Diversity in Mass Tort Leadership

By MASSIVE Partner, Marcy Spitz, Esq.

The Women’s Summit at Trial Lawyers of Mass Torts (TLMT) will cover many topics including diversity, equity and inclusion issues that are being brought to the Mass Tort community by the Judiciary. I had the pleasure of participating in a webinar last year with the Honorable J. Michelle Childs, U.S. Circuit Judge of U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. During the panel discussion, she and the others discussed the importance of diversity in leadership that can be mandated by the Judge assigned to the matter.

As is evident in many past MDLs, the PEC/PSC have traditionally been filled by white, older males that had enough money to fund the litigations. Most recently, Judge Denise Cote, transferee Judge on the Tylenol/APAP case, sent back the first slate of leadership due to a lack of diversity. After the request, the leadership on the MDL came back with 40% women on leadership, a record number. We are excited to see these changes taking place right before our eyes. MASSIVE is in support of the Judiciary emphasizing diversity, equity, and inclusion and extends to all service providers in the mass torts community.

Looking forward to seeing all of you at TLMT to learn more from the Judiciary and other Mass Tort professionals. Contact me if you’d like to set up a meeting at the event!