The first trial in a federal multidistrict litigation (MDL) involving Johnson & Johnson’s talcum powder is set to begin, with Ms. Judkins as the initial plaintiff. Over 65,000 women have filed lawsuits alleging that the company’s talcum powder led to ovarian cancer diagnoses. These cases have been consolidated in New Jersey federal court.
Ms. Judkins used Johnson’s Baby Powder for more than three decades, starting at age 15, and was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2016. The lawsuits claim that Johnson & Johnson knew its baby powder contained asbestos, a substance linked to cancer, but did not inform consumers. Instead, the company is accused of prioritizing its brand image.
A recently published book by journalist Gardiner Harris titled No More Tears: The Dark Secrets of Johnson & Johnson examines how the company managed information about risks related to its products, including baby powder.
Additional trials are scheduled for late 2025 in Los Angeles; January 2026 in New Jersey; two trials in Philadelphia in early 2026; and another trial in Georgia later that year. A mediator has been appointed to explore potential settlements between parties, though Johnson & Johnson maintains it is not ready for negotiations.
Beasley Allen law firm represents Ms. Judkins and has participated in similar cases across the country over the past ten years. According to Beasley Allen, “We are proud to be representing Ms. Judkins and helping lead the charge against J&J. Over the past decade, Beasley Allen lawyers have tirelessly tried these cases across the country, seeking justice for affected women.”
The firm also states: “Our relentless pursuit of justice has led to landmark verdicts, holding Johnson & Johnson accountable. Jury-awarded damages have totaled over $724 million, and these efforts have resulted in Johnson & Johnson ceasing the sale of its talc-based Baby Powder worldwide.”
“We are committed to continuing our fight in the courtroom to ensure that every affected woman receives the justice and compensation she rightfully deserves,” Beasley Allen said.
Johnson & Johnson ended global sales of its talc-based baby powder after numerous legal challenges and jury verdicts against it (https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/jj-stop-selling-talc-based-baby-powder-worldwide-2022-08-11/).