APIL backs moratorium on terror-attack litigation to ease pain of victims' families

The Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL) this week backed a moratorium on litigation arising from the terrorist attacks on New York and Washington.In an historic move made the day after the tragedy occurred, the Association of Trial Lawyers of America (ATLA) said lawsuits would interfere in the 'period of national unity' and detract from lawyers' priority of helping the government gather evidence against the perpetrators.So far, despite reports that some US lawyers have signed up victims' families, no actions have been filed.

Urging its members to support ATLA, an APIL spokesperson said: 'The wishes of the injured people and their families must be paramount, especially at a time of crisis.

We call upon all governments to implement swift measures to make sure they do not endure any further suffering.' Andrew Parker, president of the Forum of Insurance Lawyers, said it was 'very helpful for lawyers and insurers to show a responsible attitude' at this time.The US Congress is considering a streamlined compensation system for victims, as well as requests from American Airlines and United Airlines that there should be limits on their liability.The American Bar Association (ABA) has revealed that nine of its lawyers or their family members have died or are missing following the attacks, and stepped in to offer its legal know-how to both the government and people who are suffering as a result.

The ABA has put together a 'terrorism and the law' task force, with the aim, according to president Robert Hirshon, of making sure 'the mechanisms exist that will permit prompt and effective investigation and prosecution of those responsible for those heinous acts, while at the same time ensuring we preserve the fundamental principles of our constitutional law'.The ABA has also joined with the Federal Emergency Management Agency to set up a free telephone hotline and Web advice service.

More than 1,000 lawyers have volunteered to offer advice on issues related to the tragedy including housing, insurance, state benefits and probate.

The Web site will also provide information on local pro bono and lawyer referral programmes.Paula Rohan