May 3, 2002


Nike Can't Just Say It, Court Rules

Law: Firms can be found liable for deceptive public statements, justices decide. Critics call the decision a blow to free speech.

   By MAURA DOLAN, TIMES STAFF WRITER
SAN FRANCISCO -- Corporations can be found liable for deceptive advertising if they make misleading public statements about their operations and conduct, the California Supreme Court ruled Thursday.