21.   Plaintiffs attorneys said last week they asked representatives of another manufacturer, Baxter International, to leave the negotiations because of their intransigence.

22.   Still, plaintiff attorneys and state attorneys general want the insurers involved.

23.   The American Trial Lawyers Association of America has put together a working group so plaintiff attorneys can share information and possibly join forces.

24.   The attorneys general, along with a group of private plaintiffs attorneys, last met with tobacco executives and attorneys last week in Chicago.

25.   The other was done by plaintiffs attorney Cynthia Chapman and a staff member.

26.   Tobacco industry attorneys are seeking a directed verdict for the defense after plaintiffs attorneys Stanley and Susan Rosenblatt wrapped up their case more than a week ago.

27.   Today is the deadline for plaintiffs attorneys to seek class action status for their suit.

28.   Plaintiff attorneys had assured Korman the proposal was fair and was supported by the majority of claimants.

29.   Plaintiff attorney attacks defense expert credibility.

30.   Company spokeswoman Jill Bratina and plaintiffs attorneys characterized the talks Wednesday as preliminary.