Talcum Powder Cancer Settlement Talks Begin Sept. 4

Talcum Powder Cancer Settlement Talks Begin Sept. 4

Introduction

Representatives of Johnson & Johnson (J&J) and attorneys for tens of thousands of plaintiffs involved in talcum powder lawsuits are scheduled to meet in September 2025 in an effort to negotiate a global settlement. These discussions aim to resolve the long-running litigation without resorting to thousands of costly and time-consuming trials across the country.

Scope of the Talcum Powder Litigation

Currently, there are over 90,000 women nationwide pursuing claims that J&J’s Baby Powder and Shower-to-Shower products caused ovarian cancer. Plaintiffs allege that the company knowingly sold talcum powder that could be contaminated with asbestos, significantly increasing cancer risks. Furthermore, they claim J&J failed to warn consumers and even encouraged the use of the powder in the genital area, which contributed to these health risks.

Years of Delays and Failed Bankruptcy Attempts

This litigation has been ongoing for more than a decade, with J&J repeatedly attempting to delay trials. The company has tried multiple times to resolve the lawsuits through the U.S. bankruptcy courts, but each attempt has been rejected by federal judges. After J&J’s third bankruptcy plan was denied earlier this year, the focus has now shifted toward preparing bellwether trials and pursuing potential settlement options.

Settlement Mediation Ordered by the Court

To move the process forward, plaintiffs’ attorneys requested the appointment of a settlement mediator to facilitate negotiations. The Court approved this request on July 2, 2025, and scheduled the first mediation session for September 4, 2025, according to an order issued on July 28, 2025.

Although J&J has publicly stated that it intends to defend the claims at trial, the company did not oppose the mediation process. The goal is to explore the possibility of a global settlement to compensate victims, including many women who have died while waiting for the litigation to progress.

Ensuring Plaintiffs’ Voices Are Heard

Following concerns from several claimants, the Court recently issued another order requiring lawyers negotiating on behalf of all plaintiffs to consult with affected women before agreeing to any resolution. This ensures that every plaintiff has an opportunity to express their views on proposed settlement terms.

Next Steps: Bellwether Trials and Potential Remands

If the upcoming settlement talks fail, the Court plans to move forward with a series of bellwether trials. These test cases will help gauge how juries respond to the evidence and arguments presented, providing insight for both sides. While the outcome of these trials will not be binding on other claims, they will influence future negotiations. If no resolution is reached after bellwether trials, the Court may remand thousands of cases back to federal courts nationwide for individual trials.