I understand these judgements were awarded by juries, but these cases should never have gotten into court. First an attorney has to determine whether the case has merit and is worth persuing, then a judge has to convene a hearing and determine the cases' severity/frivolity. Why do they even get to court let alone win a judgement?
In the Boy Scout case, it's clear and obvious to me that the little wuss would never have joined the Scouts anyways. Why does the anti-religious mother have to ruin things for those who would like some faith and structure instilled into their sons' lives? She is showing intolerence and bigotry towards the Scouts and religion. She can show no damages suffered by herself or her son, and therefore this case should go no further. Much like the SCOTUS said to Michael Newdow about the Inauguration, "if you don't like it, don't go. Then you won't be harmed by the religiousity of the occasion." This woman is engaging in 'hate speech' and should not be bothered with.
It's been my experience that sometimes the Boy Scouts is just what kids like this need.
BTW, no mention of dad. I wonder where he is in all of this.