⚖ Oral Arguments, with Context

The Ninth Circuit hears a prisoner's civil-rights case arising from a search in a Nevada prison gym. Edward Edgerton was using a kiosk to download music when correctional officer Alexander Hillard ordered him to stop. Edgerton says he then complied with the order to stand for a search, but Hillard repeatedly kicked his feet and ankles. Hillard disputes that account and says the force was justified by noncompliance. Edgerton, who is Black, also alleges racial discrimination. The district court denied summary judgment, a request to end the case without a trial, because material facts were disputed. It also refused qualified immunity. Qualified immunity can protect officials from civil damages unless they violated a clearly established federal right. Hillard now challenges that pretrial ruling. The dispute includes whether this appeal raises a reviewable legal question or instead asks the judges to revisit disputed facts. Chris Davis will represent Hillard.

Edgerton v. Hillard, et al. (No. 25-4851) — U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, argued October 29, 2026.