WVAJ Re-Issues Challenge to West Virginia Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse: Join Us in Statewide Public Forums on Our Civil Justice System
May 13, 2015
Charleston, W.Va. – The West Virginia Association for Justice today re-issued its formal challenge to West Virginia Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse for the two organizations to hold a series of public forums on the state’s civil justice system. WVAJ would work with CALA to schedule a minimum of five events throughout the state.
CALA refused to accept the challenge when it was made in February. The challenge was sent to CALA again this morning via email and certified mail.
“I don’t understand why CALA refused to join WVAJ in a series of public forums on West Virginia’s civil justice system. There’s been a lot of debate regarding our courts and 7th amendment right to trial by jury, with us on one side and CALA on the other. If CALA’s facts are accurate and West Virginia citizens support its position, as CALA claims they do, then why won’t CALA accept our challenge?” said Beth White, executive director of the West Virginia Association for Justice.
“This week, CALA praised West Virginia citizens who served on our juries and thanked them for their service. WVAJ did the same. CALA should join WVAJ and present our information and positions to the ultimate jury—the people of West Virginia.”
Just like the courtroom, where evidence is presented to juries, the forums will be a “no spin” zone.
“There is a lot of misinformation and half-truths about our courts. WVAJ does not deal in propaganda. If CALA accepts our challenge, both sides need to stick to the facts. Information should come from verifiable, third-party sources, not trumped up studies from other front groups that can’t be replicated. Let’s present the hard evidence to the people and let them decide.”
“CALA should also be prepared to disclose its funders. West Virginians know who funds WVAJ—our attorney and paralegal members. For more than 20 years, CALA has claimed to be a ‘citizens’ organization, yet it has refused to disclose its funders from Day 1. If there’s nothing to hide, then why refuse to answer the question? ”
WVAJ also requires that the forums are open to any person who wants to attend as well as to the local media. “In the past CALA has hosted ‘roundtables,’ but these events were by invitation only and were not open to the public. It’s far easier to tell the media that you have the local community on your side when you’ve pre-selected your audience and they agree with you already. These events will be open to the public.”
WVAJ proposes that the forums be moderated by a local news reporter agreed upon by both organizations. Earned and paid media for the events will also be approved by both groups. Additional guidelines can be negotiated.
“I hope that CALA accepts our challenge and joins us. West Virginians deserve accurate, comprehensive information about our civil justice system, business climate and how our courts protect our state residents and small businesses,” White said.
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