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Corporate

Nov. 2, 2006

Punitive-Damages Debate More Dud Than Drama for Top Court

WASHINGTON - In a high-stakes case for the business community, consumers and the trial bar, the Supreme Court on Tuesday wrestled with whether a $79.5 million punitive damages award to the widow of a lifelong smoker was so large that it violated the Constitution.

By Brent Kendall
Daily Journal Staff Writer

      WASHINGTON - In a high-stakes case for the business community, consumers and the trial bar, the Supreme Court on Tuesday wrestled with whether a $79.5 million punitive damages award to the widow of a lifelong smoker was so large that it violated the Constitution.
      The case has been especially closely watched in California, where hig...

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