Mass Tort News LegalCast (Mass Tort News)
Explorez tous les épisodes de Mass Tort News LegalCast
| Date | Titre | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 23 Jan 2024 | Sexual Abuse Litigation Innovator with Adam Slater | 00:22:45 | |
In this LegalCast video, Adam Slater, a partner at Slater, Slater, and Schulman, discusses sex abuse cases. Adam shares his background, starting with his experience in mass tort law, particularly the 9-11 litigation, and highlights the growth of his firm to 11 offices with 70 lawyers. The conversation discusses specific cases, such as the Boy Scouts bankruptcy, where Adam's firm represents over 14,000 claimants. They discuss the challenges and progress in handling these cases, including the STAC committee and the $2.4 billion trust. Adam also touches on other cases like Camp Lejeune and burn pit litigation. The LegalCast explores institutional and commercial sex abuse cases involving major organizations like the Catholic Church and the Boy Scouts. Adam discusses his firm's involvement in parish and diocese litigations across the country, emphasizing the importance of holding institutions accountable for enabling abuse. The conversation expands to include other dockets, such as cases related to juvenile detention, medical settings, and Uber. Adam addresses the role of look-back laws in empowering survivors to come forward and discusses the need for strategic litigation to ensure fair compensation and discourage future abuse. Towards the end, Adam encourages smaller firms to collaborate and mentions the importance of having the right skill set when handling sex abuse cases. He shares information about his firm's involvement in cases across the country, particularly in California, and expresses openness to co-counseling and referrals. The LegalCast concludes with a mention of Slater, Slater and Schulman's extensive experience in 9-11 cases, inviting individuals affected by those events to reach out for legal assistance. Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights into the legal landscape surrounding sex abuse cases and highlights the ongoing efforts to seek justice for survivors.
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| 11 Jul 2023 | Rooted in Justice: Hair Relaxer MDL 3060 Insights | 00:47:34 | |
Maria Fleming is a complex litigation attorney with a focus on regulatory compliance. She works in the Cleveland, Ohio office of Napoli Shkolnik PLLC. Maria served as plaintiff trial counsel in the National Prescription Opiate Litigation MDL Bellwether trials of Lake and Trumbull Counties. In this role she was responsible for all of Plaintiffs’ exhibits to be introduced in trial and submitted to the jury. She also has experience leading depositions and motion practice involving opioid litigations across the country. On February 28, 2023, Judge Mary M. Rowland, U.S. District Judge for the Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division, issued an order (https://images.law.com/contrib/content/uploads/documents/292/144406/Hair-relaxer-hrg-nts-3.2.23-leadership-mtn-list-of-names.pdf) appointing Maria to a leadership position for the hair product litigation cases in MDL 3060: In Re: Hair Relaxer Marketing Sales Practices and Products Liability Litigation. Maria currently serves as part of the discovery subcommittee. As a regulatory litigator who has significant experience in mass torts, Maria shares her insights and involvement in the hair relaxer MDL 3060 In this interview with MTN, she discusses her journey into mass tort litigation, her role in the discovery committee, and the impact of hair relaxers on women of color. Maria shares some background about her career path, what she learned from her role in the opioid litigation, and the transition to the hair relaxer MDL. Maria's enthusiasm for learning and adapting to the ever-changing field of law shines through as she discusses the challenges and rewards of being a litigator. She shares her insights on mentorship and diversity, lauding her law firm - Napoli Shkolnik, PLLC - specifically Hunter Shkolnik, Paul Napoli, and Marie Napoli - for their innovative approach to diversity and inclusion, and to ensuring access to leadership opportunities and other professional development tools. As someone with experience using hair relaxers, Maria dives headfirst into the impact of hair relaxers on her own family members and other women of color. An open book, Maria candidly shares her own experience with hair relaxer, from her memories of using it throughout her childhood to that moment when she learned about the harmful effects of hair relaxer use and ceased all use of the product. Maria empathizes with her clients, many of whom have experienced fibroids and cancer (uterine or ovarian) due to the use of chemical hair relaxers. The video explores the deceptive marketing tactics employed by hair relaxer manufacturers, their failure to disclose potential harm, and the misrepresentation of their products' safety. Maria highlights the claims made in the hair relaxer lawsuits, including fraudulent misrepresentation, wrongful death, and the failure to adequately label or market the products. Don't miss this eye-opening discussion that sheds light on the hidden dangers of hair relaxers and Maria Fleming's dedication to seeking justice for those affected. Watch now to gain insights into the world of mass tort litigation and the impact it can have on individuals and communities.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-fleming-9b4236131/
https://www.napolilaw.com/attorneys/maria-fleming/
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| 09 Aug 2022 | Success: It's Not Magical or Mystical | 00:44:27 | |
SHOW NOTES: Based in Massachusetts, Tucker Merrigan serves as co-founder and co-managing partner of Sweeney Merrigan Law, LLP. Tucker specializes in plaintiff personal injury law, specifically mass torts relating to defective medical devices and opioids. Tucker has received national recognition for his litigation work. From 2018-2021, Super Lawyers recognized him as a Rising Star. The National Trial Lawyers also named Tucker to their Top 40 Under 40 Trial Attorney list for six years running (2015-2021). He is a member of the American Association for Justice, the Massachusetts Academy of Trial Attorneys, the Boston Bar Association, and Massachusetts Bar Association. Outside of running his law practice, Tucker enjoys volunteering as a “Big Brother” mentor at Boston’s Big-Brother Big-Sister Foundation. Merrigan intro page: https://www.sweeneymerrigan.com/about-our-law-firm/attorneys/j-tucker-merrigan/ Tucker Personal Socials: Sweeney Merrigan socials:
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| 01 Nov 2022 | Author Talk: Mike Magner on Camp Lejeune | 00:49:27 | |
Mike Magner holds decades of experience in news and currently serves as Editor at CQ Legal. Mike maintains special focus on environmental journalism, authoring two books on environmental negligence and abuse: Poisoned Legacy: The Human Cost of BP's Rise to Power in 2011, and A Trust Betrayed: The Untold Story of Camp Lejeune and the Poisoning of Generations of Marines and Their Families in 2014. Mike also frequently authors advocacy articles for the grassroots news outlet, CQ Roll Call. His most recent works discuss governmental neglect of Marines and their families on Camp Lejeune. A Trust Betrayed: The Untold Story of Camp Lejeune - https://www.amazon.com/Trust-Betrayed-Poisoning-Generations-Families/dp/0306822571/ref=sr_1_1?crid=EFC4BV0ZHT0R&keywords=Camp+Lejeune+%28A+Trust+Betrayed%29&qid=1666714223&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjk2IiwicXNhIjoiMC4wMCIsInFzcCI6IjAuMDAifQ%3D%3D&s=books&sprefix=camp+lejeune+a+trust+betrayed+%2Cstripbooks%2C73&sr=1-1 Poisoned Legacy: The Human Cost of BP's Rise to Power - https://www.amazon.com/Poisoned-Legacy-Human-Cost-Power/dp/031255494X/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1666982613&sr=1-1 Mike Magner Social Media: Twitter - https://twitter.com/mikejmagner LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-magner-4578b721/ MuckRack - https://muckrack.com/mike-magner CQ Roll Call - https://rollcall.com/author/mike-magner/
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| 05 Jul 2022 | The Livable Law Method | 00:39:42 | |
Dr. Maria-Vittoria “Giugi” Carminati, Esq. sat down with LegalCast’s Elisa D’Amico to discuss her life as a “recovering” lawyer (she’s moved into the business side of the law). Giugi breaks down her book, The Livable Law Method, where she discusses how project management and prioritization of mental health can help reduce and prevent burnout for attorneys - with a focus on solo practitioners or those who work at small and/or plaintiffs’ firms. Giugi discusses her own experience with burnout and how she was able to find success and happiness in the law, and in her life, in part by focusing not only on self-care, but team-care. Currently serving as VP of Business Development at LexShares, Giugi holds years of experience in litigation with licensure in four states and the District of Columbia. Giugi specializes in commercial litigation and constitutional law, and has worked with clients in real estate, pharmaceuticals, oil & gas, and telecommunications. Before joining LexShares, Giugi founded The Woman’s Layer, a family law group specializing in civil litigation, domestic violence cases, and filing protection orders. Giugi is committed to civil rights and social justice, and is able to stay connected to her passions through her work with LexShares. Giugi speaks three languages (French, Italian, and Spanish) and holds a Doctorate and Masters in Space Law, a Juris Doctorate, and Bachelor's degrees in history and political science. In her free time, Giugi enjoys scuba diving and teaching scuba diving. She is also involved with environmental research and is currently working on mapping the humpback whale genome. You can get in touch with Giugi by emailing her at giugi.carminati@lexshares.com or by connecting with her on LinkedIn or Twitter. Her book The Livable Law Method, is on sale at Amazon. Remember to subscribe and follow us on social media… LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mass-tort-news | |||
| 05 Sep 2023 | Roblox Exposing Children to Sexually Explicit Content with Anne Andrews and Rob Siko | 00:39:04 | |
The LegalCast video features Anne Andrews and Rob Siko discussing a class action lawsuit against Roblox, a popular online gaming platform for children. The video highlights concerns regarding the platform's safety features, deceptive representations to parents, and explicit content accessible to young users. Roblox is introduced as a prominent gaming site for children, boasting over a billion users globally. It is designed to create a safe and monitored environment for children to play, learn, and socialize. However, the discussion delves into the platform's failings, particularly in safeguarding children from sexually explicit content, pornography, violence, and potential grooming by predators. The conversation centers on the lawsuit's legal strategy, emphasizing that individual claims against Roblox are limited due to Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which shields platforms from direct liability for user-generated content. However, the lawsuit aims to hold Roblox accountable for its deceptive representations about safety, alleging that the platform has lured parents into spending money under false pretenses. Rob and Anne address the challenges of protecting children online, considering parental involvement, monitoring, and potential misuse of the platform by bad actors. The speakers emphasize the need for accurate representations by platforms catering to young users and discuss the difficulty in balancing children's autonomy with ensuring their online safety. In conclusion, the video highlights the importance of the lawsuit in holding Roblox accountable for its misleading claims and calls attention to the broader issue of child safety in online environments. Parents are encouraged to be vigilant and informed about their children's online activities, while also being aware of the potential risks and shortcomings of platforms like Roblox.
https://andrewsthornton.com/
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| 13 Dec 2022 | Arizona’s Alternative Business Structure, Law Firm Ownership, & Ethics with Lynda Shely | 00:44:31 | |
Lynda Shely serves as the founding partner of the ethics law firm, Shely Law. Lynda consults on legal ethics to firms operating in Arizona and the District of Columbia on topics including advertising, fee agreements, billing, conflicts of interest, and staff training, to name a few. Shely Law also offers specialized risk management assessments and training on how to implement in-firm CLE programs. Before founding Shely Law in 2003, Lynda served as Director of the State Bar of Arizona’s Board of Ethics and held years of experience as an intellectual property associate at Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP. Most recently, she chaired the 2020-2022 ABA Standing Committee on Ethics and Professional Responsibility, and currently serves as an Arizona Delegate in the ABA House of Delegates. Lynda speaks on ethics to law conferences across the country and frequently serves as an expert witness in legal malpractice cases. Lynda has received numerous awards for her work in law ethics, including the 2015 Ruth V. McGregor Award issued by the Arizona Women Lawyers' Association, the 2007 Member of the Year award issued by State Bar of Arizona, and the 2010 Award of Excellence issued by Scottsdale Bar Association. Most recently, the Maricopa County Bar Association honored Lynda with the 2022 Robert R. Mills Member of the Year award.
Lynda Shely Social Media:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynda-shely-74400a11/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/shelyethics Email - lynda@shelylaw.com
Shely Law - https://shelylaw.com/
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| 15 Nov 2022 | Working for Justice for Red Hill families with Kristina Baehr | 00:53:19 | |
Kristina Baehr serves as founding partner of Just Well Law where she “represents sick people against the companies that made them sick,” according to the firm. Kristina holds experience representing both plaintiffs and defendants in class actions and mass torts. She represented big companies in serial patent infringement cases for nearly a decade. Notable cases include the Medical University of South Carolina against AstraZeneca, Trilogy against SAP, and Ericsson against Samsung, to name a few. Baehr also represented Tivo in back-to-back trials against Comcast before the International Trade Commission and won Tivo nine-figures in royalties. Kristina then served as Assistant US Attorney for the Western District of Texas for three years, representing the United States in civil suits of medical malpractice, catastrophic accidents, and general liability. In 2021 Kristina founded Just Well Law after her family personally experienced tragedy from a personal injury case. Just Well Law describes Kristina’s inspiration to “built the personal injury firm she couldn’t find for her own family” because “she has been there too.” She now specializes in representing plaintiffs claims of toxic exposure, medical malpractice, military housing, and other general claims against the United States. Kristina’s firm now represents families affected by contaminated water from military negligence at Red Hill Navy base in Hawaii. Kristina graduated from Princeton University’s Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs and received her J.D. from Yale Law. As a student she served as a White House communications intern and worked under the CDC in Africa as a Princeton Fellow. Outside of the courtroom, Baehr enjoys volunteering as an instructor at the National Institute of Trial Advocacy. Kristina Social Media LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristina-baehr/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/justwelllaw Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/justwelllaw/
Just Well Law Social Media LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/just-well-law-plc/
About Just Well Law - https://www.well.law/about-us
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| 08 Aug 2023 | Major Developments in Talc and Roundup Litigation with Majed Nachawati | 00:50:53 | |
Majed Nachawati provides updates on the Talc litigation (MDL 2738), specifically focusing on the recent dismissal of J&J's second bankruptcy filing by Judge Kaplan. He believes that Johnson & Johnson will likely appeal this decision, but it's uncertain if the U.S. Supreme Court will accept the appeal. Despite his disagreement with the two-step bankruptcy tactic, Nachawati acknowledges that it has tied up litigation for years and influenced their decision to engage in negotiations with Johnson & Johnson for a settlement. He also emphasizes the importance of legislation to prevent solvent companies from using bankruptcy protections inappropriately. Moving on to the Roundup litigation (Bayer Glyphosate (Roundup) MDL 2741), Nachawati explains that there have been multiple trials in state courts, with around 50,000 to 60,000 unresolved claimants. The litigation continues with ongoing negotiations between law firms and Monsanto for a fair resolution. The discussion briefly touches on common benefit fees, where Nachawati expresses concerns about their rising percentages and advocates for more reasonable and fair compensation for law firms involved in mass tort cases.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/majednachawati/
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| 18 Jul 2023 | Boy Scouts & Bankruptcy: Is a Resolution Coming Soon with Eric Goodman | 00:28:04 | |
Join Mark York of LegalCast and Mass Tort News as he engages in a captivating interview with Eric Goodman, a seasoned bankruptcy counsel at Brown Rudnick. Together, they navigate the complex world of mass tort litigation, discussing Eric's involvement in high-profile cases such as the Boy Scouts of America Litigation, Takata Airbags, and the PG&E bankruptcy. Gain valuable insights into the challenges faced, the progress made, and the potential future of mass tort litigation and bankruptcy proceedings. This thought-provoking conversation touches on important topics like victim advocacy, societal changes, international considerations, and more.
In this interview, Eric shares his extensive background and expertise in mass tort cases, highlighting the firm's specialization in plaintiff-side representations in complex bankruptcy cases. Discover the current status of the Boy Scouts litigation and potential outcomes, as well as the impact of recent changes in laws and societal acceptance on mass tort litigation. Gain an understanding of the significance of addressing past wrongs and implementing changes within institutions.
Eric's involvement in cases such as Takata Airbags and the PG&E bankruptcy provides valuable insights into the complexities of global implications and emotional impacts on the victims. Explore the importance of addressing the risk of future fires and the financial implications associated with mass tort cases. The evolving legal landscape and international considerations are also discussed, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities in this field.
Throughout the interview, Eric emphasizes the importance of collaboration and invites legal professionals to connect and share their experiences. Don't miss this captivating interview where Mark York and Eric Goodman offer valuable perspectives on mass tort litigation, bankruptcy proceedings, and the pursuit of justice for victims. Stay informed about the ever-evolving legal landscape in this engaging discussion!
https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-goodman-a460935/
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| 15 Mar 2022 | THE VALUE OF LEGAL TECHNOLOGY with Jason Velez | 00:46:30 | |
Jason Velez is a partner at the Cochran Firm in its Salt Lake City and St. George offices in Utah. He is also the Founder and CEO of 1Law (www.1law.com), a company that leverages artificial intelligence to make lawyers more efficient and lower cost for consumers. By doing so, 1Law helps drive new business to attorneys, which in turn improves the user experience for consumers. 1Law utilizes artificial intelligence to augment, rather than replace lawyers’ ability to provide top-notch legal services to their clients. The 1Law platform allows lawyers and clients to communicate, share information, and access information on a real-time basis, from anywhere. Built on cutting-edge technology, 1Law helps improve access to justice by making quality legal representation available to all through the profitability of personal injury law. Connect with Jason on LinkedIn here. Remember to subscribe and follow us on social media… LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mass-tort-news | |||
| 02 Aug 2022 | The Jayland Walker Akron Police Shooting “What’s the Answer, or is There One?” | 00:43:19 | |
As a partner at DiCello Levitt, Robert “Bobby” DiCello holds decades of experience litigating cases of personal injury, product injury and civil rights abuses. DiCello received national fame for serving as an expert source for ABC News’ coverage of the death of George Floyd, the trial of Derek Chauvin, and the subsequent documentary on both. DiCello has received numerous litigious honors, including annual recognition on the Ohio Super Lawyers list for five years running. Public Justice honored Bobby with the title of Trial Lawyer of the Year for his work in Black v. Hicks in 2021. The National Law Journal has also recognized Bobby as an “agent of change” twice (2017 and 2020), a feat few lawyers achieve once. DiCello currently serves as Editor-in-Chief of The Cleveland State Law Review and has recently begun defending the publicized Jayland Walker, a Akron man killed by police. He holds memberships in National Police Accountability Project, Ohio Association for Justice, and the American Association for Justice. https://dicellolevitt.com/attorney/bobby-dicello/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=08Vj0zlnBPw Robert “Bobby” J. DiCello social media DiCello Levitt Gutzler social media
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| 04 Apr 2023 | Plaintiff-Focused Litigation Support Services for Mass Torts with Mark Eveland | 00:41:30 | |
As co-founder and CEO of Verus, Mark Eveland holds decades of experience building settlement and claim management programs for cases including mass torts, class actions, and insurance runoffs. Before founding Verus in 2003, Mark consulted on large-scale product liability litigation, including asbestos and breast implants, among others. Verus offers clients research, discovery, analytics, and settlement administration support to many of the best litigators in the country.
Mark Eveland Social Media LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-eveland-94976b6/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/mark.eveland.549
Verus LLC Social Media LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verus-claims-services-llc/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/verusllc Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerusLLC Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/verusllc/
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| 30 Apr 2024 | The Suboxone MDL 3092 "What To Know" | 00:27:22 | |
In this LegalCast episode hosted by Mark York, attorneys Sara Papantonio of Levin Papantonio and Davis Cooper of Cooper Law Partners discuss the Suboxone MDL 3092 (Multi-District Litigation). Sara and Davis, both recently appointed to the plaintiff's steering committee, provide insights into the litigation's background, key claims, and notable corporate misconduct. They highlight the significant dental injuries caused by Suboxone film, attributing them to the acidic nature of the drug. The discussion covers various legal aspects, including failure to warn claims, design defects, and antitrust violations by companies like Indivior and Reckitt Benkiser. The attorneys emphasize the importance of filing meritorious cases and the urgency for potential plaintiffs to seek representation due to statute of limitations constraints. They express confidence in the viability of the plaintiff pool and the strength of their case against the defendants. The episode concludes with a call for collaboration and potential co-authoring of articles to raise awareness in mainstream media about the ongoing litigation. | |||
| 31 Jan 2023 | History of the Lejeune Community Assistance Panel with Mike Partain Part 1 | 00:36:44 | |
Mike Partain serves as an advocate for those poisoned from contaminated water on the Camp Lejeune Marine base. Mike received exposure to Lejeune’s contaminated water in-utero and as a baby which resulted in him developing male breast cancer at the age of 39. Since 2007, Mike has served as a community representative for those exposed to chemically contaminated water at Camp Lejeune. Since then, Mike has become recognized as a Camp Lejeune expert and has testified twice for the U.S. Congress. President Obama also invited Mike to the White House for the signing of the 2012 Janey Ensminger Act. Before becoming a Camp Lejeune Advocate, he worked as a history teacher at Bartow High School in Polk County, North Carolina and he now works in the insurance industry
Camp Lejeune Community Assistance Panel and Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease - https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/sites/lejeune/docs/CL_CAP_Charter_2016_508.pdf
Community Assistance Panel (CAP) Meetings Transcripts - https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/sites/lejeune/capmeetings.html
Mike Partain Social Media Twitter - https://twitter.com/PartainMike LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-partain-44759a6a/
The Few, The Proud, The Forgotten - http://tftptf.com/
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| 15 Sep 2023 | $6.1 Billion Global Settlement Value for 3M MDL 2885 with Jennifer Hoekstra | 00:15:58 | |
Mark York engages in a comprehensive discussion with Jennifer Hoekstra, the lead counsel in the 3M earplugs litigation. Together, they break down the momentous $6.01 billion global resolution, shedding light on various aspects of this significant legal milestone. Jennifer Hoekstra begins by highlighting the global resolution's key features. She emphasizes that this resolution encompasses Minnesota filed cases, MDL filed cases, remand wave cases, and even the Bellwether verdicts. Notably, this means that appeals will also be resolved as part of this resolution. Jennifer shares her satisfaction with reaching this resolution only 15 months after the litigation went into bankruptcy, especially considering it's nearly six times what 3M initially set aside for these claims. Mark York and Jennifer address a crucial question: "How much is my case worth?" Jennifer explains that the settlement offers a five-year payout process with two different tracks for claimants to choose from. The registration and election process for these tracks will happen within the next 90 to 120 days, providing clarity on when individuals will be paid and the value of their injury claims. The settlement's flexibility allows claimants to opt for expedited payments or a deferred review process, where experts analyze their cases for potentially higher payouts. Another pivotal aspect of this settlement is the resolution of liens. Jennifer highlights their extensive work on resolving liens since 2019 and reveals that the VA is waiving all liens in the litigation, ensuring a swift and straightforward lien process for most individuals involved. Jennifer also discusses the settlement's administration by Archer and their direct communication with claimants. This process is aimed at providing transparency and clarity for all parties involved. Mark York inquires about attrition, and Jennifer explains that the identification process is carefully managed by Brown Greer to ensure all cases are accounted for. Archer will then handle communication directly with the clients and plaintiffs' counsel, offering a robust and transparent system. Jennifer emphasizes that this settlement is a resounding success, acknowledging the challenges faced during the litigation, including PTSD exacerbation claims and the traumatic nature of the hearing loss suffered by veterans. The settlement ensures certainty for all involved parties, including remand cases. In closing, Jennifer highlights a recent two-and-a-half-hour hearing with Judge Rogers and invites counsel to access the recording on the Northern District of Florida's website for more insights. She encourages anyone with questions to reach out to her office for further information.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-hoekstra-aa77696/
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| 14 Jun 2022 | Building a Legacy Through Leadership | 00:36:18 | |
Diandra “Fu” Debrosse Zimmermann is managing partner of DiCello Levitt’s Birmingham office, co-managing partner of the Washington, D.C. office, and co-chair of the firm’s Mass Tort division. Fu is also a member of the firm’s Public Client, Environmental, Personal Injury, Civil Rights, and Trial practice groups. Widely known for her passionate and relentless client advocacy, she represents individuals and public entities that have been injured by wrongful conduct, whether from defective medical devices or drugs, environmental contamination, corporate misconduct, or civil rights abuse. She is nationally recognized as a powerhouse in mass torts, class actions, products liability, discrimination, and sexual assault claims, and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars in client damages. On May 27, 2022 Fu made history, becoming the first black woman ever appointed plaintiffs’ Co-Lead Counsel in a multidistrict litigation. She was appointed to the role in the massive products liability MDL, In Re: Abbott Laboratories, et al., Preterm Infant Nutrition Products Liability Litigation, against two of the world’s largest manufacturers of infant formula, Abbott Laboratories (NYSE: ABT) and Mead Johnson. Comprised of more than 60 state and federal lawsuits filed across the U.S., the case stems from allegations against the manufacturers of infant formulas Similac (Abbott) and Enfamil (Mead) by parents of premature infants who were fed with that formula and developed the deadly neonatal condition, necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). Fu currently represents individuals exposed to Paraquat, an herbicide thought to cause Parkinson’s disease. She also represents victims of civil rights violations, defective products, and other wrongful conduct. Before joining DiCello Levitt, Fu represented dozens of cities and counties in Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi against opioid manufacturers and distributors. She has also recovered more than $30 million in damages for victims of catastrophic personal injury, product liability, employment discrimination, and civil sexual assault claims. Earlier this year, in February 2022, Fu announced that she along with Ben Crump co-founded Shades of Mass, an organization aimed at combatting the lack of diverse attorney leadership in lawsuits that disproportionately impact communities of color. Through collaboration, shared resources, education and networking opportunities, and pressure on our profession, Shades of Mass aims to rectify this inequity and achieve the diversity missing in mass tort and complex litigation case leadership. Learn more about Shades of Mass, its mission, its board members, and its board members here. The organization will be hosting a conference in October 2023 in Atlanta. Visit the Shades of Mass website to learn more. She is well-known for her relentless and compassionate client advocacy which is only matched by her passion to make this world a better place for the generations to come. Fu has extensive experience handling complex litigation, including pharmaceutical, medical device, environmental contamination, and civil rights matters. And she has earned quite a few accolades for her work, including Top 40 Under 40 attorneys (National Trial Lawyers), Top 10 Under 40 attorney for the State of Alabama (National Academy of Personal Injury Attorneys, Inc.), The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100, one of America’s Top 100 High Stakes Litigators®, and selected as a Top Woman Attorney (B-Metro magazine). Read more about Fu here. Remember to subscribe and follow us on social media… LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mass-tort-news | |||
| 01 Mar 2022 | Artist, Visionary, Trial Lawyer's Friend | 00:43:45 | |
Trevor Goring is a talented visual artist, author, publisher, lecturer, and consultant who has almost 50 years of fine art production experience. For the past few decades, Trevor has worked with the international trial lawyer community, painting portraits of a plethora of legal leaders, including the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Following post graduate studies at Saint Martin's College of Art, London, UK, Trevor began his professional career exhibiting in galleries and museums all while teaching at the Montreal Museum School of Fine Arts. He published French language arts magazines, co-founded a national Canadian arts organization and directed a major public arts center for over a decade. Since that time, Trevor has become a familiar face at many legal conferences – having attended over 500 legal conferences. His works have appeared on magazine covers, widely used legal textbooks, and hundreds of private, public, and corporate collections. In 1991, Trevor founded “Images of Justice,” furthering the connection between arts and social justice and researching the visual history and symbolism of law throughout history. He has worked closely with plaintiff’s lawyers and criminal defense attorneys, producing hundreds of original paintings for them. He is the author of two legal art history books: Women in Law and Judges in Time (both available for purchase on Trevor’s website: https://imagesofjustice.org/collections/books), magazine articles, video productions, and public lectures to audiences from myriad groups within the trial lawyer community, including The American Association for Justice, The National College of Advocacy, American Inns of Court, and The American Board of Trial Advocates. In 2016, Trevor founded the Trial Lawyer National Portrait Gallery (https://www.triallawyerportraits.org/), an online archive of original art documenting and celebrating the trial lawyer community. Through the gallery, Trevor aims to promote an appreciation and understanding of those from our past and present who have made and continue to make important contributions to the criminal and civil justice system in America. Learn more about Trevor at www.trevorgoring.com. Remember to subscribe and follow us on social media… LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mass-tort-news | |||
| 03 Oct 2023 | Milestone's Interactive Payment Portal with Amy Fogle | 00:16:53 | |
Welcome to LegalCast by MassTort News! In this episode, our host Mark York sits down with Amy Fogle from Milestone, a pioneering company in post-settlement solutions. Amy shares insights into Milestone's innovative approach to complex litigation, mass torts, MDLs, and more. In a rapidly evolving legal landscape, Milestone is transforming the way settlements are handled by integrating cutting-edge technology to streamline processes, reduce costs, and enhance the overall client experience. Learn how their digital pathway, known as "Pathway," is making mass tort distribution more efficient and user-friendly for law firms, attorneys, and their clients. Amy also discusses the importance of customization in post-settlement solutions, highlighting the unique needs of different litigation cases. Whether it's optimizing settlement planning for college-bound individuals or tailoring solutions to specific client populations, Milestone is at the forefront of delivering efficient and client-centric services. Mark and Amy delve into the broader implications of technology in the legal industry, from lowering costs and time efficiency to providing transparency and real-time data access. Discover how Milestone's Pathway technology is revolutionizing the way law firms and accounting departments manage settlements. Amy also touches on the role of technology in court proceedings and the potential for wider acceptance of tech-driven solutions among judges and legal professionals. As the legal industry continues to evolve, Milestone is dedicated to fostering partnerships and collaborating with law firms to drive innovation. Don't miss out on this engaging conversation about the future of technology in law, the benefits of digitization, and Milestone's vision for expanding its impact on various types of litigation, including mass torts, multi-party cases, and state court resolutions. If you're interested in exploring how technology can revolutionize your legal settlement processes, be sure to connect with Amy Fogle and the Milestone team at MTMP, where they will be receiving the Innovation Award for their groundbreaking Pathway technology. For more information or to schedule a consultation, reach out to Amy Fogle or Sam Dolce on the Milestone team. Stay tuned for more LegalCast episodes that keep you informed about the latest trends and innovations in the legal industry. Subscribe, like, and share to stay connected with MassTort News and our informative LegalCast series.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-fogle/
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| 27 Sep 2022 | From Academia to Private Practice and MDL Leadership with Patrick Luff | 00:37:58 | |
As a founding partner of Luff Law, Patrick Luff maintains national recognition for his instrumental role in winning multi-million dollar victories for plaintiffs. Luff famously won a $15.4 million wrongful death judgment and a precedent-setting federal appeal, while also leading the charge in Paraquat Products Liability MDL consolidated. Patrick served as Co-Lead Counsel in the Texas MDL No. 2021-41903 (Winter Storm Uri Litigation) and on the Plaintiffs’ Steering Committee in MDL No. 2974 (Paragard IUD Products Liability Litigation). Patrick remains active in the Mass Tort community through litigation and speaking at conferences. Before founding his private practice, Patrick taught legislation and statutory interpretation, civil procedure, and administrative law at University of Oklahoma, Arizona State University, and Washington and Lee University. In 2013 Luff served as a visiting scholar at Max Planck Institute in Heidelberg, Germany and later earned a Ph.D. (A.B.D) in law at the University of Oxford. Luff Law Social Media Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lufflaw LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/luff-law-firm-pllc/ Patrick Luff Social Media LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickluff/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/patrick.luff.315
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| 01 Aug 2023 | The Journey of Your Southside Lawyer with James Flynn Jr. | 00:32:58 | |
James E. Flynn Jr. and Elisa D’Amico have a candid and engaging conversation about how he and Riah Greathouse formed a successful partnership in their law practice. James and Raya, who are referred to as the "dream team," share their journey of how they met and bonded over their similar legal paths. They discuss their common experiences and personal ambitions, highlighting the growth mindset that drives them to achieve more together. James shares a story about his encounter with a successful lawyer, Larry Belz, who became his mentor and helped him venture into mass torts. With the guidance of Belz, James expanded his practice to represent minorities in cases involving baby formula and motor vehicle accidents. The discussion delves into the importance of branding and marketing in the legal industry, with James sharing how he manifested his brand, "Your Southside Lawyer." He emphasizes the significance of having a strong brand that resonates with clients and creates a meaningful connection. The video also touches on the representation of minorities in the legal field and the need for diversity and inclusion. James and Riah partnership demonstrates the power of collaboration and the benefits of bringing together diverse perspectives and experiences to build a successful law firm. Overall, the video sheds light on the journey of two successful lawyers, their commitment to excellence, and their dedication to serving their clients' needs. It also highlights the significance of diversity and inclusivity in the legal profession.
https://www.flynnlawoffices.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-e-flynn-jr-59a43716/
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| 18 Oct 2023 | Jose Rojas NEC MDL 3026 Innovator | 00:51:19 | |
Ready to be at the forefront of legal news that could impact your life and future? Join our Mass Tort News Newsletter today, and become part of a community dedicated to justice, accountability, and awareness. https://masstortnews.org/ Mark York engages in a detailed discussion of the NEC necrotizing case with his guest, Jose Rojas. Together, they thoroughly examine the critical nature of this case, shedding light on the issues related to the lack of effective monitoring within the commerce stream in the United States. The case primarily centers around formula feeding in neonatal care units and its potential link to necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in prematurely born infants. They extensively explore the legal journey, the challenges they encountered, and the broader implications for infant healthcare. Jose Rojas provides insights into how he became involved in the mass tort space, the initial case at Yale Hospital concerning formula-fed infants, and the subsequent medical malpractice and product liability cases filed against Abbott and Mead Johnson. This case marked the first instance in which formula was alleged to cause NEC in prematurely born infants, leading to a nationwide legal battle. Mark York and Jose Rojas explore the intricacies of overseeing an MDL (Multi-District Litigation) and highlight the distinctions from managing individual cases. They emphasize the crucial role of collaborative leadership and their strong commitment to increasing awareness of the matter while advocating for changes in hospital practices concerning formula feeding in NICUs. Additionally, they shed light on the questionable tactics employed by formula companies and underscore the persistent call for justice on behalf of affected families. Throughout the episode, the discussion highlights the corporate greed of pharmaceutical companies and their prioritization of profits over safety. They emphasize the role of lawyers in exposing such misconduct and advocating for the rights of the most vulnerable individuals. Jose emphasizes the justness of their cause, the supporting evidence, and the severe harm inflicted on infants. While recognizing the challenges ahead, they remain committed to sitting at the negotiation table when the time is right. Jose also notes a shift in focus away from justifying the use of formula, particularly towards defending the use of fortified products. They discuss the uncertainties surrounding the opposition's motivations, acknowledging the need to keep pressing forward and striving for victory. Switching gears, the conversation shifts to Jose's involvement in the Bard Port MDL, the newest MDL in the country. Jose commends the group's leadership, highlighting the blend of single-event trial lawyers and experienced MDL practitioners. He shares the importance of having a diverse range of legal backgrounds in such leadership roles and the merits of seeing a case through from inception to conclusion. The Bard Port MDL involves implants made of inferior materials and the serious health risks associated with them. Bard's corporate practices, driven by profit motives, are brought to light. The conversation touches on the significance of holding companies accountable for prioritizing profits over safety. Mark and Jose also discuss Shades of Mass, a group focusing on diversity and inclusion in mass tort leadership. Jose highlights the resistance faced by newcomers in the legal space, emphasizing the need to break through the existing control structures and showcase the value of diversity, not only in terms of race and ethnicity but also in fresh perspectives and ideas that can enhance the pursuit of justice. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on legal matters, corporate responsibility, and the importance of diverse representation in mass tort leadership. Don't miss this enlightening LegalCast episode. Listeners are encouraged to contact Jose Rojas via email at jose@lrcr.law for questions or information related to NEC cases.
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| 05 Mar 2024 | Mass Tort Minute with Joseph Fantini | 00:22:12 | |
In this episode of LegalCast on Mass Tort News, host Mark York welcomes Joseph Fantini from Philadelphia's Rosen Injury Law to discuss the latest updates in mass tort litigation. Fantini highlights Roundup as the hottest ongoing tort, with multiple trials underway and Bayer facing significant verdicts against them. He predicts potential inventory settlements due to the large number of filed cases. The discussion expands to include hernia mesh litigation, particularly focusing on Bard and Covidian cases, with expectations of a global settlement for Bard by the second half of the year. The conversation also touches on emerging torts like Ozempic and baby food-related lead exposure cases. Fantini emphasizes the importance of state court proceedings, especially in Philadelphia and California, for their potential advantages in terms of expert standards and timing. The discussion concludes with insights into ongoing cases like Tylenol and talc litigation, as well as legislative changes in Michigan regarding pharmaceutical liability statutes and the emergence of juvenile institutional sex abuse cases. Fantini offers his expertise and invites further inquiries from viewers.
https://roseninjurylawyers.com/
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| 09 Mar 2022 | Ambassador of First Impressions™ with Harlan Schillinger | 00:39:12 | |
With four decades of experience in legal advertising with a passion for legal marketing, intake, and conversion, Harlan Schillinger has more than earned his title as the Grandfather of Legal Advertising. Harlan was the first in the industry to produce and market TV advertising for the legal community. In 1975, along with his partners, Harlan founded the first syndication TV production firm for high-end retailers and Lawyers, creating television commercials that aired throughout North America. Since the late 1970s, Harlan has worked aggressively, productively, and professionally within the legal advertising space. He has said that: “Creating opportunities and increasing market share for advertising law firms is [his] #1 priority. The value of the case is everything in such a crowded market.” Harlan privately consults with lawyers who not only share his values, but who also share his vision of increasing business, being accountable, and obtaining high-value cases. His approach to intake and conversion rests on complete accountability within that area and he is known to practice what he preaches. Harlan has trademarked within the legal advertising world the two phrases that have become his backbone of philosophy: What You Don't Know, You Don't Know®, and Ambassador of First Impressions™. Since that time, Harlan has worked with more than 130 law firms in almost 100 markets throughout North America. Before joining Network Affiliates in 1985, Harlan was a founding partner and VP of Madison, Muyskens & Jones, a Connecticut-based advertising agency. In April 2016 Harlan retired from Colorado-based Network Affiliates, the nation's first and largest full-service legal advertising agency, where he was the leader of their attorney marketing efforts for over 34 years. A few years ago, Harlan and two of his partners – Dino Colombo Esq. and Eric Coffman – developed Lead Docket, software for intake and conversion within law firms. Harlan says that Lead Docket helps law firms increase control and management of intake and conversion, allowing the firms to thrive. Harlan is involved with a number of professional organizations, being a member of the National Trial Lawyers Executive Summit Committee as well as a Senior Editor and Writer for the National Trial Lawyers Magazine. He also has a passion for riding and building custom motorcycles, and is a proud member of the most prestigious motorcycle group in the world: Hamsters USA ® Motorcycle Group. Learn more about Harlan at www.harlanschillinger.com. Remember to subscribe and follow us on social media… LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mass-tort-news | |||
| 25 Apr 2023 | One of Puerto Rico’s First Mass Tort Lawyers | 00:14:44 | |
Ari Kresch, a Puerto Rico resident and attorney currently in Michigan. Kresch talks about how he fell in love with Puerto Rico and was one of the initial people practicing law and residing there before most others. He and his colleagues have inspired hundreds of lawyers to move to Puerto Rico, and they have formed a healthy trial lawyers of Puerto Rico organization that interacts with all law schools. Kresch also talks about their upcoming event, Mass Tort Puerto Rico, and how they are looking to improve it from last year. He mentions the keynote speaker, Mark Lanier, and other speakers they have lined up. Kresch also talks about his work in Puerto Rico and how he is trying to duplicate some of the work that trial lawyers do in the United States on behalf of unrepresented people, like class action lawsuits. Kresch shares some examples of the cases he has taken on, including one where a famous pizzeria was paying its delivery employees $1 per delivery instead of a fair mileage charge, and another where five Puerto Rico automobile insurance carriers were denying claims.
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| 08 Feb 2022 | Ethicon Faces A Legacy Transvaginal Mesh Trial in Federal Court Facing Off Against Mike Stag | 00:31:43 | |
Today we are joined by Mike Stagg of Stag Liuzza in New Orleans. Mike is in the middle of trial preparation for what would be considered a long hard road by any stretch of the litigation imagination of a single case that took 10 years to get to trial. Mike begins a transvaginal mesh trial in Huntington WV federal court in mid-February 2022 that he has been working on for 10 years. The defendant is the Ethicon division of Johnson & Johnson and is a legacy trial of the previously settled multidistrict litigation against various TVM manufacturers. Those dockets settled for billions of dollars several years ago and kudos to Mike and his firm for maintaining such high standards in representing their client and ensuring she has a day in court. We will also touch on the AFFF firefighter foam multidistrict litigation where Mike is a member of the plaintiff steering committee and his additional work in environmental contamination and related litigation across the country. Remember to subscribe and follow us on social media… LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mass-tort-news | |||
| 10 Jan 2023 | QSF and Technology | Fast Track to Client Funding with Amy Fogle | 00:19:55 | |
Amy Fogle serves as CEO of Milestone, a nationwide financial settlement service for plaintiffs and trial lawyers. Milestone specifically focuses on serving in mass tort QSF administration, attorney fee deferral, and plaintiff settlement planning. Amy holds nearly 15 years of experience in wealth management, bringing expertise from previous companies including Nottingham Advisors, Citi, and JP Morgan. Amy remains responsible for Milestone’s strategic vision and goals for specific clients, including a qualified settlement fund administration firm, SEC-registered investment advisory firm, and pre-settlement funding 501(c)(3) nonprofit. She also oversees leadership growth overall and the branding and development of Milestone.
Amy Fogle Social Media LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-fogle/
Milestone Social Media LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/milestoneandco/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/milestoneandcompany Twitter - https://twitter.com/milestoneandco
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| 07 Jun 2022 | Calling Out Boardroom Misconduct in the Courts and Court of Public Opinion | 00:22:25 | |
John Uustal and the Kelly Uustal Law Firm are a complex personal injury firm based in Fort Lauderdale FL, who are actively involved in traumatic and catastrophic injury litigation and Mass Torts as local trial counsel for certain MDL leadership firms. Also, KU is one of the premier tobacco litigation firms in the country, securing hundreds of millions of dollars in verdicts against Big Tobacco. Never afraid to face corporate bad conduct, John Uustal and the Kelly Uustal firm will take the fight directly to the corporate boardrooms. Check out John Uustal's blog to stay up-to-date on corporate treachery: https://www.johnuustal.com/ 888.522.6601
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| 12 Apr 2022 | Mass Tort Tragedy: the FIU Bridge Collapse with Christos Lagos | 00:55:42 | |
Christos Lagos has been the co-managing partner of Lagos & Priovolos PLLC since 2014 when he and John Priovolos formed the firm. Christos, who has over 23 years of legal experience, heads the firm's civil litigation division. His primary focus is on claims that involve substantial losses arising out of construction negligence, unsafe premises, automobile and trucking accidents, medical malpractice, wrongful death, negligence, defective products, insurance claims, and other civil disputes. Christos is a seasoned and accomplished trial lawyer with an exceptional track record of success handling high-profile litigation. His experience as lead counsel in numerous jury trials has proven invaluable in the guidance and expertise he offers his clients. He has obtained several multi-million dollar settlements, judgments, and jury verdicts and is a standing member of both the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum. In total, Christos has helped recover over $150 Million for those whose lives have been harmed by the wrongdoing of others. Over the last 20 years, Christos has successfully litigated against insurance companies, construction and engineering firms, major consumer product and automobile manufacturers, property owners, health care providers, trucking and transportation companies, and other entities and corporations. Christos holds a Certificate in Mass-Tort Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) from the Bolch Judicial Institute at Duke Law School. Throughout his career, Christos has handled several notable landmark cases. Notably, Christos filed the first wrongful death lawsuit for the tragic bridge collapse that occurred at Florida International University. Twenty personal injury and wrongful death cases were consolidated against twenty-eight defendants involving over 100 lawyers. Christos served as Liaison Counsel and was a lead attorney in this consolidated action. On behalf of all plaintiffs' counsel, Christos conducted numerous presentations and led global settlement negotiations resulting in the creation of a trust for the benefit of the bridge collapse victims in the amount of $102.75 Million from twenty-five defendants. Judge Jennifer D. Bailey, Administrative Judge of the Eleventh Judicial Circuit in Miami-Dade County, who presided over the FIU bridge collapse litigation, had this to say about him: "Everyone should be extraordinarily grateful for Mr. Lagos's service as the lead court liaison. A significant portion of why this case has moved as efficiently as it has is because he stepped up to do this." To view news clips and statements from Judge Bailey and other counsel involved in the FIU bridge collapse litigation, click here. Read more about Christos here. And connect with him on LinkedIn here. Remember to subscribe and follow us on social media… LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mass-tort-news | |||
| 06 Sep 2022 | Camp Lejeune 101 with Sara Papantonio | 00:27:03 | |
Sara Papantonio serves as an Associate attorney at Levin Papantonio Rafferty specializing in Mass Tort litigation, specifically relating to Camp Lejeune water contamination. Sara graduated from Stetson University College of Law in 2020 and served as a member of the Stetson Trial team, ranked #1 nationally. Sara earned the title of Regional Champion and National Finalist at the 2020 National Trial Competition. Sara also acted as Senior Associate for Stenson’s Law Review. Upon her graduation, Sara received a faculty nomination for induction to the Order of Barristers, a national organization which recognizes individuals who have excelled in advocacy and service at their law schools. Papantonio also received Stetson’s Richard Harris Ferrell Competition award for “the student advocate who has best demonstrated excellence through his or her performance in intercollegiate competitions.” Sara remains active within the law community as a lecturer and panelist on the Camp Lejeune water contamination litigation. Most recently Sara participated as a faculty voice at the American Association for Justice’s Camp Lejeune Water Litigation Virtual Seminar and the HarrisMartin webinar series. Sara Papantonio social LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-papantonio-57245a9b/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sara.papantonio
Levin Papantonio Rafferty Law Firm LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/levin-papantonio-thomas-mitchell-rafferty-&-proctor-p-a-/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/levinpapantonioraffertylaw/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/LevinPapantonio Twitter - https://twitter.com/LevinPapantonio/
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| 12 Dec 2023 | Hair Relaxer: the Culture, the Legal Process, and the Scope of Harm with Danielle Ward Mason | 00:43:01 | |
In this LegalCast Elisa D'Amico interviews Danielle Ward Mason about her journey to founding a new law firm and her focus on hair relaxer litigation. Danielle discusses the challenges and motivations behind launching the firm with Tina Bullock, highlighting their alignment in values and the desire to create a better work environment. They discuss the challenges of funding a startup firm, touching on the complexities of financing, self-funding goals, and the importance of principled decisions in the face of offers that may not align with their vision. Danielle's passion for representing people against establishments drives her work, stemming from her experience as a federal defender and later representing individuals against big corporations. She shares her transition into litigating hair relaxer cases, rooted in personal experiences and a commitment to uncovering the health impacts of these products. The conversation goes into the cultural significance of hair relaxers in the Black community, highlighting the social and personal pressures that influence their usage. Danielle candidly discusses the societal beauty standards and the emotional impact of hair relaxers on self-esteem, shedding light on the lifelong implications and the imperative need for increased awareness and regulation within the cosmetic industry. Through this dialogue, Danielle illuminates the multifaceted layers of her legal work and the profound implications of hair relaxer use, advocating for greater awareness, discussion, and accountability within this important area of consumer safety. https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-ward-mason-jd-mba-07bb0636/ Remember to subscribe and follow us on social media… LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mass-tort-news Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/masstortnewsorg Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/masstortnews.org
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| 21 Nov 2023 | PFAS in America – Fixing Forever Chemical Risks with Mike Stag | 00:29:43 | |
Mike Stag and Mark York, unpack the impact of PFAS chemicals in firefighting foam. This case is the linchpin for settling PFAS-related issues nationwide, highlighting the widespread contamination these 'forever chemicals' cause. The discussion spans the alarming effects of PFAS, its non-biodegradable nature, and its role in contaminating water supplies across various industries—military, refineries, and municipal fire departments. Discover how these chemicals, known for their carcinogenic properties and immune system impact, have spurred a $10-12 billion settlement involving major players like 3M, DuPont, and Chemours. Discover key insights into the ongoing legal complexities, including registration processes, timelines for filing claims, and distinctions between phase one and phase two claimants. The LegalCast explores the wide-reaching impact of PFAS, touching on military and firefighter injury claims, emerging issues related to clothing exposure, and the EPA's stringent standards for PFAS contamination in drinking water. With the impending EPA standards for PFAS contamination lowering to four parts per trillion, the LegalCast examines the ramifications for public water systems and the necessity for compliance to meet these stringent standards. Tune in to gain a comprehensive understanding of this groundbreaking legal case and its far-reaching implications. Don't miss this insightful discussion on one of the most significant environmental cases, paving the way for a national resolution of PFAS-related concerns. Stag Liuzza Office: 504-593-9600 https://www.cleangroundwater.com/ https://stagliuzza.com/who-we-are/michael-stag/ #LegalInsights #EnvironmentalLaw #PFASContamination #LegalPodcast #LawyersTalk #LegalExperts #LegalCommunity #LegalMinds #EnvironmentalIssues #LawAndEnvironment #LegalKnowledge #LawFirmInsights #LitigationInsights #LegalCast #LegalUpdates #podcast #Litigation #PFAS #AFFF #cleanwater #drinkingwater #Podcast #shorts #3M #DuPont #Chemours
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| 14 Nov 2023 | The Power of Trust: Insights from a Board Certified Trial Lawyer with Miriam Fresco Agrait | 00:36:11 | |
Miriam Fresco Agrait shares her experiences, journey, and the driving force behind her legal career, emphasizing the profound impact of being people-facing. From her time as a prosecutor, where she represented the state of Florida and the crime victims, to her role in mass torts, Miriam has always felt a deep sense of purpose in helping those who need it most. Miriam's path to becoming a board-certified trial lawyer, sheds light on the challenges and determination required to reach such a prestigious milestone, especially as a Latina woman with a family. Miriam's story is an inspiring testament to her dedication and passion for her clients. The conversation further explores the importance of maintaining personal connections with clients, especially in the mass tort space. Miriam emphasizes the need for attorneys to connect with their clients on a personal level, understand their experiences, and offer the guidance and support they require. The discussion highlights the human element in legal representation, especially in mass tort cases where clients often face life-altering challenges. Miriam and Elisa explore the importance of effective team management and communication in providing clients with a seamless and trustworthy legal experience. They stress the value of accountability and how running a successful law firm involves practicing law and mastering the art of managing a team and a business. Miriam also touches on the marketing strategies at Rubenstein Law, highlighting the significance of authentic messaging and the power of trust in the legal field. In an industry where trust and loyalty are paramount, Miriam and Elisa emphasize the unique nature of legal relationships and the significance of being a dependable, authentic, and client-centered attorney. Join us for this informative LegalCast episode and gain valuable insights into the legal profession's inner workings and the importance of fostering connections and trust in the pursuit of justice. 1-800-Rubenstein Law https://www.rubensteinlaw.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/miriam-fresco-agrait-83930293/
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| 22 Dec 2023 | Exploring the Legal Challenges in Social Media and Gaming Addiction Cases with Patrick Luff | 00:37:18 | |
The conversation between Elisa D'Amico and Patrick Luff discusses the complex world of social media and gaming litigation, the legal intricacies, and the evolving landscape of accountability for online platforms. They explore the impact of Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which shields platforms from liability for third-party content, and its relevance in the current digital era. Elisa and Patrick highlight the challenges in defining platforms' roles as content publishers versus providers, emphasizing how rapidly evolving technology often outpaces existing laws. They touch upon arguments attempting to navigate around Section 230 by framing issues as product liability concerns and discussing safety features as analogies to tangible product elements. The conversation also probes into the ethical dimensions of platform design, where intentional algorithms can influence behaviors and shape users' experiences, particularly affecting children. They reflect on the struggle of parents in safeguarding their children amidst purposefully designed addictive elements within platforms. Moreover, they discuss the shifting landscape in legislation, noting a growing understanding among lawmakers, especially those with children entering the digital world, leading to increased legislative action and possible involvement of state attorneys general in litigations. Overall, the conversation provides a comprehensive view of the legal, ethical, and societal implications of social media and gaming platforms, indicating a growing awareness among lawmakers and legal experts about the need for regulatory changes to address emerging challenges in the digital sphere. Remember to subscribe and follow us on social media… LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mass-tort-news Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/masstortnewsorg
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| 16 Jul 2024 | Legal Intelligence.ai "A Best Use of Technology" | 00:31:20 | |
Join us for an exciting episode of LegalCast as we welcome David | |||
| 07 Feb 2023 | Common Benefit Funds: What should you know with Amy Collins | 00:25:25 | |
Amy Collins serves as a consultant on MDL common benefit fees and auditing. Before hanging her shingle in 2013, Amy served as an associate attorney at Clark, Love & Hutson (Houston, TX), then Partner at Burnett Law Firm (Houston, TX). Amy holds over a decade of experience consulting and auditing for big-name MDLs. After only six years of practicing, Amy received mention in The National Trial Lawyers’ 2016 Top 40 Under 40 list. Amy currently serves as the National Distributors & Janssen Settlement Fee Panel Assistant, Expense Fund Administrator Assistant, and the Common Benefit Time and Expense Billing Manager and Auditor in MDL 2804, In Re: National Prescription Opiate Litigation, United States District Court for the Northern District of Ohio. Amy has also served as the Common Benefit Time and Expenses Billing Manager and Auditor for MDL 2975, In Re: Paragard IUD Products Liability Litigation, the Common Benefit Advisor & Auditor in MDL 2942, In Re: Zantac (Ranitidine) Products Liability Litigation, and Common Benefit Fee & Cost Committee Advisor for MDL 2641, In Re: Bard IVC Filter Products Liability Litigation, United States District Court for the District of Arizona. Amy Collins Social LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-collins-a927621ba/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amy.collins.169405 Website: https://www.amylcollinspc.com/?fbclid=IwAR1Vr2R1DDLS4yL7Ak60keM0KGHubamcgE073sW_dmiYmk7DeW7O1bc5BkU
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| 11 Aug 2022 | Gardasil Vaccine MDL 3036 with Bijan Esfandiari, a Post-JPML Hearing Update | 00:34:36 | |
Bijan Esfandiari serves as Senior shareholder at Baum Hedlund Aristei & Goldman, litigating cases of pharmaceutical product liability. Bijan discusses his current MDL (No. 3036) against pharmaceutical company Merck for the production and distribution of Gardasil, an HPV vaccine believed to cause POTS. Esfandiari explains how the defense shames victims of the toxic vaccine into silence by labeling them “anti-vaxers.” Esfandiari also actively worked on the 2010 GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) litigation, which resulted in $750 million settlement in civil and criminal claims over the company’s manufacturing of contaminated medication. Esfandiari received a unanimous agreement from a three-judge panel for his arguments in both the McCormick v. Medtronic, Inc. and Mason v. SmithKline Beecham Corp. With over 20 years of experience in law, Esfandiari holds great passion for helping others, specifically those harmed by large corporations. Bijan’s most recent honors include being named to the 2022 of Best Lawyers in America®, Lawdragon’s 2022 list of Leading Plaintiff Consumer Lawyers, and Law360’s 2021 series of Regional Powerhouses in California. Bijan also received recognition on the Southern California Super Lawyers® list of Rising Stars annually since 2009. Esfandiari remains active in the law community outside of the courtroom by speaking at national law conferences. Bijan maintains membership in the American Association for Justice’s Leader’s Forum, the Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles, and UCLA Journal of International Law & Foreign Affairs. Bijan speaks fluent Farsi and conversational German. Remember to subscribe and follow us on social media… LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mass-tort-news | |||
| 25 Jan 2022 | Tip of the Spear with Billy Walters | 00:30:48 | |
“Tip of the Spear” with Billy Walters As a mass tort lawyer who spent 10+ years in the online advertising and digital marketing industry, joining Legal Conversion Center (LCC) as General Counsel was a natural fit. LCC, a Texas-based call center, works with many of the top law firms in the US. Their focus on conversion rates and client service makes them a leader in their field. Billy talks with Mass Tort News about how his background, LCC’s focus on training and ability to scale, LCC’s sponsorship of Mass Torts Puerto Rico in May 2022, and how LCC call center specialists are the first individuals victims connect with as part of the mass torts process – thus, the call center plays a critical role as the “tip of the spear.” Remember to subscribe and follow us on social media… LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mass-tort-news | |||
| 18 Jan 2022 | Hell on Heels with Carrie Goldberg | 00:39:51 | |
Carrie Goldberg is a pioneer in the field of sexual privacy and a Brooklyn-based victims’ rights attorney who is best known for her work fighting revenge porn and representing victims of sexual abuse and related online harassment. In fact Carrie began her career to become the lawyer she needed after she found herself the victim of a calculated scheme of harassment and threats to release intimate photos and was unable to find an attorney who knew how to help. Since then, Carrie has appeared in documentary films and news programs, been featured in numerous articles, including for The New Yorker and Elle. She has testified before Congress, sat at the table to discuss how to fight cyber exploitation with now Vice President Kamala Harris and other leaders in big tech. She has authored a book, Nobody’s Victim: Fighting Psychos, Stalkers, Pervs, and Trolls. And she has been engaged by “celebrity” clients, including Lucia Evans and Paz de la Huerta – victims of film producer Harvey Weinstein – and politicians, including former Congresswoman Katie Hill. Carrie’s work includes fighting against big tech companies to take responsibility for online harms. She has sued several social media platforms, including Snapchat in A.M. v. Omegle and Grindr in Herrick v. Grindr, where she sought to hold the gay dating app Grindr responsible under a product liability theory. In addition to running her own law firm and her efforts toward legislative change both at the state and federal levels, Carrie currently serves on the Advisory Committee for the Cyber Civil Rights Initiative, a national nonprofit that serves thousands of victims around the world and advocates for technological, social, and legal innovation to fight online abuse. Get your copy of Nobody’s Victim here: https://www.amazon.com/Nobodys-Victim-Fighting-Psychos-Stalkers/dp/052553377X Remember to subscribe and follow us on social media… LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mass-tort-news | |||
| 22 Aug 2023 | PFAS in America Explained with Andrew Croner | 00:25:23 | |
Mark York interviews Andrew Croner from Napoli Shkolnik, a law firm actively involved in the PFOS, PFOA, and AFFF (aqueous film-forming foam) settlement in the MDL (multidistrict litigation) and the Flint, Michigan water crisis. Andrew Croner, the head of the environmental department at Napoli Shkolnik, discusses the complex issues surrounding PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances) contamination, the health risks associated with these "forever chemicals," and the legal actions being taken to hold manufacturers accountable for the harm caused by their products.
The conversation covers topics such as the history of PFAS, the various health conditions linked to exposure, the challenges of studying these chemicals' effects, the role of the Department of Defense (DOD), residential claims, ongoing litigation efforts, and recent settlements. The interview emphasizes the importance of compensating affected communities and water suppliers and highlights the significant impact of the settlements achieved so far. The discussion also touches on the expanding scope of PFAS-related lawsuits, the challenges of pursuing legal action in this complex area, and the ongoing efforts to ensure that responsible parties bear the financial burden of addressing PFAS contamination.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-croner-04070054/
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| 07 Nov 2023 | Looking Closer at Maryland’s Youth Sex Abuse Claims with Todd Mathews | 00:35:21 | |
Mark York from MassTort News sits down with Todd Mathews from the Bailey Glasser Firm to discuss critical legal topics, including the Maryland sex abuse cases and other significant issues. Todd Mathews, a partner at the Bailey Glasser firm, starts by providing some background about his firm's involvement in various cases, such as sex abuse and asbestos, as well as their pivotal role in the J&J and 3M bankruptcy proceedings. He commends the successful outcomes in those cases, highlighting how corporate America can't use bankruptcy to evade responsibility. The focus of this conversation centers around the widespread issue of child abuse and the recent measures taken by states to address it, allowing survivors to seek justice and closure. They discuss the situation in Maryland, which is seen as a positive example of how states are handling such cases. Maryland has eliminated the statute of limitations for child abuse cases and has applied this change retroactively, allowing survivors to come forward and file their claims. Todd underscores the significance of these changes in supporting those who have suffered abuse during their childhood, emphasizing the need for justice and accountability. The discussion also touches on other states' approaches to addressing child abuse cases, with some implementing limited windows of opportunity for survivors to file claims. Todd points out the challenges of addressing these cases, especially the need for a sensitive and compassionate approach, avoiding the re-traumatization of survivors. Switching gears, the conversation touches on recent developments in the legal field, particularly in relation to Johnson & Johnson (J&J) and their potential third bankruptcy filing. Todd expresses his concern and disapproval of such actions, which he views as an abuse of the bankruptcy process to delay compensating victims further. He also addresses the viability of the Camp Lejeune docket, highlighting how recent issues with case attrition and unethical practices in the legal field can impact its resolution. In summary, this LegalCast provides valuable insights into the legal landscape, focusing on child abuse cases, bankruptcy proceedings, and the challenges and responsibilities faced by lawyers in these sensitive matters. https://www.baileyglasser.com/
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| 21 Jun 2022 | Leading the 3M Earplugs Bellwether Trial Victory Parade! | 00:39:25 | |
Jennifer Hoekstra and the AWKO trial team led the charge on the 16th 3M multidistrict litigation bellwether trial in May. 3M Leadership brought more multidistrict litigation. Bellwether trials to verdict in the last 18 months than any prior multidistrict Bellwether trial track in history. Jennifer has been involved in direct outcomes of Bellwether trials and settlements in excess of 11 billion dollars in multidistrict. These dockets include trial and leadership roles in the following MDLs: Actos, DePuy Pinnacle Hip Implant, Genetically Modified Rice, 3M Earplugs, and Proton Pump Inhibitors. She has been active in complex litigation since 2007 and shows no sign of slowing down in 2022. We look forward to watching Jennifer maintain her leadership role in the 3M Earplug mediation and settlement negations. | |||
| 30 Jan 2024 | Testimony on Proposed FRCP 16.1 with Jose Rojas | 00:25:41 | |
In this LegalCast episode, Elisa D'Amico engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Jose Rojas from Levin, Rojas, Camassar & Reck LLC. The discussion begins with an exploration of Jose's recent testimony before the rules committee on Rule 16.1, a federal rule integral to the MDL structure. This crucial testimony sets the stage for a multifaceted dialogue on the evolving landscape of MDL leadership and the importance of diversity in shaping legal committees. Elisa and Jose explore the collaborative process of the rules committee and touch on crucial issues, including privilege logs and the defense bar's push for early information disclosure. The discussion reveals the complexities of the evolving federal rule. Jose emphasizes the need to move beyond an exclusive focus on prior MDL experience in leadership appointments. He advocates for a holistic approach, considering expertise, case development roles, and representative diversity. The discussion challenges the common exclusion of lawyers initiating litigations from leadership roles. A passionate call for diverse leadership sees Jose highlighting the advantage of lawyers involved from the case's inception. He stresses the natural evolution toward less homogeneous and more diverse leadership, emphasizing the importance of expertise, role, and diversity in crafting effective legal teams.
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| 20 Dec 2022 | Survivor Stories | Fighting the Talc War vs. Johnson & Johnson with Leigh O’Dell | 00:47:08 | |
Leigh O’Dell serves as Co-Lead Plaintiff Counsel in MDL 2738 against Johnson & Johnson. The litigation centers on J&J’s marketing and distributing talcum powder and the powder’s link to the development of ovarian cancer in users. According to Beasley Allen, nearly 35,000 plaintiffs remain pending in the MDL and five plaintiff settlements totalling in $2.9 billion. Leigh also represents plaintiffs of litigations including transvaginal mesh, Gardasil, and Vioxx. Leigh works closely with the Emory University School of Law’s Institute for Complex Litigation, by co-chairing the Institute’s Bridge to Practice and Next Generation Programs, which help attorneys new to complex litigation better understand the principles and strategies of the practice. She also leads in a number of non-profit organizations, sitting on the Board of Directors for Children’s Hope Ministry, Telling the Truth Ministries, Joni and Friends, and the Jimmy Hitchcock Award. Outside of the courtroom, Leigh serves on the Executive Committee for the National Trial Lawyers Association and holds memberships with the Federal Court Practice Section, the Montgomery County Trial Lawyers Association, the American Bar Association, the Christian Legal Society, the Federal Bar Association, and Public Justice. Leigh also serves on the Transvaginal Mesh and Talcum Powder Litigation Groups within the American Association for Justice. Leigh received mention on Best Lawyers’ 2022 Women in the Law list for her work in Health Care, Mass Tort Litigation/Class Actions, and Personal Injury Litigation. She received mention the previous year on Best Lawyers 2021 Mass Tort Litigation/Class Actions list in the Plaintiffs category. Leigh also received selection for the National Trial Lawyers’ Mass Tort Trial Lawyers Association Top 25 list, The National Trial Lawyers Association Top 100 Trial Lawyers list, and The Trial Lawyers’ RoundTable 50 Most Influential Trial Lawyers list. Leigh has received mention on the Best Lawyers in America list since 2011, Super Lawyers (Mid South region) since 2017, and Lawdragon 500 in 2019 and 2020.
Leigh O’Dell LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/leigh-odell-5337bb4/
Beasley Allen Social Media LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/beasley-allen-law-firm/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/BeasleyAllen Twitter - https://twitter.com/BeasleyAllen
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| 28 Mar 2023 | The Power of Heart-Driven Leadership with Hunter Shkolnik | 00:39:30 | |
Napoli Shkolnik Partner Hunter Shkolnik talks with Elisa D’Amico on his life as a personal injury trial lawyer practicing in Puerto Rico. He discusses his leadership style and why despite his success litigating mass tort claims, he still enjoys litigation personal injury. As Partner at Napoli Shkolnik, Hunter Shkolnik oversees personal injury cases within the firm, namely drug, automobile, aviation-related, and heavy truck product liability litigation. Hunter’s most recent leadership appointments include, Plaintiffs’ Executive Committee in National Prescription Opiate Litigation (MDL 2804), Co-Liaison Counsel in the Flint Water Crisis Litigation, Plaintiffs’ Executive Committee in In Re: Invokana (Canagliflozin) Products Liability Litigation (MDL 2750), and Plaintiffs’ Executive Committee in Johnson & Johnson Talcum Powder Products Marketing, Sales Practices and Products Liability Litigation (MDL 2738). Hunter served as a founding board member Trial Lawyers of Puerto Rico (TLPR)--a trade association for lawyers of Puerto Rico–and currently acts as Vice President. He also co-chairs multiple American Association of Justice (AAJ) groups, including the PFC Water Contamination Group and the Actos Bladder Cancer Litigation Group. Hunter also previously chaired for AAJ’s Healthcare Finance Litigation Group, Health Orthopedic Implant Litigation Group, Science Committee Director, and Health Breast Cancer Litigation Group. Hunter served on Law360’s 2020 Editorial Advisory Boards regarding Trials, and Law360’s 2021 Product Liability Advisory Board. Hunter has received Numerous law publications throughout his 20+ year career, including the American Association for Justice, The Best Lawyers in America, Lawdragon, the Litigation Counsel of America, The National Trial Lawyers, and Super Lawyers.
Hunter Shkolnik Social Media: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/hunter-j-shkolnik-70b2627/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/HunterShkolnik
Napoli Shkolnik - https://nsprlaw.com/en/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/NapoliShkolnik LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/napolishkolnik/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/NapoliShkolnik
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| 17 Jun 2024 | Baby Food Contamination, Who is complicit? With Brent Wisner | 00:25:27 | |
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| 05 Apr 2022 | The Expert Whisperer with Vicki Maniatis | 00:38:46 | |
Vicki J. Maniatis is a partner at Milberg Coleman Bryson Phillips Grossman who has worked on mass tort cases involving pharmaceuticals and medical devices for seventeen years. She is a frequent invited lecturer and moderator on a wide variety of pharmaceutical and mass tort cases including, Opioids, Trans Vaginal Mesh, Fosamax, Ortho Evra, Risperdal, Propecia, Avandia, Onglyza, as well as several medical devices. Vicki has been appointed by State and Federal Judges to serve as lead counsel and on Plaintiffs’ steering committees. She has significant experience performing all levels of bellwether trial case-specific work up including, plaintiff, spouse and family member depositions, implanting, explanting, treating physicians, sales representative, and expert depositions, for over 30 cases in several mass torts including TVM, Mirena and Propecia cases. Vicki serves as a founding member of Mass Tort Med School, an annual medical seminar for Plaintiffs’ attorneys that offers numerous physician speakers and cutting-edge medical issues. In May 2022, along with the Trial Lawyers of Puerto Rico, Mass Tort Med School is hosting Mass Torts Puerto Rico, a first-of-its-kind program where attorneys will have the opportunity to learn from and connect with world-class trial lawyers and experts – the Mass Tort Med School program will be bigger and better than ever. Remember to subscribe and follow us on social media… LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mass-tort-news | |||
| 24 May 2022 | Fighting Bad Conduct in America's Boardrooms | 00:47:14 | |
Today we're joined by Majed Nachawati, founder of the Fears Nachawati firm. Majed is well known as a prominent complex commercial litigator in the mass tort space and a leadership firm in emerging torts. Majed's firm is known for representing both individuals and governmental entities in dockets such as the opioid litigation, PFAS water contamination, and other major mass torts. Today we will be discussing three of the most relevant and prominent dockets in the legal world that impact both the plaintiff and defense bar. We engage in direct discussions on the Bayer/ Monsanto US Supreme Court appeal in the Hardeman Roundup verdict, originating in California State Court. Recently the US Solicitor General submitted a brief to the Supreme Court advising that the US Department of Justice and other federal agencies are not in favor of participating in the Monsanto- Hardeman appeal. We then go into the Johnson & Johnson Talcum Powder MDL and related state court litigation where J&J is using the Texas Two-Step legal process to file bankruptcy, related to their talcum powder liabilities, which are expected to exceed $12 billion. Majed is also a member of the J&J bankruptcy creditor's committee. Majed also discusses his lead role in the Texas winter freeze litigation, where the Texas Utility Power Commission and the power grid tragically failed the citizens of Texas and numerous lives were lost, properties were destroyed and damaged. Fears Nachawati was in a leadership role from the outset of the Texas winter freeze litigation, when they filed the first lawsuit within one week of the freeze taking place. The claims in this docket relate to the catastrophic failure of the utility and regulatory entity within the state of Texas to properly ensure the safety of its citizens. Majed clearly states that it is his position in the Texas winter freeze, Monsanto roundup, and the Johnson and Johnson talcum powder litigation to be an assertive representative of firm clients in these dockets to hold the corporate parties accountable for the ongoing and embedded bad conduct, which is clearly evident in the media and now being shown in a court of law. Remember to subscribe and follow us on social media… LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mass-tort-news | |||
| 21 Feb 2023 | Data-Driven Litigation with MSP Recovery Law Firm & LifeWallet Data Group with Frank Quesada | 00:43:54 | |
Frank Quesada serves as Co-Founder and Chief Legal Officer of LifeWallet (previously MSP Recovery) and Partner at the MSP Recovery Law Firm. Quesada boasts over 15 years of experience in healthcare and complex commercial litigation and manages legal strategies for MSP’s settlements, court proceedings, in-house attorneys, and coordination with several nationally recognized law firms that assist MSP Recovery. Quesada holds experience with a variety of complex commercial litigation cases in both state and federal courts with claims contract strategies, warranties, fraud, business torts, breaches of fiduciary duty, conspiracy, and products liability. Frank notably spearheaded cases that re-defined the Medicare Secondary Payer Act, including MSP Recovery v. Allstate (11th Circuit), MSPA Claims 1 v. Tenet (11th Circuit), MSPA Claims 1 v. Kingsway Amigo (11th Circuit), and MSP Recovery Claims Series v. Ace American (11th Circuit).
Before joining MSP Recovery in 2015, Frank practiced law privately for nearly 10 years. Outside of the courtroom, Frank serves as a USA Water Polo Director, a non-profit organization that operates under the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee which oversees the sport’s programming and growth at all levels (club teams, high school, and collegiate up to the Olympic Games). Frank also served his local Coral Gables, FL community as an elected City Commissioner and Vice Mayor from 2011-2019.
Frank Quesada Social Media LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-quesada-90a3561b/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/fquesa01 Website - https://www.frankcquesada.com/
MSP Recovery Social Media LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/msp-recovery/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089242146582 Twitter - https://twitter.com/lifewallet Website - https://www.msprecovery.com/
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| 13 Apr 2023 | Whatever it Takes: Dr. Stephen Loyd on Building a Community Based Addiction Recovery Ecosystem | 00:55:18 | |
Dr. Stephen Loyd is both a physician and a patient, but he is so much more. While he was in his residency, Dr. Loyd struggled with mental health issues, including anxiety and depression. He also struggled with alcohol and opiates, and is an addict who has spent years not only in recovery but also helping others battling addiction.
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| 11 Apr 2023 | 3M - Aearo Ear Plugs 7th Circuit Appeal Update with Jennifer Hoekstra | 00:12:58 | |
Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz (AWKO) partner Jennifer Hoekstra discusses her firm’s involvement on major MDLs, including NEC, Talcum powder and hair relaxer. Her other practice areas include defective drugs, defective medical devices, and orthopedic related law and science. Hoekstra remains best known for serving as plaintiff leadership in the bellwether victories during litigation against 3M for defective earplugs, yielding nearly $300 Million in compensatory damages for military veterans. Jennifer also maintained heavy involvement in the success of Genetically Modified Rice, Actos and DePuy Pinnacle Hip MDL bellwethers, resulting in over $11 Billion in total trial verdicts. In early Nov. 2022, AWKO announced a lawsuit against L'Oréal and Softsheen-Carson, asserting their hair relaxers cause uterine cancer. Jennifer currently serves as leadership on the case within the firm.
Hoekstra maintains memberships with the American Bar Association, the Lawyers Association, and Escambia-Santa Rosa County Bar Association. She currently serves as Co-Chair on the American Association for Justice’s Metal on Metal Hip Litigation and formerly served as President of the First Circuit Trial. Super Lawyers® also named Jennifer a “Top-Rated Class Action & Mass Torts Attorney” annually from 2016-2019.
Jennifer Hoekstra’s Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jhoekstra LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-hoekstra-aa77696/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/begoonia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenniferhoekstragupta/
Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz Social Media Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AWKOLaw/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justiceattys LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/awkolaw/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awkolaw/
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| 06 Jun 2023 | East Palestine, OH Train Derailment- A Norfolk Southern Disaster with Dena Young & Adam Gomez | 00:38:08 | |
Join us on this episode of LegalCast as Mark York, host of Mass Tort News, discusses the devastating East Palestine, Ohio train derailment and its aftermath with legal experts Dena Young from Berger Montague and Adam Gomez from Grant & Eisenhofer P.A.. In this engaging conversation, they shed light on the environmental impact of the derailment, the potential health risks faced by the affected community, and the legal challenges surrounding this catastrophic event. Dena and Adam delve into the details of the incident, highlighting the release of toxic chemicals and the widespread contamination of air, soil, and water. They emphasize the grave concerns regarding the long-term effects on the residents of East Palestine, who are fearful for their health and well-being. With a focus on providing assistance and representation to the affected individuals, they discuss the efforts being made to determine the extent of the damage caused by this tragedy. The discussion also touches upon the systemic issues within the railroad industry, particularly the prioritization of profit over safety. Adam explains how the deregulation of railroads has allowed for risky practices, such as precision scheduled railroading, which compromises safety measures. They stress the need for increased government oversight and proactive monitoring to prevent similar incidents in the future. Additionally, Dena and Adam address the lack of communication and transparency surrounding the hazardous materials being transported on rail cars. They highlight the failures in regulation and the obligation of railroad companies to provide essential information to ensure the safety of communities along the rail routes. The experts also discuss the potential legal arguments and defenses that may arise in this case, considering the federal regulations governing railroad safety. Join us for this insightful LegalCast episode to gain a comprehensive understanding of the East Palestine train derailment, its environmental implications, and the legal challenges faced by the affected community.
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| 16 Jun 2022 | Rick Meadow, Everybody Knows Your Name | 00:35:30 | |
Richard “Rick” Meadow is the National Mass Tort Leader as well as the Director of Business Development for The Lanier Law Firm. His responsibilities include overseeing all the firm’s pharmaceutical mass tort litigation in addition to promoting, recruiting, and maintaining associated outside relationships at a national level. Rick has represented the rights of individuals who have been injured by pharmaceuticals, medical devices, asbestos, medical malpractice, defective products, construction defects, lead poisoning, and motor vehicles, as well as the negligence of premises owners and municipalities for over 30 years. He further has extensive experience in the representation of large national insurance companies as an insurance defense attorney. This experience provides a 360-degree perspective of the practice of tort law in the United States. Rick has developed an extensive practice in mass tort and aggregate litigation. He has been nominated and selected to a variety of leadership positions by both his peers and courts across the country. He has served in leadership positions in many cases that have resulted in nationwide settlements. Rick has been working with Mark Lanier for over 30 years and is an integral part of the Lanier Trial Academy Master Class. This year’s Lanier Trial Academy 6.0 will take place on June 20-23, 2022 in Houston Texas. The program includes a third day and more content, including non-verbal cues, voir dire, examinations, and openings and closings. Check out the agenda here, and if you haven’t already, register here!
Read more about Rick here.
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| 23 Aug 2022 | Bankruptcy and Mass Torts: Is This a Standard Defense Tactic Now? | 01:02:50 | |
As founding and managing partner of Andrews Thornton LLC, Anne Andrews specializes in litigating personal injury mass tort cases involving bankruptcy and dangerous pharmaceuticals. Andrews recently started working with the Tort Claimants Creditors’ Committee, representing thousands of survivors who were sexually abused during their time in Boy Scouts, inspiring her to co-found the Coalition of Abused Scouts for Justice. Anne holds extensive experience in multi-district and multi-state litigation, serving on executive plaintiff committees in multiple federal MDL’s, and co-chairs the Official Creditors Committee. Anne maintains heavy involvement with Mass Torts Made Perfect (MTMP) and regularly gives seminars at their bi-annual national convention. In 2021, she received the MTMP Legal Innovation Award for her work for victims of mass tort bankruptcy. She has also previously served as President of the Orange County Trial Lawyers Association (OCTLA) and led the American Association for Justice (AAJ)’s Hydroxycut and Fungal Meningitis Litigation Groups. Anne received an Honorary JD from University of California Irvines’s School of Law for her firm's contributions to their program, which included working with the UCI moot court, funding a scholarship endowment, and serving on Dean Erwin Chemerinsky’s Advisory Committee. Outside of the courtroom, Anne sits on the leadership board of the Mission Plasticos, a non-profit that works to finance reconstructive surgery to those in need. She also serves as an advisor on a National Breast Cancer Coalition’s Artemis Project which researches preventative measures to stop breast cancer in women and men. Anne Andrews Social:
Andrews Thornton Social: Coalition of Abused Scouts for Justice - https://scoutingabusesurvivors.com/ Orange County Trial Lawyers Association - https://www.octla.org/ American Association for Justice - https://www.justice.org/ UCI Scholarship Endowment - https://www.law.uci.edu/news/press-releases/2021/andrews-thornton-scholarship.html
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| 26 Jul 2022 | From U.S. Marine to Toxic Exposed Veteran: Life After Camp Lejeune | 00:37:40 | |
Lamar Uquhart enlisted in the US Marine Corp in 1981 as a senior in high school and trained as an electrician at Camp Lejeune’s Courthouse Bay where he served until his 1982 deployment to Okinawa, Japan. Uquhart spent his next five years of active service shifting between Camp Lejeune, Cherry Point, NC, Okinawa, Japan, and San Diego. Spending his final year in the reserves, Uquhart received an honorable discharge in 1987 for his six full years of service. In 1983, the US military learned that Camp Lejeune's water contained high levels of toxic chemicals caused by an underground fuel leak. Although the Military knew thousands of marines and their families drank and bathed in contaminated water for decades, Urquhart only learned of his exposure after he began developing health conditions in 2009. By 2017, doctors officially diagnosed Lamar with H-Pylori, a bacterial infection of the stomach commonly contracted from exposure to contaminated water. To date, Uquhart suffers from 23 health conditions, most of which stem from exposure to polluted water. Though thousands of marines were poisoned from the US Military’s negligence, survivors of Lejeune struggle to receive healthcare and general support from the office of Veterans Affairs. Lamar advocates for himself and fellow survivors through social media activity and the advocacy group, Justice for Lejeune. ATSDR report: https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/sites/lejeune/tce_pce.html
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| 27 Feb 2024 | Camp Lejeune Questions? No Juries, Opt Outs & Cancer Study explained with Nevin Wisnoski | 00:04:45 | |
In this LegalCast episode, Mark York hosts Nevin Wisnowski, an associate attorney at Napoli Shkolnik, to provide an in-depth update on the Camp Lejeune litigation. Nevin discusses the current status of the litigation, highlighting impending deadlines for filing administrative notices of claim and recent court interpretations, notably the denial of jury trials for plaintiffs. He sheds light on the significant burden placed on the court system due to the high number of filed cases and administrative notices. Nevin explores the unique challenges posed by the Department of Justice (DOJ) as an adversary, emphasizing their different approach to defending government interests compared to typical defendants in mass tort cases. The denial of jury trials is analyzed, considering its implications for plaintiffs' strategies and expectations moving forward. Additionally, Nevin examines the elective option introduced by the DOJ and Navy, offering insights into its terms, limitations, and significance for eligible plaintiffs considering settlement. The likelihood of appeals and potential delays in the resolution process are also discussed, along with the importance of ongoing communication and global resolution efforts between plaintiff leadership and the DOJ to address the needs of affected plaintiffs and expedite case resolution. Overall, this episode provides a comprehensive overview of the complexities and challenges faced in the Camp Lejeune litigation.
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| 28 Feb 2023 | Litigating, Managing a Law Firm, and a Life Worth Living with Brent Wisner | 00:53:55 | |
R. Brent Wisner serves as the managing partner of Wisner Baum (previously Baum Hedlund Aristei & Goldman) and heads up the firm's state and federal involvement with Zantac litigation. Brent personally oversees the firm’s pharmaceutical class action litigation, toxic-tort injuries, and consumer fraud litigation. Wisner began gaining notoriety in 2017 after serving as Co-lead Trial Counsel in litigation against GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) for the drug Paxil, yielding a $3 million verdict. A year later, Wisner began litigation against Monsanto Roundup, earning plaintiffs over $2.424 billion in damages across three plaintiff lawsuits–and earning Brent the title of youngest attorney to earn a billion-dollar settlement.
Trial Lawyer Magazine named Brent to their 2019 list of “America’s 50 Most Influential Trial Lawyers,” and National Trial Lawyers awarded him “Civil Plaintiffs Trial Lawyer of the Year.” The National Law Journal also named Brent to both 2019 lists of “America’s 50 Most Influential Trial Lawyers” and “Winning Litigators, Titans of Industry.” Law360 awarded Brent the title of “MVP of the Year” in In 2020 for Products Liability and the National Law Journal and American Law Magazine inducted him into the Verdicts Hall of Fame. In 2021, Brent was awarded “West Trailblazer” by The American Lawyer, and Mass Torts Made Perfect awarded him with the “Clarence Darrow Award.” Most recently, The Litigation Counsel of America (LCA), a trial lawyer honor society, hand-picked Brent to receive the title of Associate Fellow in 2022 for his achievements as a leader across multiple dockets and his ethical commitment to plaintiff law.
Brent currently maintains heavy involvement in Ranitidine litigation (Zantac), serving as Co-Lead Plaintiffs’ Liaison Counsel for the Ranitidine Product Cases (MDL No. 2924) and Co-Chair of the American Association for Justice’s Zantac Litigation Group. Brent remains extremely active in the legal community and regularly presents at legal conferences, such as MTMP, AAJ, HarrisMartin and CAALA on Zantac litigation.
Brent Social Media LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/r-brent-wisner-94046458/ Bio - https://www.wisnerbaum.com/attorneys/r-brent-wisner/
Wisner Baum Social Media LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wisnerbaum/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/BaumHedlund Twitter - https://twitter.com/WisnerBaum
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| 11 Jan 2022 | Fighting Environmental Racism and Seeking Justice with Hunter Shkolnik | 00:33:57 | |
Hunter Shkolnik, a partner with Napoli Shkolnik, is a highly sought-after trial attorney who focuses his practice on the trials of significant personal injury cases, primarily in the area of drug, automobile, aviation-related, and heavy truck product liability litigation. Hunter leads trial teams for myriad mass tort pharmaceutical and medical device litigations and is active in managing national litigation and plaintiff litigation groups. Hunter also serves in leadership roles, some court-appointed, on Plaintiff Steering Committees in various drug and other mass torts. He has, over the years, held leadership roles in myriad organizations. Hunter and Napoli Shkolnik have teamed up with Ben Crump to fight what he calls “environmental racism,” including in Flint, Michigan, and other parts of the country. On December 30, 2021, after five months of testimony and several weeks of deliberating, a jury ruled in favor of New York State, Suffolk County, and Nassau County (represented by Napoli Shkolnik), finding that a group of drug companies created a public nuisance through their role in the opioid crisis. This case garnered a lot of attention, in part because it was the first time that the plaintiffs chose to sue everyone in the supply chain in the same lawsuit. Although the damages have yet to be determined, Hunter has estimated that the number could be in the tens or even hundreds of billions. The damages portion of the trial will take place in 2022. Hunter is also a founding board member of the Trial Lawyers of Puerto Rico, a trade association bringing together top trial lawyers to share expertise, build partnerships, and to add value to the local Puerto Rico community. The Trial Lawyers of Puerto Rico is hosting Mass Torts Puerto Rico in May 2022. Learn more here: www.masstortspuertorico.com. Remember to subscribe and follow us on social media… LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mass-tort-news | |||
| 25 May 2023 | Arizona ABS & The Lanier Law Firm with Rick Meadow | 00:24:46 | |
In this episode, host Mark York is joined by special guest Rick Meadow from the renowned Lanier Law Firm, live from Houston. They discuss the latest updates in the legal field, including the developments in the Arizona ABS (Alternative Business Structure) and its impact on the legal services industry. Rick Meadow shares insights into the opportunities and regulations surrounding ABS, allowing non-lawyers to invest in law firms and receive referral fees. He emphasizes the importance of ethical practices and the rigorous requirements involved in establishing and running an ABS. They also address concerns regarding the influence of money on legal proceedings and the need for due diligence when involving hedge funds or foreign investors.
The conversation then shifts to the upcoming Lanier 7.0 event, which has become a must-attend gathering for legal professionals. Mark and Rick discuss the history of the event and how it has evolved over the years to focus on trial techniques, demonstratives, jury psychology, and cutting-edge trial presentations. They highlight the value of Mark Lanier's expertise and his commitment to constantly improving trial advocacy.
Additionally, the episode touches on the Meadow Golf Tour Scramble, an annual golf outing organized by Rick Meadow, which has gained popularity among legal professionals. They discuss the fun-filled event, its growth over the years, and its reputation for being a great networking opportunity. Mark also mentions the charitable aspect of the Lanier event, clarifying that 100% of the proceeds go to Guatemala Sana, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing medical care and education to underprivileged Guatemalan children. The episode concludes with a preview of the upcoming Trial Academy, featuring exciting auctions and flash auctions for sports memorabilia, all in support of Guatemala Sana.
Join Mark York and Rick Meadow as they delve into the latest legal developments, share valuable insights, and highlight the significance of giving back through charitable endeavors. Don't miss this informative and engaging episode of LegalCast.
Lanier 7.0 event: https://laniertrialacademy.com/home Meadow Golf Tour Scramble: https://laniertrialacademy.com/pre-conference-events Lainer Law Firm: https://www.lanierlawfirm.com/ Rick Meadow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-meadow-8206885/
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| 03 Jan 2022 | Breaking News: Jury Concludes Pharmaceutical Companies Fueled Opioid Crisis in NY w/ Hunter Shkolnik | 00:20:29 | |
Join Hunter Shkolnik, lead counsel in the Opioid Litigation, as we discuss the jury verdict win in The New York state court opioid trial, where the jury ruled against Opioid Big Pharma on the "public nuisance" claims, following a seven month trial. Hunter Shkolnik, Napoli Shkolnik, PLLC | |||
| 03 May 2022 | Leading the Fight for Opioid Addicted Infants | 00:22:23 | |
Stephen P New. of Beckley West Virginia is one of the country’s leading opioid litigators, by bringing the fight directly to Opioid Big Pharma's doorstep. Steve and the Opioid Justice Team have been defending and advocating for the rights of the neonatal abstinence syndrome afflicted infants, aka the "NAS Babies." Who are the truly innocent victims of the now decades-old opiate crisis in America. Remember to subscribe and follow us on social media… LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mass-tort-news | |||
| 31 May 2023 | Preserving Health & Seeking Justice: Gardasil MDL Update with Rachel Lanier | 00:33:55 | |
Don't miss this eye-opening LegalCast episode featuring Elisa D'Amico and Rachel Lanier as they dive deep into the controversial topic of the Gardasil vaccine. In this thought-provoking discussion, they shed light on the alarming issues surrounding the vaccine's efficacy and safety. Tune in as Rachel shares her firsthand insights into the case, revealing the startling truths behind the rushed market release and inadequate testing of this widely administered vaccine. Join Elisa and Rachel as they dissect the marketing strategies employed by pharmaceutical giant Merck and expose the hidden risks associated with Gardasil. Discover why concerned parents and individuals alike should be aware of the potential autoimmune injuries caused by the vaccine, with a particular focus on Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) and its debilitating effects. Prepare to be captivated by their conversation, as they uncover the manipulation of regulatory bodies, the targeting of vulnerable populations, and the crucial need for transparency in the medical industry. Gain valuable insights into the legal implications and ongoing lawsuits surrounding the Gardasil vaccine, including the current MDL before Judge Connolly in North Carolina. Whether you're a parent, a healthcare advocate, or simply interested in understanding the truth behind this controversial vaccine, this LegalCast episode is a must-watch. Don't miss the opportunity to educate yourself on the Gardasil vaccine and its potential impact on individuals' lives. Join Elisa and Rachel as they empower viewers with knowledge and engage in a compelling conversation about the importance of informed decision-making in matters of healthcare.
Remember to subscribe to our channel and hit the notification bell to stay updated with future LegalCast episodes. Share this video with others who may benefit from this crucial discussion. Together, let's uncover the truth and protect the well-being of ourselves and our loved ones.
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| 22 Nov 2022 | Whistleblowers in America, an underserved practice area? With Jackie Garrick | 00:26:33 | |
Jacqueline “Jackie” Garrick currently serves as Founder and President of the Non-Profit, Whistleblowers of America (WoA). Jackie founded WoA in 2017 after seeing first-hand how destructive whistleblowing can be one's career, personal life, and emotional stability. WoA offers resources and community to whistleblowers across America, spreading awareness, training, and advocacy in whistleblowing. Jackie graduated with a degree in social work from Temple University in 1986 and joined the Army in 1992 as a social work officer with the rank of Captain. After an honorable discharge in 1995, Garrick became the Deputy Director of Healthcare for the American Legion. In 2005, Garrick continued working with veterans as an analyst on the Veterans Disability Benefits Commission in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), then served as a staff member on the House Committee on Veterans Affairs. In 2009, the Obama Administration appointed Jackie to serve in the office of Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness (P&R) in the Department of Defense (DoD). During her appointment, she organized Defense Suicide Prevention Office (DSPO) which provided mental health resources to veterans. In 2022, Jackie co-authored the book The Psychosocial Impacts of Whistleblower Retaliation: Shattering Employee Resilience and the Workplace Promise with Martina Buck. She also authored the Whistleblowers of America Peer Support Mentor Training Manual: Peer Support in overcoming the toxic tactics of whistleblower retaliation in 2018. Jackie remains active in advocacy for whistleblowers, specifically government employee and veteran whistleblowers. Jackie Garrick Social Media LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackie-garrick-321189a/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/jacqueline.garrick.1 Twitter - https://twitter.com/GarrickJackie
Whistleblowers of America Social Media LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/whistleblowersofamerica/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/whistleblowersofamerica Twitter - https://twitter.com/WhistleP2P Website - https://www.whistleblowersofamerica.org/
Jackie’s Story by Whistleblower Network New - https://whistleblowersblog.org/whistleblower-of-the-week/jacqueline-garrick/
The Psychosocial Impacts of Whistleblower Retaliation - https://www.amazon.com/Psychosocial-Impacts-Whistleblower-Retaliation-Shattering/dp/3031190548/ref=sr_1_1?qid=1666719621&refinements=p_27%3AJacqueline+Garrick&s=books&sr=1-1
Whistleblowers of America Peer Support Mentor Training Manual - https://www.amazon.com/Whistleblowers-America-Support-Mentor-Training-ebook/dp/B07CZQV2ZM/ref=sr_1_3?qid=1666719621&refinements=p_27%3AJacqueline+Garrick&s=books&sr=1-3
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| 15 Feb 2022 | If It's Broke, Fix It with Jessie Hoerman | 00:37:12 | |
Jessica Hoerman, founder of SimplyConvert, is a business owner, a lawyer, a CPA, and so much more. In 2009 she built TorHoerman Law – a mass tort and personal injury firm – with her husband. But that wasn’t the end for her. In 2019 she built and launched SimplyConvert to control the chaos of legal intakes that overwhelms law firms and diversifies client inventory. Jess’s journey to building SimplyConvert started years earlier, when she realized that her firm was clients because of shifting consumer expectations that the firm wasn’t keeping up with. Although understood the problem she needed to solve, she could not find the answer in the legal market. She teamed up with her neighbor and friend Marty Chrenka, and the rest was history. SimplyConvert simplifies legal intake for all parties by providing clients with a simple and painless way to submit their legal issue by trusting the process. SimplyConvert clients often sign contracts instantly. Lawyer created automation puts every step of the client intake journey – from first conversation to signed client – on autopilot. SimplyConvert assures that every marketing dollar is maximized in this competitive industry. And its criteria-based questions allow tech-forward law firms a unique opportunity to convert more potential clients into contracted clients. Jess wears many hats, one of which is a mentoring hat – she is dedicated to mentoring women lawyers who want to connect and learn. Jess believes that mentoring is critical to the practice of law and to the building of law firms and other legal-related businesses. If you’d like to connect with her to discuss mass torts, legal intake, tech, or how she keeps her coffee mug warm all day, email her at jess@simplyconvert.com SimplyConvert.com https://pages.simplyconvert.com/schedule-a-demo Remember to subscribe and follow us on social media… LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mass-tort-news | |||
| 25 Jul 2023 | Building on Community Legacy and Scaling the Dream with Riah W. Greathouse | 00:30:16 | |
Join Elisa D’Amico as she sits down with Riah W Greathouse, Esq., a passionate trial attorney committed to fighting for justice. In this engaging interview, Riah shares his journey into law, inspired by his family's legal background and his desire to stand up for the underrepresented. He discusses his unique perspective on building a team that focuses on providing value and a stellar client experience. Riah and Elisa also explore the importance of co-counseling with like-minded attorneys and the need for diversity in the legal field. Learn about Riah's personal hero, his grandfather, whose legacy continues to inspire and motivate him to create a lasting impact for generations to come. Don't miss this insightful conversation about the secrets to building a successful law firm that values both results and compassion. Watch now and discover how Riah W Greathouse, Esq., is reshaping the legal landscape, one case at a time.
https://atltriallaw.com/attorneys/riah-greathouse/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/riahgreathouse/
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| 16 May 2023 | Evolving Camp LeJeune with Marcus Susen | 00:31:34 | |
In this LegalCast interview, we sit down with Marcus Susen, a principal attorney at the Susen Law Group, renowned for their expertise in mass tort and mass litigation cases. With over a decade of experience in the field, Marcus shares valuable insights into the ongoing Camp Lejeune litigation, which focuses on the contamination of water sources at the military base and its impact on veterans and their families. Join us as Marcus discusses the importance of visiting the incident site, the challenges in resolving a large number of claims, the role of leadership in the litigation process, and the potential for a comprehensive database to facilitate settlements. Gain a deeper understanding of this significant legal battle and its implications for affected individuals by watching this informative interview.
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| 26 Apr 2022 | Crisis Management & Media Training for Lawyers | 00:45:17 | |
George Haj is a Pulitzer-Prize winning editor who founded Haj Media in 2017. Haj Media is a strategic communications firm focusing on crisis communications, media relations, and litigation support for law firms and corporate clients. Prior to launching his own consulting firm, George spent three decades working in some of the nation’s largest news organizations. He has deep roots in the media industry and connections with reporters and editors in a range of publications across the country. George worked as executive business editor at the Miami Herald and then was a top editor at the Houston Chronicle. He also served as editorial director of ALM Media, where he directed a global newsroom of more than 100 journalists and oversaw iconic brands including The American Lawyer and National Law Journal. He can be reached at george@hajmedia.com. Find him on Twitter, LinkedIn, and at hajmedia.com.
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| 18 Oct 2022 | General Motors Big Auto - Bad Auto | 00:27:14 | |
Adam J. Levitt serves as founding partner at Dicello Levitt and specializes in class actions and complex MDLs, with both commercial and public clients. According to DiCello Levitt, Levitt has aided in recovering almost $20 billion for plaintiffs across areas including consumer protection, automotive defects, biotechnology, security disputes, agricultural products, antitrust, insurance coverage, and financial services. Adam recently received appointment to the largest ongoing PFAS water contamination case in the U.S. by the State Attorneys General. Adam previously served as co-lead counsel in the three largest biotech class action lawsuits in American history, securing $1.1 billion in settlements from contamination in genetically modified rice seeds. He also revitalized biotech litigation by engineering a new way of measuring crop contamination damages by examining an economic model of his own creation–a practice now commonplace among the industry. Multiple ranking services have recognized Adam for his work. Chambers USA honored Adam with a Brand 1 ranking in the Illinois Mainly Plaintiffs Litigation category. Adam received Benchmark Litigation’s National Litigation Star: Securities and Litigation Star in Illinois award two years running (2021-2022). Christopher Stombaugh serves as partner at Dicello Levitt and specializes in medical malpractice and defective product and medical device litigation. According to DiCello Levitt, Chris finds passion in “advancing the art and science of trial advocacy.” as a member of their Trial Practice Team. As an active member in multiple trial lawyer associations, Chris regularly speaks to state bar and trial lawyer associations nationwide and enjoys teaching trial lawyers cognitive neuroscience for their clients benefit. Chris served as 2014 of the Wisconsin Association for Justice and he has been named in Wisconsin Super Lawyer every year since 2010 and speaks fluent Spanish. Adam J. Levitt Social LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-levitt-87216b/ Christopher Stombaugh Social LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-stombaugh-2628536a/
Dicello Levitt LLC Social DiCello Levitt Chicago - 312.214.7900 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/dicellolevitt/ Facebook - https://twitter.com/DiCelloLevitt Twitter - https://www.facebook.com/DiCelloLevitt
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| 16 Aug 2022 | China, Big Pharma, and Fentanyl: Who’s Doing What to Stop Fentanyl Exports? | 00:40:28 | |
Keegan Hamilton currently serves as a Sr Reporter and Correspondent for VICE, focusing on organized crime, prisons, and the drug trade. Keegan also hosts two podcasts that also focus on the use and distribution of illicit drugs, Chapo: Kingpin on Trial and Painkiller: America's Fentanyl Crisis. Keegan has regularly written for other big-name news outlets including Medium, Business Insider, BuzzFeed, The Atlantic, Salon, and The Village Voice, to name a few. National Council on Crime and Delinquency honored Keegan’s reporting work with the 2011 P.A.S.S. Award, given to “those that help people understand the complex causes of crime and what must be done to prevent and control it.” Recently, Keegan investigated a Chinese fentanyl smuggler system which funnels drugs into the US by way of Mexico. Keegan Social: Remember to subscribe and follow us on social media… LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mass-tort-news | |||
| 26 Sep 2023 | Exposing the Troubled Teen Institutional Industry with Caleb Cunningham | 00:35:20 | |
In this eye-opening LegalCast, Caleb Cunningham from Levin Papantonio Rafferty and Mark York discuss the harrowing realities of the Troubled Teen Industry, shedding light on the rampant abuse and negligence these facilities perpetrate. This multi-billion dollar, unregulated industry operates under various names, from reformatory schools to wilderness camps, and it's causing immeasurable harm to vulnerable children. Caleb Cunningham reveals a groundbreaking lawsuit they're filing against the state of Alabama for locking up children without providing them with proper education. The conditions these kids endure are shocking, with reports of blood and feces on the walls, staff negligence, and even fatalities. Mark York and Caleb Cunningham emphasize that this issue is not isolated to one region; it's a nationwide crisis. Private organizations driven by profit run many of these facilities, and they prey on troubled children, subjecting them to physical and sexual abuse. The LegalCast highlights the financial interests of hedge funds in these institutions, showcasing the urgency of exposing this dark industry's practices. Paris Hilton's personal experience in these facilities serves as a stark reminder that anyone could fall victim to this corrupt system. They discuss the potential for legislative reforms and the importance of coordinating efforts among plaintiff attorneys to seek justice for these victims. The conversation concludes with a call to action, urging those interested in joining the fight against the Troubled Teen Industry to reach out and get involved. Stay informed, share this LegalCast, and let's work together to protect our children and expose the truth about this hidden crisis.
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| 31 Jan 2023 | History of the Lejeune Community Assistance Panel with Mike Partain Part 2 | 00:57:25 | |
Mike Partain serves as an advocate for those poisoned from contaminated water on the Camp Lejeune Marine base. Mike received exposure to Lejeune’s contaminated water in-utero and as a baby which resulted in him developing male breast cancer at the age of 39. Since 2007, Mike has served as a community representative for those exposed to chemically contaminated water at Camp Lejeune. Since then, Mike has become recognized as a Camp Lejeune expert and has testified twice for the U.S. Congress. President Obama also invited Mike to the White House for the signing of the 2012 Janey Ensminger Act. Before becoming a Camp Lejeune Advocate, he worked as a history teacher at Bartow High School in Polk County, North Carolina and he now works in the insurance industry
Camp Lejeune Community Assistance Panel and Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease - https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/sites/lejeune/docs/CL_CAP_Charter_2016_508.pdf
Community Assistance Panel (CAP) Meetings Transcripts - https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/sites/lejeune/capmeetings.html
Mike Partain Social Media Twitter - https://twitter.com/PartainMike LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-partain-44759a6a/
The Few, The Proud, The Forgotten - http://tftptf.com/
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| 05 Dec 2023 | Forecasting An MDL Viability "What are the tells" with Joseph Fantini | 00:43:25 | |
In this LegalCast episode, host Mark York engages in a deep dive into the world of mass torts with Joe Fantini from Rosen Injury Lawyers. Joe's extensive legal journey, from a law clerk in Philadelphia's Court of Common Pleas to transitioning between defense and plaintiff representation, provides a rich backdrop for the discussion. He emphasizes the diversity in firms engaging in mass torts, highlighting the opportunities for both large and small-scale firms to make a substantial impact. Throughout the conversation, Joe stresses the collective strength of legal alliances, emphasizing how firms banding together can effect significant change against corporate giants, benefiting affected individuals and reshaping market practices. He sheds light on ongoing cases in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas, such as Roundup and Zantac, underlining the importance of venue familiarity in these litigations. Joe shares insights into compiling and disseminating complex tort-related information for wider comprehension, extending a helping hand to fellow attorneys navigating these intricate cases. The conversation navigates ethical concerns within the legal and marketing spheres, highlighting the need for genuine relationships with lead-generating vendors and anticipating increased regulation for industry integrity. Amidst newer, uncertain cases, Joe pinpoints Roundup and Hernia Mesh as promising litigations due to their defined criteria and ongoing developments, offering valuable guidance for firms considering involvement in these cases. https://roseninjurylawyers.com/
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| 24 Jan 2023 | NEC Updates: Initial Discovery, Bellwethers, & Defense Strategy With Sara Papantonio | 00:24:23 | |
Levin Papantonio Associate attorney Sara Papantonio serves as point for the firm’s involvement in mass tort litigation for Necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) contamination in baby formula. Sara graduated from Stetson University College of Law in 2020 and served as a member of the Stetson Trial team, ranked #1 nationally. Sara earned the title of Regional Champion and National Finalist at the 2020 National Trial Competition. Sara also acted as Senior Associate for Stenson’s Law Review.
Upon her graduation, Sara received a faculty nomination for induction to the Order of Barristers, a national organization that recognizes individuals who have excelled in advocacy and service at their law schools. Papantonio also received Stetson’s Richard Harris Ferrell Competition award for “the student advocate who has best-demonstrated excellence through his or her performance in intercollegiate competitions.”
Sara Papantonio social LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-papantonio-57245a9b/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sara.papantonio
Levin Papantonio Rafferty Law Firm LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/levin-papantonio-thomas-mitchell-rafferty-&-proctor-p-a-/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/levinpapantonioraffertylaw/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/LevinPapantonio Twitter - https://twitter.com/LevinPapantonio/
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| 04 Jul 2023 | 3M’s $12.2B PFAS Settlement & VA Misinforms Camp Lejeune Survivors | 00:38:44 | |
Elisa D'Amico sat down with esteemed trial attorney Hunter Shkolnik for a thought-provoking interview, delving into the intricate complexities and challenges surrounding major litigations concerning toxic water contamination cases, including the Camp Lejeune lawsuits and the PFAS/AFFF lawsuits. As they embarked on this journey, they aimed to shed light on the struggles faced by veterans, the government's misleading tactics, and the impact of the recent $12.2B PFAS settlement offer by 3M. Their conversation also touched upon ongoing legal efforts in personal injury cases, highlighting the tireless pursuit of justice for those affected by toxic water contamination. One of the key topics they explored was the VA's handling of disability benefits for Camp Lejeune survivors. Shkolnik exposed how the VA misleads veterans affected by the Camp Lejeune water contamination by falsely claiming that filing a lawsuit would inevitably impact their disability benefits. He clarified that such claims are misleading, emphasizing that filing a claim does not automatically affect disability benefits. The decision to settle or go to trial lies in the hands of the plaintiff, not the attorney. They highlighted the devastating consequences of veterans missing out on potential recovery due to false information and the importance of spreading awareness about the filing deadline. Shkolnik and D’Amico unveiled the government's use of scare tactics to discourage veterans from exercising their rights, underscoring the vital role played by experienced attorneys in guiding veterans through their legal journey. They emphasized the need for veterans to seek justice without succumbing to the government's misleading narratives. The conversation then shifted towards the management of massive cases involving hundreds of thousands of plaintiffs affected by water contamination. Shkolnik shed light on the overwhelming number of claims and the complex intricacies involved in handling such litigations. They stressed the significance of competent legal representation in ensuring that each deserving case receives the attention it deserves. They discussed heartbreaking stories of children born and immediately dying with devastating conditions directly linked to the contaminated water. They underscored the government's lack of accountability in addressing these distressing cases and the urgency to protect those who served their country. The interview also touched upon the recent PFAS settlement by 3M, amounting to a staggering $12.2 billion. They delved into how this settlement primarily aimed to benefit water providers by assisting them in removing PFAS chemicals from the supply, consequently preventing drastic water bill increases for Americans. Shkolnik clarified that the PFAS settlement did not compensate individuals with personal injury claims. They highlighted the existence of separate potential claims for those affected, leaving the door open for future settlements in personal injury cases. As their insightful discussion came to a close, D’Amico and Shkolnik emphasized the importance of raising awareness about the challenges faced by veterans and victims of water contamination. They encouraged viewers to stay informed about ongoing legal efforts and the pursuit of justice for those impacted by toxic water.
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| 12 Jul 2022 | Camp Lejeune: A Survivor's Story of Betrayal and the Fight for Justice | 00:53:53 | |
Lori Freshwater shares her experience growing up at Camp Lejeune, drinking, cooking, and bathing in contaminated water. Poised to be the largest environmental contamination in the US, Freshwater shares memories and lasting effects of the government's negligence towards military families exposed at Camp Lejeune. As an author and investigative health and science journalist, Lori Freshwater serves as a leading voice among Camp Lejeune contamination survivors. Freshwater received her MA in Journalism from the City University of New York and based her capstone piece on her experience at Lejeune. Beyond her personal experience at Lejeune, Freshwater served on the CDC’s Camp Lejeune Community Assistance Panel for nearly a decade. Freshwater is currently working with the University of Chicago Press on a book discussing environmental contamination by the Department of Defense.
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| 25 Jun 2023 | Titanic Tragedy: The Catastrophic Loss of the Titan Submersible with Hunter Shkolnik | 00:25:11 | |
Elisa D’Amico interviews Hunter Shkolnik of Napoli Shkolnik about the tragic implosion of the Titan, a submersible operated by OceanGate Expeditions, that disappeared in international waters in the North Atlantic Ocean, about 400 nautical miles off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada. The two discuss the risks and implications of extreme adventure tourism, the international rescue/recovery mission, and how the fatal implosion that killed five people on board is expected to play out in the courts. OceanGate Expeditions invited passengers to sail from the Atlantic coast of Canada for an 8-day expedition to dive on the iconic RMS Titanic shipwreck that lies 380 miles offshore and 3,800 meters below the surface. Advertised as both a thrilling travel experience and a research expedition, at $250,000 a ticket, it catered to wealthy individuals seeking to push the boundaries of their physical and mental capabilities. For four days, personnel from the United States, Canada, France, and Britain, scanned thousands of square miles of open seas with planes and ships for any sign of the submersible. Shkolnik expresses disappointment about how the salacious media coverage of the search largely overshadowed the aftermath of a far greater maritime disaster stemming from the wreck of a migrant vessel off the coast of Greece the week before, killing hundreds of people. Lawsuits are expected to be filed, though the outcome remains uncertain. Shkolnik discusses his experience litigating waivers, and describes the OceanGate Expeditions waiver as particularly robust. Wrongful death lawsuits against OceanGate Expeditions are expected to seek recovery against the company for “gross negligence.” Shkolnik suggests there may be claims filed seeking reimbursement for the costs of search and recovery, which lawsuits may involve insurance carriers, among others, as well as against manufacturers, and other potential stakeholders. As we learn more about the facts about what happened, we’ll gain a better understanding of who will be held accountable for this preventable tragedy.
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| 17 Jan 2023 | Updates in Abbott Formula, Tylenol, and NEC from PSC member Patrick Luff | 00:44:36 | |
Luff Law founding partner Patrick Luff currently serves as plaintiff leadership in MDL 2436 regarding the effects of prenatal exposure to acetaminophen, MDL 3026 for NEC contaminated baby formula, and MDL 3037 regarding recalled baby formula by Abbott Laboratories. Patrick maintains national recognition for his instrumental role in winning multi-million dollar victories for plaintiffs having previously served as Co-Lead Counsel in the Texas MDL No. 2021-41903 (Winter Storm Uri Litigation) and on the Plaintiffs’ Steering Committee in MDL No. 2974 (Paragard IUD Products Liability Litigation). Luff famously won a $15.4 million wrongful death judgment and a precedent-setting federal appeal, while also leading the charge in Paraquat Products Liability MDL consolidated.
Before founding his private practice, Patrick taught legislation and statutory interpretation, civil procedure, and administrative law at University of Oklahoma, Arizona State University, and Washington and Lee University. In 2013 Luff served as a visiting scholar at Max Planck Institute in Heidelberg, Germany and later earned a Ph.D (A.B.D) in law at the University of Oxford.
Luff Law Social Media Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lufflaw LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/luff-law-firm-pllc/
Patrick Luff Social Media LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickluff/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/patrick.luff.315
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| 16 Jun 2023 | 3M/Aearo Earplugs Bankruptcy Dismissal Update with Jennifer Hoekstra | 00:23:53 | |
Mark York and Jennifer Hoekstra discuss the recent developments in the 3M bankruptcy case, shedding light on the ongoing litigation, settlement negotiations, and the impact on the plaintiffs and law firms involved. Jennifer, a prominent bankruptcy litigation and plaintiff's lawyer, provides valuable insights into the complex legal landscape surrounding the 3M bankruptcy. The conversation touches upon various aspects, including 3M's attempts to disrupt the litigation process, the bankruptcy's role in the settlement negotiations, the involvement of Aero, and the intertwined relationship between 3M and Aero. Jennifer clarifies that the bankruptcy was primarily a strategic decision by 3M to halt the bellwether discovery process and force negotiations under disadvantageous conditions. They delve into the timeline of events, highlighting the efforts made to resolve the litigation outside of bankruptcy and the subsequent impasse declaration in the MDL mediation. Despite setbacks caused by the bankruptcy filing, Jennifer emphasizes that progress has been made in getting 3M and Aero out of bankruptcy, allowing the mediation to resume in the MDL. She also addresses concerns raised by smaller law firms regarding the next steps in the case and reassures them that the litigation posture remains positive, backed by substantial trial information and the support of the MDL leadership. Throughout the discussion, Jennifer provides key updates on pending appeals, ongoing litigations, and the priority list for trials. She emphasizes that the science supporting the plaintiffs' claims has strengthened over the years, making the outlook favorable for those involved. Join Mark and Jennifer as they delve into the intricacies of the 3M bankruptcy case and shed light on the way forward for the plaintiffs, law firms, and the legal proceedings at large.
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| 17 Nov 2022 | OPIOID LITIGATION: "Where We're At With Shayna Sacks" | 00:16:56 | |
Shayna E. Sacks serves as Partner in the Napoli Shkolnik PLLC Pharmaceutical litigation department. Sacks litigates across America, but primarily focuses on the North East, maintaining Bar admissions in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. Sacks currently serves as docket leadership in the In re: McKinsey & Co., Inc. National Prescription Opiate Consultant Litigation and on the Plaintiff’s Steering Committee in the In Re: Proton-Pump Inhibitor Products Liability Litigation (MDL 2789). She previously served as the Plaintiffs’ Liaison Counsel for In Re: Plavix Product Liability and Marketing Litigation (MDL 2418). Best Lawyers in America included Shayna in their 2023 edition for Plaintiff Tort Litigation/Class Actions and Product Liability Litigation. Best Lawyers also named Shayna to their 2022 edition for her work in Mass Tort litigation, class actions, and product liability. Shayna has also received annua; recognition from the New York Metro Super Lawyers® since 2018. Outside of the courtroom, Shayna remains active in the Mass Tort community by regularly speaking on opioid litigation at conferences across the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Despite specializing in opioid litigation, Shayna passionately advocates for stronger allergy guidelines in food manufacturing and labeling. McKinsey & Co., Inc. National Prescription Opiate Litigation - https://dockets.justia.com/docket/california/candce/3:2021md02996/379920 Proton-Pump Inhibitor Litigation - https://www.njd.uscourts.gov/proton-pump-mdl-2789 Plavix Product and Marketing Litigation - https://www.njd.uscourts.gov/plavix-product-liability-and-marketing-litigation Shayna Social Media LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaynaesacks/ Napoli Shkolnik PLLC Social Media LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/napolishkolnik/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/NapoliShkolnik/ Twitter - https://mobile.twitter.com/NapoliShkolnik Remember to subscribe and follow us on social media… LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mass-tort-news | |||
| 03 Jan 2023 | whistleblower.org Government Accountability Project with David Seide | 00:28:57 | |
David Seide serves as Senior Counsel at Government Accountability Project (GAP), a non-profit supporting government whistleblowers, where he specializes in immigration issues. David began his career in 1983 after earning a JD from NYU Law in the federal court system as a clerk to Hon. Morris E. Lasker. David soon rose to the position of Assistant US Attorney, serving as a White Collar and Securities Fraud Prosecutor. Before joining GAP, David worked as Special Counsel to U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley and served as Partner at multiple private practices through the years. David also holds experience as Lead of High-Profile Internal Investigations for the U.S. Department of State. David has authored multiple books on internal and governmental investigations, including Warning the Witness: A Guide to Internal Investigations and the Attorney-Client Privilege and Navigating Multiple Government Investigations: Critical Issues and Guiding Principles.
Warning the Witness: A Guide to Internal Investigations and the Attorney-Client Privilege - https://www.amazon.com/Warning-Witness-Investigations-Attorney-Client-Privelege/dp/160442916X
Navigating Multiple Government Investigations: Critical Issues and Guiding Principles - https://www.americanbar.org/products/ecd/ebk/217821/
David Seide Social Media LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-z-seide-a648965/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/davidseide
Government Accountability Project Social Media LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/government-accountability-project/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/GovernmentAccountabilityProject Twitter - https://twitter.com/GovAcctProj Homepage - https://whistleblower.org/
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| 19 Apr 2022 | Prep Like a Pro: Legal Networking Tips & Tricks | 00:38:33 | |
With four decades of experience in legal advertising with a passion for legal marketing, intake, and conversion, Harlan Schillinger has more than earned his title as the Grandfather of Legal Advertising. Harlan was the first in the industry to produce and market TV advertising for the legal community. In 1975, along with his partners, Harlan founded the first syndication TV production firm for high-end retailers and Lawyers, creating television commercials that aired throughout North America. Since the late 1970s, Harlan has worked aggressively, productively, and professionally within the legal advertising space. He has said that: “Creating opportunities and increasing market share for advertising law firms is [his] #1 priority. The value of the case is everything in such a crowded market.” Harlan privately consults with lawyers who not only share his values, but who also share his vision of increasing business, being accountable, and obtaining high-value cases. His approach to intake and conversion rests on complete accountability within that area and he is known to practice what he preaches. Harlan has trademarked within the legal advertising world the two phrases that have become his backbone of philosophy: What You Don't Know, You Don't Know® and Ambassador of First Impressions™. Since that time, Harlan has worked with more than 130 law firms in almost 100 markets throughout North America. Before joining Network Affiliates in 1985, Harlan was a founding partner and VP of Madison, Muyskens & Jones, a Connecticut-based advertising agency. In April 2016 Harlan retired from Colorado-based Network Affiliates, the nation's first and largest full-service legal advertising agency, where he was the leader of their attorney marketing efforts for over 34 years. A few years ago, Harlan and two of his partners – Dino Colombo Esq. and Eric Coffman – developed Lead Docket, software for intake and conversion within law firms. Harlan says that Lead Docket helps law firms increase control and management of intake and conversion, allowing the firms to thrive. Harlan is involved with a number of professional organizations, being a member of the National Trial Lawyers Executive Summit Committee as well as a Senior Editor and Writer for the National Trial Lawyers Magazine. He also has a passion for riding and building custom motorcycles, and is a proud member of the most prestigious motorcycle group in the world: Hamsters USA ® Motorcycle Group. Learn more about Harlan at www.harlanschillinger.com. And click here to check out the book he recommends – How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie and originally published in 1936.
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| 29 Mar 2022 | Toxic Heavy Metals in Baby Food with Pedram Esfandiary | 00:38:01 | |
Pedram Esfandiary is an attorney in the Los Angeles office of Baum Hedlund Aristei & Goldman, where he concentrates his practice on toxic tort injuries, pharmaceutical drug liability, class actions, consumer fraud litigation and police misconduct lawsuits. He currently leads the firm’s legal team that is filing lawsuits against manufacturers of baby food for knowingly selling baby food with with “dangerously high levels” of toxic heavy metals. This new mass tort litigation involves allegations against the major brand manufacturers (Nurture Happy Family Organics, Beech-But, Hain, Plum Organics, Walmart-Parent’s Choice, Sprout Foods and Gerber) that their baby food contains dangerous levels of arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury, which are all considered toxic heavy metals and are known to damage neurological development and brain development in infants and are associated with autism and ADHD in children. Pedram was an integral part of the trial team that won the historic $2 billion verdict against Monsanto (now Bayer) in May 2019 on behalf of a couple who together sprayed Roundup weed killer on their properties for 30 years. The jury awarded Alva and Alberta Pilliod $55 million in compensatory damages. Pedram was also served in a similar capacity on the very first Roundup cancer case to go to trial against Monsanto, resulting in a $289 million verdict on behalf of groundskeeper Dewayne “Lee” Johnson. And he participated in the second Roundup trial against Monsanto on behalf of Edwin Hardeman. The jury in that trial awarded Mr. Hardeman $80 million for his damages. A winner on Law360’s Rising Stars Top 40 Under 40 list for 2019, Pedram has been recognized as an attorney whose legal accomplishments transcends his age. He has also been selected to Southern California Super Lawyers® – Rising Stars and the National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40. Read Pedram’s full bio on the Baum Hedlund website here. Remember to subscribe and follow us on social media… LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mass-tort-news | |||
| 14 Feb 2023 | Plaintiff Wins Bankruptcy in 3m Ear Plugs and J&J LTL MDLs with Jennifer Hoekstra | 00:30:15 | |
Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz (AWKO) partner Jennifer Hoekstra discusses her firm’s involvement on major MDLs, including NEC, Talcum powder, and hair relaxer. Her other practice areas include defective drugs, defective medical devices, and orthopedic-related law and science. Hoekstra remains best known for serving as plaintiff leadership in the bellwether victories during litigation against 3M for defective earplugs, yielding nearly $300 Million in compensatory damages for military veterans. Jennifer also maintained heavy involvement in the success of Genetically Modified Rice, Actos, and DePuy Pinnacle Hip MDL bellwethers, resulting in over $11 Billion in total trial verdicts. In early November 2022, AWKO announced a lawsuit against L'Oréal and Softsheen-Carson, asserting that their hair relaxers cause uterine cancer. Jennifer currently serves as leadership on the case within the firm.
Hoekstra maintains memberships with the American Bar Association, the Lawyers Association, and Escambia-Santa Rosa County Bar Association. She currently serves as Co-Chair on the American Association for Justice’s Metal on Metal Hip Litigation and formerly served as President of the First Circuit Trial. Super Lawyers® also named Jennifer a “Top-Rated Class Action & Mass Torts Attorney” annually from 2016-2019.
Jennifer Hoekstra’s Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jhoekstra LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-hoekstra-aa77696/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/begoonia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenniferhoekstragupta/
Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz Social Media Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AWKOLaw/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justiceattys LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/awkolaw/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awkolaw/
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| 18 Apr 2023 | Talcum Powder Triumph: the Record-Breaking J&J Settlement with Mikal Watts | 00:22:41 | |
Mikal Watts, of Watts Guerra and talcpowderjustice.com, discusses his role in obtaining a proposed national settlement in the Johnson & Johnson (J&J) talcum powder case (MDL 2738), totaling $8.9B dollars. According to Watts, this is the largest products liability settlement ever realized after a bankruptcy filing, and is the culmination of over a decade of fighting for justice. This proposed settlement would resolve and satisfy the nationwide talc liability of J&J and the recently formed company, LTL Management LLC (LTL), by paying women with gynecologic cancers and mesothelioma a total of $12.08 billion over the next 25 years. The settlement will be presented as part of a Bankruptcy Restructuring Plan to be submitted by LTL for approval of Chief United States Bankruptcy Judge Michael B. Kaplan of the District of New Jersey. Under the proposed settlement, and only if confirmed by the Bankruptcy Court and approved by at least 75% of talc claimants, the settling defendants will fund $12.08 billion over 25 years into a “Talc Trust” to be created for the benefit of talc claimants. Existing eligible talc claimants who were diagnosed and hired a lawyer prior to April 1, 2023, alleging their use of J&J talc products caused gynecologic cancers or mesothelioma, will have their claims paid by the Talc Trust within one year of plan confirmation. Future talc claimants will be paid by the Trust via future payments that will be made over the next 25 years. Watts has led TalcPowderJustice.com, a coalescing force of plaintiffs, healthcare professionals, and attorneys that have fought for restitution for women harmed by talc for over a decade. It is a valuable resource for women with unified claims against J&J and the current claimants. Watts also spoke with Elisa D’Amico about his excitement about the upcoming conference Mass Torts Puerto Rico (https://www.masstortspuertorico.com). This second annual conference is hosted by the Trial Lawyers of Puerto Rico (https://www.triallawyersofpr.org), of which Watts is a founding member, and will be held on May 3-5, 2023.
SOURCES: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/attorney-mikal-watts-negotiates-proposed-settlement-in-johnson--johnson-talcum-powder-case-mdl-2738-national-settlement-of-8-9-billion-301790140.html and TalcPowderJustice.com
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| 08 Nov 2022 | Expert Legal Ethics Advice for a Virtual World with Jan Jacobowitz | 00:46:02 | |
Jan Jacobowitz serves as owner and founder of the ethics consulting group, Legal Ethics Advisor, and Director of the Professional Responsibility & Ethics Program (PREP) at the University of Miami’s School of Law (UM Law). Jan holds decades of experience teaching and practicing law, equipping her to advise on ethics and risk management in law, specifically with conflicts of interest, advertising, attorney fees, and alternative business strategies. She also offers special expertise on how technology and social media play into modern litigation. Jan began teaching at UM Law in 2007, co-developing and teaching a course called Mindful Ethics: Professional Responsibility for Lawyers in the Digital Age. Under her direction, the program received the 2012 Smythe Gambrell Award from the American Bar Association (ABA). Jan has co-authored two books–Mindfulness & Professional Responsibility: A Guide Book for Integrating Mindfulness into the Law School Curriculum in 2012, and Legal Ethics and Social Media: A Practitioner's Handbook published by the ABA in 2017. She also frequently publishes journal articles, her most notable piece title “Happy Birthday Siri! Dialing in Legal Ethics for Artificial Intelligence, Smart Phones, and Real Time Lawyers.” Before teaching at UM Law and founding her consulting service, Jan spent decades in private practice, specializing in commercial litigation. However she began her career at Legal Aid in Washington D.C., and later served in the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Special Investigations prosecuting Nazi war criminals. Jan maintains the title of Former President of the Association of Professional Responsibility Lawyers (APRL) and serves as co-chair of the APRL’s Future of Lawyering Committee (FOL). She also served as APRL’s 2019-2020 liaison to the ABA’s Center for Professional Responsibility Coordinating Counsel. Jan also received the American Bar Foundation’s 2018 Foundation Fellow and continues actively speaking on law ethics and social media across the country. Jan Jacobowitz, Legal Ethics Advisor, Social Media LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jan-l-jacobowitz-80805411/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/jan.jacobowitz Twitter - https://twitter.com/ethicsadvisor Legal Ethics Advisor Website - https://legalethicsadvisor.com/ Legal Ethics and Social Media: A Practitioner's Handbook - https://www.amazon.com/Legal-Ethics-Social-Media-Practitioners/dp/1634257820 Mindfulness and Professional Responsibility: A Guide Book for Integrating Mindfulness into the Law School Curriculum - https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/mindfulness-and-professional-responsibility-jan-l-jacobowitz/1134638167
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| 19 Sep 2023 | The Toxic Truth About Ethylene Oxide with Nevin Wisnoski | 00:27:42 | |
Welcome to this episode of LegalCast with Elisa D'Amico and Nevin Wisnoski. In this eye-opening conversation, they discuss the urgent issue of ethylene oxide exposure and its devastating effects on communities in the United States. Ethylene oxide, a known human carcinogen, has been used in medical device sterilization and food sterilization, posing significant health risks to those living in its proximity. Nevin Wisnoski, an expert in environmental torts, provides valuable insights into the history and consequences of ethylene oxide exposure. He sheds light on the alarming number of Americans living near ethylene oxide sterilization facilities, emphasizing the need for awareness and action. Learn about the potential health effects of ethylene oxide exposure, from various forms of cancer to reproductive issues. Nevin also discusses the legal actions being taken against the responsible parties and the importance of punitive damages in deterring future harm. Discover how communities in Memphis and Puerto Rico are affected, and find out what steps are being taken to address this environmental crisis. Nevin shares his perspective on the role of class actions and the pursuit of justice for those impacted. Join us for this informative and thought-provoking discussion on an issue that demands immediate attention. If you or someone you know has been affected by ethylene oxide exposure, this episode offers valuable insights into the legal aspects of seeking justice and accountability.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nevinwisnoski/
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| 19 Jul 2022 | Promoting Diversity in Mass Torts | 00:47:24 | |
Navan Ward serves as founder and lead attorney at Beasley Allen’s Atlanta office, specializing in defective medical devices litigation and pharmaceutical mass torts. Holding licensure across four states, Navan holds a Martindale Hubbell AV Preeminent Rating and has been recognized in the top 500 attorneys nationally by Lawdragon. Beasley Allen reports that with over 20 years litigating in multiple areas, Navan has obtained more than $360 million total for clients. A star mass torts litigator with decades of experience, Navan serves as Immediate Past President of the American Association for Justice (AAJ), only the second minority figure to hold the position. Navan has spent many years working with AAJ which first honored him with its 2017 Minority Caucus Stalwart Award. During his presidency, Navan worked on significant legislative and other issues affecting the plaintiff’s bar across the country. During this time he also aided in founding “Shades of Mass,” a group that advocates and facilitates the appointment of minorities to leadership roles in federal and state-based centralized civil actions, including federal MDLs, and currently serves on their Executive Committee. Navan also sits on the National Black Lawyers Top 100 Executive Committee, with past leadership experience in Alabama Lawyers Association, the Alabama State Bar’s Young Lawyers Section, and the Montgomery County Association for Justice. Navan Socials - Beasly Allen socials
Shades of Mass Conference Info American Association for Justice
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| 27 Dec 2022 | Making History with Jerry Ensminger | 00:58:50 | |
Jerry Ensminger served as a drill instructor in the U.S. Marine Corps for nearly 25 years. In 1983, Jerry’s six-year-old daughter, Janey, received a leukemia diagnosis. After over two grizzly years, including spinal taps and marrow transplants, Janey passed away at the age of nine. In 1997, Jerry learned the possible cause of his daughter's leukemia, in-utero exposure to contaminated drinking water on Camp Lejeune, a North Carolina Marine base which Jerry had been stationed on during his military career. Since 1997, Jerry has fought for governmental accountability and justice for those poisoned at Camp Lejeune. Jerry has emerged as the biggest leader in the fight for Lejeune victims. Jerry remains known for championing H.R.1742, Honoring America’s Veterans and Caring for Camp Lejeune Families Act–also referred to as the Janey Ensminger Act. The act legally established the connection between the contaminated drinking water of Lejeune and illnesses so military families can get the healthcare and support they need should they develop health conditions. President Obama invited Jerry and other Lejeune advocates to the White House when he signed the bill into law in 2012. Since then, Jerry has continued fighting for Lejeune survivors by supporting the 2022 PACT Act for soldiers and Marines developing illnesses after exposure to chemicals from burn pits while stationed in the Middle East and contaminated water while stationed on Camp Lejeune. Jerry Ensminger at 2012 H.R.1742 signing - https://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/blog/2012/08/06/president-obama-signs-honoring-americas-veterans-and-caring-camp-lejeune-families-ac
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| 28 Nov 2023 | LitFin and Mass Torts in ’24 ”Looking Great” with Ted Farrell | 00:35:25 | |
This LegalCast dives deep into the intricate world of litigation funding and the complexities within the legal landscape. Mark and Ted explore the various facets of funding, from plaintiff support to law firm loans and global settlements. They discuss the duty of law firms in monitoring client pipelines, the evolving nature of mass tort cases, and the potential impact of ABS structuring. The conversation also touches on the duration of MDLs, the upcoming ruling in Paraquat, and the need for constructive dialogue among funders, vendors, and legal entities. Overall, it's an insightful discussion shedding light on the inner workings and challenges within the legal funding ecosystem, offering a glimpse into the future of the litigation landscape. If you're curious about the complexities behind legal funding and the nuances within mass torts, this LegalCast is a must-watch.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ted-farrell-09202b1b/
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| 21 Mar 2023 | Let's Talk Opioids, PFAS, Social Media, & East Palestine Train Crash with Jayne Conroy | 00:38:54 | |
As a shareholder and leader at Simmons Hanly Conroy, Jayne Conroy oversees the practice’s Complex Litigation Department and personally specializes in Class Actions, Mass Torts, Medical Device Litigation, Pharmaceutical Litigation, Products Liability, and Sexual Abuse Litigation. She holds over 30 years of experience in law and has received regular appointments to serve as docket leadership for dozens of MDLs. Most recently, Jayne received an appointment to the Plaintiffs’ Steering Committee in the In re: Social Media Adolescent Addiction/Personal Injury Products Liability Litigation. She also continues serving on the Plaintiff’s Steering Committee in In re McKinsey & Co Inc National Prescription Opiate Consultant Litigation and co-lead counsel on the Ohio-based National Prescription Opiate MDL. During her time as Opioid leadership, she has secured a $26 billion global settlement with McKesson Corp., Cardinal Health Inc AmerisourceBergen Drug Corp., and Johnson & Johnson as part of the National Prescription Opiate MDL. Other major settlements include over $1.7 billion for plaintiffs of four J&J/DePuy Pinnacle bellwether trials; $650.5 million in abatement fees against CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart in Lake and Trumbull counties in Ohio for aiding the opioid epidemic; $60 million for a class of Haitian boys abused by a convicted pedophile; and $16 billion in a global settlement for owners of Volkswagens in the 2016 emissions scandal. Jayne also served as the President of The National Trial Lawyers’ 2022 Top 100 Trial Lawyers and regularly speaks at CLE events and conferences across the U.S.. According to her firm, “Jayne is instantly recognizable by her vintage couture style and can often be seen wearing beautifully constructed suits from the 1940s in the courtroom and around the New York office where she is based.”
Simmons Hanly Conroy - https://www.simmonsfirm.com/about-us/our-attorneys/jayne-conroy/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/simmons-hanly-conroy/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/simmonslawfirm Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Simmons.Law.Firm/
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| 07 Mar 2023 | The League: Uniting All Women in Legal with Melissa Lamore | 00:49:29 | |
Melissa Lamore serves as Co-founder and President of The League, an emerging network connecting women in the legal industry. She holds a decade of experience in sales and hospitality, owning and operating her own event services company since 2013. After Melissa’s 2022 battle with breast cancer, she now sits on The American Cancer Society board for ResearcHERS and participates in Community Outreach at Stanford University. The same year, Melissa founded The League of Women in Legal, or “The League,” to foster community among women in law after receiving huge support from the law community during her battle with cancer. She also received a BA in Political Science and History and a Masters in Education from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 2008.
Melissa Lamore Social Media LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-lamore-329355172/
The League - https://theleague.law/meet-the-board/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theleague.law/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y%3D Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-league-of-women-in-legal/about/
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| 20 Sep 2022 | Class Action Preservation, Federal Preemption, and the 40-Year Fight for Access to Justice with Paul Bland | 00:40:40 | |
Paul Bland currently serves as Executive Director of Public Justice, a non-profit litigation organization which works for social and economic justice for plaintiffs. Before earning the title of Executive Director in 2014, Paul served as an attorney on staff for Legal Justice since 1997. Paul has testified before both houses of Congress and in 2019 presented oral arguments to the Supreme court in Home Depot, U.S.A. v. Jackson, 139 S. Ct. 1743. According to Public Justice, “Paul has argued and won more than 30 cases which led to reported decisions for consumers, employees or whistleblowers in six of the U.S. Courts of Appeals and the high courts of nine different states.” Bland also boasts multiple legal accolades, including The Pound Institute’s 2017 Appellate Advocacy Award and the Litigation Counsel of America’s 2016 Justice Janie L. Shores Trailblazer Award, to name a few. Paul remains active in the legal community by speaking at multiple professional or educational law conferences across the nation. Before joining Public Justice, Paul served as Chief Nominations Counsel on the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee while also litigating consumer, toxic tort class actions, and qui tam suits in the private law sector. Home Depot, U.S.A. v. Jackson, 139 S. Ct. 1743 - https://www.supremecourt.gov/oral_arguments/audio/2018/17-1471 Students v. Ohio State University in 6th Circuit - https://www.opn.ca6.uscourts.gov/opinions.pdf/22a0214p-06.pdf Doe v. Fairfax County School Board - https://www.publicjustice.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Doe-v.-FCSB-Opinion-4th-Cir.-2021.pdf To learn more about Paul, please visit: https://www.publicjustice.net/team/f-paul-bland-jr/ To learn how you can support Public Justice, please visit: https://www.publicjustice.net/donate/ Paul Bland Social Media: Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-bland-2780494/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/FPBland
Public Justice Social Media Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/public-justice/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/Public_Justice Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/publicjustice
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| 02 Feb 2024 | Study Links Camp Lejeune Toxic Water to New Cancers with Hunter Shkolnik | 00:18:07 | |
In this LegalCast episode, Elisa D'Amico sits down with Hunter Shkolnik of Napoli Shkolnik to discuss the recently published government study on water contamination at Camp Lejeune. The study reveals alarming findings related to diseases and cancers associated with exposure to the contaminated water, impacting military families. Shkolnik emphasizes the significance of the report, highlighting the expansion of diseases covered, including male breast cancer. They examine the challenges faced by victims seeking compensation, particularly within the slow-moving elective option program. Shkolnik criticizes the arbitrary limitations imposed on eligibility, urging the government to align with the study's findings and update the compensation criteria. The conversation touches on the importance of legal representation for affected individuals, emphasizing the need to gather essential proof and medical records. Shkolnik provides insights into the shortcomings of the current legal process and urges the government to act promptly, considering the urgency of the situation. As the August deadline for filing claims approaches, Shkolnik encourages individuals to take swift action, stressing the limited time available for seeking compensation. The episode concludes with a call to attorneys and the public to raise awareness and advocate for the rights of those affected by the Camp Lejeune water contamination. Stay informed about the latest developments and join the conversation to support the victims and their families. Time is of the essence in ensuring justice and compensation for those who served their country at Camp Lejeune.
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| 04 Oct 2022 | The Righteous Endeavor for Justice and a $363M Verdict Against Sterigenics | 00:48:53 | |
Patrick A. Salvi II serves as Managing Partner at Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard, specializing in personal injury, medical malpractice and mass tort litigation. Since joining the firm in 2007, Salvi has secured dozens of multi-million dollar settlements for clients, a number of which in record-holding amounts. Best Lawyers named Patrick as 2022 “Lawyer of the Year” for Medical Malpractice in Chicago and received annual recognition on Lawdragon’s 500 Leading Lawyers in America list since 2017. Law Bulletin Media also honored Salvi’s work in 2019, recognizing him as a Leading Lawyer–an honor given to less than 5% of all licensed lawyers in Illinois. The American Association for Justice (AAJ) presented Patrick with the 2015 F. Scott Baldwin award, an award only given to the “most outstanding young trial lawyer” in America. Salvi currently serves as the 2022-2023 President of the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association while also sitting on the AAJ PAC Board of Trustees. Outside of the courtroom Patrick serves as a judge at ABA, AAJ, and Moot Court trial competitions. Salvi also serves as a board member of a local non-profit, Legal Aid Chicago, which provides pro-bono legal services to citizens under the poverty line. Media release on $363 million dollar Sterigenics win - https://www.salvilaw.com/press-release/sterigenics-verdict/?utm_source=email&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=5980-14A More coverage on Sterigenics case settlement: Chicago Tribune- https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/environment/ct-sterigenics-verdict-20220919-hlu7zoytabcdhe2nvuze7spmny-story.html CBS News - https://www.cbsnews.com/news/sterigenics-lawsuit-susan-kamuda-cancer-363-million/ Washington Post - https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/jury-awards-illinois-woman-363m-in-suit-over-plants-gas/2022/09/20/c693a752-3915-11ed-b8af-0a04e5dc3db6_story.html Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C. Website - https://www.salvilaw.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/SalviLaw Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/salvi-schostok-&-pritchard/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/SalviLaw More on Patrick Salvi II - https://www.salvilaw.com/attorneys/patrick-salvi-ii/ Remember to subscribe and follow us on social media… LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mass-tort-news | |||
| 12 May 2022 | Is Judicial Review On The Horizon? | 00:29:17 | |
John K. Rabiej served as the Deputy Director of the Bolch Judicial Institute for one year, and as the Director of the Duke Law Center for Judicial Studies for seven years. The Duke Law Center brings together judges, lawyers, researchers, government officials and other parties to advance the study and understanding of the judicial process and generate ideas for how it might be improved. During his time as the Director of the Duke Law Center, Mr. Rabiej studied the impact of technology on the judiciary, including analyzing his concerns that the courts are not keeping pace with the rapid advancement of technology in the culture at large. Prior to joining the Duke Law Center, Mr. Rabiej served as the Executive Director and Director of Judicial Outreach for The Sedona Conference; the Chief of the Rules Committee Support Office; and the American Law Institute. He presently sits on the Chief Justice’s Rules Advisory Commission, North Carolina (term ending December 31, 2023). In this episode of LegalCast, Mr. Rabiej discusses a legal bipartisan review of mass torts, class action, and the ever-expanding e-discovery quagmire that seems to be firmly embedded in complex litigation coming to a peak in 2022. Will the plaintiffs and defense leadership be able to collaborate to reign in the ever-expanding high cost of litigation? Mr. Rabiej has made a career of working to bring opposing groups together to discuss common interests as a means to increase efficiencies in litigations. And, with millions of dollars at stake, why not at least start the discussions. Remember to subscribe and follow us on social media… LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mass-tort-news | |||
| 20 Jun 2023 | Decoding the Dangers of Social Media: An Expert’s View with Dr. Mary Anne Franks | 00:53:42 | |
Join Dr. Mary Anne Franks as she unpacks the complexities of civil rights, technology, and online harm, shedding light on the urgent need for change in the digital landscape. Gain valuable insights into the legal and ethical dimensions of these issues and explore potential solutions for a safer and more responsible online world. Dr. Mary Anne Franks is a renowned legal scholar, expert, author, activist, media commentator, and law professor. She recently joined the George Washington University School of Law as the Eugene L. and Barbara A. Bernard Professor in Intellectual Property, Technology, and Civil Rights Law. Prior to that, she taught at the University of Miami School of Law as the Michael R. Klein Distinguished Scholar Chair. Dr. Franks teaches classes that delve into cutting-edge and feminist legal theories about First Amendment law, Second Amendment law, criminal law, criminal procedure, family law, and law, and technology. And her scholarly work focuses on online harassment, free speech, discrimination, and violence. She also serves as President and Legislative and Technology Policy Director of the Cyber Civil Rights Initiative (CCRI - www.cybercivilrights.org), a non-profit organization that works to combat online abuses that threaten civil rights and civil liberties. Its vision is a world in which law, policy, and technology align to ensure the protection of civil rights and civil liberties for all. CCRI turns 10 years old in August 2023. Dr. Franks’ work in advocating for legislative, technological, and social reform on the issue of nonconsensual pornography ("revenge porn") has been instrumental in drafting state legislation against the practice in the U.S. She has worked tirelessly on a federal criminal bill, first the Intimate Privacy Protection Act (IPPA), which evolved into the ENOUGH Act, and again into the SHIELD Act, which is still in the works. In May 2019, Dr. Franks published The Cult of the Constitution: Our Deadly Devotion to Guns and Free Speech (https://www.amazon.com/Cult-Constitution-Mary-Anne-Franks/dp/1503603229), which won a gold medal at the 2020 Independent Publisher Book Awards as well as the 2020 Association of American Publishers PROSE Award for Legal Studies and Excellence in Social Sciences. She is presently working on her second book, Fearless Speech. In this interview, Dr. Franks reflects on the progress made over the past decade in raising awareness about the non-consensual disclosure of intimate images, social media harms, and how to combat both the misconceptions and the grave consequences faced by those at the mercy of big tech and lobbyists (often the same). She opines on the various legal terminology as it’s developed, as well as the legal framework that has emerged in both tort law (products liability) and privacy law. The conversation also delves into the broader spectrum of online abuses, including social media addiction, mob mentality, stalking, sexual extortion (or “sextortion”), and defamation, to name a few. Dr. Franks explains how social media platforms amplify the scale and reach of bad online actors engaged in internet-based abuses, as well as the critical role of social media platforms in combating social media harms. At the center of much of the social media liability debate is Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act of 1996. The law includes two main provisions. The first provision, known as the "Good Samaritan" provision, grants immunity to platforms that take action in good faith to moderate or remove content that they consider objectionable or harmful. This provision encourages platforms to engage in content moderation without fear of legal repercussions. The second provision protects platforms from being treated as the publisher or speaker of the user-generated content. This means that even if a platform chooses not to moderate or remove certain content, it cannot be held liable for that content as if it had created or endorsed it. CDA 230 has been a subject of debate and controversy in recent years, as some argue that it allows platforms to evade responsibility for harmful content, while others maintain that it is crucial for enabling free expression and innovation on the internet. The law has faced calls for reform and revision to address issues such as online harassment, misinformation, and the spread of illegal content. According to Dr. Franks, at the core of this debate is the need to question whether the level of immunity Section 230 provides to internet intermediaries is justified. While she acknowledges the challenges faced by social media platforms in moderating an enormous volume of user-generated content, Dr. Franks suggests that platforms should in fact be held responsible based on their knowledge, intent, and contribution to harmful actions. There are, however, concerns about the lack of proactive measures implemented by social media platforms, as well as the lack of incentives for platforms to prioritize user safety. Dr. Franks underlines the necessity of holding platforms accountable and creating safer online environments, particularly for minors. She emphasizes the need to reevaluate current legislation and industry practices to align them with the collective responsibility of reducing harm and promoting user well-being. Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_Anne_Franks CCRI: www.cybercivilrights.org SSRN: https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/cf_dev/AbsByAuth.cfm?per_id=1224353 Book: The Cult of the Constitution https://www.amazon.com/Cult-Constitution-Mary-Anne-Franks/dp/1503603229 Twitter: https://twitter.com/ma_franks
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| 29 Aug 2023 | The J&J Talc Takedown: Insights from the Front Lines with Leigh O'Dell | 00:33:24 | |
Elisa D’Amico interviews attorney Leigh O'Dell about the ongoing talc lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson (J&J). The discussion focuses on J&J's attempt to use bankruptcy to avoid liabilities and its implications for the tort system. Leigh O'Dell explains how J&J's bankruptcy strategy aimed to separate liabilities and income, creating a "zombie corporation" to evade trial by jury. Clients impacted by talc-related health issues find encouragement in the dismissal of J&J's bankruptcy move, feeling empowered and unified in their pursuit of justice. The conversation underscores the potential harm to the tort system if such strategies succeed, altering the fairness of the system. The unity among plaintiff lawyers to counteract J&J's tactics is highlighted, emphasizing collective action's importance. Recent developments, including verdicts like the $18.8 million one in California, are discussed as significant steps toward accountability. The conversation also addresses J&J's aggressive tactics, like suing experts, which can discourage plaintiffs from pursuing rightful claims. Despite challenges, Leigh O'Dell underscores the importance of accountability and plaintiffs' perseverance for justice. The interview also touches on upcoming trials, the MDL process, and the continued fight for just resolutions. Throughout, Leigh O'Dell's dedication to her clients and justice remains evident as she navigates the legal battle against J&J.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/leigh-odell-5337bb4/
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| 18 Jan 2024 | Critical Deadline: Inside the 3M Combat Arms Earplug Settlement with Jennifer Hoekstra | 00:08:47 | |
Discover crucial insights into the 3M Combat Arms Earplug settlement process, upcoming deadlines, and the positive momentum in this groundbreaking case (MDL 2885). Jennifer Hoekstra of Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz sheds light on the accelerated timeline, attrition rates, and the immense cooperation received from claimants. With a mandatory deadline approaching on January 25th, 2024, for claimants to sign registration forms, this episode is your last chance to get informed! Over 200,000 claimants have already submitted paperwork, and the majority can expect payments in the next 18 to 24 months. Learn about the settlement's unprecedented response, the role of the court, and the implications for those considering opting out. Jennifer Hoekstra shares valuable advice and details about the settlement program's intricacies.
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| 14 Mar 2023 | Diversity in Leadership and Hair Relaxer Litigation with Diandra "Fu" Debrosse Zimmermann & LaRuby May | 00:51:04 | |
Hair relaxer docket leaders Diandra “Fu” Zimmermann and LaRuby May speak with Elisa D’Amico about their leadership roles in the litigation over cancer-causing hair relaxer products marketed to minority women and share some insights about diversity in leadership and in the law. Dicello Levitt Managing Partner Diandra “Fu” Debrosse Zimmermann serves as Co-Chair of the firm’s Mass Tort practice and regularly participates in the firm’s Public Client, Environmental, Personal Injury, Civil Rights, and Trial practice groups. Fu is an outstanding litigator who focuses on mass torts and class actions. She has won hundreds of millions of dollars for her clients, including in products liability and discrimination cases, and sexual assault lawsuits. Recently appointed Co-Lead Counsel of In re: Hair Relaxer Marketing Liability Litigation (MDL No. 3060), Fu is a true trailblazer, having previously been the first black woman to be appointed as Co-Lead Counsel in an MDL for In re: Abbott Laboratories, et al., Preterm Infant Nutrition Products Liability Litigation (MDL No. 3026).Among her many accolades, The National Law Journal recently recognized her as a Litigation Trailblazer and Lawdragon named her one of the 500 Leading Consumer Lawyers. LaRuby May is an inspirational lawyer who has been fighting for underserved clients for over 25 years. She is a Founding Partner of May Jung Law, a civil rights and social justice woman of color owned law firm, and currently serves on the Plaintiff’s Executive Committee (PEC) for the hair relaxer litigation (MDL No. 3060), having been appointed to leadership along with Fu and one of the most diverse leadership teams in history, including ten other attorneys of color. LaRuby also serves on the PEC for Paraquat representing clients suffering from Parkinson’s disease. LaRuby has represented clients injured by PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls), and currently represents clients injured by 3M earplugs and other catastrophic injuries. Her focus is on identifying and supporting plaintiffs from a grassroots level, specifically Black and Brown communities that are often disproportionately impacted and excluded from mass tort litigation.
Both Fu and LaRuby are Founding Members of Shades of Mass, a non-profit organization that aims to rectify the inequity in the appointment of attorneys of color to primary leadership roles and the overall diversity missing in mass tort and complex litigation case leadership.
Fu Social Media LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/diandra-fu-debrosse-zimmermann-4bb3956/
Dicello Levitt - https://dicellolevitt.com/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/dicellolevitt/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DiCelloLevitt Twitter - https://twitter.com/dicellolevitt
LaRuby May Social Media LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/laruby-may-349b1232/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/laruby.may Twitter - https://twitter.com/LaRubyMay
May Jung - https://mayjung.com/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/may-jung/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/mayjunglaw
Shades of Mass - https://www.shadesofmass.org/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/shades-of-mass/about/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/shadesofmass Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/shadesofmass
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