The American Tort Reform Foundation has released its latest list of Judicial Hellholes:
- The Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas and the Pennsylvania Supreme Court
- New York City
- South Carolina Asbestos Litigation
- Georgia
- California
- Cook County, Illinois
- St. Louis, Missouri
- The Michigan Supreme Court
- King County, Washington
- Louisiana
Georgia
Georgia placed No. 4 on the 2024 Judicial Hellholes list, marking the sixth year in a row on the list. While the state dropped from the top spot, the ranking highlights ongoing problems in its civil justice system that hurt individuals and small businesses alike, Loggins said.
The report says Georgia remains a hotspot for so-called nuclear verdicts — jury awards exceeding $10 million — and continues to allow trial tactics like phantom damages. These abuses cost the state jobs and drive up costs, with Georgia residents paying a yearly “tort tax” of more than $1,372—32% higher than in neighboring states.
“Georgia’s legal climate remains a big concern and expense for small businesses,” National Federation of Independent Business State Director Hunter Loggins said in a release. “ATRF’s report highlights many of the issues affecting employers and consumers throughout the state. We’re glad this is a priority for Gov. Brian Kemp, and we look forward to working with him and legislative leaders to address this important issue in next year’s legislative session.
“It’s time for real reform,” Loggins added. “Georgia’s legal system should protect fairness, not encourage abuse. Every resident deserves a system that works for everyone.”