Define: Panel-Shopping

Panel-shopping refers to the practice of selecting a specific court or jurisdiction for a legal case based on the belief that it will provide a more favorable outcome.

Panel-shopping is generally considered legal, as parties have the right to choose the court or jurisdiction where they want to file their case. However, there may be certain restrictions or limitations imposed by specific laws or court rules.

People may engage in panel-shopping to increase their chances of obtaining a favorable judgment. They may believe that certain courts or jurisdictions have a history of ruling in favor of their particular legal position or have more favorable laws or precedents.

While panel-shopping may be legal, it can raise ethical concerns. It can be seen as a tactic to manipulate the legal system and undermine the principle of impartiality. Some argue that it can lead to forum shopping, where parties exploit different courts to gain an unfair advantage.

In some cases, panel-shopping can be challenged if it is deemed to be an abuse of the legal process or if it violates specific laws or court rules. However, successfully challenging panel-shopping can be difficult, as parties generally have the right to choose the court where they want to file their case.

Some jurisdictions may have limitations on panel-shopping to prevent abuse of the system. For example, certain courts may require a connection between the case and the chosen jurisdiction, such as the defendant’s residence or the location where the incident occurred.

Panel-shopping can potentially affect the outcome of a case. Different courts may have varying interpretations of the law or different precedents, which can influence the judgment. However, it is important to note that the outcome of a case ultimately depends on the merits of the legal arguments presented.

Panel-shopping can have disadvantages. It can lead to increased costs and delays, as parties may need to hire new attorneys familiar with the chosen jurisdiction’s laws and procedures. Additionally, it can create a perception of forum manipulation, which may negatively impact the party’s reputation.

Panel-shopping can potentially be used in various types of legal cases, including civil, criminal, and administrative matters. However, the availability and effectiveness of panel-shopping may vary depending on the specific jurisdiction and the nature of the case.

Instead of panel-shopping, parties can focus on building strong legal arguments and presenting compelling evidence to support their case. They can also consider alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation or arbitration, which may provide a more efficient and cost-effective resolution without the need for panel-shopping.