Bad Bill Becomes Law: Time Limits on Mesothelioma Plaintiff Depositions Enacted in California

California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed Senate Bill 645 into law. This law imposes stringent time limits on asbestos defendants’ deposition examination of a mesothelioma or silicosis plaintiff. (See prior post here.)

SB 645’s passage comes after a summer of highly emotional testimony in the legislature by the proponents of the bill. It was ordered to a third and final reading before the California Assembly in July, after passing quickly through the California Senate in June.

The new law places a 7-hour limitation on defendants’ deposition examination of a mesothelioma plaintiff if a licensed physician provides a declaration attesting both that the plaintiff has mesothelioma, and that there is substantial medical doubt of survival beyond 6 months. Defendants may move the court for an additional 3 hours if more than 10 defendants appear at the deposition, and an additional 7 hours if more than 20 defendants appear at the deposition. However, the court may only grant even these minimal extensions of time upon a finding that the extension is in the interest of fairness, and that the health of the plaintiff is not endangered by the grant of additional time.

SB 645 is even worse than California’s prior law, which allowed for 7 hours of deposition testimony, plus an extension of up to 20 hours of total testimony in the trial court’s discretion. The law also seems to override case management orders in counties with heavy asbestos calendars, such as Alameda and Los Angeles counties, where the case management orders regularly provided up to 20 hours for defendants’ deposition testimony in asbestos cases.

Start Your Law Group on Telegram Today

Welcome to the digital age, where social media platforms have become an integral part of our daily lives. From staying connected with friends and family to joining communities of like-minded individuals, social media has transformed the way we interact with the world. Telegram, a popular messaging app, has emerged as a top choice for forming specialized groups. If you’re a legal professional or someone interested in the legal field, why not consider starting your very own law group on Telegram?

Why Choose Telegram for Your Law Group?

Telegram offers a host of features that make it an ideal platform for forming and managing your law group. Firstly, it’s free to use, ensuring that all your members can join without any financial constraints. Secondly, Telegram groups can host a large number of members, making it perfect for growing a thriving community.

Another standout feature of Telegram is its commitment to security and privacy. The platform boasts end-to-end encryption, ensuring that your conversations and shared information are kept confidential. As a law group, privacy and confidentiality are paramount, making Telegram a reliable choice.

Furthermore, Telegram’s user-friendly interface makes it easy for members to engage in discussions, share documents, and collaborate effectively. With features like polls, file sharing, and reply threading, Telegram offers a comprehensive platform for your law group’s needs.

Building a Community of Telegram Group Members

Now that you’ve chosen Telegram as your platform, it’s time to build a community of engaged and passionate members. Reach out to your professional network, legal colleagues, and even law students who might be interested in joining your group.

Make sure to have a clear purpose for your law group and set some ground rules to maintain a respectful and constructive environment. Encourage members to actively participate in discussions, share insights, and ask questions. The success of any group lies in the active involvement of its members.

“telegram group members” play a vital role in shaping the dynamics of your law group. Engage with them regularly, seek feedback, and create a sense of belonging within the community. Organize events, webinars, or guest speakers to keep the discussions fresh and informative.

Collaboration and Networking Opportunities

One of the significant advantages of having a law group on Telegram is the potential for collaboration and networking. Members with diverse legal backgrounds can share their expertise, offer advice, and even collaborate on projects.

Moreover, the networking opportunities within your law group can extend beyond the virtual space. You can organize meetups or networking events where members can connect face-to-face, fostering even stronger professional relationships.

Final Thoughts

Starting a law group on Telegram opens up a world of possibilities for legal professionals and enthusiasts alike. The platform’s versatility, security, and user-friendly interface make it an excellent choice for creating a thriving community of like-minded individuals.

Remember, the success of your law group lies in the active participation of “Telegram group members.” Nurture the community, encourage meaningful discussions, and provide valuable resources to keep your group flourishing.

So, what are you waiting for? Start your law group on Telegram today and embark on a journey of knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and networking within the legal sphere.