Gov. Kemp Signs Major Tort Reform Bills in ‘Judicial Hellhole’ Georgia
ATRA Lauds New Laws Addressing Phantom Damages, Litigation Financing and More
Groups Urge Congressional Scrutiny of D.C. Attorney General’s Use of Private Attorneys
Concerns Mount Over Outside Counsel Contracts and Litigation Agendas
America’s $367 Billion Lawsuit Epidemic
The Hidden Tax Crushing Families and Businesses
$745 Million Verdict in Coastal Litigation Exemplifies Louisiana’s ‘Judicial Hellhole®’ Status
Excessive Litigation Costs Residents $1,011 Annually and Jeopardizes 40,000 Jobs Each Year
Alarming Expansion in Public Nuisance Litigation Revealed by ATRA Report
From Social Media to Car Thefts, New Litigation Trends Threaten Entire Industries
Georgia Legislature Passes Landmark Tort Reform Bill
ATRA Applauds Passage, Anticipates Governor’s Signature on SB 68
The trial lawyer playbook: How aggressive advertising and junk science are costing Californians
In 2024, legal services ads hit $164 million in LA, part of a 39% national rise, fueling aggressive marketing, third-party funding, and straining California’s economy and courts.
ATRA President: West Virginia Falling Behind on Legal Reform
Tiger Joyce Warns State Risks Losing Business to More Competitive Neighbors
South Carolina Governor Rallies Support for Key Legal Reform Package
Following Press Conference, S.B. 244 Set for Senate Floor Debate and Vote
ATRA Urges Gov. Youngkin to Veto HB 2351, Protect Right to Appeal in Virginia
Proposed Appeal Bond Cap Hike Threatens Fairness and Business Climate, ATRA Says
Trial Lawyer Advertising Soars to $2.5 Billion, Outpacing Pizza Restaurant Ads in Key Markets
New Report from the American Tort Reform Association Exposes Dangers of Aggressive Legal Services Advertising
Georgia Senate Acts to Restore Fairness in Civil Justice System
ATRA Applauds Passage of S.B. 68 to Address Phantom Damages, Jury Anchoring, Seat Belt Evidence Admissibility
ATRA Praises Lawmakers in ‘Judicial Hellhole®’ South Carolina for Pursuit of Tort Reform
Legislation Addresses Unfair Fault Allocation, Provides Juries with More Relevant Information
Maryland’s ‘Lawsuit Inferno’ Lawmakers Aim to Repeal Damage Limits, Increasing Costs for Residents
Marylanders’ Annual $1,731 ‘Tort Tax’ May Increase with Proposed Changes in Annapolis
American Tort Reform Association Responds to Confirmation of Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. as HHS Secretary
The health and safety of all Americans must be top priority
RFK Jr.’s Trial Lawyer Ties Raise Red Flags
We must ensure that all future health decisions are made with the best interests of all Americans in mind — not the financial motives of profit-seeking plaintiffs’ lawyers.
Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp Unveils Robust Tort Reform Package to Address Skyrocketing Costs
Proposed Reforms Aim to Slash $1,372 Annual ‘Tort Tax’ for Every Georgian
Public nuisance laws have no place in product liability determinations
Public nuisance is a legal argument originally intended to address issues involving land use and public spaces. However, profit-motivated trial lawyers have pushed to expand this concept far beyond its original scope, finding success in certain jurisdictions.
Louisiana’s “Judicial Hellhole®” Status Costs Residents $965 Annually In “Tort Tax”
Nuclear Verdicts® and Insurance Fraud Plague State’s Legal System
King County Courts Named ‘Judicial Hellhole®’ for First Time
New Report Ranks Seattle-Area Courts Among Worst in US
Michigan’s Legal Climate Kills 97,000 Jobs Annually, New Report Reveals
$1,046/Person ‘Tort Tax’ — Court Expands Liability, Michiganders Pay
Show Me Your Lawsuit: St. Louis Ranks 7th in ‘Judicial Hellholes®’ Report
Courts Threaten Preemie Formula Access, Residents Pay $1,475/Person/Year ‘Tort Tax’
Cook County’s $21.3 Billion Problem: Lawsuit Abuse
Report Ranks County 6th Worst ‘Judicial Hellhole®’
California’s Judicial Hellhole® Status: Where Innovation Meets Litigation
Lawsuit Abuse Costs Every Californian $2,300 Annually, Kills 825,000 Jobs
Georgia Named Top 5 ‘Judicial Hellhole®’ for Lawsuit Abuse
Nuclear Verdicts and ‘Lawsuit Lottery’ Cost Every Georgian $1,372 Annually
Judicial Overreach In South Carolina Asbestos Cases Draws National Scrutiny
Controversial Receivership Practices and Inflated Verdicts Raise Concerns
New York City Climbs to No. 2 ‘Judicial Hellhole®’ Amid Rampant ‘Fraudemic’
Lawsuit Abuse Costs Every New Yorker $2,320 Annually
Pennsylvania & Philly Named Top ‘Judicial Hellholes®’ As Healthcare Crisis Looms”
Nuclear Verdicts® and Expansive Rulings Cost Every Pennsylvanian $1,431 Annually
Judicial Hellholes® Report: Lawsuit Abuse Threatens Innovation and Economic Growth
Americans Slammed with $1,561 Hidden ‘Tort Tax,’ 2024-2025 Judicial Hellholes® Report Highlights Economic Impacts of Lawsuit Abuse
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.
Hidden Influence: How Third-Party Litigation Financing Fuels Lawsuit Abuse
It’s time to pull back the curtain on third-party litigation financing and restore balance to our courts.
Lawsuit Abuse Awareness Week — Protecting Arizona’s Small Businesses
Lawsuit Abuse Awareness Week prompts reflection on Arizona’s civil justice system, highlighting excessive tort costs harming small businesses, job loss, and economic growth.
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.
Shining a Light on Lawsuit Abuse: Kicking Off Lawsuit Abuse Awareness Week 2024
By fostering understanding and promoting smart reforms, we can help create a more balanced civil justice system that serves all citizens.
The Louisiana Supreme Court’s Alarming U-turn
The Pelican State deserves a judicial system that stands firmly on principles — not one swayed by the most recent political winds.
Trial Lawyers’ Latest Target: Life-Sustaining Baby Formula
Judges must recognize these cases for what they are: a cynical attempt to turn the suffering of families into a litigation jackpot.
Wall Street Journal: Junk Science Sometimes Still Prevails in Court
A recent Delaware case shows that not all states follow the Supreme Court’s 1993 Daubert ruling.
ATRA Applauds Utah AG Candidate Rudy Bautista for Signing Transparency Pledge
Republican Candidate Derek Brown Urged to Sign Pledge
Baltimore’s Opioid Lawsuit Is Wrong Approach to Overdose Crisis
Maryland taxpayers should be assured that state leadership is working in their best interests and not those of entrepreneurial trial lawyers.
ATRA Sounds Alarm on Colorado’s ‘Lawsuit Inferno’ in New Report
ATRA Declares State a ‘Lawsuit Inferno’ Amid Liability Onslaught
ATRA Puts California on ‘Heat Watch’ in New Legislative Report
Trial Lawyers’ Influence Keeps California on ATRA’s Radar
ATRA Sounds Alarm on Missouri’s ‘Lawsuit Inferno’ in New Report
ATRA Report Highlights How Political Infighting Blocks Crucial Reforms
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 New York’s ‘Lawsuit Inferno’ in New Report
Ignoring Widespread Call for Liability Reform, Lawmakers Miss Opportunity for Statewide Action
Liability Risks Reach ‘Inferno’ Level in New Hampshire
ATRA’s New Report Raises Alarm Over Legislature’s Liability Expansion
ATRA Sounds Alarm on Maryland’s ‘Lawsuit Inferno’ in New Report
Lawmakers Expand Liability as ‘Tort Tax’ Burdens Residents
ATRA Puts New Jersey on ‘Heat Watch’ in New Legislative Report
ATRA Monitors Liability-Expanding Agenda, Names State to ‘Heat Watch’
ATRA Puts Michigan on ‘Heat Watch’ for Liability-Expanding Agenda
ATRA Sounds Alarm on Trial Bar’s ‘Wish List’ of Liability Bills
ATRA Hails West Virginia as ‘Tort Reform Trailblazer’ After Passing Key Legal Reforms
Commercial Trucking, Litigation Funding Reforms Hailed as ‘Pivotal Progress’
ATRA Lauds Indiana as ‘Tort Reform Trailblazer’ for Passing Key Legal Reforms
State Passes Key Reforms on Evidence Rules, Litigation Financing
‘Highly Unusual’ Rehearing of Louisiana Case Raises Judicial Independence Concerns
Louisiana Supreme Court Waffles Under Political Pressure, ATRA Brief Urges Court to Stand Strong
America’s Top 9 Worst Judicial Hellholes®
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
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
Legitimate consumer protection demands sound science and impartial analysis — not distorted data designed to manufacture lawsuits.
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
New Rule 702 Helps Judges Keep Bad Science Out Of Court
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
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’
Plaintiff-friendly courts tilt the scales of justice at will.
California Ranks No. 3 on Judicial Hellholes® List
Report Reveals Ongoing Crisis and Urgent Need for Reform
Kentucky Emerges on Judicial Hellholes® Watch List for the First Time
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
St. Louis’ Legal Woes Exposed as Trial Lawyer Contributions Stall Reform
Louisiana Grapples with Judicial Hellholes® Distinction
From Coasts to Courts, State Struggles Under Weight of Judicial Hellholes® Title
Cook County, Illinois Rises to Second-Worst Judicial Hellhole® in Latest Report
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
St. Louis’ Legal Woes Exposed as Trial Lawyer Contributions Stall Reform
Michigan Capital Debuts at No. 6 in Judicial Hellholes® 2023-2024 Report
Judicial Hellholes® Report Highlights Asbestos Litigation Challenges
South Carolina Grapples with No. 5 Spot in Judicial Hellholes® Ranking
Judicial Hellholes® Report Highlights Asbestos Litigation Challenges
New York City Grabs No. 4 Spot in 2023-2024 Judicial Hellholes® Report
Ongoing Legal Challenges Impacting Daily Lives Unveiled
Pennsylvania’s Legal Landscape Ranks Worst in National Judicial Hellholes® Report
From nuclear verdicts to litigation tourism, Keystone State grapples with myriad legal challenges
Georgia Grabs Unwanted Crown as America’s Top Judicial Hellhole®
Georgia’s Legal Landscape Negatively Impacts Businesses, Communities, Pocketbooks
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
Why LA County’s Talc Litigation Misses the Mark
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
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
Climate Lawsuits Don’t Belong In State Courts
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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?
It’s time to end the cycle of endless litigation and outrageous attorney fees
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.
More Work Remains on Tort Reform
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
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
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
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
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
Transparency in Tort Reform
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
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
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
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
Over 40,000 claimants have been relegated to an overburdened and inefficient civil justice system.
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 […]
Trial lawyers target agriculture products in ‘Judicial Hellholes’
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
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
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’
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
Cook County Lawsuits Fail to Claim Actual Injuries
In No. 5 worst ‘Judicial Hellhole,’ Chicago residents pay $2,094 each in annual tort tax
Florida Legislature on Judicial Hellholes Watch List
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
Residents pay $1,463 annual ‘tort tax’ amid record-high inflation
South Carolina Asbestos Litigation Ranked ‘Judicial Hellhole’
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
Residents pay $1,875 ‘tort tax’ each year in fourth-worst Judicial Hellhole
PA Courts Encourage Blatant Venue Shopping, Remain Among Worst ‘Judicial Hellholes’
$1,200 ‘tort tax’ paid by Penn. residents annually
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”
‘Nuclear’ Verdicts Obliterate State Economies in Judicial Hellholes
Americans pay a ‘tort tax’ of more than $1,300 each year
Monsanto’s triumph over junk science
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
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
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
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
Third Circuit Can Uphold Reasonable Use of ‘Texas-Two-Step’ Law
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
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
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
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
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 […]
AG Group Is Turning Civil Justice System Into a For-Profit Business
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
ALI Oversteps With Expansive Restatement Of Contract Law
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
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 […]
National Attorneys General Organization Has Turned Into a Factory for Shady Litigation
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
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
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.”
Liability-lawsuit Expansion Bill Helps No One Except Lawyers
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
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 $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 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 $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
Profit-Driven Lawyers Deter Comprehensive Solutions for Opioid Crisis
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
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
Conservatives for Abusive Lawsuits
Lawmakers shouldn’t make it easier for employees to sue over vaccine mandates.
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
Congress Must Prioritize National Interest over Lawyers’ Profit Motives
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
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
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
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
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.
SCOTUS Should Affirm Federal Law Supremacy With FDA Authority Case
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
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
Minnesotans Deserve Transparency from AG Ellison
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
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.
Garland Should Oppose Biden Effort to Reinstate Controversial ‘Slush Funds’ Practice
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
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
Trial lawyers’ spending on covid ads last year surpassed $260,000
Opinion: Nessel Shouldn’t Cater to Trial Lawyers
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
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 […]
Hold On to Your Pocketbooks If Interest Goes Up On Civil Lawsuits
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
Caroline Spiezio for Reuters reports on ATRA’s February 2021 legal services advertising report.
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
Law Firms Are Abusing California Lemon Law Fee Provision
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
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:
Philadelphia Courts Ranked No. 1 Judicial Hellhole In the Nation
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
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’
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
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’
Coverage of the American Tort Reform Foundation’s Judicial Hellholes report by Paul Bedard of the Washington Examiner.
COVID-19 Lawsuits Ravage Businesses
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
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
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
Mo. Supreme Court refuses to review talc decision, majority of plaintiffs from out of state
Georgia Named a ‘Judicial Hellhole’ for 2nd Year
High-dollar verdicts and liability expansion to blame
Louisiana Lands In Top 5 Judicial Hellholes
Auto insurance scams and coastal lawsuits top concerns
Asbestos Litigation Skyrockets South Carolina Near Top of “Judicial Hellholes” Ranks
The court’s case consolidation results in No. 4 ranking
California Named a Top ‘Judicial Hellhole’
State policies harm workers, Lemon Law lawsuits increase
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 […]
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
COVID-19 Exacerbates Lawsuit Abuse in Nation’s Judicial Hellholes
Report names two Pennsylvania courts to top spot
Trial Lawyers’ COVID-19 Lawsuits Are Definitely Not the Answer
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
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
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
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
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
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.
ATRA Warns Against ‘New Species of Super Tort’ in Oklahoma Opioid Judgment
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
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
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
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
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.
West Virginia AG Candidates Fail to Sign Transparency Oath
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
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
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.
Trial Lawyers Delight at Prospect of Congress, White House Flip
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
ATRA President Tiger Joyce writes about the troubling new trend of medical financing in litigation for Medium.
Judge Managing Opioid Lawsuit Under Scrutiny
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
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.
ALI Consumer Contract Restatement Is Biased Advocacy
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
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
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
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.”
Congress needs to pass tort reform to protect CARES Act funding
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
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.
Virus Liability Shields Move Ahead in Louisiana, Other States
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
Carmichael says legislation to protect essential businesses, workers being drafted
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
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
Like Virus Itself, Future of Malpractice Liability Is Uncharted
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.
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
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.
Class-Action Conundrum
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
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
ATRA President Tiger Joyce writes about COVID-19 liability concerns in Inside Sources.
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.
Suits against cruise line signal start of litigation over coronavirus
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
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
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
-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.
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
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
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
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
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 […]
Top 10 ‘Judicial Hellholes’ for 2020 Named by Tort Reform Group
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
American Tort Reform Association President Sherman “Tiger” Joyce on Talk With Audrey discussing the 2019-2020 Judicial Hellholes.
Georgia Legislature must address tort reform
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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’
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
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 Celebrates Geneva Carney’s 25th Anniversary
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
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 […]
Tort Lawyers Take Over the American Law Institute
Once respected for its objectivity, it’s becoming another interest group.
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 […]
Midyear Adjustment Now Ranks Newport News Asbestos Court Among the Nation’s Worst ‘Judicial Hellholes’
Tort Reform Group Recommends Constructive Reforms