Supreme Court to consider expanding jury trial access for prisoners claiming abuse

The U.S. Supreme Court will hear a case that may allow prisoners greater access to jury trials. Currently, the Prison Litigation Reform Act requires prisoners to exhaust internal grievance processes before suing, which can hinder legitimate claims of abuse. The case involves Kyle Brandon Richards, who alleges sexual abuse by a prison official and claims his grievances were destroyed. A lower court dismissed his lawsuit, but an appeals court ruled that factual disputes should be decided by a jury. If the Supreme Court rules in favor of Richards, it could change how courts handle prisoner lawsuits. Critics argue the current law limits legitimate claims, while supporters of the law warn it may lead to an increase in frivolous lawsuits.