Presentation and lunch- Class Action in Japan

Summary of the Presentation Consumer damages are usually difficult if not impossible to be recovered due to various obstacles such as the burden of legal cost and the lack of incentive to initiate claims against businesses. These difficulties have been recognised in both the EU and Japan. In February 2012, the European Parliament adopted a resolution to recommend the introduction of collective action, which is brought by designated bodies within the opt-in system. The Japanese government also submitted a new bill to Parliament in April 2013 to introduce a new collective litigation scheme brought by designated consumer organisations. This talk introduces the background and outline of this new bill and analyses the possible impact of such a bill.

About the Speaker

Mr. Tomokazu Otaka has extensive experience in advising businesses and consumers on all aspects on the validity of consumer contract terms, appropriateness of expressions, statements on displays and advertisements of various products and services under Japanese law. He has also conducted legal research for foreign companies operating or considering business in Japan on consumer protection frameworks. Mr. Otaka Tomokazu is a current member of the consumer contract division of the consumer protection committee in the Japan Federation of Bar Associations (JFBA) and has previously worked two years at the consumer policy making division of the Japanese Government.

About the Organiser
The British Japanese Law Association (“BJLA”) is a bilateral law association which exists to promote understanding and exchange of knowledge between British and Japanese lawyers. It holds regular lectures, seminars and social events in London.

 

Pre-lunch session (free), Lunch £30