publiclawlibrary.org

$1.1 Billion Risperdal Settlement a Landmark Victory for Plaintiffs in Philadelphia’s Mass Tort History

by

Philadelphia, PA — The sprawling legal battle over Risperdal, once involving over 7,000 cases, has largely concluded with settlements that encompass a total of up to $1.1 billion. The litigation revolved around allegations that the drug, often prescribed off-label, led to the development of gynecomastia in young men and boys, a condition characterized by the growth of breast tissue. The resolution of these cases marked a significant moment in the city’s Complex Litigation Center, noted for handling one of the largest mass torts in its history. This litigation was notable not only for its size … Read more

California Sets Groundbreaking AI and Performer Rights Laws: New Measures to Shield Artists from Unauthorized Digital Replicas

by

Sacramento, CA – California has positioned itself at the forefront of safeguarding performers in the era of generative artificial intelligence. Governor Gavin Newsom signed two landmark bills into law on September 17, 2024, strengthening the rights of both deceased and living performers against unauthorized uses of their digital likenesses or voices. These groundbreaking legislations, Assembly Bill 1836 and Assembly Bill 2602, address the increasing use of AI to create eerily realistic digital replicas in film, music, and television, which could potentially exploit performers’ likenesses without their consent. The new laws, which are scheduled to take … Read more

Exploring Global Trends: How Zip Code and Country Selections Reflect Societal Dynamics

by

Washington, D.C. – In the rapidly evolving digital marketplace, consumers are often required to enter their state of residence and zip code to complete various transactions, ranging from ordering goods online to applying for new services. This process, although seemingly straightforward, plays a crucial role in compliance with both state and federal regulations. The United States, along with Canada, has established a detailed system to facilitate these transactions. Every state and territory in the U.S. has a designated two-letter code that must be used when filling out forms requiring postal information. For example, Alabama is … Read more

Voices Unheard: The Perilous Fight for Justice by China’s Human Rights Lawyers

by

Washington – Speaking at a recent event at the Catholic University of America, Yaxue Cao, founder of ChinaChange.org, highlighted the daunting challenges that criminal defense and human rights lawyers face in China’s legal system. The event, which included the screening of the documentary “The Defenders: 20 Years of Human Rights Lawyers in China,” was hosted by the university’s various centers focused on law and human rights. Cao’s speech, laden with anecdotes and legal historical context, painted a grim picture of a judiciary that operates under stringent controls from the ruling Communist Party of China. She … Read more