Opinion ID: 585745
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: Denial of Request for Default Judgments

Text: 12 The plaintiffs contend the court erred by refusing to enter default judgments against the officers and the government. Because the court lacked personal jurisdiction over the officers, the request for a default judgment against them was properly denied. See Pacific Atl. Trading Co. v. M/V Main Express, 758 F.2d 1325 (9th Cir.1985). 13 As to the government, the plaintiffs failed to establish their claims against the government and thus they were not entitled to a judgment by default. Fed.R.Civ.P. 55(e) (No judgment by default shall be entered against the United States or an officer or agency thereof unless the claimant establishes a claim or right to relief by evidence satisfactory to the court.); cf. Giampaoli v. Califano, 628 F.2d 1190 (9th Cir.1980) (if a claimant presents a prima facie case, Rule 55(e) does not apply). 14