This 22-page summary report written for environmental attorneys and their clients focuses on the development of defense strategies in an environmental case. Featured in this report are the steps that should be taken to defend an environmental case from the initial evaluation of the case to negotiating a settlement. Leading environmental attorneys cover the various types of environmental cases and the manner in which attorneys should work with the client to negotiate the best possible settlement. This report defines the characteristics of an effective attorney—one who advises the client on when to litigate and when to settle, and explains alternative strategies to litigation to the client, always taking into consideration litigation cost, public image, and future relations with the government. Other topics include how environmental litigation cases are initiated; frivolous cases; damages; contribution and hazardous exposure claims; contribution litigation; cleanup liability; Superfund; toxic tort and hazardous exposure litigation; future areas of litigation; offsite contaminant impact litigation; permit programs; technical consultants; and third-party companies. This Executive Report is written by: 1. Michael L. Robinson, Partner, Warner Norcross & Judd LLP, "Defense Strategies for Environmental Litigation"; 2. Grant P. Gilezan, Member and Environmental Practice Group Leader, "Dykema Gossett PLLC, Areas of Environmental Litigation"; 3. Richard S. Wiedman, Member and Chair, Environmental and Energy Department, Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott LLC, "An Overview of Environmental Litigation"; 4. Henry W. Ipsen, Partner, Holme Roberts & Owen LLP, "Working with the Client to Develop a Defense Strategy"; 5. David A. Shorr, Partner, Lathrop & Gage LLC, "Strategies for Approaching Environmental Litigation." About Executive Reports: Executive Reports offer focused, hard-hitting advice from the leaders of some of America"s top companies, packaged in a concise, readable format. Each research report provides readers with 3 to 5 strategies that will have a direct financial impact on their business. While not meant as a comprehensive guide, each report includes quick-hit items that can immediately impact specific business strategies. Executive authors drill down to the central issues surrounding each topic area and dispense expert advice in concise, direct language. Executive Reports feature leading professionals selected by the Aspatore Editorial Board based on their experience, research, and standing within the professional community.