Over the past 30 years, there has been a sharp increase in product liability lawsuits. For manufacturers, suppliers and distributors the cost of such suits in time, money and reputation can be significant.
Manufacturers and others in the product supply line are often put at risk unnecessarily because key employees are unaware of applicable laws and the invasive discovery process that product litigation involves. Drawing from our nationwide courtroom experience, we help our clients avoid lawsuits through employee counseling and training on key topics such as product design, labeling, risk assessment, successor liability and risk containment and prevention.
Additional services provided by our Product Liability Group include all aspects of pre-trial, trial and, with the support of our Appellate Practice Group, appellate work in state and federal courts, including complex and multi-district litigation, acting as local and national coordinating counsel. We also are experienced in the intricacies of E-Discovery and manage solutions for the production of electronically stored information.
We have developed and coordinated a nationwide network of medical and scientific professionals who provide expert assistance and testimony in a wide area of specialties.
Our Group is composed of seasoned attorneys who are highly experienced in product safety and liability, toxic torts and insurance coverage. We have defended claims involving heavy machinery, automobiles, gasoline additives (MTBE), medical equipment, consumer electronics, sporting equipment, toys, food, chemical and industrial products and building materials (including asbestos, home appliances, gas valves and power tools).
Litigation Capabilities and Experience
- Nationwide litigation and coordination
- Retention and supervision of local counsel
- Development of expert witnesses
- Fact investigations
- Alternative dispute resolution (mediation and arbitration)
- Trials and appeals
Counseling and Lawsuit Avoidance
- Counseling on the drafting and negotiation of sales contracts, with emphasis on warranties, disclaimers and indemnifications
- Advice in drafting manuals, warnings and service bulletins
- Company audits to help clients evaluate their potential product liability exposure
Bleakley Platt is committed to our clients’ success and believes that in some instances, an alternative fee arrangement may be preferable to a traditional hourly fee structure. Such arrangements require approval by the Firm’s management. To learn more about the Firm’s policy regarding alternative fee arrangements, click here or speak with a partner.
