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No. In New Jersey, where I practice, we have statutes that protect referees from such claims. To my knowledge, many states have similar statutes, and the number is increasing. But keep in mind, that does not stop a creative lawyer from asserting a claim, even for a nuisance value. Don't forget, if there's insurance, the ground rule is (at least to some less than ethical lawyers), throw as much against the wall and see what sticks. And the insurance companies often don't want to litigate these claims because they are afraid of a renegade jury verdict. So they will settle even if the liability aspect is weak. Ask anyone who has ever been the subject of litigation, even if frivolous, and they will tell you that peace of mind has a value.
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