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Article
Framing Frivolous Litigation: A Psychological Theory
University of Chicago Law Review
  • Chris Guthrie
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2000
Keywords
  • frivolous suits,
  • psychological leverage,
  • low probability,
  • risk-seeing behavior
Abstract

This Article uses an often-overlooked component of prospect theory to develop a positive theory of frivolous or low-probability litigation. The proposed Frivolous Framing Theory posits that the decision frame in frivolous litigation induces risk-seeking behavior in plaintiffs and risk averse behavior in defendants. Because plaintiffs in frivolous litigation have a greater tolerance for risk than the defendants they have sued, plaintiffs in frivolous litigation have "psychological leverage" in settlement negotiations, which is likely to lead to plaintiff-friendly settlements or bargaining impasse. This in turn, suggests that reformers concerned about frivolous litigation should target reform efforts at plaintiffs' decisionmaking in frivolous suits. e

Citation Information
Chris Guthrie. "Framing Frivolous Litigation: A Psychological Theory" University of Chicago Law Review Vol. 67 (2000) p. 163 ISSN: 0041-9494
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/chris-guthrie/25/