SO GOOD, IT’S WORTH REPEATING. For the third time in just five months, 3M secured a defense verdict - this time, before the Honorable Kimberly Childers in Salyersville, Kentucky. After approximately 2.5 hours of deliberation, a jury consisting of 7 women and 5 men found that there was no defect in the 3M 8710 respirators that Plaintiff Gregory Dwayne Miller claimed to use throughout his career as a coal miner.
Our courtroom trial team consisted of Angela Brandt, Brad Bultman, Will Manuel, and Michael Brooks (embedded appellate counsel). William Book picked the jury with the assistance of Dr. Jill Liebold (Expert Services). They were ably assisted leading up to trial and “behind the scenes” during trial by attorneys Dan Adams, Rob Akers, Mike Bender, Byron Miller, Annika Petty, Bryant Spann, and Trisha Volpe. Paralegals Theresa Boquist and Matt Hendricks contributed greatly to the trial effort. Matt Hendricks coordinated our housing, meals and transportation and served as our “runner,” as well. Jody Blair (trial tech) of Expert Services, delivered a clean and clear visual presentation in the courtroom. LCI provided set-up services and are “tearing it down” as I write this report. 3M Mass Tort Leader Kate Warner was on hand throughout to provide leadership and make key strategic decisions. I was lucky enough to return from a much needed vacation to be with the team for the final days of trial.
Special thanks to Simon Bailey, Stephen Fritz, Margaret Cupples, Tim Rodriguez, and the rest of the Bradley writers, who provided writing support throughout.
Plaintiff’s case was presented in just under two weeks. Plaintiff put on ten witnesses before resting last Wednesday. In its defense, 3M presented the following witnesses: Dr. James Lamberti (medical expert), Erik Johnson (3M CIH), and Dr. Phillip Eitzman (3M corporate scientist). Each 3M expert was subjected to aggressive attacks from opposing counsel, yet maintained their credibility, sincerity, and
likeability. During closing statements, plaintiff asked the jury for $25M in compensatory damages and an additional $50M in punitive damages.
A HUGE thanks to all who took part and/or supported us. Once again, this extraordinary team brought home the win—a result worth repeating, again and again and again.
Co-Founder/Chairman of the Board of Case Status & Founder of Rising Tide Law
3yVery well said, Thanks for sharing!!