HPY Wins Summary Judgment for Four Product Manufacturers in Asbestos Suit

February 1, 2019 – Press Release

February 1, 2019 (Dalton, GA) – Hawkins Parnell & Young obtained a victory for four product manufacturers on claims involving asbestos exposure. Hawkins Parnell secured affirmative summary judgment for a gasket manufacturer, a boiler manufacturer, and two valve manufacturers.

Plaintiffs, a husband and wife, sued numerous product manufacturers in Whitfield County Superior Court, Georgia, alleging the husband’s use of asbestos-containing products caused his mesothelioma. Plaintiffs asserted causes of action for negligence and loss of consortium, and they sought punitive damages.

Several teams at Hawkins Parnell moved for summary judgment, pointing to the lack of evidence sufficient to show a connection between Plaintiffs' damages and any product Hawkins Parnell’s clients manufactured. After briefing and oral argument, the Honorable Jim E. Wilbanks granted complete summary judgment for three of Hawkins Parnell's clients and partial summary judgment for one.

Partner Frank Bedinger led the team that represented the remaining valve manufacturer, and he also argued the motion for summary judgment.