---
title: "Maleng v. Cook"
citation: "490 U.S. 488 (1989)"
authority_id: "AUTH-SCOTUS-MALENG-490-US-488"
authority_type: "case"
jurisdiction: "federal_nationwide"
precedential_status: "binding"
official_url: "https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USREPORTS-490/pdf/USREPORTS-490-488.pdf"
url: "https://jason93.com/legal/federal-process/authorities/AUTH-SCOTUS-MALENG-490-US-488/"
legal_review: "2026-08-25"
links_checked: "2026-10-15"
links_available: 1
links_checked_count: 1
license: "CC BY 4.0"
---

# Maleng v. Cook

## Holding or rule used

Custody is assessed at filing; a fully expired conviction's collateral consequences alone are insufficient, with a distinct possible challenge to a current enhanced sentence.

## Material limitation

Use only for the bounded proposition in the linked modules. The actual custody, filing posture, respondent, district, circuit law, administrative record, continuing injury, merits, and relief remain separate where identified.

## Official source and pinpoints

490 U.S. 488 (1989), 490 U.S. 490–94: <https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USREPORTS-490/pdf/USREPORTS-490-488.pdf>


## Used in

- [28 U.S.C. § 2241 — Section 2255(e) Saving Clause, Custody, and Mootness](https://jason93.com/legal/federal-process/modules/60-post-conviction/2241-saving-clause-custody-and-mootness.md)
- [Extraordinary Writs — Coram Nobis, Audita Querela, and Mandamus](https://jason93.com/legal/federal-process/modules/60-post-conviction/extraordinary-writs-coram-nobis-audita-querela-and-mandamus.md)