Every decision we've summarized from United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit.
The Fourth Circuit affirmed the denial of habeas relief, holding that a juror's comments about knowing the defendant's family and fearing for their safety were internal to the deliberation process. The court ruled that the West Virginia Supreme Court did not unreasonably apply federal precedent in finding this conduct did not constitute impermissible external influence.
The Fourth Circuit affirmed the denial of Marcus Taylor's federal post-conviction relief motion, ruling that his challenges to the sufficiency of evidence were procedurally barred. The court further held that Taylor failed to demonstrate ineffective assistance of counsel or the need for an evidentiary hearing regarding his trial strategy claims.
The Fourth Circuit affirmed the district court's dismissal of a pro se employment discrimination complaint. The court held that any error in failing to consider an amended complaint was harmless because the amendment would have been futile.
The Fourth Circuit reversed a district court dismissal that held federal judges lacked the power to order systemic reforms in West Virginia's foster care system. The appellate court affirmed that federal courts have both the authority and the duty to remedy constitutional violations through comprehensive injunctive relief.
The Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed the district court's denial of Robert Peter Russell's motion for a new trial. The appellate court found no reversible error in the record to justify granting a new trial under Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 33.
The United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit affirmed the district court's denial of a motion for a new trial. The appellate court found no reversible error in the record after reviewing the case.