Bill > HR5258

This bill amends Rule 11 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure to strengthen attorney accountability in legal proceedings. Specifically, the bill changes the language from "may" to "shall" regarding sanctions, which means courts will now be required to impose penalties for certain legal misconduct instead of having discretionary power. The bill mandates that when an attorney files a frivolous lawsuit or makes unsubstantiated legal claims, they can be compelled to pay reasonable expenses incurred by the opposing parties, including attorneys' fees and costs. Courts are also given additional flexibility to impose sanctions such as striking pleadings, dismissing suits, or directing payment of penalties. Importantly, the bill includes a rule of construction clarifying that these changes do not prevent the assertion of new legal claims or defenses, including those related to civil rights. The goal of the Lawsuit Abuse Reduction Act of 2025 appears to be discouraging meritless litigation by increasing potential consequences for attorneys who file such lawsuits.

Justice

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5258/all-info