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Earlier this month, Johnson & Johnson experienced its first loss in a talcum powder lawsuit related to asbestos after a New Jersey jury ordered the pharmaceutical company and its talc supplier to pay $37 million in damages to Stephen and Kendra Lanzo. Furthermore, punitive damages will be considered in the second phase of the trial, which started a few days after this ruling.
The jury awarded $30 million to Stephen, who claims he developed mesothelioma after using Johnson & Johnson Shower to Shower and Baby Powder products from 1972 to 2003. On the other hand, Kendra was awarded $7 million in damages.
The company was held 70 percent liable in the case, which means that are required to pay $25.9 million. Imerys SA, a talc supplier based in France, is liable for the remaining 30 percent, or $11.1 million.
On November 16, J&J obtained a landmark victory in the first trial centering on claims that the company’s product contained asbestos. The Los Angeles Superior Court jury ruled in favor of company and Imerys in the lawsuit filed by Tina Herford, who claimed she developed mesothelioma after using J&J’s Baby Powder and Shower to Shower talc products during a 35-year span.
The company continues to deny that its products ever included traces of asbestos fibers or caused cancer. In Lanzo’s case, represents of J&J came up with various theories for the source of Stephen Lanzo’s mesothelioma, which includes the fact that 60 feet of asbestos-wrapped pipe was found in the basement of his childhood home.
Originally Lanzo’s trial was supposed to start in early January, but was delayed after a pretrial evidentiary dispute involving the plaintiff’s tissue sample. According to reports, the sample showed the presence of a type of asbestos used in commercial settings and not associated with prior talc cases. However, the judge ruled that the sample could not be used due to being a late introduction.
Gwen Myers, Imerys spokeswoman, said the company plans to appeal the verdict.
J&J currently faces over 6,600 talc-related lawsuits. The vast majority of these cases believe the company’s products cause women to develop ovarian cancer.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease because of continuous use of a Johnson & Johnson product over a long period of time, contact our Florida lawyers at The Ferraro Law Firm today.
Frequently Asked Questions
01.
How do I know if I need a mesothelioma lawyer for my case?
If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma or suspect that you were exposed to asbestos in a work setting or through asbestos containing products, speaking with a mesothelioma lawyer can help clarify your legal rights. At Ferraro Law, we assess the details of your situation, identify companies responsible, and explain the legal process so you can determine if pursuing a mesothelioma claim aligns with your needs. This initial guidance provides a clear direction for mesothelioma victims seeking meaningful support.
02.
What can I expect from working with a mesothelioma law firm?
03.
Will I need to go to court if I’m seeking compensation for asbestos exposure?
04.
How long does asbestos litigation usually take?
05.
How can a mesothelioma law firm help me handle the financial burdens of my illness?
06.
How do I know if my asbestos exposure is connected to my mesothelioma diagnosis?
07.
Is it too late to file a mesothelioma claim if I was diagnosed years ago?
08.
What if I’m not sure which companies are responsible for my asbestos exposure?
09.
Can a mesothelioma law firm assist if my loved one passed away from asbestos-related illness?
10.
Can Ferraro Law handle my case if I live outside of Florida?
Absolutely. We represent clients nationwide. Our extensive experience in complex litigation and specialized claims means that we can effectively advocate for your rights, no matter where you live.
11.
Will hiring a mesothelioma lawyer add to my financial strain?
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When individuals and families face the challenges of mesothelioma and asbestos exposure—coping with complex treatments, escalating costs, and emotional strain—they turn to Ferraro Law for clarity, guidance, and steadfast support. Through meticulous case preparation, empathetic counsel, and strategic representation, our attorneys build compelling cases that secure meaningful settlements to cover medical expenses, provide financial relief, and offer a path toward stability during difficult times.
Ferraro Law is wonderful and I am forever grateful to them. My attorney Daniel Di Matteo fought like a tiger for me against a multibillion dollar corporation and obtained a substantial settlement for me. This settlement is life changing for me. If you need an attorney call Ferraro Law and if you’re lucky Daniel will take your case.
Florence T.
Not too long ago I picked up the phone and called the Ferraro Law Firm not quite knowing what to expect. From the moment I reached out, the team made me feel heard and taken care of — not just like another case walking through the door.
Nikki Hurtado was my first primary contact. After speaking with her I knew that I had picked the right firm. She walked me through the process in plain understandable language. Even after numerous calls, she never made me feel like I was asking too many questions, and I always felt confident that my case was in expert hands.
My litigator was Daniel Di Matteo. If there was ever anyone that you would want by your side in a court of law, it would be him. He was everything that you would want in an attorney—calm, cool, always prepared, communicative and most importantly–experienced. He knew everything that was going to happen before it occurred but was prepared for any contingency. He is a fantastic attorney.
What really set them apart was their communication. I was kept informed at every stage — no chasing down updates, no wondering what was happening with my case. Calls and emails were returned promptly, and they proactively reached out whenever there was a development.
The professionalism of the entire team — from the attorneys to the support staff — was exceptional. Everyone I interacted with was kind, compassionate, and genuinely invested in my well-being, not just the outcome of my case.
And the outcome? Better than I could have hoped for. They fought hard on my behalf and secured a result that truly reflected the impact this injury had on my life.
You could ask for no better firm or attorney.
Keeth K.
Working with my attorney, Daniel J. Di Matteo was an exceptional experience from start to finish. His level of professionalism, attention to detail, and strategic thinking set him apart immediately. Every step of the process was handled with precision and clarity, and I always felt informed and confident in the decisions being made.
What truly stood out was his ability to navigate complex situations with confidence and deliver results that exceeded my expectations. He was not only highly knowledgeable but also genuinely committed to protecting my best interests.
If you’re looking for an attorney who is sharp, responsive, and truly operates at a high level, I highly recommend him without any hesitation.
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My name is Page. I am putting a five star review of my experience with Ferraro law group and my attorney Daniel J. Di Matteo. His professionalism and compassion and diligence for my case was outstanding. I am very happy that I put my trust in their very capable hands.
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