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October 10th, 2023We are one step closer to a potential Covidien hernia mesh settlement. Hundreds allege they suffered unexpected pain and complications after receiving defective polypropylene mesh products. With over 600 Covidien hernia mesh lawsuits filed and more on the way, the first Covidien hernia mesh trials could be on the calendar for 2025. U.S. District Judge Patti B. Saris recently approved a proposal from plaintiffs to prepare claims for bellwether trials. Bellwether trials are important because they give us an idea of how similar cases might fare in court and can guide both sides in the litigation process toward a settlement.
It’s important to realize that Covidien is not the only manufacturer of hernia mesh products under scrutiny. Several other manufacturers’ products also face lawsuits for endangering patients. Atrium, Bard, Ethicon, and Gore, all join Covidien in hernia mesh litigation. Like other hernia mesh devices, individuals report severe health complications associated with Covidien Parietex, Covidien Symbotex, and others. Design flaws within specific polypropylene mesh products utilized in their surgeries have allegedly caused patients to suffer infections, chronic pain, internal bleeding, and more.
Cases have been sent to one court to manage the high volume of Covidien hernia mesh lawsuits efficiently and fairly. U.S. District Judge Patti B. Saris oversees this consolidation, known as multidistrict litigation (MDL).
Pivotal bellwether trials for Covidien hernia mesh litigation could soon be on the horizon. These trials test the waters to figure out how juries might respond to the evidence and testimony.
Recently, Judge Saris issued a comprehensive order tasking plaintiffs and defendants with choosing specific deadlines and procedures for the selection and preparation of these bellwether cases. Plaintiffs and defendants submitted competing orders, but the plaintiffs emerged victorious.
Out of the six handpicked cases slated for bellwether trials, plaintiffs proposed focusing on preparing only two for the initial round. The plaintiffs have concerns that trying to tackle all six cases at once could be overwhelming for the court. Meanwhile, the defendants wanted all six cases prepared for trial at once.
By concentrating on just two cases initially, the plaintiffs aim to streamline the process. This way, they can thoroughly examine these cases without overloading the court’s resources.
Judge Saris sided with the plaintiffs and issued a case management order with a schedule for Covidien hernia mesh lawsuits.
By September 15, 2024, both sides must pick one plaintiff from a group of cases called the “Bellwether Discovery Pool.” These two chosen cases will be the first ones to go to trial. Then, on October 14, 2024, there’s a deadline for filing certain motions that can potentially end the case or challenge the evidence. By November 22, 2024, the parties must respond to those motions. Finally, in January 2025, the court will decide the order for the other Covidien hernia mesh trials.
As we get closer to selecting Covidien hernia mesh trials, remember that the journey to justice is ongoing. Therefore, The Lake Law Firm stands with individuals impacted by faulty hernia mesh devices in pursuing the compensation they deserve.
Have you or a loved one suffered injury after receiving a defective hernia mesh? You may qualify for significant compensation through a hernia mesh lawsuit. Call (888) 525-3529 today to speak with our team to learn if you can file a potential claim.
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