As we step into 2024, the Roundup litigation landscape continues to evolve, presenting both challenges and opportunities for legal teams and affected individuals. This year brings forth significant developments in ongoing cases, regulatory actions, and public awareness, shaping the trajectory of Roundup litigation in profound ways.
Recent Victories in Roundup Weedkiller Cancer Trials
In recent court proceedings, Bayer has secured significant victories in Roundup weedkiller cancer trials, marking a notable development in the ongoing legal battle surrounding the product.
Pennsylvania Trial Verdict
In a trial held in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas, Bayer emerged victorious against a lawsuit brought by a retired postal service worker in Pennsylvania. The plaintiff alleged he developed non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma from using Roundup. Despite the plaintiff’s claims, Bayer successfully defended the safety of Roundup and its products in this trial. [1]
California Lawsuit Withdrawal
Additionally, in California, a farmer and his wife voluntarily dropped their lawsuit against Bayer while a trial was ongoing in state court in Sonoma County. The plaintiffs claimed that the farmer developed the same type of cancer from exposure to Roundup. However, they chose to withdraw their case for reasons that were not immediately clear. [2]
Bayer’s Confidence and Legal Strategy
Bayer reiterated its confidence in the safety of Roundup and expressed its commitment to defending its products and actions in any future litigation. However, Scott Love, the lawyer representing the plaintiff in the Pennsylvania case, highlighted that the jury did not have access to crucial evidence, such as a finding by a World Health Organization body indicating that glyphosate, Roundup’s active ingredient, was likely capable of causing cancer. [3]
Trial Outcome and Litigation Landscape
These recent victories for Bayer come after the company’s success in another trial in Arkansas. Bayer has now prevailed in 13 out of the last 20 Roundup trials, even as plaintiffs have secured substantial verdicts totaling over $4 billion, including a $2.25 billion award in a single case in January.
Continued Legal Challenges and Resolution Efforts
Despite these wins, Bayer continues to face significant legal challenges, with approximately 165,000 claims pending in the U.S. related to Roundup. While many of these claims were resolved as part of a $9.6 billion settlement in 2020, around 54,000 cases remain unresolved. [4]
Bayer’s Strategic Approach
Bayer’s CEO, Bill Anderson, addressed investors, indicating that the company is exploring various options to bring closure to the litigation, including potential solutions outside the courtroom. Additionally, Bayer phased out sales of glyphosate products for home use last year but continues to sell other formulations under the Roundup name.
The Impact of Outsourcing for Mass Tort Support
In navigating the complexities of Roundup litigation, legal teams rely on comprehensive support services to effectively manage cases and advocate for the rights of affected individuals. At Alert Communications, we offer a range of services tailored to meet the needs of legal professionals involved in Roundup litigation:
- Legal Intake Services: Our 24/7 answering service promptly answers every call and web lead, providing potential clients with the support and information they need, regardless of the time of day.
- Lead Qualification: Our intake specialists are trained to qualify leads efficiently, ensuring that legal teams can focus on viable claims and maximize their resources.
- Scheduling Services: We assist legal teams in scheduling appointments and consultations, streamlining the intake process and enhancing the client experience.
- Follow-Up and Engagement: Our specialists follow up with questionnaire respondents, reducing drop-off rates and increasing appointment bookings, optimizing the intake process.
- Reporting and Analytics: Through detailed reporting and analytics, legal teams can track key metrics, monitor the performance of marketing campaigns, and capitalize on every opportunity to grow revenue.
Schedule An Appointment For Mass Tort Intake and Case Management Support
2024 marks a pivotal juncture in Roundup litigation, characterized by ongoing legal battles, regulatory scrutiny, and increasing public awareness. At Alert Communications, we remain committed to supporting legal teams in effectively managing Roundup cases, identifying viable claims, and advocating for the rights of affected individuals. Through our comprehensive support services and dedication to excellence, we empower legal professionals to navigate the evolving landscape of Roundup litigation with confidence and integrity. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Sources:
1. Forbes. Roundup Lawsuit Update March 2024.
https://www.forbes.com/advisor/legal/product-liability/roundup-lawsuit-update/
2. Bayer. Managing the Roundup™ Litigation.
https://www.bayer.com/en/roundup-litigation-five-point-plan
3. Consumer Notice. Roundup Lawsuits.
https://www.consumernotice.org/legal/roundup-lawsuits/
4. Reuters. Bayer notches more wins in Roundup weedkiller cancer trials.
https://www.reuters.com/legal/bayer-notches-more-wins-roundup-weedkiller- cancer-trials-2024-03-06/
