Supreme Court Opens New Term

Today, the Supreme Court’s 2008-2009 term opens with an important preemption case regarding Big Tobacco’s liability in state class-action suits. This year promises to be an important one, with consumer safety and corporate liability expected to be major themes. Alliance for Justice has released its report on what we can expect to see this term. It’s available online here.

The Court will hear arguments about whether tobacco and drug companies can shield themselves from liability, whether the executive branch can detain an individual indefinitely without criminal charge or trial, and whether employers can retaliate against workers who report or participate in investigations related to sex-based discrimination.