Minnesota HF3503 limits judicial and quasi-judicial immunity defenses by requiring clear and convincing evidence of bad faith or actual malice.

Minnesota HF3503 amends the Code of Judicial Conduct to limit the common law defenses of judicial and quasi-judicial immunity. It specifies that good faith and lack of malice are presumed for defendants raising such defenses, unless the plaintiff proves by clear and convincing evidence that the defendant acted with bad faith or actual malice. The bill defines "actual malice" as an act done with ill will, spite, or improper intent to cause undue harm, and "bad faith" as a conscious decision to mislead or deceive. This amendment applies to causes of action arising on or after August 1, 2026.

Minnesota HF3503 limits judicial and quasi-judicial immunity defenses by requiring clear and convincing evidence of bad faith or actual malice.

Minnesota HF3503 amends the Code of Judicial Conduct to limit the common law defenses of judicial and quasi-judicial immunity. It specifies that good faith and lack of malice are presumed for defendants raising such defenses, unless the plaintiff proves by clear and convincing evidence that the defendant acted with bad faith or actual malice. The bill defines "actual malice" as an act done with ill will, spite, or improper intent to cause undue harm, and "bad faith" as a conscious decision to mislead or deceive. This amendment applies to causes of action arising on or after August 1, 2026.