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Roundup Lawyer for Cancer Lawsuit - Understanding Your Rights and Legal Options for Seeking Compensation

Over recent years, thousands of individuals diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma have come forward with claims in Roundup cancer lawsuits linking Monsanto’s Roundup weedkiller to cancer. Cancer treatment is a physically and emotionally grueling process that can leave affected individuals with insurmountable medical bills.

Residents in Virginia may be entitled to pursue compensation if they’ve suffered from health conditions believed to be caused by Roundup exposure. As Roundup injury lawyers, we stand ready to support those harmed by exposure to Roundup.  We offer free consultations and contingency fee representation, and we advance all litigation costs to ensure accessible justice for all.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer that you believe was caused by the use of Roundup, we urge you to contact us as soon as possible for a free consultation and case evaluation.  As Roundup injury lawyers, we can help. Because of the applicable statute of limitations, there is only a limited time to file a claim for injuries.

What is Roundup and What Is It Used For?

The weedkiller Roundup is a widely used herbicide developed by Monsanto, which was later acquired by Bayer AG in 2018. The active ingredient in Roundup weedkiller, glyphosate, was first introduced in 1973 and has since become a staple in both commercial and residential applications. This herbicide is extensively applied in agricultural settings, including on grains, nuts, fruits, and vegetable crops. Homeowners and landscapers also use Roundup to control weeds and grass in their gardens and lawns.

The U.S. patent for glyphosate expired in 2000, which has led to its inclusion in a variety of other products on the market.

What is the Roundup Product Liability Lawsuit?

Product liability law holds manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, and retailers responsible when they produce or sell a defective product that causes harm to consumers.  When there are a large number of plaintiffs that have been harmed by a single cause (such as the exposure to Roundup), the cases of individuals can be consolidated into one product liability case instead of having hundreds or thousands of lawsuits that cover the same type of claim.

Previous Roundup Lawsuits and Notable Settlements

The Roundup litigation history includes an extensive legal battle involving thousands of claims from individuals who allege that Roundup caused cancer. The lawsuits generally argue that Monsanto, knowingly withheld information about the potential dangers of glyphosate. These cases have resulted in several high-profile settlements and jury verdicts, some reaching into the hundreds of millions.

Major Verdicts in Roundup Cases

  • Johnson v. Monsanto: In 2018, a California jury awarded Dewayne Johnson, a former school groundskeeper, $289 million after he alleged that Roundup use led to his diagnosis of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Johnson’s case was the first to go to trial, and the jury found Monsanto liable for failing to warn about the herbicide’s potential cancer risk. Although the award was later reduced, the case set a significant precedent and encouraged many others to come forward.
  • Hardeman v. Monsanto: In 2019, a jury awarded Edwin Hardeman $80 million after finding that his use of Roundup caused his non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Hardeman’s case was notable as it was the first federal lawsuit to go to trial in the Roundup multidistrict litigation (MDL), which consolidated thousands of similar cases. This verdict underscored Monsanto’s liability and raised further awareness of glyphosate’s potential risks.
  • Pilliod v. Monsanto: In 2019, a California jury awarded Alva and Alberta Pilliod, a couple who both developed non-Hodgkin lymphoma after using Roundup, a staggering $2 billion in punitive damages (later reduced to $87 million). This case reflects the jury’s belief that Monsanto acted with “malice” by ignoring potential risks associated with Roundup and reinforced the notion of corporate accountability.

These landmark cases collectively fueled the legal momentum against Monsanto, establishing a pattern of substantial verdicts in favor of plaintiffs and prompting Bayer to address the growing volume of Roundup claims.

Bayer’s $10 Billion Settlement Fund

In response to mounting litigation, Bayer agreed in 2020 to allocate over $10 billion to settle existing Roundup claims and set aside additional funds for potential future claims. This settlement aimed to resolve nearly 100,000 lawsuits, though Bayer did not admit liability. The settlement allows individuals who suffered cancer following Roundup exposure to receive compensation without going through prolonged litigation.

Why Previous Settlements Matter for Virginia Residents

The outcomes of these high-profile cases have helped shape the legal landscape, making it easier for those affected by Roundup to pursue compensation. If you’re considering filing a Virginia Roundup herbicide lawsuit, these prior cases reinforce the viability of your claim. They also provide a precedent that courts are taking these matters seriously and holding Monsanto and Bayer accountable for alleged harm.

If you or a loved one in Virginia has developed non-Hodgkin lymphoma or another cancer following exposure to Roundup, you may qualify for a settlement. Contact The Law Offices of Mark T. Hurt today to discuss your case and learn about the opportunities available for seeking damages for your injuries.

How are the Roundup Lawsuits Product Liability Cases?

Product liability in Roundup lawsuits generally falls into two main categories: design defects and manufacturing defects.

  • Design Defects: A design defect means that a product is inherently dangerous or faulty due to the way it was designed, even if it was manufactured correctly. In the Roundup case, plaintiffs argue that the very formulation of Roundup—particularly the inclusion of glyphosate—presents inherent risks that could lead to cancer.
  • Manufacturing Defects: A manufacturing defect occurs when a product deviates from its intended design during production, causing it to be unsafe. While manufacturing defects are less common in Roundup lawsuits—since the cases largely focus on the danger of the chemical makeup of the product—some plaintiffs have claimed that specific batches of Roundup may have been inconsistently manufactured, potentially increasing toxicity.

Although manufacturing defects aren’t a primary focus in most Roundup lawsuits, they still play a role in product liability law and may be a relevant factor in cases where contamination or variation in production contributed to a user’s injury.

What Types of Cancer Are Linked to Roundup Exposure?

Research has increasingly shown that exposure to Roundup’s main ingredient, glyphosate, may be linked to a higher risk of developing certain types of cancer. Notably, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and B-cell lymphoma have been associated with glyphosate exposure. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified glyphosate as a “probable human carcinogen,” indicating that studies suggest it may cause cancer. Similarly, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has found glyphosate to be “probably carcinogenic to humans.” Beyond cancer, other health concerns linked to Roundup use include immunological disorders, endocrine disruption, and genetic alterations.

Numerous studies have delved into the connection between glyphosate and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. A notable 2019 meta-analysis published in the journal Mutation Research found that exposure to glyphosate increased the risk of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma by 41%. Similarly, a study in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute highlighted a higher incidence of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma among agricultural workers exposed to glyphosate. These findings underscore the potential dangers of glyphosate, reinforcing the claims made in Roundup cancer lawsuits.

Did Monsanto Know About Roundup’s Health Risks?

Internal documents obtained through litigation have revealed that Monsanto was aware of the potential health risks of glyphosate as early as the 1980s. Despite this knowledge, the company continued to market Roundup as a safe and effective weed killer. The consumer warnings provided were also insufficient, failing to adequately inform users of the potential risks associated with glyphosate exposure. This lack of transparency has been a critical issue in Roundup cancer lawsuits.

What Needs to be Done to File a Roundup Cancer Lawsuit?

Filing a successful Roundup cancer lawsuit requires gathering and presenting substantial evidence to support a claim. The following types of evidence are typically necessary:

Medical Records and Diagnosis

To build a strong case, you will need comprehensive medical records that document your diagnosis and treatment. This includes:

  • A confirmed diagnosis of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma or another type of cancer linked to Roundup exposure.
  • Detailed medical records that outline your cancer diagnosis, treatment plans, and prognosis.
  • Test results, such as biopsy reports, imaging studies, and laboratory tests, that confirm your cancer diagnosis and provide insight into the severity and progression of your condition.

Proof of Exposure to Roundup or Glyphosate

Demonstrating your exposure to Roundup or glyphosate is crucial for your lawsuit. Essential evidence includes:

  • Records of Roundup or glyphosate use, such as receipts, invoices, or purchase orders, which can establish a history of exposure.
  • Documentation of your occupation, work history, or activities that involved the use of Roundup or glyphosate. This could include employment records, job descriptions, or affidavits from employers.
  • Testimony from coworkers, family members, or friends who can confirm your exposure to Roundup or glyphosate. These statements can provide additional context and support your claims of regular contact with the herbicide.

Filing a Virginia Roundup Cancer Lawsuit

The process of filing a Roundup lawsuit can be daunting, especially for those dealing with health issues. As a Roundup injury law firm, we are dedicated to simplifying this process and fighting for compensation on your behalf. Based on evidence, our experienced Roundup lawsuit attorneys will build a case demonstrating the causal link between Roundup exposure and your diagnosis. Key steps in filing a Roundup lawsuit may include:

  • Establishing Exposure: We’ll work with you to document your exposure to Roundup. This may involve records of its use at home or work, as well as medical documentation of resulting health conditions.
  • Building a Legal Argument: Our roundup injury lawyers will build a case demonstrating the causal link between Roundup use and your diagnosis. Scientific studies, expert testimony, and Monsanto’s internal documents may support your claim.
  • Securing Compensation: Our goal is to seek maximum compensation for medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. We advance all litigation costs, ensuring you face no out-of-pocket expenses while your case is ongoing.

Contacting a Roundup Injury Lawyer and Initial Consultation

The first step in pursuing a Roundup lawsuit is to contact a Roundup attorney who handles lawsuits against the manufacturer. Here’s what to expect:

  • Reach Out to a Roundup Lawyer to Schedule a Free Consultation and to Learn About Your Case: We provide a free consultation and case evaluation, and can answer any questions that you might have.
  • Bring Detailed Information About Your Cancer Diagnosis: During this consultation, you will discuss your case with a Roundup injury lawyer. Be prepared to provide detailed information about your cancer diagnosis, Roundup exposure, and any relevant medical records or documentation.
  • Case Evaluation: The attorney will evaluate the merits of your case, considering factors such as the strength of your evidence and the potential for a successful outcome.

What are the Roundup Lawsuit Statute of Limitations and Deadlines?

The statute of limitations for filing a Roundup lawsuit varies by state, typically ranging from 1 to 3 years after your cancer diagnosis, the death of a loved one, or the date you discovered the connection between Roundup use and your illness. Virginia’s statute of limitations for product liability cases is two years, which will generally start to run when a person first suspects that their cancer may have been caused by exposure to Roundup. If a lawsuit has not been filed on your behalf prior to the expiration of the statute of limitations, you will no longer be able to file a Roundup cancer claim without proving that an exception applies.

Therefore, it is crucial to act promptly to avoid missing the filing deadline. If you need a Roundup lawyer to discuss your case and determine the best course of action, you can call The Law Offices of Mark T. Hurt to schedule a free consultation.

Who Qualifies for a Roundup Lawsuit?

Those who have developed certain types of cancer, including non-Hodgkin lymphoma, after exposure to Roundup weed killer may be eligible to file a Roundup lawsuit. Other qualifying criteria may include direct or indirect exposure to Roundup and a diagnosis of one of the listed cancers.

What Compensation is Possible in a Virginia Roundup Lawsuit?

Compensation in a Roundup lawsuit may cover a range of financial and emotional losses, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Compensation is often addressed through a Roundup settlement. These settlements can vary widely based on factors such as the severity of illnesses, type of exposure, and the overall number of claims.

  • Medical Bills: Cancer treatments can be expensive, and a successful lawsuit could help cover past and future medical expenses.
  • Lost Wages: If your illness prevented you from working, you may be entitled to recoup lost income.
  • Pain and Suffering: We also seek compensation for the emotional and physical pain caused by your illness.

How Much Can I Get in a Roundup Lawsuit Settlement?

The average settlement payouts for Roundup lawsuits in the initial settlement ranged between $100,000 to $160,000. However, Roundup attorneys anticipate higher average payouts in the second round of settlements following significant verdicts in 2023 and 2024. The average payout for a Roundup lawsuit is expected to surpass the original Monsanto settlements, which were part of a $10 billion deal.

While there is a considerable range around the average figure, some settlements could be significantly higher or lower depending upon the harm and injury sustained. The settlements noted above are for informational purposes only, and we cannot guaranty that any client will receive any settlement.

To learn more about how we can help, please contact us for a free consultation and case evaluation.

 

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