Challenges to questions of fact in interlocutory petition for relief seeking qualified immunity do not remove jurisdiction where counsel stipulates to the facts at issue during spoken arguments.
Qualified immunity for supervisory liability of detainee rape, as a general prohibition on deliberate indifference to sexual abuse didn't sufficiently prohibit supervision of a facility where male guards encountered female prisoners outside the view of security cameras.
https://www.ca10.uscourts.gov/opinions/17/17-5023.pdf
Since 2011. An occasional commonplacing of the U.S. Circuit Courts of Appeal.
Neither an authoritative statement of the law nor legal advice. Quick work.
Eighth Circuit: Mary Brazil v. Arkansas Dept of Human Service
In a suit alleging discrimination in employment practices, a material change in the plaintiff's working situation moots a claim of retaliation that seeks injunctive relief where there is only a speculative possibility that the employee might be transferred back to her old position.
http://media.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/18/06/172229P.pdf
http://media.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/18/06/172229P.pdf
Eighth Circuit: Leslie Grussing v. Orthopedic and Sports Medicine
No error in trial court's refusal to allow questioning of an expert on a line of inquiry that had been established by another witness.
In a diversity action, federal law governs the review of counsel statements in closing arguments.
Given curative instruction, deft counsel's mis-characterization of the burden of proof was not plainly injurious.
http://media.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/18/06/172228P.pdf
In a diversity action, federal law governs the review of counsel statements in closing arguments.
Given curative instruction, deft counsel's mis-characterization of the burden of proof was not plainly injurious.
http://media.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/18/06/172228P.pdf
Eighth Circuit: Missourians for Fiscal, etc. v. James Klahr
State law prohibiting the formation of political committees after 30 days before an election is subject to strict scrutiny, as the law speaks to formation, a precondition for speech, and not disclosure.
The law is overbroad, as citizens might have cause to speak within the prohibited window, there are subsequent reporting requirements closer to the election, and past practice of the agency in merely imposing a $1,000 fine does not save the act.
http://media.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/18/06/171314P.pdf
The law is overbroad, as citizens might have cause to speak within the prohibited window, there are subsequent reporting requirements closer to the election, and past practice of the agency in merely imposing a $1,000 fine does not save the act.
http://media.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/18/06/171314P.pdf
Eighth Circuit: In re Sealed Case
Where a court varies downward from a statutory maximum which is beneath the published guidelines range and the sentence is later further reduced on the government's motion, the sentence is not sufficiently based on the published range to merit relief after subsequent changes to that range.
http://media.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/18/06/164456P.pdf
http://media.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/18/06/164456P.pdf
Seventh Circuit: USA v. Todd Dyer
Where deft challenges plea at trial by asserting grounds of innocence, an appellate challenge to the plea on other grounds is reviewed for plain error.
No plain error in magistrate's acceptance of plea where deft made one or two word answers in colloquy and court did not inquire into possible bipolar disorder.
http://media.ca7.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/rssExec.pl?Submit=Display&Path=Y2018/D06-13/C:17-1776:J:PerCuriam:aut:T:fnOp:N:2169817:S:0
No plain error in magistrate's acceptance of plea where deft made one or two word answers in colloquy and court did not inquire into possible bipolar disorder.
http://media.ca7.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/rssExec.pl?Submit=Display&Path=Y2018/D06-13/C:17-1776:J:PerCuriam:aut:T:fnOp:N:2169817:S:0
Sixth Circuit: Acosta v. Cathedral Buffet Inc.
Following reversal and remand, the appellate court should refrain from granting leave to file a motion at the Circuit level for fees under the statute; the District Court is better positioned to judge the matter.
http://www.opn.ca6.uscourts.gov/opinions.pdf/18a0112p-06.pdf
http://www.opn.ca6.uscourts.gov/opinions.pdf/18a0112p-06.pdf
Fifth Circuit: Innova Hospital San Antonio LP v. Blue Cross & Blue Shield
ERISA action need not identify the specific language of every plan provision at issue to state a claim, so long as the pleading is not overly conclusory; the suit might be resolved using representative terms.
Under state law, similar analysis applied to the claim for breach of contract.
As a suit for monetary damages is possible, a suit for breach of fiduciary duty is barred by the statute and precedent.
No error in denial of leave to amend second amended complaint, as the request did not discuss the legal standard for untimely leave to amend.
http://www.ca5.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/14/14-11300-CV0.pdf
Under state law, similar analysis applied to the claim for breach of contract.
As a suit for monetary damages is possible, a suit for breach of fiduciary duty is barred by the statute and precedent.
No error in denial of leave to amend second amended complaint, as the request did not discuss the legal standard for untimely leave to amend.
http://www.ca5.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/14/14-11300-CV0.pdf
Fifth Circuit: USA v. Richard Evans
No plain error in conviction where the procedures of the medical practice were the subject of testimony and the link to the individual cases in the indictment was merely the patients' medical files.
Finder of fact might reasonably have found the non-narcotics elements of the medical practice to be cookie-cutter and superficial cover for the actual work of the practice.
Even absent a showing as to the amount of "clean money" in a commingled account, no plain error in the aggregation of all withdrawals in computing the total amount of withdrawals to determine if the amount withdrawn must necessarily have included the criminal proceeds.
No plain error in mail fraud conviction where finder of fact might have found an implied promise in the patient communications of a proper standard of care.
Witness' opinion of illicit nature of practice sufficiently based in commonsensical inference.
Arguendo, if Confrontation Clause was violated by not allowing deft to cross after prosecution assertion in direct that witness (who had been notified that she was a target of an investigation) was not a suspect; testimony was cumulative.
http://www.ca5.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/17/17-20159-CR0.pdf
Finder of fact might reasonably have found the non-narcotics elements of the medical practice to be cookie-cutter and superficial cover for the actual work of the practice.
Even absent a showing as to the amount of "clean money" in a commingled account, no plain error in the aggregation of all withdrawals in computing the total amount of withdrawals to determine if the amount withdrawn must necessarily have included the criminal proceeds.
No plain error in mail fraud conviction where finder of fact might have found an implied promise in the patient communications of a proper standard of care.
Witness' opinion of illicit nature of practice sufficiently based in commonsensical inference.
Arguendo, if Confrontation Clause was violated by not allowing deft to cross after prosecution assertion in direct that witness (who had been notified that she was a target of an investigation) was not a suspect; testimony was cumulative.
http://www.ca5.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/17/17-20159-CR0.pdf
Third Circuit: Marie Gillispie v. Regionalcare Hospital Partners
Whistleblower who merely objected in internal meetings to non-reporting of facts already known to the decisionmakers does not qualify for the protections of the federal statute.
State common-law employment protections are preempted by the state whistleblower statute.
http://www2.ca3.uscourts.gov/opinarch/164307p.pdf
State common-law employment protections are preempted by the state whistleblower statute.
http://www2.ca3.uscourts.gov/opinarch/164307p.pdf
Second Circuit: Edrei v. Bratton
A 14th Amendment S1983 action alleging excessive force in the use of acoustic weapons states a claim where the force is intentionally applied and the officer is aware of its unreasonable use, given lack of exigency, proportionality of response, and mitigation.
http://www.ca2.uscourts.gov/decisions/isysquery/594b7f87-3c10-48a4-8c8c-42b1d446d0a8/1/doc/17-2065_opn.pdf#xml=http://www.ca2.uscourts.gov/decisions/isysquery/594b7f87-3c10-48a4-8c8c-42b1d446d0a8/1/hilite/
http://www.ca2.uscourts.gov/decisions/isysquery/594b7f87-3c10-48a4-8c8c-42b1d446d0a8/1/doc/17-2065_opn.pdf#xml=http://www.ca2.uscourts.gov/decisions/isysquery/594b7f87-3c10-48a4-8c8c-42b1d446d0a8/1/hilite/
Second Circuit: ING Bank N.V. v. M/V TEMARA
A statutory maritime lien arises by operation of law when a vessel contracts for covered supplies and the supplies are delivered pursuant to the contract, regardless of whether the eventual provision occurred through a chain of intermediaries.
The subcontractor is operating pursuant to another's agreement with the party to the contract with the vessel, and therefore the subcontractor cannot assert a lien against the vessel.
Equitable remedies such as unjust enrichment are not a basis for a judgment against the vessel, as the lien is an in rem action.
Error for the District Court to issue a sua sponte summary judgment absent notice to parties where a reasonable possibility existed of a factual dispute.
http://www.ca2.uscourts.gov/decisions/isysquery/594b7f87-3c10-48a4-8c8c-42b1d446d0a8/2/doc/16-3923_opn.pdf#xml=http://www.ca2.uscourts.gov/decisions/isysquery/594b7f87-3c10-48a4-8c8c-42b1d446d0a8/2/hilite/
The subcontractor is operating pursuant to another's agreement with the party to the contract with the vessel, and therefore the subcontractor cannot assert a lien against the vessel.
Equitable remedies such as unjust enrichment are not a basis for a judgment against the vessel, as the lien is an in rem action.
Error for the District Court to issue a sua sponte summary judgment absent notice to parties where a reasonable possibility existed of a factual dispute.
http://www.ca2.uscourts.gov/decisions/isysquery/594b7f87-3c10-48a4-8c8c-42b1d446d0a8/2/doc/16-3923_opn.pdf#xml=http://www.ca2.uscourts.gov/decisions/isysquery/594b7f87-3c10-48a4-8c8c-42b1d446d0a8/2/hilite/
Second Circuit: U.S. v. Daugerdas
Although, since the interest attached at the time of the offense, the government has a superior claim to the forfeited funds, if the recipient of a gratuitous transfer can allege facts sufficient to infer that the transfer preceded the criminal acts, Due Process and the statute both allow the third party, despite the issues resolved in the criminal action, to claim a superior interest, since commingling of funds would bar the relation-back of the government's interest.
"Pled."
http://www.ca2.uscourts.gov/decisions/isysquery/594b7f87-3c10-48a4-8c8c-42b1d446d0a8/3/doc/17-898_opn.pdf#xml=http://www.ca2.uscourts.gov/decisions/isysquery/594b7f87-3c10-48a4-8c8c-42b1d446d0a8/3/hilite/
"Pled."
http://www.ca2.uscourts.gov/decisions/isysquery/594b7f87-3c10-48a4-8c8c-42b1d446d0a8/3/doc/17-898_opn.pdf#xml=http://www.ca2.uscourts.gov/decisions/isysquery/594b7f87-3c10-48a4-8c8c-42b1d446d0a8/3/hilite/
Eleventh Circuit: Sandra Slater v. U.S. Steel Corporation
Maintenance of inconsistent positions in civil litigation (e.g., not disclosing a suit for damages in a bankruptcy litigation) is not in itself making a sham of the judicial system; the court, when making such a determination, must consider the plaintiff/petitioner's sophistication and the conduct of the suit.
11.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/files/201215548.op2.pdf
11.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/files/201215548.op2.pdf
Eleventh Circuit: US v. Ramon Cobena Duenas
Sufficient evidence for a courier's conviction for counterfeiting conspiracy under the prudent smuggler doctrine where the prosecution demonstrates a plenitude of contacts among the organization, the courier evinces an awareness of the unlawful nature of the operation, and the courier's actions are critical to the success of the operation.
http://media.ca11.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/files/201710509.pdf
http://media.ca11.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/files/201710509.pdf
Federal Circuit: Medtronic, Inc. v. Barry
Patent -- substantial evidence.
etc, etc.
http://www.cafc.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/opinions-orders/17-1169.Opinion.6-8-2018.1.pdf
etc, etc.
http://www.cafc.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/opinions-orders/17-1169.Opinion.6-8-2018.1.pdf
Federal Circuit: Stone Baskets LLC v. Cook Medical LLC
No abuse of discretion in denial of fees in patent litigation, etc, etc.
http://www.cafc.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/opinions-orders/17-2330.Opinion.6-8-2018.1.pdf
http://www.cafc.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/opinions-orders/17-2330.Opinion.6-8-2018.1.pdf
Federal Circuit: Williams v. MSPB
Agency regulation holding a minimal period of unemployment when transferring between jobs is sufficient to constitute a break in employment for purposes of qualifying for protections of judicial review is a reasonable one, and as it's specific, it's not subject to the anti-parroting canon.
When an agency does not inform an employee of the loss of appeal rights from a transfer, those appeal rights can't later be grated by the Board when they are outside of the statutory jurisdiction of the Board.
No Due Process rights, as the boundaries of the right are coterminous with the boundaries of the statute.
http://www.cafc.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/opinions-orders/17-1535.Opinion.6-7-2018.1.pdf
When an agency does not inform an employee of the loss of appeal rights from a transfer, those appeal rights can't later be grated by the Board when they are outside of the statutory jurisdiction of the Board.
No Due Process rights, as the boundaries of the right are coterminous with the boundaries of the statute.
http://www.cafc.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/opinions-orders/17-1535.Opinion.6-7-2018.1.pdf
Federal Circuit: Chicago Coating Company v. US
As the deeds of conveyance to the railway were in quitclaim form, a presumption of conveyance in fee simple arises. Reference in one case to a right of way is insufficient to overcome this presumption, as it was likely used to identify the existing easement that ran across the property to be conveyed. Right of re-entry doesn't argue either way, but a reverter in the second deed further reinforces the conveyance in fee simple. Etc, etc.
Carlos Quinteros-Cisneros v. Jefferson B. Sessions III
As state law distinguishes sentencing enhancements from aggravating circumstances and requires sentencing enhancements to be included in the charge, an element of a sentencing enhancement can make the conviction a predicate felony in an immigration removal proceeding.
As sexual abuse of a minor is per se abusive, the conviction is a valid predicate as a crime of abuse.
http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2018/06/11/13-72632.pdf
As sexual abuse of a minor is per se abusive, the conviction is a valid predicate as a crime of abuse.
http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2018/06/11/13-72632.pdf
Ninth Circuit: Patricia Campbell v. EDU-HI
Employer's loss of a performance report is not, by itself, an adverse employment action.
Investigation of employee that did not affect her working conditions was not an adverse employment action; the suggestion that others were placed on paid leave while under investigation did not make the continued conditions of employment an adverse action.
Denial of transfer not adverse, since application was untimely.
Music and dance teacher did not establish that classes other than remedial math were available to teach; the assignment therefore was not an adverse one.
Lack of comparators for most claims.
Claim of hostile work environment from student animus is defeated by district's incremental and timely response.
Employer's speech in workplace reasonable.
As no adverse action, no retaliation; actions had sufficient neutral justification.
Standards for Title VII claim identical to Title IX claim.
http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2018/06/11/15-15939.pdf
Investigation of employee that did not affect her working conditions was not an adverse employment action; the suggestion that others were placed on paid leave while under investigation did not make the continued conditions of employment an adverse action.
Denial of transfer not adverse, since application was untimely.
Music and dance teacher did not establish that classes other than remedial math were available to teach; the assignment therefore was not an adverse one.
Lack of comparators for most claims.
Claim of hostile work environment from student animus is defeated by district's incremental and timely response.
Employer's speech in workplace reasonable.
As no adverse action, no retaliation; actions had sufficient neutral justification.
Standards for Title VII claim identical to Title IX claim.
http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2018/06/11/15-15939.pdf
Ninth Circuit: US v. Paul Swallow
Sentencing determination that the deft's tennis shoes were dangerous weapons when used to stomp on the victim's head was not an abuse of discretion.
Error, though, to hold that the crime was committed for something of value when the deft had attacked the victim after not receiving the promised drugs in exchange for his wife's $10.
http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2018/06/11/16-30224.pdf
Error, though, to hold that the crime was committed for something of value when the deft had attacked the victim after not receiving the promised drugs in exchange for his wife's $10.
http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2018/06/11/16-30224.pdf
Ninth Circuit: April Bain v. California Teachers Ass'n
Where the original parties to the suit challenging union fees leave covered employment during the pendency of the appeal and can therefore no longer receive the sought equitable and injunctive relief, the case is moot; it cannot be converted into an action for damages, and an organizational plaintiff cannot be joined to preserve standing.
The remedy is dismissal without a vacatur of the earlier decision on the merits.
http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2018/06/11/16-55768.pdf
The remedy is dismissal without a vacatur of the earlier decision on the merits.
http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2018/06/11/16-55768.pdf
Ninth Circuit: Richard Vos v. City of Newport Beach
Given the perimeter of police officers with guns, tasers, and dogs, the necessity of killing the gentleman running towards the exit of the 7-11 presents a genuine issue of disputed fact for trial.
Qualified immunity for officers, as circuit precedent as to the appropriate bounds of behavior when dealing with odd, threatening people carrying sharp things was a bit unclear; question of municipal liability remanded.
As the ADA claim of lack of accommodation isn't dispelled by the fact that the officers didn't initiate the confrontation, the issue of reasonable accommodation presents a question for trial.
State tort definition of negligence reasonableness is distinct from Fourth Amendment reasonableness.
Dissent: Fact of mental illness in the suspect shouldn't change the calculus on the use of deadly force in an exigent situation.
http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2018/06/11/16-56791.pdf
Qualified immunity for officers, as circuit precedent as to the appropriate bounds of behavior when dealing with odd, threatening people carrying sharp things was a bit unclear; question of municipal liability remanded.
As the ADA claim of lack of accommodation isn't dispelled by the fact that the officers didn't initiate the confrontation, the issue of reasonable accommodation presents a question for trial.
State tort definition of negligence reasonableness is distinct from Fourth Amendment reasonableness.
Dissent: Fact of mental illness in the suspect shouldn't change the calculus on the use of deadly force in an exigent situation.
http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2018/06/11/16-56791.pdf
Eighth Circuit: Porfirio Rodriguez v. Wal-Mart Stores, Inc
In an ADA action, occasional delays in a good-faith negotiation are not a basis for equitable estoppel against deft's argument that the agency filing required by the statute wasn't timely.
http://media.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/18/06/171737P.pdf
http://media.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/18/06/171737P.pdf
Eighth Circuit: Henry Miranda v. Jefferson Sessions, III
For purposes of immigration removal, the question of whether a particular group is a cognizable social group under the statute is a question of law.
Former taxi drivers who witnessed a murder and were subsequently threatened by a gang do not constitute such a group.
http://media.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/18/06/171430P.pdf
Former taxi drivers who witnessed a murder and were subsequently threatened by a gang do not constitute such a group.
http://media.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/18/06/171430P.pdf
Eighth Circuit: James Dean v. Burdette Searcey
Holding of prior panel is binding circuit precedent, in addition to law of the case.
Where the principal agent in the theory of municipal liability is exonerated at trial, municipality may still be liable under the theory that the principal actor was exonerated in his functional role, but held to be culpable in his managerial and policymaking role.
Sufficient evidence to support earlier interlocutory holdings on qualified immunity.
Statements and visual aids in opening and closing that referenced innocence of plaintiffs were not unduly prejudicial.
No error in reckless investigation jury instruction that referenced reckless gathering of unreliable evidence, as it does not suggest the lesser threshold of negligence.
"Pled."
http://media.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/18/06/164059P.pdf
Where the principal agent in the theory of municipal liability is exonerated at trial, municipality may still be liable under the theory that the principal actor was exonerated in his functional role, but held to be culpable in his managerial and policymaking role.
Sufficient evidence to support earlier interlocutory holdings on qualified immunity.
Statements and visual aids in opening and closing that referenced innocence of plaintiffs were not unduly prejudicial.
No error in reckless investigation jury instruction that referenced reckless gathering of unreliable evidence, as it does not suggest the lesser threshold of negligence.
"Pled."
http://media.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/18/06/164059P.pdf
Seventh Circuit: Village of Barrington, IL v. STB
Dicta: Appeal of Board's denial of motion to reconsider as final agency action does not necessarily incorporate earlier decisions, especially when the earlier decisions are not apart of the appellate record.
Appeal of material error which dates to initial board action cannot be appealed by challenging subsequent denials to reconsider.
New evidence raised at motions to reconsider was either available to parties earlier or raised in earlier proceedings.
http://media.ca7.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/rssExec.pl?Submit=Display&Path=Y2018/D06-11/C:17-3586:J:Flaum:aut:T:fnOp:N:2168607:S:0
Appeal of material error which dates to initial board action cannot be appealed by challenging subsequent denials to reconsider.
New evidence raised at motions to reconsider was either available to parties earlier or raised in earlier proceedings.
http://media.ca7.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/rssExec.pl?Submit=Display&Path=Y2018/D06-11/C:17-3586:J:Flaum:aut:T:fnOp:N:2168607:S:0
Sixth Circuit: Amir Shabo v. Jefferson B. Sessions, III
Since agency removal order factual finding that there was an insufficient likelihood of torture after deportation presents neither an issue of law nor one of constitutional rights, the court does not have jurisdiction over the appeal to the agency's parallel holding that the conditions in the other country hadn't changed.
http://www.opn.ca6.uscourts.gov/opinions.pdf/18a0111p-06.pdf
http://www.opn.ca6.uscourts.gov/opinions.pdf/18a0111p-06.pdf
Sixth Circuit: U.S. ex rel. Marjorie Prather v. Brookdale Senior Living Cmty., et al. - Middle District of Tennessee at Nashville
In a False Claims Act suit, a time factor is material where the governing statute references a regulation that, in the process of defining the list of terms within the referenced regulation, subsequently incorporates the timing factor.
Past practice is not dispositive at the motion-to-dismiss stage where there is no showing that the government was aware of the factor.
Training and instruction publications can help to establish that a certain factor goes to the essence of the bargain.
Sufficient proof of scienter for trial where deft instructed cursory review, was advised of requirements, and implicitly referenced the violation in internal emails.
http://www.opn.ca6.uscourts.gov/opinions.pdf/18a0110p-06.pdf
Past practice is not dispositive at the motion-to-dismiss stage where there is no showing that the government was aware of the factor.
Training and instruction publications can help to establish that a certain factor goes to the essence of the bargain.
Sufficient proof of scienter for trial where deft instructed cursory review, was advised of requirements, and implicitly referenced the violation in internal emails.
http://www.opn.ca6.uscourts.gov/opinions.pdf/18a0110p-06.pdf
Fifth Circuit: Kimberly Huckaba v. Ref-Chem, L.P.
Under state contract law which looks to the intent of the parties, explicit statement in the arbitration agreement that it was to be signed prior to being given effect or modified meant that omission of the drafters signature meant that there was no contract.
http://www.ca5.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/17/17-50341-CV0.pdf
http://www.ca5.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/17/17-50341-CV0.pdf
Fourth Circuit:Sade Garnett v. Remedi SeniorCare of Virginia
Employer not liable for workplace defamation since it wasn't in the employer's interests, wasn't condoned by the employer, and it was outside the scope of the tortfeasor's employment; there are literally millions of workplace interactions.
http://www.ca4.uscourts.gov/opinions/171890.P.pdf
http://www.ca4.uscourts.gov/opinions/171890.P.pdf
Eleventh Circuit: Carmina R. Comparelli, et al v. Republica Bolivariana De Venezuela, et al
Claim captioned as an ATS claim but arising under FISA is properly construed as a FISA claim.
As FISA expropriation suits require factual correctness to state a claim, courts can pierce the pleadings.
Where a state distinguishes between nationals and foreigners among its permanent residents, the seizure does not implicate the domestic takings exception to FISA expropriation claims; in the case of dual nationals, the inquiry into residence is fact-specific.
An effects-based nexus under the commercial exception to FISA counters the presumption against extraterritoriality.
http://media.ca11.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/files/201616748.pdf
As FISA expropriation suits require factual correctness to state a claim, courts can pierce the pleadings.
Where a state distinguishes between nationals and foreigners among its permanent residents, the seizure does not implicate the domestic takings exception to FISA expropriation claims; in the case of dual nationals, the inquiry into residence is fact-specific.
An effects-based nexus under the commercial exception to FISA counters the presumption against extraterritoriality.
http://media.ca11.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/files/201616748.pdf
Eleventh Circuit: Jyll Brink v. Raymond James & Associates, Inc.
Company's undisclosed profit margin within the transaction fee for a covered security was not a material misrepresentation bearing on the decision to purchase the security; a class action suit for redress is therefore not barred from the state courts by federal securities law.
http://media.ca11.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/files/201614144.pdf
http://media.ca11.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/files/201614144.pdf
Eleventh Circuit: USA v. Delroy Anthony McLean
For purposes of the statute protecting judges from impedance, interference, or intimidation, an immigration judge is a judicial officer who exercises the authority of the Attorney General, and therefore a judicial officer of the United States.
http://media.ca11.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/files/201710741.pdf
http://media.ca11.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/files/201710741.pdf
DC Circuit: Rachel Fraenkel v. Islamic Republic of Iran
District court's reduction of damages in a FISA suit seeking solatium (consolation) damages against killers of family member because the victims were targeted on the basis of foreign citizenship was an abuse of discretion. The appropriate amount, though, is still a matter of judicial discretion.
Similarly, error to reduce damages for assumption of risk, given that the purpose of the statute is to reduce terrorism, and the victims' conduct was reasonable.
https://www.cadc.uscourts.gov/internet/opinions.nsf/C60AD39892C8E38A852582A600521EC3/$file/17-7100-1735019.pdf
Similarly, error to reduce damages for assumption of risk, given that the purpose of the statute is to reduce terrorism, and the victims' conduct was reasonable.
https://www.cadc.uscourts.gov/internet/opinions.nsf/C60AD39892C8E38A852582A600521EC3/$file/17-7100-1735019.pdf
DC Circuit: Washington Alliance of Technology Workers v. DHS
Trade group has competitor standing to challenge agency decision on student visas.
A claim that the agency exceeded statutory authority states a claim even absent factual allegations.
Under local rules, a party can rest on its claim in response to a motion to dismiss if the initial filing stated a plausible claim for relief.
Certain administrative challenges are not redressible.
https://www.cadc.uscourts.gov/internet/opinions.nsf/C1913070B98EC073852582A600521EA7/$file/17-5110-1735010.pdf
A claim that the agency exceeded statutory authority states a claim even absent factual allegations.
Under local rules, a party can rest on its claim in response to a motion to dismiss if the initial filing stated a plausible claim for relief.
Certain administrative challenges are not redressible.
https://www.cadc.uscourts.gov/internet/opinions.nsf/C1913070B98EC073852582A600521EA7/$file/17-5110-1735010.pdf
DC Circuit: Mercy Hospital, Inc. v. Alex M. Azar II
Statutory bar on judicial review of prospective payment rates bars review of "step-two" rates and any formulae inextricably intertwined.
https://www.cadc.uscourts.gov/internet/opinions.nsf/0A1B7A5BDA2046B4852582A600521E8C/$file/16-5267-1734989.pdf
https://www.cadc.uscourts.gov/internet/opinions.nsf/0A1B7A5BDA2046B4852582A600521E8C/$file/16-5267-1734989.pdf
National Environmental Development Association's Clean Air Project v. EPA
As the statute unambiguously refers to regional inconsistencies from the delegation of the Administrator's powers, and moreover, implementing judicially-created inconsistencies is a reasonable resolution of the (un)ambiguity, no error in agency's inconsistent remedies implemented in response to bifurcated judicial review.
https://www.cadc.uscourts.gov/internet/opinions.nsf/C030B5F7DB87A8DB852582A600521E70/$file/16-1344-1734993.pdf
https://www.cadc.uscourts.gov/internet/opinions.nsf/C030B5F7DB87A8DB852582A600521E70/$file/16-1344-1734993.pdf
DC Circuit: ESI Energy, LLC v. FERC
Agency did not err when, on remand, it discounted extrinsic evidence that the court had held to be ambiguous.
Relevant date for assigning cost responsibility for a power network upgrade might reasonably be the date of the execution of the agreement to join the network.
https://www.cadc.uscourts.gov/internet/opinions.nsf/C8F18CF446B7250D852582A600522CF6/$file/16-1261.pdf
Relevant date for assigning cost responsibility for a power network upgrade might reasonably be the date of the execution of the agreement to join the network.
https://www.cadc.uscourts.gov/internet/opinions.nsf/C8F18CF446B7250D852582A600522CF6/$file/16-1261.pdf
DC Circuit: Colorado Fire Sprinkler, Inc. v. NLRB
Board's determination that a series of CBA recitations of exclusive representation was sufficient to establish sufficient employee support for the union when initially certified pre-hire was insufficiently reasoned and an abuse of discretion.
https://www.cadc.uscourts.gov/internet/opinions.nsf/C8F18CF446B7250D852582A600522CF6/$file/16-1261.pdf
https://www.cadc.uscourts.gov/internet/opinions.nsf/C8F18CF446B7250D852582A600522CF6/$file/16-1261.pdf
DC Circuit: US v. Benjamin Grey
Absent a limiting instruction, possibly prejudicial testimony as to previous civil judgment(s?) was inadmissible hearsay and plain error -- but insufficient for reversal.
Prior bad acts were sufficiently contemporaneous to be probative of intent as to the charged crimes.
No need to remand to develop ineffective assistance claim, given evidence of guilt.
https://www.cadc.uscourts.gov/internet/opinions.nsf/7D8985C55A9B312B852582A60052550E/$file/14-3003.pdf
Prior bad acts were sufficiently contemporaneous to be probative of intent as to the charged crimes.
No need to remand to develop ineffective assistance claim, given evidence of guilt.
https://www.cadc.uscourts.gov/internet/opinions.nsf/7D8985C55A9B312B852582A60052550E/$file/14-3003.pdf
Tenth Circuit: United States v. Melgar-Cabrera
Federal statute providing for incarceration for murder with a firearm is a separate offense, not a sentencing enhancement, given post-Apprendi jurisprudence.
Statute requiring the element of physical force in the commission of a felony implies the requirement of violent force.
Offensive touching can be sufficient force for Hobbs Act robbery.
Indirect force can be a use of physical force under the statute.
https://www.ca10.uscourts.gov/opinions/16/16-2018.pdf
Statute requiring the element of physical force in the commission of a felony implies the requirement of violent force.
Offensive touching can be sufficient force for Hobbs Act robbery.
Indirect force can be a use of physical force under the statute.
https://www.ca10.uscourts.gov/opinions/16/16-2018.pdf
Tenth Circuit: Utah Republican Party v. Cox
Denial of en banc.
Concur from CJ: Supreme Court should review. Judicial regulation of political primaries imperils associational rights and substantive ends.
https://www.ca10.uscourts.gov/opinions/16/16-4091.pdf
Concur from CJ: Supreme Court should review. Judicial regulation of political primaries imperils associational rights and substantive ends.
https://www.ca10.uscourts.gov/opinions/16/16-4091.pdf
Ninth Circuit: US v. Hans Elding
State assault with a deadly weapon statute is a valid predicate crime of violence, as the requirement that the victim's immediate fear of reasonable bodily harm implies a use or threatened use of physical force.
As state robbery statute can be violated with violence to property, it isn't a categorical predicate crime of violence, and it doesn't match the generic definitions of robbery and extortion.
Questions about advisory sentencing guidelines are addressed under the rule of lenity.
As there is no requirement that the force used be violent, the state extortion statute isn't a predicate crime of violence.
http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2018/06/08/16-10457.pdf
As state robbery statute can be violated with violence to property, it isn't a categorical predicate crime of violence, and it doesn't match the generic definitions of robbery and extortion.
Questions about advisory sentencing guidelines are addressed under the rule of lenity.
As there is no requirement that the force used be violent, the state extortion statute isn't a predicate crime of violence.
http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2018/06/08/16-10457.pdf
Ninth Circuit: NLRB v. Ironworkers Local 433
First Amendment ruling as to speech against the government was an insufficient change in existing law to justify relief from judgment enforcing a contempt adjudication on secondary picketing under the Act, as alternate mechanisms of speech such as leaflets are still available, and the Act is content-neutral.
Concur: Not ripe, as only a vague desire to picket, and no indication of enforcement plans by management.
http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2018/06/08/88-07283.pdf
Concur: Not ripe, as only a vague desire to picket, and no indication of enforcement plans by management.
http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2018/06/08/88-07283.pdf
Eighth Circuit: Leslie Camick v. Jefferson B. Sessions III
As an alien has the power to challenge the knowingness of waiver and petition for an extension, overstaying a voluntary departure order exhausts the benefit of permitted departure and allows the government to finalize the alternative order of removal, with all waivers of the voluntary departure grant intact.
(Again, all this is quick work. Not legal advice. Don't rely.)
http://media.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/18/06/163506P.pdf
(Again, all this is quick work. Not legal advice. Don't rely.)
http://media.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/18/06/163506P.pdf
Seventh Circuit: Warren Johnson v. Advocate Health and Hospitals
Reported statement of partially anonymous comparator as to their pay is neither hearsay nor sufficient to establish the validity of the comparator.
Descriptions of comaparators on unfair promotion claim, unfair assignments claim, and termination claim were not specific enough to establish them as legitimate.
Sworn statements and depositions averring discriminatory language suffice to present an issue for trial.
Even where a contractor performs many supervisory duties, a supervening agent who retains the ability to hire, fire, and discipline workers (beyond "rubber stamp" approval) can be liable for a claim of workplace discrimination.
Concur/Diss: Reported workplace speech was too sporadic to present an issue of a hostile work environment.
http://media.ca7.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/rssExec.pl?Submit=Display&Path=Y2018/D06-08/C:16-3848:J:Rovner:aut:T:fnOp:N:2168250:S:0
Descriptions of comaparators on unfair promotion claim, unfair assignments claim, and termination claim were not specific enough to establish them as legitimate.
Sworn statements and depositions averring discriminatory language suffice to present an issue for trial.
Even where a contractor performs many supervisory duties, a supervening agent who retains the ability to hire, fire, and discipline workers (beyond "rubber stamp" approval) can be liable for a claim of workplace discrimination.
Concur/Diss: Reported workplace speech was too sporadic to present an issue of a hostile work environment.
http://media.ca7.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/rssExec.pl?Submit=Display&Path=Y2018/D06-08/C:16-3848:J:Rovner:aut:T:fnOp:N:2168250:S:0
Seventh Circuit: EEOC v. CVS Pharmacy, Incorporated
Award of fees against the Commission was an abuse of discretion, as there was a colorable argument that neither the Commission's own conciliation requirement nor the statutory requirement for same was a prerequisite to suit.
Sixth Circuit: United States v. Trevon Barcus - Eastern District of Tennessee at Knoxville
Categorically, the state statute was not a valid predicate for statutory offender registration, as it did not incorporate the specific intent required by the federal statute.
Given the statement in the commentary to the statute, offender lifetime monitoring is a valid predicate for a sentencing bump for crimes committed during a criminal justice sentence.
Release conditions mandating psychological treatment and polygraph are reasonably related to registration offense.
http://www.opn.ca6.uscourts.gov/opinions.pdf/18a0109p-06.pdf
Given the statement in the commentary to the statute, offender lifetime monitoring is a valid predicate for a sentencing bump for crimes committed during a criminal justice sentence.
Release conditions mandating psychological treatment and polygraph are reasonably related to registration offense.
http://www.opn.ca6.uscourts.gov/opinions.pdf/18a0109p-06.pdf
Sixth Circuit: Barbara Fletcher v. Honeywell Int'l, Inc.
The durational clause of a CBA applies to health coverage absent clear affirmative language to the contrary.
Lifetime health benefits for survivors of workers does not imply a similar vesting for workers; in fact, it argues against any ambiguity as to the question where the agreement is silent on that point.
http://www.opn.ca6.uscourts.gov/opinions.pdf/18a0108p-06.pdf
Lifetime health benefits for survivors of workers does not imply a similar vesting for workers; in fact, it argues against any ambiguity as to the question where the agreement is silent on that point.
http://www.opn.ca6.uscourts.gov/opinions.pdf/18a0108p-06.pdf
First Circuit: Caraballo-Caraballo v. Administracion de Correccion
In assessing comparators for a claim of workplace discrimination, the plaintiff's demonstrated ability in performing the present job should be taken into account.
Transfer to the Commissary, even absent diminution in rank or pay, was a sufficiently adverse employment action.
http://media.ca1.uscourts.gov/pdf.opinions/16-1597P-01A.pdf
Transfer to the Commissary, even absent diminution in rank or pay, was a sufficiently adverse employment action.
http://media.ca1.uscourts.gov/pdf.opinions/16-1597P-01A.pdf
First Circuit: US v. Rivera-Hernandez
Sentencing judge appropriately considered deft's particular situation, given reasoning outside of the sentencing memorandum.
No error in within-guidelines sentence above the level set by plea deal.
First Circuit: Doe v. Trustees of Boston College
State contractual guarantees of good faith and fair dealing apply to a student's relationship with their university; where procedures are published, this duty is displaced by a contractual guarantee of compliance with the stated procedures.
While the school's procedures were generally in accord with the published rule, possibly prejudicial ex parte communications during the tribunal's deliberations present a genuine issue of material fact for trial.
Despite plaintiff's indications of intent to file a lawsuit, an email from an officer of the deft promising an independent investigation did not create a binding contract, as plaintiff never evinced a willingness to strike a deal -- there was no consideration.
Statistics alone can't establish a Title IX claim on the outcome or for deliberate indifference; the specific mechanism of discriminatory action needed to be identified.
Procedural unfairness in student disciplinary decisions sounds in contract, not tort.
http://media.ca1.uscourts.gov/pdf.opinions/16-2290P-01A.pdf
While the school's procedures were generally in accord with the published rule, possibly prejudicial ex parte communications during the tribunal's deliberations present a genuine issue of material fact for trial.
Despite plaintiff's indications of intent to file a lawsuit, an email from an officer of the deft promising an independent investigation did not create a binding contract, as plaintiff never evinced a willingness to strike a deal -- there was no consideration.
Statistics alone can't establish a Title IX claim on the outcome or for deliberate indifference; the specific mechanism of discriminatory action needed to be identified.
Procedural unfairness in student disciplinary decisions sounds in contract, not tort.
http://media.ca1.uscourts.gov/pdf.opinions/16-2290P-01A.pdf
First Circuit: US v. Laureano-Perez
Sentencing judge sufficiently weighed individual concerns, given recitation of deft's age, education, and work history.
Given that the present crime occurred while on supervised release for a drugs offense, no error in drug testing as a release condition.
http://media.ca1.uscourts.gov/pdf.opinions/16-2399P-01A.pdf
Given that the present crime occurred while on supervised release for a drugs offense, no error in drug testing as a release condition.
http://media.ca1.uscourts.gov/pdf.opinions/16-2399P-01A.pdf
First Circuit: US. Robles-Paron
Claim of ineffective assistance and judicial error in sentencing need not be refiled in a collateral proceeding where the government stipulates to the error. Sentence can be vacated and remanded on direct appeal.
Judicial sentencing script sufficiently weighed individual considerations, and did not impermissibly focus on social concerns.
http://media.ca1.uscourts.gov/pdf.opinions/16-2455P-01A.pdf
Judicial sentencing script sufficiently weighed individual considerations, and did not impermissibly focus on social concerns.
http://media.ca1.uscourts.gov/pdf.opinions/16-2455P-01A.pdf
First Circuit: Caraballo-Caraballo v. Administracion de Correccion
When a superseding indictment adds charges arising out the same act, transaction or common scheme, the Sixth Amendment speedy trial clock for the added charges still runs from the initial indictment.
The protections of the Sixth Amendment are generically distinct from Due Process and double jeopardy, and differ from the statutory protections offered under the Speedy Trial Act; the protection therefore arises directly from the Sixth Amendment.
http://media.ca1.uscourts.gov/pdf.opinions/17-1961P-01A.pdf
The protections of the Sixth Amendment are generically distinct from Due Process and double jeopardy, and differ from the statutory protections offered under the Speedy Trial Act; the protection therefore arises directly from the Sixth Amendment.
http://media.ca1.uscourts.gov/pdf.opinions/17-1961P-01A.pdf
Eleventh Circuit: Finest Meridor v. Attorney General
Immigration Judge's finding as to likely future danger was a finding of fact that could only be reviewed for clear error; the agency erred by reversing de novo.
Subsequent statute holding that a certain agency is the only authority to issue a certain visa under that article operates as a context-specific enhancement to an earlier statute authorizing the issuance of the visa by other authorities.
http://media.ca11.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/files/201514569.pdf
Subsequent statute holding that a certain agency is the only authority to issue a certain visa under that article operates as a context-specific enhancement to an earlier statute authorizing the issuance of the visa by other authorities.
http://media.ca11.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/files/201514569.pdf
Federal Circuit: PGS Physical v. Iancu
(Reminder: We don't know many things. We especially don't know Patent.)
Agency decision presenting both non-instituted claims and rulings on instituted claims and grounds is sufficiently final for judicial review.
Erroneous non-institution is waiveable, and presents no sua sponte obligation in subsequent judicial review.
(Again, completely guessing here.)
Board decision on motivation to combine prior art was reasonable.
http://www.cafc.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/opinions-orders/16-2470.Opinion.6-6-2018.1.pdf
Agency decision presenting both non-instituted claims and rulings on instituted claims and grounds is sufficiently final for judicial review.
Erroneous non-institution is waiveable, and presents no sua sponte obligation in subsequent judicial review.
(Again, completely guessing here.)
Board decision on motivation to combine prior art was reasonable.
http://www.cafc.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/opinions-orders/16-2470.Opinion.6-6-2018.1.pdf
Federal Circuit: Martin v. O'Rourke
Although the All Writs Act isn't an independent basis for jurisdiction, Mandamus against unreasonable administrative delay validly runs from the Circuit Courts when necessary to protect their future jurisdiction.
Mandamus against delay by the Dept of Veterans Affairs should be governed not by a finding of the official's refusal to act, but by a common-law balancing test.
Concur: An over five-year appeals process, mostly composed of ministerial tasks and docketing, is excessive. Mandamus is the only viable option.
http://www.cafc.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/opinions-orders/17-1747.Opinion.6-5-2018.1.pdf
Mandamus against delay by the Dept of Veterans Affairs should be governed not by a finding of the official's refusal to act, but by a common-law balancing test.
Concur: An over five-year appeals process, mostly composed of ministerial tasks and docketing, is excessive. Mandamus is the only viable option.
http://www.cafc.uscourts.gov/sites/default/files/opinions-orders/17-1747.Opinion.6-5-2018.1.pdf
Havensight Capital LLC v. Nike Inc.
Appeal of Rule 11 sanctions and dismissal of amended complaint does not not incorporate appeal of post-judgment sanctions orders.
Pending post-judgment motion that can be construed as a challenge to the decision on the merits, when filed before entry of judgment, does not toll the time limit for appeals.
Numerous and voluminous motions justified Rule 11 sanctions.
http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2018/06/07/15-56607.pdf
Pending post-judgment motion that can be construed as a challenge to the decision on the merits, when filed before entry of judgment, does not toll the time limit for appeals.
Numerous and voluminous motions justified Rule 11 sanctions.
http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2018/06/07/15-56607.pdf
Ninth Circuit: White v. Square, Inc.
Visiting a website with the intent to use its services and then declining to advance past a user agreement that incorporated an allegedly discriminatory bar on the use of its services constitutes a sufficiently concrete and particularized Article III injury.
Questions certified to California: whether a patron must use a business services to qualify for the statutory antidiscrimination provisions at issue, or if merely presenting themselves is sufficient. Also -- what the internet correlative to this standard might be.
http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2018/06/07/16-17137.pdf
Questions certified to California: whether a patron must use a business services to qualify for the statutory antidiscrimination provisions at issue, or if merely presenting themselves is sufficient. Also -- what the internet correlative to this standard might be.
http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2018/06/07/16-17137.pdf
Ninth Circuit: Ellis v. Harrison
State court's holding that Habeas petitioner must establish prejudice from his counsel's racial animus by a preponderance was an unreasonable application of federal constitutional law.
To establish prejudice from counsel's racial animus, petitioner must establish either his or her knowledge of the animus at a critical phase of the proceedings, resulting in a communications breakdown, or another adverse effect of the animus.
Concurrence to per curiam: prejudice should be the presumption in strategic decisions once animus is established.
http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2018/06/07/16-56188.pdf
To establish prejudice from counsel's racial animus, petitioner must establish either his or her knowledge of the animus at a critical phase of the proceedings, resulting in a communications breakdown, or another adverse effect of the animus.
Concurrence to per curiam: prejudice should be the presumption in strategic decisions once animus is established.
http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2018/06/07/16-56188.pdf
Eighth Circuit: Mahn v. Jefferson County
In First Amendment retaliation case, once the plaintiff produces substantive proof from which the finder of fact can infer that the protected conduct was a motivating factor, the full burden of proof to establish a nondiscriminatory motive for the action passes to the deft.
At summary judgment, this nondiscriminatory explanation must be indisputable.
Reinstatement is an equitable remedy permitted against a state official under Ex Parte Young.
Allegations against second official and municipality too speculative to present issue for trial.
http://media.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/18/06/161731P.pdf
At summary judgment, this nondiscriminatory explanation must be indisputable.
Reinstatement is an equitable remedy permitted against a state official under Ex Parte Young.
Allegations against second official and municipality too speculative to present issue for trial.
http://media.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/18/06/161731P.pdf
Seventh Circuit: Carl Leo Davis v. US
The Supreme Court's holding that the residual clause of ACCA was unconstitutionally vague announced a substantive change in the law that applies to petitioners seeking collateral review of sentences imposed under a parallel provision of the mandatory sentencing guidelines, despite the Supreme Court's subsequent holding that the provision in the guidelines was constitutional, as the gudelines, in the interval, had become merely advisory.
This substantive shift in the law was a sharp reversal from precedent, legitimately causing the petitioners not to raise the issue on direct appeal.
A second substantive change in the law that removed an alternate basis for the sentence of one of the petitioners did not trigger a mandatory limitation period for filing the writ, as it would merely have shifted the ultimate basis for the sentence.
A plea deal carve out excepting any constitutionally impermissible factor incorporates any unconstitutional input present at sentencing.
Prior offenses should be considered categorically when deciding whether the conviction is a valid predicate.
(Important decision. Again, all this is quick work. Don't rely.)
Sixth Circuit: United States v. Oscar Robinson
Above (almost double) guidelines sentence based on factors possibly resulting from addiction and the specific harms posed by the substance possessed and dealt is not substantively unreasonable.
Pre-plea disclosure of criminal history did not unfairly prejudice things.
http://www.opn.ca6.uscourts.gov/opinions.pdf/18a0107p-06.pdf
Pre-plea disclosure of criminal history did not unfairly prejudice things.
http://www.opn.ca6.uscourts.gov/opinions.pdf/18a0107p-06.pdf
Fifth Circuit: Certain Undwr at Lloyds London v. Lowen Valley
As the insurer established a plausible theory of harm outside the claim, the insured was required to establish some reasonable basis of apportioning the damage; absent this proof, the insurer has no liability under state law.
http://www.ca5.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/17/17-10914-CV0.pdf
http://www.ca5.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/17/17-10914-CV0.pdf
Fifth Circuit: Gorman v. Sharp
As the Fourth Amendment requires a willful violation, a training officer who forgets to swap his gun for a dummy gun and shoots the other fellow in the chest does not violate the Federal Constitution by restricting his freedom of movement.
http://www.ca5.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/17/17-60515-CV0.pdf
http://www.ca5.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/17/17-60515-CV0.pdf
Fifth Circuit: In re Rosendo Rodruiguez
Rule 11 show-cause ruling on untimely capital Habeas filing.
Petitioner should have rebutted affidavit timely offered by the state. No sanctions.
http://www.ca5.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/18/18-10337-CV0.pdf
Petitioner should have rebutted affidavit timely offered by the state. No sanctions.
http://www.ca5.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/18/18-10337-CV0.pdf
Second Circuit: Seepersad v. Sessions
No equal protection violation in permitting aliens seeking readmission at the border to waive inadmissibility while requiring a showing of valid residency before granting a similar waiver to resident aliens, as Congress might have wished to encourage doubtful aliens to be elsewhere during the process.
http://www.ca2.uscourts.gov/decisions/isysquery/1a213a40-982b-4547-95ac-62b636db872e/1/doc/16-64_opn.pdf#xml=http://www.ca2.uscourts.gov/decisions/isysquery/1a213a40-982b-4547-95ac-62b636db872e/1/hilite/
Second Circuit: AEI Life v. Lincoln Benefit Life
A conformity statement in a contract, when captioned as a conformity clause and not naming a particular jurisdiction, does not sufficiently manifest the intention of the parties to be bound by the law of a particular jurisdiction to operate as a choice of law clause.
Under center of gravity analysis, New York law governs the transaction.
State public policy interests against wagering insurance contracts establish voidability, not ab initio nullity, and the risk can therefore be incorporated in the drafting.
Notary verification on the instrument of trust formation created a presumption of validity that was not overcome by a challenge by a handwriting expert.
http://www.ca2.uscourts.gov/decisions/isysquery/1a213a40-982b-4547-95ac-62b636db872e/2/doc/17-224_opn.pdf#xml=http://www.ca2.uscourts.gov/decisions/isysquery/1a213a40-982b-4547-95ac-62b636db872e/2/hilite/
Under center of gravity analysis, New York law governs the transaction.
State public policy interests against wagering insurance contracts establish voidability, not ab initio nullity, and the risk can therefore be incorporated in the drafting.
Notary verification on the instrument of trust formation created a presumption of validity that was not overcome by a challenge by a handwriting expert.
http://www.ca2.uscourts.gov/decisions/isysquery/1a213a40-982b-4547-95ac-62b636db872e/2/doc/17-224_opn.pdf#xml=http://www.ca2.uscourts.gov/decisions/isysquery/1a213a40-982b-4547-95ac-62b636db872e/2/hilite/
First Circuit: IRS v. Murphy
There is no good faith exception for willful violations of a bankruptcy stay; it suffices that the IRS knew of the stay and intentionally violated it.
With regard to the protection against willful violation, a stay offers the same protections as a discharge order.
This standard was contemplated at enactment, so the implied waiver of sovereign immunity is exactly parallel.
Dissent: presumption is against the waiver of sovereign immunity. As "willful" modifies "violation," IRS must knowingly violate a valid stay or discharge.
http://media.ca1.uscourts.gov/pdf.opinions/17-1601P-01A.pdf
With regard to the protection against willful violation, a stay offers the same protections as a discharge order.
This standard was contemplated at enactment, so the implied waiver of sovereign immunity is exactly parallel.
Dissent: presumption is against the waiver of sovereign immunity. As "willful" modifies "violation," IRS must knowingly violate a valid stay or discharge.
http://media.ca1.uscourts.gov/pdf.opinions/17-1601P-01A.pdf
First Circuit: AIG Property Casualty Co. v. Cosby
Souter, Associate Justice (Ret.), sitting by designation. And Bill.
Given a more stringent parallel exclusion in the insurance policy, the more laconic exclusion creates an ambiguity sufficient to trigger the presumption for the insured and the resulting duty to defend.
http://media.ca1.uscourts.gov/pdf.opinions/17-1505P-01A.pdf
Given a more stringent parallel exclusion in the insurance policy, the more laconic exclusion creates an ambiguity sufficient to trigger the presumption for the insured and the resulting duty to defend.
http://media.ca1.uscourts.gov/pdf.opinions/17-1505P-01A.pdf
First Circuit: Congregation Jeshuat Israel v. Congregation Shearith Israel
Denial of en banc.
Clarification from panel (Souter): holding only addresses trust obligations of parties.
Dissent from denial: But res judicata. Also, written contracts might not be the best way of getting at the truth, as the chartered entities didn't exist when the property transfer occurred.
http://media.ca1.uscourts.gov/pdf.opinions/16-1756O-01A.pdf
Clarification from panel (Souter): holding only addresses trust obligations of parties.
Dissent from denial: But res judicata. Also, written contracts might not be the best way of getting at the truth, as the chartered entities didn't exist when the property transfer occurred.
http://media.ca1.uscourts.gov/pdf.opinions/16-1756O-01A.pdf
Eleventh Circuit: US v. Wenxia Man
Conspiracy requiring a third participant is sufficiently well-developed if the others are planning to find an alternative to agreement with the necessary participant
Deft's awareness of illegal nature of the weapons sale activity evinced sufficient specific intent to violate the licensing requirements of the Act.
Eagerness to do the transaction and the delicate and furtive nature of the conversations established sufficient evidence for the finding that deft was predisposed to the crime and therefore not entrapped.
Co-conspirator hearsay properly admitted. Court could properly find an unidentified email address a co-conspirator. Admission of contemporaneous uncharged bad acts proper, as sufficiently entwined.
Sentence reasonable -- deft's US presence made her invaluable; no discriminatory error in court's sentencing finding that deft was faithful to her native country.
No plain error in Brady violation, given insufficient record/proffer.
http://media.ca11.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/files/201615635.pdf
Deft's awareness of illegal nature of the weapons sale activity evinced sufficient specific intent to violate the licensing requirements of the Act.
Eagerness to do the transaction and the delicate and furtive nature of the conversations established sufficient evidence for the finding that deft was predisposed to the crime and therefore not entrapped.
Co-conspirator hearsay properly admitted. Court could properly find an unidentified email address a co-conspirator. Admission of contemporaneous uncharged bad acts proper, as sufficiently entwined.
Sentence reasonable -- deft's US presence made her invaluable; no discriminatory error in court's sentencing finding that deft was faithful to her native country.
No plain error in Brady violation, given insufficient record/proffer.
http://media.ca11.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/files/201615635.pdf
Eleventh Circuit: LABMD, Inc. v. FTC
FTC cease-and-desist order too vague to be enforced, since an identical order from a court would be unenforceable on its terms, and the order therefore does not abate a specific act or practice that violates the statute.
http://media.ca11.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/files/201616270.pdf
http://media.ca11.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/files/201616270.pdf
Eleventh Circuit: Minott v. Brunello
Refusal of District Court to issue a warrant in rem for arrest of the vessel can be independently appealed.
Operation of the vessel in navigating the waters was sufficient maritime activity to give the court statutory in rem jurisdiction.
The lien against the vessel was perfected by the harm of the tort.
http://media.ca11.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/files/201810374.pdf
Operation of the vessel in navigating the waters was sufficient maritime activity to give the court statutory in rem jurisdiction.
The lien against the vessel was perfected by the harm of the tort.
http://media.ca11.uscourts.gov/opinions/pub/files/201810374.pdf
Tenth Circuit: US v. Miller
Admission of expert testimony that did not clearly distinguish civil malpractice from criminal behavior was not an abuse of discretion.
Sufficient evidence where deft expert offers the only clear guidance on threshold of criminality, and court follows indications of another expert.
Indictment alleging dispensing of controlled substances by transaction as opposed to by substance not defective; additionally, would be harmless error as elements of the offense were identical. No error in allowing conviction on theory of multiple dispensation where the crime is single dispensation.
Absent curative instruction, plain error in constructive amendment of indictment when, during testimony at trial, prosecution witness alleged a second false statement.
Given the procedures used, state administrative vacatur did not make a prior suspension of medical license a legal nullity.
Sentence challenge moot, as already served.
https://www.ca10.uscourts.gov/opinions/16/16-1231.pdf
Sufficient evidence where deft expert offers the only clear guidance on threshold of criminality, and court follows indications of another expert.
Indictment alleging dispensing of controlled substances by transaction as opposed to by substance not defective; additionally, would be harmless error as elements of the offense were identical. No error in allowing conviction on theory of multiple dispensation where the crime is single dispensation.
Absent curative instruction, plain error in constructive amendment of indictment when, during testimony at trial, prosecution witness alleged a second false statement.
Given the procedures used, state administrative vacatur did not make a prior suspension of medical license a legal nullity.
Sentence challenge moot, as already served.
https://www.ca10.uscourts.gov/opinions/16/16-1231.pdf
Ninth Circuit: US v. Gibran Richardo Figueroa-Beltran
Given a state supreme court holding that a legislature could leave the identification of specific controlled substances for later determination, and a second holding by the same court that the simultaneous sale of two prohibited substances constituted two distinct offenses, question certified to the state court asking whether the elements of the state statute are divisible, which would merit closer scrutiny when asking whether they correspond to the federal statute.
"Pled."
http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2018/06/06/16-10388.pdf
"Pled."
http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2018/06/06/16-10388.pdf
Ninth Circuit: Pike v. Hester
State Judicial Court finding granting an order of protection based on conduct that would be excused if lawful has preclusive effect under state's doctrine of issue preclusion in a subsequent S1983 action claiming a 4A violation on the search.
Dissent -- Parties didn't raise the issue, night-time dog-sniff of public employee's desk doesn't violate the 4A.
Ninth Circuit: Danny P. v. Catholic Health Initiatives
Statute requires that Plan Administrator reimburse for room and board at a mental health facility where a similar surgical or medical stay would be so reimbursed.
The court's reading does not conflict with agency interpretations.
http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2018/06/06/16-35609.pdf
The court's reading does not conflict with agency interpretations.
http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2018/06/06/16-35609.pdf
Ninth Circuit: John Doe v. Regents
State writ of administrative mandamus is a substantive state proceeding, not merely a mechanism, and as such, is not subject to the Ex Parte Young exception to state immunity for federal remedies.
State claim that plaintiff had not exhausted judicial remedies by seeking administrative mandamus did not operate as a sufficiently unambiguous waiver of state immunity.
Denial of motion to dismiss is on exhaustion grounds can be appealed as a pendent matter.
http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2018/06/06/17-56110.pdf
State claim that plaintiff had not exhausted judicial remedies by seeking administrative mandamus did not operate as a sufficiently unambiguous waiver of state immunity.
Denial of motion to dismiss is on exhaustion grounds can be appealed as a pendent matter.
http://cdn.ca9.uscourts.gov/datastore/opinions/2018/06/06/17-56110.pdf
Eighth Circuit: United States v. Ler Wah Guide
District Court judge's recognition at sentencing of a language barrier did not undercut the court's finding that an earlier waiver of jury trial and guilty plea had been knowing and voluntary, despite the deft's claim that simultaneous translation had made the proceedings impossible to follow. (Also given a written form.)
http://media.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/18/06/172431P.pdf
http://media.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/18/06/172431P.pdf
Eighth Circuit: Daniel Ayala v. CyberPower Systems (USA), Inc.
Compensation agreement voidable only for cause was, as a matter of law, insufficient to overcome the state presumption of employment at will, as it didn't specifically address the point.
Dissent: Matter for the finder of fact.
http://media.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/18/06/171852P.pdf
Eighth Circuit: Mark Woodworth v. Kenneth Hulshof
A special prosecutor has absolute immunity for incidents of nondisclosure and conspiracy tied to the prosecution; such acts cannot be used to establish a conspiracy prior to the beginning of the prosecution.
Prosecutorial directives made by the judge did not strip him of absolute judicial immunity, as they were not binding on the prosecutor.
http://media.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/18/06/171667P.pdf
Prosecutorial directives made by the judge did not strip him of absolute judicial immunity, as they were not binding on the prosecutor.
http://media.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/18/06/171667P.pdf
Eighth Circuit: US v. Matthew Helm
Certain downward adjustments to a guideline range, including reduction for time served, are modifications to a certain range; a retroactive modification in that range does not justify a challenge to the sentence where the initial downward reduction resulted in a below-guidelines sentence.
http://media.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/18/06/171284P.pdf
http://media.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/18/06/171284P.pdf
Eighth Circuit: James Humphrey v. Eureka Gardens Public Facility
A S1983 discriminatory treatment claim accrues for purposes of the statute of limitation when the plaintiff is aware of the adverse decision and capable of seeking injunctive or declaratory relief.
http://media.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/18/06/171265P.pdf
http://media.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/18/06/171265P.pdf
Seventh Circuit: William Wheeler v. William Hronopoulos
In a Section 1983 action alleging improper search, a claim at trial that the tip was hearsay does not properly preserve a claim on appeal that the confidential informant might not have existed at all.
http://media.ca7.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/rssExec.pl?Submit=Display&Path=Y2018/D06-06/C:17-2073:J:Gilbert:aut:T:fnOp:N:2166644:S:0
http://media.ca7.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/rssExec.pl?Submit=Display&Path=Y2018/D06-06/C:17-2073:J:Gilbert:aut:T:fnOp:N:2166644:S:0
Seventh Circuit: USA v. Charlise Williams
No constitutional error where a court limits cross-examination on a peripheral issue designed to suggest bias and motive to lie, so long as the theory of the attack is made plain.
No clear error in sentencing calculation of loss amounts that didn't take into account the lawfulness of claims asserted in the debt incurred during the fraud.
No error in sentencing calculation of number of victims by totalling the number of creditors stayed by each fraudulent petition.
http://media.ca7.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/rssExec.pl?Submit=Display&Path=Y2018/D06-06/C:17-2244:J:Flaum:aut:T:fnOp:N:2166680:S:0
No clear error in sentencing calculation of loss amounts that didn't take into account the lawfulness of claims asserted in the debt incurred during the fraud.
No error in sentencing calculation of number of victims by totalling the number of creditors stayed by each fraudulent petition.
http://media.ca7.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/rssExec.pl?Submit=Display&Path=Y2018/D06-06/C:17-2244:J:Flaum:aut:T:fnOp:N:2166680:S:0
Sixth Circuit: In re Blasingame
Trustee's sale of claim to a creditor operated as an assignment of claim under all theories of the claim; this removed the claim from the jurisdiction of the bankruptcy action.
A bankruptcy court's interpretation of its order assigning a claim to a creditor in exchange for value to the trustee is not a contract but an order, and is reviewed for abuse of discretion and not subject to clarification by extrinsic evidence.
http://www.opn.ca6.uscourts.gov/opinions.pdf/18b0009p-06.pdf
A bankruptcy court's interpretation of its order assigning a claim to a creditor in exchange for value to the trustee is not a contract but an order, and is reviewed for abuse of discretion and not subject to clarification by extrinsic evidence.
http://www.opn.ca6.uscourts.gov/opinions.pdf/18b0009p-06.pdf
Fourth Circuit: US v. Daniel Sanchez
When a deft elects not to challenge an almost-completed sentence by Habeas, a challenge to the imposition of additional time after revocation of supervised release cannot be raised on the grounds that the original sentence was unconstitutional, as statute requires such challenges to be made by direct appeal or collateral challenge.
http://www.ca4.uscourts.gov/opinions/174169.P.pdf
Fourth Circuit: US v. Eddie Fluker
Under categorical analysis, state robbery statute isn't a crime of violence, as it only required the minimum of force to take the object from the other person.
A postconviction challenge to a sentencing error after the completion of the sentence is not moot where the petitioner is currently incarcerated on a subsequent conviction to be served consecutively to the challenged sentence.
No error in allowing testimony not presented at trial during a full resentencing, so long as the government is not given a second bite at the apple with respect to a certain sentencing decision.
http://www.ca4.uscourts.gov/opinions/174690.P.pdf
Second Circuit: Certain Underwriting Members of Lloyds of London v. Insurance Company
In business arbitration, party-appointed arbitrators are not limited by the usual tests of evident partiality; rather, a party seeking to challenge the outcome must establish by clear and convincing evidence an improper nondisclosure or a prejudicial impact on the award.
http://www.ca2.uscourts.gov/decisions/isysquery/406cb98d-3b23-41bf-b154-c6c24ff325e7/1/doc/17-1137-cv_opn.pdf#xml=http://www.ca2.uscourts.gov/decisions/isysquery/406cb98d-3b23-41bf-b154-c6c24ff325e7/1/hilite/
(Incertain members of Lloyds presumably limited to permissive intervention.)
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