Munson P. Hunter, III, Petitioner v. United States

The Supreme Court heard arguments in a federal criminal case about appeal waivers, which are plea-agreement terms that limit a defendant's right to challenge a conviction or sentence. The justices are considering whether such a waiver blocks all claims except ineffective assistance of counsel or a sentence above the statutory maximum, and whether a judge's later statement that the defendant can appeal changes that if the government does not object.

The case was argued on March 3, 2026, and no decision is available yet. The dispute focuses on whether an appeal waiver acts as an absolute bar, except for ineffective assistance claims or sentences above the statutory maximum, and whether a judge's later statement about appeal rights matters when the government stays silent.

The case could affect how much defendants can challenge their cases after pleading guilty. For example, it may decide whether a person who signed an appeal waiver can still appeal after a sentencing judge says an appeal is allowed.

The Court is deciding how far an appeal waiver reaches after a guilty plea. It is also considering whether a judge's later statement can undo that waiver.

Federal defendants who sign plea agreements could be directly affected. Prosecutors and trial judges may also need clearer rules about when appeals are still possible.

The Supreme Court will review the case and issue an opinion later this term. The expected window is late June or early July, unless the Court says otherwise.