Federal Judge Blocks Louisiana Law, Allowing Calvin Duncan to Assume Clerk Position
A federal judge has issued a temporary restraining order against a new Louisiana law that would have eliminated the Orleans Parish criminal clerk of court office. This decision allows Calvin Duncan, who was elected as the clerk, to take office as planned. U.S. District Court Judge John deGravelles ruled that Senate Bill 256, signed into law by Governor Jeff Landry, is unconstitutional. The law aimed to merge the criminal clerk’s responsibilities with the civil clerk’s office, a move purportedly intended to streamline court operations. However, Duncan, an attorney and exoneree, argued that the law was designed to prevent him from assuming office, violating his constitutional rights. Duncan was elected with 68% of the vote in November. The restraining order will remain in effect for 14 days, during which time Duncan will be able to serve in his elected position. 
