Court of Appeals favors CU in Churchill case

Previous verdict upheld; former professor still has legal options

The Colorado Court of Appeals last week upheld a previous verdict in favor of the University of Colorado, affirming that the institution was within its rights in terminating former professor Ward Churchill from his job.

The case is not necessarily closed, because Churchill has legal options. He could file a petition – which would be due next week – for rehearing in the Court of Appeals, or could file a petition with the Colorado Supreme Court by early next month. He also could choose not to pursue further action.

The Court of Appeals heard oral arguments in Churchill's lawsuit against the university on Oct. 20. His appeal began after District Judge Larry Naves denied Churchill's request to be reinstated at the university.