scndex

Virginia Supreme Court Defines Standard for Vacating Arbitration Awards

The Virginia Supreme Court has defined the standard for vacating arbitration awards based on 'evident partiality' under the Virginia Uniform Arbitration Act. The court held that a party must objectively demonstrate that a reasonable person would conclude the arbitrator's conduct signifies obvious bias. This ruling clarifies a key aspect of arbitration dispute resolution in Virginia.

Virginia Supreme Court Reviews Election Referendum Order

The Virginia Supreme Court has granted a petition for review concerning a temporary restraining order (TRO) that halted proceedings for a referendum on a constitutional amendment. The Court stayed the TRO, finding it possessed characteristics of a preliminary injunction and thus fell within its appellate jurisdiction, while also affirming the principle that courts should generally not enjoin elections.

Mother Appeals Adoption Without Consent in Virginia

The Virginia Supreme Court is reviewing a mother's appeal against a lower court's decision to allow her child's adoption without her consent. The case centers on whether the mother's past substance abuse and non-compliance with court orders negate the need for her consent under Virginia Code § 63.2-1202(H). The court will affirm the lower courts' judgment.

Virginia Supreme Court Denies Motion to Clarify Stay Order

The Virginia Supreme Court denied a motion to clarify its previous stay order in Koski v. Republican National Committee. The Court clarified that its prior order to "promptly bring the case to closure" did not mean immediate final judgment before further proceedings, denying the motion to compel immediate final judgment or consolidation.

Joseph Willis Lee, III Violated Conduct Rules

The Virginia Supreme Court affirmed a lower court's finding that attorney Joseph Willis Lee, III violated professional conduct rules by knowingly withholding exculpatory evidence from a criminal defendant. The court rejected Lee's arguments regarding improper notice of a prior disciplinary action and insufficient evidence.