Author:   Kirk Eichler <kirk@chromatic-com> at ~Internet
Date:     3/13/ 0  10:37 AM
Priority: Normal
BCC:      citation at AO-OCPPO
TO:       citation@ao.uscourts.gov at -Internet
Subject:  Court opinions belong in the public domain

To whom it may concern (hopefully, you!),

     The Minneapolis Star Tribune has revealed the American 
judiciary's corruption in the matter of court documents. The courts 
cozy relationship with West Publishing is every bit as shameful and 
disturbing as our parties problems with 'soft' money.  Apparently, 
all branches of our government have their hand out and are willing to 
transact our nation's business with personal gain in mind.

     The notion that Supreme Court justices receive "thousands of 
dollars, free trips, VIP passes to professional golf tournaments, 
limo rides, favors for relatives and friends" (Margie Wylie, 
http://www. news.com/Perspectives/perspectives.html) is repugnant to 
me.

     Not only should court documents be available, free or at minimal 
cost, but West Publishing should be blocked from selling their 
business. They have profited far too long for all the wrong reasons 
and have no right to a final golden handshake.

                                   Yours sincerely,

     Kirk Eichler                  (kirk@chromatic.com)
     San Francisco, CA
     The usual disclaimers about personal opinions apply.