Federal

Court to Consider Prison Inmate’s Religious Liberty Claims

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On Monday, the Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in the case of Damon Landor, a Louisiana man whose religious beliefs led him to grow long dreadlocks. The case raises significant questions regarding the balance between institutional authority and individual rights, particularly in the context of religious expression within the prison system. Landor’s situation began in 2020 when prison officials forcibly shaved his head, disregarding a federal appeals court ruling that affirmed his right to maintain his dreadlocks. The Legal Framework: RLUIPA At the heart of this case is the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized … Read more

Court appears dubious of Trump’s tariffs

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On a recent Wednesday, the Supreme Court engaged in a lengthy examination of President Donald Trump’s authority concerning tariffs imposed through executive orders. The justices expressed skepticism about whether these tariffs were within the president’s legal powers, particularly in light of challenges from small businesses and states. This case underscores the ongoing debate surrounding executive power and its limits, especially in matters of international trade. The Legal Framework of Presidential Tariffs The core of the legal argument revolves around the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), a federal statute enacted in 1977. Under this law, … Read more

Court Leans Against Applying Fugitive Tolling in Federal Supervised Release

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The recent Supreme Court case, Rico v. United States, has brought significant attention to the doctrine of fugitive tolling in the context of federal supervised release. This legal principle raises crucial questions about the rights of defendants who flee from their probation officers during their term of supervised release. The implications of the court’s ruling could reshape how supervised release is enforced and interpreted, particularly concerning the expiration of supervision terms while a defendant is considered a fugitive. Understanding Fugitive Tolling Fugitive tolling is primarily governed by 18 U.S.C. § 3583(i), which delineates the conditions … Read more

SCOTUStoday for Wednesday, November 5

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On November 5, 2025, the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) convenes to address significant legal issues, particularly concerning the major questions doctrine and its implications for executive power. This doctrine scrutinizes the extent of authority that Congress grants to the executive branch, especially in matters of substantial economic and political significance. Today, the court will hear oral arguments related to the tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, which raises questions about the scope of presidential power in economic matters. Understanding the Major Questions Doctrine The … Read more