United States v. Lee

The federal government took possession of property in Arlington, Virginia after the estate of Robert E. Lee's wife allegedly failed to pay a small tax assessment, refusing an offer to pay from anyone but the actual owner. Robert E. Lee's son (plaintiff), claiming title under a will, sued two federal officers (defendants) in charge of the property for ejectment; although the United States was not formally a party, the Attorney General moved to dismiss on sovereign-immunity grounds, and the district court denied the motion, with a jury ruling for the plaintiff.