(Subscription required) In a first-of-its-kind ruling, the 9th Circuit held that federal evidence rules bar using a nolo contendere plea to defeat a §1983 claim under Heck v. Humphrey, reinstating a prisoner's excessive-force lawsuit against two Kern Valley State Prison officers.

Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero presented Awards of Excellence at three honored schools across the state during Constitution Month, recognizing their efforts to expand civic education and student leadership.

Div.

A trial judge evinced insufficient regard for the religious convictions of a father who, as a practicing Sikh, wanted his children’s hair uncut, Div. One of the Fourth District Court of Appeal declared yesterday, holding that it was an abuse of discretion to leave the choice to the children, a girl, 7, and a boy, 5.