JASTA Update: Saudi Arabia Moves to Dismiss Lawsuit Before Discovery Commences

In addition to representing our clients for their 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund claims, Barasch McGarry represents the majority of our clients in their lawsuit against the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (“Saudi Arabia”) for the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Pursuant to the Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act (“JASTA”), passed into law in 2016 over President Obama’s veto, federal courts may assert personal jurisdiction over foreign countries that substantially supports “directly or indirectly… foreign organizations or persons that engage in terrorist activities against the United States.” The practical effect of the legislation was to allow the continuation of a longstanding civil lawsuit brought by families of victims of the September 11th attacks.

Plaintiffs allege that Saudi Arabia “knowingly provided material support and resources to the al Qaeda terrorist organization and facilitating the September 11th Attacks…” The plaintiffs assert that Saudi Arabia financed and supported al Qaeda in the preparation and execution of the September 11th attacks. Specifically, plaintiffs assert that Saudi Arabia provided the hijackers with money, transportation, assistance with U.S. culture and language skills, and flying lessons.

Saudi Arabia has moved to dismiss the JASTA lawsuit on several grounds before any discovery has been allowed to commence. However, Barasch McGarry continues to fight for our clients’ legal rights and set the record straight. Our clients deserve their day in court. We have asked the Southern District Federal Court to allow discovery to take place so that we can get answers to questions that the 9/11 community has deserved to hear for over 16 years.