U.S. Supreme Court Affirms UC Hastings’ Policy in Christian Legal Society v. Martinez, et al. Decision

The Supreme Court of the United States affirmed the decision of the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit in Christian Legal Society v. Martinez, et al., signifying an important win in the country's highest court for the College's policy on recognition of student organizations and for higher education generally.

In the ruling authored by Justice Ginsburg, the decision stated: "Compliance with Hastings' all-comers policy, we conclude, is a reasonable, viewpoint-neutral condition on access to the student-organization forum."

"We are very pleased with the Supreme Court's decision.  The College's intent has always been to ensure the leadership, educational and social opportunities afforded by officially recognized student organizations are available to all students attending public institutions.  The Court's ruling validates our policy, which is rooted in equity and fairness," said Leo Martinez, Acting Chancellor and Dean, Hastings College of the Law.  

Justice Ginsburg delivered the opinion of the Court, in which Justices Stevens, Kennedy, Breyer and Sotomayor joined.  Justices Stevens and Kennedy joined the majority opinion in full and filed concurring opinions.  Justice Alito filed a dissenting opinion in which Chief Justice Roberts and Justices Scalia and Thomas joined.  

COURT'S DECISION:        Available at http://www.supremecourt.gov/

BRIEFS:        Available at http://www.abanet.org/publiced/preview/briefs/april2010.shtml

PRESS CONTACT: Ellen Crosson, 415.581.8855, communications@uchastings.edu

Press release