[supercat]

The former US Supreme Court clerk on Abrams' show just pointed out that Greer never explained why he deemed one medical opinion more credible than the other, thereby insulating himself upon appellate review. That has got to be one of the biggest reasons why Congress enacted a law mandating trial de novo.

One thing few people understand is that the appeals court system is predicated upon the honesty of trial court judges. It is very easy for a dishonest trial court judge to render "findings of fact" which are immune to appeallate review even though they bear no relation whatsoever to reality.

[Kryptonite]

Yes. I've been fortunate to develop an intimate understanding of how appellate courts work. Far too many people do not, nor will they ever.

Congress is presumed by rule of law to have acted in a Constitutional manner. The fact that Greer didn't explain his credibility rulings is absolutely a legitimate reason to act as they did.

[PistolPaknMama]

One thing few people understand is that the appeals court system is predicated upon the honesty of trial court judges

Exactly, and why Congress ordered a new review of the facts, only the courts failed again.