Subscribe for legal news in infographics!

Murphy v. Smith (Argument December 6, 2017)

MurphyvSmith

This case has been decided! Click here to view the decision.

Does the law require Murphy to contribute 25% of his monetary award to pay his attorney’s fees?

Murphy was a prisoner at the Vandalia Correctional Center in Illinois. One day, following a verbal dispute, the guards beat him badly and left him in a cell without medical attention.

He sued. The court awarded Murphy just over $300,000 and separately awarded Murphy’s attorney just over $100,000 in fees.

This case is about how much of Murphy’s attorney’s fees Murphy must pay (from his $300K award) before the prison guards chip in the rest.

More information

About the Author

Mariam Morshedi

Mariam Morshedi

Mariam Morshedi is the Founder and Executive Director of Subscript Law. Before starting Subscript Law, she practiced civil rights law for AARP Foundation, where she litigated housing, consumer and disability rights issues.

Share this Article

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on linkedin
Share on email

Share your Thoughts

Latest Articles

Interested in becoming a contributor?

We’re on the lookout for lawyers who share our passion for teaching legal issues. Write about the Supreme Court case or legal topic of your expertise. We’ll provide the infographic, and you’ll get the recognition.