This educational guide is based on the linked primary sources. It is not a Court publication, is not affiliated with the Court, and is not legal advice.
In brief
Overview
Background and question before the Court
Thomas C. Goldstein represented the petitioner.
According to Thomas C. Goldstein, the district court confirmed a class‑action settlement that substantially reduced the petitioner's individual pension, and the Fourth Circuit held that the petitioner may not appeal the district court's decision.
What each side argues
Petitioner (Robert J. Devlin)
According to Thomas C. Goldstein, the petitioner argues that, as a Rule 23 class member bound by the district court’s judgment, he has the right to appeal that judgment.
Respondents (Robert A. Scardelletti)
The respondents contend that only parties to a lawsuit, or those who properly become parties, may appeal an adverse judgment.
The respondents argue that in multiparty litigation the courts require consolidation, allowing only one appellant’s brief and requiring the parties to act together.
According to United States (Solicitor General), the United States, represented by the Solicitor General, filed an amicus brief supporting the respondents.
What happened at oral argument
Justice Souter asked: “Under your theory, any objector can appeal, I take it?”
Justice Kennedy asked: “Will your rule hold for certiorari petitions as well, so if, let's say, a named class member takes an appeal, but then the class petitions for certiorari, that any non‑named class member can petition for certiorari?”
A Justice asked: “You disagree with anything the government said in its brief about the objector has a right to intervene, he can do so even after judgment within the time allowed?”
What the Court decided
Why it matters
Terms to know
No glossary terms are available for this guide.
Primary sources
Read the source materials on the official site or open the immutable repository copy used for this guide.
- ee6aba71e469a1257e0b-r1-99c3eb53aa2fe3d8.pdforal argument transcript
Guide generated September 19, 2026. Automated validation accepted this version.