Last weekend the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette ran an article about changing venue for only victim lawsuits in Pennsylvania. The trial lawyers organization was never contacted before the story ran or asked to comment. Below is the response letter to the editor printed in today’s Pittsburgh Post- Gazette by Pennsylvania Association for Justice’s President and Schmidt Kramer Injury lawyer Partner Scott Cooper.
State must add jobs to compete, not infringe on legal rights
November 29, 2012 12:28 am
Regarding the Nov. 26 story that said Pennsylvania has earned a bad reputation for “litigation tourism” (“Holding Business Hostage”).
If we want to improve Pennsylvania’s economy, we need to add jobs, not take away people’s rights.
Under Pennsylvania’s well-established rule on venue, jurisdiction for civil cases is determined by our state Supreme Court. Venue works because it guarantees everyone’s access to our civil justice system.
Corporations are not immune from lawsuits if they behave irresponsibly. But the drug manufacturers, tobacco industry and insurance companies behind the U.S. Chamber of Commerce want to tilt the playing field.
If Pennsylvania is receiving a failing grade on its economy, it is due to factors such as education, quality of life, access to new markets and tax incentives. These are areas where we need to make improvements if we want our economy to come back.
Gutting venue is unconstitutional and won’t create a single job.
SCOTT B. COOPER
President
Pennsylvania Association for Justice
Harrisburg
Clearly, more than one person or company can contribute to an accident which causes serious accidents or even death. If you or a loved one have been severely injured by the actions of another, contact Schmidt Kramer at (717) 888-8888 and the consultation is free.