California Notes
In 1995, the Chief Justice of the California Supreme Court
In 1995, the Chief Justice of the California Supreme Court and the California Judicial Council, the research and policymaking body of the court system, established a Blue Ribbon Commission on jury reform. Several of the Commission’s recommendations involved universal service such as providing mandatory procedures for enforcing jury summonses, increasing juror fees, requiring all employers to continue paying usual compensation for the first three days of jury service, developing tax credits for employers continuing to pay employees during jury service, and providing a list of factors judges should use when making the “good cause” determination. The Judicial Council appears to have had limited success convincing the legislature to implement its recommendations. In 2002, California trial courts adopted a one-day/one-trial system to lessen the burden of service on jurors and the California Supreme Court amended California Rules of Court 701 to strengthen standards for hardship excuses.
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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