Johnson & Johnson JNJ reportedly has an opportunity to challenge the scientific evidence linking talc to ovarian cancer, as U.S. District Judge Michael Shipp ruled on Wednesday.
In January, Johnson & Johnson announced a tentative settlement to address investigations by 42 U.S. states and Washington, D.C., regarding alleged misleading information about the safety of its talc products linked to cancer cases. The pharmaceutical giant is set to pay approximately $700 million.
This ruling, potentially affecting over 53,000 lawsuits against the company, follows recent legal and scientific developments necessitating a fresh evaluation of the evidence.
Shipp, who took over the case in February 2023, emphasized the need for a reexamination due to evolving laws and emerging scientific findings.
Citing J&J Worldwide Vice President of Litigation Erik Haas, Reuters highlighted the satisfaction with the ruling, aiming to scrutinize what he termed “made-for-court junk science” utilized in recent trials.
J&J has consistently refuted allegations regarding the carcinogenic properties of its talc products, including baby powder, denying any asbestos contamination.
However, lead lawyers for plaintiffs Leigh O’Dell and Michelle Parfitt maintain that the evidence implicating J&J products in cancer is now “stronger than ever,” alleging deceptive conduct by the company.
The talc lawsuits, previously halted from 2021 to 2023, resumed after failed attempts by J&J to address them through a subsidiary’s bankruptcy.
Recent trials, including one ending in a hung jury on March 5, underscore these cases’ legal complexity.
Under Shipp’s order, Johnson & Johnson has until July 23 to present renewed arguments regarding the scientific evidence.
These trials have seen varying outcomes, from significant plaintiff victories to overturned verdicts, reflecting the contentious nature of the litigation.
Last year, Johnson & Johnson’s executive disclosed recent settlements with several law firms regarding claims linking J&J talc products to cancer.
The aim behind these settlements is to pave the way for a consensual prepackaged bankruptcy resolution.
Price Action: JNJ shares are up 0.18% at $158.24 on the last check Thursday.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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