Gotbaum v. Sugarman

Some of the most difficult problems which are presented for judicial resolution involve a head-on collision of two socially desirable but conflicting objectives. In this case such a problem is presented by the conflict between constitutional provisions for a merit system of civil service employment, and the desire to set up a humane and enlightened welfare and relief system to provide employment for recipients.

This is an article 78 proceeding, in which petitioners, a union official, civil service employees, and persons on civil service •eligibility lists sue to enjoin the implementation of…