City Attorney Jan Goldsmith says San Diego spends about $25 million a year handling frivolous lawsuits.
He spoke at a news conference put on by the group California Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse. Goldsmith said, unlike private citizens, the city cannot recover its legal fees when it wins a lawsuit. He said that should be changed.
"A 'loser pays attorneys' fees' is the most effective reform that could be implemented," he said. "Don’t stop people from filing their claims, but take responsibility when their claims have no merit."
Goldsmith said several states have created laws that give judges discretion to order losers to pay attorneys' fees.
Two bills, SB 1186 and AB 2274, aimed at reducing lawsuit abuse, are waiting for Governor Jerry Brown’s signature.
