ROSELAND, N.J./April 30, 2009 — Kevin R. Gardner and Matthew W. Bauer, Connell Foley partners, spoke at the USLAW Spring Client Conference in Charleston, South Carolina on March 26–28, 2009. Each shared their specialized experience with an assembled group of USLAW members and their clients during targeted panel presentations on a variety of topics.
Mr. Gardner moderated a panel entitled “Dealing With The Litigation Wild Card-Punitive Damage Claims.” The discussion focused on punitive damage claims in product liability actions and new recall procedures to which manufacturers and retailers may be subject under the new Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act. The panel included corporate representatives, counsel, and a jury consultant, who addressed the legal tactics as well as the practical strategies for evaluating and successfully dealing with the economics and psychological elements of punitive damage claims.
Kevin R. Gardner is a member of the firm’s Product Liability and Tort Law, Commercial Litigation, Crisis Management and Catastrophic Loss, and Alternative Dispute Resolution practice groups. For more information, please contact Mr. Gardner at 973-533-0500 or kgardner@connellfoley.com.
Mr. Bauer moderated a panel entitled “Liquid Courage: Expanding Liability in Dram Shop Litigation.” This presentation examined the increased frequency with which Courts are slowing eroding longstanding limitations on establishment owner’s liability. Additionally, the discussion focused on programs designed to train employees in the identification of intoxicated persons and how training materials can be protected even if disclosed. Panelists also discussed the importance of experts, as well as strategies for effective investigation and discovery in these cases. Matthew W. Bauer is a member of the firm’s Commercial Litigation and Transportation Law practice groups, among others.
USLAW is a network of more than sixty law firms in the United States and twenty-three European firms that assists its clients in procuring qualified legal representation around the world. Prior to extending an offer of membership, USLAW subjects candidate law firms that meet its stringent criteria to a rigorous review process.