Conroy v. Aniskoff (1993)

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

2) Summary of the Opinion
The case concerned the tolling of statutes of limitations under the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Act (SSCRA). The Supreme Court unanimously reaffirmed that the Act must be read liberally in favor of servicemembers, rejecting attempts to narrowly limit its scope.

3) Why It Mattered
The ruling reinforced decades of precedent that servicemember protections are not just technicalities but must be given their full protective effect.

4) What It Provided or Took Away

• Provided: Strong reaffirmation that courts must construe SCRA protections broadly.
• Took Away: Judicial attempts to restrict servicemembers’ rights through narrow readings.

5) Overreach or Proper Role?
The Court acted within its proper role, defending Congress’s protective intent for servicemembers.

6) Plain-English Impact Today
If you’re serving in the military, deadlines in lawsuits (like filing claims) pause during your service. Courts must apply that pause generously in your favor.

• Scra
• Servicemembers Civil Relief Act
• Military Rights
• Statutory Interpretation