National Football League Management Council v. Superior Court

This petition challenges a trial court ruling requiring the Oakland Raiders (who have since become the Los Angeles Raiders) to turn over medical reports prepared by a team doctor during his examination and treatment of former Raiders football player Leanell Jones, real party in interest in this proceeding. Petitioners contend that the trial court lacked jurisdiction to require production because federal law preempts state law in the area. We have concluded that federal law does not preempt Evidence Code section 1158 rights. Therefore, we deny the petition for a peremptory writ.

In June of 1979, Leanell Jones was signed by the Raiders. During the preseason, he sustained an injury and became disabled from playing football. Donald M. Fink, M.D., was hired by the Raiders to examine and treat Mr. Jones. In August of 1979, the Raiders terminated Mr. Jones’ contract to play football. Thereafter, he filed an “injury grievance” against the Raiders pursuant to the collective bargaining agreement between the National Football League Players Association and petitioner National Football League Management Council (Management Council).

In May of 1982, Mr. Jones signed an…