In Nevada, the defense of the doctrine of unclean hands “derives from the equitable maxim that ‘he who comes into equity must come with clean hands.’ ” Omega Industries, Inc. v. Raffaele, 894 F.Supp. 1425, 1431 (D.Nev.1995) (quoting Ellenburg v. Brockway, Inc., 763 F.2d 1091, 1097 (9th Cir. 1985)). The doctrine bars relief to a party who has engaged in improper conduct in the matter in which that party is seeking relief. As such, the alleged inequitable conduct relied upon must be connected with the matter in litigation, otherwise the doctrine is not available as a defense. Gravelle v. Burchett, 73 Nev. 333, 342, 319 P.2d 140, 145 (1957). Truck Ins. Exchange v. Palmer J. Swanson, Inc., 124 Nev. 59 (Nev. 2008); Locken v. Locken, 98 Nev. 369, 650 P.2d 803 (1982).
Hon. Jay Young (Ret.) is a retired judicial officer with decades of experience presiding over complex civil litigation matters. Following a distinguished career on the bench, Judge Young now serves as a mediator, arbitrator, and court‑appointed special master, and discovery referee. Judge Young brings a disciplined, impartial, and results‑oriented approach to dispute resolution. Judge Young is based in Nevada and accepts appointments statewide and nationally, subject to agreement or court order. He can be reached at 855.777.4557 or info@armadr.com
Known for judicial temperament, analytical rigor, and practical problem‑solving, Judge Young assists litigants and counsel in resolving high‑stakes disputes efficiently and with integrity and employing best practices. He is recognized by U.S. News and World Report’s publication Best Lawyers as Arbitration Lawyer of the Year.