Spencer Fane attorneys Matthew Daly and Martin Hyman recently achieved a significant appellate victory in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, affirming a prior court decision holding that their client’s congressional testimony and related communications are protected by legislative privilege and other constitutional safeguards.
The case, Chishti v. Spottiswoode, arose from Ms. Tatiana Spottiswoode’s testimony before the U.S. House Judiciary Committee regarding issues related to workplace sexual harassment and forced arbitration. Her testimony contributed to a broader national conversation surrounding then-pending legislation, resulting in the Ending Forced Arbitration of Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Act, which was signed into law in 2022.
Following the appeal argued by Matt, the court unanimously upheld the dismissal of a multicount lawsuit against our client alleging defamation, tortious interference, breach of contract, and other claims. In affirming this decision, the D.C. Circuit rejected attempts to impose civil liability based on witness testimony and addressed important questions concerning the public’s ability to provide information to legislative bodies without fear of reprisal through subsequent civil litigation.
By preserving their client’s hard-earned win, Matt and Marty demonstrated the thoughtful, fierce advocacy for which the Spencer Fane Litigation and Dispute Resolution practice group is known. With attorneys recognized at both the state and national level, the team’s strategic and results-driven counsel protects clients’ interests through every phase of litigation, from trial court proceedings to precedent-setting appeals.
Learn more about the firm’s Litigation and Dispute Resolution services here.