For two years, mesothelioma and ovarian cancer lawsuits accusing Johnson & Johnson of negligently selling asbestos-contaminated powder have been delayed by bankruptcy proceedings. But with the hold lifted, cases have begun being heard across the country, and this week an Illinois jury awarded a victim’s survivors $45 million in compensation.
Woman’s Mesothelioma Blamed on Talc in Baby Powder Product
There are over 40,000 mesothelioma and ovarian cancer lawsuits pending against Johnson & Johnson, all filed by victims or survivors who accuse the company of selling its iconic baby powder product despite knowing that its talc was contaminated with asbestos. In this case, a Cook County, Illinois jury heard testimony about the death of 53-year-old mother and grandmother Theresa Garcia.
In their mesothelioma claim, Ms. Garcia’s family claimed that the woman, who died of the rare asbestos-related disease in July 2020, six months after her diagnosis, had been exposed to the powder since childhood and had continued using it herself as an adult, and had used it on her children too. Information presented to the jury included evidence that the product contained asbestos fibers.
Johnson & Johnson’s Settlement in Mesothelioma Claim Rejected by Client’s Attorneys
Before the mesothelioma trial began, Ms. Garcia’s family was offered a settlement in the case, but rejected it because it would have required settlement of all of the asbestos claims their law firm was managing, as well as any cases it might manage over the next ten years. The settlement offer also required confidentiality and a statement indicating that the company had done nothing wrong. The attorneys refused the offer.
Speaking of the verdict, the family’s attorneys stated, “The defendants knew that talc contains asbestos impurities that were mined and put in the bottles of baby powder J&J sold. Not only did the defendants’ negligence and deceit cheat loyal customers like Theresa, but their deception has ultimately robbed a family of their mother.”
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma and you need assistance, contact the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net at 1-800-692-8608. We’re here to help.
