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A
Abbott v. PFLAG, Inc. (Court of Appeals for the Third District of Texas at Austin , 03-22-00420-CV 03-22-00857-CV)03-22-00420-CV 03-22-00857-CV)
Case Description: Gender-Affirming Care, and Child Abuse
NASW Supported: PFLAG, Inc. Appellees
Outcome: Pending
Date Brief Filed: 4/20/2023 12:00:00 AM
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    Adams v. St. John's School Board (U.S. Court of Appeals 11th Circuit, 18-13592)18-13592)
    Case Description: Transgender students use of facilities based on their gender identity.
    NASW Supported: Adams, Plaintiffs/Appellee
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 3/20/2023 12:00:00 AM
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    Adoption of M.A., et al. (Supreme Judicial Court of Maine, 930 A.2d 1088 (2007))930 A.2d 1088 (2007))
    Case Description: Maine case regarding adoption by same-sex couple
    NASW Supported: Adoptive couple
    Outcome: Court granted relief.
    Date Brief Filed: 9/16/2016 12:00:00 AM
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    Advocates for Children of New York v. Blum (United States District Court, S.D.N.Y., 529 F.Supp. 422 (1982))529 F.Supp. 422 (1982))
    Case Description: Advocates for Children sought to block automatic transfer of client records from private preventive services agency to government agencies
    NASW Supported: Advocates for Children of New York
    Outcome: Mixed 1/5/1982
    Date Brief Filed: 12/1/1981 12:00:00 AM
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    Aid for Women v. Foulston I (United States Court of Appeals, 10th Cir., No. 04-3310)No. 04-3310)
    Case Description: Kansas mandatory reporting of adolescent sexual activity
    NASW Supported: Aid for Women
    Outcome: Lost the appeal of preliminary injunction. Won on remand to district court.
    Date Brief Filed: 10/10/2014 12:00:00 AM
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    Aid for Women v. Foulston II (United States Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit Court , 06-3187, 06-3188 & 06-3202)06-3187, 06-3188 & 06-3202)
    Case Description: Kansas mandatory reporting of adolescent sexual activity
    NASW Supported: Aid for Women
    Outcome: Case dismissed upon mutual request of the parties. Also see brief filed in Aid for Women v. Foulston I
    Date Brief Filed: 2/5/2007 12:00:00 AM
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    Ankrom v. State (Court of Criminal Appeals of Alabama, CR-09-0395, 2011 Ala. Crim. App. LEXIS 67)CR-09-0395, 2011 Ala. Crim. App. LEXIS 67)
    Case Description: Challenge to criminal prosecution of Alabama woman for using drugs while pregnant.
    NASW Supported: Hope Ankrom
    Outcome: Lost. Court upheld conviction of chemical endangerment of a child. Appeal to Alabama S.Ct. pending.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/20/2022 12:00:00 AM
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    Ankrom v. State of Alabama (Supreme Court of Alabama, No. 11-10176)No. 11-10176)
    Case Description: Petition for review by state high court in a challenge to criminal prosecution of a woman who used illegal substances during pregnancy.
    NASW Supported: Hope Ankrom
    Outcome: Accepted for review.
    Date Brief Filed: 11/18/2011 12:00:00 AM
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    Anonymous v. Anonymous (Massachusetts Superior Court, No. 818152)No. 818152)
    Case Description: Massachusetts case addressing the statute of limitations for a tort action for childhood sexual abuse
    NASW Supported: Anonymous plaintiff
    Outcome: Won. Undisclosed settlement.
    Date Brief Filed: 2/1/1998 12:00:00 AM
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    Arnold v. Arnold (Georgia Supreme Court, 275 Ga. 354, 566 S.E.2d 679(2002))275 Ga. 354, 566 S.E.2d 679(2002))
    Case Description: Lesbian parenting case; right for children to associate with homosexual family friend
    NASW Supported: Arnold, Kimberly A.
    Outcome: Won. 7/15/2002
    Date Brief Filed: 6/11/2002 12:00:00 AM
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    Arrington-Bey v. City of Bedford Heights, et al (U.S. Court of Appeals - 6th Circuit, 16-3317)16-3317)
    Case Description: access to mental health care for detained/incarcerated
    NASW Supported: Arrington-Bay
    Outcome: Unfavorable
    Date Brief Filed: 5/1/2017 12:00:00 AM
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    B
    B.R. v F.C.S.B. (U.S. Court of Appeals 4th Circuit, 21-1005)21-1005)
    Case Description: Title IX claims as to sex discrimination, harassment, torture and rape in school should not be dismissed on a technicality
    NASW Supported: B.R.
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 12/6/2021 12:00:00 AM
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    Balow v Michigan State University (U.S. Court of Appeals 6th Circuit, 21-1183)21-1183)
    Case Description: Title IX Compliance
    NASW Supported: Balow
    Outcome: Unfavorable on remand 2/1/2022
    Date Brief Filed: 5/26/2021 12:00:00 AM
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    Barnes v. Barnes (Indiana Supreme Court, 603 N.E.2d 1337 (Ind. 1992))603 N.E.2d 1337 (Ind. 1992))
    Case Description: Civil lawsuit by daughter against father based on alleged assault and rape.
    NASW Supported: Polly Anna Barnes
    Outcome: Mixed. Court did not reach issue of whether to reject general parental tort immunity because this case involved intentional felonious conduct which precludes the privilege.
    Date Brief Filed: 3/8/1991 12:00:00 AM
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    Barrett v. Claycomb (United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit, 705 F.3d 315 (2013))705 F.3d 315 (2013))
    Case Description: Challenge to Linn State Technical College's mandatory suspicionless drug testing program for students
    NASW Supported: Michael Barrett, IV, et al.
    Outcome: Unfavorable. 11/23/1992 The court vacated the preliminary injunction., permitting the drug testing to commence.
    Date Brief Filed: 3/8/1991 12:00:00 AM
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    Baskin, et al. v. Zoeller, et al. (U.S. Court of Appeals 7th Circuit, 14-2386, 14-2387)14-2386, 14-2387)
    Case Description: Challenge to Indiana's and Wisconsin's ban on marriage for same sex couples
    NASW Supported: Plaintiff
    Outcome: Favorable decision 9/4/2014
    Date Brief Filed: 8/5/2014 12:00:00 AM
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    Berwick v. Wagner (Court of Appeals for the First District of Texas, No. 01-12-00872-CV)No. 01-12-00872-CV)
    Case Description: Texas case challenging the parental rights of a gay father whose parental relationship was established in California.
    NASW Supported: Wagner
    Outcome: Favorable 9/11/2014
    Date Brief Filed: 4/15/2013 12:00:00 AM
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    Biediger v. Quinnipiac University (U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, No. 10-3302-cv)No. 10-3302-cv)
    Case Description: Title IX appeal seeking affirmation of trial court's ruling that a university failed to provide proportionate sports participation opportunities to female students.
    NASW Supported: Biediger
    Outcome: Favorable. Court affirmed a finding that the university violated Title IX by failing to affored equal participation in varsity sports to female students.
    Date Brief Filed: 9/7/2011 12:00:00 AM
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  • Decision 8/7/2012
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    Bier v. Zahren (United States Court of Appeals, 10th Cir., No. 05-1268)No. 05-1268)
    Case Description: Social worker military subpoena for rape victim's civilian counseling records
    NASW Supported: Bier
    Outcome: Lost, but case referred back to military court which eventually did not enforce subpoena. Rape prosecution dismissed.
    Date Brief Filed: 6/5/2005 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Motion for Stay
  • Motion for Leave
  • Psychotherapist-Patient Privilege in the Military (2005 LDF Legal Article)
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    Blake v. Langer (California Court of Appeal Second Appellate District Divisioin Four, B313775)B313775)
    Case Description: Meredith Blake is appealing a lower court's decision that denied her request for a protective order against her ex-husband due to his violent behavior during a mental health therapy session.
    NASW Supported: Blake, Appellant & Cross-Respondent
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 8/9/2022 12:00:00 AM
  • Application to File Amicus Brief
  • Proposed Amicus Brief
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    Blessing v. Freestone (United States Supreme Court, 117 S.Ct. 1353 (1997))117 S.Ct. 1353 (1997))
    Case Description: Federal civil rights action against Arizona child support agency for failure to collect child support
    NASW Supported: Freestone
    Outcome: Lost. Court found that Title IV-D of the Social Security Act does not give individuals a federal right to force state agency to substantially comply with its provisions. 4/21/1997
    Date Brief Filed: 10/1/1996 12:00:00 AM
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    Boseman v. Jarrell (North Carolina Court of Appeals, 681 S.E.2d 374 (2009) )681 S.E.2d 374 (2009) )
    Case Description: North Carolina child custody case supporting adoption by same-sex partner
    NASW Supported: Boseman
    Outcome: Won. Court upheld validity of adoption, but see appeal to N.C. Sup.Ct..
    Date Brief Filed: 10/31/2008 12:00:00 AM
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    Boseman v. Jarrell (Supreme Court of North Carolina, No. 416PA08-2)No. 416PA08-2)
    Case Description: Applicability of North Carolina adoption laws to parents in same-sex relationships and finality of adoptions.
    NASW Supported: Boseman
    Outcome: Mixed. Court held that adoption was void, but upheld award of shared child custody with biological and non-biological moms.
    Date Brief Filed: 3/26/2010 12:00:00 AM
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    Bostic v. Schaefer (U.S. Court of Appeals 4th Circuit, 14-1167)14-1167)
    Case Description: Challenge to the constitutionality of the Virginia law banning same sex marriage was upheld on appeal permitting same sex marriage in Virginia
    NASW Supported:
    Outcome: Favorable decision 7/28/14
    Date Brief Filed: 4/8/2014 12:00:00 AM
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    Boswell v. Boswell (Maryland Court of Appeals, 352 Md. 204, 721 A.2d 662 (Md. 1998))352 Md. 204, 721 A.2d 662 (Md. 1998))
    Case Description: Maryland gay father's visitation rights
    NASW Supported: Robert Boswell
    Outcome: Won 12/18/1998
    Date Brief Filed: 5/13/1998 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • What Are the Rights of Children in Gay and Lesbian Families? (2002 LDF Legal Article)
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    Bottoms v. Bottoms (Virginia Supreme Court, 444 S.E.2d 276 (Va. 1995))444 S.E.2d 276 (Va. 1995))
    Case Description: Virginia lesbian child custody case
    NASW Supported: Sharon Lynne Bottoms
    Outcome: Lost. 6/21/1994
    Date Brief Filed: 12/27/1994 12:00:00 AM
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    Bowen v. Gilliard (United States Supreme Court, 483 U.S. 587, 107 S.Ct. 3008 (1987))483 U.S. 587, 107 S.Ct. 3008 (1987))
    Case Description: Child support for families receiving AFDC
    NASW Supported: Gilliard
    Outcome: Lost. 6/25/1987
    Date Brief Filed: 3/25/1987 12:00:00 AM
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    Bragdon v. Abbott (United States Supreme Court, 524 U.S. 624, 118 S.Ct. 2196 (1998))524 U.S. 624, 118 S.Ct. 2196 (1998))
    Case Description: AIDS discrimination in dental treatment
    NASW Supported: Abbott
    Outcome: Mixed. Court found HIV status to constitute disability, but remanded for additional facts and analysis.
    Date Brief Filed: 2/6/1998 12:00:00 AM
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    Brenner et al v. Armstrong et al (U.S. Court of Appeals 11th Circuit, 14-14061-AA, 14-14066-AA)14-14061-AA, 14-14066-AA)
    Case Description: Marriage equality for same sex couples
    NASW Supported: Brenner - Plaintiffs/Appellees
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 12/19/2014 12:00:00 AM
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    Briscoe v. Prince George's County Health Department (Maryland Court of Appeals, 323 Md. 439, 593 A.2d 1109 (1991))323 Md. 439, 593 A.2d 1109 (1991))
    Case Description: Maryland equal protection claim for pay equity of clinical social workers
    NASW Supported: NASW did not file a brief, but provided assistance to Clinical Society
    Outcome: Lost. 8/19/1991
    Date Brief Filed: 1/1/1991 12:00:00 AM
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    Brown v Arizona (U.S. Court of Appeals 9th Circuit, 20-15568)20-15568)
    Case Description: Failure of a University to take action after known abuse. Title IX "control-over-context" requirements and Survivors' Rights
    NASW Supported: Appellant Brown
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 6/14/2022 12:00:00 AM
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    Brown v. Shasta Union High School District (Court of Appeal of the State of California, Third Appellate District, C061972)C061972)
    Case Description: Case challenging suspicionless drug testing requirement for high school extracurricular activities.
    NASW Supported: Brown, et al
    Outcome: Won prelimiinjun 4/6/2004
    Date Brief Filed: 8/2/2022 12:00:00 AM
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    C.E.W. v. D.E.W. (Maine Supreme Judicial Court, 845 A.2d 1146, 2004 ME 43 (2004))845 A.2d 1146, 2004 ME 43 (2004))
    Case Description: Maine lesbian de facto parent case
    NASW Supported: C.E.W.
    Outcome: Won. Court found that C.E.W. was de facto parent to partner's child.
    Date Brief Filed: 12/20/2002 12:00:00 AM
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    C.K. v. Shalala (U.S. District Court, D.N.J. 5/4/1995, 883 F.Supp 991 (D.N.J 1995), aff'd, 92 F.3d 171(3d Cir. 1996))883 F.Supp 991 (D.N.J 1995), aff'd, 92 F.3d 171(3d Cir. 1996))
    Case Description: New Jersey challenge to welfare reform family cap provision
    NASW Supported: C.K.
    Outcome: Lost 8/9/1996
    Date Brief Filed: 9/23/1994 12:00:00 AM
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    C.K. v. Shalala (United States Court of Appeals, 3rd Cir., 92 F.3d 171(3d Cir. 1996))92 F.3d 171(3d Cir. 1996))
    Case Description: New Jersey challenge to welfare reform family cap provision
    NASW Supported: C.K.
    Outcome: Lost 5/4/1995
    Date Brief Filed: 9/23/1994 12:00:00 AM
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    California Dental Association v. FTC (United States Supreme Court, 526 U.S. 756 (1999))526 U.S. 756 (1999))
    Case Description: Ethical Standards that discourage deceptive advertising
    NASW Supported: California Dental Association
    Outcome: Mixed. Court found that FTC has jurisdiction over professional associations, but agreed with NASW's position that the "quick look" rule-of-reason analysis was not appropriate to apply to ethical standards that discourage deceptive advertising. 5/26/1999
    Date Brief Filed: 11/10/1998 12:00:00 AM
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    California v HHS (U.S. Court of Appeals 9th Circuit, 18-15144)18-15144)
    Case Description: Allowing organizations under the Exemption Rules of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) the right to refuse access to and coverage for women's contraception based on religious reasons.
    NASW Supported: Plaintiffs/Appellees, State of California
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 5/7/2019 12:00:00 AM
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    California v. Hargan (U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, 17-CV-057830HSG)17-CV-057830HSG)
    Case Description: Allowing organizations and businesses, under the Exemption Rules of the ACA, the right to refuse on religious reasons, access to and coverage for women's contraception.
    NASW Supported: Plaintiffs, States of California, Delaware, Maryland, New York, Virginia
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 12/6/2017 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Opinion 12/21/2017
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    California v. HHS (U.S. Court of Appeals 9th Circuit, 19-15118)19-15118)
    Case Description: Allowing organzations under the Exemption Rules of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) the right to refuse access to and coverage for women's contraception based on religious reasons.
    NASW Supported: California
    Outcome: Favorable 12/13/2018
    Date Brief Filed: 5/25/2018 12:00:00 AM
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    California v. HHS (U.S. District Court Northern District, 4:17-CV-05783)4:17-CV-05783)
    Case Description: Allowing organizations under the Exemption Rules of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) the right to refuse access to and coverage for women's contraception based on religious reasons.
    NASW Supported: California
    Outcome: Favorable 12/13/2018
    Date Brief Filed: 5/25/2018 12:00:00 AM
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    California v. Trump (U.S. District Court Northern District of CA, 4:17 - CV- 05783-HSG)4:17 - CV- 05783-HSG)
    Case Description: Organizations refusal to provide access to and coverage of contraception based on religious exemptions under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
    NASW Supported: California
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 1/7/2019 12:00:00 AM
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    Campbell v. Sundquist (Tennessee Court of Appeals, 926 S.W.2d 250 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1996))926 S.W.2d 250 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1996))
    Case Description: Tennessee challenge to anti-homosexual criminal law
    NASW Supported: Campbell
    Outcome: Won 6/10/1996 Homosexual Practices Act is unconstitutional 6/10/1996
    Date Brief Filed: 10/9/1995 12:00:00 AM
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    Carolina Youth Action Project (CYAP) v Wilson (U.S. Court of Appeals 4th Circuit, 21-2166)21-2166)
    Case Description: Challenging South Carolina's laws that promote discriminatory school discipline. Mainly pertaining to the state's "disorderly conduct" law.
    NASW Supported: California Youth Action Project
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 3/23/2022 12:00:00 AM
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    Cassidy v. Smith (Colorado Court of Appeals, 817 P.2d 555 (Colo. 1991))817 P.2d 555 (Colo. 1991))
    Case Description: Colorado civil action by alleged incest victims against parent perpetrator
    NASW Supported: Cassidy
    Outcome: Mixed; 6-year statute of limitations applied, which began to run on date plaintiffs reached age of majority, plaintiffs allowed to amend complaint to identify incidents which occurred within 6 years prior to filing lawsuit. 3/28/1991
    Date Brief Filed: 4/11/1989 12:00:00 AM
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  • Decisioin 3/28/1991
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    Catherine D.W. v. Deanna C.S. (also captioned as In the Interest of T.P.S. (Illinois Appellate Court for the Fifth District, No. 05-10-0617)No. 05-10-0617)
    Case Description: Legal challenge to termination of guardianship for children parented by an Illinois lesbian couple
    NASW Supported: Catherine D.W.
    Outcome: Preliminary victory. Court reversed the termination of guardianship and remanded for a decision based on the best interests of the children.
    Date Brief Filed: 3/1/2011 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief Decided 5/11/2011
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    Catherine D.W. v. Deanna C.S. (also captioned as In the matter of T.P.S. and K.M.S.) (Illinois Appellate Court for the Fifth District, 2012 IL App (5TH) 120176; 2012 Ill App. LEXIS 830)2012 IL App (5TH) 120176; 2012 Ill App. LEXIS 830)
    Case Description: Illinois case where lesbian parent is seeking judicial recognition of parental status based on an established parental relationship with the children born to her former partner
    NASW Supported: Catherine D.W.
    Outcome: Favorable. Court found right for same-sex parent to seek custody and visitation of children she co-parented.
    Date Brief Filed: 6/4/2012 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Motion for Leave to File Amicus Brief
  • Court Decision 10/9/2012
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    Catholic Charities v. Illinois (Circuit Court for the Seventh Judicial District, Sangamon County, 11-MR-254)11-MR-254)
    Case Description: Case represents an attempt by religious child welfare agency to compel the state to continue contracting to provide services that discriminate against gay and lesbian and unmarried couples in child placement decisions.
    NASW Supported: Illinois
    Outcome: Won. Court denied child welfare agency's motion for summary judgment and ruled that there is not a right to contract with the government.
    Date Brief Filed: 8/15/2011 12:00:00 AM
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  • Court Decision 8/18/2011
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    Chase v Nodine's Smokehhouse, Inc. (U.S. Court of Appeals 2nd Circuit, 20-3234-cv)20-3234-cv)
    Case Description: Rights of survivors of sexual assault, particularly those who are low-wage workers, to fair, impartial treatment both in the workplace and when reporting sexual assault to the police, including challenge to qualified immunity for police as to Equal Protec
    NASW Supported: Chase
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 3/23/2021 12:00:00 AM
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    Chatterjee v. King (Supreme Court of the State of New Mexico, No. 32,789)No. 32,789)
    Case Description: New Mexico child custody case involving lesbian mothers.
    NASW Supported: Bani Chatterjee
    Outcome: Favorable. Non-biological mother permitted to pursue child custody/visitation claims under Uniform Parentage Law. 10/4/2021 6/1/2012
    Date Brief Filed: 5/3/2011 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Decision Court Order 6/1/2012
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    Citizens for Equal Protection v. Bruning (United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit, 455 F.3d 859 (2006))455 F.3d 859 (2006))
    Case Description: Nebraska challenge to same-sex marriage ban
    NASW Supported: Citizens for Equal Protection
    Outcome: Lost. Ban on same-sex marriage found not to violate rights
    Date Brief Filed: 11/9/2005 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Review of State Balloting on Marriage for Same-Sex Couples (2005 LDF Legal Article)
  • Decision 7/14/2006
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    Citizens for Health v. Leavitt (United States Court of Appeals, 3rd Circuit, 428 F.3d 167 (2005))428 F.3d 167 (2005))
    Case Description: Challenge to HIPAA medical privacy regulations
    NASW Supported: Citizens for Health
    Outcome: Lost. 10/31/2005
    Date Brief Filed: 9/1/2004 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    City of Chicago v. Beretta (Illinois Appellate Court, 785 N.E.2d 16 (Ill. App. Ct. 2003), rev'd, Nos. 95243, 95253, 95280, 2004 WL 2609699 (Ill. Nov. 18, 2004))785 N.E.2d 16 (Ill. App. Ct. 2003), rev'd, Nos. 95243, 95253, 95280, 2004 WL 2609699 (Ill. Nov. 18, 2004))
    Case Description: Liability of gun manufacturers for handgun violence
    NASW Supported: City of Chicago
    Outcome: Won, but later reversed on appeal.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/31/2001 12:00:00 AM
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    City of Edmonds v. Washington State Building Code Council (United States Supreme Court, 514 U.S. 725 (1995))514 U.S. 725 (1995))
    Case Description: Fair Housing case regarding group home accomodation
    NASW Supported: Washington State Building Code Council
    Outcome: Won. Court affirmed appellate court ruling that city's failure to make reasonable accomodation for group home violated FHA.
    Date Brief Filed: 10/1/1994 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Supreme Court Decision 5/15/1995
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    Cochran v. Commonwealth of Kentucky (Kentucky Supreme Court, 2008-SC-000095, -- S.W.3d --, 2010 WL 2470870)2008-SC-000095, -- S.W.3d --, 2010 WL 2470870)
    Case Description: Kentucky case challenging the criminal prosecution of a woman who continued her pregnancy in spite of a drug addiction.
    NASW Supported: Cochran
    Outcome: Criminal indictment for ingesting illegal drugs while pregnant was invalid. 6/17/2010
    Date Brief Filed: 2/23/2009 12:00:00 AM
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    Colchester v Lazaro (U.S. Court of Appeals 9th Cir. , 21-35210)21-35210)
    Case Description: Domestic Violence
    NASW Supported: Lazaro
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 5/14/2021 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Decision 10/22/2021Text
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    Commonwealth of Pennsylvania v. Trump (U.S. District COurt for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, 2:17-CV-04540-WB)2:17-CV-04540-WB)
    Case Description: Allowing organizations, non-profits, and businesses, under the Exemption Rules of the ACA, the right to refuse on religious reasons, access to and coverage for women's contraception
    NASW Supported: Plaintiff, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 11/27/2017 12:00:00 AM
  • Opinion 12/15/2017
  • Text of Brief
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    Commonwealth of Virginia v. Sebelius (United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, Nos. 11-1057 & 11-1058)Nos. 11-1057 & 11-1058)
    Case Description: Challenge by Commonwealth of Virginia to federal health reform law alleging violation of the Commerce Clause.
    NASW Supported: Kathleen Sebelius, Secretary of DHHS
    Outcome: Court ruled that Virginia lacked legal standing to file the complaint and remanded the case for dismissal.
    Date Brief Filed: 3/7/2011 12:00:00 AM
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    Commonwealth of Virginia, State of Illinois and State of Nevada v Ferriero (United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, 21-5096)21-5096)
    Case Description: Equal Right Amendment's fight for equality and against sex-based discrimination
    NASW Supported: Commonwealth of Virginia, State of Illinois and State of Nevada
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 1/10/2022 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Commonwealth v. Collett (Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, 387 Mass. 424 (1982), ans. to cert. question, 17 Mass. App.Ct. 913 (1983), rev. denied, 439 N.E.2d 1223 (Mass. 1984))387 Mass. 424 (1982), ans. to cert. question, 17 Mass. App.Ct. 913 (1983), rev. denied, 439 N.E.2d 1223 (Mass. 1984))
    Case Description: Massachusetts "contemplation or commission of crime" exception to social workert-patient privilege
    NASW Supported: Collett
    Outcome: Mixed; defendant was able to claim social worker privilege, but exception for commission of a crime required social worker to testify
    Date Brief Filed: 4/21/1982 12:00:00 AM
  • Amicus Curiae Brief
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    Commonwealth v. Fuller (Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, 667 N.E.2d 847 (Mass. 1996))667 N.E.2d 847 (Mass. 1996))
    Case Description: Privileged communication for rape crisis counseling clients in Massachusetts
    NASW Supported: Rape Crisis Center of Central Massachusetts, Inc.
    Outcome: Won; defendant did not establish threshold showing sufficient to warrant in camera inspection of counseling records.
    Date Brief Filed: 5/3/1996 12:00:00 AM
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  • Text of Brief Decision 7_17_1996
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    Community Service Society v. Welfare Inspector General of New York (New York Supreme Court, Appellate Division, 411 N.Y.S.2d 188 (N.Y. 1978))411 N.Y.S.2d 188 (N.Y. 1978))
    Case Description: New York social worker-client confidentiality case.
    NASW Supported: Community Service Society
    Outcome: Won 11/27/1978 Unanimously affirmed lower court order granting motions to quash subpoena on the ground of social worker-client privilege.
    Date Brief Filed: 10/18/1978 12:00:00 AM
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    Conaway v. Deane & Polyak (Maryland Court of Appeals, 401 Md. 219 (2007))401 Md. 219 (2007))
    Case Description: Maryland same-sex marriage case.
    NASW Supported: Deane and Polyak, et al.
    Outcome: Court denied relief and held that there is not a fundamental right to same-sex marriage.
    Date Brief Filed: 10/19/2006 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Court of Appeals Decision 9/18/2007
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    Conde-Vidal v. Ruis-Armendariz (U.S. Court of Appeals 1st Circuit, 14-2184)14-2184)
    Case Description: Marriage equality for same sex couples
    NASW Supported: Conde-Vidal -- Plaintiff/Appellant
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 2/2/2015 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Decision 7/8/2015
  • Order 4/7/2016
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    Conover v. Conover (Court of Special Appeals in Maryland, 79)79)
    Case Description: Protecting familial attachments between LGBT couples and their children. Recognizing the important role that parent-child attachments play in the healthy psycho-social development and well-being of children.
    NASW Supported: Petitioner - Conover
    Outcome: favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 2/25/2016 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Text of Brief
  • Decision 7/7/2016
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    Corbitt v Taylor (U.S. Court of Appeals 11th Cir. , 21-10486)21-10486)
    Case Description: Transgender Rights
    NASW Supported: Corbitt
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 8/3/2021 12:00:00 AM
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    Cote-Whitacre v. Dept of Public Health (Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, 446 Mass. 350, 844 N.E.2d 623 (2006))446 Mass. 350, 844 N.E.2d 623 (2006))
    Case Description: Applicability of same-sex marriage rights in Massachusetts to non-residents couples
    NASW Supported: Cote-Whitacre, et al.
    Outcome: Narrow win.
    Date Brief Filed: 3/11/2005 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief Decided 3/30/2006
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    Cox v. Dry (Florida Supreme Court, 656 So.2d 902 (Fla. 1995))656 So.2d 902 (Fla. 1995))
    Case Description: Florida gay adoption of special needs child
    NASW Supported: Cox
    Outcome: Mixed: decision of district court approved in part and quashed in part. Case remanded for completetion of record to determinewhether statute can be sustained against constitutional attack.
    Date Brief Filed: 5/13/1994 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief Decided 4/27/1995
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    Crawley v. Catoe (United States Court of Appeals, 4th Cir., 257 F.3d 395 (4th Cir. 2001))257 F.3d 395 (4th Cir. 2001))
    Case Description: South Carolina prosecution of pregnant drug abuser and habeas corpus relief
    NASW Supported: Crawley
    Outcome: Lost. Judgment of district court dismissing petition for habeas corpus affirmed. 12/7/2000
    Date Brief Filed: 6/28/2000 12:00:00 AM
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    Cristello v St. Theresa School (Supreme Court of New Jersey , 085213)085213)
    Case Description: Civil Rights
    NASW Supported: Cristello
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 8/4/2021 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Cruz v. State (Court of Appeals of Maryland, No. 443)No. 443)
    Case Description: Maryland prosecution of pregnant substance abuser who delivered low birth-weight infant
    NASW Supported: Cruz
    Outcome: Won. (Court of Special Appeals brief was forwarded to Court of Appeals) 8/3/2006
    Date Brief Filed: 11/29/2005 12:00:00 AM
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    Cureton v. National Collegiate Athletic Association (United States Court of Appeals, 3rd Cir., 252 F.3d 267 (E.D. Pa. 2001))252 F.3d 267 (E.D. Pa. 2001))
    Case Description: Racial discrimination in college athletics
    NASW Supported: Cureton
    Outcome: Lost. District Court did not abuse its discretion in denying plaintiff's motion to alter or amend summary judgment and for contemporaneous leave to file a second amended complaint. 5/16/2001
    Date Brief Filed: 6/8/1999 12:00:00 AM
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    Curran v. Mount Diablo Council of the Boy Scouts (California Supreme Court, 952 P.2d 218 (Cal. 1998))952 P.2d 218 (Cal. 1998))
    Case Description: Boy Scout gay scout leader discrimination challenge
    NASW Supported: Curran
    Outcome: Lost. 3/23/198
    Date Brief Filed: 10/19/1995 12:00:00 AM
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    D
    D.M.T. v. T.M.H. (Supreme Court of Florida, SC12-261)SC12-261)
    Case Description: Florida case seeking recognition of parenting rights for biological mother whose ova was implanted in her same-sex partner, who is the child's birth mother.
    NASW Supported: T.M.H.
    Outcome: Favorable. Court struck down law as unconstitutional which does not permit same-sex couples from qualifying as a "commisioning couple" within the asssited reproductive technology statute. 11/7/2013
    Date Brief Filed: 5/21/2012 12:00:00 AM
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    Dale v. Boy Scouts of America (New Jersey Superior Court, App. Div., 530 U.S. 640 (2000))530 U.S. 640 (2000))
    Case Description: New Jersey gay scout leader discrmination case
    NASW Supported: Dale
    Outcome: Lost 6/28/2000
    Date Brief Filed: 3/29/2000 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Dalrymple v. Brown (Pennsylvania Supreme Court, 701 A.2d 164 (Pa. 1997))701 A.2d 164 (Pa. 1997))
    Case Description: Civil lawsuit by Pennsylvania child sexual abuse victim against alleged perpetrator
    NASW Supported: Dalrymple
    Outcome: Lost. Discovery rule does not toll statute of limitations during years of Plaintiff's repressed memory. 8/25/1997
    Date Brief Filed: 10/2/1996 12:00:00 AM
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    Daugherty v. Wallace (Ohio Court of Appeals, 621 N.E.2d 1374 (1993))621 N.E.2d 1374 (1993))
    Case Description: Constitutional challenge to Ohio state time limits on welfare benefits
    NASW Supported: Daugherty
    Outcome: Lost. State Constitution does not create affirmative duty for state to provide assistance; time limit for benefits did not violate equal protection rights. 4/16/1993
    Date Brief Filed: 4/22/1992 12:00:00 AM
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    Davies v. Davies (U.S. Court of Appeals 2nd Circuit, 17-466)17-466)
    Case Description: Domestic violence and the effects of exposure and the impact on children.
    NASW Supported: Respondent, Appellee Sally Davies
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 9/21/2017 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Opinion 3/3/2006
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    Davis v. Alabama (Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals, --- So.2d ----, 2006 WL 510508, (Ala.Crim.App., March 03, 2006))--- So.2d ----, 2006 WL 510508, (Ala.Crim.App., March 03, 2006))
    Case Description: Death penalty post-conviction proceeding challenging exclusion of social work expert's notebook exhibit
    NASW Supported: Jimmy Davis, Jr.
    Outcome: Lost on procedural grounds.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/21/2005 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • NASW Reply Brief
  • NASW Motion to File Amicus Brief
  • Court of Appeals Decision 3/3/2006
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    Davis v. Alabama (Supreme Court of Alabama, --- So.2d ----, 2008 WL 5046928 (CR-03-2086))--- So.2d ----, 2008 WL 5046928 (CR-03-2086))
    Case Description: Death penalty postconviction case involving a social worker's sentence mitigation report.
    NASW Supported: Jimmy Davis, Jr.
    Outcome: Lost. Cert. denied. 11/26/2008 Also see 2005 brief filed in Court of Criminal Appeals
    Date Brief Filed: 8/26/2008 12:00:00 AM
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    Deane v. Conaway (Circuit Court for Baltimore City, Maryland, Not Reported in A.2d, 2006 WL 148145)Not Reported in A.2d, 2006 WL 148145)
    Case Description: Maryland same-sex marriage challenge
    NASW Supported: Deane and Polyak, et al.
    Outcome: Won, but reversed on appeal. See Conaway v. Deane.
    Date Brief Filed: 6/14/2005 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • What Do the Courts Say about Same-Sex Marriage? (2004 LDF Legal Article)
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    Debra H. v. Janice R. (1st Brief) (New York Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department, No. 106569/08)No. 106569/08)
    Case Description: Child custody case involving lesbian couple in New York.
    NASW Supported: Debra H.
    Outcome: Lost. Court denied standing to Debra H., but see brief in Motion to Appeal.
    Date Brief Filed: 2/26/2009 12:00:00 AM
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  • NASW Motion to File Amicus Brief
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    Debra H. v. Janice R. (2nd Brief) (New York Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department, No. 106569/08 )No. 106569/08 )
    Case Description: Child custody case involving lesbian couple in New York.
    NASW Supported: Debra H.
    Outcome: Motion to Appeal denied by appellate court (but see Motion to Appeal filed in Court of Appeals
    Date Brief Filed: 5/18/2009 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Motion to File Brief
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    Debra H. v. Janice R. (3rd Brief) (New York Court of Appeals, No. 2009-773, No. 10569/08 in case below)No. 2009-773, No. 10569/08 in case below)
    Case Description: De facto” parent case involving lesbian couple in New York
    NASW Supported: Debra H.
    Outcome: Motion to Appeal granted; appeals brief pending
    Date Brief Filed: 7/27/2009 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Debra H. v. Janice R. (4th Brief) (Court of Appeals of the State of New York, No, 106569/08)No, 106569/08)
    Case Description: New York "de facto" parent case regarding lesbian couple
    NASW Supported: Debra H.
    Outcome: Court granted parental status to non-biological parent.
    Date Brief Filed: 11/16/2009 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Motion for Leave to File
  • Court of Appeals Decision
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    DeKalb Board of Realtors, Inc. v. Thompson (United States Supreme Court, 506 U.S. 903 (1992))506 U.S. 903 (1992))
    Case Description: Challenge by realtor to requirement mandating membership in realtor board in order to gain access to multi-listing service
    NASW Supported: DeKalb Bd. Of Realtors, Inc.
    Outcome: Motion for leave to file amicus brief granted; petition for cert. U.S. Court of Appeals for 11th Cir denied. 10/5/1992
    Date Brief Filed: 2/7/1992 12:00:00 AM
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    DeLeon v Perry (U.S. Court of Appeals 5th Circuit Texas, 14-50196)14-50196)
    Case Description: Texas marriage equality case
    NASW Supported: DeLeon - Plaintiff/Appellees
    Outcome: Favorable 7/1/2015
    Date Brief Filed: 9/15/2014 12:00:00 AM
  • Decision 7/1/2015
  • Brief
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    Demkovich v. St. Andrew the Apostle Parish, Calumet City, and the Archdiocese of Chicago (U.S. Court of Appeals 7th Circuit, 19-2142)19-2142)
    Case Description: Ministerial Exceptions, Civil Rights Employment
    NASW Supported: Demkovich
    Outcome: Unfavorable
    Date Brief Filed: 1/6/2021 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Text Decision 7/9/2021 Text
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    Deotte v. Azar (U.S. District Court Northern District of Texas, 4:18-CV-00825-0)4:18-CV-00825-0)
    Case Description: MSJ, Exemption Rules of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) allowing businesses, organizations, and nonprofits the right to refuse access and coverage for women contraception based on religious reasons.
    NASW Supported: Azar, Defendant
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 5/24/2019 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Deotte v. Nevada (U.S. Court of Appeals 5th Circuit, 19-0754)19-0754)
    Case Description: Exemption Rules of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) allowing businesses, organizations, and nonprofits the right to refuse access and coverage for women contraception based on religious reasons.
    NASW Supported: Nevada, Appellant
    Outcome: Unfavorable Vacate the judgment. Dismiss at Moot See Little Sisters
    Date Brief Filed: 12/30/2019 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Decision 12/17/2021
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    Department of Human Services v. Howard (Supreme Court of Arkansas, 238 S.W.3d 1 (2006) )238 S.W.3d 1 (2006) )
    Case Description: Arkansas gay foster parent case
    NASW Supported: Howard
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 12/19/2005 12:00:00 AM
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    Disability Advocates, Inc. v. New York Coalition for Quality Assisted Living (United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, 675 F.3d 149 (E.D. New York 2012))675 F.3d 149 (E.D. New York 2012))
    Case Description: Legal challenge on behalf of mentally ill residents of New York "adult homes" alleging violations of ADA and Rehabilitation Act and seeking placement in community programs
    NASW Supported: Disability Advocates, Inc.
    Outcome: Dismissed for lack of standing. 4/6/2012
    Date Brief Filed: 10/13/2010 12:00:00 AM
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    Doe v Abbott (Court of Appeals for the Third District of Texas at Austin, 03--22-00126-CV)03--22-00126-CV)
    Case Description: Texas Anti Transgender Laws that allow Texas DFPS to conduct child abuse investigations on families that seek gender affirming health care for their trans children
    NASW Supported: Doe
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 6/14/2022 12:00:00 AM
  • Amicus Curiae Brief Emergency Motion for Temporary Injunctive Relief
  • TRO
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    Doe v. Babcock (Michigan Supreme Court, 487 N.W.2d 166 (Mich. 1992))487 N.W.2d 166 (Mich. 1992))
    Case Description: use of public funds to pay for an abortion not necessary to save the mother's life
    NASW Supported: Doe
    Outcome: Lost. 6/9/1992
    Date Brief Filed: 10/9/1991 12:00:00 AM
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    Doe v. Boyertown Area School District, et al (U.S. Court of Appeals 3rd Circuit, 17-3113)17-3113)
    Case Description: Discrimination case pertaining to gender identity/expression in schools.
    NASW Supported: Defendant/Appellee, Boyertown Area School District
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 1/23/2018 12:00:00 AM
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    Doe v. Delaware (United States Supreme Court, 450 U.S. 382 (1981))450 U.S. 382 (1981))
    Case Description: Challenge to Delaware law regarding termination of parental rights
    NASW Supported: Doe, Appellants
    Outcome: Dismissed 3/9/1981 for want of a properly presented federal question. Request for rehearing denied.
    Date Brief Filed: 6/6/1980 12:00:00 AM
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    Doe v. Fairfax (Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals, 19-2203)19-2203)
    Case Description: Challenged the ‘actual knowledge’ standard for school’s response to Title IX allegations of sexual assault or harassment
    NASW Supported: Doe, plaintiff
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 12/3/2021 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Decision 8/31/2020 Text
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    Doe v. LaBrosse (Rhode Island Supreme Court, 588 A.2d 605 (R.I. 1991))588 A.2d 605 (R.I. 1991))
    Case Description: Civil lawsuit by victims of child sexual abuse against father as alleged perpetrator; statute of limitations issue addressed
    NASW Supported: Doe
    Outcome: Mixed. Remanded to Superior Court for trial judge to make factual determination of when plaintiff's discovery of harm occurred. 3/27/1991
    Date Brief Filed: 12/18/1990 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Decision 3/27/1991
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    Doe v. Trump (U.S. District Court for D.C., 17-CV-1597-CKK)17-CV-1597-CKK)
    Case Description: Blocking of the proposed ban on military service for transgender people, claiming the violation of the 5th Amendment equal protection and due process clauses.
    NASW Supported: Plaintiffs, Doe
    Outcome: Favorable, in part
    Date Brief Filed: 10/4/2017 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Opinion 10/30/2017
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    Doyle v. Hogan (U.S. Court of Appeals FourthCircuit, 19-2064)19-2064)
    Case Description: Challenge to laws in Boca Raton and Palm Beach, Florida banning mental health providers from engaging in conversion therapy with minors.
    NASW Supported: Defendants/Appellees, Hogan
    Outcome: Unfavorable
    Date Brief Filed: 12/6/2021 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Decision 6/15/2021 Text
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    E
    E.O. v. L.M. (Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, 711 N.E.2d 886 (1999))711 N.E.2d 886 (1999))
    Case Description: Massachusetts lesbian child-custody case
    NASW Supported: E.O.
    Outcome: Won. 6/29/1999 Trial court had equity jurisdiction to grant visitation between child and
    Date Brief Filed: 2/22/1999 12:00:00 AM
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    Earls v. Board of Education (United States Court of Appeals, 10th Cir., 242 F.3d 1264 (10th Cir. 2001), rev'd, 536 U.S. 822 (2002).)242 F.3d 1264 (10th Cir. 2001), rev'd, 536 U.S. 822 (2002).)
    Case Description: Constitutional challenge to school system's suspicionless drug testing requirement for student athletes.
    NASW Supported: Earls
    Outcome: Won, 3/21/2001 but case was later overturned on appeal. Appeals court found school's suspicionless drug testing violated students' 4th Amendment rights.
    Date Brief Filed: 8/4/2002 12:00:00 AM
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    Earls v. Board of Education (United States Supreme Court, 536 U.S. 822 (2002))536 U.S. 822 (2002))
    Case Description: Constitutional challenge to school system's suspicionless drug testing requirement for student athletes. Appeal of Earls v. Tecumseh.
    NASW Supported: Earls
    Outcome: Lost. 6/27/2002 School's suspicion less drug testing did not violate 4th amendment.
    Date Brief Filed: 2/6/2002 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    East High Gay/Straight Alliance v. Board of Education
    Case Description: Interpretation of Equal Access Act for student access to school premises for gay/straight alliance
    NASW Supported: East High Gay/Straight Alliance
    Outcome:
    Date Brief Filed: 3/11/2000 12:00:00 AM
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    Eckhart v. Spurrier (Court of Appeals for Tennessee, M2013-01314-COA-R3-CV)M2013-01314-COA-R3-CV)
    Case Description: Custody, visitation, and support decrees that preserve children's relationship with parents irrespective of biological or legal ties.
    NASW Supported: Eckhart-Petitioner/Appellant
    Outcome: Dismissed 4/10/2015 Appellant failed to show cause why the appeal should not be dismissed
    Date Brief Filed: 3/25/2014 12:00:00 AM
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    Egan v. Hon. Fridlund-Horne/Hochmuth Supreme Court of Arizona, No. CV-09-0133-PR)
    Case Description: Arizona case seeking child visitation rights in same-sex couple dispute
    NASW Supported: Egan
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 7/6/2009 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Motion to File Brief
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    El Koussa v Massachusetts (Commonwealth of Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, SJC-13237)SJC-13237)
    Case Description: Protecting employment rights of gig workers. The law if enacted would significantly narrow the definition of an "employee" thus eliminating Massachusetts employment law protections for many employees.
    NASW Supported: El Koussa
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 6/17/2022 12:00:00 AM
  • Amicus Brief
  • Decision 6/14/2022
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    Ensley v. New York City Department of City-Wide Administrative Services (New York Supreme Court, Appellate Division, 259 A.D.2d 286 (1999))259 A.D.2d 286 (1999))
    Case Description: Child welfare employees lawsuit against city agency for declaratory relief from overwhelming caseloads
    NASW Supported: Ensley
    Outcome: Lost. 3/4/1999 Case dismissed on grounds that it presents a nonjusticiable controversy and plaintiffs lack standing.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/27/1986 12:00:00 AM
  • Brief
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    Equality Foundation of Greater Cincinnati v. City of Cincinnati (United States Supreme Court, 54 F.3d 261 (6th Cir. 1995); cert. granted, judgment vacated, 518 U.S. 1001 (1996))54 F.3d 261 (6th Cir. 1995); cert. granted, judgment vacated, 518 U.S. 1001 (1996))
    Case Description: Cincinnati gay rights case
    NASW Supported: Equality Foundation of Greater Cincinnati
    Outcome: Lost. 6/17/1996
    Date Brief Filed: 12/5/1994 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Ex Parte Melissa Elizabeth Lucio (In the Court of Criminal Appeals of Texas, 07-CR-00885 WR-72,702-)07-CR-00885 WR-72,702-)
    Case Description: Texas Death Penalty Case: conviction is a result of a false confession and should be overturned.
    NASW Supported: Melissa Lucio
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 4/19/2022 12:00:00 AM
  • Amicus Brief
  • Decision 4/22/2022
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    F
    Farris v. Compton (United States Court of Appeals, D.D.C., 652 A.2d 49 (D.C. 1994))652 A.2d 49 (D.C. 1994))
    Case Description: DC statute of limitations for child sexual abuse repressed memories
    NASW Supported: Farris
    Outcome: Won. 12/29/1994 Discovery rule would allow sisters to maintain claim if their recollection of abuse had been repressed as a result of wrongful conduct.
    Date Brief Filed: 11/15/1993 12:00:00 AM
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    Ferguson v. City of Charleston South Carolina (United States Supreme Court, 532 U.S. 67 (2001))532 U.S. 67 (2001))
    Case Description: Urine testing and prosecution of pregnant substance abuers
    NASW Supported: Ferguson
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 6/2/2000 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Supreme Court Decision 3/21/2001
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    Fitzgerald v. Barnstable School Committee (United States Supreme Court, 129 S.Ct. 788 (2009) )129 S.Ct. 788 (2009) )
    Case Description: Civil rights remedies for peer sexual harrassment in education.
    NASW Supported: Fitzgerald
    Outcome: Won. Court held that Title IX was not exclusive remedy to address gender discrimination, and allowed § 1983 claim to proceed concurrently.
    Date Brief Filed: 8/29/2008 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • U.S. Supreme Court Decision 1/21/2009
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    Flores v. Barr (U.S. District Court Central District of California, 2:85-cv 04544)2:85-cv 04544)
    Case Description: Enforcement of regulations and standards regarding the detention and treatment of minors by federal agencies.
    NASW Supported: Flores
    Outcome: Mixed
    Date Brief Filed: 12/3/2021 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Text of Brief - DOJ reply brief
  • Text of Brief - 1-28-2020
  • Decision 10/4/2020
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    Flores v. Lynch (Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, 15-56434)15-56434)
    Case Description: Enforcement of the 1997 settlement agreement with respect to unaccompanied minors
    NASW Supported: Flores - Plaintiffs-Appellees
    Outcome: pending
    Date Brief Filed: 2/23/2016 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Decision 7/6/2016
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    Florida Dept. of Children and Families v. Adoption of X.X.G. (District Court of Appeal, Third District, State of Florida, No. 3D08-3044, --- So.3d ----, 2010 WL 3655782)No. 3D08-3044, --- So.3d ----, 2010 WL 3655782)
    Case Description: Florida gay parent adoption case
    NASW Supported: X.X.G. and N.R.G.
    Outcome: Court held that ban on adoption by gay parents violated the Equal Protection clause of the Florida Constitution.
    Date Brief Filed: 6/23/2009 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Florida v. USDHHS (U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit, 648 F.3d 1235 (2011))648 F.3d 1235 (2011))
    Case Description: Legal challenge by the State of Florida to the federal health reform law passed in 2010.
    NASW Supported: U.S Dept. of Health and Human Services
    Outcome: Mixed. Court upheld Medicaid expansion, but struck individual mandate to purchase health insurance.
    Date Brief Filed: 4/11/2011 12:00:00 AM
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    Frances v. Kings Park Manor (U.S. Court of Appeals 2nd Circuit, 15-1823)15-1823)
    Case Description: Challenged housing discrimination and race base harassment
    NASW Supported: Frances
    Outcome: Unfavorable
    Date Brief Filed: 5/8/2020 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Decision 3/25/2021 Text
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    Franet v. County of Alameda (United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, Not reported in federal reporter, 291 Fed.Appx. 32, 2008 WL 3992332 (2008))Not reported in federal reporter, 291 Fed.Appx. 32, 2008 WL 3992332 (2008))
    Case Description: Civil rights action against a child protective services social worker in California for removal of a child from parental custody.
    NASW Supported: County of Alameda, et al.
    Outcome: Court held social worker liable, but struck punitive damages. 8/14/2008
    Date Brief Filed: 6/27/2007 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • NASW Motion to File Amicus Brief
  • LDF Article, Recent Cases on Social Workers' Liability for Child Removal Decisions
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    Frazier v. Goudschaal (Supreme Court of the State of Kansas, No. 103,487)No. 103,487)
    Case Description: Kansas case seeking recognition of parental rights for non-biological parent in a same-sex couple
    NASW Supported: Marci Frazier
    Outcome: Favorable. Court upheld co-parenting agreement.
    Date Brief Filed: 8/6/2010 12:00:00 AM
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    Fulton v. City of Philadelphia (U.S. Court of Appeals 3rd Circuit, 18-2574)18-2574)
    Case Description: Whether a taxpayer-funded government-contracted foster care agency claiming a constitutional right to discriminate against prospective foster families headed by same-sex couples is a violation of the City’s contract.
    NASW Supported: City of Philadelphia, Defendant/Appellees
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 10/4/2018 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Text of Brief
  • Decision 4/22/2019
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    G
    Garretson v. Jones (also captioned as In the Matter of H.C.G.-J.) (Court of Appeals for Tennessee for the Middle Section of Tennessee at Nashville, M2012-02701-OCA-R3-CV)M2012-02701-OCA-R3-CV)
    Case Description: Appeal of denied custody petition by lesbian mother in Tennessee.
    NASW Supported: Jennie Garretson
    Outcome: Unfavorable 11/23/2013
    Date Brief Filed: 7/16/2013 12:00:00 AM
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    Gartner v. IDPH (Supreme Court of Iowa, No. 12-0243)No. 12-0243)
    Case Description: Iowa case seeking recognition of parent-child relationship under presumed parentage law for married, same-sex couple
    NASW Supported: Heather Gartner, et al.
    Outcome: Favorable. Court affirmed district court ordering birth certificate to name both mothers as parents.
    Date Brief Filed: 5/21/2012 12:00:00 AM
  • Decision 5/3/2013
  • Brief 5/18/2012
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    Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders v. Attorney General (Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, 763 N.E.2d 38 (Mass. 2002))763 N.E.2d 38 (Mass. 2002))
    Case Description: Challenge to Massachusetts criminal sodomy law
    NASW Supported: Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders
    Outcome: Won 2/21/2002
    Date Brief Filed: 6/25/2001 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Gibbs v. State (Mississippi Supreme Court, No. 2010-M-819)No. 2010-M-819)
    Case Description: Mississippi case challenging the criminal prosecution of 16 year old for continuing pregnancy and suffering a stillbirth while using cocaine.
    NASW Supported: Rennie Gibbs
    Outcome: See second brief filed in MS Supreme Court.
    Date Brief Filed: 5/19/2010 12:00:00 AM
  • Motion for Leave to File Amicus Brief
  • Text of Brief
  • Fourth Circuit brief
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    Gibbs v. State (Mississippi Supreme Court, 2010-IA-00819-SCT, 2011 Miss. LEXIS 515, 2012 Miss. LEXIS 47)2010-IA-00819-SCT, 2011 Miss. LEXIS 515, 2012 Miss. LEXIS 47)
    Case Description: Mississippi case challenging the criminal prosecution of 16 year old for continuing pregnancy and suffering a stillbirth while using cocaine.
    NASW Supported: Gibbs
    Outcome: Unfavorable. Petition for Permission to file Interlocutory Appeal was dismissed as improvidently granted. Motion for rehearing denied.
    Date Brief Filed: 11/18/2010 12:00:00 AM
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    Golinski v. OPM (United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, Nos. 12-15388 & 12-15409)Nos. 12-15388 & 12-15409)
    Case Description: Legal challenge to the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) by married, lesbian federal employee seeking spousal health insurance benefits
    NASW Supported: Golinski, et al.
    Outcome: Favorable. Appeal dismissed based on U.S. v. Windsor, finding Sec. 3 of DOMA unconstitutional.
    Date Brief Filed: 7/10/2012 12:00:00 AM
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    Gonzales v. Oregon (United States Supreme Court, 126 S.Ct. 904 (2006)) 126 S.Ct. 904 (2006))
    Case Description: Oregon's Death With Dignity Act
    NASW Supported: Oregon
    Outcome: Won. Also see brief filed in Court of Appeals, captioned, Oregon v. Ashcroft.
    Date Brief Filed: 7/21/2005 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Social Workers and End-of-Life Decisions (2006 LDF Legal Article)
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    Goodridge v. Department of Public Health (Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, 798 N.E.2d 941 (Mass. 2003))798 N.E.2d 941 (Mass. 2003))
    Case Description: Massachusetts same-sex marriage case
    NASW Supported: Goodridge, et al.
    Outcome: Won. 5/2003
    Date Brief Filed: 11/8/2002 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • What Do the Courts Say about Same-Sex Marriage? (2004 LDF Legal Article)
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    Gordon College: Massachusetts (Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, SJC-12988)SJC-12988)
    Case Description: Ministerial Exception
    NASW Supported: Plaintiff-Appellee
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 12/6/2021 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Motion for leave to File Brief 12/14/2020
  • Decision 3/5/2021
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    Gottwald v Sebert (New York Court of Appeals, AP:-2021-00131)AP:-2021-00131)
    Case Description: Defamation, Survivors of sexual abuse, Retaliation
    NASW Supported: Sebert
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 6/14/2022 12:00:00 AM
  • Amicus Brief
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    Gratz v. Bollinger (United States Supreme Court, 539 U.S. 244 (2003))539 U.S. 244 (2003))
    Case Description: University of Michigan affirmative action in higher education
    NASW Supported: Bollinger
    Outcome: Mixed. University of Michigan undergraduate admissions policies were held to violate Equal Protection Clause, but diversity may be a compelling state interest
    Date Brief Filed: 2/18/2003 12:00:00 AM
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    Gratz v. Bollinger (United States District Court, Eastern District of Michigan, 122 F.Supp.2d 811 (2000))122 F.Supp.2d 811 (2000))
    Case Description: University of Michigan affirmative action in undergraduate admissions case
    NASW Supported: Bollinger
    Outcome: Mixed.
    Date Brief Filed: 5/3/1999 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • What Direction are the Courts Moving with Affirmative Action? (2002 LDF Legal Article)
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    Griego, et al. v. Oliver and Salazar and State of New Mexico (Supreme Court of the State of New Mexico, No. 34,306)No. 34,306)
    Case Description: New Mexico case addressing same-sex marriage.
    NASW Supported: Griego, et al.
    Outcome: On December 19, 2013, the New Mexico Supreme Court ruled in a unanimous decision that the state constitution requires that same-sex couples must be treated equally under the law and have the same fundamental right to marry as other couples.
    Date Brief Filed: 9/23/2013 12:00:00 AM
  • Brief 9/23/2013
  • Decision 12/19/2014
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    Grutter v. Bollinger (United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, 137 F.Supp.2d 821 (2001), rev'd., 288 F.3d 732 (2002, aff'd., 539 U.S. 306 (2003).)137 F.Supp.2d 821 (2001), rev'd., 288 F.3d 732 (2002, aff'd., 539 U.S. 306 (2003).)
    Case Description: University of Michigan affirmative action in law school admissions case; see brief filed in Gratz v. Bollinger
    NASW Supported: Bollinger
    Outcome: Lost in district court, but case was later reversed on appeal.
    Date Brief Filed: 5/3/1999 12:00:00 AM
  • What Direction are the Courts Moving with Affirmative Action? (2002 LDF Legal Article)
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    H
    Hamilton v Dallas County (U.S. Court of Appeals 5th Circuit, 21-10133)21-10133)
    Case Description: Title VII Women's Rights
    NASW Supported: Hamilton
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 5/21/2021 12:00:00 AM
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    Harnett v. Ulett (United States Court of Appeals, 8th Cir. Eighth Circuit, 466 F.2d 113 (8th Cir. 1972))466 F.2d 113 (8th Cir. 1972))
    Case Description: Missouri social work employee free speech case
    NASW Supported: Harnett
    Outcome: Lost 8/22/1972
    Date Brief Filed: 1/1/1972 12:00:00 AM
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    Harris v. Forklift (United States District Court, M.D. Tenn., Not Reported in F.Supp., 1994 WL 792661 (1994))Not Reported in F.Supp., 1994 WL 792661 (1994))
    Case Description: Sexual harrassment
    NASW Supported: Harris
    Outcome: Won 1994
    Date Brief Filed: 1/1/1993 12:00:00 AM
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    Harrison v. Granite Bay Care, Inc. (U.S. Court of Appeals 1st Circuit, 14-1988)14-1988)
    Case Description: Case addresses whether filing a mandatory report with DHHS constitutes protected activity under the Maine Whistleblower Protection Act.
    NASW Supported: Harrison - Plaintiff/Appellant
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 1/9/2015 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Brief 1/7/2015
  • Decision 11/9/1993
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    Hecox v Bradley (U.S. Court of Appeals 9th Circuit, 20-35813, 20-35815)20-35813, 20-35815)
    Case Description: Challenge to Idaho’s Fairness in Women’s Sports Act (H.B. 500) which bars all women and girls who are transgender from participating on school sports teams consistent with their gender identity.
    NASW Supported: Plaintiff-Appellees
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 12/21/2021 12:00:00 AM
  • Brief 12/21/2020
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    Hernandez v. Robles (Supreme Court of New York, Appellate Division: First Judicial Dept., 805 N.Y.S.2d 354 (2005))805 N.Y.S.2d 354 (2005))
    Case Description: New York same-sex marriage case
    NASW Supported: Hernandez, et al.
    Outcome: Lost. But see brief in Court of Appeals.
    Date Brief Filed: 7/22/2005 12:00:00 AM
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    Hernandez v. Robles (Court of Appeals, State of New York, 7 N.Y.3d 338 (2006))7 N.Y.3d 338 (2006))
    Case Description: New York same-sex marriage case
    NASW Supported: Hernandez, et al.
    Outcome: Lost. Appeal combined with Samuels v. NYS Dept of Health
    Date Brief Filed: 4/14/2006 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    High v. Zant (United States Supreme Court, 492 U.S. 937 (1989))492 U.S. 937 (1989))
    Case Description: Juvenile death penalty
    NASW Supported: High
    Outcome: Lost.
    Date Brief Filed: 8/31/1988 12:00:00 AM
  • Brief
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    Hispanic Interest Coalition of Alabama v. Bentley (United State District Court for the Northern District of Alabama, Northeast Division, No. 5:11-cv-02484-SLB; 2011 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 137846 )No. 5:11-cv-02484-SLB; 2011 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 137846 )
    Case Description: Request for preliminary injunction against harsh immigration policies passed by Alabama legislature as HB 56.
    NASW Supported: Hispanic Interest Coalition of Alabama
    Outcome: Mixed. Court temporarily enjoined enforcement of portions of HB 56.
    Date Brief Filed: 8/5/2011 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • List of Amici Organizations
  • Motion for Leave to File Brief
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    Honig v. Doe (United States Supreme Court, 484 U.S. 305 (1988))484 U.S. 305 (1988))
    Case Description: Interpretation of Education of the Handicapped Act regarding disruptive conduct by emotionally handicapped students.
    NASW Supported: Doe
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 6/22/1987 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Supreme Court Decision 1/20/1988
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    Hope Clinic v. Adams (Supreme Court of Illinois, Decided as Hope Clinic v. Flores, 2013 IL 112673; 991 N.E.2d 745)Decided as Hope Clinic v. Flores, 2013 IL 112673; 991 N.E.2d 745)
    Case Description: Illinois case challenging parental notification law for minors' access to abortion.
    NASW Supported: Hope Clinic
    Outcome: Unfavorable. Court held that parental notification law was not unconstitutional. 7/11/2013
    Date Brief Filed: 7/18/2012 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Hope v. Perales (New York Supreme Court, Appellate Division, 595 N.Y.S.2d 948 (N.Y. App. Div. 1993); rev'd, 83 N.Y.2d 563 (1994))595 N.Y.S.2d 948 (N.Y. App. Div. 1993); rev'd, 83 N.Y.2d 563 (1994))
    Case Description: Constitutional challenge to state law providing women with prenatal services, but denying funding for abortions
    NASW Supported: Hope
    Outcome: Won, but case was later reversed on appeal. 5/5/1994
    Date Brief Filed: 2/3/1992 12:00:00 AM
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    Hopkins v. Jegley (U.S. Court of Appeals 8th Circuit, 17-2879)17-2879)
    Case Description: The Center for Reproductive Rights’ challenge to four Arkansas laws that would ban 2 of the most common methods of abortion and a woman’s right to choose would be subject to prohibitive types of consent requirements.
    NASW Supported: Plaintiff/Appellee, Hopkins
    Outcome: Remanded 8/7/2020
    Date Brief Filed: 3/5/2018 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Hovsons, Inc. v. Township of Brick (United States Court of Appeals, 3rd Cir., 89 F.3d 1096 (3rd Cir. 1996))89 F.3d 1096 (3rd Cir. 1996))
    Case Description: Fair Housing Amendments Acts case applied to nursing home as an accomodation to handicapped persons
    NASW Supported: Hovsons
    Outcome: Won. 8/18/1996 Nursing home is a "dwelling" within meaning of FHHA. Township's refusal to grant variance violated FHAA. 8/18/1996
    Date Brief Filed: 1/17/1996 12:00:00 AM
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    I
    In re A.C. (District of Columbia Court of Appeals, 573 A.2d 1235 (D.C. 1990))573 A.2d 1235 (D.C. 1990))
    Case Description: DC case regarding consent to medical procedure by terminally ill pregnant woman
    NASW Supported: A.C.
    Outcome: Won. 4/26/1990
    Date Brief Filed: 9/6/1988 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    In re Adoption of Jane Doe (Court of Appeals of Ohio, 719 N.E.2d 1071 (Ohio Ct. App. 1998))719 N.E.2d 1071 (Ohio Ct. App. 1998))
    Case Description: Ohio lesbian "second-parent" adoption case
    NASW Supported: Doe
    Outcome: Lost. Denied lesbian co-parent the opportunity to adopt her partner's biological child.
    Date Brief Filed: 10/1/1998 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • What Are the Rights of Children in Gay and Lesbian Families? (2002 LDF Legal Article)
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    In re Adoption of Jane Doe (Ohio Supreme Court, 711 N.E.2d 234 (Ohio 1999))711 N.E.2d 234 (Ohio 1999))
    Case Description: Ohio lesbian "second-parent" adoption case
    NASW Supported: Doe
    Outcome: Lost. Supreme Court of Ohio denied motion to review lower courts' decisions denying lesbian co-parent the opportunity to adopt her partner's biological child.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/29/1999 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    In re Adoption of KMG (Supreme Court of Pennsylvania Western District, No. 55 WAP 2019)No. 55 WAP 2019)
    Case Description: Child's legal right to counsel in termination of parental rights in (TPR) hearing.
    NASW Supported: Appellant TLG
    Outcome: Unfavorable
    Date Brief Filed: 12/3/2021 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Decision 11/10/2021 Text
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    In re Adoption of Luke v. State (Nebraska Supreme Court, 640 N.W.2d 374 (Neb. 2002))640 N.W.2d 374 (Neb. 2002))
    Case Description: Lesbian second-parent adoption case.
    NASW Supported: B.P. and A.E.
    Outcome: Lost.
    Date Brief Filed: 9/10/2001 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • What Are the Rights of Children in Gay and Lesbian Families? (2002 LDF Legal Article)
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    In re Adoption/Guardianship No. CCJ14746 (Maryland Court of Appeals, 759 A.2d 755 (2000))759 A.2d 755 (2000))
    Case Description: Social workers as expert witnesses
    NASW Supported: Respondent, Washington County Department of Social Services
    Outcome: Won. Licensed clinical social worker was specifically authorized to diagnose mental disorder, therefore, was qualified to testify as an expert.
    Date Brief Filed: 3/31/2000 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Appendix to Brief
  • Are Licensed Clinical Social Workers Authorized to Provide Expert Witness Testimony Concerning the Diagnosis and Treatment of Emotional and Mental Disorders? (2002 LDF Legal Article)
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    In re Austin W. v. Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (Illinois Supreme Court, 214 Ill.2d 31(2005))214 Ill.2d 31(2005))
    Case Description: Lesbian parenting and permanency planning for foster children
    NASW Supported: Illinois Department of Family Services and Fontaine
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 4/28/2004 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    In re Baby Z (Connecticut Supreme Court, 724 A.2d 1035 (Conn. 1999))724 A.2d 1035 (Conn. 1999))
    Case Description: Connecticut lesbian second-parent adoption case.
    NASW Supported: Baby Z's mother and lesbian partner
    Outcome: Lost.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/1/0001 12:00:00 AM
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    In re Commutation Petitions of Patricia E. Allen
    Case Description:
    NASW Supported:
    Outcome:
    Date Brief Filed: 1/1/0001 12:00:00 AM
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    In re D.D.P. (Fifth District Court of Appeal of Florida, 5D13-1766 )5D13-1766 )
    Case Description: case involving invalidation of the adoption of a child by same-sex partner
    NASW Supported: D.D.P.
    Outcome: favorable; Decision 5/27/14
    Date Brief Filed: 8/1/2013 12:00:00 AM
  • Opinion
  • Brief
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    In re Estates of Herrod (Appellate Court of Illinois, 626 N.E.2d 1334 (Ill. App. Ct. 1993))626 N.E.2d 1334 (Ill. App. Ct. 1993))
    Case Description: Standby guardianship for child of parent with HIV/AIDS
    NASW Supported: Herrod
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 5/10/1993 12:00:00 AM
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    In re Grand Jury Subpoena (State of Rhode Island Supreme Court, 748 A.2d 821 (R.I. 2000))748 A.2d 821 (R.I. 2000))
    Case Description: Rhode Island social worker subpoena and motion to quash
    NASW Supported: Glatter
    Outcome: Mixed. Petition for certiorari was denied for mootness because of changed circumstances in the case and subsequent court rulings that required different procedures for subpoenas.
    Date Brief Filed: 3/1/1999 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    In re Guardianship of Matthew L (Supreme Court of the State of New Hampshire, No. 2012-0384)No. 2012-0384)
    Case Description: New Hampshire same-sex couples' dispute concerning legal status of a co-guardianship for a child they jointly parent
    NASW Supported: Joan M.
    Outcome: Unfavorable. Court affirmed termination of guardianship.
    Date Brief Filed: 9/18/2012 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Court Decision
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    In re L.K.M. (also captioned as In re Mullen) (Supreme Court of Ohio, 2011 Ohio 3361)2011 Ohio 3361)
    Case Description: Ohio case seeking recognition of child custody rights for lesbian co-parent.
    NASW Supported: Neither Party
    Outcome: Court denied non-biological mother's right to seek custody of child. Best interests of child not considered.
    Date Brief Filed: 7/30/2010 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    In re Maloney (Supreme Court of Ohio, 774 N.E.2d 239 (Ohio 2002))774 N.E.2d 239 (Ohio 2002))
    Case Description: Transgender name change
    NASW Supported: Maloney
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 3/25/2002 12:00:00 AM
  • Brief 3/25/2002
  • Brief 3/25/2002
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    In re Marriage Cases (Supreme Court of California, 43 Cal.4th 757, 183 P.3d 384 (2008))43 Cal.4th 757, 183 P.3d 384 (2008))
    Case Description: California same-sex marriage case
    NASW Supported: Same-sex couples seeking marriage
    Outcome: Won. Court recognized the individual right to marry regardless of sexual orientation.
    Date Brief Filed: 9/26/2007 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • LDF "Legal Issue of the Month" article, "Social Workers and the California Same-Sex Marraige Cases"
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    In re Mullen (see brief filed in In re L.K.M.) (Supreme Court of Ohio, 2011 Ohio 3361)2011 Ohio 3361)
    Case Description: Child custody case brought by non-biological mother of a child born to lesbian partner
    NASW Supported: Neither party
    Outcome: Court denied non-biological parent the ability to seek custody. Best interests of child not considered.
    Date Brief Filed: 7/30/2010 12:00:00 AM
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    In re Ray (Supreme Court of Ohio, 780 N.E.2d 241 (Ohio 2002))780 N.E.2d 241 (Ohio 2002))
    Case Description: Lesbian co-parenting case
    NASW Supported: Bonfield
    Outcome: Mixed. Cohabiting same-sex partner was not "parent" for purposes of shared parenting agreement. Juvenile court may determine if non-parent shared custody is in chilren's best interest.
    Date Brief Filed: 10/11/2001 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Text of Brief
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    In re S.J.L. (Court of Appeals of Ohio, Eighth District, 2009 WL 1160492)2009 WL 1160492)
    Case Description: Ohio child custody case involving a lesbian couple.
    NASW Supported: Goodman
    Outcome: Dismissed for lack of jurisdiction. See appeal.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/20/2009 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    In re S.J.L. (Court of Appeals of Ohio, Eighth District , Nos. 93691, 93692 )Nos. 93691, 93692 )
    Case Description: Ohio child custody case involving a lesbian couple.
    NASW Supported: Goodman
    Outcome: Favorable. Trial court’s assignment of visitation rights to non-biological mother was affirmed. 8/5/2010
    Date Brief Filed: 10/13/2009 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Motion for Leave to File
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    In re Stumbo (North Carolina Supreme Court, 582 S.E. 2d 255 (2003))582 S.E. 2d 255 (2003))
    Case Description: North Carolina case regarding warrantless child protection interviews by social workers
    NASW Supported: Cleveland County Department of Social Services
    Outcome: Lost.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/11/2001 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Is it Necessary for Protective Services Social Workers to Obtain a Warrant to Investigate a Child Abuse or Neglect Complaint? (LDF Legal Article)
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    In re Subpoena to Crisis Connection, Inc. (Indiana Supreme Court, 949 N.E.2d 789 (2011))949 N.E.2d 789 (2011))
    Case Description: Indiana case addressing application of victim-advocate privilege for counseling records of child sexual assault victims
    NASW Supported: Crisis Connection, Inc.
    Outcome: Won. Court protected counseling records from disclosure.
    Date Brief Filed: 11/4/2010 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    In re the Matter of: S.A.S. by her next friend, Z.J.S. v. B.P. and T.L.N. (Missouri Court of Appeals, Eastern District, Division Three, 314 S.W.3d 348 (2009))314 S.W.3d 348 (2009))
    Case Description: Missouri "de facto" parenting case re: non-biological, putative father
    NASW Supported: S.A.S. and Z.J.S.
    Outcome: Court held that constitutional issue had not been preserved on appeal; reversed and remanded to develop a trial court record. 4/6/2010, Rehearing Denied 7/14/2010
    Date Brief Filed: 5/26/2009 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief (originally filed as Stephen v. Peters)
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    In the Interest of T.P.S., a Minor Child (Catherine D.W. v. Deanna C.S.) (Illinois Appellate Court for the 5thDistrict 5/11/2011, No. 05-10-0617)No. 05-10-0617)
    Case Description: Legal challenge to termination of guardianship for children parented by an Illinois lesbian couple.
    NASW Supported: Catherine D.W.
    Outcome: Won. Court reversed the termination of guardianship and remanded for a decison based on the best interests of the children.
    Date Brief Filed: 3/1/2011 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    In the Matter of Anthony (U.S. DOJ, Board of Immigration Appeals, File No. A 035 793 579)File No. A 035 793 579)
    Case Description: Deportation proceedings based on the Convention Against Torture and what evidence must be demonstrated for a gay man who is at risk of being returned to Jamaica where anti-gay violence is extremely high.
    NASW Supported: Anthony *
    Outcome: Favorable. DOJ Board ruled that evidence presented was sufficient to establish that applicant was homosexual.
    Date Brief Filed: 8/15/2013 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    In the Matter of H.C.G.-J. (also captioned as Garretson v. Jones) (Court of Appeals for Tennessee for the Middle Section of Tennessee at Nashville, No. M2012-02701-COA-R3-CV)No. M2012-02701-COA-R3-CV)
    Case Description: Appeal of denied custody petition by lesbian mother in Tennessee.
    NASW Supported: Jennie L. Garretson
    Outcome: Unfavorable 11/12/2013
    Date Brief Filed: 7/16/2013 12:00:00 AM
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    In the matter of T.P.S. and K.M.S. (see brief filed in Catherine D.W. v. Deanna C.S.) (Illinois Appellate Court for the Fifth District, 2012 Il App (5th) 120176; 2012 Ill. App. LEXIS 830)2012 Il App (5th) 120176; 2012 Ill. App. LEXIS 830)
    Case Description: Illinois case addressing parent-child rights for a same-sex couple who co-parented two children and then separated.
    NASW Supported: Catherine D.W.
    Outcome: Favorable. Court found right for same-sex parent to seek custody and visitation of children she co-parented.
    Date Brief Filed: 6/4/2012 12:00:00 AM
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    In the Matter of the Adoption of D.D.P (District Court of Appeal of the State of Florida, Fifth District, No. 5D13-1766)No. 5D13-1766)
    Case Description: Florida case addressing adoption by same-sex couples.
    NASW Supported: G.P., Appellant
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 8/8/2013 12:00:00 AM
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  • Text of Brief
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    Inscoe v. Inscoe (Court of Appeals of Ohio, 700 N.E.2d 70 (Ohio Ct. App. 1997))700 N.E.2d 70 (Ohio Ct. App. 1997))
    Case Description: Ohio gay father custody case
    NASW Supported: Herbert E. Inscoe
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 5/24/1996 12:00:00 AM
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    Jackson v. Abercrombie (consolidated with Sevcik v. Sandoval) (United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, Case Nos. 12-17668, 12-16995, and 12-16998)Case Nos. 12-17668, 12-16995, and 12-16998)
    Case Description: Same-sex couples in Nevada and Hawaii seeking legal recognition of right to marriage.
    NASW Supported: Jackson, et al.; Sevcik, et al.
    Outcome: Favorable 10/10/2014
    Date Brief Filed: 10/25/2013 12:00:00 AM
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  • Decision 10/10/2014
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    Jackson v. Birmingham Board of Education (United States Supreme Court, 125 S.Ct. 1497 (2005))125 S.Ct. 1497 (2005))
    Case Description: Title IX case involving right to sue for retaliation by discriminatory employer
    NASW Supported: Jackson
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 8/19/2004 12:00:00 AM
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    Jackson v. DC Board of Elections and Ethics (District of Columbia Court of Appeals, No. 10-CV-20)No. 10-CV-20)
    Case Description: Challenge to proposed referendum to ban same-sex marriage in DC.
    NASW Supported: DC Board of Elections and Ethics
    Outcome: Won. Court barred referendum as a discriminatory violation of Human Rights Act.
    Date Brief Filed: 3/26/2010 12:00:00 AM
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    Jaffee v. Redmond (United States Supreme Court, 518 U.S. 1 (1996))518 U.S. 1 (1996))
    Case Description: Federal psychotherapist-patient privilege established; applies to licensed clinical social workers
    NASW Supported: Redmond
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/2/1996 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Social Workers and Psychotherapist-Patient Privilege: Jaffee v. Redmond Revisited (LDF Legal Article)
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    Jane Roe v United States (U.S. Court of Appeals 4th Circuit 4/26/2022, 21-1346)21-1346)
    Case Description: Harassment Discrimination
    NASW Supported: Jane Roe
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 8/26/2021 12:00:00 AM
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    Janice M. v. Margaret K. (Maryland Court of Appeals, 404 Md. 661, 948 A.2d 73 (2008))404 Md. 661, 948 A.2d 73 (2008))
    Case Description: Maryland lesbian de facto parent case.
    NASW Supported: Margaret K.
    Outcome: Lost. Court denied de facto parent status
    Date Brief Filed: 4/12/2007 12:00:00 AM
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    Jegley v. Picado (Arkansas Supreme Court, 349 Ark. 600, 80 S.W.3d 332 (2002))349 Ark. 600, 80 S.W.3d 332 (2002))
    Case Description: State law challenge to Arkansas criminal sodomy statute
    NASW Supported: Picado
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 10/29/2001 12:00:00 AM
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    Jernigan et al v. Crane (U.S. Court of Appeals 8th Circuit, 15-1022)15-1022)
    Case Description: Marriage equality for same sex couples
    NASW Supported: Jernigan - Plaintiffs/Appellees
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 3/26/2015 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Decision 8/11/2015 Text
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    Johnson v. State (Florida Supreme Court, 602 So. 2d 1288 (1992))602 So. 2d 1288 (1992))
    Case Description: Challenge to prosecution of Florida pregnant substance abuser
    NASW Supported: Johnson
    Outcome: Won. Conviction reversed and court held that statute prohibiting the delivery of a controlled substance to a minor did not apply to mothers who delivered drug-affected babies.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/1/1900 12:00:00 AM
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    Jose P. v. Ambach (United States District Court, E.D.N.Y., 1987 WL 9684 (E.D.N.Y. Apr. 13, 1987))1987 WL 9684 (E.D.N.Y. Apr. 13, 1987))
    Case Description: Hiring of social workers for New York City special education evaluations
    NASW Supported: Jose P., et al.
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/1/0001 12:00:00 AM
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    K.R. v Duluth Public School Academy (U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota, 145-1)145-1)
    Case Description: Race Based Discrimination & Harassment
    NASW Supported: K.R.
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 9/10/2021 12:00:00 AM
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    Karnoski v. Trump (U.S. Court of Appeals, 18-35347)18-35347)
    Case Description: : Individuals with a history or diagnosis of gender dysphoria who require or have undergone gender transition are disqualified from serving in the U.S. military
    NASW Supported: Plaintiff/Appellee, Karnoski
    Outcome: Unfavorable
    Date Brief Filed: 7/3/2018 12:00:00 AM
  • Brief
  • Decision 6/14/2019
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    Katie A. v. Los Angeles County (United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, 481 F.3d 1150 (2007))481 F.3d 1150 (2007))
    Case Description: California therapeutic foster care services class-action lawsuit.
    NASW Supported: Katie A.
    Outcome: Lost on preliminary injunction issue. Remanded for further consideration.
    Date Brief Filed: 8/10/2006 12:00:00 AM
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    Katz v. Ohio State Board of Psychology (Ohio Court of Appeals, No. C-800265, 1981 WL 9783 (Ohio Ct. App. May 13, 1981))No. C-800265, 1981 WL 9783 (Ohio Ct. App. May 13, 1981))
    Case Description: Ohio social workers' right to practice psychotherapy
    NASW Supported: Katz
    Outcome: Lost.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/1/0001 12:00:00 AM
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    Kentucky Board of Examiners of Psychologists v. Courier-Journal and Louisville Times Co. (Kentucky Supreme Court, 826 S.W.2d 324 (Ky. 1992))826 S.W.2d 324 (Ky. 1992))
    Case Description: Confidentiality of Ohio psychology licensing board complaints
    NASW Supported: Kentucky Board of Examiners of Psychologists, et al.
    Outcome: Won 3/12/1992
    Date Brief Filed: 11/5/1990 12:00:00 AM
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    Kerrigan v. Commissioner of Public Health (State of Connecticut Supreme Court, 289 Conn. 135, 957 A.2d 407 (2008))289 Conn. 135, 957 A.2d 407 (2008))
    Case Description: Connecticut same-sex marriage case
    NASW Supported: Kerrigan, et al.
    Outcome: Won. Court recognized right to marry regardless of sexual orientation.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/31/2007 12:00:00 AM
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    Kerrigan v. State (Superior Court of Connecticut, Judicial District of New Haven, Not Reported in A.2d, 2006 WL 2089468 (Conn. Super.))Not Reported in A.2d, 2006 WL 2089468 (Conn. Super.))
    Case Description: Connecticut same-sex marriage case
    NASW Supported: Kerrigan, et al.
    Outcome: Lost summary judgment motion.
    Date Brief Filed: 7/28/2005 12:00:00 AM
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    Kesterson v. Kent State (U.S. Court of Appeals 6th Circuit, 18-4200)18-4200)
    Case Description: Title IX case that addresses 'actual knowledge" standard versus "appropriate person" in student on student harassment cases and schools' duty to respond.
    NASW Supported: Kesterson, Plaintiff/Appellant
    Outcome: Mixed
    Date Brief Filed: 6/4/2019 12:00:00 AM
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  • Decision 7/24/2020
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    Kimbrough v. State (Court of Criminal Appeals of Alabama, CR-09-0485)CR-09-0485)
    Case Description: Alabama case challenging criminal prosecution of woman for continuing her pregnancy while abusing drugs and suffering a stillbirth.
    NASW Supported: Kimbrough
    Outcome: Appeal denied. Petition for rehearing denied. See Supreme Court of Alabama brief appeals filed in State of Alabama v. Kimbrough.
    Date Brief Filed: 7/9/2010 12:00:00 AM
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  • Decision 1/11/2013
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    King v. Beaufort County Board of Education (Supreme Court of North Carolina, No. 480A09)No. 480A09)
    Case Description: School discipline and access to alternative education
    NASW Supported: King
    Outcome: Positive. Court held that state must provide a rationale for refusing to provide alternative education to suspended student. 10/8/2010
    Date Brief Filed: 12/23/2009 12:00:00 AM
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    King v. Christie (U.S. Court of Appeals for the 3rd Circuit, CA 13-4429, DC 3:13-cv-05038-FLW-LHG)CA 13-4429, DC 3:13-cv-05038-FLW-LHG)
    Case Description: Requesting the New Jersey Supreme Court to affirm a lower court's decision upholding a New Jersey statute which prohibits the use of reparative therapy on teenagers
    NASW Supported: Defendants/Appellees
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 9/11/2014 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Kluge v Brownsburg Community School Corp (U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Indiana, 1:19-cv-02462-JMS-DLP)1:19-cv-02462-JMS-DLP)
    Case Description: The importance of addressing transgender students by name and pronouns that affirm their gender identities.
    NASW Supported: Brownsburg Community School Corp
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 3/15/2021 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Decision 07/12/2021 Text
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    Kluge v Brownsburg Community School Corp (U.S. Court of Appeals 7th Circuit, 21-2475)21-2475)
    Case Description: Transgender
    NASW Supported: Brownsburg Community School Corp
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 11/8/2021 12:00:00 AM
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    Kulstad v. Maniaci (Montana Supreme Court, DA 08-0483)DA 08-0483)
    Case Description: Montana case seeking recognition of lesbian mother's status as "de facto" parent of her non-biological child
    NASW Supported: Michelle Kulstad
    Outcome: Court recognized parental rights for non-biological lesbian mother 10/6/2009
    Date Brief Filed: 3/27/2009 12:00:00 AM
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    Kutil and Hess v. Blake (Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia , 223 W.Va. 711 (2009))223 W.Va. 711 (2009))
    Case Description: West Virginia child welfare adoption case involving lesbian foster parents.
    NASW Supported: Kutil and Hess
    Outcome: Won. Court granted petition by foster parents.
    Date Brief Filed: 2/17/2009 12:00:00 AM
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    LaShawn A. v. Barry; LaShawn A. v. Dixon (United States District Court for the District of Columbia, 762 F.Supp. 959 (1991))762 F.Supp. 959 (1991))
    Case Description: District of Columbia foster care system reform case
    NASW Supported: LaShawn A., et al.
    Outcome: Won 4/18/1991
    Date Brief Filed: 10/30/1989 12:00:00 AM
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    Latta v. Otter (U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit, 14-35420, 14-35421)14-35420, 14-35421)
    Case Description: Marriage equality for same sex couples
    NASW Supported: Latta - Plaintiff/Appellees
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 7/25/2014 12:00:00 AM
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    Lawrence v. Texas (United States Supreme Court, 123 S.Ct. 2472 (2003))123 S.Ct. 2472 (2003))
    Case Description: Texas sodomy criminal case regarding constitutional right to private homosexual conduct
    NASW Supported: Lawrence and Garner
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/1/2003 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Social Workers and Legal Developments in Gay Rights (2003 LDF Legal Article)
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    Lawson v. Kelly (U.S. Court of Appeals 8th Circuit, 14-3779, 14-3780)14-3779, 14-3780)
    Case Description: Marriage equality for same sex couples
    NASW Supported: Lawson - Plaintiff/Appellees
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 3/26/2015 12:00:00 AM
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    LeBron v. Secretary, Florida Dept. of Children & Families (United States Court of Appeal for the Eleventh Circuit, No. 11.-15258)No. 11.-15258)
    Case Description: Challenge to Florida's mandatory suspicionless drug-testing requirement for TANF applicants
    NASW Supported: Luis LeBron
    Outcome: Favorable. State did not establish a substantial special need to support its mandatory suspicionless drug testing of TANF recipients.
    Date Brief Filed: 3/6/2012 12:00:00 AM
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    Lewis v. Harris (New Jersey Superior Court, App. Div., 378 N.J.Super. 168 (2005))378 N.J.Super. 168 (2005))
    Case Description: New Jersey same-sex marriage challenge
    NASW Supported: Lewis and Winslow, et al.
    Outcome: Lost.
    Date Brief Filed: 11/5/2004 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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  • Table of Contents
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  • Certificate of Service
  • What Do the Courts Say about Same-Sex Marriage? (2004 LDF Legal Article)
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    Lewis v. Harris (New Jersey Supreme Court, 188 N.J. 415, 908 A.2d 196 (2006))188 N.J. 415, 908 A.2d 196 (2006))
    Case Description: New Jersey appeal of same-sex marriage case
    NASW Supported: Lewis and Winslow, et al.
    Outcome: Partial win. Court granted equal privileges, but not marriage
    Date Brief Filed: 10/21/2005 12:00:00 AM
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    Lewis v. Harris (Supreme Court of New Jersey, 202 N.J. 340 (2010))202 N.J. 340 (2010))
    Case Description: New Jersey case seeking enforcement of prior ruling on equal access to marriage benefits for same-sex couples.
    NASW Supported: Lewis, et al.
    Outcome: Request for court enforcement order denied, but plaintiffs invited to file in the trial court for a review on the merits.
    Date Brief Filed: 5/10/2010 12:00:00 AM
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    Li v. State (Circuit Court of the State of Oregon for the County of Multomah, 2004 WL 1258167 (unpublished opinion))2004 WL 1258167 (unpublished opinion))
    Case Description: Oregon same-sex marriage case
    NASW Supported: Li, et al.
    Outcome: Won, but case was later reversed on appeal.
    Date Brief Filed: 4/9/2004 12:00:00 AM
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    Li v. State (Oregon Supreme Court, 110 P.3d 91 (2005))110 P.3d 91 (2005))
    Case Description: Oregon same-sex marriage case
    NASW Supported: Li, et al
    Outcome: Lost.
    Date Brief Filed: 10/14/2004 12:00:00 AM
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    Lovill v. State (Court of Criminal Appeals of Texas, 319 S.W. 687 (2009), rehearing denied (2010))319 S.W. 687 (2009), rehearing denied (2010))
    Case Description: Appeal of revocation of probation and sanctions based on drug use during pregnancy.
    NASW Supported: Amber Lovill
    Outcome: Unfavorable. Trial judge's decision affirmed due to procedural issues.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/1/0001 12:00:00 AM
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    Lovill v. State (Court of Appeals, 13th District of Texas, --- S.W.3d ----, 2008 WL 5275531 (Dec. 22, 2008))--- S.W.3d ----, 2008 WL 5275531 (Dec. 22, 2008))
    Case Description: Appeal of probation revocation and imprisonment of pregnant woman who had drug dependence.
    NASW Supported: Lovill
    Outcome: Partial victory. Court found that Lovill established an Equal Protection violation, but remanded for further proceedings.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/18/2008 12:00:00 AM
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    M.D. v aBBOTT (U.S. Court of Appeals 5th Circuit, 18-40057)18-40057)
    Case Description: Texas foster children have the right to be free from unreasonable risk of harm while in state custody.
    NASW Supported: Appellees
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 4/9/2018 12:00:00 AM
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    M.D. v. Abbott (5th Circuit U. S. Court of Appeals, 18-40057)18-40057)
    Case Description: class action lawsuit on behalf of Texas foster children, suing for their right to be free from unreasonable risk of harm while in state custody.
    NASW Supported: M.D. - Appellees
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 4/9/2018 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Maday v District 211 (Cook County Circuit Court, 18-0294)18-0294)
    Case Description: Illinois case involving transgender student locker room access without restriction.
    NASW Supported: Plaintiff/Appellant, Maday
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 3/23/2018 12:00:00 AM
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    Manuel v. Westlake Polymers Corp. (United States Court of Appeals, 5th Cir., 66 F.3d 758 (5th Cir. 1995).)66 F.3d 758 (5th Cir. 1995).)
    Case Description: Clarification of Family and Medical Leave Act rights
    NASW Supported: Manuel
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 6/11/2018 12:00:00 AM
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    Marchwinski v. Howard (United States Court of Appeals, 6th Cir., 60 Fed. App. 601(6th Cir. 2003))60 Fed. App. 601(6th Cir. 2003))
    Case Description: Challenge to Michigan suspicionless drug testing of welfare recipients
    NASW Supported: Marchwinski
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/18/2001 12:00:00 AM
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    Maryland State Board of Physicians v. Eist (Court of Special Appeals of Maryland, 176 Md.App. 82, 932 A.2d 783 (2007))176 Md.App. 82, 932 A.2d 783 (2007))
    Case Description: Maryland case involving compulsory disclosure of psychiatric records in preliminary physican disiplinary investigation.
    NASW Supported: Harold Eist, M.D.
    Outcome: Court granted relief; upheld patient's constitutional right to privacy.
    Date Brief Filed: 10/20/2006 12:00:00 AM
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    Maryland State Board of Physicians v. Eist (Maryland Court of Appeals, No. 110)No. 110)
    Case Description: Maryland case involving compulsory disclosure of psychiatric records in preliminary physican disiplinary investigation.
    NASW Supported: Harold Eist. M.D.
    Outcome: Pending. Also, see brief filed in Court of Special Appeals.
    Date Brief Filed: 3/31/2008 12:00:00 AM
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    Maryland State Department of Education v. Department of Veterans Affairs; National Federation of the Blind v. Department of Veterans Affairs (Supreme Court of the United States, 522 U.S. 806 (1997))522 U.S. 806 (1997))
    Case Description: Interpretation of the Blind Vending Act and proper procedures for dispute resolution
    NASW Supported:
    Outcome: Certiorari denied.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/1/0001 12:00:00 AM
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    Mason v. Dwinnell (North Carolina Court of Appeals, 660 S.E.2d 58 (2008))660 S.E.2d 58 (2008))
    Case Description: North Carolina lesbian child custody case.
    NASW Supported: Mason
    Outcome: Won. Court upheld
    Date Brief Filed: 4/20/2007 12:00:00 AM
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    Massachusetts v A Juvenile (Supreme Judicial Court for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, SJC-12986)SJC-12986)
    Case Description: Systematic bias pertaining to juvenile justice race and gender issues.
    NASW Supported: Petitioner-Appellant
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 12/17/2020 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Decision 4/12/2021 Text
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    Massachusetts v. U.S. Dep't. of Health and Human Services (United States Court of Appeal for the First Circuit, 682 F.3d 1 (2012))682 F.3d 1 (2012))
    Case Description: Challenge to the federal Defense of Marriage Act
    NASW Supported: Massachusetts
    Outcome: Favorable. Court struck down DOMA as unconstitutional
    Date Brief Filed: 11/3/2011 12:00:00 AM
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    Massinga v. L.J. (United States Supreme Court, 488 U.S. 1018 (1989)488 U.S. 1018, 109 S.Ct. 816 (1989))488 U.S. 1018 (1989)488 U.S. 1018, 109 S.Ct. 816 (1989))
    Case Description: Qualified immunity of foster care social workers under federal civil rights act
    NASW Supported: Massinga
    Outcome: Certiorari denied.
    Date Brief Filed: 6/1/1988 12:00:00 AM
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    McKnight v. South Carolina (United States Supreme Court, 124 S.Ct. 101 (2003))124 S.Ct. 101 (2003))
    Case Description: South Carolina pregnant substance abuser prosecution
    NASW Supported: McKnight
    Outcome: Motion for certiorari denied.
    Date Brief Filed: 7/29/2003 12:00:00 AM
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    McKnight v. State (Brief filed in South Carolina Court of Appeals; decision reached by South Carolina Supreme Court, 352 S.C. 635 (2003))352 S.C. 635 (2003))
    Case Description: South Carolina pregnant substance abuser prosecution
    NASW Supported: McKnight
    Outcome: Lost.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/1/0001 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Legal Developments in Treating and Prosecuting Pregnant Substance Abusers (2004 LDF Legal Article)
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    McKnight v. State (South Carolina Supreme Court, 661 S.E.2d 354 (2008))661 S.E.2d 354 (2008))
    Case Description: South Carolina post-conviction proceeding challenging homicide conviction of woman who abused drugs during pregnancy
    NASW Supported: McKnight
    Outcome: Won. Conviction reversed.
    Date Brief Filed: 9/17/2007 12:00:00 AM
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    McNamara v. Dukakis (United States District Court, D. Mass., 1990 WL 235439 (D.Mass.))1990 WL 235439 (D.Mass.))
    Case Description: Class-action by recipients of state mental health services challenging cuts in service by the Governor
    NASW Supported: McNamara
    Outcome: Mixed.
    Date Brief Filed: 11/29/1990 12:00:00 AM
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    McRae v. Mathews (United States District Court, E.D.N.Y., 421 F.Supp. 533 (E.D.N.Y. 1976))421 F.Supp. 533 (E.D.N.Y. 1976))
    Case Description: Challenge to Federal Appropriation Act that denied funding to indigent, pregnant women for elective abortions
    NASW Supported: McRae
    Outcome: Won 11/8/1976
    Date Brief Filed: 10/1/1976 12:00:00 AM
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    Memmel v. Mundy (Wisconsin Supreme Court, 249 N.W.2d 573 (1977))249 N.W.2d 573 (1977))
    Case Description: Right to counsel in civil commitment proceedings
    NASW Supported: Memmel, et al.
    Outcome: Unfavorable 1/18/1977
    Date Brief Filed: 11/5/1976 12:00:00 AM
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    Meriwether v Hartop (U.S. Court of Appeals 6th Circuit, 20-3289)20-3289)
    Case Description: First Amendment, Gender Identity
    NASW Supported: Hartop
    Outcome: Unfavorable: Rehearing Denied
    Date Brief Filed: 12/7/2021 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Decision 7/8/2021 Text
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    Miller v. Youakim (United States Supreme Court, 99 S.Ct. 957 (1979))99 S.Ct. 957 (1979))
    Case Description: Right to foster care assistance for children in foster care with relatives
    NASW Supported: Youakim, et al.
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 7/17/1978 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Decision 2/22/1979
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    Miller-Jenkins v. Miller-Jenkins (Supreme Court of Vermont, 912 A.2d 951 (2006))912 A.2d 951 (2006))
    Case Description: Vermont lesbian co-parenting case.
    NASW Supported: Janet Miller-Jenkins
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 6/7/2005 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Morgan v US Soccer Federation, Inc. (U.S. Court of Appeals 9th Circuit, 21-55356)21-55356)
    Case Description: Equal Pay
    NASW Supported: US Soccer Federation
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 7/30/2021 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Moxley and Snyder-Hill v OSU (U.S. Court of Appeals 6th Circuit, 21-3981, 21-3991)21-3981, 21-3991)
    Case Description: Title IX, Sexual Abuse
    NASW Supported: Moxley and Snyder-Hill
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 2/9/2022 12:00:00 AM
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    Murrell v. School District No. 1 (United States Court of Appeals, 10th Circuit, 186 F.3d 1238 (10th Cir. 1999))186 F.3d 1238 (10th Cir. 1999))
    Case Description: Peer sexual harrassment in schools
    NASW Supported: Murrell
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 6/11/1997 12:00:00 AM
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    Nabozny v. Podlesny (United States Court of Appeals, 7th Cir., 92 F.3d 446 (7th Cir. 1996))92 F.3d 446 (7th Cir. 1996))
    Case Description: Civil rights action against school officials for failing to protect gay student from peer sexual harrassment
    NASW Supported: Nabozny
    Outcome: Mixed.
    Date Brief Filed: 12/18/1995 12:00:00 AM
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    NASW v Lebanon (United States District Court for the Southern District of Ohio Western Division, 1:22-cv-258)1:22-cv-258)
    Case Description: NASW filed a complaint to declare that the Lebanon Ban (prohibition on efforts to procure or facilitate and abortion) is unlawful and for the Court to declare that NASW's members are not included in the ban.
    NASW Supported: NASW
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 5/11/2022 12:00:00 AM
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    National Federation of the Blind v. Department of Veterans Affairs; Maryland State Department of Education v. Department of Veterans Affairs (United States Supreme Court, 522 U.S. 806 (1997))522 U.S. 806 (1997))
    Case Description: Interpretation of the Blind Vending Act and proper procedures for dispute resolution
    NASW Supported: National Federation of the Blind
    Outcome: Certiorari denied.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/1/0001 12:00:00 AM
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    NCAA v. Smith (United States Supreme Court, 525 U.S. 459 (1999))525 U.S. 459 (1999))
    Case Description: Applicability of Title IX nondiscrimination to intercollegiate athletics
    NASW Supported: Smith
    Outcome: Won in narrow ruling.
    Date Brief Filed: 12/8/1998 12:00:00 AM
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    New Jersey and Pennsylvania v. Trump (U.S. District Court Eastern District of PA, 2:17-CV-04540-WB)2:17-CV-04540-WB)
    Case Description: Exemption Rules of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) allowing businesses, organizations, and nonprofits the right to refuse access and coverage for women contraception based on religious reasons.
    NASW Supported: New Jersey and Pennsylvania, Plaintiffs
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 6/7/2019 12:00:00 AM
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    New Jersey v. DHHS (U.S. District Court for the District of NJ, 2008 WL 4936933 )2008 WL 4936933 )
    Case Description: State challenge to CMS letter that affects SCHIP benefits
    NASW Supported: New Jersey
    Outcome: Dismissed due to lack of case or controversy.
    Date Brief Filed: 4/4/2008 12:00:00 AM
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    New Mexico v. Martinez (Supreme Court of New Mexico, No. 29,775)No. 29,775)
    Case Description: New Mexico prosecution of woman who used cocaine during pregnancy.
    NASW Supported: Martinez
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 3/9/2007 12:00:00 AM
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    North Carolina v Connor (Supreme Court of North Carolina, 23A21, 64A21, 442PA20)23A21, 64A21, 442PA20)
    Case Description: Juvenile life sentences without Parole Eligibility
    NASW Supported: Defendant
    Outcome: pending
    Date Brief Filed: 1/18/2022 12:00:00 AM
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    Obergefell v. Hines (Ohio, 14-3057)14-3057)
    Case Description: Uncontitionality of laws banning same sex marriage.
    NASW Supported: Plaintiff
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 5/1/2014 12:00:00 AM
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    Ohio v. Akron Center for Reproductive Health (United States Supreme Court, 497 U.S. 502 (1990))497 U.S. 502 (1990))
    Case Description: Constitutional challenge to Ohio parental notification requirement for minors seeking abortions
    NASW Supported: Akron Center for Reproductive Health
    Outcome: Lost.
    Date Brief Filed: 9/1/1989 12:00:00 AM
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    Ollier v. Sweetwater Union High School District (United States Court of Appeal for the Ninth Circuit, 12-56348)12-56348)
    Case Description: Title IX case challenging discrimination in girls' high school sports and retaliation.
    NASW Supported: Ollier, et al.
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 5/22/2013 12:00:00 AM
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    Olmstead v. L.C. ex rel. Zimring (United States Supreme Court, 527 U.S. 581 (1999))527 U.S. 581 (1999))
    Case Description: Interpretation of Americans with Disabilities Act regarding community placement for mentally disabled state patients
    NASW Supported: L.C., et al.
    Outcome: Mixed.
    Date Brief Filed: 3/1/1999 12:00:00 AM
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    Oregon v. Ashcroft (United States Court of Appeals, 9th Cir., 368 F.3d 1118 (D. Or. 2004))368 F.3d 1118 (D. Or. 2004))
    Case Description: Oregon's Death With Dignity Act
    NASW Supported: Oregon
    Outcome: Won. Also see, Supreme Court appeal, captioned Gonzales v. Oregon
    Date Brief Filed: 11/12/2002 12:00:00 AM
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    Orr v. Edgar (Illinois Appellate Court, 670 N.E.2d 1243 (Ill. App. Ct. 1996))670 N.E.2d 1243 (Ill. App. Ct. 1996))
    Case Description: Illinois voting rights case
    NASW Supported: Orr
    Outcome: Motion for leave to file amicus brief was denied by the Appellate Court of Illinois.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/1/0001 12:00:00 AM
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    Otto v. City of Boca Raton (U.S. Court of Appeals - 11th Circuit, 19-10604)19-10604)
    Case Description: Challenge to laws banning mental health providers from engaging in conversion therapy with minors.
    NASW Supported: Defendants/Appellees, City of Boca Raton, FL
    Outcome: Unfavorable
    Date Brief Filed: 6/25/2019 12:00:00 AM
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    Overton v. Bazzetta (United States Supreme Court, 539 U.S. 126 (2003))539 U.S. 126 (2003))
    Case Description: Michigan prisoner visitation rights
    NASW Supported: Bazzetta
    Outcome: Lost.
    Date Brief Filed: 2/18/2003 12:00:00 AM
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    Pambakian v Blatt (U.S. Court of Appeals 9th Circuit, 20-55076)20-55076)
    Case Description: Challenges mandatory arbitration for sexual harassment claims.
    NASW Supported: Pambakian v Blatt
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 7/6/2020 12:00:00 AM
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    Parents for Privacy v. Dallas School Districrt (U.S. Court of Appeals 9th Circuit, 18-35708)18-35708)
    Case Description: Transgender students use of facility that match their gender identity.
    NASW Supported: Dallas School District
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 3/8/2019 12:00:00 AM
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    Parker v. Franklin County Community School Corporation (United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, No. 10-3595, 2012 U.S. App. LEXIS 1783)No. 10-3595, 2012 U.S. App. LEXIS 1783)
    Case Description: Title IX case addressing scheduling disparities in girls' sports games
    NASW Supported: Amber Parker, et al.
    Outcome: Favorable. The court ruled in favor of plaintiffs' Title IX and equal protection claims and remanded for trial.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/31/2011 12:00:00 AM
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    Patterson v. McLean Credit Union (United States Supreme Court, 491 U.S. 164 (1989))491 U.S. 164 (1989))
    Case Description: Racial discrmination in employment and harrassment claim
    NASW Supported: Patterson
    Outcome: Mixed.
    Date Brief Filed: 6/1/1988 12:00:00 AM
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    Peltier v Charter Day School (U.S. Court of Appeals 4th Circuit, 20-1001 & 20-1023)20-1001 & 20-1023)
    Case Description: Title IX challenge to a school dress code policy requiring girls to wear skirts to school.
    NASW Supported: Peltier
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 6/17/2022 12:00:00 AM
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    Pennhurst State School & Hospital v. Halderman (United States Supreme Court, 451 U.S. 1 (1989))451 U.S. 1 (1989))
    Case Description: Class-action for reform of Pennsylvania state facilities for care and treatment of the mentally retarded
    NASW Supported: Halderman
    Outcome: Mixed 4/20/1981
    Date Brief Filed: 10/20/1980 12:00:00 AM
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    Pennsylvania and New Jersey v. Trump (U.S. District Court Eastern District of PA, 2:17-CV-04540-WB)2:17-CV-04540-WB)
    Case Description: Organizations refusal to provide access to and coverage of contraception based on religious exemptions under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
    NASW Supported: Pennsylvania and New Jersey, Plaintiffs
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 1/7/2019 12:00:00 AM
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    Pennsylvania and New Jersey v. Trump (U.S. District Court Eastern District of PA, 2:17-CV-04540-WB)2:17-CV-04540-WB)
    Case Description: Organizations refusal to provide access to and coverage of contraception based on religious exemptions under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
    NASW Supported: Pennsylvania and New Jersey, Plaintiffs
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 11/27/2017 12:00:00 AM
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    People of California v. FCC (United States Court of Appeals, 9th Cir., 124 F.3d 934 (1997))124 F.3d 934 (1997))
    Case Description: FCC challenge to California call blocking system for unpublished phone numbers
    NASW Supported: California
    Outcome: Won on privacy issue. 5/2/1997
    Date Brief Filed: 8/17/1995 12:00:00 AM
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    People v. Clark (California Supreme Court, 789 P.2d 127 (1990))789 P.2d 127 (1990))
    Case Description: Extent of waiver of patient-psychotherapist privilege when Tarasoff warning given
    NASW Supported: Clark
    Outcome: Lost.
    Date Brief Filed: 4/19/1990 12:00:00 AM
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    People v. Doe (Illinois Appellate Court, 103 Ill.App.3d 56 (1981))103 Ill.App.3d 56 (1981))
    Case Description: psychotherapist-patient privilege and confidentiality
    NASW Supported: Doe, McCall
    Outcome: Lost.
    Date Brief Filed: 9/1/1981 12:00:00 AM
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    People v. Wharton (California Supreme Court, 809 P.2d 290 (Cal. 1991))809 P.2d 290 (Cal. 1991))
    Case Description: Scope of psychotherapist-patient privilege when a Tarasoff warning has occurred
    NASW Supported: Wharton
    Outcome: Lost.
    Date Brief Filed: 10/26/1989 12:00:00 AM
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    Perry v. Brown (previously captioned as Perry v. Schwarzenegger) (U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, No. 10-16696)No. 10-16696)
    Case Description: California challenge to ban on same-sex marriage.
    NASW Supported: Perry, et al.
    Outcome: Favorable. Court found Prop. 8 ban on same-sex marriage to be unconstitutional.
    Date Brief Filed: 10/25/2010 12:00:00 AM
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    Perry v. Schwarzenegger (United States District Court for the Northern District of California , 704 F.Supp.2d 921 (2010))704 F.Supp.2d 921 (2010))
    Case Description: Constitutional challenge to California's Proposition 8 which banned same-sex marriage.
    NASW Supported: Perry, et al.
    Outcome: Won. Court held that ban on same-sex marriage violates the Equal Protection Clause. See brief filed in U.S. Court of Appeals.
    Date Brief Filed: 2/3/2010 12:00:00 AM
  • Motion for Leave to File
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    Perry v. Schwarzenegger (see Perry v. Brown) (U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, No. 10-16696)No. 10-16696)
    Case Description: Constitutionality of ban on same-sex marriage
    NASW Supported: Perry, et al.
    Outcome: Favorable.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/1/0001 12:00:00 AM
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    Pickup v. Brown (United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, CA No. 12-17681)CA No. 12-17681)
    Case Description: Appeal of a legal challenge to California's SB 1172 which banned licensed mental health professions from providing "sexual orientation change efforts" as a treatment for minors.
    NASW Supported: Brown, et al.
    Outcome: Favorable. Court upheld ban on reparative therapy for minors.
    Date Brief Filed: 2/6/2013 12:00:00 AM
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    Planned Parenthood of Southeastern Pennsylvania v. Casey (United States Supreme Court, 505 U.S. 833 (1992))505 U.S. 833 (1992))
    Case Description: Abortion rights case
    NASW Supported: Planned Parenthood of Southeastern Pennsylvania
    Outcome: Mixed.
    Date Brief Filed: 3/6/1992 12:00:00 AM
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    Planned Parenthood of the Great Northwest v. State of Alaska (Supreme Court of Alaska, Nos. 15010, 15030, 15039)Nos. 15010, 15030, 15039)
    Case Description: Legal challenge to Alaska's parental notification law for minors seeking abortion.
    NASW Supported: Planned Parenthood of the Great Northwest
    Outcome: Reversed/Remanded
    Date Brief Filed: 7/27/2022 12:00:00 AM
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    Pueblo v Haas (Michigan Supreme Court, 164046)164046)
    Case Description: Child custody rights for separated unmarried LGBTQ couples,
    NASW Supported: Carrie Pueblo
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 5/3/2023 12:00:00 AM
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    Pulliam v. Smith (North Carolina Supreme Court, 501 S.E.2d 898 (N.C. 1998))501 S.E.2d 898 (N.C. 1998))
    Case Description: North Carolina gay father custody case
    NASW Supported: Smith
    Outcome: Lost.
    Date Brief Filed: 2/14/1997 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • What Are the Rights of Children in Gay and Lesbian Families? (2002 LDF Legal Article)
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    R.M.A. v. Blue Springs School District (Missouri Supreme Court, SC 96683)SC 96683)
    Case Description: Sex discrimination lawsuit involving transgender students being excluded from facilities that correspond to their gender identity.
    NASW Supported: Appellant/R.M.A.
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 2/27/2018 12:00:00 AM
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    Rasul v. Bush (United States Supreme Court, 124 S.Ct. 2686 (2004))124 S.Ct. 2686 (2004))
    Case Description: Human rights and due process for detainees in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba
    NASW Supported: Shafiq Rasul
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/14/2004 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Social Workers and International Human Rights (2004 LDF Legal Article)
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    Redding v. Safford Unified School District #1, et al (also see Safford v. Redding Supreme Court Appeal Brief) (United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, 531 F.3d 1071 (2008))531 F.3d 1071 (2008))
    Case Description: Legal challenge to the strip search by school officials of a 13-year-old girl
    NASW Supported: April Redding
    Outcome: Won. Court held that strip search in this case was unconstitutional.
    Date Brief Filed: 2/21/2008 12:00:00 AM
  • Motion for Leave to File Amicus Brief
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    Request for an Advisory Opinion A-107 (Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, SJC-09163)SJC-09163)
    Case Description: Massachusetts advisory opinion to Mass. Senate re: civil unions bill; Goodridge follow-up
    NASW Supported: N/A
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/1/0001 12:00:00 AM
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    Right to Choose v. Byrne (New Jersey Supreme Court, 450 A.2d 925 (1982))450 A.2d 925 (1982))
    Case Description: New Jersey challenge to state law prohibiting state-funded elective abortions
    NASW Supported: Right to Choose
    Outcome: Mixed. Court found NJ restriction on medically necessary abortions unconstitutional, but found it permissible to prohibit elective, nontherapeutic abortions
    Date Brief Filed: 1/1/0001 12:00:00 AM
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    Robicheaux, et al v. Caldwell (U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, 14-31037)14-31037)
    Case Description: Marriage equality for same sex couples
    NASW Supported: Robicheaux
    Outcome: Favorable-Reversed and Remanded
    Date Brief Filed: 10/24/2014 12:00:00 AM
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    Roe v. Crawford (United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit, 514 F.3d 789 514 F.3d 789 (8th Cir. 2008), cert. denied, 76 U.S.L.W. 3646 (U.S. Oct. 6, 2008) )514 F.3d 789 514 F.3d 789 (8th Cir. 2008), cert. denied, 76 U.S.L.W. 3646 (U.S. Oct. 6, 2008) )
    Case Description: Missouri inmates' access to abortion services case.
    NASW Supported: Roe, et al.
    Outcome: Court granted relief.
    Date Brief Filed: 12/11/2006 12:00:00 AM
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    Roe v. Norton (United States Supreme Court, 422 U.S. 391 (1975))422 U.S. 391 (1975))
    Case Description: Challenge to Connecticut criminal law requiring welfare applicants to identify the noncustodial paren of their childrent for purposes of child support enforcement
    NASW Supported: Sharon Roe
    Outcome: Won. Case was remanded and appealed a second time as Maher v. Doe, and remanded again for consideration of whether state can make its own determination of whether disclosure of the putative father's identity is in the best interests of the child.
    Date Brief Filed: 6/19/1974 12:00:00 AM
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    Roe v. Planned Parenthood Southwest Ohio Region (Supreme Court of Ohio, 122 Ohio St.3d 399 (2009))122 Ohio St.3d 399 (2009))
    Case Description: Privacy of third-party medical records in litigation.
    NASW Supported: Planned Parenthood
    Outcome: Won. Court protected privacy of medical records.
    Date Brief Filed: 6/16/2008 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Romer v. Evans (United States Supreme Court, 517 U.S. 620 (1996))517 U.S. 620 (1996))
    Case Description: Challenge to Colorado constitutional amendment prohibiting laws protecting homosexuals from discrimination
    NASW Supported: Evans
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 5/3/1993 12:00:00 AM
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    Roper v. Simmons (United States Supreme Court, 543 U.S. 551 (2005))543 U.S. 551 (2005))
    Case Description: Challenge to death penalty for 17-year-olds
    NASW Supported: Simmons
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 7/19/2004 12:00:00 AM
  • Supreme Court Decision
  • Social Workers and Capital Punishment for Juveniles (2004 LDF Legal Article)
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    Rosenbrahn et al v. Daugaard (U.S. Court of Appeals 8th Circuit, 15-1186)15-1186)
    Case Description: Marriage equality for same sex couples
    NASW Supported: Rosenbrahn - Plaintiff/Appellees
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 3/26/2015 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Decision 8/11/2015 Text
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    Rosie v. North Carolina Department of Human Resources (North Carolina Supreme Court, 491 S.E.2d 535 (N.C. 1997))491 S.E.2d 535 (N.C. 1997))
    Case Description: Challenge to North Carolina policy of fuding childbirth expenses but not abortions for indigent women
    NASW Supported: Rosie
    Outcome: Lost 10/3/1997
    Date Brief Filed: 7/22/1996 12:00:00 AM
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    Rowinsky v. Bryan Independent School District (United States Supreme Court, 519 U.S. 861 (1996))519 U.S. 861 (1996))
    Case Description: Title IX peer sexual harrassment lawsuit
    NASW Supported: Rowinsky
    Outcome: Certiorari denied. 4/1/1996
    Date Brief Filed: 5/12/1995 12:00:00 AM
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    Rudder v. Pataki (New York Court of Appeals, 711 N.E.2d 701 (N.Y. 1999))711 N.E.2d 701 (N.Y. 1999))
    Case Description: Challenge to New York executive order affecting educational requirements for hospital social work directors; NASW NYC Chapter was a party to the litigation
    NASW Supported: Rudder
    Outcome: Lost.
    Date Brief Filed: 7/29/1997 12:00:00 AM
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    Rupp v. Beccera (U.S. District Court Central District of CA, 8:17-CV-00746-JLS-JDE)8:17-CV-00746-JLS-JDE)
    Case Description: Second Amendment and other constitutional challenges to California’s Assault Weapon Control Act.
    NASW Supported: Becerra, Defendant
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 5/9/2019 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Docket 97
  • Decision 7/31/2019 Text
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    Rust v. Sullivan (United States Supreme Court, 500 U.S. 173 (1991))500 U.S. 173 (1991))
    Case Description: Challenge to federal regulations prohibiting abortion counseling and referral in Title X family planning programs
    NASW Supported: Rust
    Outcome: Lost 5/23/1991
    Date Brief Filed: 7/27/1990 12:00:00 AM
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    Saada v. Golan (U.S. Court of Appeals 2nd Circuit, 19-820)19-820)
    Case Description: Risk of harm to a child in a domestic violence case outside of the U.S.
    NASW Supported: Golan, Respondent/Appellant
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 5/1/2019 12:00:00 AM
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    Sagaille v Carrega (Supreme Court of New York, Appellate Division, First Department, 2020-02369)2020-02369)
    Case Description: Retaliatory Defamation Suit
    NASW Supported: Carrega
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 8/10/2020 12:00:00 AM
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    Sammataro v. Sammataro (Rhode Island Supreme Court, 620 A.2d 1253 (1993))620 A.2d 1253 (1993))
    Case Description: Child custody decision based upon mother's receipt of public assistance
    NASW Supported: Marianne Sammataro
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 2/22/1993 12:00:00 AM
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    Samuels v. New York State Department of Health (Court of Appeals, State of New York, 7 N.Y.3d 338, 855 N.E.2d 1 (2006))7 N.Y.3d 338, 855 N.E.2d 1 (2006))
    Case Description: New York same-sex marriage case
    NASW Supported: Samuels, et al
    Outcome: Lost. Appeal combined with Hernandez v. Robles
    Date Brief Filed: 4/14/2006 12:00:00 AM
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    Samuels v. New York State Dept of Health (Supreme Court of New York, County of Albany, No. 1967-04 (December 7, 2004), affirmed, 29 A.D.3d 9, 811 N.Y.S.2d 136 (2006))No. 1967-04 (December 7, 2004), affirmed, 29 A.D.3d 9, 811 N.Y.S.2d 136 (2006))
    Case Description: New York same-sex marriage case
    NASW Supported: Samuels, et al.
    Outcome: Lost. But see brief in Court of Appeals.
    Date Brief Filed: 8/16/2004 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • What Do the Courts Say about Same-Sex Marriage? (2004 LDF Legal Article)
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    Schneider v. Vine Street Clinic (Appellate Court of Illinois, Fourth District, 77 Ill.App.3d 946 (1979))77 Ill.App.3d 946 (1979))
    Case Description: Illinois case regarding duty to warn or hospitalize potentially dangerous patient
    NASW Supported: Vine Street Clinic, Fenton Drake, and Jay Mogerman
    Outcome: Won on procedural grounds.
    Date Brief Filed: 6/1/1979 12:00:00 AM
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    Schroeder v. Schroeder (Illinois Supreme Court, 172 Ill.2d 568 (1997))172 Ill.2d 568 (1997))
    Case Description: Sexual orientation of gay custodial parent
    NASW Supported: Rebecca Lynn Schroeder
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 7/11/1996 12:00:00 AM
  • What Are the Rights of Children in Gay and Lesbian Families? (2002 LDF Legal Article)
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    Secretary of Labor v. Integra Health Mgmt (OSHA , 13-1124)13-1124)
    Case Description: Whether Respondent’s industry recognized the hazard of workplace violence and the role of the Occupational Safety & Health Administration’s (OSHA’s) Guidelines for Preventing Workplace Violence for Health Care and Social Service Workers (the “Guidelines”)
    NASW Supported: Secretary of Labor - Complainant
    Outcome: pending
    Date Brief Filed: 12/18/2015 12:00:00 AM
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    Sevcik v. Sandoval (consolidated with Jackson v. Abercrombie) (United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, Case Nos. 12-17668, 12-16995, and 12-16998)Case Nos. 12-17668, 12-16995, and 12-16998)
    Case Description: Same-sex couples in Hawaii and Nevada seeking legal recognition of the right to marriage
    NASW Supported: Beverly Sevcik, et al., Natasha N. Jackson, et al.
    Outcome: Pending.
    Date Brief Filed: 10/25/2013 12:00:00 AM
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    Sharon S. v. San Diego County Superior Court (California Supreme Court, 2004 WL 304340)2004 WL 304340)
    Case Description: Second parent adoption, child custody and vistitation with gay/lesbian parents
    NASW Supported: Annette F.
    Outcome: Mixed. Decision seems to address different issues than those raised by NASW brief.
    Date Brief Filed: 7/5/2002 12:00:00 AM
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    Sharpe v. Westmoreland (Illinois Supreme Court, 12-4863)12-4863)
    Case Description: Whether an individual who entered into a civil union with a child’s parent (the individual’s partner) has standing to seek visitation as a stepparent after the child’s parent passed away.
    NASW Supported: Appellant
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 12/3/2021 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Decision 9/24/2020 Text
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    Shields v. Madigan (Supreme Court of New York, Appellate Division: Second Judicial Dept., 32 A.D.3d 1036, 820 N.Y.S.2d 890, N.Y.A.D. 2 Dept. (2006))32 A.D.3d 1036, 820 N.Y.S.2d 890, N.Y.A.D. 2 Dept. (2006))
    Case Description: New York same-sex marriage case
    NASW Supported: Shields, et al.
    Outcome: Lost.
    Date Brief Filed: 7/5/2005 12:00:00 AM
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    Shuai v. State of Indiana (Court of Appeals of Indiana, 966 N.E.2d 619 (2012))966 N.E.2d 619 (2012))
    Case Description: Opposition to criminal prosecution of a woman who attempted suicide while pregnant.
    NASW Supported: Bei Bei Shuai
    Outcome: Mixed. Court granted motion for bail, but allowed prosecution to proceed.
    Date Brief Filed: 7/28/2011 12:00:00 AM
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    Sinclair v. San Jose Unified School District Board of Education (9th Circuit Court of Appeals, 22-15827)22-15827)
    Case Description: Defending non-discrimination protections supporting LGBTQ students
    NASW Supported: San Jose Unified School District Board of Education
    Outcome: Unfavorable
    Date Brief Filed: 7/22/2022 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Small v. Orange County (U.S. Court of Appeals 2nd Circuit, 17-3113)17-3113)
    Case Description: Constitutional right to mental healthcare for people in immigration detention.
    NASW Supported: Plaintiffs/Appelants, Michelet Charles and Carol Small
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 2/20/2018 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Smith v. NCAA (United States Court of Appeal for the Third Circuit, 266 F.3d 152 (2001))266 F.3d 152 (2001))
    Case Description: Title IX discrmination in intercollegiate athletics
    NASW Supported: Smith
    Outcome: Mixed.
    Date Brief Filed: 11/3/2000 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Sonnheim v. State Board of Marriage Counselor Examiners (New Jersey Superior Court, App. Div., 450 A.2d 1331 (1982))450 A.2d 1331 (1982))
    Case Description: Licensed social worker qualifies as a marriage counselor
    NASW Supported: Sonnheim
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 9/2/1981 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Soule v CIAC (U.S. Court of Appeals 2nd Circuit, 21-1365)21-1365)
    Case Description: Transgender inclusive policy
    NASW Supported: CIAC
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 10/14/2021 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Text of Brief
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    Stanford v. Kentucky (United States Supreme Court, 492 U.S. 361, 110 S.Ct. 23 (1989))492 U.S. 361, 110 S.Ct. 23 (1989))
    Case Description: Challenge to juvenile death penalty
    NASW Supported: Stanford
    Outcome: Lost.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/1/0001 12:00:00 AM
  • Decision 6/26/1989
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    State of Alabama v. Ankrom (consolidated with State v. Kimbrough) (Supreme Court of Alabama, No. 11-10176, 2013 Ala. LEXIS 8)No. 11-10176, 2013 Ala. LEXIS 8)
    Case Description: Opposition to criminal prosecution of women under child endangerment laws for conduct during pregnancy.
    NASW Supported: Hope Ankrom
    Outcome: Unfavorable. Conviction upheld. Court applied law to endangerment of an unborn child.
    Date Brief Filed: 3/13/2012 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    State of Alabama v. Kimbrough (Supreme Court of Alabama, No. 11-10219)No. 11-10219)
    Case Description: Petition for certiorari in a legal challenge to the criminal prosecution of a woman for using illegal substances
    NASW Supported: Amanda Kimbrough
    Outcome: Accepted for review.
    Date Brief Filed: 11/18/2011 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    State of Alabama v. Kimbrough (consolidated with State v. Ankrom) (Supreme Court of Alabama, No. 11-10219, 2013 Ala. LEXIS 8)No. 11-10219, 2013 Ala. LEXIS 8)
    Case Description: Opposition to criminal prosecution of woman under child endangerment law for her conduct during pregnancy.
    NASW Supported: Amanda H. Kimbrough
    Outcome: Unfavorable. Conviction upheld. Court applied law to endangerment of an unborn child.
    Date Brief Filed: 3/13/2012 12:00:00 AM
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    State of Arizona v. Hope King (Superior Court of Arizona, County of Maricopa, CR2001-003384)CR2001-003384)
    Case Description: Post-conviction petition based on postpartum psychosis
    NASW Supported: Hope King
    Outcome: Pending.
    Date Brief Filed: 4/2/2012 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    State of Illinois v Moore (Supreme of Illinois, 126461, 126932)126461, 126932)
    Case Description: Juveniles convicted of a capital offense in an adult court without taking into consideration their age and developmental level given life sentences without the possibility of parole.
    NASW Supported: Moore
    Outcome: Favorable in Part. Review Granted. Partial Relief
    Date Brief Filed: 7/27/2022 12:00:00 AM
  • Amicus Brief
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    State of Mississippi v. Buckhalter (Supreme Court of Mississippi, No. 2012-CA-00725)No. 2012-CA-00725)
    Case Description: Opposition to criminal prosecution of Mississippi woman for delivering stillborn fetus.
    NASW Supported: Nina Buckhalter
    Outcome: Favorable. Dismissal of criminal indictment was affirmed.
    Date Brief Filed: 11/13/2012 12:00:00 AM
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    State of New Jersey in the Interest of V.A. (Supreme Court of New Jersey, No. 068707; 2012 N.J. LEXIS 899)No. 068707; 2012 N.J. LEXIS 899)
    Case Description: New Jersey case reviewing the legal standard for waiver of juvenile justice adjudications to adult court.
    NASW Supported:
    Outcome: Favorable. The court expanded the discretion of courts in reviewing prosecutorial decisions on waiver of juveniles to criminal court.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/9/2012 12:00:00 AM
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    State of Ohio v. Clemons (Court of Appeals for Highland County, Ohio, Fourth Appellate District, 2013-Ohio-3415; 2013 Ohio App. LEXIS 3504)2013-Ohio-3415; 2013 Ohio App. LEXIS 3504)
    Case Description: Ohio prosecution of of woman for her conduct during pregnancy, including use of illegal drugs.
    NASW Supported: Astasia Clemons
    Outcome: Favorable. Conviction vacated and trial court reversed.
    Date Brief Filed: 5/3/2013 12:00:00 AM
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    State v. Aiwohi (Hawaii Supreme Court, 2005 WL 3163506 (Hawai'i))2005 WL 3163506 (Hawai'i))
    Case Description: Drug dependent mother charged with manslaughter after death of her newborn child
    NASW Supported: Aiwohi
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/1/0001 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Appendix to Brief
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    State v. Baxley (Louisiana Supreme Court, 656 So.2d 973 (1995))656 So.2d 973 (1995))
    Case Description: Constitutional challenge to Louisiana "crimes against nature" statute
    NASW Supported: Baxley
    Outcome: Lost.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/6/1994 12:00:00 AM
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    State v. Butler (Louisiana Court of Appeal, No. 96-KW-0707 (La. Ct. App.))No. 96-KW-0707 (La. Ct. App.))
    Case Description: Challenge to Louisiana death penalty for child rape
    NASW Supported: Butler
    Outcome: won
    Date Brief Filed: 1/1/0001 12:00:00 AM
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    State v. Gibbs (Circuit Court of Lowndes County, Mississippi, No. 2007-0031-CRI)No. 2007-0031-CRI)
    Case Description: Challenging the prosecution of a teenager for suffering a stillbirth after carrying a pregnancy to term and abusing illegal drugs.
    NASW Supported: Rennie Gibbs
    Outcome: Defendant's motion to dismiss denied. See brief filed in Gibbs v. State.
    Date Brief Filed: 11/23/2009 12:00:00 AM
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    State v. Hernandez (District Court in and for Oklahoma County, No. CF-2004-4801)No. CF-2004-4801)
    Case Description: Oklahoma prosecution of woman who used drugs during pregnancy and delivered stillbirth
    NASW Supported: Hernandez
    Outcome: Defendant pled guilty to lesser crime.
    Date Brief Filed: 9/20/2007 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    State v. Kemp (Pennsylvania Superior Court, 643 A.2d 705 (Pa. Super. Ct. 1994))643 A.2d 705 (Pa. Super. Ct. 1994))
    Case Description: Pennsylvania challenge to prosecution of pregnant substance abusers
    NASW Supported: Kemp
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 7/1/1993 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Legal Developments in Treating and Prosecuting Pregnant Substance Abusers (2004 LDF Legal Article)
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    State v. Limon (Kansas Supreme Court, 122 P.3d 22 (2005))122 P.3d 22 (2005))
    Case Description: Kansas "Romeo & Juliet" Law unequally applied to gay teens
    NASW Supported: Limon
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 8/9/2004 12:00:00 AM
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    State v. Lopes (Rhode Island Supreme Court, 660 A.2d 707 (R.I. 1995))660 A.2d 707 (R.I. 1995))
    Case Description: Rhode Island appeal of prosecution for committing "the abominable and detestable crime against nature"
    NASW Supported: Lopes
    Outcome: Lost 6/21/1995
    Date Brief Filed: 1/1/0001 12:00:00 AM
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    State v. Martinez (Supreme Court of the State of New Mexico, 141 N.M. 763, 161 P.3d 260 (2007))141 N.M. 763, 161 P.3d 260 (2007))
    Case Description: New Mexico appeal of court decision finding that criminal prosecution of woman for continuing her pregnancy while suffering from drug addiction was not legal.
    NASW Supported: Martinez
    Outcome: Won. State supreme court decided not to hear the case, leaving the positive lower court opinion intact.
    Date Brief Filed: 3/9/2007 12:00:00 AM
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    State v. Morales (Texas Supreme Court, 869 S.W.2d 941 (Tex. 1994))869 S.W.2d 941 (Tex. 1994))
    Case Description: Challenge to Texas criminal sodomy statute
    NASW Supported: Morales, et al.
    Outcome: Lost.
    Date Brief Filed: 12/14/1992 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    State v. Peppers (Sourth Carolina Supreme Court, 346 S.C. 502 (2001))346 S.C. 502 (2001))
    Case Description: Mother of stillborn child charged with felony for substance abuse during pregnancy
    NASW Supported: Peppers
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 5/11/2001 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    State v. Planned Parenthood of Alaska (Alaska Supreme Court, 171 P.3d 577 (2007); No. S-11365)171 P.3d 577 (2007); No. S-11365)
    Case Description: Challenge to judicial bypass procedure for minors seeking abortions
    NASW Supported: Planned Parenthood of Alaska
    Outcome: Court granted relief and held that Parental Consent Act violated state constitution.
    Date Brief Filed: 10/1/2004 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    State v. Wilson (Louisiana Supreme Court, 685 So.2d 1063 (La. 1996))685 So.2d 1063 (La. 1996))
    Case Description: Challenge to Louisiana death penalty for child rape
    NASW Supported: Wilson
    Outcome: Lost.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/1/0001 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Stockman v. Trump (U.S. District Court, Central District of California, 5:15-CK-01799-JGB-KK)5:15-CK-01799-JGB-KK)
    Case Description: Blocking the proposed ban on military service for transgender people as a violation of the 5th Amendment equal protection and due process clauses.
    NASW Supported: Plaintiffs, Stockman, et al
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 11/18/2017 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Success Against All Odds v. Department of Public Welfare of Com. (Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court, 700 A.2d 1340 (1997))700 A.2d 1340 (1997))
    Case Description: Class action challenge to Pennsylvania suspension of child support pass-through payments for public assistance beneficiaries
    NASW Supported: Success Against All Odds
    Outcome: Lost.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/1/0001 12:00:00 AM
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    Susan Seven-Sky v. Eric Holder (U.S. Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit, 661 F.3d 1 (2011); cert. denied, 2012 U.S. LEXIS 4945 (U.S., June 29, 2012) )661 F.3d 1 (2011); cert. denied, 2012 U.S. LEXIS 4945 (U.S., June 29, 2012) )
    Case Description: Appeal of a challenge to the federal health reform law, the Affordable Care Act. Amicus brief supports the ACA based on expanded access to care for women.
    NASW Supported: Seven-Sky, et al.
    Outcome: Favorable. Court struck the challenge to the ACA, holding that it was a valid exercise of the Commerce Clause.
    Date Brief Filed: 7/5/2011 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Suter v. Artist M. (United States Supreme Court, 112 S.Ct. 1360 (1992))112 S.Ct. 1360 (1992))
    Case Description: Private cause of action under Adoption Assistance and Child Welfare Act
    NASW Supported: Artist M.
    Outcome: Lost 3/25/1992
    Date Brief Filed: 9/11/1991 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    T
    T.B. v. L.R.M. (Pennsylvania Supreme Court, 786 A.2d 913 (Pa. 2001))786 A.2d 913 (Pa. 2001))
    Case Description: Lesbian child visitation case.
    NASW Supported: T.B.
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 4/12/2001 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    T.F. v. B.L. (Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, 442 Mass. 522, 813 N.E.2d 1244 (2004))442 Mass. 522, 813 N.E.2d 1244 (2004))
    Case Description: Lesbian child-support case
    NASW Supported: T.F.
    Outcome: Lost. Court found implied contract to co-parent was unenforceable. Court refused to create a duty to pay child support.
    Date Brief Filed: 2/24/2004 12:00:00 AM
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    Thompson v. Oklahoma (United States Supreme Court, 487 U.S. 815 (1988))487 U.S. 815 (1988))
    Case Description: Death penalty prohibited for juvenile aged 15 years old
    NASW Supported: Thompson
    Outcome: Mixed.
    Date Brief Filed: 5/14/1987 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Tingley v Ferguson (U.S. Court of Appeals 9th Circuit, 21-35815, 21-35856)21-35815, 21-35856)
    Case Description: Licensed health-care providers cannot conduct conversion therapy on Children in Washington State
    NASW Supported: Ferguson
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 1/25/2022 12:00:00 AM
  • Amicus Brief
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    Trear v Sills (California Court of Appeal, 82 Cal.Rptr.2d 281 (Ct. App. 1999))82 Cal.Rptr.2d 281 (Ct. App. 1999))
    Case Description: Psyvhotherapist's lack of duty to third parties when treating alleged childhood sexual abuse victims
    NASW Supported: Sills
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/16/1996 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Do Social Workers Owe a Legal Duty to the Alleged Abuser of a Client? (2002 LDF Legal Article)
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    Tucker v Faith Bible Chapel (U.S. Court of Appeals 10th Circuit, 20-1230-cv)20-1230-cv)
    Case Description: Challenge to expanding Ministerial Exemptions
    NASW Supported: Tucker
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 1/19/2021 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    U
    U.S. and Little Sisters of the Poor v. Pennsylvania (U.S. Court of Appeals 3rd Circuit, 19-1189)19-1189)
    Case Description: Organizations refusal to provide contraception coverage on the basis of religious grounds under the exemptions to the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
    NASW Supported: Pennsylvania
    Outcome: Unfavorable
    Date Brief Filed: 3/25/2019 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Decision 7.12.2019 Text
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    United States v. Arizona (United States Court of Appeal for the Ninth Circuit, No. 10-16645)No. 10-16645)
    Case Description: Federal challenge to Arizona SB 1070, as an improper usurption of federal authority. Brief focuses on harm to immigrant women due to restrictive state provisions.
    NASW Supported: United States of America
    Outcome: Won. Court affirmed preliminary injunction, finding that the U.S. was likely to succeed in its challenge to sections of SB 1070.
    Date Brief Filed: 9/30/2010 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    United States v. Virginia (United States Supreme Court, 518 U.S. 515 (1996))518 U.S. 515 (1996))
    Case Description: Virginia Military Institute (VMI) women's equality case
    NASW Supported: United States
    Outcome: Won 6/25/1996
    Date Brief Filed: 11/16/1995 12:00:00 AM
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    Varnum v. Brien (Supreme Court of Iowa, 763 N.W.2d 862 (2009))763 N.W.2d 862 (2009))
    Case Description: Iowa same-sex marriage case
    NASW Supported: Varnum, et al.
    Outcome: Won. Court struck down ban on same-sex marriage.
    Date Brief Filed: 3/28/2008 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Victorelli v. Shadyside Hospital (United States Court of Appeals, 3rd Cir., 128 F.3d 184 (3rd Cir. 1997))128 F.3d 184 (3rd Cir. 1997))
    Case Description: Family Medical Leave Act case
    NASW Supported: Victorelli
    Outcome: Won. 11/3/1997
    Date Brief Filed: 3/20/1997 12:00:00 AM
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    Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) (Board of Immigration Appeals, 999999999999)999999999999)
    Case Description: ) supported protecting confidentiality of Violence Against Women’s Act (VAWA) applicants
    NASW Supported: Respondent Mohammad Ali Ayobi
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 12/3/2021 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Decision 2/24/2021 Text
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    Waters v. Ricketts (U.S. Court of Appeals 8th Circuit, 15-1452)15-1452)
    Case Description: Marriage equality for same sex couples
    NASW Supported: Waters - Plaintiffs/Appellees
    Outcome: Favorable
    Date Brief Filed: 4/24/2015 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Decision 8.11.2015 Text
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    Webster v. Reproductive Health Services (United States Supreme Court, 492 U.S. 490 (1989))492 U.S. 490 (1989))
    Case Description: Missouri abortion rights case
    NASW Supported: Reproductive Health Services, et al.
    Outcome: Lost.
    Date Brief Filed: 3/30/1989 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Weeks v. Connick (United States District Court, E.D. La. E.D. Louisiana, 733 F.Supp. 1036 (E.D. La. 1990))733 F.Supp. 1036 (E.D. La. 1990))
    Case Description: Lousiana case clarifying repeal of criminal abortion statutes
    NASW Supported: Weeks, et al.
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 11/13/1989 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Decision 1/23/1990
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    West Virginia Regional Jail and Correctional Facility Authority v. A.B. (West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals, 13-0037)13-0037)
    Case Description: Brief to request the WV Supreme Court of Appeals to reconsider a decision that absolves the state of responsibility when a prisoner is raped by a state correctional officer.
    NASW Supported: Plaintiff/Respondent, A.B.
    Outcome: favorable; petition for rehearing granted. Decision 06/12/14
    Date Brief Filed: 5/9/2014 12:00:00 AM
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    White v. White (Missouri Court of Appeals for the Western District, --- S.W.3d ----, 2009 WL 1748551, No. WD69580)No. WD69580)
    Case Description: Child custody dispute involving lesbian couple and sibling pair.
    NASW Supported: Leslea Diane White
    Outcome: Case dismissed; Application for transfer to Supreme Court denied (7/28/2009)
    Date Brief Filed: 7/17/2008 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Whitner v. South Carolina (United States Supreme Court, 523 U.S. 1145 (1998))523 U.S. 1145 (1998))
    Case Description: South Carolina case on child abuse reporting for cocaine use during pregnancy
    NASW Supported: Whitner
    Outcome: Certiorari denied.
    Date Brief Filed: 4/6/1998 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Whitner v. South Carolina (United States District Court for the District of South Carolina, C/A No. 2:98-3564-23AJ)C/A No. 2:98-3564-23AJ)
    Case Description: Habeas corpus petition for woman prosecuted for using cocaine during pregnancy
    NASW Supported: Whitner
    Outcome:
    Date Brief Filed: 1/21/1999 12:00:00 AM
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    Wiggins v. Smith (United States Supreme Court, 539 U.S. 510 (2003))539 U.S. 510 (2003))
    Case Description: Social worker as death penalty sentence mitigation specialist
    NASW Supported: Wiggins
    Outcome: Won.
    Date Brief Filed: 1/9/2003 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
  • Social Workers as Death Penalty Mitigation Specialists (2003 LDF Legal Article)
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    Williams v. Kingdom Hall (Utah Supreme Court, Utah Supreme Court)Utah Supreme Court)
    Case Description: Whether churches are exempt from intentional torts that are religiously motivated.
    NASW Supported: Williams
    Outcome: Pending
    Date Brief Filed: 5/22/2019 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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    Windsor v. United States (United States Court of Appeal for the Second Circcuit, No. 12-2335)No. 12-2335)
    Case Description: Legal challenge by lesbian widow to the federal Defense of Marriage Act
    NASW Supported: Edie Windsor
    Outcome: Favorable. Appeals court affirmed district court ruling that DOMA is unconstitutional.
    Date Brief Filed: 9/13/2012 12:00:00 AM
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    Wyatt v. Fletcher and Newell (United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, 718 F.3d 496; 2013 U.S. App. LEXIS 11045)718 F.3d 496; 2013 U.S. App. LEXIS 11045)
    Case Description: Federal case challenging Texas school officials' nonconsensual "outing" of lesbian student to her parent.
    NASW Supported: Barbara Wyatt
    Outcome: Unfavorable. Federal claims against coaches dismissed.
    Date Brief Filed: 6/20/2012 12:00:00 AM
  • Text of Brief
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