The number of people diagnosed with asbestos caused diseases in the U.S. continues to increase. Experts believe 60,000 mesothelioma deaths will occur between 2010 and 2030.

Work related injuries harm up to 14 million people annually, with harms including traumatic brain injuries, spinal injuries, amputations, burns, and electrocutions. Around 20,000 to 60,000 workers die each year from accidents, toxins, and violence at their jobs.

Millions of consumers and workers are injured each year because of defective products. Defects can occur when a product is designed poorly, when a product is manufactured in a manner that differs from the intended design, or when the product does not contain proper warnings or instructions. Defects can occur in automobiles, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, construction equipment, toys, and other goods.

Between 1.5 and 2 million elderly reside in nursing home facilities, with studies revealing that 44% have suffered some form of abuse. Many believe the actual number of residents suffering abuse is much higher. Neglect and abuse may result in serious emotional, physical, and financial harm

Paul & Hanley’s legal team has produced some of the most notable verdicts and highest settlements in the United States. Over 500 of our clients have each obtained in excess of 1 million dollars. Over 250 have recovered multi-million dollar recoveries.

Cookus Verdict

Jury Awards 4.3 million to Pipefitter in Lung Cancer and Asbestosis Case

A Los Angeles jury awarded $4,300,000 to Mr. Glade Cookus for his economic and noneconomic damages along with a finding for punitive damages.

Mr. Cookus was a pipefitter who installed water lines in and around Palos Verdes, California.  On a daily basis, Mr. Cookus, laid asbestos cement pipe, a process which required handling, cutting, milling and beveling such pipe.  Due to his exposure to asbestos in the pipes Mr. Cookus developed asbestosis and lung cancer.  Calaveras Asbestos Limited (CAL) was a supplier of asbestos to the pipe manufacturer.  The jury found Calaveras Asbestos Limited negligent for failing to warn of the dangers of asbestos.

Expert witnesses for Mr. Cookus included pathologist, Dr. Samuel Hammar, pathologist and pulmonologist Dr. Arnold Brody, medical state of the art expert, Richard Cohen, economist, Robert Johnson, materials specialist, John Templin and Dr. Robert Fallet.