Sapient, not sentient. Sci-fi has co-opted the word, but sentient basically means able to feel emotions. There are plenty of sentient species right here at home. Sapient is the word sci-fi usually wants, there are no known sapient species aside from humans. Though some may argue that a couple other animals may qualify, it’s a very fuzzy concept that is hard to identify with a being unable to communicate abstract concepts.
The litigousness of the US is greatly exaggerated. Largely by big companies, trying to close off the one resource common folk have in dealing with them if they ever screw us over. Meanwhile, large conpanies file roughly 4 times as many suits than individuals, and are reprimanded for frivolous suits far more often.