Create a free Manufacturing.net account to continue

Tobacco Mass Litigation Trial Wrapping Up In W.Va.

A mass litigation trial against the nation's largest tobacco manufacturers is wrapping up in Charleston. The cases were filed on behalf of about 700 plaintiffs against Philip Morris, R.J. Reynolds, American Tobacco Co., Brown and Williamson and Lorillard. The plaintiffs claim they were harmed by tobacco use.

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) -- A mass litigation trial against the nation's largest tobacco manufacturers is wrapping up in Charleston.

The cases were filed on behalf of about 700 plaintiffs against Philip Morris, R.J. Reynolds, American Tobacco Co., Brown and Williamson and Lorillard. The plaintiffs claim they were harmed by tobacco use.

Media outlets report that jurors heard closing arguments on Tuesday.

Senior Status Judge Arthur Recht is presiding over the trial.

If the companies are found liable, the cases would be broken down into smaller groups. Different juries in future trials would determine whether damages should be awarded.

More in Operations