Rationally Based is a Supreme Court blog focused on the United States Supreme Court’s decisions, judicial philosophies, and their effects. We analyze landmark cases, legal trends, and the Court’s role in shaping law and society, keeping it clear and concise. Whether you’re a legal professional, law student, or just interested in the highest court, we provide insights into its impact on American jurisprudence. Explore our articles to stay informed on the Court’s decisions and their implications.
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Supreme Court Hears Case on Parental & Religious Rights on LGBTQ+ Content in Schools
On April 22, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments in, Mahmoud v. Taylor, a case involving Maryland parents seeking the right to opt their elementary-school-aged children out of instruction incorporating LGBTQ+ themes. The parents, representing diverse religious backgrounds, argued that the Montgomery County Public Schools’ refusal to allow opt-outs violates their First Amendment right to freely exercise their religion. Over nearly two-and-a-half hours, a majority of justices appeared sympathetic to the parents’ position, questioning the school board’s rationale and the potential harm of granting opt-out accommodations.
Supreme Court to Hear Arguments on Standards for Special Education Discrimination Cases
The Question before the Court: Do the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and Rehabilitation Act of 1973 require children with disabilities to satisfy a “bad faith or gross misjudgment” standard when seeking relief for discrimination relating to their education?
Stereotyping at Work, Is it Discrimination?
Many employees encounter stereotyping in the workplace. It is essential for both employees and employers to recognize when playful jokes transition into discriminatory harassment to safeguard their rights.
Employment Discrimination: the Basics
In situations involving termination, demotion, performance improvement plans (PIPs), hostile work environments, or adverse management practices, it is crucial to recognize the potential for discrimination to influence an employer’s decisions, whether intentionally or inadvertently. Understanding the parameters of discrimination is essential for those who feel they may be affected.
Reasonable Accommodations and the ADA
A reasonable accommodation is any adjustment to an employee's office space, duties, or schedule. Employers must provide reasonable accommodations to employees with a disability to assist them in performing their job duties. Common reasonable accommodations include a modified schedule, remote work, and access to resources such as a standing desk or speech-to-text technology.
Meet Ross J. Fodera, Esq.
Ross J. Fodera, Esq. is the founder of the Fodera Law Firm and specializes in small business legal services, including employment disputes, real estate transactions, corporate formation, contract disputes, and risk management. Since becoming an attorney Mr. Fodera has been involved in a number of six-figure settlement negotiations, EEOC proceedings, and real estate litigation. Mr. Fodera takes pride in providing affordable services and effectively communicating with clients so they understand every stage of their representation. Mr. Fodera is barred in the District of Columbia and Massachusetts.
In a significant policy shift, federal prosecutors in the District of Columbia have been directed to stop bringing felony charges against individuals solely for carrying rifles or shotguns. The new directive, confirmed by U.S. Attorney for D.C. Jeanine Pirro, stems from a Justice Department determination that the city's longstanding ban on the public carry of long guns is unconstitutional in light of recent Supreme Court precedent.