Updates on the Paraquat Litigation

Reg Reinoso

Author

July 2024 Paraquat Litigation Update: Significant Developments

Attorney Mikal Watts brings a vital update on the ongoing Paraquat litigation for July 2024, emphasizing the challenges and progress in this critical legal battle. Plaintiffs have faced a recent setback when Chief Judge Rosenstengel struck (meaning did not allow the testimony of) the general causation expert for the first four bellwether cases in the Paraquat litigation. This development led to the dismissal of these cases, as the necessary expert testimony to establish that Paraquat exposure can cause Parkinson’s Disease was not allowed to be presented as evidence.

Despite this hurdle for plaintiffs, the fight is far from over. The Plaintiff’s Steering Committee is preparing to introduce new expert witnesses in the upcoming wave of cases. These experts are expected to address the alleged deficiencies noted by the judge in the initial testimonies, enhancing the chances of court approval and success in future trials.

Clients Must Engage in Regular Communication with Us

The litigation process continues under strict court deadlines, requiring thorough and timely completion of discovery questionnaires from each plaintiff. It is crucial for clients to complete the Plaintiff Assessment Questionnaire (PAQ) for MDL cases or the Plaintiff Fact Sheet (PFS) for those in California State Court. This documentation is essential for building each case, making it imperative that all clients collaborate closely with the attorneys and staff of Watts Law Firm LLP to provide comprehensive medical treatment records, diagnosis details, and proof of Paraquat usage.

Moreover, the court has mandated that all clients provide proof of identification, necessitating that clients promptly submit a photo of their picture ID to facilitate the litigation process. 

Attorney Mikal Watts and the entire team at Watts Law Firm LLP express their gratitude for the trust and cooperation of their clients and remain committed to navigating these complex legal proceedings.

This update reaffirms Watts Law Firm LLP’s dedication to advancing each client’s case and achieving justice for those affected by Paraquat exposure.

This update is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice.