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Unique Chapter In American Jurisprudence: Exploring Unconventional Legal Cases

John Dos Passos

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Published in Policing American Indians: A Unique Chapter In American Jurisprudence

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The American legal system is renowned worldwide for its rich history and sound jurisprudence. Over the years, countless cases have shaped the legal landscape and set important precedents. While many of these cases involve common legal issues, there also exists a fascinating realm of unconventional legal battles that have left an indelible mark on American jurisprudence.

1. The Monkey Selfie Case:

One of the most quirky and talked-about legal battles in recent years is the infamous "Monkey Selfie" case. It all started in 2011 when a British wildlife photographer named David Slater traveled to Indonesia to document the lives of macaque monkeys. While trying to capture close-ups, Slater left his camera unattended, and a curious macaque named Naruto managed to take a selfie using the camera's shutter release button.

Policing American Indians: A Unique Chapter in American Jurisprudence

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The photograph, which quickly went viral, caused a legal conundrum. Can copyright be claimed for a photograph taken by a non-human animal? Slater believed he should own the copyright, arguing that he had set up the equipment and framed the shot. On the other hand, animal rights activists disputed this perspective, claiming that Naruto should own the copyright due to being the actual subject of the photograph.

The case made its way to the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. In 2018, a settlement was reached in which Slater agreed to donate 25% of his future earnings from the photograph to organizations that protect macaque habitats. While it may seem absurd at first, the Monkey Selfie case highlighted the intersection of emerging technologies, animal rights, and copyright law.

2. The McDonald's Hot Coffee Case:

Another unforgettable case that captured public attention and became the source of countless jokes and memes is the McDonald's Hot Coffee Case. In 1992, Stella Liebeck, a 79-year-old woman, spilled a cup of McDonald's coffee onto her lap, resulting in severe burns. Liebeck sued McDonald's, claiming that the company had served coffee that was unreasonably hot and did not provide adequate warnings.

Initially, many dismissed the case as an example of frivolous litigation, but as the details emerged during the trial, public opinion shifted. It was revealed that McDonald's had been repeatedly warned about the excessively hot temperature of its coffee and had even settled several previous burn-related claims. Moreover, Liebeck had suffered third-degree burns and undergone multiple surgeries as a result of the incident.

The case led to a deeper discussion about product liability, the responsibility of corporations, and the role of warning labels. While the jury awarded Liebeck $2.7 million in punitive damages, the amount was significantly reduced in later stages of the legal process. Nevertheless, the case stands as a reminder that even seemingly trivial legal battles can bring attention to systemic issues and lead to important changes in consumer safety standards.

3. The Santa Claus Arrest:

How would you feel if Santa Claus got arrested during a Christmas parade? In the small town of Keene, New Hampshire, an unusual incident occurred in 2003 when a man dressed as Santa Claus was detained by the police during the annual Christmas parade. The man, whose real name is Michael Manning, was charged with disorderly conduct for his alleged use of "vulgar language."

The case attracted national attention, with many questioning the arrest of a beloved holiday figure. Supporters rallied behind Manning, arguing that his arrest was a violation of his freedom of speech and expression during what was supposed to be a festive event. The incident raised interesting legal questions surrounding constitutional rights and the limits of public behavior.

Manning's case eventually reached the New Hampshire Supreme Court. In a unanimous decision, the court ruled in his favor, stating that his right to free speech had been violated. The Santa Claus arrest case serves as a reminder that even in seemingly lighthearted situations, the legal system plays a crucial role in upholding individual rights and liberties.

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American jurisprudence is filled with fascinating legal cases that have shaped the country's legal system. From the Monkey Selfie Case to the McDonald's Hot Coffee Case and the Santa Claus Arrest, these unconventional battles have brought attention to a diverse range of issues. They remind us that the law is constantly evolving and adapting to new situations, making American jurisprudence an intriguing and ever-evolving field.