Proposed Rule Seeks to Bring Clarity and Efficiency to Multi-District Litigation Proceedings

Washington, D.C. – The Federal Advisory Committee on Civil Rules is seeking public comment on proposed Rule 16.1, which focuses on case management in multidistrict litigation (MDL) proceedings. The proposed rule aims to provide guidance for both parties and transferee courts regarding early case management in MDLs, including leadership appointments, information exchange, and other critical tasks that can impact the efficiency and cost of litigation. Businesses and other interested parties have until February 16, 2024, to submit their comments on the proposed rule. As it currently stands, the proposed rule, drafted with permissive language, does … Read more

New Leadership Takes Charge of Philadelphia Court’s Mass Torts Litigation for Enhanced Efficiency and Justice

Philadelphia, PA – The Philadelphia court system has recently made changes to the leadership overseeing mass torts litigation. This move comes as the court aims to optimize the management of these complex cases. The shuffle in leadership involves the appointment of new judges to preside over these matters, ensuring a fresh perspective and expertise. The purpose of this change is to enhance the efficiency of the court system in dealing with mass torts cases. Mass torts involve numerous individuals who have been harmed by the same product, such as a defective medical device or a … Read more

US Appeals Court Judge Criticizes President Biden’s Water Efficiency Rules for Appliances as ‘Arbitrary and Capricious’

WASHINGTON – President Joe Biden faced a major setback in the judiciary when US Appeals Court Judge Andrew Oldham criticized his decision as “arbitrary and capricious.” This comes after 11 Republican-led states challenged alterations to rules aimed at improving the efficiency of dishwashers and washing machines. In a ruling issued on Monday, Judge Oldham questioned whether the Department of Energy (DOE) had the authority to regulate water usage in these appliances. He also raised doubts about the effectiveness of the new rules in reducing water consumption. The DOE had announced plans in March to implement … Read more