New York City paid out $563 million to settle lawsuits in 2009, falling one million dollars short of the record amount it paid out in 2001. The total went toward settling about 7,000 cases, some of which were frivolous enough that a jury would probably have thrown them out. But rather than risk a large reward, the city prefers to settle. You know, just in case you’re looking for a way to make some cash next year. [NYP]
