ABSTRACTCurrently there are no empirical studies objectively investigating the overall collective perception and/or attitudes of lawsuit abuse and its impact. A major concern is the lack of a clear understanding of the term “lawsuit abuse.” This study identifies the constructs or the underlying abstract dimensions (factors) that represent the multidimensional relationships that operationally define lawsuit abuse as perceived by lawyers, business people, and the public. This study produces a valid and reliable survey instrument that can be used to better understand and address lawsuit abuse issues. Results of the survey indicate that lawsuit abuse proponents are successful in their advertising campaigns in convincing the public about the harm of lawsuit abuse issues. Bar associations may need to take a more proactive stance stating the lawyers' position concerning lawsuit abuse to avoid legislation designed to govern the awards resulting from punitive suits.