Liability

$100 Million Verdict Against Monsanto in Washington PCB Exposure Case, Jurors Divided on Liability

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Seattle, WA – In a significant court ruling against agricultural behemoth Monsanto, a state jury in Washington has awarded $100 million in damages for exposure to hazardous chemicals in a local school. The King County jury’s verdict came after a two-month trial, focusing on the health risks associated with long-lasting chemicals known as PCBs. Out of the hefty sum, $25 million was allocated as compensatory damages and an additional $75 million in punitive damages split among four plaintiffs. These individuals claimed harm from exposure to PCBs found in outdated fluorescent lights and building caulk at … Read more

Tara Pehush Appointed as New Partner at Venable’s New York Office, Enhancing Its Product Liability and Mass Torts Group

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New York, NY – Venable LLP has expanded its legal team with the addition of Tara Pehush as a partner in the New York office’s product liability and mass torts group. The firm, which made the announcement on Monday, is bolstering its capabilities in several key areas of litigation with Pehush’s hire. Pehush brings a wealth of experience in handling complex legal issues, particularly in the realms of products liability, commercial disputes, and toxic tort litigation. Her role at Venable will involve not only representing clients but also advising them on risk management strategies and … Read more

Top Litigator Kimberley Branscome Joins Paul, Weiss in Los Angeles, Bolstering Firm’s Product Liability Expertise

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Los Angeles – In a significant move for the legal industry, Kimberley Branscome, a distinguished product liability and mass torts trial attorney, has recently joined the ranks of Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison as a partner in their Los Angeles litigation department. This new appointment marks a key phase in Branscome’s illustrious legal career. Formerly holding leadership positions as office managing partner at Dechert LLP and partner at Kirkland & Ellis, Branscome brings extensive experience to her new role. She is noted for her expertise in managing complex litigation cases across various sectors, including … Read more

Court Reaffirms Trump’s Liability in Sexual Abuse Case, $5 Million Payment to E. Jean Carroll Pending Amid Appeals

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NEW YORK — A federal appeals court has recently affirmed a jury’s decision that Donald Trump sexually abused and defamed E. Jean Carroll, marking a significant affirmation against the former president. Carroll, 81, is now set to receive a $5 million award from Trump after a jury found him liable earlier this year. The judgment, while substantial for both parties involved, is just the beginning of a likely extended legal battle as Trump’s representatives have indicated intentions to continue the appeal process. The verdict, initially rendered in May 2023, compelled Trump to pay $5 million … Read more