Can individuals be held liable for antitrust violations?

Yes, individuals can be held liable for antitrust violations in Washington. The U.S. Supreme Court established that individuals can be held liable under the federal antitrust laws in a 1975 case called Copperweld Corp. v. Independence Tube Corp. This case established that a corporate officer could be held personally liable for antitrust actions, and so can board members, executives, and even lower-level employees. The Sherman Act is the federal antitrust law that prohibits any contract, combination, or conspiracy that restrains trade or commerce in Washington. It is strictly enforced and those who violate it can face criminal and civil penalties. Individuals can be held liable for the same violations that businesses can, such as price-fixing, bid-rigging, monopoly practices, and illegal monopolization. Individuals found liable for antitrust violations can face heavy fines and jail time. In civil cases, the party accused of antitrust violations may be ordered to pay treble damages, meaning that the amount of damages are tripled as punishment for breaking the antitrust law. Individuals may also be prohibited from engaging in certain activities in the future, or may be excluded from certain industries. It is important to remember that individuals can be held liable for antitrust violations in Washington. It is essential to be aware of the antitrust laws and to make sure that they are followed, to avoid any legal consequences.

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