state courts News

Massachusetts Lawyers, Judges Lobby for More Court Funding

Lawyers and judges warned lawmakers on Monday that budget constraints on the state’s judiciary are imperiling the delivery of justice and compromising security in its courts. Robert Mulligan, chief justice for administration and management, said a 17 percent reduction in …

Va. Supreme Court: Insurer Not Liable For Claims From Global Warming

The Virginia Supreme Court has ruled in favor of an insurance company in a closely watched legal case involving global warming. The high court ruled that Steadfast Insurance Co., which provided commercial general liability (CGL) coverage for energy company AES …

Pennsylvania Court Upholds Motorcyclist ‘On,’ ‘Off’ Exclusion

A Pennsylvania court has ruled that an exclusion in underinsured motorist coverage for injuries incurred while on a motorcycle applies to motorcyclists injured after being thrown off their bikes. An underinsured motorist coverage from Allstate contained an exclusion for injuries …

Panel Recommends New Business-Only Court in West Virginia

The West Virginia Supreme Court is being encouraged to create a new system to consider all business-related lawsuits. The recommendation comes from a six-member committee the court appointed last year in response to legislation. Lawmakers called for the review, saying …

Obama Budget, House Panel Address Medical Malpractice Reforms

Putting his own stamp on a long-standing Republican priority, President Barack Obama is launching a drive to overhaul state medical malpractice laws and cut down on wasteful tests doctors perform because they fear lawsuits. Obama’s budget calls for $250 million …