RAND Institute for Civil Justice

Since 1979, the RAND Institute for Civil Justice has been dedicated to making the civil justice system more efficient and more equitable. Our research is supported by pooled grants from corporations, trade and professional associations, and individuals; by government grants and contacts; and by private foundations. The Institute disseminates its work widely to the legal, business, and research communities, and to the general public.

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Research and Commentary

  • Legal gavel and leather binder on a desk

    The Role of Health Care Liens in Litigation and Recovery

    Nov 20, 2018

    Third-party liens have increasingly become an issue in resolving mass litigation events. As lien rights grow, liens will almost certainly become more frequent and command a greater share of recovery funds.

  • An injured man and his wife examine a bill

    Tax Reform Could Raise Car Insurance Rates

    Feb 4, 2018

    The new tax law eliminates the individual mandate. When this repeal takes effect in 2019, millions more Americans are expected to go without health insurance. Auto insurers will likely pick up the tab for some of that population's medical care. That could raise car insurance premiums.

  • Stack of documents held with bulldog clip

    Contingent Fee Litigation in New York City

    Jan 30, 2018

    Analysis of "closing statements" in New York state courts from 2004–2013 show settlement rates in the state are very high relative to previous studies, that claims are disproportionately from poor neighborhoods, and that attorneys' fees are almost always one-third of net recovery, which is the maximum allowed by law, among other findings.

  • An EMT loading a patient into an ambulance

    The Effect of Health Insurance Coverage Expansions on Auto Liability Claims and Costs

    Dec 18, 2017

    How do the Affordable Care Act health insurance coverage expansions affect payment for medical care provided through liability insurance, such as auto insurance?

  • A composite image of business people meeting around a table and symbols representing concepts related to compensation.

    Emerging Trends in Compensation for Widespread Losses

    Dec 4, 2017

    In a consumer society where widespread losses can easily occur, the processes and procedures for providing compensation to large numbers of claimants are very important. This conference explored issues that affect the speed, efficiency, and fairness with which the compensation system operates in the United States.

  • Crude oil spill on a beach

    Alternatives to Civil Litigation for Assigning Responsibility Following a Catastrophe

    Nov 28, 2017

    What are alternative means of assigning responsibility following a catastrophic event and providing just compensation? How might policymakers respond after a major adverse event should they conclude traditional civil litigation is not the best approach?