Fifth Circuit Applies Supreme Court's 'Miscarriage of Justice' Standard for Appeal Waivers

The 5th Circuit Court of Appeals issued a ruling on August 5, 2026, applying the Supreme Court's recent 'miscarriage of justice' standard for appeal and collateral attack waivers in plea agreements. Despite the new standard, the Circuit Court again ruled against the defendant, finding that a court order for involuntary medication had a nexus to government interests in health and reducing re-offending.