[San Jacinto]

I understand that it is possible Churchill will not get his job back, will not get back pay and not collect attorney's fees. A verdict of nominal damages does not automatically qualify a "prevailing" civil rights plaintiff for such relief. But there will be a hearing on that and the outcome is currently uncertain.

The wise thing for the jury to do was to find this asshat was fired for his academic corruption and be done with it. Instead, the legal record now stands that he was illegally terminated in retaliation for protected speech. Since he thus lost his job, I assume it cost him some money. I hope he still gets zilched, but it's something to be concerned about.

[keepitreal]

I read this at the University of Denver Law blog, which has been covering the case. This is from a courtroom observer:

To the speculation about whether Judge Naves would order CU to rehire WC -- Kevin O'Brien and I discussed this after closing arguments. Judge Naves has been a careful,even cautious, and practical jurist in this case. He is a peacemaker. We don't think he will order CU to rehire WC as that would perpetuate turmoil. More likely to say "CU, pay the damages, and WC, move on." But remember, no matter who wins, this case is going to go on and on.

http://www.theracetothebottom.org/ward-churchill/churchill-v-university-of-colorado-a-prognostication.html#comments

At this point, I think the judge can only impose equitable relief (reinstatement), not monetary damages because that is in the jury's purview. From what I read, the jury awarded him $0 for past economic damage and $1 for the violation of his civil rights. I think the possible reinstatement is the only issue to be decided by Judge Naves. Admittedly, I haven't follwed this case closely, but I think this is it for old Ward.