Billions at Stake: How Mass Tort Litigation and External Funding Drain the U.S. Economy and Clog the Courts

Washington, D.C. – The landscape of mass tort litigation in the United States, a critical but complex facet of the judicial system, is facing criticism for its failure to fairly compensate victims while draining economic resources. The mass tort mechanism, often involving multi-district litigation (MDL), was created to streamline large civil lawsuits through consolidation. However, instead of fostering efficiency, it has morphed into a lucrative opportunity for lawyers and their financial backers, overshadowing its initial purpose. In recent years, these litigations have disproportionately clogged the judiciary, making up 65% of federal civil cases in 2023, … Read more

Exploring the Staggering Financial Impact of Mass Tort Litigation on the Economy

The economic impact of mass tort litigation, where a large number of plaintiffs litigate against one or a few corporations, is staggering and has far-reaching implications across various sectors of the economy. As these cases rise in number, businesses face not only damaging financial implications but also significant shifts in operational practices. When companies are hit with lawsuits alleging issues like product liabilities or environmental harm, they often encounter substantial expenses beyond mere legal fees. Settlements can reach billions of dollars, potentially destabilizing even the most financially robust companies. For example, the tobacco litigation of … Read more

Discover the Secrets of Jury Selection with Epstein Becker Green’s Latest Podcast Episode on ‘Speaking of Litigation’

NEW YORK — In the latest episode of the video podcast “Speaking of Litigation,” Epstein Becker Green attorneys Eric Neiman, Teddy McCormick, and Jonathan Brollier dive deep into the intricacies of jury selection—a fundamental but complex aspect of legal trials. The discussion offers a blend of ancient strategies and modern innovations, including the use of artificial intelligence, highlighting its evolving nature in today’s legal environment. Eric Neiman, a partner at Epstein Becker Green in Portland, Oregon, opened the dialogue by emphasizing the frequency and importance of jury selection in civil cases across the United States. … Read more

Fortress Investment Group Dominates Litigation Funding Sector, Handling Multibillion-Dollar Cases with Tactical Precision

New York — Fortress Investment Group has risen to the summit of the controversial and secretive litigation funding industry, not just through its substantial financial resources but also through its keen operational strategies. With approximately $6.6 billion allocated to legal assets, Fortress supports law firms engaged in significant lawsuits, including the Roundup cases against Bayer AG and talcum powder litigation against Johnson & Johnson. Additionally, it has committed $2.9 billion to intellectual property, making it the largest institutional investor in patents globally. The firm is recognized for its aggressive approach, particularly in intellectual property where … Read more