Federal Judge To Hold Trial Before Deciding Lawsuit Challenging Michigan's Gay Marriage Ban

[Purveyor]

Source: Associated Press

DETROIT — A federal judge stunned the courtroom Wednesday by saying he'll hold a trial before deciding whether to overturn Michigan's ban on same-sex marriage.

U.S. District Judge Bernard Friedman said he won't make a decision without hearing testimony from experts on whether there's a legitimate state interest in banning gay marriage. He scheduled a trial for Feb. 25.

"I wish I could give you a definitive ruling. ... There are fact issues that have to be decided," Friedman said.

Friedman clearly caught the lawyers off guard. They had agreed to have him decide the issue on arguments and briefs. There was a groan in a nearby room where dozens of people were watching a video feed.

Read more: http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/91d87d04a7c745639043c32b57fb59f3/US--Gay-Marriage-Michigan

[rug]

1. Reagan appointee.

[uppityperson]

2. ARGH!!! WHY the HELL is this even an issue? Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

Finalize it once and all, just do it.