Waste Technologies, Inc. SLAPP Defeated
Mr. Pawa represented renown environmental activist Terri Swearingen in a lawsuit filed by the Waste Technologies, Inc ("WTI") hazardous waste incineration company. Ms. Swearingen, a registered nurse and mother in the Ohio River valley, had spoken out against the incinerator on grounds of public health and safety and had organized community opposition to the incinerator. She has received the prestigious Goldman Prize for her environmental activism. This highly controversial incinerator, located 1100 feet from an elementary school and 300 feet from the nearest homes, had been the subject of congressional hearings and received criticism from both Bill Clinton and Al Gore during their 1992 campaign stops in the Ohio River valley. Martin Sheen had previously participated with Ms. Swearingen and other citizens in civil disobedience against the incinerator. The WTI company claimed in its lawsuit against Ms. Swearingen that she had made false statements, filed improper legal claims against the company and interfered with the company's business relations. Mr. Pawa sought dismissal of the company's lawsuit on grounds that Ms. Swearingen's actions constituted free speech and the right to petition government on an issue of public importance. Mr. Pawa also sought a court order requiring the company to produce information in support of its claims. Facing deadlines on these motions, the company dismissed the case against Ms. Swearingen.
Endorsement
"In 1997, a hazardous waste corporation sued me for a million dollars for speaking out and taking action against its incinerator in my community. Matt Pawa defended me. I have worked with many lawyers over the years, but Matt Pawa is truly a standout. He doggedly pursued justice in my case and that was the key to success. He went on the offensive against the corporation by seeking early termination of the case on free speech grounds and by forcing the corporation to produce evidence in support of its case. The company dropped its suit in the face of his vigorous advocacy on my behalf. In addition, he communicated with me as an equal, seeking my input in the case and involving me every step of the way. Often lawyers are hard to reach, but Matt was always there for me, providing an added feeling of security during a time of extraordinary stress. It is obvious that Matt cares about people and the environment. He is a champion of the people. Matt Pawa has the potential to be another Clarence Darrow --- defending free speech, preserving democracy and protecting the rights of all citizens."
Terry Swearingen
Renown environmental activist