Missouri Supreme Court Ruling Could Affect J&J Talc Cases

A recent Missouri Supreme Court ruling could affect the future of talc lawsuits against Johnson & Johnson.

What was the ruling?

A ruling on February 13th by the court regarding a talc case in which a non-Missouri resident was a part of, was considered to be in violation of Missouri state law in regards to joinder, which is combining two or more cases to allow courts to hear cases that they may not have been able to previously according to a Reuters article discussing the ruling.

What does this mean for future Johnson & Johnson talc cases?

If the ruling denies the opportunity for non-Missouri residents to file a lawsuit in Missouri against Johnson & Johnson, it could potentially give the company an edge in defending cases in smaller courts or in other states where courts are less inclined to rule in favor of the plaintiff.

What are attorneys saying about the ruling?

Some attorneys have responded to the ruling, saying the defense should hold their celebrations if they are not well aware of Missouri case law. Eric Holland who is a plaintiff’s attorney working on talc cases in St. Louis mentioned that a 2016 Missouri Supreme Court ruling that considered another case in which a non-Missouri resident was involved was in violation of joinder, however, stated that it did not make the trial unjust for the defendants in the case.

I have been injured by a Johnson & Johnson talc product. What are my options?

If you or a loved one have been injured by the use of Johnson & Johnson talc products contact our office at  to schedule a free consultation and speak with one of our experienced attorneys. Please also visit our practice area page on talcum powder and ovarian cancer here as well as our other recent blog post on talcum products here for more information.