Have you heard the latest in the drug manufacturers industry? A California judge on Friday, October 20, threw out a $417 million verdict against pharmaceutical company Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:$JNJ) in a lawsuit by a woman who allegedly developed ovarian cancer after having used talc-based products, such as Johnson’s Baby Powder for feminine hygiene.
The ruling by Maren Nelson, L.A.’s Superior Court Judge, marks the latest hurdle facing women and family members who accuse Johnson & Johnson of not warning their customers about their talc-based product’s cancer risks.
The decision comes after a jury’s decision in August to smack Johnson & Johnson with the largest verdict to date in the litigation, thus awarding California resident Eva Echeverria $347 million in damages and $700 million in compensatory damages.
On Friday, Nelson reversed the verdict and approved Johnson & Johnson’s request for a new trial. According to Nelson, the trial in August was underpinned by a number of efforts and insufficient evidence on both sides.
What do the women have to say? Well, Mark Robinson, who represented the woman in her suit, said he would file an appeal immediately.
“We will continue to fight on behalf of all women who have been impacted by this dangerous product,” he stated.
Johnson & Johnson released a statement saying it was pleased with the verdict, and that it will continue to work to defend itself in forthcoming trials.
Featured Image: twitter
