ATRA Commends Pennsylvania Lawmakers for Addressing Lawsuit Abuse
Pennsylvania lawmakers introduced liability reform bills to tackle lawsuit abuse. Proposed changes aim to enhance job creation and economic stability by limiting excessive litigation costs.
ATRA Kicks Off Lawsuit Abuse Awareness Week, Highlights Economic Burdens
This week is aimed at educating both the public and our government leaders about how excessive litigation drains resources from businesses, stifles innovation, and ultimately hurts consumers and job creation.
ATRA Applauds Utah AG Candidate Rudy Bautista for Signing Transparency Pledge
Republican Candidate Derek Brown Urged to Sign Pledge
ATRA Puts California on ‘Heat Watch’ in New Legislative Report
Trial Lawyers’ Influence Keeps California on ATRA’s Radar
ATRA Sounds Alarm on Colorado’s ‘Lawsuit Inferno’ in New Report
ATRA Declares State a ‘Lawsuit Inferno’ Amid Liability Onslaught
ATRA Hails Alabama as ‘Tort Reform Trailblazer’ After Passing Crucial Asbestos Litigation Reform
New Transparency, Evidence Requirements Passed; Comprehensive Reform Encouraged
ATRA Sounds Alarm on Missouri’s ‘Lawsuit Inferno’ in New Report
ATRA Report Highlights How Political Infighting Blocks Crucial Reforms
ATRA Lauds Indiana as ‘Tort Reform Trailblazer’ for Passing Key Legal Reforms
State Passes Key Reforms on Evidence Rules, Litigation Financing
ATRA Hails West Virginia as ‘Tort Reform Trailblazer’ After Passing Key Legal Reforms
Commercial Trucking, Litigation Funding Reforms Hailed as ‘Pivotal Progress’
ATRA Puts Michigan on ‘Heat Watch’ for Liability-Expanding Agenda
ATRA Sounds Alarm on Trial Bar’s ‘Wish List’ of Liability Bills
ATRA Puts New Jersey on ‘Heat Watch’ in New Legislative Report
ATRA Monitors Liability-Expanding Agenda, Names State to ‘Heat Watch’
ATRA Sounds Alarm on Maryland’s ‘Lawsuit Inferno’ in New Report
Lawmakers Expand Liability as ‘Tort Tax’ Burdens Residents
Liability Risks Reach ‘Inferno’ Level in New Hampshire
ATRA’s New Report Raises Alarm Over Legislature’s Liability Expansion
ATRA Sounds Alarm on New York’s ‘Lawsuit Inferno’ in New Report
Ignoring Widespread Call for Liability Reform, Lawmakers Miss Opportunity for Statewide Action
‘Highly Unusual’ Rehearing of Louisiana Case Raises Judicial Independence Concerns
Louisiana Supreme Court Waffles Under Political Pressure, ATRA Brief Urges Court to Stand Strong
ATRA Commends J&J’s Plan to Resolve Notorious Talc Lawsuits
Claimants Given Opportunity to Vote on Plan; Judge to Reconsider Scientific Validity of Plaintiffs’ Experts
Lawsuit Advertising Frenzy Fuels Georgia’s Litigation Epidemic
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
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
Two New Reports Analyze Legal Services Advertising Trends and Campaign Contributions
California Trial Lawyers’ Influence on Legal Landscape Exposed
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
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
ATRA’s Latest Reports Reveal the Deep Ties Between Trial Lawyers and New York Politics
California Ranks No. 3 on Judicial Hellholes® List
Report Reveals Ongoing Crisis and Urgent Need for Reform
Cook County, Illinois Rises to Second-Worst Judicial Hellhole® in Latest Report
Cook County Legal Woes Exposed: No-Injury Lawsuits, Excessive Verdicts, Business Struggles
Louisiana Grapples with Judicial Hellholes® Distinction
From Coasts to Courts, State Struggles Under Weight of Judicial Hellholes® Title
Justice on Trial as St. Louis Ranks No. 8 in 2023-2024 Judicial Hellholes® Report, Urging Reform
St. Louis’ Legal Woes Exposed as Trial Lawyer Contributions Stall Reform
Kentucky Emerges on Judicial Hellholes® Watch List for the First Time
Evolution in Legal Landscape and Emerging Challenges Highlighted
Georgia Grabs Unwanted Crown as America’s Top Judicial Hellhole®
Georgia’s Legal Landscape Negatively Impacts Businesses, Communities, Pocketbooks
Pennsylvania’s Legal Landscape Ranks Worst in National Judicial Hellholes® Report
From nuclear verdicts to litigation tourism, Keystone State grapples with myriad legal challenges
New York City Grabs No. 4 Spot in 2023-2024 Judicial Hellholes® Report
Ongoing Legal Challenges Impacting Daily Lives Unveiled
South Carolina Grapples with No. 5 Spot in Judicial Hellholes® Ranking
Judicial Hellholes® Report Highlights Asbestos Litigation Challenges
Michigan Capital Debuts at No. 6 in Judicial Hellholes® 2023-2024 Report
Judicial Hellholes® Report Highlights Asbestos Litigation Challenges
Florida No Longer a Judicial Hellhole®, Named Point of Light in Annual Report
St. Louis’ Legal Woes Exposed as Trial Lawyer Contributions Stall Reform
Legal Hotspots Unveiled In 2023-2024 Judicial Hellholes® Report
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
This shift is not in the best interests of consumers, manufacturers, or the state as a whole
Michigan Legislature Looks to Expand Liability, ATRA Urges Caution
Michigan lawmakers must consider the unintended consequences of expanding liability
Mass Tort Machine Exposed by Trial Lawyer Playbook Report
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
ATRA Reiterates Support for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Use to Address Mass Tort Litigation, Urges Meaningful Dialogue Amid Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing
House Oversight Hearing on Third-Party Litigation Financing Applauded by ATRA
The lack of oversight and transparency around third-party litigation funding threatens the integrity of our legal system
ATRA Applauds 4th Circuit’s Denial of En Banc Review in Bestwall Litigation
Allowing the company to continue the bankruptcy process will help ensure equitable and efficient resolution in complex mass tort claims
ATRA Urges 4th Circuit to Allow Bestwall LLC’s Bankruptcy Process for a Fair Resolution of Complex Asbestos Litigation
ATRA’s amicus brief highlights the importance of the bankruptcy process as a powerful tool to address mass tort litigation claims.
ATRA Urges Judge Kaplan to Prioritize Claimants’ Interests as Bankruptcy Proceedings Resume
LTL Management’s hearing on the plaintiffs’ motion to dismiss the bankruptcy proceedings begins June 27 and is scheduled to end June 30.
Montana AG Sues National Association of Attorneys General
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
“There is an urgent need in Louisiana for greater transparency in civil litigation,” ATRA President Tiger Joyce said.
Lawmakers Denounced for Pushing Punitive Damages in Last-Minute Amendment
Illinois Businesses Brace for Increased Costs and Diminished Appeal as Trial Bar Pushes for Punitive Damages in Wrongful Death Cases
Florida Named Judicial Hellholes Point of Light, DeSantis’s Efforts Praised
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
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
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
HB 837 heads to Governor’s desk
Florida Lawsuit Abuse Reform Prioritized by Governor and Legislative Leaders
American Tort Reform Association leads on advocating for transparency in damages in civil cases
ATRA Disappointed With IL Supreme Court BIPA Expansion
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
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 […]
Gov. DeSantis Signs Key Legal Reform Bill In Florida
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
Arbitrary, excessive punishments result from lack of clarity under some laws
Frivolous ‘No-Injury’ Lawsuits Thrive in California
State ranked No. 3 among worst ‘Judicial Hellholes’ in nation with residents paying $1,900 per year in ‘tort tax’
Cook County Lawsuits Fail to Claim Actual Injuries
In No. 5 worst ‘Judicial Hellhole,’ Chicago residents pay $2,094 each in annual tort tax
Endless Coastal Litigation Creates Climate of Lawsuit Abuse in ‘Judicial Hellhole’ Louisiana
Residents pay ‘tort tax’ of more than $1,010 amid all-time high inflation
Florida Legislature on Judicial Hellholes Watch List
Lawmakers’ lack of action on legal reform to blame for inclusion
Nuclear Verdicts Explode in No. 1 Judicial Hellhole Georgia
Recording-breaking $1.7 billion verdict doled out while residents pay $1,111 annual “tort tax”
PA Courts Encourage Blatant Venue Shopping, Remain Among Worst ‘Judicial Hellholes’
$1,200 ‘tort tax’ paid by Penn. residents annually
Lawsuit Lenders, Serial Plaintiffs Prey on Vulnerable New Yorkers and Small Businesses
Residents pay $1,875 ‘tort tax’ each year in fourth-worst Judicial Hellhole
South Carolina Asbestos Litigation Ranked ‘Judicial Hellhole’
Problematic case proceedings make the state’s asbestos docket one of the worst in the country
St. Louis ‘Judicial Hellhole’ Judges Permit ‘Junk’ Science Evidence, Known Haven for Trial Lawyers
Residents pay $1,463 annual ‘tort tax’ amid record-high inflation
‘Nuclear’ Verdicts Obliterate State Economies in Judicial Hellholes
Americans pay a ‘tort tax’ of more than $1,300 each year
$34M+ Spent on Lawyer Ads in Top California Media Markets So Far In 2022
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
The National Association of Attorneys General sits on $280M in assets
ATRA Files Amicus Brief in In re LTL Management, LLC
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
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
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 […]
Baseless Legal Attacks Could Worsen US Energy Woes
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 […]
New Oklahoma Law to Address Transparency in Private Attorney Contracting
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
ALI’s restatement of the law of ‘consumer contracts’ the latest in a surge of advocacy by the Institute
State Attorneys General Leave National Org Following ATRA Report
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
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
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
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 […]
Attorneys General Association Risks Member Loss Over Anti-Business Litigation
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”
This Coalition letter was sent to the Members of the U.S. House of Representatives, opposing H.R. 963, the “FAIR Act.”
ATRA Applauds Court’s Decision to Allow LTL’s Bankruptcy Process to Proceed
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
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
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
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
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
From 2017 through 2021, trial lawyer groups flooded New Yorkers
with more than 3.5 million ads
Study: Trial Lawyers Spent More Than $263 Million on Georgia TV Ads Over Past 5 Years
From 2017 through 2021, trial lawyer groups flooded Georgia airwaves
with more than 3.4 million TV ads
Study: Trial Lawyers Spent More Than $69 Mil. on Missouri TV Ads Over Past 5 Years
From 2017 through 2021, trial lawyer groups flooded Missouri airwaves
with more than 1.2 million TV ads
Study: Trial Lawyers Spent $1.4 Billion on Advertising in 2021
Trial lawyer groups flooded airways with more than 15 million local TV ads last year
Texas AG Candidate Eva Guzman Prioritizes Transparency
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
Congress should address forum shopping to even the playing field
Kentucky Bills Could Lower Lawsuit Costs and Improve Legal Climate
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
Association says plaintiffs’ lawyers attempting to undermine bankruptcy process
Transparency Prioritized by Texas AG Candidate George P. Bush
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
Association says the decision follows the law and rejects excessive costs and delays in reorganization
Lawsuits on Covid Vaccine Mandates Next Liability Threat
Recent webinar analyzed covid litigation trends and more
Nation’s Worst ‘Judicial Hellholes’ Expand Liability, Allow Frivolous Lawsuits
California tops 2021-2022 list; excessive litigation impacts economies coast-to-coast
California Named Worst ‘Judicial Hellhole’
Limitless liability launches state to top of list
Empire State Towers Among Worst Litigation Problems in Country
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
State Supreme Court’s penchant for
liability expansion a major contributing factor
Pennsylvania Courts Maintain ‘Judicial Hellholes’ Status
Problems include mass tort litigation and out-of-state lawsuits
Illinois Counties Remain Among Judicial Hellholes Ranks
Madison, St. Clair and Cook Counties reign supreme for asbestos, ‘no-injury’ lawsuits
Louisiana Loses Out, Tops ‘Judicial Hellholes’ List
Coastal lawsuits and Gov. Edwards vetoes contribute to No. 6 ranking
‘Judicial Hellhole’ Ranking Remains Due to St. Louis City Courts
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
State’s asbestos docket maintains status for second consecutive year
Oklahoma Supreme Court Rejects Public Nuisance Expansion in Landmark Opioid Case
2019 Opioid Ruling Overturned
Statement on the Passing of Former Missouri State Senator Ed Emery
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. […]
Class Action Settlements Serve Lawyers Over Class Members
Lawsuit abuse across the U.S. results in more than $160 billion in excessive tort costs
Covid Liability Protections Signed Into Law in Missouri
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
$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
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
Fails to Affirm Supremacy of Federal Law
Liability Reform Bills Prioritized and Signed in Montana
Montana Governor Greg Gianforte signs key bills aimed at improving the state’s civil justice system.
West Virginia Legislative Session Produces Batch of Legal Reform Bills Signed by Gov
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
State Senator from Shreveport-Bossier seeks to curb over-the-top, dishonest ads
West Virginia Bill Could Empower Juries With More Relevant Evidence
Bill on seat belt admissibility heads to Governor
Brief Calls Out Joining Dissimilar Claims in Missouri Talc Suit
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
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.
West Virginia Legislature Looks to Address COVID-19 Liability
Trial lawyers’ spending on covid ads last year surpassed $260,000
SCOTUS Input Requested in Landmark Missouri Talc Case
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
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 […]
Missouri Legislature Looks to Address COVID-19 Liability
Trial lawyers’ spending on covid ads last year surpassed $400,000
Report: Trial Lawyers Spend Millions on Covid Ads
Liability protections needed at state level
Florida TV Viewers Pelted with COVID-19 Trial Lawyer Ads
Legislature moving on bills to address covid liability concerns
Maryland Lawmakers Look to Address COVID-19 Liability
Trial lawyers’ spending on covid ads last year surpassed $650,000
Poll Shows Public Disapproval for COVID-19 Lawsuits; Government Aid for Small Businesses Overwhelmingly Preferred
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
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
ATRA’s statement on Amendment 1 to Illinois House Bill 3360
Statement Concerning Violent Mob Attack on U.S. Capitol
ATRA President Tiger Joyce released the following statement in response to the unprecedented attack on the U.S. Capitol building on January 6:
Congress Fails to Protect Small Businesses & Others from COVID-19 Liability
ATRA voices its disappointment as Congress fails to include liability protections in its latest COVID-19 relief package.
Pennsylvania Courts Top ‘Judicial Hellholes’ List
Philly Court of Common Pleas, PA Supreme Court allow out-of-state lawsuits while Gov. Wolf vetoes liability protections
The City That Never Stops Suing: New York City Named a Top Judicial Hellhole
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 […]
California Named a Top ‘Judicial Hellhole’
State policies harm workers, Lemon Law lawsuits increase
Asbestos Litigation Skyrockets South Carolina Near Top of “Judicial Hellholes” Ranks
The court’s case consolidation results in No. 4 ranking
Louisiana Lands In Top 5 Judicial Hellholes
Auto insurance scams and coastal lawsuits top concerns
Georgia Named a ‘Judicial Hellhole’ for 2nd Year
High-dollar verdicts and liability expansion to blame
‘Judicial Hellhole’ St. Louis a Gateway for Out-of-State Lawsuits
Mo. Supreme Court refuses to review talc decision, majority of plaintiffs from out of state
Illinois Counties’ Love of Lawsuits Lands Them ‘Judicial Hellholes’ Title
Cook, Madison and St. Clair Counties ranked No. 8 due in part to high filing of “no injury” data privacy lawsuits
Minnesota Slides Into ‘Judicial Hellholes’ Ranks Yet Again
Activism in AG’s office, Supreme Court’s acceptance of lawsuit funding and loose venue rules to blame
COVID-19 Exacerbates Lawsuit Abuse in Nation’s Judicial Hellholes
Report names two Pennsylvania courts to top spot
New Poll Finds Strong Bipartisan Support for Government Action vs. Litigation When it Comes to Handling the COVID-19 Pandemic
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 […]
COVID-19 Lawsuit Protections Signed Into Law in Michigan
ATRA praises the passage of HB 6030 in Michigan, enacting COVID-19 liability protections.
Supreme Court of Pennsylvania Defies SCOTUS Precedent
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.
Support for Johnson & Johnson’s Appeal In Massive Oklahoma Opioid Judgment
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.
Transparency A Priority For Montana AG Candidate
ATRA reports Montana attorney general candidate Austin Knudsen signed its AG Transparency Code pledge.
SCOTUS to Rule on Jurisdiction After State Courts Ignore Guidance
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
ATRA reports North Carolina attorney general candidates’ inaction on transparency code pledge.
Transparency On the Back Burner for West Virginia AG Candidates
ATRA reports West Virginia attorney general candidates’ inaction on transparency code pledge.
Utah AG Candidates Vow to Prioritize Transparency by Signing Pledge
ATRA announces two Utah candidates for attorney general signing its AG transparency code pledge.
Liability Shield in Congress – ATRA Urges Quick Action
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
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.
Missouri Gov. Mike Parson Signs Landmark Civil Justice Reform Bill Into Law
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
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.”
COVID-19 Liability Protection & ATRA Priority Bill Signed By Gov. Kim Reynolds
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
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
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
ATRA voices its support for H.R. 7059, the Coronavirus Provider Protection Act.
ATRA Files Comments with EPA, Questions Credibility of Asbestos Risk Assessment Coalition
ATRA joined others in voicing objection to the EPA’s inclusion of certain experts in its evaluation of asbestos risk.
9th Circuit Fails to Rein In Expansion of Public Nuisance Law
ATRA states its disappointment in the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals’ decision that certain public nuisance climate lawsuits can proceed in state court.
Consumer Protection Reform Bill Passed by Missouri Legislature
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
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.
ATRA Encouraged by West Virginia Senate Focus on Employer Liability
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
Senate Majority Leader Prioritizes Employer Liability Protection Shield
Lawsuits Look to Place Blame on Industry
New trend shows companies sued for everything from coronavirus to climate change
Employer Liability Protection Crucial to Re-Open the Economy
President Trump is considering employers’ liability concerns surrounding the planned re-opening of U.S. businesses in the wake of COVID-19.
6th Circuit Finds Multidistrict Litigation Must Comply with Federal Rules of Civil Procedure
Statement from the American Tort Reform Association applauding a writ of mandamus issued by the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals.
Legislation Best Suited to Address COVID-19 Liability
Executive orders may provide relief but likely face future court challenges
ATRA Supports Sen. Sasse Liability Shield
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
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.
Good Samaritan Provision for Healthcare Workers Supported by ATRA
ATRA supports inclusion of Good Samaritan provision in the coronavirus stimulus relief package.
Lessening Liability Amid Coronavirus Outbreak Supported by ATRA
-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 […]
Florida Lawyers Dump $13 Million Into TV Ads
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
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
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 […]
Judicial Hellholes Abuse Nation’s Civil Justice System
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 Encourages AG Candidates to Sign 2018 Transparency Code Pledge
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
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
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
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’
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
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
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
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’
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 […]
High Court’s Contempt for Lawmakers’ Authority, Lawsuit Rackets Place Florida atop Latest ‘Judicial Hellholes’ List
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
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’
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
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’
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
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
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’
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 […]
ATRA: ‘Follow the Trial Lawyers’’ Influence in Opioid Litigation
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’
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
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
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’
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
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
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
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 […]