|
|
N.J. high court: 'Super Lawyers' ads are protected speech
By The Associated Press
12.18.08
TRENTON, N.J. — The New Jersey Supreme Court has reversed a ruling that barred attorneys from being advertised as “the best lawyers in America” or similar superlatives.
The high court ruling stems from a 2005 case, in which a New Jersey attorney objected to an advertising magazine titled “New Jersey Super Lawyers” on the grounds it gave the impression that the attorneys it listed were more qualified than others.
A state Supreme Court committee ruled in 2006 that such magazines violated a state rule barring ads that are comparative in nature.
But the decision published yesterday holds that the ads are a form of commercial speech protected by the First Amendment.
The matter will now be taken up by three committees for expedited review and revision of the advertising rule.
Previous
N.J. high court gives 'Super Lawyers' temporary reprieve
Justices put hold on ruling that attorneys can't advertise in two top-lawyer lists while publishers challenge decision on First Amendment grounds. 08.21.06
Related
'Heavy Hitters' law firm wins free-speech ruling on ads
But New York state will appeal decision that would allow Alexander & Catalano, personal-injury attorneys, to advertise themselves using the term. 07.25.07
Federal judge: Web site is free to rate lawyers
Scores might not be worth much, but they're protected by the First Amendment, court rules in dismissing Seattle attorneys' class-action complaint. 12.20.07
Attorneys challenge tougher La. lawyer-ad rules
'You can regulate speech that is false, deceptive and misleading, but you can't regulate taste,' says Morris Bart, lawyer seeking to block regulations set to take effect Dec. 1. 10.28.08
La. attorneys ask judge to halt limits on lawyer ads
New rules, scheduled to take effect on Oct. 1, include restrictions on use of mottos, celebrity endorsements, re-enactments and client testimonials. 07.31.09
Federal judge backs most La. limits on lawyer ads
However, court throws out new rule limiting attorneys' use of celebrity endorsements, two others that govern lawyers' Internet ads. 08.04.09
Attorney ads
News summary page
View the latest news stories throughout the First Amendment Center Online.
Last system update:
Monday, February 8, 2010 | 16:04:04
|
|
|
Previous capture