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• Senate Bill Introduced to Restore Rights of Injured Servicemembers
  June 25, 2009
  Washington, DC—The legal rights of servicemembers injured by medical negligence would be restored under legislation introduced yesterday in the U.S. Senate.
• Questions about FDA Oversight of Medical Devices Leave Patients Vulnerable
  June 18, 2009
  Washington, DC—Patients’ health and safety should not  be compromised because of the on-going questions surrounding the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and their oversight of medical devices, according to the American Association for Justice (AAJ). 
• AAJ Response to President Obama’s Comments at the AMA
  June 15, 2009
  “It’s clear America’s health care system is in crisis.  Over 40 million people are without health insurance and costs are skyrocketing.  President Obama is right that health care reform is needed now and patient safety should be the top priority.
• Loophole in the Courts Leaves Dangerous Products on the Market; Car Tires and Contact Lens Solution Just Two Examples
  June 4, 2009
  Washington, DC── Over the past year, Bausch & Lomb has quietly settled over 600 contact solution lawsuits, with more cases still pending.  The contact solution was reported to cause fungus infections, blinding many patients that used the solution. 
• Obama Memo on Complete Immunity Preemption Makes Clear Rule of Law Prevails Over Rule of Politics
  May 20, 2009
  WASHINGTON, DC—“On behalf of the thousands of people whose cases have been affected by complete immunity preemption, we are heartened by the Presidential Memo released today.
• Chinese Drywall Highlights Hurdles to Holding Foreign Producers Responsible for their Products
  May 19, 2009
  Washington, DC–Chris Whitfield is just one of the families who lost his home to Hurricane Katrina in Louisiana’s St. Bernard Parish. Just a few years later, his family now faces another uncertain future upon finding Chinese drywall in their new Picayune, Mississippi home.  The drywall is corroding his appliances, and causing an egg-like smell that he has no idea what effect it will have on his families’ health or home. 
• Servicemembers Injured By Medical Negligence Step Closer to Receiving Justice
  May 19, 2009
  Washington, DC ─  Military men and women injured by medical negligence will be a step closer to having their legal rights restored, as the House Commercial and Administrative Law Subcommittee is today expected to approve the Carmelo Rodriguez Military Medical Accountability Act (H.R. 1478).  Sponsored by Rep. Maurice D. Hinchey (D-NY), the bill restores the protections of the civil justice system to the men and women of our armed forces.
• Hearing Highlights Victims' Nightmares with Medical Devices
  May 12, 2009
  Washington, DC—Two years ago 35-year-old Bridget Robb awoke from a sound sleep by what she describes as the feeling of  “cannons repeatedly being shot at her chest at close range,” followed by a strong electrical current racing through her body.  The episode was not a dream, but a nightmare because the lead to Bridget’s defibrillator fractured, sending 31 dangerous shocks to her heart and throughout her body.
• AAJ: New Roof Crush Regulation a Good Start
  April 30, 2009
  Washington, DC – Today’s announcement by the U.S. Department of Transportation requiring vehicle roofs to withstand three times the weight for vehicles weighing up to 6,000 pounds is a good start, but does not go far enough to protect consumers, according to the American Association for Justice (AAJ). The roof crush standard addresses the safety of vehicles’ roofs to withstand pressure when involved in rollover accidents.
• Poll: Americans Oppose Forced Arbitration, Demand Corporations Be Held Accountable
  April 29, 2009
  Washington, DC – Americans widely oppose corporations using mandatory binding arbitration clauses in the fine print of consumer and employment contracts, according to national polling of likely voters conducted by Lake Research Partners and available here.
• Removing Speed Bumps to Consumer Safety on the Road
  April 28, 2009
  Washington, DC─ Today, as lawmakers focus on the nation’s ailing transportation system, Congress must strengthen its commitment to reducing highway fatalities and injuries by focusing on enhancing critical safety measures for the commercial vehicle industry, according to the American Association for Justice (AAJ). 
• AAJ: Transportation Agencies Need to Quickly Enact Safety Standards
  April 23, 2009
  Washington, DC—The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) recently concluded driver fatigue, and the lack of federal safety standards protecting passengers on buses, contributed to the death and severity of the injuries sustained in the 2008 Utah bus rollover which killed nine and injured 43.  In response, the American Association for Justice (AAJ) is calling on transportation regulators to review pending pre-Obama administration regulations and open new rulemaking proceedings to enhance commercial transportation safety measures for both trucks and buses. 
• FDA "Internal Meeting" on Devices Shows Patient Safety at Risk
  April 22, 2009
  Washington, DC—A report in The New York Times this morning indicating the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is holding a rare “all-hands meeting” to discuss strategic issues in the medical device division of the agency is a further indication that safety approval of medical devices has been compromised, putting patients’ health and safety at risk according to the American Association for Justice (AAJ).
• AAJ Calls on New FRA Administrator to Address Rules Limiting Rights of Consumers
  April 21, 2009
  Washington, DC – In response to the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee’s nomination hearing of Joseph Szabo as the new administrator to lead the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), the American Association for Justice (AAJ) calls on the agency to review Bush administration regulations that weaken safety protections for consumers injured in railroad accidents. 
• AAJ Statement On Insurance Industry 2008 Financials
  April 9, 2009
  Washington, DC–Today, the insurance industry reported a profit of $2.4 billion in 2008, a decrease from $61.9 billion in the prior year.
• AAJ Calls on New NHTSA Chief to Address Roof Crush Standard
  April 9, 2009
  Washington, DC–In response to the Obama administration naming Charles Hurley as the new administrator to head the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the American Association for Justice (AAJ) calls on the agency to quickly address the roof crush standard and ensure consumers have access to the courts when they have been harmed.
• Statement from American Association for Justice CEO Jon Haber
  April 7, 2009
  Washington, DC--Following is a statement from American Association for Justice (AAJ) CEO Jon Haber regarding his decision to depart AAJ.
• What Do A Former Major League Umpire, A Kindergartner, and A Former Quality Assurance Tech for the Medical Device Industry Have in Common?
  March 30, 2009
  Washington, DC—On Tuesday, March 31, 2009, victims harmed by dangerous medical devices and their families will be in Washington, DC, to meet with members of Congress about The Medical Device Safety Act (MDSA), legislation that would restore the right of thousands of Americans who have suffered or even died because of defective medical devices, like heart defibrillators, artificial valves, and prosthetic knees and hips, to seek justice through the civil justice system. 
• Carmelo Rodriguez Military Medical Accountability Act Will Restore Rights of Servicemembers Injured By Medical Negligence
  March 23, 2009

  Washington, DC ─ After Marine Sgt. Carmelo Rodriguez served his country with honor for nearly a decade, including a tour of duty in Iraq, he lost his life not on the battlefield, but as a result of preventable medical negligence.  While most Americans could pursue justice through our courts, servicemembers like Rodriguez and his family do not have this same right.  The Carmelo Rodriguez Military Medical Accountability Act (H.R. 1478), introduced by Rep. Maurice D. Hinchey (D-NY), would restore the protections of the civil justice system to the men and women of our armed forces.

• OMB Process Should Embrace Supreme Court’s Wyeth Decision;
  March 16, 2009
  
  Washington, DC – The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) should embody the principles stated in the U.S. Supreme Court’s majority decision in Wyeth v. Levine in its regulatory review process, according to comments submitted today to the agency by the American Association for Justice (AAJ).  
• AstraZeneca Hides Behind Court Secrecy to Leave Consumers in the Dark
  March 12, 2009

  Washington, DC—The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) might be denied access to vital information regarding the safety of the drug Seroquel, manufactured by AstraZeneca, because of court documents the company refuses to make public. The FDA advisory panel meeting scheduled for April 8 is set to determine if AstraZeneca can market Seroquel XR to patients for major depression and anxiety disorders, extending the market share to approximately 20 million more patients.  The drug is currently approved for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

• Real Life David v. Goliath: Parents of Injured Five-Year-Old Girl v. Medical Device Manufacturers
  March 5, 2009

  Washington, DC—Patients, including parents of a five-year-old girl that suffered injuries from a defective medical device, will be able to hold manufacturers accountable in state courts through new legislation introduced today, according to the American Association for Justice.

• Most Vulnerable Americans Protected By Fairness in Nursing Home Arbitration Act
  March 5, 2009

  Washington, DC—The most vulnerable Americans and their families will no longer be forced to give up their legal rights and sign one-sided mandatory binding arbitration clauses under new legislation introduced in the U.S. Senate. 

• Statement on Supreme Court Decision in favor of Diana Levine
  March 4, 2009

  Washington, DC—The U.S. Supreme Court in a 6-3 decision upheld a Vermont jury’s decision that Diana Levine, the plaintiff in the Supreme Court case Wyeth v. Levine could hold the drug manufacturer accountable for the injuries she suffered—which included the loss of her arm—after taking one of Wyeth’s medicines.

• Consumers No Longer Forced to Sign Away Their Rights Under Arbitration Fairness Act
  February 12, 2009

  Washington, DC – Countless Americans will no longer be forced to give up their legal rights and enter unfair arbitration agreements under bipartisan legislation introduced today in the U.S. House.

• New Analysis Rejects "Medical Liability = Fleeing Docs" Myth
  February 5, 2009

  Washington, DC – Insurance companies and tort reform groups have sidetracked countless health care debates via the “medical liability” red herring.  But an analysis of new American Medical Association data rejects the myth that tort reform attracts more doctors, adding to a growing body of research that proves physicians are not fleeing the profession because of medical liability.

• AAJ Calls on Congress to Restore Consumer Rights Undone by Midnight Regulations
  February 4, 2009

  Washington, DC— The Bush administration tried to eliminate consumers' right to civil justice in some last minute regulations, and proposed even broader restrictions to civil justice in proposed regulations, according to the American Association for Justice (AAJ).  As pending regulations with anti-consumer language are under review by the Obama administration, AAJ calls on Congress to help restore consumers' access to the courts to hold wrongdoers accountable.

• FDA Globalization Act Will Help Ensure Greater Safety in Nation’s Food and Drug Supply
  January 29, 2009

  Washington, DC—Congressman John Dingell’s plan to update the Food and Drug Administration would help ensure the safety of the nation’s food, drugs, medical devices and cosmetics and help restore confidence in the safety of the nation’s products, according to the American Association for Justice.

• Ledbetter Act Delivers Justice for Working Americans, Says AAJ
  January 29, 2009

  Washington, DC— American Association for Justice President Les Weisbrod issued the following statement on the signing of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act:

• Immediate Stay Memo Helps People Like Kimberly Gueldenzoph
  January 21, 2009

  Washington, DC – If you tried to guess how Kimberly Gueldenzoph from Lambertville, Michigan, was changed yesterday, it would be doubtful you would guess the immediate stay memorandum issued by President Obama’s Chief of Staff.  But that is exactly the reason. 

• Dismissal of Medtronic Defibrillator Cases Leaves Thousands Injured without Justice
  January 15, 2009

  Washington, DC— Last week’s dismissal of cases involving a recalled, faulty medical device leaves thousands of people injured and unable to get justice, according to the American Association for Justice (AAJ).  AAJ calls on Congress to act swiftly in light of U.S. District Judge Richard Kyle’s opinion which cites Congressional action as the only way for those injured to receive justice.

• Midnight Regulation Gives Negligent Corporations Immunity from Railroad Accidents
  January 13, 2009

  Washington, DC—The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration’s (PHMSA) last-minute regulation deals a shocking blow to consumers injured by railroads that transport hazardous materials, according to the American Association for Justice (AAJ).   The final rule, designed to enhance crashworthiness of rail tank cars for transportation of dangerous materials, includes language that would preempt state tort law claims.

• AAJ Sends Obama Team Strategies to Reverse Bush "Complete Immunity" Regulations
  January 12, 2009

  Washington, DC—– Today the American Association for Justice (AAJ) is asking the Obama administration to reverse Bush-era regulations that have given complete immunity to negligent corporations and “preempted” the right of Americans to hold wrongdoers accountable through the civil justice system. 

• U.S. Chamber Hypocrisy Reaches Historic Heights
  January 7, 2009

  Washington, DC—Exactly one year ago at its annual “State of American Business” event, U.S. Chamber President and CEO Tom Donohue predicted that the economy would “dodge the bullet” of a recession, strenuously objected to “a bailout of investors who made the wrong bet,” and complained that American business was being strangled by too much regulation and oversight.  What a difference a year makes.

• Midnight Regulation Watch: Bush Administration Gives Gift that Keeps on Giving—Corporate Immunity for Negligence
  December 16, 2008

  Washington, DC—The American Association for Justice (AAJ) continues to watch for last minute regulations that could weaken consumer safety protections and limit the ability to hold manufacturers responsible for defective and harmful products.   Regulations published in the Federal Register this week could have 30 days to take effect before Bush leaves office on January 20, 2009.

• ATRA's "Judicial Hellholes" Early Gift for Corporate CEOs
  December 16, 2008

  Washington, DC−The American Tort Reform Association’s "judicial hellholes" is an early holiday present for its tobacco and insurance financers.   The recycled annual report, widely debunked and ridiculed in past years, is funded by negligent corporations and industries to undermine the civil justice system and the rights of everyday Americans.

• AAJ Lauds U.S. Supreme Court’s Decision to Uphold Consumers’ Rights in State Courts
  December 15, 2008

  Washington, DC—The American Association for Justice (AAJ) today lauded a decision by the U.S. Supreme Court in Altria v. Good to deny immunity for cigarette manufacturers who violate state consumer protection laws with false claims of lowered tar and nicotine.

• U.S. Chamber "Lawsuit Abuse" Campaign Bankrolled By Negligent Corporations
  December 8, 2008

  Washington, DC—U.S. Chamber today spoke of “faceless corporations” that have apparently been victimized by so-called “abusive suits.”  In reality, they are not so faceless: U.S. Chamber’s own financial disclosures reveal that its Institute for Legal Reform is funded by corporations notorious for their negligence and misconduct.

• AAJ Challenges NHTSA's School Bus Safety Rule; Anticipates Long-Delayed Roof Crush Standard Next Week
  December 4, 2008

  Washington, DC — A final rule put forth by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) doesn’t go far enough to curb injuries associated with the nearly 2,000 school bus accidents each year, according to the American Association for Justice (AAJ).  The association will file a petition for reconsideration with NHTSA tomorrow, challenging the agency’s final rule on school bus safety.

• NHTSA Effort to Strengthen Safety of Motorcycle Helmets Spoiled by Preemption Language
  December 1, 2008

  Washington, DC— In an effort to strengthen the safety of motorcycle helmets, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) proposed rule on motorcycle helmets still gives corporations a “get out of jail free” pass, according to comments submitted to the agency today by the American Association for Justice (AAJ).

• Bush Administration Uses Midnight Regulations to Give Railroads Corporate Immunity Handout
  December 1, 2008

  Washington, DC— Confirming American Association for Justice’s concern about midnight regulations, the Bush Administration rammed through a final rule that could give railroad corporations complete immunity from lawsuits.

• Consumer Justice Groups File Petition Challenging NHTSA's Seating Position Rule;
  November 25, 2008

  Washington, DC— In the first step towards filing a legal challenge to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) final rule on designated seating positions, the American Association for Justice (AAJ), joined by Consumers for Auto Reliability and Safety, New York State Trial Lawyers Association, Pennsylvania  Association for Justice, Washington State Trial Lawyers Association, the Association of Trial Lawyers of America-New Jersey, and Consumer Attorneys of California filed a Petition for Reconsideration with NHTSA on language included in the final rule that would attempt to diminish consumers’ legal right to hold vehicle manufacturers accountable through the civil justice system.

• Midnight Regulations Could Be “Nightmare” for Consumers; AAJ Keeping Eye on 21 Regulations that Could Limit Consumers’ Safety
  November 20, 2008 Washington, DC—With the deadline approaching for regulations to have 60 days to go into effect before President Bush leaves office, the American Association for Justice (AAJ) will be keeping an eye out for 21 possible regulations that have yet to be finalized that could prove devastating to consumers’ safety and their right to hold corporations accountable for producing dangerous products.
• Consumer Advocates Release “Ten Worst Toys” List; Foreign Manufacturers Produce Overwhelming Majority of CPSC’s Recalled Products in 2008, according to AAJ Analysis
  November 18, 2008

  Attached is W.A.T.C.H.’s (World Against Toys Causing Harm) annual “Ten Worst Toys” list, released today at a press event in Boston.  W.A.T.C.H. is made up of American Association for Justice (AAJ) members Edward and James Swartz.  According to a brief analysis prepared by AAJ, a large majority of products—85 percent— recalled so far this year by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) were produced in foreign countries. 

• NHTSA’s Proposed Motorcycle Brake System Rule Stops Consumers Legal Right to Justice System
  November 17, 2008

  Washington, DC—In a rule designed to give consumers an updated standard for motorcycle brakes, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) attempts to diminish consumers’ legal right to hold manufacturers accountable through the civil justice system, according to comments filed by the American Association for Justice (AAJ) today

• Foreign Manufacturers of Dangerous Goods Enjoy Favorable Status in US Markets; Society Pays Heavy Price
  November 13, 2008

  Washington, DC—Foreign manufacturers easily evade responsibility and accountability for producing hazardous products which can cost consumers and other third parties billions of dollars for a single product sold in the United States according to new analyses to be released Friday.

• Insurance Company Tactics Add to Americans' Financial Hardships
  November 12, 2008

  Washington, DC—Insurers are increasingly using tough tactics against cash-strapped consumers to boost profits, according to a new report that investigates claims data, policies, and news accounts.
  

• NHTSA Once Again Misses the Mark On Securing Child Passengers
  November 12, 2008

  Washington, DC—NHTSA’s new proposed rule does nothing to protect children from being injured in car crashes according to the American Association for Justice (AAJ.)  AAJ filed comments today advising National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to remove language stating that its rule could potentially preempt state law.

• Media Advisory—Hazardous Products: Accountability, Expenses Highlight Problems with Dangerous and Foreign Products
  November 11, 2008

  New Data Illustrates Enormous Costs Associated with Dangerous Products
  When:  Friday, November 14, 2008, 9 am – 2 pm (lunch provided)
  Where:  American University Washington College of Law
                 4801 Massachusetts Ave., NW, Room 603
  What:   Release of research, panel discussion
  

• Federal Agency Gives Free Ride to Negligent Railroad Corporations
  November 10, 2008

  Washington, DC—In a proposed rule requiring railroads to report more information about train accidents and injuries the agency responsible for promoting safe rail transportation has once again undercut consumer health and safety by granting negligent railroad companies immunity from liability. 

• AAJ Statement on Wyeth v. Levine Supreme Court Case
  November 3, 2008

  Washington, DC—The following is a statement from American Association for Justice President Les Weisbrod:

• FDA’s “BPA” Assessment Shows Agency Alone Cannot Protect Consumers;
  October 31, 2008

  Washington, DC—This week’s finding that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ignored scientific evidence in the decision to say bisphenol A (BPA) is safe shows exactly why we need a strong civil justice system—to complement the agency’s work to protect consumers from hazardous products, according to the American Association for Justice (AAJ). 

• Statement from AAJ President Les Weisbrod on Passing of Fred Baron
  October 31, 2008

  It is with great personal sadness that I must inform you that my neighbor, friend, mentor, and ATLA past president Fred Baron passed away yesterday after a valiant struggle with cancer at the all too young age of 61. 
  

• Bush Administration Forced FDA To Make Complete Immunity for Negligent Corporations a Top Priority
  October 29, 2008

  Washington, DC—The Bush Administration’s efforts to ignore and override the objections of career Food and Drug Administration (FDA) staff to include complete immunity preemption in FDA regulations is further confirmed in a report released today by the U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.  American Association for Justice (AAJ) released a comprehensive report this month with similar findings, detailing the Bush regulatory strategy called preemption.

• U.S. Chamber’s Donohue Brags About Filing Lawsuits at “Legal Reform Summit”
  October 29, 2008

  Washington, DC— U.S. Chamber President and CEO Tom Donohue today bragged about the number of lawsuits the corporate lobby files every year to pursue its own narrow agenda.  Never shy about its hypocrisy, Donohue made the comments at U.S. Chamber’s own conference dedicated to eliminating the legal system for everyday Americans.

• U.S. Chamber Rejects Reality, Blames Lawsuits for Self-Inflicted Financial Meltdown
  October 24, 2008

  Washington, DC—U.S. Chamber now claims "lawsuit abuse" led to the current economic crisis, ignoring their own storied history of pushing less oversight, regulation and accountability on behalf of corporate wrongdoers.

• AAJ Calls NHTSA's School Bus Rule 'Hypocritical' in Effort to Ensure Passenger Safety
  October 16, 2008

  Washington, DC—The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) new rule on school bus safety is “hypocritical,” requiring one thing for safety on small school buses, recommending another for large school buses, and then granting blanket immunity from civil justice should any injuries arise, according to the American Association for Justice (AAJ).

• FOIAs Reveal How Bush Administration Made Complete Immunity for Negligent Corporations a Top Priority
  October 15, 2008

  Washington, DC—In a stealth effort coordinated at the highest levels of the Bush administration, multiple federal agencies were repeatedly ordered to usurp state law and undermine consumer protections, according to documents obtained through repeated FOIA requests by the American Association for Justice (AAJ).  The documents released today detail how helping corporations escape accountability for dangerous products has been the administration’s top priority.

• NHTSA’s Seatbelt Rule Straps Consumers’ Legal Rights
  October 8, 2008

  Washington, DC—In a rule designed to give consumers added seatbelt protection, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) today diminished consumers legal right to hold vehicle manufacturers accountable through the civil justice system, according to the American Association for Justice (AAJ). NHTSA’s final rule released today on designated seating positions includes specific language that would preempt state tort law claims related to seatbelt positions.

• NHTSA’s Further Delay on Long-Awaited Roof Crush Standard Unacceptable
  October 2, 2008

  Washington, DC—The nation’s agency dedicated to achieving the highest standards of excellence in motor vehicle and highway safety failed its mission once again by further delaying the final rule on roof crush standards, according to the American Association for Justice (AAJ). 

• U.S. Chamber Created Current Financial Crisis, New Report Says
  September 30, 2008

  Washington, DC—The current financial crisis was caused by U.S. Chamber’s aggressive lobbying to eliminate accountability and oversight, says a new issue brief that also exposes payments from bailed-out AIG to the Washington corporate lobby.

• FDA Shields Drug Companies from Responsibility for Harmful Over-the-Counter Drug Ingredients
  September 17, 2008 Washington, DC—The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has gone beyond its statutory authority by including language in a proposed rule on over-the-counter drug ingredients that would give manufacturers complete immunity from lawsuits, according to comments filed today by the American Association for Justice (AAJ).
• Legislation Eliminates Mandatory Binding Arbitration as a Shield for Negligent Nursing Home Corporations
  September 11, 2008

  Washington, DC—Today, the Senate Judiciary passed the Fairness in Nursing Home Arbitration Act (S.2838), moving Wisconsin resident David Kurth and his family one step closer to getting justice.  David Kurth testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee in June about the tragic death of his father, William F. Kurth who died due to severe neglect of care while in a nursing home facility.  When the Kurth family tried to hold the nursing home corporation accountable they were told that Mrs. Kurth, who was 82 at the time, unknowingly signed an arbitration clause.

• AAJ: FDA Again Sides with Drug Companies
  August 27, 2008

  Washington, DC—Drug and device manufacturers will have immunity from lawsuits even if they fail to update warning labels to include dangerous side effects for pregnant and breast-feeding women if a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) proposed rule is made final.  The American Association for Justice (AAJ) today submitted comments on the new label requirements.

• AAJ on FDA Supplemental Labeling Rule: “Irrational and designed to assist the manufacturers”
  August 21, 2008

  Washington, DC—AAJ President Les Weisbrod, reacting to the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) final rule on supplemental applications for prescription drug and device labels, called the FDA action “irrational and designed to assist the manufacturers.”

• Latest Proposal on Railroad Crossings Has Deadly Consequences
  August 8, 2008

  Washington, DC—The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has proposed a dangerous blanket policy to require yield or stop signs at every railroad crossing in America.

• Highway Safety Agency “Comes to Its Senses” on Immunity for Manufacturers of Children’s Booster Seats
  August 5, 2008

  Washington, DC—Families with young children riding in booster seats will be protected by both federal safety regulation as well as state law, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in a final rule put out today.  The original draft of the NHTSA rule on child booster seats used language to bar families harmed by defective booster seats from bringing suit against the manufacturers. 

• Medical Device Patients Would Be Protected Under New Safety Legislation
  August 1, 2008

  Washington, DC—Bridget Robb, who received 31 unnecessary shocks to her heart by a defective Medtronic defibrillator, would have access to justice under legislation introduced in the U.S. Senate today.

• Corporations Are Hiding Secrets That Could Kill You
  July 31, 2008

  Washington, DC—Americans would be shocked and angered to learn that when they go to the store some of the products they purchase may be hiding dangerous secrets.  When businesses settle unsafe product liability suits in which their products have harmed people, they often demand that individuals agree to keep secret, dangers uncovered through the court system.  This practice is called court secrecy.

• Consumers Guaranteed Right To Hold Corporations Accountable for Hazardous Products
  July 31, 2008

  Washington, DC—Consumers who have been tragically harmed by dangerous products secured their right to hold irresponsible corporations accountable, under legislation expected to pass the House of Representatives this evening.

• Seniors Move Closer to Being Protected From One-Sided Mandatory Arbitration in Long-Term Care
  July 30, 2008

  Washington, DC—Seniors and their families who have been harmed by mandatory arbitration in nursing home contracts have overcame another hurdle in the fight to seek justice from negligent nursing home corporations.

• Latest U.S. Chamber PR Stunt Puts Corporate Greed Over American Families
  July 28, 2008

  Washington, DC—A U.S. Chamber of Commerce front group today announced a multi-million dollar public relations stunt that puts big corporations ahead of American families.

• U.S. Chamber Shields CEOs at Expense of Shareholders, Economy
  July 24, 2008

  Washington, DC—The following is a statement from American Association for Justice CEO Jon Haber in response to a new U.S. Chamber of Commerce report on securities class-actions.
  

• Trial Attorneys Share Stories of Selflessness & Service in Philadelphia
  July 22, 2008

  Washington, DC—The American Association for Justice (AAJ) gathered in Philadelphia, PA, the birthplace of America, last week to recognize extraordinary contributions to the civil justice system. The five-day convention culminated with an awards ceremony to honor individuals who have worked to protect the constitutional right of all Americans to a trial by jury.

• Prominent Advocates for Justice to Lead National Trial Bar
  July 16, 2008

  Washington, DC—Members of the world's largest trial bar elected new executive officers to a one-year term during the American Association for Justice (AAJ) annual convention in Philadelphia, PA.

• American Association for Justice Announces Les Weisbrod as President for 2008-2009
  July 16, 2008

  Washington, DC—During the American Association for Justice (AAJ) annual convention, the world's largest trial bar announced Les Weisbrod as President for 2008-2009. As a top civil justice attorney, Weisbrod will lead the organization's fight to ensure every American can seek justice through our courts.

• Allstate Ranks as Worst Insurer for Consumers
  July 9, 2008

  Washington, DC—Allstate ranks as the worst insurer for consumers, according to a comprehensive investigation of thousands of legal documents and financial filings.

• Leading Scholars Find Pacific Research Claims "Highly Dubious"
  July 2, 2008

  Washington, DC—An analysis by three leading academics has found Pacific Research Institute's (PRI) "tort tax" claims are "without scientific merit and present a very misleading picture of the American tort system and its costs."

• NHTSA Ordered to Go Back to the Drawing Board on Roof Crush Rule
  July 1, 2008

  Washington, DC—Congress ordered the National Highway and Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) to go back to the drawing board to improve a weak roof crush standard that endangers rollover accident victims and attempts to give negligent car manufacturers complete immunity.

• Statement from AAJ President Kathleen Flynn Peterson on Exxon v. Baker Supreme Court Decision
  June 25, 2008

  Washington, DC—"Today's Supreme Court decision reaffirms that judges and juries in maritime cases may hold wrongdoers accountable for egregious misconduct by permitting significant punitive damages to punish the company and deter its reoccurrence."

• AAJ Praises U.S. Supreme Court Decision Upholding Fundamental Right of Each Person to Seek Justice in the Courtroom
  June 12, 2008

  Washington, DC—In Taylor v. Sturgell, No. 07-371, a unanimous Supreme Court sided with the American Association for Justice’s (AAJ) amicus argument upholding the fundamental right of each person to seek justice in court.

• Preemption Dangers Highlighted by NY Times' "Researchers Fail to Reveal Full Drug Pay"
  June 10, 2008

  Washington, DC—A June 8 New York Times front-page article reported that world-renowned researchers failed to disclose consulting fees from drug companies, bolstering arguments against preemption of state law and giving corporations total immunity from all lawsuits.

• Negligent Nursing Home Corporations Hide Behind Mandatory Arbitration
  June 10, 2008

  Washington, DC—Recent news stories have highlighted the problems with mandatory binding arbitration in credit card contracts but even more egregious is the increasing use of mandatory arbitration in nursing home contracts. These clauses force families to take their case to an arbitrator even when a loved one is seriously injured or dies.

• Senators Discourage Preemption in Roof Crush Standards
  June 4, 2008

  Washington, DC—During a subcommittee hearing today, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration was blasted for issuing a rule that fails to protect drivers and passengers from being injured in a rollover crash.

• Vioxx Reversal Illustrates the Danger of Federal Preemption
  May 29, 2008

  Washington, DC—Today's ruling overturning a jury’s verdict against Merck & Co., the makers of withdrawn painkiller Vioxx, shows how harmful federal preemption is to victims who are harmed by negligent drug companies.

• Federal Rules Give Railroads Complete Immunity
  May 29, 2008

  Washington, DC—New rules issued by the Federal Railroad Administration and Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration would give negligent corporations complete immunity from lawsuits in railroad injury cases, according to testimony given today before the agencies.

• VA Rule is A Victory for Veterans Rights
  May 22, 2008

  Washington, DC—Today, the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) issued a final rule removing proposed red tape, which would have made it much tougher for veterans to get a lawyer. The VA clarified the rule stating, "with respect to attorneys, that a law degree, bar membership in good standing, and CLE in veteran’s benefits law and procedure is the best method to fulfill congressional intent."

• New Poll: Americans Say “No Thanks” To Binding Arbitration
  May 19, 2008

  Washington, DC—Americans generally disapprove of binding arbitration provisions in consumer contracts as an alternative to civil legal proceedings involving a judge or jury, according to a recent national poll by survey firm Peter D. Hart Research Associates Inc.

• AAJ on Robert Bork Settling Slip-And-Fall Lawsuit
  May 9, 2008

  Washington, DC—According to the Associated Press, "One-time U.S. Supreme Court nominee Robert H. Bork has settled a lawsuit against the Yale Club after he fell stepping onto a platform to speak." The terms of the deal are confidential. Bork had sued for $1 million, including punitive damages.

• Manhattan Institute's Latest Industry-Funded Research: "Laughable"
  May 7, 2008

  Washington, DC – The following is a statement from American Association for Justice CEO Jon Haber: "Manhattan Institute's latest attack on the civil justice system follows the mold of its previous reports: fictitious, imaginative and laughable

• Manhattan Institute's Latest Industry-Funded Research: "Laughable"
  May 7, 2008

  Washington, DC—The following is a statement from American Association for Justice CEO Jon Haber: "Manhattan Institute's latest attack on the civil justice system follows the mold of its previous reports: fictitious, imaginative and laughable.  Read the release
  

• Congressional Legislation Targets Foreign Producers Who Skirt U.S. Law
  May 1, 2008

  Washington, DC—Legislation being considered today by the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Law would make it easier to hold foreign manufacturers accountable when their products injure or even kill Americans.

• Amaya Smith Joins AAJ Communications Team as Press Secretary
  April 28, 2008

  Washington, DC—The American Association for Justice (AAJ) today announced the addition of Amaya Smith as Press Secretary.  Amaya will play a key role in AAJ’s effort to educate the media and public on the increasingly important role of our nation’s civil justice system in the face of new corporate attacks on Americans’ rights.

• AAJ’s Letter to Today Show on Dr. Synderman’s Comments Attacking the Civil Justice System
  April 24, 2008

  Washington, DC—The Today Show’s Health segment on April 24, 2008 with Matt Lauer and Dr. Nancy Synderman, Dr. Synderman attacked our civil justice system by calling for tort reform in order to increase life expectancy. The connection between the two issues is haphazard at best and also mimics attacks by big business pharmaceutical companies.

• Product Defects To Be Disclosed Under House Anti-Secrecy Bill
  April 23, 2008

  Washington, DC—Companies would be compelled to disclose product defects, under legislation introduced today. The Sunshine in Litigation Act, introduced by U.S. Rep. Robert Wexler (D-FL) and U.S. Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), would make settling lawsuits with secrecy agreements more difficult, ensuring that life saving information is not kept hidden.

• AAJ: U.S. Chamber’s Phony “Rankings” Serve Extreme Corporate Agenda
  April 22, 2008

  Washington, DC—Tomorrow the U.S. Chamber of Commerce will release an updated “study” that supposedly ranks the best and worst state legal systems in America. The “study” is based on a survey of corporate defense lawyers from multi-million dollar corporations who are paid to avoid accountability for their misconduct and negligence.

• AAJ: U.S. Chamber “Study” Part of Extreme Corporate Agenda to Destroy Civil Justice System
  April 22, 2008

  Washington, DC—Tomorrow the U.S. Chamber of Commerce will release an updated “study” that supposedly ranks the best and worst state legal systems in America.  The “study” is based on a survey of corporate defense lawyers from multi-million dollar corporations who are paid to avoid accountability for their misconduct and negligence.

• AAJ Demands FDA Protect Patients Instead of Industry Marketers
  April 21, 2008

  Washington, DC—New Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidance will put patients at risk from off-label uses of drugs and medical devices, said the American Association for Justice in comments sent today to the agency.

• AAJ Statement on President’s Preemption / Climate Change Comments
  April 16, 2008

  Washington, DC—This afternoon President George W. Bush made the following comments in his address about climate change.

• AAJ Announces Support of Legislation to Stop Abusive Nursing Home Practices
  April 10, 2008

  Washington, DC—Today, American Association for Justice announces support of legislation to stop abusive corporate practices that put nursing home residents at risk. The Fairness in Nursing Home Arbitration Act will ensure that the decision to arbitrate be made voluntarily and after the dispute has arisen. With this legislation, corporations will not be able to manipulate the arbitration system in their favor and at the expense of nursing home residents and their families.

• AAJ: FDA Warning to Glaxo Highlights Dangers of Preemption
  April 9, 2008

  Washington, DC—As reported in today's Wall Street Journal, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a serious warning to GlaxoSmithKline after discovering the drugmaker did not inform the agency about clinical trials it was conducting on the diabetes drug Avandia between 2001 and 2007.

• AAJ: Insurance Companies Taking In More, Handing Back Less
  April 9, 2008

  Washington, DC—Today, the Insurance Information Institute announced a near-record $61.9 billion 2007 profit for the industry. Insurance companies have made an unprecedented $169 billion profit since Hurricane Katrina.

• Arbitration Fairness Act Protects Americans From Abusive Corporate Practices
  April 2, 2008

  Washington, DC—The following is a statement from American Association for Justice CEO Jon Haber on the Arbitration Fairness Act of 2007 (H.R. 3010 / S.1782) and U.S. Chamber's latest attempts to avoid corporate accountability while denying people justice through the legal system.

• AAJ Demands NHTSA Remove Preemption from Roof Crush Rules
  March 27, 2008

  Washington, DC—American Association for Justice (AAJ) today sent comments to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) demanding the agency remove the roof crush resistance rule’s preemption language.

• AAJ: Latest Medtronic Device Failure Highlights Dangers of Preemption
  March 19, 2008

  Washington, DC—A new Food and Drug Administration (FDA) public health notification shows a higher death rate after five years among patients treated for abdominal aortic aneurysm with Medtronic Inc.’s Aneu-Rx stent-graft system than among those treated through conventional surgery.

• AAJ Urges FDA to put Patient Safety First
  March 17, 2008

  Washington, DC—The American Association for Justice today sent comments to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) concerning a proposed rule that would give immunity to drug companies for failing to warn patients of potential drug hazards.

• PRI's Corporate-Funded Tort Reform Study Proves Tort Reform Doesn't Work
  March 12, 2008

  Washington, DC—Pacific Research Institute's (PRI) new study proves what independent experts have said all along: "tort reform" does not work. PRI's own rankings show there is no correlation between tort reform and "costs."

• Statement From AAJ CEO Jon Haber on Warner-Lambert v. Kent Decision
  March 3, 2008

  Washington, DC—Today, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a one-line decision affirming the lower court’s ruling in Warner-Lambert v. Kent. This decision will allow certain Michigan residents to hold drug manufacturers accountable for their negligence. This decision does not apply broadly to all state tort claims.

• Statement From AAJ CEO Jon Haber
  March 3, 2008

  Washington, DC—“We appreciate the honesty of ATRA spokesman Darren McKinney."

• AAJ Seeks Legislative Action to Stop Court Secrecy
  March 3, 2008

  Washington, DC—The Senate Judiciary Committee passed S. 2449, the Sunshine in Litigation Act, out of committee today. The bill seeks to restore public accountability in the judicial system by restricting court secrecy on matters that affect public health and safety. Invoked in countless legal settlements, secrecy provisions prevent people from finding out about dangerous products.

• Statement From AAJ CEO Jon Haber
  February 25, 2008

  Washington, DC—“Today, the U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments in a case about a unique Michigan law."

• Statement From AAJ CEO Jon Haber On Riegel v. Medtronic, Inc. Supreme Court Decision
  February 20, 2008

  Washington, DC—“Today’s Supreme Court decision in Riegel v. Medtronic limits the rights of people to receive justice through the legal system when they are injured by the negligence or misconduct of others. This decision should be narrowly viewed as applying only to certain medical device cases and should not serve as precedent for cases involving drugs and other consumer products.

• AAJ Statement On Latest Robert Novak Column
  February 19, 2008

  Washington, DC—Contrary to Robert Novak’s 2/18/08 column, the trial bar did not lobby on the wiretapping bill or request support of either side.  Mr. Novak’s lack of fact checking cheapens the debate over our national security.

• Latest News on H.R. 3010, the Arbitration Fairness Act
  February 13, 2008

  Washington, DC—This week before the House Education and Labor’s Health, Employment, Labor and Pensions Subcommittee, the issue of mandatory pre-dispute arbitration clauses in employment contracts was front and center during its hearing on “Protecting American Employees from Workplace Discrimination.”

• AAJ Statement On Upcoming ATRA White Paper Propaganda
  February 11, 2008

  Washington, DC—The American Tort Reform Association (ATRA) is set to release a new white paper tomorrow that will undoubtedly attempt to distort the truth and push the agenda of giant corporate CEOs who fund this front group.

• AAJ Statement On Upcoming ATRA White Paper Propaganda
  February 11, 2008

  Washington, DC—The American Tort Reform Association (ATRA) is set to release a new white paper tomorrow that will undoubtedly attempt to distort the truth and push the agenda of giant corporate CEOs who fund this front group.

• Statement by AAJ CEO Jon Haber on 2008 State of the Union Address
  January 28, 2008

  Washington, DC—“Tonight President Bush will deliver his final State of the Union as he presides over a country that labors under a weak economy. It’s an economy of hard choices that forces Americans to work harder for less, depletes their savings just so they can pay for gas, and reduces their ability to afford mortgages as the housing market continues to tank."

• Statement From AAJ CEO Jon Haber On Riegel v. Medtronic, Inc. Supreme Court Decision
  January 20, 2008

  Washington, DC—“Today’s Supreme Court decision in Riegel v. Medtronic limits the rights of people to receive justice through the legal system when they are injured by the negligence or misconduct of others. This decision should be narrowly viewed as applying only to certain medical device cases and should not serve as precedent for cases involving drugs and other consumer products."

• AAJ Statement On Latest Robert Novak Column
  January 19, 2008

  Washington, DC—Contrary to Robert Novak’s 2/18/08 column, the trial bar did not lobby on the wiretapping bill or request support of either side.  Mr. Novak’s lack of fact checking cheapens the debate over our national security.

• AAJ Demands FDA Withdraw Rule Allowing Drug Companies to Claim Immunity for Failing to Warn Patients of Potential Drug Hazards
  January 16, 2008

  Washington, DC—The American Association for Justice (AAJ) today demanded the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) withdraw a proposed rule that would allow drug companies to claim immunity for failing to warn patients of potential drug hazards.

• AAJ Responds to Supreme Court Decision
  January 15, 2008

  Washington, DC—“AAJ is encouraged by the narrowness of the Court’s decision.  The Court clearly stated that defrauded investors still have an avenue for recourse under this country’s securities laws.  It was very careful to make the distinction between secondary actors involved in the financial spheres, as opposed to the goods and services industry."

• Cecelia Prewett Joins American Association for Justice in Key Role
  January 14, 2008

  Washington, DC—The American Association for Justice (AAJ) has appointed Cecelia Prewett to the newly created position of Vice President, Strategic Communications. Prewett will manage the day-to-day operations of the War Room and will be AAJ’s chief communications strategist.

• Statement from AAJ President Kathleen Flynn Peterson on ATRA’s Latest Attack on Civil Justice Attorneys
  January 10, 2008 Washington, DC—The American Tort Reform Association’s (ATRA) and the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest’s (CMPI) so-called study on legal websites is laughable at best.  ATRA and CMPI should be ashamed to issue a report whose dubious methodology consists of nothing but Google searches.

• Statement by Kathleen Flynn Peterson
  January 8, 2008

  Washington, DC—The Defense Department Inspector General’s action today declining to investigate the case of former Halliburton/KBR employee Jamie Leigh Jones smacks of a conspiracy to keep the truth locked away in a proverbial shipping container—just as she was.
  

• Illinois Damage Caps Declared Unconstitutional
  November 14, 2007

  Washington, DC—On November 13th, Cook County Circuit Court Judge Diane J. Larsen declared the 2005 Illinois medical malpractice “reform” statute, which capped noneconomic damages, violated the Illinois Constitution. The ruling came in the case of Lebron v. Gottlieb Memorial Hospital, which had been designated as the lead case for challenges to the law.

• Congress: Adopt Tough Measures to Stop Corporations From Evading Accountability for Unsafe Foreign Toys, AAJ Urges
  November 14, 2007

  Washington, DC—More than 13 million foreign-manufactured toys have been recalled in the past two months, with the latest the Chinese-manufactured “Aqua-Dots,” recalled last week because it contains a chemical that converts into the date rape drug GHB when ingested.

• Illinois Damage Caps Declared Unconstitutional
  November 13, 2007

  Washington, DC—On November 13th, Cook County Circuit Court Judge Diane J. Larsen declared the 2005 Illinois medical malpractice “reform” statute, which capped noneconomic damages, violated the Illinois Constitution.

• Significant Win For Trial Attorneys
  November 13, 2007 Washington, DC—A 2005 Illinois law establishing caps on medical malpractice awards caps was declared unconstitutional on November 13th. 

• Merck Settles with Victims of Deadly Drug Vioxx
  November 9, 2007

  Washington, DC—American Association for Justice (AAJ) CEO Jon Haber made the following statement today, following the announcement that an agreement between drugmaker Merck and attorneys for thousands of Vioxx victims has been reached.

• "Can’t Protect the Safety of Children" (CPSC) Chair Nancy Nord Should Resign
  November 8, 2007

  Washington, DC—Failing to protect the safety and health of America’s children, Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) Chair Nancy Nord should immediately resign, the American Association for Justice said today.

• Administration Assault on Railroad Safety Must End, AAJ Declares
  November 5, 2007

  Washington, DC — The American Association for Justice (AAJ) today declared that the Bush Administration must end its effort to prohibit railway accident victims from pursuing legal action against railroad companies responsible for their injury or death. The latest proposed federal railroad safety regulations continues an unprecedented assault on state safety standards, directly challenging Congressional intent and jeopardizing public safety and victims’ access to justice.

• Binding Mandatory Arbitration Victim Deborah Williams and others to testify at hearing on Arbitration Fairness Act of 2007
  October 24, 2007

  Washington, DC—When Annapolis couple Deborah Williams and Richard Welshans invested more than $1 million in 2004 into starting up their Coffee Beanery franchise coffee shop, buried deep in contract with the Michigan corporation was a clause that all disputes would be settled by “Binding Mandatory Arbitration” a non-judicial but legally binding process that robs individuals of their Seventh Amendment right to settle disputes in a court of law.

• AAJ Demands FRA Withdraw Preemption Language from New Railroad Safety Regulation
  October 1, 2007

  Washington, DC—The American Association for Justice (AAJ) today demanded the Bush Administration halt its effort to prohibit railway accident victims from pursuing legal action against railroad companies responsible for their injury or death.

• New Report Says “Health Courts” Bureaucracies Offer Big Financial Burdens and Loss of Patient Rights
  September 27, 2007

  Washington, DC— A groundbreaking new report on health courts by Case Western Reserve University professors Max Mehlman and Dale Nance finds that health courts would be burdensome, prohibitively expensive and would come at the expense of injured patients.

• AAJ Commends New Report Revealing Bush Administration’s Stealth Campaign to Weaken Health and Safety Standards While Protecting Corporate Wrongdoing
  September 12, 2007

  Washington, DC—The American Association for Justice today commended a new report exposing the Bush Administration’s unprecedented campaign to preempt state authority, weaken regulatory scrutiny, and protect corporate wrongdoing.

• AAJ Report Reveals “Pattern of Greed” Katrina Victims Abused by Insurance Companies As Profits Soar
  August 28, 2007

  Washington, DC—Two years after Hurricane Katrina decimated the homes of thousands of Gulf Coast residents, the American Association for Justice (AAJ) today released a report exposing how insurance companies systematically denied paying policyholders fair and just claims following this and other natural disasters.

• Congress Passes Legislation Protecting Victims of Railroad Negligence
  July 27, 2007 Washington, DC—Jon Haber, CEO of the American Association for Justice (AAJ), issued this statement upon Congress’ successful passage of the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007.

• Flynn Peterson Elected President of the American Association for Justice
  July 19, 2007

  Washington, DC—Minneapolis attorney Kathleen Flynn Peterson, one of the nation’s top litigators in the field of medical malpractice, has been elected President of the American Association for Justice for 2007– 2008.

• AAJ Hosts Presidential Forum
  July 15, 2007

  Washington, DC—Five candidates for the Democratic nomination for President appeared today at a forum hosted by the American Association for Justice. The five candidates – Senator Joseph Biden (D-Delaware), Hillary Clinton (D-New York), former Senator John Edwards, Senator Barack Obama (D-Illinois), and Governor Bill Richardson (D-New Mexico) made individual remarks to the organization’s membership at a luncheon.

• Statement from AAJ on Arbitration Fairness Act of 2007
  July 12, 2007

  Washington, DC—Jon Haber, CEO of the American Association for Justice (AAJ), issued this statement upon today’s introduction of the Arbitration Fairness Act of 2007.

• New Poll Reveals Voter Anxiety about Corporate Misconduct, Support for Strong Civil Justice System to Ensure Accountability and Fairness
  July 12, 2007

  Washington, DC—A national poll of 2008 voters by Peter D. Hart Research Associates, Inc. reveals significant anxiety concerning corporate misconduct and large support among voters for a strong civil justice system to ensure corporate accountability and fairness.

• AAJ Commends Fair Verdict in “Pants” Case
  June 25, 2007

  Washington, DC—Following the verdict in favor of the Chung family, American Association for Justice (AAJ) CEO Jon Haber issued this statement:

• U.S. Supreme Court Affirms Investors’ Right to Corporate Accountability
  June 21, 2007

  Washington, DC—American Association for Justice (AAJ) Chief Executive Officer Jon Haber today issued a statement regarding the Supreme Court’s decision in Tellabs Inc. v. Makor Issues and Rights Ltd.

• President Bush Sides with Corporations over Investors
  June 13, 2007

  Washington, DC—President Bush betrayed investors and damaged American markets by pressuring Solicitor General Paul Clement to steer clear of a pending U.S. Supreme Court case that may still provide shareholders with enhanced tools to hold negligent CEOs accountable for misconduct.

• New Report Shows Malpractice Insurers Price-Gouging Doctors and Driving Up Cost of Care
  May 24, 2007

  Washington, DC— The American Association for Justice (AAJ) today released a report revealing the medical malpractice insurance industry has been price-gouging doctors through excessive premiums and needlessly contributing to the growing cost of healthcare.

• Statement from AAJ President Lewis S. “Mike” Eidson on Baroody Withdrawal
  May 23, 2007 Washington, DC—Lewis S. “Mike” Eidson, President of the American Association for Justice (AAJ), issued this statement upon the announcement by President Bush that the nomination of Michael Baroody to serve as chairman of the Consumer Product Safety Commission has been withdrawn.

• AAJ Calls For Reconsideration of NHTSA Roll Stability Control Rule: Claims Agency Failed To Consider Available Data
  May 23, 2007 Washington, DC—The American Association for Justice (AAJ) has called on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to reconsider its decision not to require automobile manufacturers to install roll stability control in motor vehicles in light of the device’s potential to reduce hundreds of highway fatalities annually.

• Disciplinary Investigation Called for in Dry Cleaners Case
  May 8, 2007 Washington, DC—The American Association for Justice (AAJ) today called for a disciplinary investigation of District of Columbia Administrative Law Judge Roy Pearson Jr., who brought a $65 million lawsuit against a family-owned dry cleaning business for losing his pants.

• AAJ Calls On U.S. Chamber of Commerce to Halt False, Unfair and Deceptive Advertisements
  May 7, 2007

  Washington, DC—The American Association for Justice today demanded that the U.S. Chamber of Commerce immediately halt a series of false, unfair and deceptive print and broadcast advertisements promoting its ongoing campaign to weaken the nation’s civil justice system.

• Senate Overwhelmingly Upholds Strong Rules on Corporate Accountability
  April 25, 2007

  Washington, DC—American Association of Justice Chief Executive Officer John Haber issued the following statement today:

  “We applaud Senators Chris Dodd, Richard Shelby and other members of the Senate who rejected the DeMint amendment to S. 761 (the America Competes Act) by a 62-35 margin yesterday."

• Bogus National Chamber “Study”: Propaganda Attack Against Civil Justice System
  April 25, 2007

  Washington, DC—A bogus study released today by the national Chamber of Commerce claiming to rank so-called “anti-business” state legal systems is yet another baseless attack on the nation’s civil justice system in its campaign to eliminate corporate accountability for wrongdoing and negligence.

• William Schulz Appointed AAJ Vice President of Communications
  April 24, 2007

  Washington, DC—The American Association for Justice today announced the appointment of William Schulz as Vice President, Communications.

• AAJ Calls On Greedy Insurance CEOs to Defend Record Profits
  April 24, 2007

  Washington, DC—The American Association for Justice (AAJ) today called on insurance industry CEOs to defend how they continue to abandon Gulf Coast policyholders after reporting last week the largest profits ever - $63.7 billion. This follows the Insurance Information Institute (III) release yesterday of property casualty insurers’ 2006 numbers.

• AAJ Urges U.S. Senate to Oppose Bush’s Nomination of Anti-Consumer Shill to Key Public Safety Post
  April 19, 2007

  Washington, DC—The American Association for Justice (AAJ) today urged the U.S. Senate to stop President Bush’s nomination of long-time anti-consumer shill Michael Baroody to head the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the federal government’s chief consumer protection agency. The U.S. Senate will hold the nomination hearing on May 3rd.

• Consumer Groups Ask Senate Committee to Side with Investors’ Rights over Corporate Interests
  April 17, 2007

  Washington, DC—A group of pro-consumer organizations (consisting of Consumer Federation of America, Consumer Action, U.S. Public Interest Research Group, Consumers Union and the American Association for Justice) will tomorrow issue a joint letter to the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, focusing on the positive influence of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act in protecting shareholders’ interests