Liever, Hyman & Potter, P.C.

By Tony Mauro
Legal Times

In a surprise 5-4 decision Monday, the Supreme Court ruled that a state lawsuit brought by Maine smokers could proceed against Altria Group, parent company of Philip Morris USA, for fraudulently advertising the health benefits of ‘light’ cigarettes.” In the case, Altria Group v. Good, “Justice John Paul Stevens, writing for the majority…rejected Altria’s assertion that the Federal Cigarette Labeling and Advertising Act pre-empts state tort actions. The ruling runs against the Court’s recent trend in favor of federal pre-emption in cases involving tort litigation against businesses.” And, “Les Weisbrod, president of the American Association for Justice — a trial lawyers group that filed an amicus brief for the smokers — said in a statement, ‘State laws have an important role to play in helping the federal government police false claims, and today’s decision supports that role.’

By Liz Szabo
USA Today

Lead paint. Dangerous magnets. “Poison” plastic.
Alabama mom Trisha Gilbert says it’s not easy to keep up with the latest news on toy safety. Last year, Gilbert began researching the safety of her daughter’s products. She called manufacturers to learn more about the ingredients that go into everything from baby toys to sunscreen. After friends and neighbors began turning to her for advice, Gilbert, whose daughter is now 2½, decided to share her findings online at amomsblog.wordpress.com. “Parents are concerned, and they don’t know where to go,” says Gilbert, whose second child is due any day. “This takes away a lot of time from sleeping, but I feel better because I’m doing what’s best for my children, and I feel more confident in the products I’m using.” (more…)