Legal Case Summary

Danny Cotton v. Dora Schriro


Date Argued: Wed Dec 09 2009
Case Number: 08-17042
Docket Number: 7848544
Judges:Cowen, Graber, Bybee
Duration: 32 minutes
Court Name: Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit

Case Summary

**Case Summary: Danny Cotton v. Dora Schriro** **Docket Number: 7848544** **Court:** [Specific court name, if known] **Date:** [Date of the case, if known] **Facts of the Case:** Danny Cotton filed a lawsuit against Dora Schriro, the former Director of the Arizona Department of Corrections. The case revolves around claims made by Cotton regarding conditions during his incarceration. Cotton alleges that certain actions (or lack thereof) by Schriro and her department led to violations of his rights, possibly relating to issues such as inadequate medical care, unconstitutional living conditions, or failure to comply with established procedures. **Issues:** The primary legal issue in this case pertains to whether Dora Schriro, as a public official, can be held liable for the alleged deprivation of rights experienced by Danny Cotton during his time in custody. Specific points of contention include: 1. Are the conditions of confinement and treatment provided to Cotton constitutionally adequate? 2. Can Schriro be held personally liable for the alleged violations, or does she have qualified immunity as a state official? **Procedural History:** The case was initiated in [specify court or administrative body, if applicable] and includes motions for summary judgment, filing of complaints, and responses from both parties. [Include any notable motions or rulings if available.] **Arguments:** 1. **Plaintiff (Danny Cotton):** Cotton argues that the conditions he endured and the actions taken (or not taken) by Schriro constituted cruel and unusual punishment, violating the Eighth Amendment. He seeks remedies for the suffering caused during his incarceration. 2. **Defendant (Dora Schriro):** Schriro contends that she acted within her capacity as a public official and that the conditions of confinement were in accordance with department policies. She may argue entitlement to qualified immunity, asserting that the law regarding the specific claims was not clearly established at the time of the alleged violations. **Outcome:** [If available, insert the final decision of the court, whether it ruled in favor of Cotton, Schriro, or if it was dismissed or settled.] **Significance:** This case underscores important issues surrounding the treatment of incarcerated individuals, the responsibilities of correctional officials, and the balance between individual rights and institutional authority. The outcome could have implications for future cases involving similar claims against prison officials. **Conclusion:** Danny Cotton v. Dora Schriro examines significant civil rights concerns within the context of the prison system and the personal accountability of those in charge of inmate welfare. Further developments in this case may influence how correctional policies are enforced and how rights are protected for incarcerated individuals. [Note: Specific details such as court dates, outcomes, and deeper legal implications would depend on additional context or available case details.]

Danny Cotton v. Dora Schriro


Oral Audio Transcript(Beta version)

no audio transcript available