>> Click the image above to view the full brochure <<It is frequently assumed that the executive branch of government is responsible for the enforcement of the laws designed to curb serious misconduct, whether by individuals or corporations. The methods employed by the executive branch include administrative regulation and criminal prosecution, and it is anticipated that these methods will effectively identify and punish harmful acts. In this view, privately initiated litigation is, at most, an adjunct to executive action—an after-the-fact calculation of personal harm, the interests of society having already been addressed.
This is a simplistic conceptualization of law enforcement in America. It does not account for tort or other private claims as front-line tools of policing to address and deter harmful conduct, particularly by large corporations.
Recent executive branch failures due to a lack of resources, conceptual bias, or the exercise of political or financial influence underscore the importance of private litigation in cabining corporate misconduct. One need look no further than the fallout from the opioid epidemic or the deadly results of manufacturing malfeasance in the auto and aircraft industries to recognize the critical need for private litigation to confront corporate harms that cost human lives.
Corporate America, uncontrolled by vigorous government action, has built a rickety edifice whose walls have repeatedly collapsed on those lured inside. Private litigation to hold companies accountable offers an important avenue
to render the incautious responsible for their actions.
DePaul University College of Law is an accredited Illinois MCLE provider. This program has been approved for up to 9.00 hours of general CLE credit (Day 1: Up to 5.75 credits; Day 2: Up to 3.25 credits).
Online participants will receive a link to view the presentation just ahead of the event. All in-person attendees must comply with DePaul University's COVID-19 policy, which requires attendees be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or have proof of a negative COVID-19 test dated no earlier than 72 hours prior to the program. Documentation will be reviewed at check-in for the event for all guests except DePaul faculty, staff and students. Masks are encouraged but not required. These rules are subject to change in accordance with public health guidance.