Slinging silicon: plaintiffs must now prove causation in second phase of implant class action against Dow Chemical

Article Abstract:

Dow Chemical is defending itself in a class-action suit over Dow Corning's silicon breast implants. Dow Chemical has been dismissed from similar suits because it did not make the product and some are worried about the precedent of holding it responsible. The first class-action suit has reached the jury and, beginning on Oct. 20, 1997, the plaintiffs will have to prove that the implants caused the autoimmune diseases. Dow Chemical contends that research denies the claim that ruptured implants are responsible for connected-tissue and autoimmune diseases.

Dow Chemical Co. (Midland, Michigan), DOW

---

Implant global settlement in jeopardy: judge says agreement underfunded; Dow Corning files for bankruptcy

Article Abstract:

Dow Corning's declaration of bankruptcy may force women back into the global settlement pool but also delay payouts from the settlement fund, which a judge now says is underfunded. Many more women joined the class action than initially expected, so the $4.25 billion fund, intended to pay $105,000 to $1.4 million depending on the injury, may cover only 16% or as little as 5% of that amount. Dow Corning's bankruptcy, apparently sought for legal rather than financial reasons, will stay independent lawsuits that often cost more.

Finance, Dow Corning Corp.

---

Lawyers advise implant clients to reject offer

Article Abstract:

Recent developments regarding research on breast implants and illness have led lawyers nationwide to advise heir clients against accepting the latest settlement offer. Some documents and depositions suggest improper links between implant maker Dow Chemical and the hospital that sponsored a Harvard study that found no connection between implants and claimed ailments. The documents may also bolster efforts to hold Dow Corning's 50% owner, Dow Chemical, financially responsible. Dow Corning has declared bankruptcy.

Analysis, Compromise and settlement, Settlements (Law), states

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: Sen. Metzenbaum fights Milberg Weiss; friend of plaintiffs' lawyers turns foe in questioning firm's class action fees
• Abstracts: Bargaining and enterprise flexibility agreements. The fundamental transformation of employee relations in Victoria
• Abstracts: Financial services, products, risks and regulation in Europe after the EU 1998 Action Plan and Basle II
• Abstracts: Full stop for fraud suits in states? Needed or not, bill likely to pre-empt state class actions. The arbitration question: why no punitive awards? The high court hears arguments over whether a federal act pre-empts a N.Y. statute limiting arbitrators' powers
• Abstracts: Critics: firm has a conflict; it represent two Dows in breast implant litigation. A 'nightmare' for Dow? Plaintiff's lawyers assert implant maker didn't fully assess bankruptcy move

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.