Munson P. Hunter, III v. United States

Hunter challenged a medication condition despite an appeal waiver (a promise not to appeal). The Court ruled that a waiver is unenforceable when enforcement would cause a miscarriage of justice.

Federal defendants who accept plea agreements with appeal waivers are affected. They may challenge sentences when enforcement creates a miscarriage of justice (an obvious, extreme sentencing error). For example, Hunter may challenge a condition requiring prescribed mental-health medication. The Fifth Circuit must decide whether Hunter’s medication condition meets that demanding standard. Ordinary errors in sentencing calculations or sentencing factors generally will not defeat a valid waiver.

Not official Court text.