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United States v. John Doe, Inc. I

United States Supreme Court
481 U.S. 102 (1987)

Written by Sharon Feldman, JD

Facts

The Antitrust Division of the Department of Justice (AD) conducted a grand jury investigation and concluded that criminal prosecution for antitrust violations was unwarranted. The grand jury was discharged. AD attorneys decided there were False Claims Act violations but wanted to consult with the Civil Division (CD) and the United States Attorney’s Office (U.S. attorney), where the civil action would be brought. The AD sought an order permitting disclosure of grand jury material to CD attorneys and the U.S. attorney. The court found that the government’s interest in coordinating fair and efficient enforcement of the False Claims Act and obtaining expert consultation was a particularized need for disclosure. The court of appeals reversed because the information could have been obtained through civil discovery. The Supreme Court granted certiorari.

Rule of Law

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Issue

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Holding and Reasoning (Stevens. J.)

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A "yes" or "no" answer to the question framed in the issue section;
A summary of the majority or plurality opinion, using the CREAC method; and
The procedural disposition (e.g., reversed and remanded, affirmed, etc.).

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