United States v. Newman and Chiasson,et al.

Brief of National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the New York Council of Defense Lawyers as Amici Curiae Opposing the Petition of the United States for Rehearing or Rehearing En Banc.

Brief filed: 02/25/2015

Documents

United States v. Newman and Chiasson,et al.

2nd Circuit Court of Appeals; Case No. 13-1837-cr(L), 13-1917-cr(CON)

Prior Decision

Opposing petition for rehearing or rehearing en banc of decision in 773 F.3d 438 (2d Cir. 2014).

Argument(s)

The panel’s definition of “personal benefit” represents a faithful application of Dirks and a welcome clarification of the law in this Circuit. The panel correctly applied Dirks. The panel properly clarified the applicable standard for personal benefit. A loose standard for personal benefit would raise serious issues under due process and separation of power principles.

Author(s)

Ira M. Feinberg, Benjamin A. Fleming, Hogan Lovells US LLP, New York, NY; Richard D. Willstatter, White Plains, NY.