Manufacturers and distributors face enormous risks from product liability suits.  In many states, punitive damages are awarded in staggering amounts and cannot be insured against.  These risks must be carefully managed and products defended with experienced counsel.  The attorneys on our Litigation team have expertise helping clients prevent product liability problems and defending claims.

Prevention – we work to establish or enhance programs to prevent product liability problems, including: analyzing the risks posed by new products; assisting with preparation of product manuals, instructions and warnings; and training company personnel to spot and minimize serious risks.  We develop an understanding of how product safety issues fit within the sales, engineering, quality control and service sectors of a client’s operations, then we tailor the preventive program appropriately.  Additionally, we assist clients in conforming to regulatory requirements.

Defending claims – when a manufacturer gets sued, an aggressive and creative defense can limit the exposure and the cost of the suit.  A close partnership between our legal team and our client – including input from engineers, quality control and management – is the key to success.  By working together to review all legal, factual, technical and business issues, we can prepare an effective defense.  We have tried product liability cases across the U.S., drawing on local counsel when necessary.  Our satisfaction comes from working with our clients to achieve positive outcomes for the company, its people and its bottom line.