Justices examine whether agency penalties against AT&T and Verizon need greater jury trial protections
The U.S. Supreme Court recently heard arguments over whether the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) process for issuing fines to telecommunications companies complies with the Seventh Amendment right to a jury trial. The consolidated cases involve penalties exceeding $100 million against AT&T and Verizon tied to allegations that customer location data was sold to third parties without proper consent. The court’s decision could affect how the FCC and other agencies enforce civil penalties.
During arguments, several justices questioned the FCC’s position that its forfeiture orders are not binding unless the agency seeks collection through a federal court, where a jury could hear the dispute. Justice Brett Kavanaugh raised concerns to Justice Department attorney Vivek Suri about whether companies clearly understood their options for contesting the fines. Attorney Suri affirmed that the order was “extremely clear” that the corporation had a right to a jury trial.
Lower courts reached different conclusions, and the Supreme Court is expected to issue a ruling by the end of June.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For the Supreme Court justices as they consider constitutional protections in their deliberations and decisions.
- For FCC Chairman Carr and other commissioners as they enforce consumer protection laws through legal procedures.
Sources: Washington Examiner, Reuters
