Today, a New Jersey judge will hear a case whose outcome will impact tens of thousands of mesothelioma and ovarian cancer victims. A federal bankruptcy judge will weigh Johnson & Johnson’s arguments for its subsidiary’s bankruptcy filing against the needs of people who blame the company’s talc-based products for their asbestos-related illnesses.
Johnson & Johnson Created Subsidiary in Response to Mesothelioma Lawsuits
Over the last several years, several mesothelioma victims and ovarian cancer victims have successfully filed lawsuits against Johnson & Johnson, accusing the company of failing to warn of the dangers of asbestos contamination in their talc products. Juries have awarded millions of dollars to plaintiffs who used the company’s iconic baby powder product, Shower-to-Shower bath powder, and others.
In response to mounting losses and tens of thousands of pending claims, the company established a subsidiary, LTL Management, and assigned liability for all mesothelioma and ovarian cancer claims related to its talc to the newly formed entity. They then filed for bankruptcy protection.
Bankruptcy Protection Would Alter the Compensation Available to Mesothelioma Victims
If the bankruptcy filing is successful, it will significantly diminish the amount of compensation available to approximately 40,000 people with pending mesothelioma and ovarian cancer claims. Attorneys for these victims are arguing against the move, pointing out that allowing the bankruptcy to move forward allows Johnson & Johnson’s to escape full responsibility for its own wrongdoing and leaves untold numbers of victims without justice.
In its argument against permitting the strategy to proceed, representatives for asbestos victims wrote, “This case was filed to shield Johnson & Johnson from liability for the production, marketing, and sale of carcinogenic products for decades.” The hearing is scheduled to last for five days.
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma or any other asbestos-related disease, the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net can help. Contact us today at 1-800-692-8608.
