Girardi and Keese

Website Links

Description

By: David R. Lira and Martin N. Buchanan The Doctrine of Preemption presents a potent defense/obstacle in product liability lawsuits. The Doctrine of Preemption is complicated and misunderstood by many courts as is evident from the patchwork of published cases throughout the country. Historically, a state law claim will be "preempted" if it stands as an obstacle to the objectives of a federal law/regulation. A vast array of consumer products are regulated by federal safety standards such as automobiles, pharmaceutical drugs, medical devices, child safety seats and cribs, to name a few.

The 1989 regulation at issue in Williamson is no longer in effect. As of 2007, all passenger vehicles must now have lap/shoulder belts in all rear seating positions. However, there are still many passenger vehicles manufactured prior to 2007 that have only lap belts in the center and aisle seating positions. In 2008, NHTSA estimated that there were over 1 million vehicles in the United States equipped with only a lap belt in some seating position. Thus, the Williamson decision could apply to many vehicles still on the road.

Our San Bernardino Law Firm The lawyers at Girardi | Keese provide a voice for people who have been injured. Founded in 1965, our lawyers fight for individuals and businesses that have been harmed by others. We handle personal injury, business litigation, intellectual property, employment law, product liability and other areas of law. No matter the area, we know that our clients rely on us to use our significant resources and experience to help them overcome their challenges. Our law firm has obtained numerous multimillion dollar verdicts and settlements nationwide.

Representing People With Back and Spinal Cord Injuries Back and neck injuries can cause pain and suffering, be difficult to properly diagnose and require surgery, therapy and rehabilitation. They can also be difficult to prove. A spinal cord injury completely changes the life of the victim and the family. The injuries are obvious - paraplegia or quadriplegia - and the medical and care needs last a lifetime. The attorneys at Girardi | Keese have represented clients with the full range of back, neck and spinal cord injuries.

Changing the law : It is not enough to sue individuals and businesses that have harmed others. Our law firm works in Sacramento and in Washington, D.C., to strengthen the laws that protect individuals. In all of our practice areas , from personal injury to business litigation, from intellectual property to product liability, Girardi | Keese lawyers have an extraordinary depth of experience. We work hard, but we enjoy every minute of it.

Fact sheet

Company contacts

Products & services

Similar companies nearby