Not sure that is still true, but at one time they used to say UT Southwestern had more Noble Laurates than any other university and also name all the other prestigious science awards too. 

2) Would this work differently at the federal level vs. would the state tax authority likely recognize the MSA and award him the state deduction 3) What legal action could he reasonably take to contest my claiming the deduction, especially if it were to be granted by the IRS and/or the state tax authority?

If the OP means the judgment awarded to the foreclosing entity as a result of foreclosure, that judgment is against the borrower to proceed to foreclosure sale.

Judge says "You are awarded $x).

After you pick someone else, give him a courtesy call to explain why you did not award him the job.

I have a judgement award of $34,900.

The penalties are very stiff, a friend of mine was taken to court and his tenant was awarded a few thousand dollars.  

Were you awarded a judgement along with possession?

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