This is a question that comes up quite frequently and appears to be a source of some confusion. The law is that motions to strike a state law claim are proper in California Federal courts, e.g., libel, slander, intentional interference with prospective economic advantage. This is so because there is no conflict between the Federal rules and Code of Civil Procedure 425.16(b). … [Read more...] about Can an anti-SLAPP Motion Be Filed In Federal Court?
SLAPP
Why the “Do it Yourself” Mentality Is A Bad Idea
We are a "do it yourself" nation. If you don't believe me, just take a look at the "how to" section of any bookstore or library and you'll see what I'm talking about. There are books on how to do just about anything, including practicing law. Now, I'm not here to knock those kinds of books because they have their place. I understand that the economy is tough … [Read more...] about Why the “Do it Yourself” Mentality Is A Bad Idea
A Little Known Requirement in the California anti-SLAPP Statute
I was not surprised last week when a Judge said that anti-SLAPP is a complicated area of law—it most certainly is. There are well over 350 published decisions on the subject, including several California Supreme court decisions. I often tell other lawyers that they need to be very careful in crafting their papers in support of or in opposition to an anti-SLAPP motion. One … [Read more...] about A Little Known Requirement in the California anti-SLAPP Statute
Is An Anti-SLAPP Motion Like A Demurrer?
Once a defendant makes its threshold showing that a complaint arises under protected activity, the plaintiff must demonstrate a probability of prevailing on the merits. This means a plaintiff must state and substantiate a legally sufficient claim. Premier Med. Mgmt. Systems, Inc. v. California Ins. Guar. Ass'n (2006) 136 Cal.App.4th 464. Stated another way, plaintiff … [Read more...] about Is An Anti-SLAPP Motion Like A Demurrer?
Can You File A SLAPP Suit And Then Dismiss It Without Any Consequences?
The mere threat of an anti-SLAPP motion (or serving the motion on the other party) may be sufficient to cause them to dismiss the suit before a hearing on the merits. Under those circumstances, are there consequences for the dismissing party? The court in Moore faced this issue and presented it clearly: "This appeal addresses the question whether the plaintiff in a … [Read more...] about Can You File A SLAPP Suit And Then Dismiss It Without Any Consequences?