A new tort reform bill has been introduced in Congress that would impose sanctions on lawyers for "frivolous" lawsuits. The bill would also attempt to reduce forum shopping. more...>
On the topic of tort reform, New York State should enact a stronger good faith law. If, for example, an insurance company fails to pay a claim in which they do not have a good faith defense, they should be subject to sanctions. For example, one high profile insurance company has an unofficial policy of not offering compensation to plaintiff's who are injured in auto accidents prior to jury selection in New York State. How would you feel if you were a passenger in a car waiting at a traffic light when an Allstate insured vehicle came into contact with your vehicle in the rear and they waited until jury selection (as long as three years) to compensate you for your injuries?