Adoption of Jazzy - Massachusetts Appeals Court Opinion

The Massachusetts Appeals Court issued a non-precedential opinion affirming a lower court's decision to terminate parental rights and approve adoption by the children's maternal aunt and uncle. The parents appealed, arguing the court failed to determine reasonable efforts by the Department of Children and Families, adequately consider guardianship, or order post-decree contact.

Family Behavioral Health Inc. v. 387 Main Street Realty Trust - Appeals Court Opinion

The Massachusetts Appeals Court issued a non-precedential opinion affirming a lower court's judgment against 387 Main Street Realty Trust and Raymond Bonneville. The defendants were found liable for breach of contract, interference with business relations, and unfair trade practices. The court found the defendants' arguments regarding sufficiency of evidence were waived.

Corona-Montano v. United States - Alien Transport Sentencing Appeal

The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed a district court's sentencing enhancement for transporting an unaccompanied minor in the case of Luis Francisco Corona-Montano. The court held that the Sentencing Guidelines do not require scienter for this enhancement, affirming the 71-month sentence.

Malibu and Culver City v. FAA - Standing for NextGen Initiative Challenges

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals dismissed petitions from the Cities of Malibu and Culver City challenging the FAA's NextGen initiative. The court found the cities lacked standing to sue over the 2018 amendments and that challenges to the original 2016 procedures were untimely.

Culver City v. Federal Aviation Administration - Standing to Challenge Air Traffic Procedures

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals dismissed petitions from the Cities of Malibu and Culver City challenging FAA air traffic procedures. The court found the cities lacked standing to sue, as they failed to demonstrate a reasonable probability of injury from the challenged 2018 amendments to the NextGen initiative.

US Sanctions Rwandan Officials for Violating Washington Accords

The United States has sanctioned the Rwandan Defense Force (RDF) and four senior RDF officers for their support of the M23 movement in the DRC, violating the Washington Accords for Peace and Prosperity. This action, taken under Executive Order 13413, demonstrates U.S. resolve to uphold regional stability.

NY Sues Harbourview Realty to Stop Pollution Discharges

New York State agencies have filed a lawsuit against Harbourview Realty LLC to halt alleged illegal pollution discharges into Hempstead Bay. The suit seeks injunctive relief to stop the unpermitted discharges and civil penalties for violations of the Clean Water Act.

State v. Aliff - Probation Revocation Appeal

The Court of Appeals of Kansas affirmed a district court's decision to revoke Allen Dale Aliff's probation and impose his underlying 33-month prison sentence. The appeal was submitted for summary disposition.

People v. Suarez - California Court of Appeal Opinion

The California Court of Appeal affirmed the denial of Jose Alfredo Suarez's petition for resentencing under Penal Code section 1172.6. The court found that Suarez's conviction for second degree murder was based on his determination as the actual killer, thus precluding relief under the statute.

People v. Pipping - Criminal Appeal

The California Court of Appeal, Fourth Appellate District, Division One, affirmed the conviction of Brian Frederick Pipping for second-degree murder and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The court found no constitutional ineffectiveness of counsel regarding alleged prosecutorial misconduct during closing arguments.

People v. Nelson - Criminal Appeal

The California Court of Appeal affirmed the denial of a petition for resentencing filed by Charles L. Nelson. The court found that Nelson was the actual perpetrator of the offenses and therefore ineligible for relief under Penal Code section 1172.6. The appeal was reviewed under the Wende/Anders standard.

People v. Baltazar - Criminal Resentencing Appeal

The California Court of Appeal affirmed a trial court's denial of a resentencing petition filed by Ernesto Baltazar under Penal Code section 1172.6. The court found substantial evidence that Baltazar aided and abetted a killing with intent to kill, thus disqualifying him from resentencing.

People v. David - Criminal Appeal

The California Court of Appeal issued an opinion in the case of People v. David, concerning a defendant convicted of five counts of first-degree murder and three counts of assault causing death. The court vacated four of the multiple-murder special circumstance findings as duplicative, otherwise affirming the judgment.

People v. Luna - Criminal Appeal

The California Court of Appeal, Third Appellate District, filed an opinion in the case of People v. Luna. The court affirmed the trial court's order denying the defendant's request for recall and resentencing under Penal Code section 1172.1. The opinion is not certified for publication.

People v. Oliver - Non-Precedential Opinion

The California Court of Appeal, Fourth Appellate District, Division One, affirmed the conviction of Gianni Adrian Oliver. The non-precedential opinion, filed on March 2, 2026, confirmed that there were no arguable issues on appeal following Oliver's conviction stemming from a shootout with police.

In re K.B. - Child Welfare Jurisdiction Appeal

The California Court of Appeal, Fourth Appellate District, has issued an opinion in the case of In re K.B. The court affirmed an order maintaining juvenile court jurisdiction over a child, finding no abuse of discretion by the lower court despite the agency's recommendation. The case involved allegations of parental alcohol abuse.

In re J.W. - Juvenile Wardship Appeal

The California Court of Appeal affirmed a juvenile court's order adjudicating J.W. a ward of the court. The order followed the sustainment of allegations for vehicle theft and hit-and-run resulting in property damage. The appeal raised no arguable issues.

Sanwa Technologies v. Titus - Civil Appeal

The California Court of Appeal affirmed a trial court's summary judgment in favor of Sanwa Technologies, Inc. against Paul Joseph Titus. The appellate court found that Titus failed to provide an adequate record to demonstrate the trial court erred in its decision.

Ehrenkranz v. S.F. Zen Center - Wage and Hour Dispute

The California Court of Appeal reversed a trial court's summary judgment in favor of the San Francisco Zen Center in a wage-and-hour dispute filed by Michael Ehrenkranz. The court found that the ministerial exception did not bar Ehrenkranz's claims, as they did not raise an ecclesiastical concern. The court also addressed the undertaking requirement for appeals.

People v. Ryan - Mental Health Diversion Appeal

The California Court of Appeal reviewed a trial court's denial of a defendant's petition for mental health diversion. The appellate court found the trial court applied an incorrect legal standard and conditionally vacated the defendant's plea, remanding for further proceedings.

People v. Mahan - Non-Precedential Opinion Modification

The California Court of Appeal modified a non-precedential opinion in People v. Mahan (D086126). The court amended the written probation order to conform to the oral pronouncement, striking a condition allowing searches of computers and recordable media.

California DOJ Investigates Officer-Involved Shooting

The California Department of Justice is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred on February 28, 2026, in San Luis Obispo, resulting in one fatality. This investigation is being conducted under the mandates of Assembly Bill 1506, which requires independent review of such incidents.

AG Bonta Opposes Rule Eliminating AI Model Card Requirements in Healthcare

California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced his opposition to a proposed Trump administration rule that would eliminate AI model card requirements for healthcare products. The rule change would remove transparency and bias protections for AI used in healthcare decisions.

Renaissance Associates I L.P. v. City Of Hammond, Indiana - Appeal

The Indiana Court of Appeals affirmed a trial court's decision in Renaissance Associates I L.P. v. City of Hammond, Indiana. The case involved challenges to local residential inspection and registration fees under state law. The appellate court upheld the lower court's summary judgment ruling.

SCDSS v. Douglas G. Grill - Parental Rights Termination

The Court of Appeals of South Carolina affirmed a family court's final order terminating Douglas Grant Grill's parental rights to his minor children. This non-precedential opinion should not be cited as precedent.

Washington State Coastal Resilience and Nature-Based Solutions

Washington State's Department of Ecology is highlighting efforts in North Cove to build coastal resilience using nature-based solutions like dynamic revetments and large woody debris. These initiatives aim to combat erosion and protect communities from climate-related hazards such as sea-level rise and increased storm severity.

California PUC Weekly Filings and Proposed Decisions

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has published its weekly update of new filings for the week of February 23-27, 2026. This includes proposed decisions open for public comment and new complaints or applications impacting utility services.

CPUC Approves Clean Electricity Procurement and Transmission Upgrades

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) approved a decision requiring electricity providers to procure 6,000 megawatts of new clean energy and storage capacity by 2032. This decision aims to strengthen grid reliability, advance clean energy goals, and ensure affordability for customers.

Canada Pre-Merger Notification Threshold Remains $93M for 2026

The Canadian Minister of Industry has decided to keep the pre-merger notification threshold at $93 million for 2026. This means transactions where the acquired company's Canadian assets or revenues exceed $93 million will continue to require advance notice to the Competition Bureau, provided the combined parties' assets or revenues exceed $400 million.

State of Louisiana v. C.G. - Bail Rights in Juvenile Cases

The Louisiana Court of Appeal, First Circuit, granted a writ concerning bail rights for juveniles. The court ordered the juvenile court to remove categorical restrictions on the type of security for bond, allowing for various forms of surety beyond cash or commercial bonds.

B.B. v. Hochul - Child Welfare Certification Rights

The Second Circuit Court of Appeals reversed in part and affirmed in part a district court's decision in B.B. v. Hochul. The court found that plaintiffs, children removed from their parents, have standing to challenge New York's certification scheme for foster and adoptive parents, which denied certification based on criminal history or child abuse reports. The court remanded for further proceedings.

Broadcast Music, Inc. v. North American Concert Promoters Association - Antitrust

The Second Circuit Court of Appeals vacated a district court's decision regarding music licensing fees set by Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI) for the North American Concert Promoters Association (NACPA). The court found the imposed rates and expanded definition of 'gross revenues' to be unreasonable and remanded the case for further proceedings.

GEICO v. Patel - RICO Case Decision

The Second Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed a preliminary injunction against Dr. Bhargav Patel and associated entities in a RICO case brought by GEICO. The court found that the defendants participated in a scheme to defraud GEICO by exploiting New York's no-fault automobile insurance laws, leading to over $2 million in disputed claims.

NLRB v. Universal Smart Contracts, LLC - Enforcement of Subpoenas

The Second Circuit affirmed in part and dismissed in part a district court order enforcing National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) administrative subpoenas against Universal Smart Contracts, LLC, and related parties. The court found jurisdiction and venue proper but lacked jurisdiction to review the award of attorneys' fees due to a late appeal.

Care One LLC v. NLRB - Second Circuit Opinion on Unfair Labor Practice Proceedings

The Second Circuit affirmed a district court's denial of a preliminary injunction sought by Care One LLC and affiliated healthcare facilities. The facilities challenged NLRB proceedings, arguing the ALJ was improperly appointed and shielded from removal. The appellate court found the plaintiffs could not demonstrate irreparable harm, thus denying the injunction.

Court Rules on Noncitizen Removal Proceedings Deadline

The Second Circuit Court of Appeals granted a petition challenging the Board of Immigration Appeals' denial of a motion to reopen removal proceedings. The court remanded the case, finding the BIA provided insufficient reasons for denying equitable tolling of the 90-day deadline for filing such motions.

US v Boria - Cocaine and Firearm Conviction Appeal

The Second Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed the conviction of Steve Boria for conspiring to distribute cocaine and possessing a firearm. Boria argued the district court erred by not sufficiently inquiring into the effects of his medication during his plea colloquy.

US v. Cardenas - Court of Appeals Decision on Cocaine Importation Conspiracy

The Second Circuit Court of Appeals vacated the conviction of Jey James Roldan Cardenas for conspiracy to import cocaine. The court found that the district court erred in excluding evidence relevant to Roldan's defense of lacking criminal intent, remanding the case for further proceedings.

Appeals Court Rules on Defendant's Trial Competency

The Second Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed a district court's order extending a defendant's hospitalization beyond the initial four-month period while the government determined whether to seek civil commitment. The ruling clarifies the application of statutes governing competency to stand trial.

Duke v. Luxottica - ERISA Class Action Appeal

The Second Circuit Court of Appeals ruled on an ERISA class action against Luxottica. The court held that a former employee has standing to seek plan reformation but not monetary payments to the plan under Section 502(a)(2), and that the effective vindication doctrine precludes mandatory arbitration of that claim.

Second Circuit Rules on Loan Agreement Arbitration Violation

The Second Circuit Court of Appeals ruled on a dispute between Lanesborough 2000, LLC and Nextres, LLC regarding an arbitration award. The court found the contractual waiver of the right to appeal ambiguous and partially affirmed the district court's judgment, while vacating the injunction of a state-court proceeding.

Second Circuit Rules on Insurance Contract Case

The Second Circuit affirmed a district court ruling that Reidy Contracting Group was an additional insured under Mt. Hawley Insurance Company's policy. The court held that the Employers Liability Exclusion was ambiguous and must be construed against Mt. Hawley, requiring coverage for injuries sustained by workers at a construction site.

McGucken v. Shutterstock, Inc. - Copyright Infringement Appeal

The Second Circuit Court of Appeals partially affirmed and partially vacated a lower court's decision in McGucken v. Shutterstock, Inc. The court affirmed the dismissal of copyright management information claims but vacated the dismissal of copyright infringement claims, remanding for further proceedings.

Mar-Can Transport Co. v. Local 854 Pension Fund - ERISA Withdrawal Liability

The Second Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed a lower court's decision in Mar-Can Transport Co. v. Local 854 Pension Fund, ruling that Mar-Can is entitled to a $1.8 million reduction in its withdrawal liability under ERISA. The court interpreted a key provision regarding the transfer of unfunded vested benefits when employees switch unions.

Court of Appeals rules on housing discrimination case

The Second Circuit Court of Appeals ruled on a housing discrimination case involving CoreLogic Rental Property Solutions. The court vacated in part, affirmed in part, and reversed in part the district court's decision, impacting claims related to the Fair Housing Act and the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

United States v. William Jimenez - Sentencing Appeal

The Second Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed the district court's sentencing of William Jimenez to 105 months imprisonment and three years of supervised release. Jimenez appealed specific conditions of his supervised release and his sentence term, but the court found no abuse of discretion and upheld the appeal waiver.

Safdieh v. Commissioner - Tax Court Summary Judgment Vacated

The Second Circuit Court of Appeals vacated a Tax Court order that granted summary judgment to Joseph Safdieh, ruling that the Commissioner of Internal Revenue may assess penalties under I.R.C. § 6038(b) for failing to report foreign business control. The court remanded the case for further proceedings.

SBK ART LLC v. Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP - Discovery for Foreign Litigation

The Second Circuit affirmed a district court's order granting SBK ART LLC's petition for discovery under 28 U.S.C. §1782 for use in foreign litigation. The court disagreed with Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP's argument that discovery should be denied if not discoverable from the foreign client.

OFAC Designates Rwanda Defence Force and Officials; Issues General License

The US Treasury's OFAC has designated the Rwanda Defence Force and four Rwandan officials under its Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) List for actions related to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. OFAC also issued DRC-related General License 1 to authorize the wind-down of transactions involving the Rwanda Defence Force.

NY AG Releases Top 10 Consumer Complaints and Fraud Categories of 2025

New York Attorney General Letitia James released the top 10 consumer complaints received in 2025, highlighting fraud in retail, housing, automobile, internet, and banking. The notice also provides tips for consumers to avoid scams and urges reporting of fraudulent practices.