As we enter the year 2024, the legal landscape is poised for significant battles that will shape the future of justice and society. From climate litigation to social media regulation, mass torts, and housing rights, several critical legal issues are expected to dominate the headlines. In this article, we will explore the top legal battles expected in 2024.
Climate Litigation: A Transformative Phase
Climate litigation is entering a transformative phase, with a growing focus on fossil fuel phaseout cases and the use of discovery to uncover internal documentation of corporations. This shift is expected to hold those responsible for climate change accountable and champion climate justice, particularly for historically marginalized communities.
Social Media Regulation: Balancing Free Speech and Moderation
The U.S. Supreme Court is set to resolve several cases at the intersection of social media, free speech, and moderation. These cases will determine the limits of social media companies' content moderation policies and the role of governments in regulating online speech.
Mass Torts: The Battle Over Bankruptcy and Settlements
The Supreme Court's decision in Harrington v. Purdue Pharma L.P. will have significant implications for the viability of bankruptcy as a means of resolving mass torts. This case raises questions about the limits of bankruptcy in binding non-debtor parties to settlements and the impact on the opioid crisis and other mass harm cases.
Housing Rights: The Fight Against Anti-Camping Regulations
The Supreme Court will hear arguments in Johnson v. Grants Pass, a class action challenging the anti-camping regulations of Grants Pass, Oregon. This case has significant implications for the rights of the unhoused and the role of governments in addressing homelessness.
Other Key Battles
Other notable legal trends to watch in 2024 include the growth of third-party litigation funding, the abuse of the arbitration system through mass arbitrations, and the increasing importance of discovery in climate litigation.
Conclusion
The legal battles of 2024 will have far-reaching consequences for society, the environment, and the economy. As these cases unfold, it is essential to stay informed and engaged in the ongoing debates that will shape the future of justice and human rights.
