By The following is a statement by Lisa A. Rickard, president of the U.S. Chamber Institute for Legal Reform, on today's ruling by federal bankruptcy Judge George R. Hodges of the Western District of North Carolina in the Garlock asbestos bankruptcy case:
"Fraud and abuse have plagued asbestos litigation for decades, as today's order by Judge Hodges' makes clear. Plaintiffs' lawyers are manipulating and withholding evidence, and Judge Hodges recognizes that this is 'a regular practice by many plaintiffs' firms.'
"The Garlock bankruptcy order underscores the need for federal and state legislation to rein in asbestos litigation abuse. Because, as Judge Hodges' states: 'It appears certain that more extensive discovery would show more extensive abuse.'"
ILR seeks to promote civil justice reform through legislative, political, judicial, and educational activities at the national, state, and local levels.
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U.S. Chamber Institute for Legal Reform
Justin Hakes, 202-463-3156
