Gramoxone/Paraquat Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Gramoxone: Paraquat Lawsuit Overview

Paraquat lawsuits have been filed against major manufacturers including Syngenta and Chevron, alleging that prolonged exposure to this herbicide is linked to an increased risk of Parkinson’s disease. 

According to recent scientific studies and epidemiological research, agricultural workers and individuals living near farms using paraquat face significant health risks.

The litigation continues to grow as more evidence emerges connecting paraquat to neurological damage.

Latest Gramoxone Lawsuit Updates

• July 9, 2025 – Syngenta agreed to settle a high-profile paraquat lawsuit brought by Douglas Nemeth, a plaintiff who claimed he developed Parkinson’s disease after decades of exposure to the paraquat (sold as Gramoxone) chemical as a farmer. The trial, which was set for August in Philadelphia, will no longer take place as a result of this undisclosed settlement, occurring amid broader efforts to resolve thousands of similar cases consolidated in multi-district litigation (MDL) regarding paraquat’s alleged link to Parkinson’s [1].

• April 15, 2025 – A major expose revealed that Syngenta’s strategy for handling lawsuits over its weedkiller Gramoxone involved hiring scientists to produce studies disputing links to Parkinson’s disease, and establishing a global defense campaign to protect the product’s reputation and its profits. Leaked internal documents showed the company’s behind-the-scenes efforts to counter mounting litigation and growing medical evidence about health risks [2].

• October 23, 2024 – Investigative reporting highlighted ongoing legal troubles for Syngenta over paraquat, documenting thousands of lawsuits alleging the weedkiller causes Parkinson’s disease. The article cited increasing pressure from claimants, recently disclosed internal communications, and rising concern among public health advocates about the widespread use of Paraquat in U.S. agriculture [3].

• November 28, 2023 – Hundreds of American farmers and families continued to file lawsuits against Syngenta and Chevron, alleging that exposure to paraquat (Gramoxone) caused or contributed to their diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. One known settlement amounted to $187.5 million, yet both Syngenta and Chevron denied scientific causation, while court proceedings featured emotional testimony from affected families across the country [4].

• October 20, 2022 – Leaked court documents revealed that internal Syngenta communications expressed doubts about Gramoxone’s safety and referenced longstanding suspicions from medical experts of a link between paraquat exposure and Parkinson’s disease. Despite these warnings, Syngenta continued to market and defend the herbicide, even as lawsuits and regulatory scrutiny intensified in multiple jurisdictions [5].

• September 13, 2021 – It was reported that Syngenta and Chevron potentially faced billions of dollars in liabilities as U.S. courts allowed claims to proceed against them over their marketing and distribution of paraquat-based herbicides. Analysts noted the possible scale of settlements or verdicts ahead, equating it with other major chemical liability cases in recent corporate history [6].

FDA Reports and Statistics

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and scientific databases have compiled critical data on paraquat:

• Over 32 countries have banned paraquat due to health concerns
• Approximately 3 million agricultural workers in the United States are potentially exposed to paraquat annually
• Studies indicate a 60% higher risk of Parkinson’s disease among individuals with significant paraquat exposure
• Estimated healthcare costs for Parkinson’s disease patients range from $25,000 to $100,000 per year

Paraquat Injuries & Side Effects

Individuals exposed to paraquat have reported a range of serious and potentially life-altering health complications:

• Parkinson’s Disease: Neurological disorder characterized by tremors, motor function impairment, and progressive neurodegeneration
• Neurological Damage: Cognitive decline, memory loss, and reduced motor skills
• Respiratory Issues: Lung damage and potential pulmonary fibrosis
• Oxidative Stress: Cellular damage leading to increased risk of neurological disorders
• Reproductive Health: Potential fertility issues and developmental risks

Do You Qualify for a Paraquat Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a paraquat lawsuit if:

• You were exposed to paraquat between 1990-2023
• You worked in agriculture, landscaping, or lived near farms using paraquat
• You have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease or related neurological disorders
• Your medical condition can be linked to paraquat exposure
• You can provide documentation of exposure and medical diagnosis

Evidence Required for a Paraquat Lawsuit

To build a strong case, the following evidence is typically needed:

• Comprehensive medical records documenting neurological diagnosis
• Employment or residential records proving paraquat exposure
• Agricultural or work history documentation
• Expert medical testimony linking exposure to health complications
• Scientific studies supporting the connection between paraquat and your condition

Damages You Can Recover

Potential compensation for paraquat lawsuit victims may include:

• Medical expenses for treatment and ongoing care
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Cost of future medical treatments
• Potential punitive damages

Paraquat Recall Information

While paraquat has not been entirely recalled in the United States, significant restrictions have been implemented:

• EPA imposed strict application guidelines in 2021
• Mandatory safety training for applicators
• Restricted use only by certified pesticide applicators
• Prohibitions on aerial application in most contexts
• Increased protective equipment requirements

Statute of Limitations for Paraquat Lawsuits

Statute of limitations varies by state but generally ranges from 2-3 years from:

• Date of diagnosis
• Date of discovering the link between exposure and health issues
• Some states have discovery rules extending filing periods
• Consult with a specialized attorney to understand your specific timeframe

FAQs

1. How is Litigation for Paraquat Cases Being Handled?

Paraquat lawsuits are being consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL), streamlining the legal process while maintaining individual case characteristics. The current MDL involves thousands of claims nationwide.

2. What Scientific Evidence Supports Paraquat-Parkinson’s Links?

Multiple peer-reviewed studies, including research published in environmental and neurological journals, have established a significant correlation between paraquat exposure and increased Parkinson’s disease risk.

3. What is the Average Settlement Amount for Paraquat Cases?

Settlement amounts vary based on individual case specifics, ranging from $100,000 to potentially over $1 million for severe cases with documented long-term health impacts.

4. How Long Does It Take to Resolve a Paraquat Lawsuit?

Typical timeline ranges from 18-36 months, depending on case complexity, scientific evidence, and potential settlement negotiations.

5. Can I File a Claim if Exposure Was Years Ago?

Many states have discovery rules allowing claims even for exposures from several years ago, based on when the health condition was discovered or diagnosed.

6. What Evidence Do I Need to Prove My Paraquat Case?

Critical evidence includes medical records, exposure documentation, expert testimony, and scientific studies linking paraquat to your specific health condition.

7. Are Family Members Eligible to File Claims?

Family members might be eligible to file loss of consortium or wrongful death claims in cases of severe health complications or fatalities.

8. How Do I Choose the Right Attorney for My Paraquat Case?

Select an attorney with specific experience in environmental toxin litigation, a proven track record, and resources to challenge major agricultural chemical manufacturers.

See all related toxic tort lawsuits our attorneys have covered.

Get A Free Gramoxone: Paraquat Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for paraquat-related health complications. Legal windows are closing, and evidence can become harder to collect over time.

Our firm offers:

• Free, confidential consultations with environmental litigation experts
• No upfront costs – we only get paid if you receive compensation
• Comprehensive case evaluation
• Access to medical and scientific experts
• Nationwide representation

Don’t delay seeking the compensation you deserve for paraquat-related health impacts.

References:

1. https://www.drugwatch.com/news/2025/07/09/paraquat-lawsuit-settled-weeks-before-start-of-landmark-trial/
2. https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2022/oct/20/syngenta-weedkiller-pesticide-parkinsons-disease-paraquat-documents
3. https://abcnews.go.com/US/burns-crisp-farmers-allege-link-popular-herbicide-parkinsons/story?id=102449723
4. https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-09-13/syngenta-chevron-could-face-billions-in-claims-over-weed-killer?embedded-checkout=true
5. https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/apr/15/syngenta-weedkiller-parkinsons
6. https://investigatemidwest.org/2024/10/23/herbicide-paraquat-sygenta-legal-troubles-parkinsons-disease-health-claims-lawsuits/