Litigation

Johnson & Johnson Faces Major Setback in Talc Litigation After Bankruptcy Court Ruling

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BASKING RIDGE, N.J. — A federal judge’s rejection of Johnson & Johnson’s bankruptcy plan marks a significant moment in the ongoing legal struggles over the company’s talcum powder products. The decision underscores the complexities surrounding mass tort claims, particularly in cases involving bankruptcy filings designed to manage large-scale lawsuits. This ruling comes as Johnson & Johnson faces approximately 38,000 claims linked to allegations that its talc products caused cancer. The company had sought bankruptcy protection for its talc division in 2021, aiming to create a settlement fund while halting litigation pressures. However, the judge found … Read more

Johnson & Johnson Faces Backlash as Bankruptcy Court Ruling Undermines Talc Litigation Defense

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Wilmington, Delaware — Johnson & Johnson faced a significant legal loss recently, as a bankruptcy judge ruled against the company’s attempt to shield itself from thousands of lawsuits alleging that its talcum powder products lead to cancer. This defeat underscores growing challenges for corporations seeking refuge in bankruptcy courts amid rising public scrutiny over tort liabilities. The ruling came after the pharmaceutical giant had filed for bankruptcy protection under a controversial strategy known as the “Texas Two-Step.” This maneuver allowed J&J to transfer liability for its powder products to a newly created subsidiary, hoping to … Read more

Kirkland & Ellis Expands Philadelphia Footprint with Strategic Hire in Pharmaceutical Litigation

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Kirkland & Ellis LLP is expanding its presence in Philadelphia, adding a new litigator to its team who has a strong focus on representing pharmaceutical and medical device companies in liability cases. This announcement marks a significant step for the firm, just months after it made its initial entry into the Pennsylvania market. The litigator, whose expertise lies in navigating complex regulatory environments, is expected to enhance the firm’s ability to support clients in managing product liability risks and compliance issues. This strategic hire reflects Kirkland & Ellis’ commitment to strengthening its practice in a … Read more

Veteran Litigator Burt Snell Joins Kirkland & Ellis to Strengthen East Coast Litigation Team

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PHILADELPHIA — Burt Snell, a prominent attorney specializing in product liability and mass tort litigation, has joined Kirkland & Ellis as a litigation partner. His new role aims to enhance the firm’s presence in East Coast litigation, following a significant tenure at Butler Snow. Snell spent nearly 14 years at Butler Snow, where he served as a partner. His impressive legal career also includes nearly a decade at Dechert, another well-regarded law firm. The announcement of his hiring was made on August 12. Kirkland & Ellis, a global leader in the legal industry, continues to … Read more