Author: Donald Scarinci

NJ Supreme Court to Consider Suit by Catholic School Teacher Terminated for Pre-Marital Pregnancy

The Supreme Court of New Jersey has agreed to consider the case of a New Jersey Catholic school teacher who was terminated for becoming pregnant via premarital sex. The issue in Crisitello v. St. Theresa School is whether the teacher’s discrimination claims are barred by the First Amendment. Facts of

NJ Supreme Court Strikes Down Medicaid Expansion Regulation

In G.C. v. Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services (A-35/36/37-20) (084417) (Decided November 18, 2021), the Supreme Court struck down N.J.A.C. 10:72-4.4(d)(1) as inconsistent with its state enabling legislation and contrary to legislative intent. The court also expressed grave concerns that the regulation’s method of operation is also inconsistent

NJ Supreme Court to Decide Constitutionality of Jersey City Payroll Tax

The Supreme Court of New Jersey has agreed to determine whether Jersey City’s 1% payroll tax is constitutional. Earlier this year, the Appellate Division held in Mack-Cali Realty Corp. v. State of New Jersey that the ordinance was unconstitutional, concluding that it ran afoul of the Commerce Clause. Facts of

New Jersey Supreme Court Sides With Attorney in Facebook Ethics Case

In the Matter of John J. Robertelli (D-126-19/084373) (Decided September 21, 2021), the Supreme Court of New Jersey dismissed ethics charges against an attorney who allegedly used his paralegal to contact an opposing party via Facebook. While attorneys can no longer plead ignorance regarding social media, the court held that

NJ Supreme Court Punitive Damages against a Public Entity

In Pritchett v. State (A-5-20/084451) (Decided August 12, 2021), the Supreme Court of New Jersey held that trial courts reviewing a punitive damages award issued by a jury against a public entity defendant must apply heightened scrutiny. Facts of Pritchett v. State Plaintiff Shelly Pritchett worked for the Juvenile Justice

Education Law Update – Gov. Murphy Signs Several Bills into Law

Education Law Update – Gov. Murphy Signs Several Bills into Law

Gov. Phil Murphy took action on several education bills in recent weeks… Gov. Phil Murphy took action on several education bills in recent weeks. The legislation signed into law addresses issues ranging from school nurse shortages to school bus driver safety. Gov. Murphy also issued conditional vetoes on some closely-watched