The Stella Awards

March, 2003

In 1992 79-year-old Stella Liebeck spilled a cup of McDonald's coffee on her lap, burning herself. A New Mexico jury awarded her $2.9 million in damages (later reduced by a judge). Online, the name Stella has become shorthand for an outrageous or ridiculous lawsuit. One site, StellaAwards.com, honors those who spectacularly misuse the legal system. We asked its creator, Randy Cassingham, to share the stories behind some recent honorees:Sour TasteIn 1993 the FDA approved Propulsid for treatment o...