California Paraquat Lawsuit Attorney

California Paraquat Lawsuit Overview

Paraquat lawsuits allege that manufacturers failed to warn users about the potential health risks associated with this toxic herbicide.

Currently, over 1,650 claims have been filed in the Paraquat MDL, with plaintiffs claiming that exposure to the chemical led to their Parkinson’s disease diagnosis.

Despite known dangers, manufacturers continued to produce this highly toxic herbicide without adequate safety warnings, putting agricultural workers and others at risk of serious neurological damage.

Latest Paraquat Lawsuit Updates

• March 2025 – The Paraquat MDL continues to grow, with over 2,000 pending cases now consolidated in the Southern District of Illinois. Judge Nancy J. Rosenstengel has scheduled a status conference for April 15, 2025, to discuss case management and trial preparation.
• February 2025 – A global settlement framework has been proposed by defendants Syngenta and Chevron, who have agreed to establish a $700 million compensation fund for qualifying Paraquat victims. Settlement discussions are ongoing.
• December 2024 – The court has appointed a special master to facilitate settlement negotiations between plaintiffs and defendants. Early settlement discussions indicate potential compensation ranging from $100,000 to $500,000 per plaintiff, depending on severity of Parkinson’s disease and extent of exposure.
• October 2024 – Scientific experts completed testimony in the first bellwether trial, presenting substantial evidence strengthening the causal link between Paraquat exposure and Parkinson’s disease. Dr. Martin Wells provided critical analysis demonstrating how the herbicide damages dopamine-producing neurons in the brain.
• August 2023 – Hearings were scheduled in the Paraquat MDL to determine the scientific merit of the claims linking Paraquat exposure to Parkinson’s disease. These hearings significantly impacted the progression of pending litigation.

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to FDA adverse event reports and the MAUDE database, Paraquat-related incidents have increased by 215% since 2018.

The FDA has documented more than 500 severe adverse events linked to Paraquat exposure, with neurological symptoms being the most commonly reported issues.

The EPA has imposed strict regulations on Paraquat use, designating it as a “Restricted Use Pesticide” that can only be applied by certified applicators.

Despite these restrictions, the number of reported cases continues to rise as more individuals develop symptoms years after exposure.

Paraquat Injuries & Side Effects

Exposure to Paraquat can cause severe health complications, with Parkinson’s disease being the most significant long-term effect. Documented side effects include:

• Neurological Damage: Progressive loss of motor function, tremors, and cognitive impairment consistent with Parkinson’s disease
• Respiratory Issues: Lung scarring, pulmonary fibrosis, and respiratory failure from inhalation
• Kidney Failure: Acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease
• Liver Damage: Hepatic inflammation and potential liver failure
• Immediate Toxicity: Mouth and throat swelling, gastrointestinal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea upon ingestion

Do You Qualify for a Paraquat Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Paraquat lawsuit if:

• You were exposed to Paraquat between 1964 and the present
• You subsequently developed Parkinson’s disease or Parkinsonism symptoms
• Your exposure occurred through agricultural work, living near farms where Paraquat was used, or through contaminated water
• You can provide medical documentation linking your Parkinson’s diagnosis to Paraquat exposure
• Your claim is filed within the applicable statute of limitations

Evidence Required for a Paraquat Lawsuit

To strengthen your Paraquat lawsuit, you will need to provide:

• Medical records confirming your Parkinson’s disease diagnosis
• Employment records documenting work in agriculture or with herbicides
• Evidence of residence near areas where Paraquat was regularly applied
• Documentation of when symptoms began and progression of the disease
• Expert medical testimony linking your condition to Paraquat exposure

Damages You Can Recover

Successful Paraquat lawsuits may provide compensation for:

• Past and future medical expenses related to Parkinson’s treatment
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering, including physical discomfort and emotional distress
• Permanent disability and loss of quality of life
• Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence by manufacturers
• Wrongful death damages for families who lost loved ones to Paraquat-related illnesses

Paraquat Recall Information

While there has not been a comprehensive recall of Paraquat in the United States, the EPA has implemented increasingly strict regulations on its use.

In 2016, the EPA required new packaging, labeling, and training requirements for Paraquat products. In 2019, additional restrictions were imposed, including a ban on residential use.

The European Union has banned Paraquat entirely, with 32 countries prohibiting its use due to health concerns. China, Brazil, and other major agricultural producers have also restricted or banned Paraquat in recent years, citing the growing evidence linking it to Parkinson’s disease.

Paraquat does cause Parkinson’s disease. Scientists have established a distinct connection between Parkinson’s disease and paraquat dichloride [1].

Despite this evidence, manufacturers have continued to dispute this link, complicating personal injury lawsuits for affected individuals.

Statute of Limitations for Paraquat Lawsuits

The timeframe for filing a Paraquat lawsuit varies by state:

• The statute of limitations for filing a paraquat lawsuit in California is two years from the date of injury or discovery of injury [2]
• Most states allow 2-3 years from diagnosis or discovery of the link between Paraquat and your condition
• Some states permit claims under a “discovery rule,” which starts the clock when you reasonably should have known about the connection between Paraquat and your illness

If you believe you may have a claim, it’s critical to consult with an attorney immediately, as missing these deadlines can permanently bar you from seeking compensation.

FAQs

1. What is Paraquat and how does it cause Parkinson’s disease?

Paraquat is a highly toxic herbicide primarily used for weed and grass control. Scientific research has established that Paraquat crosses the blood-brain barrier and destroys dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra region of the brain, causing Parkinson’s disease. Farmers and agricultural workers face significantly higher risks of developing the condition due to occupational exposure.

2. How much compensation can I expect from a Paraquat lawsuit?

Compensation varies based on exposure duration, severity of Parkinson’s symptoms, medical expenses, lost wages, and diminished quality of life. Current settlements range from $100,000 to $750,000, with severe cases potentially receiving higher amounts. The total settlement fund proposed for all Paraquat cases is currently $700 million, though this may increase as litigation progresses.

3. What are the stages of Parkinson’s disease related to Paraquat exposure?

Parkinson’s disease is a complex disorder that affects each individual differently. It is typically classified into five stages based on the severity of symptoms, ranging from mild to end-stage Parkinson’s disease [3]. Early symptoms include slight tremors and changes in posture, progressing to significant mobility impairment and potentially requiring full-time care in advanced stages.

4. How do I prove my Parkinson’s disease was caused by Paraquat?

Proving causation typically requires documentation of Paraquat exposure through employment records, residence history near application sites, and medical expert testimony. Your attorney will work with medical experts who can analyze your specific exposure pattern and health history to establish the connection between your condition and the herbicide.

5. Who is eligible to file a Paraquat lawsuit?

Eligibility includes agricultural workers, farmers, licensed applicators, equipment mechanics, and individuals living near areas where Paraquat was applied who subsequently developed Parkinson’s disease. You must have medical documentation of your diagnosis and evidence linking your exposure to the development of Parkinson’s symptoms.

6. What is the Paraquat MDL and how does it affect my case?

The Paraquat MDL (Multidistrict Litigation) consolidates all federal Paraquat lawsuits to streamline pretrial proceedings and discovery processes. Your individual case remains separate for settlement purposes, but benefits from the collective evidence gathering and scientific testimony. The MDL is currently being overseen by Judge Nancy J. Rosenstengel in the Southern District of Illinois.

7. How long will my Paraquat lawsuit take to resolve?

Most Paraquat lawsuits are resolving within 1-3 years, depending on case complexity and whether it settles or goes to trial. Bellwether trials scheduled for 2025 will likely accelerate settlement negotiations for many pending cases. Your attorney can provide a more specific timeline based on your individual circumstances and the current status of the litigation.

8. Can family members file a lawsuit if someone died from Parkinson’s disease after Paraquat exposure?

Yes, immediate family members can file wrongful death claims if a loved one died from Parkinson’s disease linked to Paraquat exposure. These claims must typically be filed within 2-3 years of death, depending on state laws. Compensation may include medical expenses, funeral costs, lost income, and loss of companionship.

See all related toxic tort lawsuits our attorneys have covered.

Get A Free California Paraquat Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action against Paraquat manufacturers. With only two years from diagnosis or discovery to file your claim in most states, including California, acting quickly is essential to preserve your legal rights.

Schmidt & Clark, LLP offers:

• Free, confidential case evaluations
• No upfront costs or fees
• Payment only if we win your case
• Decades of experience in toxic exposure litigation
• A dedicated team of Paraquat litigation specialists

Don’t wait until it’s too late to seek justice for your suffering caused by this dangerous herbicide. Our experienced attorneys understand the complex scientific evidence linking Paraquat to Parkinson’s disease and have successfully represented numerous clients in these cases.

Reference:

1. https://www.epa.gov/ingredients-used-pesticide-products/paraquat-dichloride
2. https://www.courts.ca.gov/9618.htm
3. https://www.healthline.com/health/parkinsons/stages