Federal Judiciary

Navy seeks early hearing in sonar case

By Akin Gump Supreme Court Practice Group

U.S. Navy leaders have asked the Supreme Court to move up on next Term’s argument calendar their appeal testing the power of courts to curb the use of sonar transmissions during training exercises at sea, in order to protect whales and dolphins.  The Court on Monday granted review of Winter (Navy Secretary) v. Natural Resources Defense Council (07-1239), and the expectation at the time was that it was likely to be heard in January.

In a motion filed Tuesday, Acting U.S. Solicitor General Gregory G. Garre asked for a hearing date in the first sitting, Oct. 6-15, saying that a later hearing could mean complications — including the possibility that the case might become moot.  Garre said the request was not opposed by the other side.

The Court may have to move a case already scheduled for that period, since the Court has indicated earlier that the October calendar was complete.  The present lineup for October is here.

Full post as published by SCOTUSBLOG on June 25, 2008 (boomark / email).