The 10th Circuit Court of Appeals on Wednesday agreed to set aside a default judgment against a Native domestic violence group in Oklahoma.

The Oklahoma Native America Domestic Violence Coalition, also known as Spirits of Hope, was sued by a former employee for wrongful termination. A federal judge entered a default judgment against the group and Pauline Musgrove, its executive director.

The defendants said they weren't properly served with the lawsuit but the judge refused to set aside the judgment. On appeal, the 10th Circuit said the plaintiff in the case failed to comply with Oklahoma law regarding the service of a summons and complaint.

10th Circuit Decision:
Hukill v. Oklahoma Native American Domestic Violence Coalition (September 18, 2008)