Why can't we have a law in this country that says if you sue someone and lose you must pay all costs?

Question

They do this in most other western countries. It would save quite a bit on legal fees and insurance costs.

Answer 1

Simple, Trial Lawyers rule.

Answer 2

Wouldn't that be great!!  I wish we had that law too.  

Answer 3

Because that would dissuade people with legitimate claims from pursuing redress. Not every case that loses is a frivolous case. Sometimes they simply weren't able to prove their side. But telling people that if they lose they'll have to pay would have a chilling effect on the legal system. The only ones who would benefit would be the insurance companies, who I can promise would not lower their premiums, and the negligent, who could then do what they wish without fear of being held responsible.

Answer 4

It might seem nice, to not all of the frivilous lawsuits we have, and it would be nice, but passing a law like that would be a disadvantage to those with less money, as they would be unlikely to sue anyone even if they had a genuin reason.  It's a difficult situation.