Former judge sues over proposal on damages

LITTLE ROCK — A former Arkansas judge is challenging a ballot measure that would cap damages awarded in lawsuits and would give the Legislature control over court rules in the state.

Former Pulaski County Circuit Judge Marion Humphrey filed a lawsuit Thursday challenging a proposed constitutional amendment the Legislature voted to put on the November ballot. The measure limits damages that can be awarded in civil lawsuits

and the contingency fees attorneys can receive in those suits.

The measure also would give the Legislature power to change, repeal or adopt rules for the state’s courts.

Humphrey’s lawsuit claims the measure violates the constitutional separation of powers between the legislative and judicial branches. He’s asking a Pulaski County judge to disqualify the measure and prevent election officials from counting any votes for it.