America’s Top 9 Worst Judicial Hellholes®

Blog

Left unchecked, these jurisdictions will continue dragging down economic growth and undermining justice through rampant lawsuit abuse.

ATRA Commends J&J’s Plan to Resolve Notorious Talc Lawsuits

Press Releases

Claimants Given Opportunity to Vote on Plan; Judge to Reconsider Scientific Validity of Plaintiffs’ Experts

The Lab Whose Junk Science Is Fueling a Frenzy of Litigation

In The News

Legitimate consumer protection demands sound science and impartial analysis — not distorted data designed to manufacture lawsuits.

Lawsuit Advertising Frenzy Fuels Georgia’s Litigation Epidemic

Press Releases

Law Firms Spent $168M+ on 2.2M Ads in Georgia

Trial Lawyers’ Dual Grip on Pennsylvania Politics and Public Opinion Revealed in New ATRA Reports

Press Releases

ATRA’s Latest Studies Reveal Financial Influence and Lack of Transparency in Pennsylvania’s Campaign Finance Systems

Reports Reveal Influence of Trial Lawyers on New Jersey’s Legal Landscape

Press Releases

Two New Reports Analyze Legal Services Advertising Trends and Campaign Contributions

California Trial Lawyers’ Influence on Legal Landscape Exposed

Press Releases

Two New Reports Unveil Disturbing Trends in Legal Services Advertising and Plaintiffs’ Firms’ Political Contributions

New Reports Expose Trial Lawyers’ Grip on Nevada Politics and Legal Advertising Trends

Press Releases

In-depth analysis unveils trial lawyers’ staggering advertising and political spending, exposing tactics used to shape public opinion and legal outcomes.

Explosive New Reports Uncover Shocking Trends in Legal Advertising and Campaign Contributions in New York State

Press Releases

ATRA’s Latest Reports Reveal the Deep Ties Between Trial Lawyers and New York Politics

New Rule 702 Helps Judges Keep Bad Science Out Of Court

In The News

Judges’ commitment to rigorous policing of science is paramount in safeguarding the integrity of the legal system.

A Call to Halt the Onslaught of Litigation Tourism

In The News

This isn’t just about legal technicalities; it’s about New Yorkers’ livelihoods and ability to make ends meet.

Philadelphia’s Courts Continue to be ‘Judicial Hellholes’

In The News

Plaintiff-friendly courts tilt the scales of justice at will.

California Ranks No. 3 on Judicial Hellholes® List

Press Releases

Report Reveals Ongoing Crisis and Urgent Need for Reform

Kentucky Emerges on Judicial Hellholes® Watch List for the First Time

Press Releases

Evolution in Legal Landscape and Emerging Challenges Highlighted

Justice on Trial as St. Louis Ranks No. 8 in 2023-2024 Judicial Hellholes® Report, Urging Reform

Press Releases

St. Louis’ Legal Woes Exposed as Trial Lawyer Contributions Stall Reform

Louisiana Grapples with Judicial Hellholes® Distinction

Press Releases

From Coasts to Courts, State Struggles Under Weight of Judicial Hellholes® Title

Cook County, Illinois Rises to Second-Worst Judicial Hellhole® in Latest Report

Press Releases

Cook County Legal Woes Exposed: No-Injury Lawsuits, Excessive Verdicts, Business Struggles

Florida No Longer a Judicial Hellhole®, Named Point of Light in Annual Report

Press Releases

St. Louis’ Legal Woes Exposed as Trial Lawyer Contributions Stall Reform

Michigan Capital Debuts at No. 6 in Judicial Hellholes® 2023-2024 Report

Press Releases

Judicial Hellholes® Report Highlights Asbestos Litigation Challenges

South Carolina Grapples with No. 5 Spot in Judicial Hellholes® Ranking

Press Releases

Judicial Hellholes® Report Highlights Asbestos Litigation Challenges

New York City Grabs No. 4 Spot in 2023-2024 Judicial Hellholes® Report

Press Releases

Ongoing Legal Challenges Impacting Daily Lives Unveiled

Pennsylvania’s Legal Landscape Ranks Worst in National Judicial Hellholes® Report

Press Releases

From nuclear verdicts to litigation tourism, Keystone State grapples with myriad legal challenges

Georgia Grabs Unwanted Crown as America’s Top Judicial Hellhole®

Press Releases

Georgia’s Legal Landscape Negatively Impacts Businesses, Communities, Pocketbooks

Legal Hotspots Unveiled In 2023-2024 Judicial Hellholes® Report

Press Releases

Georgia and Pennsylvania Courts Top List, Litigation Tourism Burdens Judicial System

ATRA Calls for Veto of S.B. 410 to Protect Michigan’s Economic Future

Press Releases

This shift is not in the best interests of consumers, manufacturers, or the state as a whole

Why LA County’s Talc Litigation Misses the Mark

In The News

LA County’s talc litigation represents a colossal waste of taxpayer-funded time as public lawyers collaborate with private plaintiffs’ attorneys, employing outrageous tactics that, in all likelihood, will not succeed for most.

Michigan Legislature Looks to Expand Liability, ATRA Urges Caution

Press Releases

Michigan lawmakers must consider the unintended consequences of expanding liability

Mass Tort Machine Exposed by Trial Lawyer Playbook Report

Press Releases

The Trial Lawyer Playbook report serves as a call to action, promoting transparency, accountability, and fairness in the legal system.

Congressional Hearing on Bankruptcy to Address Mass Tort Litigation

Press Releases

ATRA Reiterates Support for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Use to Address Mass Tort Litigation, Urges Meaningful Dialogue Amid Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing

Climate Lawsuits Don’t Belong In State Courts

In The News

By maintaining the clear distinction between the judiciary and policymaking, the court can help us navigate this critical issue with prudence and responsibility, safeguarding a sustainable future for all.

House Oversight Hearing on Third-Party Litigation Financing Applauded by ATRA

Press Releases

The lack of oversight and transparency around third-party litigation funding threatens the integrity of our legal system

Georgia Legislature Needs to Address Lawsuit Abuses

In The News

Together, let’s forge a legal landscape that makes equitable access to justice a living reality for all Georgians.

Private Attorneys Hired by State Should Not Reap a Windfall at Taxpayers’ Expense

In The News

This is an opportunity to reassess the practices and regulations surrounding private-attorney contracting and to enact reforms that promote fairness, transparency and value for taxpayer dollars.

ATRA Applauds 4th Circuit’s Denial of En Banc Review in Bestwall Litigation

Press Releases

Allowing the company to continue the bankruptcy process will help ensure equitable and efficient resolution in complex mass tort claims

Key Court Verdicts Shaping Business and Law Deciphered

Blog

Are legal battles shaping business realities? Discover our take in the latest Tort Talk.

ATRA Urges 4th Circuit to Allow Bestwall LLC’s Bankruptcy Process for a Fair Resolution of Complex Asbestos Litigation

Press Releases

ATRA’s amicus brief highlights the importance of the bankruptcy process as a powerful tool to address mass tort litigation claims.

Efficiency in Justice: Why Bankruptcy is the Best Path Forward for Talc Claims

In The News

Resolution of these claims must unequivocally prioritize claimants’ best interests – lawyers’ financial interests must never take priority over the integrity and fundamental fairness of these proceedings.

State-Level Tort Reform in 2023: A Recap of Key Legislative Enactments

Blog

These state-level tort reform initiatives will be instrumental in creating a more balanced legal landscape going forward.

SCOTUS Decisions Decoded and the Latest Legal Updates

Blog

In this post, we delve into the Mallory v. Norfolk Southern Railway ruling, implications of Thompson v. Henderson, and the forthcoming release of a report on aspartame from IARC.

ATRA Urges Judge Kaplan to Prioritize Claimants’ Interests as Bankruptcy Proceedings Resume

Press Releases

LTL Management’s hearing on the plaintiffs’ motion to dismiss the bankruptcy proceedings begins June 27 and is scheduled to end June 30.

Time to close Philadelphia’s Mass Tort Complex and put an end to litigation tourism

In The News

Let us close the doors of the mass tort complex and open the doors to a fairer, more balanced future.

What happened to AG’s promise to use in-house counsel for large lawsuits?

In The News

It’s time to end the cycle of endless litigation and outrageous attorney fees

Montana AG Sues National Association of Attorneys General

Press Releases

As NAAG Continues to Focus on Entrepreneurial Litigation, It Could Face More Lawsuits

ATRA Calls on Governor Edwards to Sign SB 196, Promoting Accountability and Transparency in the Civil Justice System

Press Releases

“There is an urgent need in Louisiana for greater transparency in civil litigation,” ATRA President Tiger Joyce said.

More Work Remains on Tort Reform

In The News

This letter-to-the-editor was originally published by The Herald-Dispatch in Huntington, WV. West Virginia was a mainstay on the American Tort Reform Foundation’s “Judicial Hellholes®” list for nearly 20 years, finally […]

Fla.’s Legal Reform Package Makes It a Judicial Hellholes Point of Light

In The News

These strong but fair laws will solidify Florida as a model of a forward-looking state with a judicial system that is transparent, fair and accountable for all.

Lawmakers Denounced for Pushing Punitive Damages in Last-Minute Amendment

Press Releases

Illinois Businesses Brace for Increased Costs and Diminished Appeal as Trial Bar Pushes for Punitive Damages in Wrongful Death Cases

ATRA President Tiger Joyce on WFLA-FM Tallahassee

In The News

ATRA President Tiger Joyce discusses Florida’s 2023 legal reform successes with Preston Scott on WFLA-FM Tallahassee.

Florida Named Judicial Hellholes Point of Light, DeSantis’s Efforts Praised

Press Releases

2023 legislative session resulted in landmark legal reforms, ATRF says

New Florida Bill to Regulate Misleading Legal Services Ads on Pharmaceutical Drugs and Medical Devices

Press Releases

ATRA’s Latest Data Reveals $271.8 Million Spent on Legal Services Advertising in Florida in 2022; Florida Accounted for Nearly 20% of Radio Ad Spending Nationwide

New Bankruptcy Filing Will Resolve Claims, Not Provide a Windfall for Lawyers

Press Releases

Today, Johnson & Johnson announced it will resolve approximately 60,000 talc claims through the bankruptcy process, allowing claimants to get fair resolution without having to wait through a lengthy trial. […]

Florida Lawmakers Pass Landmark Legal Reform

Press Releases

HB 837 heads to Governor’s desk

Transparency in Tort Reform

In The News

This letter-to-the-editor was originally published by the Tampa Bay Times in response to their March 13, 2023 article “Florida lawmakers want to help insurance companies by limiting lawsuits.“ The “tort […]

The 3rd Circuit’s bankruptcy gift to the trial bar

In The News

Our civil justice system is intended to resolve issues among parties & provide clarity on the law. But in this situation, the 3rd Circuit failed to do either.

Florida Lawsuit Abuse Reform Prioritized by Governor and Legislative Leaders

Press Releases

American Tort Reform Association leads on advocating for transparency in damages in civil cases

A Time for Choosing at the National Association of Attorneys General

In The News

This op-ed was originally published by Real Clear Policy. There’s a growing chorus of criticism against the National Association of Attorneys General (NAAG) for the organization’s perceived political bias and […]

Lawyers Win Big From J&J Bankruptcy Decision

In The News

Over 40,000 claimants have been relegated to an overburdened and inefficient civil justice system.

ATRA Disappointed With IL Supreme Court BIPA Expansion

Press Releases

The American Tort Reform Association (ATRA) is disappointed in today’s decision out of the Illinois Supreme Court to expand the statute of limitations to five years for Biometric Information Privacy […]

Third Circuit Ruling Blocks Bankruptcy Proceedings for LTL Management

Press Releases

The American Tort Reform Association (ATRA) is disappointed to learn that the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit ruled against LTL Management, LLC in a case regarding the […]

Trial lawyers target agriculture products in ‘Judicial Hellholes’

In The News

This op-ed was originally published by Agri-Pulse. Mass tort litigation has become a multi-billion-dollar industry for trial lawyers over the past several decades as they’ve targeted everything from tobacco and […]

Florida’s Legislators Should Prioritize Transparency

In The News

This op-ed was originally published by InsideSources. After a much-anticipated election and a successful special session that took steps to address Florida’s property insurance crisis, the state’s new legislative leaders […]

Gov. DeSantis Signs Key Legal Reform Bill In Florida

Press Releases

SB 2-A to improve FL property insurance; addresses assignment of benefits, one way attorney fee shifting, third-party bad faith

ATRA Brief Calls on SCOTUS to Review Near Limitless Per Violation Civil Penalties

Press Releases

Arbitrary, excessive punishments result from lack of clarity under some laws

Frivolous ‘No-Injury’ Lawsuits Thrive in California

Press Releases

State ranked No. 3 among worst ‘Judicial Hellholes’ in nation with residents paying $1,900 per year in ‘tort tax’

Endless Coastal Litigation Creates Climate of Lawsuit Abuse in ‘Judicial Hellhole’ Louisiana

Press Releases

Residents pay ‘tort tax’ of more than $1,010 amid all-time high inflation

Cook County Lawsuits Fail to Claim Actual Injuries

Press Releases

In No. 5 worst ‘Judicial Hellhole,’ Chicago residents pay $2,094 each in annual tort tax

Florida Legislature on Judicial Hellholes Watch List

Press Releases

Lawmakers’ lack of action on legal reform to blame for inclusion

St. Louis ‘Judicial Hellhole’ Judges Permit ‘Junk’ Science Evidence, Known Haven for Trial Lawyers

Press Releases

Residents pay $1,463 annual ‘tort tax’ amid record-high inflation

South Carolina Asbestos Litigation Ranked ‘Judicial Hellhole’

Press Releases

Problematic case proceedings make the state’s asbestos docket one of the worst in the country

Lawsuit Lenders, Serial Plaintiffs Prey on Vulnerable New Yorkers and Small Businesses

Press Releases

Residents pay $1,875 ‘tort tax’ each year in fourth-worst Judicial Hellhole

PA Courts Encourage Blatant Venue Shopping, Remain Among Worst ‘Judicial Hellholes’

Press Releases

$1,200 ‘tort tax’ paid by Penn. residents annually

Nuclear Verdicts Explode in No. 1 Judicial Hellhole Georgia

Press Releases

Recording-breaking $1.7 billion verdict doled out while residents pay $1,111 annual “tort tax”

‘Nuclear’ Verdicts Obliterate State Economies in Judicial Hellholes

Press Releases

Americans pay a ‘tort tax’ of more than $1,300 each year

Monsanto’s triumph over junk science

In The News

Defense attorneys turn the tables by exposing massive conflicts of interest

The nation’s oldest attorney general organization is broken — here is how to fix it

In The News

This op-ed was originally published by the Washington Examiner. When the National Association of Attorneys General was founded in 1907, its goal was to support the top law enforcement officer […]

When Plaintiffs’ Attorneys Mislead the Public

In The News

Massive television ad buys and public relations campaigns that peddle misinformation taint public’s preconceptions, while judges fail to restrict falsehoods in their courtrooms.

$34M+ Spent on Lawyer Ads in Top California Media Markets So Far In 2022

Press Releases

New study shows Roundup, talc and paraquat top ad targets in Los Angeles, San Francisco and Sacramento

State AGs Call on National Org to Return Funds to States

Press Releases

The National Association of Attorneys General sits on $280M in assets

Third Circuit Can Uphold Reasonable Use of ‘Texas-Two-Step’ Law

In The News

This op-ed was originally published by Real Clear Policy. Historically, courts have respected the view that filing for bankruptcy is a well-recognized way for a business to respond when the […]

Flint civil trial shows consequences of lawsuit abuse

In The News

This op-ed was originally published by the Detroit News. In a surprising development for those who followed the case for the past seven months, the jury in the latest Flint […]

The $280 Million Attorneys General Fund

In The News

A group of state AGs shouldn’t be a litigation finance shop for the tort bar and progressive causes.

Tennessee’s opioid crisis requires legislative changes, not more lawsuits

In The News

State Attorney General Herbert Slatery shouldn’t be able to hire outside counsel to pursue his litigation against Walgreens without disclosing any of the contract details to the state’s taxpayers.

ATRA Files Amicus Brief in In re LTL Management, LLC

Press Releases

August 22, 2022 (WASHINGTON) – Today, the American Tort Reform Association joined the U.S. Chamber Litigation Center in filing an amicus brief in In re LTL Management, LLC before the U.S. Court of Appeals for […]

Show Me the Money: Hollywood Celebrity Revealed to be Funding Baseless Climate Lawsuits

Press Releases

August 16, 2022 (WASHINGTON) – According to a new investigative report published by Fox News, emails appear to show that actor Leonardo DiCaprio’s non-profit foundation, “awarded grants to a dark money group […]

ATRA Statement on Mistrial in Latest Flint Water Civil Trial

Press Releases

August 11, 2022 (WASHINGTON) – Today, a Federal Magistrate Judge in the U.S. Eastern District Court of Michigan declared a mistrial after a jury convened in good faith and could […]

AG Group Is Turning Civil Justice System Into a For-Profit Business

In The News

This op-ed was originally published by Inside Sources. A disturbing trend continues to infiltrate courtrooms across the country where third-party groups — including Wall Street hedge funds, institutional investors and private […]

Meritless Climate Change Cases, Driven by Plaintiffs’ Bar, Continue to Work Their Way through California Courts

In The News

Litigation is not a solution to address the broadest public policy challenges, and in the end, it is the lawyers who end up with a big payday while victims and communities in need of aid often are no nearer to resolution.

California Class-Action Lawyers Now Targeting Life Insurance Industry

In The News

This op-ed was originally published by the Times of San Diego. After a brief two-year hiatus, the “Golden State” once again reclaimed the top spot in the latest Judicial Hellholes list in December 2021. […]

Latest Flint Water Trial Unlikely to Result in Help for Victims

In The News

This op-ed was originally published by Inside Sources. After the multi-million-dollar Flint Water Settlement, lawyers have their sights set on new targets. A trial in an eastern Michigan federal court seeks […]

Baseless Legal Attacks Could Worsen US Energy Woes

Press Releases

Energy producers face legal attacks from multiple angles, according to a new report. The report, released today by the American Tort Reform Foundation (ATRF), revealed that state attorneys general and […]

Trial Lawyers Just Rewrote Centuries-old Contract Law

In The News

This op-ed was originally published by the Washington Examiner. Last month, an exclusive organization of judges, law professors, and lawyers called the American Law Institute spent a weekend in the nation’s […]

New Oklahoma Law to Address Transparency in Private Attorney Contracting

Press Releases

A bill addressing private attorney contracting was signed into law in Oklahoma on Friday. Governor Kevin Stitt (R) signed Senate Bill 984, which was sponsored by Senator Kim David (R) and Representative […]

Controversial Restatement Adopted by American Law Institute

Press Releases

ALI’s restatement of the law of ‘consumer contracts’ the latest in a surge of advocacy by the Institute

ALI Oversteps With Expansive Restatement Of Contract Law

In The News

This op-ed was originally published by Law360. Once considered a scholarly organization that was safely above the fray in broader policy disputes, the American Law Institute has become an advocacy group, […]

State Attorneys General Leave National Org Following ATRA Report

Press Releases

According to recent reports, three state attorneys general will leave the National Association of Attorneys General (NAAG). Ad Law Access reported this week that the Attorneys General of Missouri, Montana, […]

New ATRA Report: American Law Institute Pushes Advocacy Instead of Education

Press Releases

The American Tort Reform Association (ATRA) today released a report documenting how the American Law Institute (ALI) has evolved into a “stealth” legal advocacy organization that is promulgating views well […]

Maryland Attorney General Candidate Jim Shalleck Prioritizes Transparency

Press Releases

Maryland candidate for state attorney general, Jim Shalleck (R), pledged to prioritize transparency and open accountability in office, the American Tort Reform Association announced today. Shalleck, who most recently served […]

Idaho Attorney General Candidate Art Macomber Prioritizes Transparency

Press Releases

Idaho candidate for state attorney general, Arthur Macomber (R), pledged to prioritize transparency and open accountability in office, the American Tort Reform Association announced today. Macomber embraced good-government principles by […]

National Attorneys General Organization Has Turned Into a Factory for Shady Litigation

In The News

This op-ed was originally published by the Washington Examiner. The National Association of Attorneys General recently came under scrutiny for its funding sources. Outside of membership dues paid by state attorneys […]

Elected Officials — Not Lawyers Out for a Buck — Are Responsible for Fixing the Opioid Crisis

In The News

Floridians and all Americans want the scourge of opioids to be addressed. Responsibility for doing so lies with the people we elect to represent us, not with lawyers motivated by a potential payout.

Attorneys General Association Risks Member Loss Over Anti-Business Litigation

General, Press Releases

What once was an independent association of state attorneys general now runs the risk of losing crucial members and having a new reputation of being a financially motivated promoter of […]

Coalition Letter on H.R. 963, the “FAIR Act”

General, Press Releases

This Coalition letter was sent to the Members of the U.S. House of Representatives, opposing H.R. 963, the “FAIR Act.”

Liability-lawsuit Expansion Bill Helps No One Except Lawyers

In The News

This op-ed was originally published by the Orlando Sentinel. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle are following a developing national trend by creating new bases for litigation through private rights […]

ATRA Applauds Court’s Decision to Allow LTL’s Bankruptcy Process to Proceed

Press Releases

FEBRUARY 25, 2022 (WASHINGTON) – Today, Chief Judge Michael Kaplan, U.S. Bankruptcy Judge for the District of New Jersey, denied claimants motions to dismiss LTL’s bankruptcy proceedings. Statement from American […]

American Law Institute Risks Overstepping Boundaries with Proposed Restatements

Press Releases

Proposed restatements from the ALI are becoming increasingly controversial, ATRA President Tiger Joyce says.

Study: Trial Lawyers Spent More Than $126 Mil. on Colorado TV Ads Over Past 5 Years

Press Releases

From 2017 through 2021, trial lawyer groups flooded Colorado airwaves
with more 1.6 million TV ads

Study: Trial Lawyers Spent More Than $22 Mil. on Kansas TV Ads Over Past 5 Years

Press Releases

From 2017 through 2021, trial lawyer groups flooded Kansas airwaves
with nearly 1 million TV ads

Study: Trial Lawyers Spent More Than $47 Mil. on Pennsylvania Ads in 2021

Press Releases

In 2021, trial lawyer groups flooded Pennsylvania with nearly 500,000 ads

Study: Trial Lawyers Spent More Than $360 Mil. on New York State Ads Over Past 5 Years

Press Releases

From 2017 through 2021, trial lawyer groups flooded New Yorkers
with more than 3.5 million ads

Study: Trial Lawyers Spent More Than $69 Mil. on Missouri TV Ads Over Past 5 Years

Press Releases

From 2017 through 2021, trial lawyer groups flooded Missouri airwaves
with more than 1.2 million TV ads

Study: Trial Lawyers Spent More Than $263 Million on Georgia TV Ads Over Past 5 Years

Press Releases

From 2017 through 2021, trial lawyer groups flooded Georgia airwaves
with more than 3.4 million TV ads

Study: Trial Lawyers Spent $1.4 Billion on Advertising in 2021

Press Releases

Trial lawyer groups flooded airways with more than 15 million local TV ads last year

Texas AG Candidate Eva Guzman Prioritizes Transparency

Press Releases

ATRA developed the Transparency Code as a collection of model policies that should govern the use of outside counsel by state attorneys general.

Rhode Island Senator Calls Out Forum Shopping As Problematic During Congressional Bankruptcy Hearing

Press Releases

Congress should address forum shopping to even the playing field

Profit-Driven Lawyers Deter Comprehensive Solutions for Opioid Crisis

In The News

Lawyers who are driven by potential winnings and settlements threaten to frustrate efforts to resolve litigation over the opioid epidemic, lessening the likelihood of achieving a meaningful resolution

Kentucky Bills Could Lower Lawsuit Costs and Improve Legal Climate

Press Releases

These proposals to address increasing tort costs would help reform Kentucky’s increasingly unfriendly liability climate and improve overall costs for families across the board.

Attempts Underway to Sway Public Perception of Bankruptcy Process

Press Releases

Association says plaintiffs’ lawyers attempting to undermine bankruptcy process

Transparency Prioritized by Texas AG Candidate George P. Bush

Press Releases

ATRA developed the Transparency Code as a collection of model policies that should govern the use of outside counsel by state attorneys general.

ATRA Applauds Decision by Bankruptcy Judge

Press Releases

Association says the decision follows the law and rejects excessive costs and delays in reorganization

Conservatives for Abusive Lawsuits

In The News

Lawmakers shouldn’t make it easier for employees to sue over vaccine mandates.

Lawsuits on Covid Vaccine Mandates Next Liability Threat

Press Releases

Recent webinar analyzed covid litigation trends and more

Nation’s Worst ‘Judicial Hellholes’ Expand Liability, Allow Frivolous Lawsuits

Press Releases

California tops 2021-2022 list; excessive litigation impacts economies coast-to-coast

California Named Worst ‘Judicial Hellhole’

Press Releases

Limitless liability launches state to top of list

Empire State Towers Among Worst Litigation Problems in Country

Press Releases

Trial lawyers file endless lawsuits while legislature gives them more opportunities to sue

Rotting Civil Justice System in Peach State Propels Ga. Supreme Court to Third Worst Judicial Hellhole

Press Releases

State Supreme Court’s penchant for
liability expansion a major contributing factor

Pennsylvania Courts Maintain ‘Judicial Hellholes’ Status

Press Releases

Problems include mass tort litigation and out-of-state lawsuits

Illinois Counties Remain Among Judicial Hellholes Ranks

Press Releases

Madison, St. Clair and Cook Counties reign supreme for asbestos, ‘no-injury’ lawsuits

Louisiana Loses Out, Tops ‘Judicial Hellholes’ List

Press Releases

Coastal lawsuits and Gov. Edwards vetoes contribute to No. 6 ranking

‘Judicial Hellhole’ Ranking Remains Due to St. Louis City Courts

Press Releases

Out-of-state lawsuits and court’s lax attitude toward expert evidence to blame

Plaintiff-Friendly Asbestos Judge Solidifies South Carolina on ‘Judicial Hellholes’ List

Press Releases

State’s asbestos docket maintains status for second consecutive year

Oklahoma Supreme Court Rejects Public Nuisance Expansion in Landmark Opioid Case

Press Releases

2019 Opioid Ruling Overturned

Congress Must Prioritize National Interest over Lawyers’ Profit Motives

In The News

Congress must prioritize national interests over the profit motives of plaintiffs’ lawyers and address the real issue driving the bankruptcy process.

In War On Arbitration, Consumers And Companies Both Lose

In The News

ATRA President Tiger Joyce writes how companies that end arbitration face the risk of consumer class actions, in the face of plaintiffs firms ramping up mass arbitration proceedings.

Statement on the Passing of Former Missouri State Senator Ed Emery

Press Releases

We are saddened to hear of former Missouri state Senator Ed Emery’s untimely death. Senator Emery was not only a champion of tort reform, but a pillar in his community. […]

New Law Could Mean Trial Lawyers Peeping Your Taxes — Then Suing You

In The News

The New York trial bar may get yet another gift from the state lawmakers seemingly tied around their finger.

Class Action Settlements Serve Lawyers Over Class Members

Press Releases

Lawsuit abuse across the U.S. results in more than $160 billion in excessive tort costs

Covid Liability Protections Signed Into Law in Missouri

Press Releases

Financial benefit of reforming Missouri’s tort system could support an additional 20k+ jobs & $3.38B in increased economic activity

Illinois Trial Lawyers Spend $155 Million on TV Ads in Last Five Years

Press Releases

$7 million spent in Quarter 1 of 2021 to air nearly 61,000 local legal services TV ads in Illinois

SCOTUS Denies Cert in Missouri Talc Case

Press Releases

By denying cert, the Supreme Court is failing to deliver on its promise of equal justice under the law

SCOTUS Denies Review in Janssen Case

Press Releases

Fails to Affirm Supremacy of Federal Law

Liability Reform Bills Prioritized and Signed in Montana

Press Releases

Montana Governor Greg Gianforte signs key bills aimed at improving the state’s civil justice system.

SCOTUS Should Affirm Federal Law Supremacy With FDA Authority Case

In The News

The U.S. Supreme Court has a chance to rein in state court rulings that impose liability on pharmaceutical companies that go beyond, and even contradict, the federal regulatory process of the FDA, according to Tiger Joyce, president of the American Tort Reform Association. He explains why it is imperative the high court review a case involving Janssen Pharmaceuticals.

West Virginia Legislative Session Produces Batch of Legal Reform Bills Signed by Gov

Press Releases

Governor Jim Justice signs four key bills aimed at improving the state’s civil justice system

Louisiana Trial Lawyers Spend Big on Ads Across the State

Press Releases

State Senator from Shreveport-Bossier seeks to curb over-the-top, dishonest ads

Minnesotans Deserve Transparency from AG Ellison

In The News

ATRA President Tiger Joyce takes a look at Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison’s lawsuit claiming oil companies “deceived Minnesotans about climate change.”

West Virginia Bill Could Empower Juries With More Relevant Evidence

Press Releases

Bill on seat belt admissibility heads to Governor

Brief Calls Out Joining Dissimilar Claims in Missouri Talc Suit

Press Releases

SCOTUS Determining Whether to Hear Appeal by Defendant – ATRA Calls for Guidance to Establish Due Process Limitations On the Use of “Joinder”

Florida Enacts Covid Liability Protections

Press Releases

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signs covid liability protections into law in the state which has seen a disproportionate amount of legal services ads related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Garland Should Oppose Biden Effort to Reinstate Controversial ‘Slush Funds’ Practice

In The News

Writing for The Hill, ATRA President Tiger Joyce discusses the Biden administration’s plans to allow a settlement slush fund and issues the practice has caused at the state level.

With This Missouri Case, the Supreme Court Could Curb Activist State Judiciaries

In The News

ATRA President Tiger Joyce writes about issues with a landmark talc case in Missouri and how the U.S. Supreme Court can step in.

West Virginia Legislature Looks to Address COVID-19 Liability

Press Releases

Trial lawyers’ spending on covid ads last year surpassed $260,000

Opinion: Nessel Shouldn’t Cater to Trial Lawyers

In The News

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel would needlessly create opportunities for entrepreneurial trial lawyers to pursue those that drive Michigan’s economy, ATRA President Tiger Joyce writes.

SCOTUS Input Requested in Landmark Missouri Talc Case

Press Releases

This week, the U.S. Supreme Court was called upon to review a landmark talcum powder case which loosely linked baby powder use to ovarian cancer and resulted in a multi-billion-dollar […]

PA Supreme Court Further Expands Liability With Latest Ruling

Press Releases

Yesterday, the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania issued a ruling that makes the state even more appealing to trial lawyers by removing the need to prove a business was fraudulent or negligent under the state’s consumer protection law. The Court […]

Hold On to Your Pocketbooks If Interest Goes Up On Civil Lawsuits

In The News

Excessive litigation costs Illinois businesses more than $18.9 billion annually, write ATRA President Tiger Joyce and John Pastuovic for the Chicago Sun Times.

Plaintiffs firms spent more than $34 million on COVID-19 ads, tort reform group says

In The News

Caroline Spiezio for Reuters reports on ATRA’s February 2021 legal services advertising report.

Missouri Legislature Looks to Address COVID-19 Liability

Press Releases

Trial lawyers’ spending on covid ads last year surpassed $400,000

Report: Trial Lawyers Spend Millions on Covid Ads

Press Releases

Liability protections needed at state level

Florida TV Viewers Pelted with COVID-19 Trial Lawyer Ads

Press Releases

Legislature moving on bills to address covid liability concerns

Maryland Lawmakers Look to Address COVID-19 Liability

Press Releases

Trial lawyers’ spending on covid ads last year surpassed $650,000

Law Firms Are Abusing California Lemon Law Fee Provision

In The News

ATRA President Tiger Joyce writes about a worrisome trend involving California “lemon law” suits.

Poll Shows Public Disapproval for COVID-19 Lawsuits; Government Aid for Small Businesses Overwhelmingly Preferred

Press Releases

With a new presidential administration officially at the helm, public support for aid to small businesses and others impacted by the pandemic remains high.  A new survey released today by the American Tort Reform […]

Trial Lawyers’ Rush Amendment Passes IL House in Early Morning Hours, Heads to Governor

Press Releases

ATRA’s statement on passage of Amendment 1 to Illinois House Bill 3360

IL Lawmakers Rush to Amend Bill for Trial Lawyers’ Gain, Ignore COVID-19 Liability Protections

Press Releases

ATRA’s statement on Amendment 1 to Illinois House Bill 3360

Statement Concerning Violent Mob Attack on U.S. Capitol

Press Releases

ATRA President Tiger Joyce released the following statement in response to the unprecedented attack on the U.S. Capitol building on January 6:

Philadelphia Courts Ranked No. 1 Judicial Hellhole In the Nation

In The News

The Keystone State’s climate of lawsuit abuse harms Pennsylvanians by clogging the court system, driving away jobs and driving up insurance costs for consumers, ATRA President Tiger Joyce writes in a letter for the Patriot-News.

Congress Fails to Protect Small Businesses & Others from COVID-19 Liability

Press Releases

ATRA voices its disappointment as Congress fails to include liability protections in its latest COVID-19 relief package.

NYC’s Becoming an Even Nastier ‘Judicial Hellhole’

In The News

The New York Post Editorial Board writes about New York’s status as a “Judicial Hellhole.”

Courts in ‘Judicial Hellholes’ Less Likely to Abide by SCOTUS Precedent

In The News

ATRA President Tiger Joyce writes in this op-ed about a growing trend of state courts bucking SCOTUS precedent when it comes to personal jurisdiction.

Philadelphia and New York City Top Sue-happy ‘Judicial Hellholes’

In The News

Coverage of the American Tort Reform Foundation’s Judicial Hellholes report by Paul Bedard of the Washington Examiner.

COVID-19 Lawsuits Ravage Businesses

In The News

ATRA President Tiger Joyce writes about COVID-19 litigation and the need for liability protections, especially in states deemed “Judicial Hellholes.”

Minnesota Slides Into ‘Judicial Hellholes’ Ranks Yet Again

Press Releases

Activism in AG’s office, Supreme Court’s acceptance of lawsuit funding and loose venue rules to blame

Illinois Counties’ Love of Lawsuits Lands Them ‘Judicial Hellholes’ Title

Press Releases

Cook, Madison and St. Clair Counties ranked No. 8 due in part to high filing of “no injury” data privacy lawsuits

‘Judicial Hellhole’ St. Louis a Gateway for Out-of-State Lawsuits

Press Releases

Mo. Supreme Court refuses to review talc decision, majority of plaintiffs from out of state

Georgia Named a ‘Judicial Hellhole’ for 2nd Year

Press Releases

High-dollar verdicts and liability expansion to blame

Louisiana Lands In Top 5 Judicial Hellholes

Press Releases

Auto insurance scams and coastal lawsuits top concerns

Asbestos Litigation Skyrockets South Carolina Near Top of “Judicial Hellholes” Ranks

Press Releases

The court’s case consolidation results in No. 4 ranking

California Named a Top ‘Judicial Hellhole’

Press Releases

State policies harm workers, Lemon Law lawsuits increase

The City That Never Stops Suing: New York City Named a Top Judicial Hellhole

Press Releases

The Big Apple’s avaricious attorneys refused to let a global pandemic slow their stride and in turn earned their city the dubious distinction of a “Judicial Hellhole” yet again. The […]

Pennsylvania Courts Top ‘Judicial Hellholes’ List

Press Releases

Philly Court of Common Pleas, PA Supreme Court allow out-of-state lawsuits while Gov. Wolf vetoes liability protections

COVID-19 Exacerbates Lawsuit Abuse in Nation’s Judicial Hellholes

Press Releases

Report names two Pennsylvania courts to top spot

Trial Lawyers’ COVID-19 Lawsuits Are Definitely Not the Answer

In The News

ATRA President Tiger Joyce writes about the threat of lawsuits related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

New Poll Finds Strong Bipartisan Support for Government Action vs. Litigation When it Comes to Handling the COVID-19 Pandemic

Press Releases

While COVID-19 relief efforts stall in Congress, public support for aid to small businesses and others impacted by the pandemic remains high.  According to a new survey released today by […]

Missouri Supreme Court declines to review billion-dollar award against Johnson & Johnson baby powder

In The News

Juliette Fairley of the St. Louis Record reports on the Missouri Supreme Court’s decision not to review a $2 billion verdict.

Trial Lawyers Look to Profit Off Pandemic by Targeting Insurers

In The News

ATRA President Tiger Joyce penned an op-ed for Law360 on the surge of COVID-19-related lawsuits targeting the insurance industry.

Pa. Supreme Court Disregards SCOTUS Ruling

In The News

Nicholas Malfitano of the Pennsylvania Record writes about the Pennsylvania Supreme Court’s ruling on jurisdiction in a lawsuit filed by an out-of-state resident.

COVID-19 Lawsuit Protections Signed Into Law in Michigan

Press Releases

ATRA praises the passage of HB 6030 in Michigan, enacting COVID-19 liability protections.

Supreme Court of Pennsylvania Defies SCOTUS Precedent

Press Releases

ATRA’s statement on the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania’s ruling in Hammons v. Ethicon to allow an out-of-state lawsuit to continue, openly defying SCOTUS precedent.

ATRA Warns Against ‘New Species of Super Tort’ in Oklahoma Opioid Judgment

In The News

Amanda Bronstad with Law.com writes about the potential repercussions if the 2019 $465 million judgment against Johnson & Johnson stands.

Support for Johnson & Johnson’s Appeal In Massive Oklahoma Opioid Judgment

Press Releases

ATRA files amicus brief in support of Johnson & Johnson’s decision to appeal a 2019 $465 million judgment against the company, warning against the state attorney general’s expansive use of public nuisance law.

Lawsuit Abuse Awareness Week: This affects all of us

In The News

ATRA President Tiger Joyce spoke with Juliette Farley of the Southern California Record about Lawsuit Abuse Awareness Week and business interruption lawsuits.

First Ga. COVID-19 Business Interruption Ruling

In The News

ATRA President Tiger Joyce spoke with Rosie Manins of the Law360 about business interruption lawsuits in the wake of COVID-19.

Transparency A Priority For Montana AG Candidate

Press Releases

ATRA reports Montana attorney general candidate Austin Knudsen signed its AG Transparency Code pledge.

SCOTUS to Rule on Jurisdiction After State Courts Ignore Guidance

Press Releases

ATRA urges SCOTUS to push back the on overly expansive approaches to jurisdiction shown by courts in Minnesota and Montana.

North Carolina AG Candidates Fail To Embrace Government Transparency

Press Releases

ATRA reports North Carolina attorney general candidates’ inaction on transparency code pledge.

West Virginia AG Candidates Fail to Sign Transparency Oath

In The News

ATRA reports neither candidate for West Virginia Attorney General has signed its transparency oath, writes Chris Dickerson for the West Virginia Record.

Trial Lawyers Treat COVID-19 As Another Feather In Their Caps

In The News

ATRA President Tiger Joyce writes about trial lawyers’ latest pet project – business interruption lawsuits against insurance companies in the wake of COVID-19.

Transparency On the Back Burner for West Virginia AG Candidates

Press Releases

ATRA reports West Virginia attorney general candidates’ inaction on transparency code pledge.

Utah AG Candidates Vow to Prioritize Transparency by Signing Pledge

Press Releases

ATRA announces two Utah candidates for attorney general signing its AG transparency code pledge.

Trial Lawyers Delight at Prospect of Congress, White House Flip

In The News

A Washington controlled by Democrats would be a bonanza for the trial bar, writes W.J. Kennedy for Legal Newsline.

Majority of US States Block Juries’ Access to True Medical Costs

In The News

ATRA President Tiger Joyce writes about the troubling new trend of medical financing in litigation for Medium.

Judge Managing Opioid Lawsuit Under Scrutiny

In The News

ATRA President Tiger Joyce dives into controversies surrounding biases of the federal judge overseeing the nation’s opioid MDL for Inside Sources.

Liability Shield in Congress – ATRA Urges Quick Action

Press Releases

ATRA supports the SAFE TO WORK Act as part of the Senate’s HEALS Act legislative package for coronavirus relief.

COVID-19 Business Interruption Litigation Surges

Press Releases

COVID-19 business interruption lawsuits surge – ATRA warns the civil justice system doesn’t exist to perform the functions of legislators, regulators or public health experts.

ALI Consumer Contract Restatement Is Biased Advocacy

In The News

ATRA President Tiger Joyce writes about the American Law Institute’s diversion from its original mission in this opinion editorial for Law360.

Injury Attys Undaunted By COVID-19 Nursing Home Immunity

In The News

ATRA President says COVID-19 statutes reflect a broader perspective than lawsuit shields as they are enacted by lawmakers, not just a single governor.

Governor signs law on punitive damages, merchandising act

In The News

Missouri Governor Mike Parson signed into law reforms to the state’s punitive damages system, writes John Breslin for the St. Louis Record.

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson Signs Landmark Civil Justice Reform Bill Into Law

Press Releases

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson signed S.B. 591 to amend Missouri’s consumer protection act and the state’s punitive damages system.

Federal Judge Takes Stand Against Junk Science in California

Press Releases

Federal Judge William Shubb ruled that due to insufficient evidence, California cannot require glyphosate-based weedkiller Roundup to be labeled as “known to the state of California to cause cancer.”

Congress needs to pass tort reform to protect CARES Act funding

In The News

ATRA cited in an opinion editorial by John DeMaggio for The Hill regarding potential lawsuit abuse in the wake of COVID-19.

COVID-19 Liability Protection & ATRA Priority Bill Signed By Gov. Kim Reynolds

Press Releases

ATRA thanks Gov. Kim Reynolds for signing and the Iowa legislature for passing S.F. 2338, providing COVID-19 liability protections and reforming phantom damages in Iowa.

Pennsylvania Needs a Smart Re-Start with Liability Protections

Press Releases

ATRA urges the Pennsylvania legislature to enact liability protections for critical industries like healthcare providers, PPE manufacturers and small businesses.

Louisiana Scores Second Shot at Civil Justice Reforms

Press Releases

ATRA encourages the Louisiana State Senate to pass and Gov. John Bel Edwards to sign H.B. 57 to help reduce auto insurance rates.

Healthcare Workers Still In Need of Liability Protection

Press Releases

ATRA voices its support for H.R. 7059, the Coronavirus Provider Protection Act.

Virus Liability Shields Move Ahead in Louisiana, Other States

In The News

States advance liability shields for businesses in the absence of federal liability protection, writes Chris Marr of Bloomberg Law.

ATRA Files Comments with EPA, Questions Credibility of Asbestos Risk Assessment Coalition

Press Releases

ATRA joined others in voicing objection to the EPA’s inclusion of certain experts in its evaluation of asbestos risk.

Climate cases keep landing in state court. Why it matters

In The News

Judges across the country have now determined that climate lawsuits against oil and gas companies belong in state courts, writes Jennifer Hijazi of E&E News.

9th Circuit Fails to Rein In Expansion of Public Nuisance Law

Press Releases

ATRA states its disappointment in the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals’ decision that certain public nuisance climate lawsuits can proceed in state court.

In shortened session, legislators manage to pass tort reform bill, key win for businesses

In The News

Business leaders and tort reform advocates have welcomed changes that will limit punitive damage awards in Missouri, John Lewis of the St. Louis Record writes.

Climate Case Is Ninth Circuit’s Golden Opportunity on Nuisance Suits

In The News

The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals has an opportunity to redirect policy and push back on activist attorneys’ attempts to improperly expand public nuisance law. With Covid-19 public nuisance lawsuits coming, Tiger Joyce, president of the American Tort Reform Association, discusses the importance of the climate change lawsuit.

Consumer Protection Reform Bill Passed by Missouri Legislature

Press Releases

The Missouri legislature passed S.B. 591 to amend the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act (MMPA) and the standards by which punitive damages are awarded.

ATRA Urges Senate to Pursue Employer Liability Protections

Press Releases

ATRA is grateful to both President Trump’s administration and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) for prioritizing liability protections for health care workers, manufacturers and business owners.

Carmichael says legislation to protect essential businesses, workers being drafted

In The News

West Virginia Senate President Mitch Carmichael says legislation is being drafted to ensure liability protections to protect small business owners and workers, especially health care workers who are protecting our state’s citizens amid the Coronavirus pandemic, writes Chris Dickerson of the West Virginia Record.

ATRA Encouraged by West Virginia Senate Focus on Employer Liability

Press Releases

Today, West Virginia Senate President Mitch Carmichael announced he is drafting legislation which aims to protect West Virginians from liability related to the COVID-19 pandemic.  ATRA supports legislative action to […]

ATRA Encouraged by Sen. McConnell’s Focus on Liability

Press Releases

Senate Majority Leader Prioritizes Employer Liability Protection Shield

Like Virus Itself, Future of Malpractice Liability Is Uncharted

In The News

During a pandemic, where contagious people crowd spaces shared with the uninfected or the healthy, concern over liability is heightened, writes Brandi Buchanan of Courthouse News Service.

Lawsuits Loom Over COVID-19 Exposure As Businesses Reopen Around the U.S.

In The News

As businesses reopen during the COVID-19 pandemic, tort reformers are mobilizing to enact federal and state protections against an anticipated plethora of personal injury lawsuits, writes Amanda Bronstad of Law.com.

Lawsuits Look to Place Blame on Industry

Press Releases

New trend shows companies sued for everything from coronavirus to climate change

Employer Liability Protection Crucial to Re-Open the Economy

Press Releases

President Trump is considering employers’ liability concerns surrounding the planned re-opening of U.S. businesses in the wake of COVID-19.

Class-Action Conundrum

In The News

ATRA President Tiger Joyce writes about COVID-19 liability concerns and class action lawsuit abuse.

6th Circuit Finds Multidistrict Litigation Must Comply with Federal Rules of Civil Procedure

Press Releases

Statement from the American Tort Reform Association applauding a writ of mandamus issued by the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals.

Protecting Our COVID-19 Protectors

In The News

ATRA President Tiger Joyce writes about COVID-19 liability concerns in Inside Sources.

Legislation Best Suited to Address COVID-19 Liability

Press Releases

Executive orders may provide relief but likely face future court challenges

ATRA Supports Sen. Sasse Liability Shield

Press Releases

ATRA details its support of inclusion of the Facilitating Innovation to Fight Coronavirus Act in the fourth coronavirus stimulus package.

Covid Class Actions Surge – 90% Receive No Benefit

Press Releases

As trial lawyers begin to capitalize on the coronavirus pandemic by filing class action lawsuits alleging consumer fraud, a new report reveals that more than 90% of class members in consumer fraud cases receive no benefit whatsoever from this type of litigation.

Suits against cruise line signal start of litigation over coronavirus

In The News

Lawsuits alleging negligence by Princess Cruises for failing to warn about the possibility of contracting the coronavirus are part of what likely will be a multitude of COVID-19 related litigation, a tort reform advocate says, writes Sarah Downey for the Northern California Record.

Good Samaritan Provision for Healthcare Workers Supported by ATRA

Press Releases

ATRA supports inclusion of Good Samaritan provision in the coronavirus stimulus relief package.

Medical malpractice carriers giving, getting leeway in face of COVID-19 pandemic

In The News

Medical malpractice insurers have responded with flexibility as their clients deal with liability concerns produced by the COVID-19 pandemic, writes Tom Jacobs for S&P Global Market Intelligence.

Lessening Liability Amid Coronavirus Outbreak Supported by ATRA

Press Releases

-UPDATE- The Families First Coronavirus Response Act was passed by the Senate and signed into law by President Trump on March 18, 2020. MEDIA STATEMENT Last night, the U.S. House […]

Bloomberg and Biden’s social solution? Sue.

In The News

ATRA Public Affairs Manager Bailey N. Griffith writes about a call for more litigation from Vice Presidential Candidate Joe Biden.

Philly can become less anti-business by looking at the courts

In The News

By Tiger Joyce and Curt Schroder (Pennsylvania Coalition for Civil Justice Reform)   Mayor Jim Kenney touted the importance of fostering a pro-business climate in Philadelphia during his Feb. 11 […]

Report: Excessive lawsuit costs subtract almost $2 billion and 20,000 jobs from Louisiana’s economy

In The News

Groups calling for an overhaul of Louisiana’s legal system say “excessive” litigation costs subtract $1.9 billion from the state’s annual economic output, leading to the loss of 19,794 jobs and […]

ATRA says attorneys spent $1.5 million on TV ads in West Virginia in three months

In The News

The American Tort Reform Association has released a report showing that attorneys spent $1.5 million from July through September on television advertisements in West Virginia.   ATRA found that viewers […]

Florida Lawyers Dump $13 Million Into TV Ads

Press Releases

Florida Lawyers Dump $13 Million Into TV Ads New report shines a light on the 113,000 local ads from 2019’s third quarter; $71 million spent on national ads JANUARY 28, […]

Georgia Lawyers Dump $10 Million Into TV Ads

Press Releases

Georgia Lawyers Dump $10 Million Into TV Ads New report shines a light on the 100,000+ local ads from 2019’s third quarter; $71 million spent on national ads JANUARY 28, […]

West Virginia Lawyers Dump $1.5 Million Into TV Ads

Press Releases

West Virginia Lawyers Dump $1.5 Million Into TV Ads New report shines a light on the nearly 40,000 local ads from 2019’s third quarter; $71 million spent on national ads […]

Top 10 ‘Judicial Hellholes’ for 2020 Named by Tort Reform Group

In The News

It’s out: the annual report by tort reform advocates of what they say are the nation’s worst local courts and states that are abusing the civil justice system.   The […]

Tiger Joyce on Talk With Audrey – Judicial Hellholes

In The News

American Tort Reform Association President Sherman “Tiger” Joyce on Talk With Audrey discussing the 2019-2020 Judicial Hellholes.

Georgia Legislature must address tort reform

In The News

Georgia has earned a new distinction, and it’s not a good one. For the first time, our state is listed among the nation’s “Judicial Hellholes” by the American Tort Reform […]

Nationwide concerns cannot be solved in local courts

In The News

By Tiger Joyce   Vaping, climate change, and opioids might seem disconnected, but they have more in common than one might think. They’re each significant public challenges that state and […]

Tiger Joyce on Good Day Tulsa – Judicial Hellholes

In The News

American Tort Reform Association President Sherman “Tiger” Joyce on Good Day Tulsa discussing Oklahoma’s No. 8 ranking among the 2019-2020 Judicial Hellholes.

Tiger Joyce on ConnTV – Judicial Hellholes 2019-2020

In The News

American Tort Reform Association President Sherman “Tiger” Joyce on Conn TV discussing the 2019-2020 Judicial Hellholes.

Letters: Louisiana among the worst in lawsuit abuses against business

In The News

Louisiana unfortunately is a perpetual fixture on the American Tort Reform Foundation’s “Judicial Hellholes” list, which identifies those states with civil justice systems that allow lawsuit abuse to flourish. As […]

Ron DeSantis praised for improving legal environment

In The News

After a decade on the list, Florida has slipped out of the top-10 in the American Tort Reform Association’s annual “Judicial Hellholes” list. The Florida Justice Reform Institute attributes the […]

New York state is still a top ‘judicial hellhole,’ report finds

In The News

New York State is holding steady as the nation’s third worst “judicial hellhole,” according to a new watchdog report. The Big Apple’s rotten rank stems from serial plaintiffs and lawyers […]

Philadelphia Court Tops ‘Judicial Hellholes’ List

In The News

The Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas, where a jury awarded an $8 billion verdict against Johnson & Johnson, took the No. 1 spot in the annual “Judicial Hellholes” report.   […]

Louisiana labeled ‘Judicial Hellhole’ for 7th year

In The News

The American Tort Reform Association has once again labeled Louisiana as a “Judicial Hellhole” this year, ranking the state at No. 4. Louisiana has been included in the rankings for […]

St. Clair, Madison counties remain in the top ten for the worst ‘judicial hellholes’

In The News

The American Tort Reform Association has once again ranked St. Clair and Madison counties among the country’s worst “judicial hellholes” — jurisdictions, courts and legislatures the lobbying group considers unfair. […]

Judicial Hellholes Abuse Nation’s Civil Justice System

Press Releases

Judicial Hellholes Abuse Nation’s Civil Justice System Philadelphia’s Court of Common Pleas tops 2019-2020 list   DECEMBER 10, 2019 (WASHINGTON) – A new report highlights the worst local courts and states […]

Philly Trial Lawyers Spend $10.9 Million on Local Ads In First Half of 2019

Press Releases

Have you or a loved one been hurt? Lawyers bought 73,000 local ads to get you to answer. OCTOBER 8, 2019 (WASHINGTON) – Philadelphia area viewers saw approximately 73,000 local […]

Oklahoma Lands Spot as Judicial Hellhole

Press Releases

The conservative stronghold loses its roots and expands liability statewide July 9, 2019 (WASHINGTON) – Today, the American Tort Reform Association made a midyear addition to its annual “Judicial Hellholes” […]

Report Exposes Private Interest Groups Paying Government Staffers

Press Releases

Michael Bloomberg’s State Energy & Environmental Impact Center and U.S. Climate Alliance Pay Salaries of Embedded Staffers to Push Their Agendas MAY 29, 2019 (WASHINGTON) – Today, the American Tort […]

Report Exposes Greed of Louisiana Trial Lawyers

Press Releases

Lawyers spend $15.6 million soliciting their services and alarming citizens MAY 23, 2019 (WASHINGTON) – Today, the American Tort Reform Association released its first report on trial lawyer advertising in […]

Texas Trial Lawyers Spend $16.4 Million in Major Media Markets

Press Releases

132,000 ads aired in Dallas-Ft. Worth, Austin, San Antonio & Houston April 17, 2019 (WASHINGTON) – The American Tort Reform Association released its latest study on trial lawyer advertising, which […]

Kentucky Trial Lawyers Spend $7.2 Million in Major Media Markets

Press Releases

APRIL 9, 2019 (WASHINGTON) – Today, the American Tort Reform Association released a study showing spending on TV ads by trial lawyers in Kentucky’s largest media markets. If it feels […]

Report: $23.3 Million Spent by Trial Lawyers on Advertising in Texas TV Markets

Press Releases

March 21, 2019 (WASHINGTON) — Today, the American Tort Reform Association released a study showing spending on TV ads by trial lawyers in Texas’s largest media markets. “Don’t settle for quick cash! Call […]

New Report: Trial Lawyers Spend Millions on TV Ads in West Virginia

Press Releases

New Report: Trial Lawyers Spend Millions on TV Ads in West Virginia S.B. 66 to address deceptive lawsuit advertising practices   FEB. 25, 2019 (WASHINGTON) – Today, the American Tort […]

New Report Sheds Light on Lawsuit Trends

Press Releases

Jan. 15, 2019 (WASHINGTON) — A new report released by the American Tort Reform Association (ATRA) reveals the rapid growth of large firms representing state and municipal governments in cases involving opioids and […]

Study: $226 Million Spent by Trial Lawyers on Advertising in Quarter 3 of 2018

Press Releases

Jan. 10, 2019 (WASHINGTON) – Today, the American Tort Reform Association released a study showing spending in top media markets for TV ads from trial lawyers. “Have you been hurt? Call the number […]

Supreme Court’s Adoption of Novel Theories of Liability, Abusive ‘No-Injury’ Litigation, Place California atop Latest ‘Judicial Hellholes’ List

Press Releases

Supreme Court’s Adoption of Novel Theories of Liability, Abusive ‘No-Injury’ Litigation, Place California atop Latest ‘Judicial Hellholes’ List Nine Jurisdictions, Courts, and Legislatures Named Nation’s “Most Unfair” Dec. 4, 2018 […]

New Study Further Highlights Need for Reform: Study estimates cost of US tort system at $429 billion

Press Releases

Oct. 31, 2018 (WASHINGTON) – A new report released by the U.S. Chamber Institute for Legal Reform (ILR) further highlights both the overall cost and inefficiencies of the tort system […]

Economic Impact Report Analyzes Excessive Tort Costs on State Economies

Press Releases

Oct. 15, 2018 (WASHINGTON) – Today, the American Tort Reform Association (ATRA) and Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse (CALA) released six economic impact studies analyzing excessive tort costs in California, Florida, […]

ATRA Applauds Alan Wilson for Signing 2018 Transparency Code Pledge

Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C., October 9, 2018 – The American Tort Reform Association (ATRA) today praised South Carolina attorney general candidate Alan Wilson for embracing good-government principles by signing ATRA’s 2018 Transparency […]

ATRA Applauds Tom Leonard for Signing 2018 Transparency Code Pledge

Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C., October 9, 2018 – The American Tort Reform Association (ATRA) today praised Michigan attorney general candidate Tom Leonard for embracing good-government principles by signing ATRA’s 2018 Transparency Code […]

ATRA Encourages Pennsylvania Gubernatorial Candidates to Sign 2018 Transparency Code Pledge

Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C., October 9, 2018 – The American Tort Reform Association (ATRA) encourages Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf and candidate Scott Wagner to sign ATRA’s 2018 Transparency Code pledge and to […]

Lawsuit Abuse Awareness Week Highlights Economic Harm of Frivolous Litigation

Press Releases

Oct. 1, 2018 (WASHINGTON) – Today marks the start of Lawsuit Abuse Awareness Week: a week dedicated to putting a spotlight on the abusive lawsuits that clog courtrooms across the […]

Study Released by American Tort Reform Association: Trial Lawyers Spent $186 Million on Advertising in Second Quarter of 2018

Press Releases

WASHINGTON, SEPTEMBER 24, 2018 – Today, the American Tort Reform Association released a study showing spending and top media markets for TV ads from trial lawyers. “Have you or a […]

The Twin Cities Added to ATRF’s Judicial Hellholes Watch List

Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C., July 9, 2018 – In making a rare midyear addition to its annual “Judicial Hellholes” report, the American Tort Reform Foundation announced that the Twin Cities of Minnesota […]

ATRA Celebrates Geneva Carney’s 25th Anniversary

General

We at ATRA want to celebrate our colleague Geneva Carney’s 25th anniversary as a member of the team.  Geneva joined our staff on July 6, 1993.  Now, as the organization’s […]

ATRA Encourages AG Candidates to Sign 2018 Transparency Code Pledge

Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C., June 18, 2018 – The American Tort Reform Association (ATRA) encourages Oklahoma Attorney General candidates AG Mike Hunter, Gentner Drummond, Mark Myles, and Angela Bonilla to sign ATRA’s […]

ATRA Applauds AG Alan Wilson and William Herlong for Signing 2018 Transparency Code Pledge

Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C., June 11, 2018 – The American Tort Reform Association (ATRA) today praised South Carolina Attorney General candidates AG Alan Wilson and William Herlong for embracing good-government principles by […]

ATRA Applauds Laura Ellsworth for Signing 2018 Transparency Code

Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C., May 10, 2018 – The American Tort Reform Association (ATRA) today praised Pennsylvania gubernatorial candidate Laura Ellsworth for embracing good-government principles by signing ATRA’s 2018 Transparency Code pledge […]

ATRA Statement on Recent Personal Injury Lawyers’ Briefing in the U.S. House of Representatives

Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C., May 3, 2018– All Americans should be encouraged to know that responsible authorities in Washington and around the country are determined to address the complex public health problems […]

ATRA Commends Missouri for Bipartisan Passage of ‘Transparency Bill’

Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C., March 29, 2018 – The American Tort Reform Association (ATRA) today applauded Missouri lawmakers’ final passage of the Transparency in Private Attorney Contracting (TiPAC) Act, good-government legislation that […]

ATRA Commends Wisconsin Legislature for Passage of Comprehensive Reform Bill

Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C., March 23, 2018– The American Tort Reform Association (ATRA) today applauded Wisconsin lawmakers’ final passage of a multi-part legal reform package that includes very important reforms to the […]

ATRA Commends Kentucky for Bipartisan Passage of ‘Transparency’ Bill

Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C., March 22, 2018 – The American Tort Reform Association (ATRA) today applauded Kentucky lawmakers’ final passage of the Transparency in Private Attorney Contracting (TiPAC) Act, good-government legislation that […]

Wisconsin Legal Reform Package Set for Hearing Today

Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C., January 4, 2018 – Today, the Wisconsin Assembly Judiciary Committee will hold a hearing on AB 773, a multi-part legal reform package that includes very important reforms to […]

ATRA Critical of California High Court’s ‘Latest Gift to Plaintiffs’ Bar’

Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C., December 22, 2017 – The American Tort Reform Association is criticizing yesterday’s California Supreme Court decision to allow an “innovator liability” claim to proceed to trial as “both […]

Judicial Hellholes Report

General

High Court’s Contempt for Lawmakers’ Authority, Lawsuit Rackets Place Florida atop Latest ‘Judicial Hellholes’ List

Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C., December 5, 2017 – The American Tort Reform Foundation issued its 2017-2018 Judicial Hellholes®  report today, naming courts in Florida, California, Missouri, New York, Pennsylvania,  New Jersey, Illinois […]

ATRA Endorses Wisconsin’s 2018 Civil Justice Reform Platform

Press Releases

  WASHINGTON, D.C., December 1, 2017 – This week, the Wisconsin Legislature unveiled its 2018 civil justice platform which features two of the American Tort Reform Association’s highest priorities:  discovery […]

ATRA Honors Wisconsin’s Governor Walker with ‘Civil Justice Achievement Award’

Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C., November15, 2017 – During its annual fall legislative conference in Austin, Texas last evening, the American Tort Reform Association presented Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker with its “Civil Justice […]

ATRA Cheers 5th Circuit Reversal of Record-Setting FCA Verdict

Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C., October 3, 2017 – The American Tort Reform Association is cheering a U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit decision last Friday that reversed a record-setting $663 […]

ATRA Backs Congressman Faso’s Pro-Growth Reform Bill Aimed at New York’s Antiquated and Costly ‘Scaffold Law’

Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C., September 19, 2017 – The American Tort Reform Association today announced its support for reform legislation introduced by Congressman John Faso (R-NY) that “will allow the federal government […]

ATRA Brief Urges Mass. Supreme Judicial Court to Reject Theory of Innovator Liability

Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C., August 28, 2017 —The American Tort Reform Association (ATRA), along with the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) and the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) on Friday […]

ATRA Applauds John Adams for Signing 2017 Transparency Code Pledge

Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C., August 23, 2017 – The American Tort Reform Association (ATRA) today praised Virginia attorney general candidate John Adams for embracing good-government principles by signing ATRA’s 2017 Transparency Code […]

ATRA Critical of Giant ‘Junk Science’ Verdict in ‘Golden State for Trial Lawyers’

Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C., August 22, 2017 – Citing California’s stubborn and long criticized reluctance to adopt unambiguously the more exacting Daubert standard for expert evidence used in all federal courts and […]

Tort Lawyers Take Over the American Law Institute

In The News

Once respected for its objectivity, it’s becoming another interest group.

ATRA: ‘Follow the Trial Lawyers’’ Influence in Opioid Litigation

Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C., June 19, 2017 – Acknowledging the “growing scope, seriousness and complexity of our nation’s problems with the abuse of federally approved pain medication,” the American Tort Reform Association […]

ATRA Cheers SCOTUS Term’s Jurisdiction-Case ‘Trifecta’

Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C., June 19, 2017 – With today’s announced decision of a third significant jurisdictional case by the U.S. Supreme Court this term, the American Tort Reform Association applauded the […]

ATRA Briefs Urge SCOTUS to Limit Lower Courts’ Jurisdiction

Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 24, 2017 – With the U.S. Supreme Court to hear Tuesday appeals of two state supreme court decisions that dramatically expand lower courts’ personal jurisdiction over out-of-state […]

‘Pre-Judgment Interest’ Bill Would Further Advantage Trial Lawyers

Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C., March 29, 2017 – With the Florida Senate’s Rules Committee poised to take up another bill designed to advantage politically powerful personal injury lawyers in Tallahassee this afternoon, […]

ATRA Cheers Enactment of ‘Expert Witness’ Reform, Says Old Standard Helped Make Missouri the ‘Show Me Your Lawsuits State’

Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C., March 28, 2017 – With Gov. Eric Greitens expected to sign a key tort reform bill into law today, the American Tort Reform Association pointed again “to the […]

Trial Lawyers ‘Willfully Misleading’ Media, Public on Much Needed MPA Reform

Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C., February 7, 2017 – Noting “recent media coverage influenced by trial lawyers’ willful efforts to mislead the public about an important policy debate,” the American Tort Reform Association […]

ATRA Lauds Nomination of Judge Gorsuch to SCOTUS

Press Releases

 10th Circuit Record Shows ‘Refreshing’ Disinclination to Legislate from Bench  WASHINGTON, D.C., February 1, 2017 – Noting Judge Neil Gorsuch’s “refreshing record of leaving lawmaking to elected lawmakers,” the American […]

‘Junk Science,’ Outlier Verdicts Put St. Louis Atop Latest ‘Judicial Hellholes’ List

Press Releases

The American Tort Reform Foundation issued its 2016-2017 Judicial Hellholes® report, naming courts in Missouri, California, New York, Florida, New Jersey, Illinois, Louisiana, Virginia and Texas among the nation’s “most […]

Midyear Adjustment Now Ranks Newport News Asbestos Court Among the Nation’s Worst ‘Judicial Hellholes’

General

Tort Reform Group Recommends Constructive Reforms