
Law

The Court-Martial Process

In this post, I discuss the entire court-martial process, from preliminary investigation, through the trial, all the way to sentencing.

· 5 min read
Unlawful Command Influence
Law

Unlawful Command Influence

In this post, I discuss unlawful command influence and the issue it poses for the military justice system.

· 5 min read
The Military Court System
Law

The Military Court System

In this post, I provide an overview of the unique characteristics of the military court system, including its trial and appellate courts.

· 5 min read
Fighting Frivolous Appeals
Law

Fighting Frivolous Appeals

In this post, I discuss how the Arkansas Supreme Court is fighting frivolous lawsuits by sanctioning those who file frivolous appeals.

· 5 min read
Introduction to Military Justice
Service

Introduction to Military Justice

In this post, I discuss the UCMJ, and how we got from the military justice system of the Revolutionary War to our modern system.

· 5 min read
Five Common Misconceptions Regarding the Hobby Lobby Decision
Service

Five Common Misconceptions Regarding the Hobby Lobby Decision

In this post, I address some common misunderstandings regarding the Supreme Court’s recent Hobby Lobby decision and its holding on religious liberty.

· 5 min read
Stay Pending Appeal
Law

Stay Pending Appeal

In this post, I discuss the stay pending appeal and how it can prevent the enforcement of a judgment until the final resolution of the appeal.

· 5 min read
Certified Questions of Law
Law

Certified Questions of Law

In this post, I discuss certified questions of law and the interaction between various state and federal courts in the Arkansas appellate process.

· 5 min read
The Mandate and Enforcing the Result of an Appeal
Law

The Mandate and Enforcing the Result of an Appeal

In this post, I discuss the mandate in the Arkansas appellate process and its usefulness in enforcing the result of an appeal.

· 5 min read
The Record on Appeal
Law

The Record on Appeal

In this post, I discuss the record on appeal, what is required, and the important role it plays in the Arkansas appellate practice.

· 5 min read
Oral Arguments
Law

Oral Arguments

In this post, I discuss the place of oral arguments in Arkansas appellate practice, including when they may occur and when they may not.

· 5 min read
Amici Curiae Briefs
Law

Amici Curiae Briefs

In this post, I discuss amici curiae briefs, what they are, and the influence they may possess within the Arkansas appellate process.

· 5 min read
Deadline to File the Record on Appeal
Law

Deadline to File the Record on Appeal

In this post, I discuss the deadline to file the record on appeal and the requirements imposed by the appellate court.

· 5 min read
Deadlines For Filing an Appeal
Law

Deadlines For Filing an Appeal

In this post, I discuss the various deadlines for filing an appeal in Arkansas.

· 5 min read
How to File a Civil Appeal in Arkansas
Law

How to File a Civil Appeal in Arkansas

In this post, I discuss how to file a civil appeal in the State of Arkansas.

· 5 min read
How to Secure a Copyright
Law

How to Secure a Copyright

In this post, I discuss how to secure a copyright protection for your original works.

· 5 min read
Community

Ouachita Baptist University Names Anna Sikes the 2014 Garrett Ham Scholar

At its annual awards reception, the Carl Goodson Honors Program at Ouachita Baptist University named...

· 5 min read
Conducting a Copyright Search
Law

Conducting a Copyright Search

In this post, I discuss how to conduct a copyright search to discover what works have taken advantage of the protections of registration.

· 5 min read
Maintaining a Trademark
Law

Maintaining a Trademark

In this post, I discuss the requirements for maintaining a trademark after registration, including the filing requirements to keep it protected.

· 5 min read
Do I Need a Lawyer to File a Trademark Application?
Law

Do I Need a Lawyer to File a Trademark Application?

!need a lawyer to file a...

· 5 min read
Trademark v. Service Mark
Law

Trademark v. Service Mark

!trademark v. service...

· 5 min read
Copyright Deposit Requirement
Law

Copyright Deposit Requirement

!deposit...

· 5 min read
Copyrights and Foreign Works
Law

Copyrights and Foreign Works

!foreign...

· 5 min read
How Long Does a Copyright Last?
Law

How Long Does a Copyright Last?

[*](https://www.flickr.com/photos/evergreenkamal/384258821/in/photolist-aGsP14-7PozJp-84P71r-dphot9-ix8Rbz-eqHuv-6NP8d6-HdurS-aibaen-6buevW-7acJMF-8DFBf3-...

· 5 min read
Week 10 of the Army JAG School
Service

Week 10 of the Army JAG School

In this post, I discuss my experience during the tenth week of Army JAG School, which focused primarily on legal assistance.

· 5 min read
Welcome to the JAG Corps
Service

Welcome to the JAG Corps

In this post, I discuss my graduation from JAG School and entry into the Army JAG Corps.

· 5 min read
Ultimate Football and Week 9 of JAG School
Service

Ultimate Football and Week 9 of JAG School

In this post, I discuss week 9 of the Army’s JAG School and my introduction to ultimate football.

· 5 min read
Administrative Law and Week 8 of JAG School
Service

Administrative Law and Week 8 of JAG School

In this post, I discuss the administrative law block and week 8 of the Army’s JAG School.

· 5 min read
Copyright Fair Use
Law

Copyright Fair Use

[![fair use](https://www.garrettham.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/3293296714_6519f5908a_z.jpg)](https://www.flickr.com/photos/jurvetson/3293296714)

· 5 min read
International Law and Week 7 of JAG School
Service

International Law and Week 7 of JAG School

In this post, I discuss international law and week 7 of the Army’s JAG School.

· 5 min read
Understanding Copyrights
Law

Understanding Copyrights

!understanding...

· 5 min read
Brief the Commander and Week 6 of JAG School
Law

Brief the Commander and Week 6 of JAG School

In this post, I discuss my experience during week 6 of the Army JAG School, particularly the “brief the commander” exercise.

· 5 min read
Fiscal Law and Week 5 JAG School
Law

Fiscal Law and Week 5 JAG School

In this post, I discuss the contract and fiscal law curriculum during the fifth week of the Army’s JAG School.

· 5 min read
Courts-Martial, Charlottesville, and Week 4 of JAG School
Service

Courts-Martial, Charlottesville, and Week 4 of JAG School

In this post, I discuss my experience in Charlottesville, Virginia during week 4 of the Army JAG School.

· 5 min read
Military Justice and Week 3 of JAG School
Service

Military Justice and Week 3 of JAG School

In this post, I discuss the military justice block of instruction during week 3 of the Army JAG School.

· 5 min read
Week 2 of the Army JAG School
Law

Week 2 of the Army JAG School

In this post, I share my experience during the second week of the Army JAG School.

· 5 min read
Week 1 of the Army JAG School
Service

Week 1 of the Army JAG School

In this post, I share my experience during week 1 of the Army JAG School in Charlottesville, Virginia.

· 5 min read
Final Thoughts Regarding the JAG Corps Direct Commission Course (DCC)
Service

Final Thoughts Regarding the JAG Corps Direct Commission Course (DCC)

In this post, I share my final thoughts on initial Army JAG Corps training at the Army’s Direct Commission Course.

· 5 min read
Judge Advocate Training During Week 6 of DCC
Service

Judge Advocate Training During Week 6 of DCC

In this post, I describe judge advocate training during week 6 of the Army’s Direct Commission Course.

· 5 min read
Copyright Registration
Law

Copyright Registration

In this post, I discuss the process and benefits of copyright registration and how it can provide greater protections to your intellectual property.

· 5 min read
Convoy Operations in Week 5 of DCC
Service

Convoy Operations in Week 5 of DCC

In this post, I discuss my experiences during week 5 of the Army’s Direct Commission Course, which focused heavily on convoy operations.

· 5 min read
Rifle Marksmanship and Week 4 of DCC
Service

Rifle Marksmanship and Week 4 of DCC

In this post, I discuss basic rifle marksmanship instruction during the fourth week of the Army’s Direct Commission Course.

· 5 min read
Land Navigation and Week 3 of DCC
Service

Land Navigation and Week 3 of DCC

In this post, I discuss the third week of the Army’s Direct Commission Course. This week focused on land navigation.

· 5 min read
Week 2 of the Army’s Direct Commission Course (DCC)
Service

Week 2 of the Army’s Direct Commission Course (DCC)

In this post, I discuss my experience during the second week of the Army’s Direct Commission Course, or DCC.

· 5 min read
Week 1 of the Army’s Direct Commission Course (DCC)
Service

Week 1 of the Army’s Direct Commission Course (DCC)

In this post, I discuss my first week at the Army’s Direct Commission Course, or DCC.

· 5 min read
Army JAG Initial Training
Service

Army JAG Initial Training

In this post, I discuss my preparation for initial Army JAG training.

· 5 min read
The Notice of Appeal
Law

The Notice of Appeal

!notice of...

· 5 min read
The Petition For Review
Law

The Petition For Review

In this post, I discuss the petition for review in Arkansas appellate law.

· 5 min read
Arkansas Supreme Court and Court of Appeals: Appellate Jurisdiction in Arkansas
Law

Arkansas Supreme Court and Court of Appeals: Appellate Jurisdiction in Arkansas

!arkansas supreme...

· 5 min read
Quoted By Credit.com
Law

Quoted By Credit.com

!Credit Cards

· 5 min read
The Basis for a Trademark Application
Law

The Basis for a Trademark Application

[![basis](https://www.garrettham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/9237786653_5c7e7b0a81_z.jpg)](https://www.flickr.com/photos/danmoyle/9237786653)

· 5 min read
After Filing Your Trademark Application
Law

After Filing Your Trademark Application

!trademark...

· 5 min read
Intellectual Property
Law

Intellectual Property

!intellectual...

· 5 min read
Registering Your Trademark
Law

Registering Your Trademark

In this post, I discuss the process and requirements of registering your trademark, a great way to protect your intellectual property.

· 5 min read
Availability of Civil Appeals in Arkansas
Law

Availability of Civil Appeals in Arkansas

!civil appeals

· 5 min read
Agency Relationships
Personal

Agency Relationships

!agency...

· 5 min read
Agent Liability to a Third Party
Law

Agent Liability to a Third Party

In this post, I discuss agent liability to third parties. I further discuss the danger it poses to agents as they perform their duties.

· 5 min read
The S Corporation
Law

The S Corporation

[![S...

· 5 min read
Piercing the Corporate Veil
Law

Piercing the Corporate Veil

!piercing the corporate...

· 5 min read
Partnership Tax Terms
Law

Partnership Tax Terms

!partnership tax...

· 5 min read
The Benefits of Partnership Taxation
Law

The Benefits of Partnership Taxation

!partnership...

· 5 min read
The Business Judgment Rule
Law

The Business Judgment Rule

In this post, I discuss the business judgment rule and the legal liability protections that it provides to company management.

· 5 min read
Fiduciary Duties of an Agent
Law

Fiduciary Duties of an Agent

!duties of an...

· 5 min read
Directors’ Duty of Loyalty
Law

Directors’ Duty of Loyalty

In this post, I discuss the directors’ duty of loyalty to the company they manage and how this may interact with potential legal liabilities.

· 5 min read
Irrevocable Agencies
Law

Irrevocable Agencies

!irrevocable agencies

· 5 min read
Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs)
Law

Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs)

!limited liability...

· 5 min read
Limited Partnerships (LPs)
Law

Limited Partnerships (LPs)

!limited...

· 5 min read
The Shareholder Derivative Suit
Law

The Shareholder Derivative Suit

!shareholder derivative...

· 5 min read
Shareholders and Directors
Law

Shareholders and Directors

!shareholders and...

· 5 min read
Creating and Terminating an Agency Relationship
Law

Creating and Terminating an Agency Relationship

In this post, I discuss the agency relationship. I particularly discuss how both to create and terminate such relationships.

· 5 min read
Closing The Internet Sales Tax Gaps – Who Wins And Who Loses?
Law

Closing The Internet Sales Tax Gaps – Who Wins And Who Loses?

In this guest post, Matthew Brennan, a marketing writer writing on behalf of The Hays Firm, LLC in Chicago, discusses the...

· 5 min read
Dividends
Law

Dividends

!Dividends

· 5 min read
Power of Appointment
Law

Power of Appointment

In this post, I discuss the power of appointment and specifically discuss the difference between general and special powers.

· 5 min read
Who Has the Right to Receive Trust Distributions?
Law

Who Has the Right to Receive Trust Distributions?

[![trust...

· 5 min read
Trust Modification and Termination
Law

Trust Modification and Termination

[![trust...

· 5 min read
Charitable Trusts
Law

Charitable Trusts

!charitable trusts

· 5 min read
The Corporation
Law

The Corporation

!corporation

· 5 min read
The Role of the Lawyer in Business
Law

The Role of the Lawyer in Business

!Serious...

· 5 min read
Creating a Trust
Law

Creating a Trust

!creating a trust

· 5 min read
Using a Family Limited Partnership to Lower Estate Tax Liabilities
Law

Using a Family Limited Partnership to Lower Estate Tax Liabilities

!Family Limited Partnership to Lower Estate...

· 5 min read
The Family Limited Partnership as an Innovative Estate-Planning Tool
Law

The Family Limited Partnership as an Innovative Estate-Planning Tool

In this post, I discuss family limited partnerships and the potential tax benefits they may offer for business and estate planning alike.

· 5 min read
When an Heir Predeceases the Testator
Law

When an Heir Predeceases the Testator

[![heir...

· 5 min read
Can Your Employer Stop You From Taking a Holiday?
Law

Can Your Employer Stop You From Taking a Holiday?

In this guest post, Lauren Hillier, an employment lawyer at Slater & Gordon Lawyers in the United Kingdom, discusses vacation policy in her country. This...

· 5 min read
Introduction to Trusts
Law

Introduction to Trusts

In this post, I provide an introduction to trusts, how they work, their benefits, and some of their basic attributes that make them valuable tools.

· 5 min read
Duties of a Trustee of a Trust
Law

Duties of a Trustee of a Trust

!Duties of a...

· 5 min read
The Video Will
Law

The Video Will

In this post, I discuss the popular idea of the video will, separating fact from fiction to discuss when such a will can serve a valid purpose.

· 5 min read
Abatement and Ademption: Property Changes and Your Kids’ Inheritance
Law

Abatement and Ademption: Property Changes and Your Kids’ Inheritance

!abatement

· 5 min read
The Arkansas Probate Process
Law

The Arkansas Probate Process

In this post, I discuss the various steps in the Arkansas probate process. For more detailed information, please see my book, The Simple Guide to Estate...

· 5 min read
Differences in UK and US Business Law
Law

Differences in UK and US Business Law

In this guest post, James Faulkner, a specialist legal copywriter from the United Kingdom, discusses the differences in United Kingdom and United States...

· 5 min read
Law

Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust (ILIT)

In a previous post I discussed the role life insurance can play in an estate plan. In...

· 5 min read
Law

Grounds to Contest a Will

In a previous post I discussed the proper mental capacity required to form a valid will. If the...

· 5 min read
Law

Required Mental Capacity to Make a Will

A will is often the easiest way to ensure that your property is disposed of in accordance with your wishes after death. Not everyone, however, may draft a...

· 5 min read
Law

The No Contest Clause

In previous posts, I discussed grounds for will contests, including lack of mental capacity undue...

· 5 min read
Probate Public Notice and the Nonclaim Statute
Law

Probate Public Notice and the Nonclaim Statute

In this post, I discuss the public notice requirement imposed by the probate process.

· 5 min read
Small Estate Probate
Law

Small Estate Probate

In this post, I discuss small estate probate in Arkansas, a streamlined probate process that bypasses some of the normal probate headaches.

· 5 min read
The Problem of the Dead Hand
Law

The Problem of the Dead Hand

In this post, I discuss the ability of the dead to affect the behavior of the living, sometimes known as the problem of the dead hand.

· 5 min read
Revoking a Will
Law

Revoking a Will

In this post, I discuss the process of revoking a will to ensure its provisions are not carried out.

· 5 min read
Ambiguous Wills
Law

Ambiguous Wills

In this post, I discuss ambiguous wills, the difficulties they cause in distributing property, and how courts try to handle these situations.

· 5 min read
Law

Issues of Inheritance Planning

In most circumstances, inheritance planning is relatively straightforward, particularly where you want to leave your property to your surviving children....

· 5 min read
Parts of a Will
Law

Parts of a Will

In this post, I discuss and explain the various different parts of a will and their importance when drafting your will.

· 5 min read
Bars to Inheritance
Law

Bars to Inheritance

!1780 quadruple murder in...

· 5 min read
Charitable Remainder Unitrust
Law

Charitable Remainder Unitrust

In this post, I discuss the charitable remainder unitrust, the estate planning benefits it offers, and how it can provide you income now.

· 5 min read
Planning with Life Insurance
Law

Planning with Life Insurance

In this post, I discuss some techniques for estate planning with life insurance, the benefits it can offer, and how it can help address estate tax...

· 5 min read
Filing for Divorce and the Gray Zone of Inheritance
Law

Filing for Divorce and the Gray Zone of Inheritance

In this guest post, Howard Iken a divorce attorney in Orlando,...

· 5 min read
Trusts and Probate
Law

Trusts and Probate

!Black & White...

· 5 min read
Qualified Personal Residence Trust (QPRT)
Law

Qualified Personal Residence Trust (QPRT)

!A. H. Allyn...

· 5 min read
GRATs and GRUTs
Law

GRATs and GRUTs

In this post, I discuss grantor retained annuity trusts GRATs, grantor retained unitrusts GRUTs, and their potential estate planning benefits.

· 5 min read
Life Insurance
Law

Life Insurance

!Universal Life Insurance Company...

· 5 min read
Grantor Retained Income Trusts (GRITs)
Law

Grantor Retained Income Trusts (GRITs)

[![Money](https://www.garrettham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/7027604401_406e35ba1f_z.jpg)](https://www.flickr.com/photos/76657755@N04/7027604401)

· 5 min read
Planned Giving Strategies
Law

Planned Giving Strategies

!For the Poor Charity Box Basilica of St. Adelbert Grand Rapids December 29,...

· 5 min read
Timing and Limitations of the Charitable Donation Deduction
Law

Timing and Limitations of the Charitable Donation Deduction

In this post, I discuss the charitable donation deduction, its limitations, and how knowledge of this information can help you with your tax planning.

· 5 min read
Giving Gifts of Partial Interests to Charity
Law

Giving Gifts of Partial Interests to Charity

In this post, I discuss gifts of partial interest to charity, the tax benefits they may provide, and how understanding them can help lower your tax bill.

· 5 min read
Noncash Gifts to Charity
Law

Noncash Gifts to Charity

!1990 Chevrolet Beretta Indy 500 Pace...

· 5 min read
Charitable Deductions
Law

Charitable Deductions

In this post, I discuss qualified charitable deductions for purposes of the income and estate taxes and how they can help lower your tax bill.

· 5 min read
Understanding the “Skip Person”
Law

Understanding the “Skip Person”

In this post, I define a skip person for purposes of the generation-skipping transfer tax. For more detailed information, please see my book, The...

· 5 min read
Generation-Skipping Transfer Tax
Law

Generation-Skipping Transfer Tax

!Hitting the links

· 5 min read
Uniform Transfer to Minors Act
Law

Uniform Transfer to Minors Act

!The Believer's...

· 5 min read
Grantor Trusts
Law

Grantor Trusts

In this post, I discuss the grantor trust and the potential estate planning benefits it can offer.

· 5 min read
529 Plans
Law

529 Plans

!Autumn night in Harvard...

· 5 min read
The Crummey Trust
Law

The Crummey Trust

!grandchildren

· 5 min read
Qualified Domestic Trust (QDOT)
Law

Qualified Domestic Trust (QDOT)

!Overholser...

· 5 min read
Irrevocable Living Trusts
Law

Irrevocable Living Trusts

In this post, I discuss the irrevocable living trust and the advantages it can provide as part of a comprehensive estate plan.

· 5 min read
Adult Guardianship
Law

Adult Guardianship

In this post, I discuss the process of establishing an adult guardianship, particularly for family members who are unable to care for themselves.

· 5 min read
Qualified Terminable Interest Property (QTIP) Trust
Law

Qualified Terminable Interest Property (QTIP) Trust

[![-1](https://www.garrettham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/4458038791_eef737c27a_o.jpg)](https://www.flickr.com/photos/emerycophoto/4458038791)

· 5 min read
Creditors and Tenancy By The Entirety
Law

Creditors and Tenancy By The Entirety

In this post, I discuss tenancy by the entirety, a common way married couples own property together, and the asset protection benefits it may provide.

· 5 min read
HIPAA
Law

HIPAA

!Information Security Wordle: NIST HIPAA Security Guide...

· 5 min read
The Living Will
Law

The Living Will

!Lubbock Heart Hospital, Dec 16-17,...

· 5 min read
The Holographic Will
Law

The Holographic Will

[![writer](https://www.garrettham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/8246777346_65a6c0ce84_k-1024x680.jpg)](https://www.flickr.com/photos/mario-mancuso/824677...

· 5 min read
The Durable Power of Attorney
Law

The Durable Power of Attorney

In this post, I discuss the durable power of attorney and the potential benefits that it can offer.

· 5 min read
The Power of Attorney
Law

The Power of Attorney

!Tax Center Education - U.S. Army Garrison Humphreys, South Korea - 15 January...

· 5 min read
Pros and Cons of a Living Trust
Law

Pros and Cons of a Living Trust

In this post, I discuss the pros and cons of a living trust, particularly the benefits and drawbacks it offers as part of your estate plan.

· 5 min read
Per Capita and Per Capita at Each Generation
Law

Per Capita and Per Capita at Each Generation

In this post, I discuss the per capita and the per capita at each generation manners of inheritance distribution. For more detailed information,...

· 5 min read
Per Stirpes
Law

Per Stirpes

In this post, I discuss the per stirpes manner of inheritance distribution. For more detailed information, please see my book, The Simple Guide to...

· 5 min read
Executing a Will in Arkansas
Law

Executing a Will in Arkansas

!Last Will And...

· 5 min read
Your Will and Residuary Estate
Law

Your Will and Residuary Estate

!Ground and aerial shots of recent real estate projects we've...

· 5 min read
The Arkansas Anti-Lapse Statute
Law

The Arkansas Anti-Lapse Statute

In this post, I discuss the anti-lapse statute, how it affects a bequest to someone who predeceases you, and how it can save an impossible will...

· 5 min read
Disinheriting Children in Arkansas
Law

Disinheriting Children in Arkansas

In this post, I discuss the steps Arkansas requires to disinheriting children. It’s not as easy a simply leaving a child out of your will.

· 5 min read
The Federal Estate Tax
Law

The Federal Estate Tax

!Important: Barack Obama Set The Death Tax At 40 Percent But Wants An Even Higher Rate, The 60 Plus...

· 5 min read
The Federal Gift Tax
Law

The Federal Gift Tax

In this post, I discuss how the gifts you make may result in a large tax bill, courtesy of the federal gift tax, and how this backstops the estate tax.

· 5 min read
Title II Weapons
Law

Title II Weapons

In this post, I discuss the different types of Title II weapons as defined by the National Firearms Act, including machine guns.

· 5 min read
The Living Trust
Law

The Living Trust

In this post, I discuss the revocable living trust and its advantages. Its flexibility has made it a popular estate-planning tool.

· 5 min read
Parental Power of Attorney
Law

Parental Power of Attorney

In this post, I discuss the parental power of attorney and how parents can use it to help provide for their children’s needs.

· 5 min read
Using FLPs to Lower Estate and Gift Tax Liabilities
Law

Using FLPs to Lower Estate and Gift Tax Liabilities

In this post, I discuss how a family limited partnership, or FLP, can be used to reap large estate and gift tax savings and why it’s become so popular.

· 5 min read
NFA Gun Registration Requirements
Law

NFA Gun Registration Requirements

!prison guard...

· 5 min read
Protecting Your Business With a Family Limited Partnership
Personal

Protecting Your Business With a Family Limited Partnership

!EU Family...

· 5 min read
“Do I Need a Lawyer to Draft My Will?”
Law

“Do I Need a Lawyer to Draft My Will?”

!Last Will And...

· 5 min read
Gun Trusts
Law

Gun Trusts

[![IMG_3794](https://www.garrettham.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/4097126286_dc8c233191_b.jpg)](https://www.flickr.com/photos/raybdbomb/4097126286)

· 5 min read
The National Firearms Act of 1934
Law

The National Firearms Act of 1934

!World War 1 World War 2 re-enactors Rotherham...

· 5 min read
Garrett Ham Appears on the 4029 Evening News
Community

Garrett Ham Appears on the 4029 Evening News

[![Power...

· 5 min read
Ouachita Grads Make a Difference
Community

Ouachita Grads Make a Difference

Ouachita Baptist University recently featured me in its “Ouachita Grads Make a Difference” series. In it, they spotlight my work since graduating in...

· 5 min read
The Limited Liability Company (LLC) Part 2
Law

The Limited Liability Company (LLC) Part 2

!Wood Building - Van...

· 5 min read
The Limited Liability Company (LLC) Part 1
Law

The Limited Liability Company (LLC) Part 1

!Small Business Saturday, after Edward...

· 5 min read
Business Forms to Avoid
Law

Business Forms to Avoid

!Mom & Pop's...

· 5 min read
Parents Dying Without a Will
Law

Parents Dying Without a Will

In this post, I discuss the ramifications of parents’ dying without a will.

· 5 min read
Do I Need a Will?
Law

Do I Need a Will?

This post seeks to answer the common question, Do I need a will?

· 5 min read
Ouachita Baptist University Names Chris Redmon the 2013 Garrett Ham Scholar
Community

Ouachita Baptist University Names Chris Redmon the 2013 Garrett Ham Scholar

Chris Redmon is one of a number promising students at Ouachita Baptist University. Watch the video below for more information.

· 5 min read

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