Goodman v. The City of New York

Background

Jason Goodman filed the action representing himself and alleged violations of his First Amendment rights under federal and state laws. The court had previously adopted a magistrate judge’s recommendation that the defendants’ motions to dismiss be granted and the case dismissed. The court later denied Goodman’s motion seeking reconsideration and relief from the judgment.

Contempt Motion

On August 26, 2025, Goodman moved to hold non-party David G. Sweigert in contempt and sought related relief, based on a purported two-page outside-party brief that Mr. Sweigert filed. Goodman argued that the filing violated a magistrate judge’s order disallowing such filings. A magistrate judge initially denied the motion because it did not comply with that judge’s individual motion rules.

Because the motion was directed to Judge Clarke and complied with her motion rules, Judge Clarke vacated the earlier order and considered the motion herself.

Court’s Reasoning and Ruling

The court explained that courts have inherent authority to punish contempt, but must exercise that authority cautiously and with restraint. It determined that the alleged contempt did not warrant sanctions. The court relied on the minor nature of filing the two-page brief, as well as the fact that the person alleged to be in contempt was not a party to the case, which was already closed and on appeal.

Judge Clarke denied Goodman’s motion. The court directed the clerk to vacate the earlier order, enter the order denying the contempt motion, and serve a copy on Goodman. The case remains closed.