WASHINGTON, D.C. – Lisa A. Rickard, president of the U.S. Chamber Institute for Legal Reform (ILR), issued the following statement regarding today’s release of the report Judicial Hellholes 2012/2013 by the American Tort Reform Association (ATRA):

“I commend ATRA for once again highlighting some of the nation’s worst lawsuit jurisdictions. Today”s report reminds us of the continued need for legal reform in many areas of the country.

“In this time of economic uncertainty, it is particularly important for those jurisdictions highlighted in the report to pay close attention as the lawsuit climate is a crucial factor in job creation and economic growth. This year’s Harris Survey of the legal climates in all fifty states shows that 70% percent of companies say a state’s lawsuit environment is likely to impact decisions such as where to locate or expand their businesses.”

ILR seeks to promote civil justice reform through legislative, political, judicial, and educational activities at the national, state, and local levels.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations.

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