Roundup is one of the most widely used herbicides in the world, and it’s also one of the most controversial. In recent years, lawsuits against Monsanto, the manufacturer of the popular herbicide Roundup, have been on the rise.
The product, which contains the active ingredient glyphosate, has faced extensive scrutiny for its alleged link to cancer, particularly non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. As a result, thousands of individuals have filed Roundup lawsuits in pursuit of justice and compensation for their suffering.
If you’re one of the many individuals considering or already involved in a Roundup lawsuit, you might wonder about the success chances. This guide aims to offer valuable insights and strategies to increase your odds of achieving a favorable outcome in your Roundup lawsuit.
Understanding Roundup and Its Risks
Roundup is a weed killer that was first introduced in 1974. It’s one of the most popular products on the market today, with over a billion dollars in sales each year. The active ingredient in Roundup is glyphosate, which has been linked to cancer in several studies and court cases.
However, it is still a compound whose demand is likely increasing day by day due to the demand for high-value crops. Glyphosate had a market size of $9.3 billion in 2020. Till 2031, the demand is expected to escalate at a CAGR of 6%.
The product can be used anywhere from home lawns to large agricultural fields. It’s effective at killing unwanted plants by targeting their roots so they die off above ground instead of growing back from underground roots. When used in small quantities, this should pose little risk for humans or animals who come into contact with it.
However, there are still chances that you might get sick after coming in contact with it. If that happens, it is advised to contact a doctor immediately. If the diagnosis shows you have cancer, and if you feel it is because of Roundup exposure, you can file a lawsuit against Monsanto.
Assessing Your Eligibility to File a Lawsuit
If you are considering filing a Roundup lawsuit, you must understand the specific requirements for eligibility. The following criteria must be met:
- Exposure to Roundup: To be eligible to file a Roundup lawsuit, you typically need to show that you were exposed to Roundup. This exposure could be due to work, personal use, or living near areas where Roundup was commonly used.
- Cancer diagnosis: You must have been diagnosed with cancer, especially non-Hodgkin lymphoma, after using Roundup. It refers to certain types of blood cancers such as Burkitt lymphoma, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), follicular lymphoma (FL), etc. In a recent series of events, more than 800 Australians alleged that their diagnosis of non-Hodgkin lymphoma was linked to the herbicide Roundup.
- Medical evidence: It’s important to have medical evidence that links your illness to Roundup exposure. This may include medical records, doctor’s opinions, and other relevant documents.
- Jurisdiction: The jurisdiction in which you file the lawsuit matters. Some states may be more plaintiff-friendly in Roundup cases than others. So, consult with an attorney to determine the best location for your case.
Finding the Right Legal Representation
Finding the best lawyer for a Roundup lawsuit is crucial to your success. You want a lawyer who is experienced with Roundup lawsuits and has handled similar cases in the past. If you are not sure how to find such a lawyer, here are some things you should look for:
- Identify law firms: Start by identifying law firms that specialize in handling cases related to Roundup and similar product liability claims. You can do this through online searches, legal directories, or by asking for recommendations from trusted sources.
- Research attorneys and law firms: Once you have a list of potential law firms, research the attorneys and firms you’re considering. Look at their websites, read reviews, and consider their experience in handling cases related to Roundup.
- Experience: Find out if the attorneys or law firms have experience with similar cases. You’ll want a legal team with a proven track record in product liability cases and an understanding of the specific Roundup-related issues.
- Interview attorneys: Contact the attorneys or law firms on your list to schedule consultations. When interviewing, ask relevant questions to gauge their expertise, commitment, and fit for your specific case. Some questions to consider:
- How many Roundup cases have they handled?
- What was the outcome of these cases?
- How will they evaluate your case’s merit?
- What is their approach to handling cases like yours?
- What fees and costs are involved?
- Assess communication: Pay attention to how well the attorney communicates with you during the interview. Effective communication is crucial for understanding your case’s progress and your legal options.
- Check credentials: Verify the attorney’s credentials, such as their education, bar association membership, and any special certifications in product liability law.
- References: Ask for references from past clients who had similar cases. This can provide valuable insights into the attorney’s performance and client satisfaction.
- Fees and costs: Discuss the attorney’s fees, payment structure, and any potential expenses that may arise during the case. Some attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win the case.
- Local jurisdiction: Ensure the law firm is licensed to practice in your jurisdiction, as laws and regulations may vary from one place to another.
- Trust your instincts: Ultimately, trust your instincts about the attorney and the law firm. You should feel comfortable and confident in their abilities and commitment to your case.
- Compare and make a decision: After meeting with multiple attorneys, compare your options and choose the one that you believe is best suited to handle your case.
Navigating the Legal Process
If you are involved in a Roundup lawsuit, there are some things that you can expect to happen. First and foremost, it’s important to know that the legal process can be lengthy. It may take years before your case is resolved by trial or settlement.
For the people affected and those who have filed lawsuits, it may take 2-3 years to receive a settlement. After the documentation process, some plaintiffs may receive the check within a few months, while others may have to wait a year.
Understanding Compensation and Damages
The settlement amount can vary largely. According to TorHoerman Law, the estimated average settlement amounts can range between $5,000 and $250,000. However, this can be different for each case based on the severity, medical expenses, lost wages, longevity of the injury, etc. You must consult with your lawyer to find out how much you can expect from your lawsuit.
Reports show that Monsanto has already settled over 100,000 lawsuits, paying around $11 billion as of May 2022. However, more than 30,000 lawsuits are still pending.
Conclusion
We hope this article has given you a better understanding of the Roundup lawsuit and its implications. We also hope that it’s inspired you to take action if you believe that your health has been impacted by this product.
Pursuing a Roundup lawsuit can be a challenging journey, but with the right guidance, you can increase your odds of success. Consult with a skilled attorney, gather strong evidence, and choose the right legal strategy throughout the process.