Judge Carnes of the Eleventh Circuit just published a pretty interesting decision on whether a district court can dismiss a civil case with prejudice because the plaintiff had filed his complaint and litigated the case up to trial using a false name. Here’s the opening paragraph:
If, as the Bible says, “[a]n honest answer is like a kiss on the lips,” Proverbs 24:26 (N.I.V.), a pleading founded on a lie is like a kick in the gut. The question this appeal presents is whether a district court can dismiss a case with prejudice because the plaintiff filed and litigated his complaint under a false name.
The Eleventh Circuit’s answer: Yes, it can. Thanks to Howard for the link.