Faith. Service. Law.

Writing

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

Meaning and Method in Comparative Theology

Meaning and Method in Comparative Theology

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

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Judaea Capta Coins as Imperial Propaganda

Judaea Capta Coins as Imperial Propaganda

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

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Joseph Ratzinger, Doubt, and Humility

Joseph Ratzinger, Doubt, and Humility

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

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God Desires All Men To Be Saved

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.”

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Progressive Revelation of the Divine Character

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...

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The Full Revelation of God

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...

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Joseph Ratzinger and the Purpose of Theology

Joseph Ratzinger and the Purpose of Theology

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

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Pluralism v. Inclusivism: Salvation and Diversity

Pluralism v. Inclusivism: Salvation and Diversity

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

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Stages of Revelation

Stages of Revelation

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

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God’s Gradual Revelation of Himself

God’s Gradual Revelation of Himself

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

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Errors in Scripture and Biblical Authority

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...

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Divine Condescension and Divine Love

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.

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Man as a Religious Being

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.”

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Our Capacity to Know God

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.”

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Week 6 of JASOC: Pilot Culture

Week 6 of JASOC: Pilot Culture

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

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To Know God as a Catholic

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...

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The Greatest Country as a Unifying Theme

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.

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Married Clergy: Progressive or Ultra-Traditional?

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...

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Love of Country as a Unifying Principle

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...

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COVID-19 Testing Delays and Government Incompetence

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...

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Effort and Faith in the Catholic Church

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...

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Faith and the Foundation of Belief

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...

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The Catechism as an Exposition of Divine Love

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.

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The Courage to Speak for Rule of 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.

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Proof-Texting and The Catechism

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.

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Catholic-Protestant Relations and the Catechism

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.

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The Year of COVID-19 and Hope for the Future

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.

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The Protestant Ideal as a Logical Fallacy

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.

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Catechesis and the Preservation of the 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.

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Evangelical Catholic Thought

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...

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Prologue to the Catechism of the Catholic Church

Prologue to the Catechism of the Catholic Church

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

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Getting Acquainted with the Latin Mass Crowd

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...

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Choose to Believe

Choose to Believe

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

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Disown Family Members Over Politics?

Disown Family Members Over Politics?

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

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We Must Not Yield on Due Process

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...

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Twitter Toxicity

Twitter Toxicity

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

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Sola Scriptura and the Journey Toward Catholicism

Sola Scriptura and the Journey Toward Catholicism

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

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What Is Forgiveness?

What Is Forgiveness?

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

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The Achievement of Chalcedon

The Achievement of Chalcedon

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

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Week 5 of JASOC: Experiencing Regret

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.

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The Mother of Jesus as a Named Source in John

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...

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Married Priests and De-Innovating the Catholic Church

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.

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Should Eastern Orthodoxy Exist in the West?

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.

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Hellenistic Christianity

Hellenistic Christianity

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

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Jesus as a Politician

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.

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Inspiration of Scripture

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.

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Week 4 of JASOC: Get In The Courtroom

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.

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Politics Is So Small

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...

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Atheism Provides a False Sense of Intelligence

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.

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The Insufferable Recovering Evangelical

The Insufferable Recovering Evangelical

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

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Fight the Cynic

Fight the Cynic

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

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The Military Doesn’t Trust Its Leadership

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.

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What is a Liberal?

What is a Liberal?

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

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Anti-Catholic Evangelicals

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...

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Waiting to Reopen

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.

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Sara Patterson Named 2020 Garrett Ham Scholar

Sara Patterson Named 2020 Garrett Ham Scholar

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

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Paper Writing and Basement Dwelling

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...

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

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...

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The Ivy League on Pass/Fail

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

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.

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Zoom, Yale, and the New Ivy League Experience

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.

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Angry All the Time in the Ivy League

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.

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COVID, Yale, and a Brave New World

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.

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The Strange Call for Military Justice Reform

The Strange Call for Military Justice Reform

Botched investigations Lack of...

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The Military and the Elite

The Military and the Elite

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

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Spring Break, Buckley, and the Coronavirus

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.

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The Ivy League Façade

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...

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Making Summer Plans at Yale

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

The Work of James Cone

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

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My Dinner With Rich Lowry

My Dinner With Rich Lowry

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

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Ivy League Buzzwords

Ivy League Buzzwords

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

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Opportunities at Yale Divinity School

Opportunities at Yale Divinity School

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

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Abortion and the Christian Left

Abortion and the Christian Left

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

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Grades at Yale and the End of the Semester

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...

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The Administrative Discharge Process – JASOC Week 3

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...

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Week 14 at YDS: Finals at Yale

Week 14 at YDS: Finals at Yale

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

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Week 13 at Yale: Discerning Vocation

Week 13 at Yale: Discerning Vocation

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

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Week 12 at Yale: The Harvard-Yale Game

Week 12 at Yale: The Harvard-Yale Game

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

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Week 11: Veterans Day at Yale

Week 11: Veterans Day at Yale

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

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Week 10 at Yale: Ph.D. Aspirations

Week 10 at Yale: Ph.D. Aspirations

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

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The Social Justice Warriors: Week 9 at Yale Divinity School

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...

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Week 8 at Yale: Cancel Culture Comes to YDS

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...

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Week 7 at Yale: Struggle with Scriptural Inerrancy

Week 7 at Yale: Struggle with Scriptural Inerrancy

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

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Week 6: Viewpoint Diversity at Yale Divinity School

Week 6: Viewpoint Diversity at Yale Divinity School

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

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Week 5: Conservatives at Yale Divinity

Week 5: Conservatives at Yale Divinity

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

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Week 4 at Yale: Appreciating The Authority of Community

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...

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

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...

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Week 2 of JASOC

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....

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Week 2: Opportunities for Spiritual Growth at Yale

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...

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Week 1 of the Master of Divinity Program at Yale

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...

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BTFO (Before the Fall Orientation) at Yale

BTFO (Before the Fall Orientation) at Yale

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

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Personal Statement from Yale Divinity Application

Personal Statement from Yale Divinity Application

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

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God and Man at Yale Divinity

God and Man at Yale Divinity

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

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Week 1 of the Judge Advocate Staff Officer Course

Week 1 of the Judge Advocate Staff Officer Course

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

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The Air Force JAG Corps

The Air Force JAG Corps

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

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Mattie Dodson Named 2019 Garrett Ham Scholar

Mattie Dodson Named 2019 Garrett Ham Scholar

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

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The Lost World of Genesis One

The Lost World of Genesis One

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

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Colton Sims and Cole Jester Named 2018 Garrett Ham Scholars

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.

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The Crucifixion of the Warrior God: A Bridge Too Far

The Crucifixion of the Warrior God: A Bridge Too Far

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

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Ouachita Baptist University Names Taylor Bascue the 2017 Garrett Ham Scholar

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.

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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...

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Cy Pres, Modification, and Dissolution of Nonprofits

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.

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Founding a Nonprofit Organization

Founding a Nonprofit Organization

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

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Nonprofit Organizations

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.

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

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...

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Protestants and Purgatory

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.

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Atonement Without Anselm

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

The 2015 Recipients of the Garrett Ham Scholarship

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

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How to Talk to Protestants about Scripture

How to Talk to Protestants about Scripture

!Scripture

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How to Talk to Protestants about Tradition

How to Talk to Protestants about Tradition

!tradition

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How to Talk to Protestants about Divine Revelation

How to Talk to Protestants about Divine Revelation

!divine...

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How to Talk to Protestants about Authority

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.

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How to Talk to Protestants

How to Talk to Protestants

!how to talk to...

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Does Everything Happen for a Reason?

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?

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Military Crimes

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.

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Christ and His Church

Christ and His Church

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

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Rules of Professional Conduct for Judge Advocates

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.

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Keep “X” in “Xmas”

Keep “X” in “Xmas”

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

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A Judge Advocate’s Professional Responsibility

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.

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The Court-Martial Process

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.

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Unlawful Command Influence

Unlawful Command Influence

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

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The Military Court System

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.

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Fighting Frivolous Appeals

Fighting Frivolous Appeals

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

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Introduction to Military Justice

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.

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Five Common Misconceptions Regarding the Hobby Lobby Decision

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.

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Stay Pending Appeal

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.

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Certified Questions of 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.

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The Mandate and Enforcing the Result of an Appeal

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.

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The Record on Appeal

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.

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Oral Arguments

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.

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Amici Curiae Briefs

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.

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Deadline to File the Record on Appeal

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.

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Deadlines For Filing an Appeal

Deadlines For Filing an Appeal

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

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How to File a Civil Appeal in Arkansas

How to File a Civil Appeal in Arkansas

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

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How to Secure a Copyright

How to Secure a Copyright

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

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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

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.

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Maintaining a Trademark

Maintaining a Trademark

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

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Do I Need a Lawyer to File a Trademark Application?

Do I Need a Lawyer to File a Trademark Application?

!need a lawyer to file a...

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Trademark v. Service Mark

Trademark v. Service Mark

!trademark v. service...

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Copyright Deposit Requirement

Copyright Deposit Requirement

!deposit...

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Copyrights and Foreign Works

Copyrights and Foreign Works

!foreign...

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How Long Does a Copyright Last?

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-...

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Week 10 of the Army JAG School

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.

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Welcome to the JAG Corps

Welcome to the JAG Corps

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

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Ultimate Football and Week 9 of JAG School

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.

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Administrative Law and Week 8 of JAG School

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.

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Copyright Fair Use

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)

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International Law and Week 7 of JAG School

International Law and Week 7 of JAG School

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

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Understanding Copyrights

Understanding Copyrights

!understanding...

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Brief the Commander and Week 6 of JAG School

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.

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Fiscal Law and Week 5 JAG School

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.

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

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.

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Military Justice and Week 3 of JAG School

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.

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Week 2 of the Army JAG School

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

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)

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

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

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

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.

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Rifle Marksmanship and Week 4 of DCC

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.

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Land Navigation and Week 3 of DCC

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)

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)

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

Army JAG Initial Training

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

· 5 min read
The Notice of Appeal

The Notice of Appeal

!notice of...

· 5 min read
The Petition For Review

The Petition For Review

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

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

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

!arkansas supreme...

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Quoted By Credit.com

Quoted By Credit.com

!Credit Cards

· 5 min read
The Basis for a Trademark Application

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

After Filing Your Trademark Application

!trademark...

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Intellectual Property

Intellectual Property

!intellectual...

· 5 min read
Registering Your Trademark

Registering Your Trademark

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

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Availability of Civil Appeals in Arkansas

Availability of Civil Appeals in Arkansas

!civil appeals

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Agency Relationships

Agency Relationships

!agency...

· 5 min read
Agent Liability to a Third Party

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.

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The S Corporation

The S Corporation

[![S...

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Piercing the Corporate Veil

Piercing the Corporate Veil

!piercing the corporate...

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Partnership Tax Terms

Partnership Tax Terms

!partnership tax...

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The Benefits of Partnership Taxation

The Benefits of Partnership Taxation

!partnership...

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The Business Judgment Rule

The Business Judgment Rule

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

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Fiduciary Duties of an Agent

Fiduciary Duties of an Agent

!duties of an...

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Directors’ Duty of Loyalty

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.

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Irrevocable Agencies

Irrevocable Agencies

!irrevocable agencies

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Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs)

Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs)

!limited liability...

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Limited Partnerships (LPs)

Limited Partnerships (LPs)

!limited...

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The Shareholder Derivative Suit

The Shareholder Derivative Suit

!shareholder derivative...

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Shareholders and Directors

Shareholders and Directors

!shareholders and...

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Creating and Terminating an Agency Relationship

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.

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

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

Dividends

!Dividends

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Power of Appointment

Power of Appointment

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

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Who Has the Right to Receive Trust Distributions?

Who Has the Right to Receive Trust Distributions?

[![trust...

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Trust Modification and Termination

Trust Modification and Termination

[![trust...

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Charitable Trusts

Charitable Trusts

!charitable trusts

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The Corporation

The Corporation

!corporation

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The Role of the Lawyer in Business

The Role of the Lawyer in Business

!Serious...

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Creating a Trust

Creating a Trust

!creating a trust

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Using a Family Limited Partnership to Lower Estate Tax Liabilities

Using a Family Limited Partnership to Lower Estate Tax Liabilities

!Family Limited Partnership to Lower Estate...

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The Family Limited Partnership as an Innovative Estate-Planning Tool

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.

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When an Heir Predeceases the Testator

When an Heir Predeceases the Testator

[![heir...

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Can Your Employer Stop You From Taking a Holiday?

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...

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Introduction to Trusts

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.

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Duties of a Trustee of a Trust

Duties of a Trustee of a Trust

!Duties of a...

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The Video Will

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.

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Abatement and Ademption: Property Changes and Your Kids’ Inheritance

Abatement and Ademption: Property Changes and Your Kids’ Inheritance

!abatement

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The Arkansas Probate Process

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...

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Differences in UK and US Business 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...

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Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust (ILIT)

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

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Grounds to Contest a Will

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

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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

The No Contest Clause

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

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Probate Public Notice and the Nonclaim Statute

Probate Public Notice and the Nonclaim Statute

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

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Small Estate Probate

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.

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The Problem of the Dead Hand

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.

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Revoking a Will

Revoking a Will

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

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Ambiguous Wills

Ambiguous Wills

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

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Issues of Inheritance Planning

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

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Parts of a Will

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.

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Bars to Inheritance

Bars to Inheritance

!1780 quadruple murder in...

· 5 min read
Charitable Remainder Unitrust

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.

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Planning with Life Insurance

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...

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Filing for Divorce and the Gray Zone of Inheritance

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

Trusts and Probate

!Black & White...

· 5 min read
Qualified Personal Residence Trust (QPRT)

Qualified Personal Residence Trust (QPRT)

!A. H. Allyn...

· 5 min read
GRATs and GRUTs

GRATs and GRUTs

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

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Life Insurance

Life Insurance

!Universal Life Insurance Company...

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Grantor Retained Income Trusts (GRITs)

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)

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Planned Giving Strategies

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

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.

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Giving Gifts of Partial Interests to Charity

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.

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Noncash Gifts to Charity

Noncash Gifts to Charity

!1990 Chevrolet Beretta Indy 500 Pace...

· 5 min read
Charitable Deductions

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.

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Understanding the “Skip Person”

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

Generation-Skipping Transfer Tax

!Hitting the links

· 5 min read
Uniform Transfer to Minors Act

Uniform Transfer to Minors Act

!The Believer's...

· 5 min read
Grantor Trusts

Grantor Trusts

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

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529 Plans

529 Plans

!Autumn night in Harvard...

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The Crummey Trust

The Crummey Trust

!grandchildren

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Qualified Domestic Trust (QDOT)

Qualified Domestic Trust (QDOT)

!Overholser...

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Irrevocable Living Trusts

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.

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Adult Guardianship

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.

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Qualified Terminable Interest Property (QTIP) Trust

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)

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Creditors and Tenancy By The Entirety

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

HIPAA

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

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The Living Will

The Living Will

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

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The Holographic Will

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...

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The Durable Power of Attorney

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

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

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

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

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

Executing a Will in Arkansas

!Last Will And...

· 5 min read
Your Will and Residuary Estate

Your Will and Residuary Estate

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

· 5 min read
The Arkansas Anti-Lapse Statute

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NFA Gun Registration Requirements

!prison guard...

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

Protecting Your Business With a Family Limited Partnership

!EU Family...

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

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

!Last Will And...

· 5 min read
Gun Trusts

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

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

Garrett Ham Appears on the 4029 Evening News

[![Power...

· 5 min read
Ouachita Grads Make a Difference

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

The Limited Liability Company (LLC) Part 2

!Wood Building - Van...

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

The Limited Liability Company (LLC) Part 1

!Small Business Saturday, after Edward...

· 5 min read
Business Forms to Avoid

Business Forms to Avoid

!Mom & Pop's...

· 5 min read
Parents Dying Without a Will

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?

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

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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