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Media Advisory, May 25, 2011

Contact: Charlie Tebbutt, (541) 285-3717

New Orleans Court Hearing Will Include Arguments on $19 Billion Lawsuit Against BP Over Gulf Oil Spill

What: The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana will hear arguments on whether several groups of lawsuits filed against BP and others after last year’s Gulf of Mexico oil spill should be dismissed. The hearing will include arguments over the Center for Biological Diversity’s $19 billion Clean Water Act lawsuit filed against BP and Transocean.

When: Thursday, May 26. Oral arguments on motions to dismiss filed by BP and other defendants will follow the 8:30 a.m. status conference.

Where:  U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Louisiana, 500 Poydras Street, Room C-256, New Orleans, LA.

Who: The Center’s attorney for the Clean Water Act case, Charlie Tebbutt, will be among those presenting arguments on behalf of the plaintiffs. He will also be available for interviews.

Background: On June 18, 2010, the Center for Biological Diversity filed a lawsuit against BP and Transocean Ltd. for spewing millions of gallons of oil and other toxic pollutants into the Gulf of Mexico. The suit, filed in federal court in New Orleans, alleges the companies violated the Clean Water Act. The Center is seeking the maximum possible penalty against BP, and for the penalties to be used for Gulf of Mexico restoration. If the company’s violations are found to be the result of gross negligence or willful misconduct, BP’s liability could exceed $19 billion.

Attorney Charlie Tebbutt (see a photo here: http://charlietebbutt.com) will be available during breaks and after the hearing to discuss the Center’s case. To arrange an interview, please call (541) 285-3717.


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