Alycen A. Moss, co-vice chair of the Global Insurance Department at Cozen O’Connor, said that Georgia's tort reform measures are expected to reduce frivolous lawsuits and "nuclear" verdicts by clarifying civil litigation rules in the state. Moss made these remarks in a post on Law360.
"I am optimistic that they will help control abuses that we are seeing in lawsuits and decrease the number of frivolous lawsuits and excessive damage awards in Georgia," said A. Moss. "Georgia has had an increasing number of "nuclear" verdicts, and that the bills should streamline civil litigation by clarifying rules and guidelines."
On April 21, Governor Brian Kemp signed a comprehensive tort reform package into law, describing it as a significant step toward restoring fairness and balance in Georgia’s civil justice system. The legislation introduces reforms in areas such as premises liability, medical damages transparency, curbing excessive jury awards, bifurcated trials, and limiting third-party litigation funding from hostile foreign actors. Key legislative figures like Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones and Speaker Jon Burns commended the bipartisan effort behind the reforms aimed at enhancing transparency, fairness, and economic competitiveness. Kemp attributed the successful passage of the reform to the collaboration among lawmakers and support from citizens across Georgia.
According to Protecting American Consumers Together (PACT), a poll released on February 7, 2025, indicated that 72% of Georgia voters believe lawsuit abuse contributes to rising costs of goods and services. The poll showed bipartisan support for this view among Republicans (88%), Independents (64%), and Democrats (62%). Conducted by Public Opinion Strategies from February 2-5, 2025, the survey also revealed that 85% of voters consider it essential for the Legislature to address lawsuit abuse to eliminate hidden taxes on consumers. Additionally, 82% of individuals who have used personal injury lawyers support reforms to the current system.
A study published by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for Legal Reform on January 24 highlighted that increasing tort costs in Georgia are imposing a growing financial burden on households by driving up insurance premiums and overall living expenses. In 2022, tort costs in the state reached nearly $20 billion, averaging over $2,000 per household. These expenses stem from civil litigation, claim compensation, and administrative costs affecting both businesses and consumers.
Moss is also managing partner of Cozen O’Connor’s Atlanta office where she specializes in civil litigation related to insurance, transportation, environmental exposure, and complex torts. She offers strategic advice to insurers on coverage disputes, risk management, and litigation strategies while representing trucking and logistics companies in regulatory and accident-related matters. Recognized nationally as a speaker and author, Moss holds leadership roles in legal organizations such as FDCC (Federation of Defense & Corporate Counsel) and has received multiple awards for her contributions to litigation education and legal scholarship.