Lawsuits designed to chill the valid exercise of the constitutional right of free speech or the right to petition, denominated as “strategic lawsuits against public participation” (or “SLAPP” suits), have taken on increasing significance over the last several decades. The classic example of a SLAPP suit is one filed by a large business against local activists to halt or impede the activists’ political or legal opposition to the company’s plans.     Read the article……………..