Galactica 2019

A party sought to appeal a ruling in a forfeiture action about the M/V Galactica Star (distinct from the Battlestar Galactica, right); the Fifth Circuit dismissed for lack of jurisdiction: “Although a “Final Judgment” was signed and entered in district court, it did not reference Rule 54(b), did not include any language taken from the rule,and did not express the sentiments contained within the rule. The only document referenced in the judgment was the Government’s motion to strike, which did not mention Rule 54(b), the language of the rule, partial finality, or immediate appealability.” United States v. The MV Galactica Star, No. 18-20781 (Oct. 1, 2019). Cf. Lehmann v. Har-Con Corp., 39 S.W.3d 191 (Tex. 2001) (“[W]hen there has not been a conventional trial on the merits, an order or judgment is not final for purposes of appeal unless it actually disposes of every pending claim and party or unless it clearly and unequivocally states that it finally disposes of all claims and all parties.” (emphasis added)).