May 6, 2012

If all goes as expected, oral arguments will be heard in the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals by the end of May or first week of June for two lawsuits, Shepard vs Madigan and Moore vs Madigan. Both lawsuits challenge the Illinois ban on carrying firearms for self-defense.

The state's request for more time to prepare has been denied, with only a one week extension granted. It seems the court is interested in hearing this case a soon as possible and does not want any unnecessary delays.

From Chief Judge Frank Easterbrook: "Order re: Motions to consolidate and extend time. The motions to consolidate are DENIED. Appellees do not need a formal order of consolidation in order to file one brief addressing two appeals. They may file one brief, or two, at their option. The motions for an extension of time is GRANTED, but only until May 9, 2012 (in both appeals). This should allow enough time to prepare a single brief covering the two cases. Appellees previously told the court that the two suits are functionally identical. There is accordingly no need for time beyond the 30-day extension already granted, and this one-week increment. The court’s last regular sitting of the current term is June 8, 2012. If the court were to delay the appellees’ briefs until June 1 or June 11 (the alternate dates appellees propose), that would postpone oral argument until next September, an unnecessary delay. Appellees must file their brief (or briefs) in both cases by May 9, and appellants their reply briefs by May 23. That will permit oral argument the last week of May or the first full week of June."

This could mean a ruling from the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals being issued as soon as early August.

Judge Denies IL Attorney General's Request for More Time in Right to Carry Lawsuit -