Boone v. Lightner (1943)

1) Link to the Actual Opinion
Read the U.S. Reports opinion (PDF)

2) Summary of the Opinion
A North Carolina servicemember, Boone, asked for a stay in a civil case under the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Act (SSCRA). The trial court denied the stay, and Boone was held liable. The Supreme Court upheld the decision, holding that granting a stay under the Act was within the trial court’s discretion — not an automatic right.

3) Why It Mattered
This was the Supreme Court’s first major interpretation of the SSCRA. It clarified that the Act did not guarantee automatic stays, but gave servicemembers procedural protections subject to judicial discretion.

4) What It Provided or Took Away

• Provided: Recognition of servicemembers’ rights under the Act in civil litigation.
• Took Away: The idea that a stay of proceedings was absolute; courts could weigh fairness and circumstances.

5) Overreach or Proper Role?
The Court took a restrained approach, emphasizing balance between servicemember protections and judicial efficiency. Some critics argue it weakened the SSCRA’s intent.

6) Plain-English Impact Today
This case shaped how courts still handle SCRA requests: servicemembers get special consideration, but not always a guaranteed pause in litigation.

• Soldiers and Sailors Act
• Servicemembers Civil Relief Act
• Military Service
• Civil Procedure