Opinion ID: 518167
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Issues Raised First Time on Appeal

Text: 12 Pioneer argues that Mackey failed to raise before the district court issues involving construction of the Pioneer board's by-laws and whether the board could have dismissed Mackey at pleasure if he had not been hired by the board. The general rule is that an issue will not be considered for the first time on appeal unless a party shows exceptional circumstances why the issue was not raised below. Taylor v. Sentry Life Ins. Co., 729 F.2d 652, 655-56 (9th Cir.1984). 13 It is clear, however, that Mackey presented these issues to the district court in oral argument. Whether the National Bank Act is a defense to Mackey's contract and tort claims is an issue squarely before this court.