HeplerBroom Secures Defense Verdict in Talc Case

In a significant legal victory, HeplerBroom has secured a defense verdict in a high-stakes talc case that captured national attention. After a grueling three-week trial, the St. Louis City Circuit Court ruled in favor of a major baby powder manufacturer, dismissing claims that the product caused ovarian cancer. The plaintiff sought hundreds of millions in damages, but HeplerBroom’s skilled defense team, led by partners Beth Bauer and Elizabeth Kellett, successfully countered the allegations. Discover how this landmark case unfolded and what it means for the future of talc litigation.

Three HB Attorneys to Play Key Roles in Asbestos Conference

Join us at the Midwest Asbestos Litigation Conference on September 19, where three distinguished partners from HeplerBroom will take center stage! With Brenda Baum co-chairing for the 11th year, and insightful discussions led by Greg Odom on mental health issues among attorneys and Anne Schmidt on mediating Madison County cases, this event promises to be both informative and impactful. These award-winning attorneys, recognized for their excellence in asbestos litigation and toxic tort matters, are eager to share their expertise. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your knowledge and network with industry leaders!

Missouri Appellate Court Reverses and Vacates Talc Judgment

In a significant legal development, the Missouri Court of Appeals has overturned a staggering $68 million judgment in the high-profile talc case of Deborah Giannecchini v. Johnson & Johnson. This ruling raises critical questions about personal jurisdiction, particularly as it pertains to claims made by a California resident against a New Jersey corporation. With insights from seasoned litigation attorney Beth Bauer, who played a pivotal role in the case, this article delves into the implications of the court’s decision and the complexities of defending against multi-party civil cases in the realm of talc and medical devices.

Three HB Attorneys to Play Key Roles in Asbestos Conference

Three of HeplerBroom’s asbestos litigation partners will play key roles at HarrisMartin’s annual Midwest Asbestos Litigation Conference, which will be held September 6 at the Four Seasons Hotel in St. Louis. Brenda Baum of the firm’s Edwardsville office is co-chair of the event. Rebecca Nickelson of the firm’s St. Louis office will present practice pointers for […]

Distributor of Electrical Conduit Owes a Duty to Wife of Consumer

In a significant ruling, the Madison County Circuit Court found that distributors of asbestos-containing products may owe a duty of care to users’ spouses, as seen in Iben v. A.W. Chesterton Company. This challenges traditional liability boundaries, especially as Graybar Electric Company sought to dismiss claims of secondary exposure. The court’s denial of Graybar’s Motion for Summary Judgment raises important questions about foreseeability and responsibility in asbestos cases. Explore the implications of this ruling on future liability.

Bauer Speaks at FDCC Winter Meeting

Beth Bauer, a distinguished trial attorney and partner at her firm’s Edwardsville office, recently took the stage at the 2018 Winter Meeting of the Federation of Defense & Corporate Counsel on Amelia Island, Florida. As the moderator of a dynamic panel, she shared invaluable insights on preventing litigation from escalating into mass actions, a critical concern for clients and insurers alike. With her expertise in complex civil cases and product liability claims, Bauer’s contributions to the legal field have earned her accolades such as Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent Attorney and recognition as an Illinois Super Lawyer. Discover more about her impactful work!

Missouri Court of Appeals Reverses and Vacates Judgment in Case Claiming that Talc Caused Plaintiff’s Ovarian Cancer

In a significant legal development, the Missouri Court of Appeals has reversed a staggering $72 million judgment in the case of Fox v. Johnson & Johnson, citing a lack of personal jurisdiction. This ruling stems from the U.S. Supreme Court’s precedent, raising critical questions about where plaintiffs can file lawsuits. With Ms. Fox hailing from Alabama and joining forces with other plaintiffs in St. Louis, the appellate court’s decision underscores the complexities of jurisdictional law. Discover the implications of this ruling and its potential impact on future cases involving personal jurisdiction. Read more to delve into the details!

Bauer Publishes Article on Sports-Related Concussion Litigation

Beth Bauer published an article in FDCC Quarterly, the scholarly publication of the Federation of Defense and Corporate Counsel on sports-related concussion litigation.  Bauer and her co-authors wrote “Ultimate Game Changer? Concussion Related Injuries and Litigation” and gave a presentation on the topic at the FDCC’s 2015 Winter Meeting in Amelia Island.  The paper informs readers of […]

Noce, Bauer, and Kellett Help Obtain Favorable Judgments from Missouri Court of Appeals on Innovator Liability Issue

On August 26, 2014, the Missouri Court of Appeals delivered a significant victory for HeplerBroom LLC, affirming summary judgment in favor of three pharmaceutical companies in two pivotal cases. Led by partners Gerard T. Noce and Beth A. Bauer, along with associate M. Elizabeth Kellett, the team tackled crucial questions surrounding innovator liability under Kentucky law. The court’s ruling clarified that a manufacturer cannot be held liable for products it did not produce, reinforcing the importance of establishing a direct link between the product and the harm. Discover the full implications of this landmark decision and its impact on the industry.

Economic Loss Doctrine? Alive and Well in Missouri

Are you tempted to turn breach of contract disputes into tort claims? Think again. The Eighth Circuit’s recent ruling in Dannix Painting, LLC v. Sherwin-Williams Company reaffirms the economic loss doctrine in Missouri, emphasizing that tort claims cannot replace contractual risk allocation. With a painting contractor’s negligent misrepresentation claim dismissed, the court highlights the importance of understanding the limitations of warranty provisions under the UCC. This decision serves as a crucial reminder for buyers and sellers alike: navigate your contracts with care to avoid costly pitfalls. Dive deeper into the implications of this ruling and protect your interests.