Supreme Court Limits Bankruptcy Shield, Forcing Companies to Reassess Settlement Strategies in Mass Tort Cases

Washington — The recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling has significantly impacted how bankruptcy can be employed, particularly in mass tort litigations involving organizations like Purdue Pharma, the makers of OxyContin. The court has curtailed the scope of bankruptcy courts, specifically rescinding their authority to dismiss legal claims against non-debtors without the explicit consent of the involved parties. Historically, bankruptcy proceedings have provided a robust mechanism for organizations to manage and settle widespread legal challenges, including cases related to sexual abuse and consumer products linked to health issues. Such procedures allowed for the automatic halting of … Read more

Capitol Rioter Dubbed ‘Shield Grampy’ Sentenced to Over 4 Years for Assaulting Officers During January 6th Attack

WASHINGTON — A federal judge in Washington sentenced a man involved in the January 6 Capitol riots to more than four and a half years in prison on Thursday for assaulting law enforcement officers during the attack. Anthony Mastanduno, 61, known to online followers as “Shield Grampy,” had previously admitted guilt to nine criminal charges in March, a pivotal month that was supposed to see former Republican presidential hopeful Donald Trump commence his trial over similar allegations connected to the attack. The sentencing of Mastanduno unfolds as Trump’s own legal battle remains on hold. The … Read more