The Third Circuit announced today that the James A. Byrne Courthouse in Philadelphia, where the Third Circuit, usually sits, will be closed until Monday, March 30, when it is scheduled to reopen. This is being done to protect the public, since two attorneys who appeared in court in the past two weeks in the courthouse, which also serves the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, “are currently displaying symptoms consistent with COVID-19.” The Third Circuit Clerk’s Office will be operating remotely and will continue to process electronic...

Chartis Property Casualty Co. v. Inganamort, ___ F.3d ___ (3d Cir. 2020). Yesterday, the Third Circuit issued its first published opinion in nearly two weeks. The ruling, authored by Judge Jordan, involved the question of whether defendants were entitled to coverage under their all-risk insurance policy with plaintiff when defendants’ 65-foot fishing vessel sank “enough to sustain serious damage.” The plaintiff insurer filed a declaratory judgment action seeking a ruling that there was no coverage. On cross-motions for summary judgment, the District Court ruled for the...

The Third Circuit announced today that it “is open for business and will fulfill its constitutional and statutory obligations and responsibilities.” Oral arguments will continue as scheduled, but merits panels “will determine the manner of argument.” Parties may file a motion requesting to appear by audio conference.” The “majority” of Clerk’s Office personnel will be working remotely. Parties who need to file motions seeking emergent relief should call 267-299-4904, leave a detailed message, and await a return call. Some of the usual...