Ex Parte Young Doctrine

Definition

A legal doctrine allowing lawsuits against state officials in their official capacity seeking prospective injunctive relief (a court order to stop ongoing violations of law), even when the state itself would be immune from suit. It does not allow suits for monetary damages from the state treasury.

Examples

• •The plaintiffs argued that Ex parte Young already allows injunctions against state entities in federal court, so a ruling in their favor would not dramatically expand available remedies.

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