A selection of the need-to-know civil justice news for the week of March 12-18.

 

Obama Nominates Merrick B. Garland to the U.S. Supreme Court

On Wednesday, March 16, President Obama nominated Merrick B. Garland to the United States Supreme Court seat left vacant by Justice Antonin Scalia’s death last month. Click here for our round-up of some of the better news articles on Garland and what is expected to be a contentious confirmation process.

 

TGI Friday’s Case Hinges on Whether Lawyers ‘Manufactured’ Claims

Charles Toutant | New Jersey Law Journal

The viability of a putative class suit against T.G.I. Friday’s for failing to disclose beverage prices on its menu depends on whether the lead plaintiff bought his drink at the behest of his lawyers, a federal judge has ruled.

Full story.

 

Will SCOTUS Review High Counsel Fees in Low-Value Cases?

Perry Cooper | Bloomberg BNA

The proper method for determining attorneys’ fees for class counsel in low-value consumer settlements will be reviewed by the U.S. Supreme Court if one high-profile objector gets his way.

Full story.

 

Christie Attorney Sends Letter to Sweeney in N.J. Supreme Court Fight

Brent Johnson | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

Gov. Chris Christie’s office has fired the latest shot in the governor’s recently renewed spat with state Senate President Stephen Sweeney over filling a six-year vacancy on New Jersey’s highest court.

Full story.

 

Woman Asked for $15,200 Yearly Budget for Wine During Child-Support Case

Khushubu Shah | First We Feast

There’s no doubt that a few bottles of wine have helped many an estranged spouse get through a divorce, especially one that is public and high profile. However, seeking a multi-thousand-dollar wine budget to help you ease your sorrows and rear your child is questionable, to say the least.

Full story.

 

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