Merton Howard Speaking at International Association of Defense Counsel (IADC) Annual Meeting

In today’s interconnected global marketplace, the interplay between product regulation and product liability has become increasingly complex, presenting significant challenges and opportunities for both external and in-house counsel. This presentation will explore how evolving regulatory frameworks, such as safety standards and reporting obligations, directly impact liability exposure in diverse jurisdictions. From navigating the consequences of non-compliance to leveraging regulatory compliance as a defense in litigation, we will provide actionable insights into aligning legal strategies with corporate risk management. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how regulatory developments, such as emerging ESG requirements and stricter product safety laws, are reshaping liability landscapes and influencing counsel’s approach to proactive risk mitigation.

The session will also examine the practical implications for counsel on the ground, highlighting key considerations for cross-border product recalls, multi-jurisdictional litigation, and maintaining effective communication between legal, compliance, and operational teams. Real-world examples will illustrate best practices for external counsel advising on regulatory investigations and for in-house counsel managing internal processes and external risks.

Learning Objectives:

• An understanding how evolving regulatory frameworks, such as safety standards and reporting obligations, directly impact liability exposure in diverse jurisdictions.
• Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how regulatory developments, such as emerging ESG requirements and stricter product safety laws, are reshaping liability landscapes and influencing counsel’s approach to proactive risk mitigation.
• Real-world examples will illustrate best practices for external counsel advising on regulatory investigations and for in-house counsel managing internal processes and external risks.

Merton Howard: "​Bridging Compliance and Consequences: Navigating the Intersection of Product Regulation and Liability"