Michigan Talcum (Baby) Powder Lawsuit: Get the Right Attorney

If you’re from Michigan and questioning whether talcum powder use may have contributed to an ovarian cancer diagnosis, you may be entitled to participate in a lawsuit.

This article provides essential insights into the ongoing Michigan talcum powder lawsuit, revealing how they’re seeking justice for affected individuals and the type of compensation that might be available.

If the use of talcum powder has negatively impacted you or a loved one, our team at Schmidt & Clark, LLP, is ready to assist you.

As a top-tier law firm specializing in plaintiff representation, our principal goal is to ensure you secure the justice you deserve and the appropriate compensation you are entitled to.

Talcum Powder Lawsuit Overview

A talcum powder lawsuit revolves around the assertion that companies like Johnson & Johnson failed to warn the public about the cancer risk associated with talc-based products like baby powder.

The central talcum powder claims in these talcum powder cancer lawsuits are often centered around the alleged failure to warn consumers and the belief that talcum powder was safe due to the absence of warnings.

What is Talc?

Talc is a mineral comprising magnesium, silicon, and oxygen and is a primary component in various products, including Johnson’s talcum powder and numerous personal care products [1].

Its moisture absorption, friction reduction, and rash prevention properties make it an excellent ingredient in maintaining dry and comfortable skin.

However, its use in a talcum powder product, such as baby powder, has been linked to ovarian cancer in women. Beyond cosmetics, talc products find uses in the production of everyday items such as paint, ceramics, flooring, caulking, and roofing materials.

Active Ingredients Used in Talcum Powder Products

Talc is the primary component in talcum powder products. Its use has been associated with a heightened risk of ovarian cancer. Moreover, inhaling or using talcum powder tainted with asbestos can result in an increased risk of cancers, such as mesothelioma and ovarian cancer, and severe lung damage.

Current evidence does not indicate that talc poses a risk of harm or an increased cancer risk for most individuals, despite safety inquiries from the FDA.

Identifying Key Players: Brands and Companies Named in Talcum Powder Lawsuits​​

Johnson & Johnson, the behemoth of the baby powder market, is the primary player in talcum powder lawsuits. Their marketed baby powder products – including Johnson Baby Powder and Shower to Shower – have been at the center of several legal actions in the United States.

Despite safety concerns, Johnson & Johnson persisted in the production and marketing of these potentially hazardous products, such as Johnson talcum powder, without issuing supplementary warnings to consumers.

The company has faced significant legal consequences and financial compensation orders in several cases due to the adverse effects of its talcum powder products. As of next year, Johnson & Johnson has decided to discontinue the use of talcum powder in their products.

Individual Lawsuits vs. Class Action Lawsuits

In the context of talcum powder litigation, there are two main types of lawsuits: individual lawsuits and class action lawsuits. Individual cases involve a single plaintiff with a specific claim. At the same time, class action lawsuits seek compensation for the cost of the product and do not include personal injury damages or punitive damages.

Individual lawsuits offer plaintiffs greater autonomy and potential for increased compensation but may require more time and financial investment. In contrast, class action lawsuits provide efficiency and reduced expenses, but individual plaintiffs may receive lesser compensation and have limited influence on the case’s resolution.

Despite the type of lawsuit, individuals retain the option to file a talcum powder lawsuit with the help of talcum powder lawyers.

Talcum Powder Litigation: An Overview of the Battle Against Johnson & Johnson

Currently, Johnson & Johnson is grappling with 38,000 pending talcum powder lawsuits in a contentious bankruptcy proceeding.

Moreover, the Missouri Court of Appeals has upheld a $2 billion portion of the jury award against the company. An automatic stay is maintained to aid in the ongoing negotiations between J&J and the plaintiffs for a global settlement within the bankruptcy process.

J&J’s financial status has suffered due to the baby powder litigation, with the company incurring almost a billion dollars in legal fees. Additionally, the settlements and verdicts in baby powder lawsuits have further strained the company’s finances, leading to billions in payouts.

Current State of Litigation in Michigan

In Michigan, Johnson & Johnson is facing over 50,000 lawsuits related to talc, with the majority of cases concerning women diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

This staggering number of lawsuits is a testament to the widespread use of talcum powder products in the state and the devastating health consequences that have since surfaced.

It is important to note that the majority of these cases are brought forth by women who have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, a severe and often life-threatening disease.

This correlation between the use of talcum powder and the development of ovarian cancer has become a central point of contention in these lawsuits.

The Growing Number of Talcum Powder Lawsuits in Multidistrict Litigation

As of December 15, 2023, there are 53,729 pending talcum powder lawsuits in multidistrict litigation, indicating a significant volume of individuals pursuing legal recourse for their concerns.

This increase can be attributed to the growing awareness and claims from individuals seeking compensation for asbestos-related illnesses they believe were caused by using talcum powder products containing asbestos.

Johnson & Johnson’s Bankruptcy Strategy and Litigation Complexities

Johnson & Johnson’s approach to managing talc powder liabilities involves the following:

• Transferring the responsibility for these liabilities to a subsidiary entity within the framework of bankruptcy.
• The company’s efforts to address the lawsuits through bankruptcy, including a proposed $8.9 billion settlement, have been unsuccessful.
• The bankruptcy proceedings have resulted in substantial legal expenses for Johnson & Johnson.

In the event of bankruptcy holding, individuals affected will still receive settlement compensation payments. However, these payouts are expected to be reduced if the threat of significant jury awards is no longer present for J&J, and they can address these claims through bankruptcy proceedings.

The Link Between Talcum Powder and Ovarian Cancer

A comprehensive analysis of scientific studies has revealed the following findings about talcum powder and its potential risks:

• There is a 33% rise in cancer risk in women who utilize talcum powder products.
• Talc particles have been detected deeply embedded in cancerous tissue, highlighting the carcinogenic potential of talcum powder.
• Asbestos particles, known to cause ovarian cancer, have been found in talcum powder.

In legal battles against Johnson & Johnson, plaintiffs provided testimony regarding the consistent use of Johnson’s Baby Powder for feminine hygiene, resulting in diagnoses of ovarian cancer. Internal company records exposed Johnson & Johnson’s knowledge of the correlation between talc and ovarian cancer.

“IARC classifies the perineal (genital) use of talc-based body powder as “possibly carcinogenic to humans.”- American Cancer Society

Moreover, the disproportionate impact of targeted advertising by Johnson & Johnson has increased the likelihood of talcum powder use for vaginal hygiene among African-American women, contributing to a higher incidence of ovarian cancer in this demographic.

Does Talcum Powder Cause Mesothelioma?

Talcum powder does cause mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that impacts the tissue lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart, with asbestos exposure being the primary cause [2].

Talcum powder contaminated with asbestos has resulted in the development of mesothelioma in some users, leading to the filing of legal cases based on this connection.

Who Qualifies For a Michigan Talcum Powder Lawsuit?

Individuals who have used talcum powder products, have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer between the ages of 22 and 64, and lack genetic mutations such as the BRCA gene qualify for a Michigan talcum powder lawsuit.

Individuals in Michigan who have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer after using talcum powder or are family members of such individuals are eligible for legal representation in a Michigan talcum powder cancer lawsuit.

It’s important to note that many individuals who assume the statute of limitations has passed to sue Johnson & Johnson are mistaken.

Damages That You Can Recover From a Talcum Powder Lawsuit

Plaintiffs in talcum powder lawsuits can claim compensatory damages for injuries caused by the product, including reimbursement for medical expenses and lost wages. The average estimated settlement per plaintiff in a talcum powder lawsuit hovers around $500,000.

Furthermore, punitive damages are permissible in talcum powder lawsuits as a means to penalize the defendant for severe misconduct and to discourage future similar behavior.

Talcum Powder Lawsuit Settlement Amounts in Michigan

In Michigan, the most substantial talcum powder lawsuit settlement amounts are $55 million, $110 million, and $417 million. The typical compensation for talcum powder lawsuits in Michigan is estimated to be approximately $500,000 per plaintiff.

Factors that commonly impact talcum powder lawsuit settlement amounts in Michigan are:

• Physical and financial damages
• Medical bills
• Lost earning capacity
• Severity of disease
• Lost quality of life.

Filing a Michigan Talcum Powder Lawsuit

To begin a talcum powder lawsuit in Michigan, individuals, especially those with a diagnosis of ovarian cancer and a history of using talcum baby powder, must seek the counsel of a qualified ovarian talc cancer lawyer.

The evidence presented in talcum powder lawsuits involves demonstrating the alleged connection between talcum powder and cancer, particularly ovarian cancer.

In Michigan talcum powder lawsuits, expert witnesses significantly influence the outcome by offering scientific expertise and testimony on issues like causation and testing.

Types of Evidence Presented in Talcum Powder Lawsuits

Presented evidence in talcum powder lawsuits often includes internal manufacturer documents, product labels, scientific studies, and medical proof.

These pieces of evidence aim to demonstrate the presence of carcinogenic asbestos and the manufacturer’s knowledge about the true contents of talcum powder.

They also highlight the manufacturer’s awareness of potential risks, influencing product liability and lawsuits seeking to mandate warning labels on products.

Examining the Role of Expert Witnesses in Talcum Powder Litigation

In talcum powder litigation, expert witnesses bear the responsibility of:

• Providing the court with scientific and technical expertise
• Presenting evidence
• Analyzing data
• Offering professional opinions on matters related to talcum powder and its potential health risks.

Through their testimony, they aid the court and the jury in comprehending intricate scientific information and making well-informed decisions.

Michigan Statue of Limitation

The timeframe for initiating a talcum powder lawsuit in Michigan is contingent on specific circumstances. Generally, it is three years [3]. The start date of the statute of limitations is determined as two years from the date of the injury or within six months after.

It’s important to note that many individuals who assume the statute of limitations has passed to sue Johnson & Johnson are mistaken.

FAQs

How long does it typically take to resolve a talcum powder lawsuit?
The duration varies, but it can take several months to a few years to resolve due to the complexity of the cases and the need for thorough evidence gathering.

Are there alternatives to talcum powder that are considered safe?
Yes, alternatives such as cornstarch-based powders and other non-talc products are available and considered safer options for personal hygiene use.

What should I do if I suspect my cancer is linked to talcum powder use?
Consult a healthcare provider for a thorough medical examination and diagnosis. Then, seek legal advice to explore your options for filing a lawsuit.

Related Articles:

• Maine Talcum Powder Lawsuit
• Maryland Talcum Powder Attorney
• Massachusetts Talcum Powder Lawsuit

See all related product liability lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.

Get Your Free Consultation From a Michigan Talcum Powder Lawyer

If you or a loved one has developed ovarian cancer due to talcum powder exposure, we at Schmidt & Clark, LLP are ready to lend a helping hand. We have a wealth of experience in handling ovarian cancer cases like yours and are committed to guiding you every step of the way.

Understanding your legal rights and determining your eligibility for a lawsuit is crucial. We offer free consultations, and you will not incur any costs unless we secure a favorable outcome for your case.

Reach out to Schmidt & Clark today for a comprehensive review of your case. Allow us to be your trusted partner in navigating this challenging situation.

Reference:

1. https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-ingredients/talc
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4164883/
3. https://www.mwl-law.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/SOL-CHART.pdf