Gordon & Rees partner Deborah Smith and senior counsel Richard Ames of San Francisco co-wrote an article published in the Spring 2013 issue of the American Bar Association’s Tort Trial & Insurance Practice Section Toxic Torts and Environmental Law Newsletter.
In the article, titled “California Imposes New Limits on Depositions,” Smith and Ames discuss California Civil Procedure §2025.290, a new law that generally limits depositions in California to seven hours of testimony. The law, which went in to effect on Jan. 1, adds a new limitation on discovery in California. In the article, Smith and Ames outline the difference in emphasis between the California discovery scheme and the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, exceptions to the rules, and what to consider for your next case in California.
As a member of Gordon & Rees’s Environmental/Toxic Tort and Tort & Product Liability Practice Groups, Smith defends national product liability and business litigation claims and has assisted in the trial of several cases in Northern and Southern California. She has extensive experience preparing key defense strategies and preparing clients and expert witnesses for depositions and trial testimony. Smith has negotiated the resolution of numerous cases and obtained favorable rulings for her clients on complex and innovative motions for summary judgment.
Ames, also a member of the Environmental/Toxic Tort Practice Group, is experienced in asbestos defense litigation including Navy equipment cases, construction products, premises liability, and claims against contractors. He practices in state and federal jurisdictions in California, as well as the asbestos multidistrict litigation in Philadelphia. In addition, Ames handles real estate and construction litigation matters such as construction defect, broker liability, contractors' liens, condominium disputes, easements, and other matters.
To read the Toxic Torts and Environmental Law Newsletter article, click here.