Helstoski v. Meanor, United States District Judge

Summary

The Court, in an opinion delivered by Chief Justice Burger, affirmed the Third Circuit’s denial of a writ of mandamus and held that a Member of Congress may not obtain mandamus relief to challenge an indictment on Speech or Debate Clause grounds because direct appeal to the Court of Appeals is the proper avenue. Justice Brennan dissented, arguing that the extraordinary remedy of mandamus is appropriate to protect the Clause and that the time‑bar on direct appeal should not preclude relief.