The Alien Tort Statute is a US law that allows foreign nationals to bring civil lawsuits in US federal courts for violations of international law, including human rights abuses and acts of torture, committed outside the United States. The statute has been used to hold individuals and corporations accountable for their actions in cases involving human rights abuses, environmental destruction, and other international law violations. However, the scope and application of the statute have been the subject of much debate and controversy.
The Alien Tort Statute is a U.S. federal law that allows non-U.S. citizens to bring civil lawsuits in U.S. courts for certain violations of international law, such as torture, genocide, or crimes against humanity.
Any non-U.S. citizen, including individuals, organisations, or corporations, can potentially bring a lawsuit under the ATS if they believe they have been a victim of a violation of international law.
Cases brought under the ATS typically involve human rights abuses, such as torture, extrajudicial killings, forced labor, or environmental destruction, committed by individuals, corporations, or even governments.
Yes, foreign governments can be sued under the ATS if they are found to have committed or aided in the commission of a violation of international law.
No, the ATS only applies to non-U.S. citizens. U.S. citizens cannot bring a lawsuit under the ATS, but they may be able to bring similar claims under other laws, such as the Torture Victim Protection Act.
Yes, corporations can be held liable under the ATS if they are found to have directly participated in or aided in the commission of a violation of international law.
Yes, the ATS allows lawsuits to be brought for actions that occurred outside the United States, as long as the alleged violation of international law has a sufficient connection to the United States.
The statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit under the ATS varies depending on the specific circumstances of the case and the jurisdiction in which the lawsuit is filed. It is important to consult with an attorney to determine the applicable statute of limitations.
Yes, a successful lawsuit under the ATS can result in monetary damages being awarded to the plaintiff. The amount of damages will depend on the specific facts of the case and the harm suffered by the plaintiff.
Yes, lawsuits under the ATS can be brought against individuals if they are found to have personally committed or aided in the commission of a violation of international law.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 12th April 2024.
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