Author Archives: Karen Olson

Confusion Amongst Consumers After False Advertising

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Deceptive Advertisement Expert Witnesses

When should you consult with a deceptive advertising expert? Deceptive advertising and false advertising expert witnesses evaluate the use of confusing, misleading, or untrue claims made by manufacturers in the promotion of their products. These experts are well informed on state and federal laws protecting consumers from deceptive product claims, especially those that could be harmful to consumers.  In a recent case, the plaintiff alleged that the word “diet” … Continued

The Complexity of a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

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Wrongful Death Lawsuit

Do you always need an expert witness in a wrongful death lawsuit?  A wrongful death claim is filed by a representative on behalf of survivors, also termed “real parties in interest.”  Wrongful death plaintiffs seek monetary compensation for their loss. A lawsuit for a wrongful death may be filed by the executor or administrator of the estate or by individual beneficiaries such as … Continued

Young Boy Faced With Disability Discrimination

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Discrimination Expert Witnesses

The world’s largest health insurer has been charged with discrimination against medical insurance customers who were denied mental health services. Plaintiff Jane Doe is the mother of a 13 year old boy diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Her son John was denied applied behavioral analysis, the leading treatment for autism. The complaint states:  ABA (applied behavior analysis) is generally accepted as … Continued

Complications Following Surgical Mesh Medical Devices

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Medical Devices Expert Witnesses

Hernia mesh manufacturers are dealing with thousands of lawsuits as patients seek reparation for medical complications following surgery. Nearly 7,000 lawsuits are pending in three different multidistrict litigation actions. While the medical devices were marketed as safe and effective, the FDA received complaints from patients with side effects including chronic pain, internal bleeding, tissue damage, organ adhesions, etc. In the Northern District of Georgia, over … Continued

E-Cigarette Use Being the Cause of Wrongful Deaths

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E-Cigarette Expert Witnesses

A plaintiff filed a wrongful death lawsuit against an electronic cigarette company alleging that her son died due to his e-cigarette addiction. The complaint was filed on October 16, 2019, in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. The plaintiff describes her son as becoming addicted to his vape pen when he was fifteen. He died … Continued

The Complexity of Patent Infringement and Validity

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Patent Infringement Expert Witnesses

Patent infringement and patent validity lawsuits are more often than not exceptionally complex. Litigation in this area of law requires a highly qualified expert witness with experience in the industry as well as knowledge of the applicable laws and regulations. In a significant patent lawsuit, a New Jersey district court jury has recently ordered an … Continued

Could a Railroad Accident Be Foreseeable?

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Railroad Accidents Expert Witnesses

A Tacoma, WA, jury has awarded three plaintiffs nearly $17M in damages as victims in the 2017 train derailment outside DuPont, WA. The accident killed three and injured more than 60 when the train left the track and plunged down onto Interstate 5. The 5/21/19 National Transportation Safety Board news release reads as follows:  ​Failure to … Continued

Diving Vessel Fire Cause and Investigation

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Fire Expert Witnesses

What areas may a fire expert consult on? Fire investigation experts examine evidence to determine the source of ignition and then analyze the possible cause, which could be natural, accidental, incendiary, or undetermined. These experts are knowledgeable on fire codes as well as building codes and consult on whether buildings or vessels are in compliance.   … Continued

A Pharmaceutical Companies Role in the Opioid Public  Health Crisis

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Pharmaceuticals Expert Witnesses

A privately held pharmaceutical company has negotiated a multibillion-dollar settlement with lawyers for local and state governments that would resolve approximately 2,000 lawsuits against the drug maker. The company is blamed for much of the prescription opioid epidemic in the U.S. The potent opioid painkiller OxyContin was introduced in 1996 and was followed by an … Continued

Fire and Explosions Investigations In Oil Refineries

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Fire Experts

What is the role of the fire expert witness in cases involving fires and explosions? In litigation, the fire expert witness provides valuable analysis and insight to determine the cause of a fire and whether the defendant is responsible for damages. Their expertise extends to fire safety science, arson, fire investigation, chemical explosions, and more.  … Continued

How An Advertising Mistake Can Lead to Litigation

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United States District Judge Jon S. Tigar signed off on a $32.5M settlement that resolves class allegations against Uber Technologies Inc. The case is Byron McNight, et al., v.  Inc., et al.  (Northern District of California, No. 14-cv-05615-JST). Law.com reported that “As part of the deal, Uber has agreed to cease charging ‘Safe Rides Fees’ and to refrain from using statements like ‘safest ride on the road’ and ‘industry-leading’ when … Continued

Social Network Company’s Privacy Invasion Dispute

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Privacy Expert Witnesses

The Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco affirmed the district court order certifying a class action against a social network company’s facial recognition technology. Plaintiffs’ lawyers argued that company illegally collected and stored biometric data for millions of users without their consent. The opinion states:  Specifically, the panel concluded that the development of a … Continued

Defective Products Can Lead to Safety Hazards

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Product Defect Expert Witnesses

Consumers who used the cooking spray Pam have sued alleging that the containers exploded and severely burned, blinded and/or disfigured them. The Cook County Circuit Court lawsuits allege that Conagra designed and manufactured cans that were defective and failed to warn consumers of the danger. Conagra responded that when the product is used correctly, it is 100% safe. The company states that the container design is no longer in production.  The Chicago Sun Times lists the lawsuits … Continued

Massive Oil Spill West of Bakersfield in Kern County

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Oil Spill Expert Witnesses

Crews from an oil industry company are cleaning up a massive oil spill in California after 855,000 gallons of water and oil leaked out of the ground west of Bakersfield. The oil industry company uses steam injection to extract oil in the Cymric Oil Field. John Cox at Bakersfield.com reports: “Surface expression, as the leaking phenomenon is called, can result when high-pressure steam escapes … Continued

Blocking of Pipeline Construction Lifted By Ninth Circuit

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Pipeline Expert Witnesses

The injunction blocking construction on the Keystone XL pipeline has been lifted by the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, Great Falls, MT. The judicial panel dismissed the lawsuit brought by Native American and environmental groups including the Sierra Club and the Natural Resources Defense Council. This is a win for TransCanada Keystone Pipeline LP which plans to ship as much as 35M gallons … Continued

EPA Begins Environmental Remediation Project in Cleveland

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Environmental Remediation Expert Witnesses

The Environmental Protection Agency has begun a $5.9M environmental remediation project at Clark Field in Cleveland’s Tremont neighborhood. The project involves placing a two foot barrier of topsoil between the contaminated soil and what people will come into contact within the park. Contaminates in the park include lead, arsenic and other carcinogens. EPA’s Stephen Wolfe says that adding clean soil on top is far more cost effective than digging … Continued

Coke Oven Emissions Liability Lawsuit

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Liability Lawsuit Expert Witnesses

On June 11, 2019, the New York Court of Appeals ruled that a multinational conglomerate company will face product liability allegations in its failure to warn of the dangers of inhaling coke oven emissions. The appellate court said that coke ovens built for steel producers to burn coal can be considered “products” and therefore are subject to product liability lawsuits. A steelworker … Continued

Cruise Ship Failed to Provide Safety Standards

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Negligence Expert Witnesses

A Plaintiff filed a $10M negligence lawsuit against a cruise line following an accident on the ship’s trampoline bungee ride. Plaintiff fractured his pelvis when the bungee cords broke in February 2019. He was approximately twenty feet in the air and landed on the hard surface of the deck. The complaint in this case states: As … Continued

When Should You Consult With a Trade Secret Expert Witness?

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Trade Secrets Expert Witnesses

When should you consult with a trade secret expert witness? Trade secret experts provide in-depth analysis in disputes alleging unfair practice, unfair competition, and violation of a trade secret. Their experience and knowledge of U.S. Patent and Trademark rules and regulations provides a powerful advantage during litigation.  The World Intellectual Property Organization defines a trade secret: Broadly speaking, any confidential business information which provides an … Continued

Man Dies From Asbestos Brake Dust Found in Bowling Balls

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Asbestos Expert Witnesses

On April 19, 2019, a Los Angeles Superior Court jury awarded $4,397,716 to a family after finding an American multinational conglomerate company 40% liable for the death of a family member due to mesothelioma. This family member co-owned bowling ally in Los Angeles from 1957 to 1986. He died in 2013 after years of drilling out finger holes in asbestos … Continued

Recall and False Marketing Within Toy Company

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Sleepers Expert Witnesses

How does a product safety expert witness enhance your case? In the event of an injury, product safety experts analyze and provide testimony to the court on whether product design and/or manufacturing are at fault or whether injury was caused by misuse of the product. Product safety applies to virtually every product made for  business … Continued

Expert Intervention In Bus Accident Investigation

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Bus Accident Expert Witnesses

The Eighth District Court of Appeals for the State of Ohio has upheld a $30M judgment to the bus passenger against the transportation line. The Plaintiff was one of 43 passengers injured in a 2013 crash on a Pennsylvania highway. A fellow passenger died in the crash when the bus driver fell asleep at the wheel. Plaintiff … Continued

Gender Discrimination In The Workplace

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Gender Discrimination Expert Witnesses

What is the function of an expert witness in litigation?  The court system, as well as plaintiffs and defendants, rely on an expert witness’s specialized knowledge to analyze the facts of a case and offer an unbiased opinion. In gender discrimination litigation, expert witnesses educate the jury on matters of employee discrimination, employee relations, employee … Continued

Inadequate Design and Warning Labels for Medication

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Product Liability Expert Witnesses

On March 25, 2019, two pharmaceutical companies entered into a $775M settlement in 25,000 lawsuits alleging patients were not adequately warned about the risks of a blood thinner product. This product is a medicine used to prevent and treat blood clots in legs or lungs and to prevent strokes in people with irregular heartbeats. Rxlist.com describes the medication and its side … Continued

Economic Expert Witnesses and Patent Infringement

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Patent Expert Witnesses

What is the role of an economics expert witness? These professionals are experienced in business valuation, damage calculation, profit and loss, lost earnings, and other aspects of business finance. In the realm of intellectual property patents, it is often difficult to assign a monetary value to assets. In patent infringement conflict, the determination and evaluation … Continued

Multinational Automaker Under Investigation For Mechanical Defect

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Automobile Defect Expert Witnesses

An automobile company recalled nearly 1.5M trucks that could downshift without warning and cause owners to crash. The February 13, 2019, announcement includes 2011-13 vehicleswith 6-speed automatic transmission. The automobile company states that one of their vehicles could experience a problem when sending a signal from the transmission speed sensor. MotorTrend.com describes the problem: The automobile company is … Continued

Product Liability Experts Judgement on Causation Analysis

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Product Liability Expert Witnesses

When should you confer with a product liability expert witness? Product failure may be due to a mechanical breakdown, design defect, improper maintenance or other factors. It is often necessary to consult with an experienced product liability expert to determine how an accident occurred and who or what was at fault. On February 7, 2019, … Continued

Unfair Business Practices and Civil Penalties

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Privacy Expert Witnesses

The City of Los Angeles has sued to stop the operator of The Weather Channel’s mobile phone application from allegedly profiting from customer location data. On behalf of California residents, L.A. City Attorney Mike Feuer has charged TWC with unfair business practices including unfair competition and violation of privacy. The complaint alleges that TWC uses … Continued

Failure Analysis Litigation Regarding Tire Failure

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Tire Failure Expert Witnesses

Plaintiffs have filed more than forty lawsuits against a tire manufacturer accusing the company of selling defective tires. The tire manufacturer has facilities worldwide and annual sales of more than $15B. The lawsuits are a result of the manufacturer’s tires that burst on the highway. The tires were marketed to recreational motorhome manufacturers even though … Continued

Patent Licensing Between Various Telecommunication Equipment Companies

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Licensing Expert Witnesses

The Federal Trade Commission v. Qualcomm Incorporated bench trial will begin January 14, 2019, in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California with Judge Lucy H. Koh presiding. Qualcomm is a multinational semiconductor and telecommunications equipment company that designs and markets wireless telecommunications products and services. It derives most of its revenue from chip making and the bulk of … Continued

The Role of Unfair Competition Experts in False Advertising

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Unfair Competition Expert Witnesses

Amarin Pharma, Inc. sued Coromega Health Inc. for unfair competition and false advertising in the U.S.District Court, Southern District of California. Case 3:18-cv-02481-CAB-MSB was filed October 29, 2018, and centers around allegations of Coromega falsely advertising its fish oil supplement products as equivalent to Amarin Pharma Inc.’s prescription drug Vascepa. On November 10, 2018, Amarin … Continued

Expert Witnesses Role in Appraising Intangible Assets

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Appraisal Expert Witnesses

How does an expert witness enhance your case?  Experts help the jury determine the facts of a case, particularly in complex litigation such as lawsuits involving the value of intangible property. While a tangible asset has a physical form, an intangible asset lacks physical substance and is usually very hard to evaluate. Examples of intangible assets include patents, copyrights, franchises, … Continued

Ride-Hailing App Company Sues Former Employees for Taking Confidential Records After Leaving the Company

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Contract Dispute Expert Witnesses

A ride-hailing app company has sued four former employees on the company’s corporate intelligence team accusing them of improperly taking confidential records when they left the company. The company alleges that the defendants held onto company hard drives and laptops. Former employee Richard Jacobs argues that the former company team stole trade secrets. In Uber Technologies Inc. … Continued

Las Vegas Hotel Negligence Lawsuit

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Personal Injury Expert Witnesses

Glenn Richardson sued MGM Resorts International for $35M in a negligence lawsuit following his injuries at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in 2015. Richardson turned down the $2.5M settlement offer from MGM before the case went to trial. At trial, plaintiff’s attorney Adam Breeden argued that Richardson suffered a traumatic brain injury which impacted … Continued

Wind Farm Noise Pollution Litigation and the Use of Acoustical Engineering Expert Witnesses

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Acoustical Engineering Expert Witnesses

Do you need an acoustical engineering expert witness for cases involving noise pollution? Noise pollution conflicts arise in environmental, aerospace, residential, and industrial contexts.  Because acoustical engineers have expertise in how noise and sound are utilized and controlled, they are a critical aspect in noise pollution litigation. These experts understand the dynamics of sound as well … Continued

When Should You Consult With a Product Liability Expert Witness?

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Product Liability Expert Witnesses

When should you consult with a product liability expert witness? In the U.S., defective or dangerous products are the cause of thousands of injuries every year. When a product displays an unexpected defect or danger, the product cannot be said to meet the ordinary expectations of the consumer. Flaws in the way a product is marketed, … Continued

Copyright Infringement for Popular Video Game?

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copyright infringement expert

Court proceedings have begun in the copyright infringement lawsuit PUBG Corporation et al v. NetEase, Inc. et al. The U.S. District Court, California Northern District case 4:18-CV-02010 is assigned to Judge Jeffrey White in Oakland. Headquartered in Korea, PUBG is a privately held company founded in 2009. PUBG alleges that the defendant copied ideas from the … Continued

Did a Failed Inspection Cause Roller Coaster Derailment?

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Roller Coaster Expert

The June 14, 2018, Sand Blaster roller coaster derailment sent two people seventeen feet down to the ground and left other riders dangling or stuck on the roller coaster until they were rescued by firefighters. Florida inspectors and independent engineers reported that excessive speed and damage to the track and axle systems were the chief … Continued

A Truck Accident Calls Training Into Question

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Truck accident expert

An Upshur County, TX, jury awarded $101M to Joshua Patterson as a result of being hit from behind by an FTS International Manufacturing truck. The semi-truck driver, Bill Acker, was found to be under the influence of marijuana and methamphetamines while driving the FTS truck. Acker was also on probation with the trucking company for being involved in … Continued

Duck Boat Tragedy in Missouri

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Duck Boat

The National Transportation Safety Board and Coast Guard are investigating the duck boat tragedy that claimed seventeen liveson Table Rock Lake in Missouri. The Ride the Ducks craft capsized and sank in a storm on July 19, 2018. Investigators are looking into what caused the accident, including the weather, life jackets, as well as the mechanics … Continued

Diner Contracts Salmonella

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Salmonella expert

New Hampshire’s Supreme Court has upheld a $750K jury award for restaurant patron Brandon Stachulski who got sick after eating a hamburger at an Applebee’s restaurant and contracted salmonella. Stachulski’s complaint described him as incurring permanent gastrointestinal problems. Apple New England, which owns the restaurant, filed an appeal in 2017 saying there was insufficient evidence … Continued

An Oil Spill in Iowa Due to Train Derailment

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Oil Spill

On June 22, 2018, 32 oil tanker train cars from Alberta, Canada, derailed in the northwest corner of Iowa and dumped an estimated 230,000 gallons of crude oil into floodwaters. The train was carrying ConocoPhillips oil to Oklahoma. No one was hurt in the accident. The new and retrofitted oil tanker cars were designed to … Continued

Warehouse Workers Strike Against Low Wages

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Minimum Wage

Trucking, warehousing, and logistics company California Cartage LLC Company will pay up to $1.9M as a result of wage and hour violations at the company’s Los Angeles storage facility. Warehouse workers filed a lawsuit in 2014 and 2016 alleging that California Cartage violated the state’s minimum wage law, the city’s “living wage” statute and retaliation for … Continued

Trademark Infringement Case: A Battle for “Sports Fuel”

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Trademark Infringement Experts

Chicago U.S. District Judge Matthew Kennelly has ruled that Gatorade did not engage in trademark infringement against SportFuel. SportFuel.com describes the company as “an integrative nutrition consulting firm based in the Chicagoland area.” The company name was registered with the USPTO in 2008. SportFuel sought to stop Gatorade from using the “Sports Fuel” name as … Continued

Safety Concerns Ignored in Helicopter Crash

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Cockpit helicopter - Instruments panel. Interior of helicopter control dashboard, Heli on the ground.

KOMO-TV, Helicopters Inc, and the estate of the Seattle’s television station’s late pilot will pay $40M to two men who were injured when a news helicopter plummeted off the station’s rooftop in 2014 and crashed into the plaintiff’s cars. Guillermo Sanchez and Richard Newman alleged that KOMO and Helicopters Inc. ignored safety concerns about landing … Continued

Pharmacology Experts Vital in Johnson & Johnson Talc Lawsuit

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Talcum powder on hand

Pharmaceutical company Johnson & Johnson was ordered to pay $37M in the case of a New Jersey man who claimed he got mesothelioma from J&J’s talcum powder. Stephen Lanzo III used J&J’s product for over thirty years and believes they contained talc laced with asbestos. The New Brunswick, NJ, jury agreed with him. They found … Continued

Increasing UAV Accidents Call For Drones Expert Witnesses

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Drone is taking off from man hands. Young man releasing aerial copter to fly with small digital camera.

The market for drones is expanding. During the 2017 Christmas season, U.S. shoppers bought nearly 1.6 million drones, up 31% from Christmas 2016.  Drones are complicated electronic devices and their safety is highly debated. Yorkdispatch.com tells us that during Christmas 2017 “social-media platforms were filled with tales of drones that crashed into trees, windows, and people … Continued

Computer Forensics Expert Critical to Waymo’s Settlement

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Hands on Computer Analyzing Computer Data

A computer forensics expert testified in the U.S. Northern District of California trade secret lawsuit filed by Waymo against Uber. These experts investigate different types of digital data found on computers or other electronic devices in order to locate and identify different forms of evidence. In the Waymo case, the computer forensics expert analyzed the … Continued

Former White Sox Player Sues Team for Negligence

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Closeup low section of a baseball player injured

Former Chicago White Sox player Dustin Fowler is suing the team and the agency that manages Guaranteed Rate Field for negligence following his knee injury in June 2017. Fowler ran after a foul ball and collided with an electrical box at knee level. He suffered a rupture of the patella tendon in his right knee … Continued

Largest and Most Complex Automotive Recall in U.S. History

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Car Recall Maintenance. Automotive Recall Concept. Technician Preparing Vehicle For the Repair.

On January 4, 2018, U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Brendan Shannon in Wilmington, DE, gave auto supplier Takata’s creditors the green light to vote on the bankrupt company’s Chapter 11 plan. Takata filed for bankruptcy in June 2017 during a massive recall of its defective airbags. The company manufactures and sells motor vehicle seat belts, airbags, steering … Continued

Medical Negligence Case: Patient Receives Infection After Oral Surgery

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Oral Surgery Experts

Oral surgery expert witnesses are knowledgeable in surgery complications following tooth removal, rehabilitative dentistry, restorative implants, endodontics, periodontics, and additional oral surgery procedures. Oral surgery litigation may result from alleged surgery errors, unforeseen side effects, prescribing the wrong post-surgery medication, or other unexpected problems occurring before, during, or after surgery. In Augusta, Maine, jurors found … Continued

Drone Incidents and Near-Misses at Airports

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Drone equipped with camera flying in the air

The market for remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) systems, commonly known as drones, is expanding. The three main segments of the industry are consumer drones, enterprise drones, and government drones. As a result of this growth, RPA manufacturers and operators are seeking greater access to airspace. The International Air Transport Association, Airports Council International, and the … Continued

Poor Product Factors That Lead to Product Safety Lawsuits

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Product safety lawsuits involving personal injury may allege poor product design or manufacturing, as well as human factors and misuse of the product. In the news, Ikea relaunched a recall on approximately 17.3 million chests and dressers in the U.S. Ikea.com states, “The recalled chests and dressers are unstable if they are not properly anchored to … Continued

Wastewater Contamination Calls for Environmental Engineering Expert

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In Southern Alliance for Clean Energy and Tropical Audubon Society Incorporated v. Florida Power & Light Company, the power company was charged with violating the Clean Water Act. Florida Power & Light’s nuclear power reactors at Turkey Point are allegedly leaking polluted water into Biscayne Bay. Plaintiffs state that FPL has created a large saltwater … Continued

Contract Disputes: Lawsuit Between State and Global Security Company

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Contract Disputes Experts

Northrop Grumman filed a lawsuit against the state of Virginia in May over contractual disagreements. The state countersued in June. Virginia Information Technologies alleges the global security company is responsible for delays and costs in canceling a $2.4B contract. The VITA countersuit cites “inadequate knowledge transfer” and “NG’s refusal to perform necessary transition activities, and … Continued

Environmental Lawsuit: Compensation for Environmental Contamination

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Environmental Contamination Experts

Attorney General Bob Ferguson filed an environmental lawsuit against an agricultural company in King County (WA) Superior Court. The lawsuit seeks damages and cleanup costs associated with the polychlorinated PCB contamination in Washington from biphenyls (PCBs) that the company produced for decades. The AG office states: The agricultural company was the only U.S. company to … Continued

Age Discrimination Expert Testimony Can Be Crucial

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Age Discrimination Experts

Age discrimination involves treating an applicant or employee less favorably because of his or her age. The Age Discrimination in Employment Act forbids age discrimination against people who are age 40 or older. In the news a former employee (Plaintiff) has accused her company (Defendant) of age discrimination. Plaintiff worked as a maintenance technician at … Continued

Self-Driving Tech Company in Trial for Trade Secret Theft

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A trade secret litigation between two autonomous car development companies is scheduled for trial in October. The Northern District of California complaint alleges that a former employee took 14,000 proprietary files and used them to create a new startup in which the tech corporation later acquired. Plaintiff accuses its former engineer of taking driverless car trade secrets with … Continued

Gastroenterology Expert Used to Support Acne Drug Litigation

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Over 2000 product liability lawsuits have been reinstated against Defendant, a large pharmaceutical healthcare company by users of the acne drug Accutane. Plaintiffs allege they developed severe bowel disease after taking the medication. Lawsuits accused Defendant of knowing there was a link between Accutane and gastrointestinal symptoms. The acne drug was taken off the market in 2009. … Continued

The Legality and Gravity of Price Fixing

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Fixed Price

What constitutes price fixing? According to the Department of Justice Antitrust Division: Price fixing is an agreement among competitors to raise, fix, or otherwise maintain the price at which their goods or services are sold. It is not necessary that the competitors agree to charge exactly the same price, or that every competitor in a … Continued

Wage and Hour Case: Employees Not Paid Overtime Wages

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A company will pay $717,202 in back pay and damages to settle claims by the U.S. Department of Labor that it broke rules laid out in the Fair Labor Standards Act. The company was found to not have paid overtime to employees who were on the job more than forty hours a week as well … Continued

Medical Malpractice Case: Hospitalist Testimony Can Be Crucial

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abstract medical health care innovation concept background

What is a hospitalist?  Hospitalists are physicians skilled in all types of medical treatment administered within the hospital setting. Hospitals serve many different patients with a wide spectrum of conditions. Standard of care is especially relevant in any type of hospital service, particularly when significant decisions must be made immediately. When allegations of medical negligence … Continued

New England Compounding Center Found Guilty of Fraud

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The owner and head pharmacist of New England Compounding Center was found guilty of racketeering and fraud and sentenced to nine years in prison. In 2012, 753 patients in 20 states were diagnosed with a fungal infection after being injected with contaminated medical steroids manufactured by NECC. Sixty-four patients in nine states died in what … Continued

Wage and Hour Dispute: Shift Manager Not Paid Overtime Wages

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Dead line concept with businessman holding his head and flying w

In a wage and hour dispute, a former shift manager has accused the company of not paying him overtime wages. The Fortune 500 e-commerce company is based in Seattle, WA. Plaintiff worked in several warehouses in the San Francisco Bay Area. In the Contra Costa County Superior Court lawsuit, plaintiff states that upon his hiring, … Continued

Toxic Tort Case: Expert’s opinion on causation is crucial

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The US Court of Appeals, Seventh Circuit, affirmed summary judgment in favor of the defendant in a toxic tort claim. The plaintiffs blamed the glue manufacturer for neurological and psychological problems that the plaintiff experienced after exposure to the company’s adhesive. Discovery lasted for over three years with the district court finding that the evidence … Continued

Car Seats Recall May Require Product Safety Experts

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The text Product Recall appearing behind torn brown paper

Graco Children’s Products Inc. is recalling more than 25,000 car seats that might not adequately restrain children during a crash. The recall affects eight different models of the “’My Ride 65’” convertible car seats which were manufactured between May and August 2014. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced that the webbing in these car … Continued

Railroad Accident Experts Used in Rail Transportation Cases

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empty railroad train tracks

Rail transportation in the US has increased with the increase in shipments of crude oil. The Federal Railroad Administration inspects 161K miles of track and publishes alerts when there may be a violation of rail transportation regulations. Nonobservance of these regulations may cause accidents with tragic results. The Associated Press reports that federal inspectors discovered … Continued

Debt Collection Agency Shut Down Due to Illegal Practices

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Bill Past Due

Debt collection agencies make it easier for businesses to manage their clients with delinquent accounts. The federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act as well as individual states’ collection laws regulate the process. Even so, debt collection agencies may be charged with illegal practices. The Colorado Attorney General’s office investigated and shut down such an agency. … Continued

Internet Company Sued for Contract Fraud

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Fraud, audit, auditor.

In 2016 a New York Attorney General’s office investigated internet service providers over failing to deliver the connectivity speeds they promised. Earlier this year, the office sued Charter Communications and its subsidiary Spectrum, formerly known as Time Warner Cable. Spectrum-Time Warner Cable has 2.5 million subscribers in New York and the AG’s office has received … Continued

Employment Discrimination Experts Used in Gender Bias Litigation

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An open and fair work environment is stipulated in Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The Act protects individuals from gender discrimination. It states “The law forbids discrimination when it comes to any aspect of employment, including hiring, firing, pay, job assignments, promotions, layoff, training, fringe benefits, and any other term or condition … Continued

Class Action Lawsuit on Privacy Settled Against Social Networking Company

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A settlement has been reached in the class-action lawsuit brought against a social networking company regarding their customer’s private electronic information. The world’s largest social network was charged with scanning its users’ private messages for advertising purposes. Plaintiffs filed the class action complaint in the US District Court for the Northern District of California citing violations of … Continued

Trade Secret Expert For Lawsuit Between Two Major Developers in Self-Driving Technology

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The Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas and the Detroit Auto Show unveiled the latest in driverless vehicles, also known as autonomous, automated or self-driving cars. Automakers and technology companies have spent millions of dollars in the development and testing of this transportation innovation. In consequence, the technology behind driverless vehicles is competitive and highly … Continued

Chemical Fires and Explosions Expert For Reboiler Rupture

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Chemical fires and explosions experts analyze data to determine the source of accidents and report these findings to the court. They are trained to consult in litigation following an explosion and opine on the cause of the accident. A Louisiana jury assigned responsibility for a 2013 chemical plant explosion that killed two and injured 167 … Continued

Medicare Fraud: Fraudulent Orthopedic Surgeries

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Orthopedic Surgery Expert

Patients with bone, joint or ligament injuries and diseases rely on orthopedic surgeons for medical care. These professionals repair and replace bones, joints, and nerves to improve the musculoskeletal system. When allegations of medical negligence are filed against these doctors, the orthopedic surgery expert witness is called in to consult and opine on whether the … Continued

News Network Sued for $750M in Defamation Case

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Defamation Expert Witness

Defamation experts analyze allegations of slander (spoken statements) and libel (written statements) to determine if defamation of character or reputation has occurred. To win a defamation case, a plaintiff must show four things: 1) a false statement purporting to be fact; 2) publication or communication of that statement to a third person; 3) fault amounting to … Continued

Construction Defect Claims in New Homes Increasing

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Construction defect claims in brand new homes have been on the increase. In the news, ABC stations nationwide broadcast the article Investigation: New Home Heartbreak last fall. The investigation found “poor workmanship and failure to honor a warranty topping the list of common gripes against builders.” DR Horton, the largest homebuilder in the US, was … Continued

Federal Regulation Dispute May Require Employment Experts

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Line of diverse candidates for a job with a check boxes above their heads as a metaphor for a discrimination during an employment interview, EPS 8 vector illustration

Federal and state statues are in place to regulate workplace policies and provide employee protection. These laws make it illegal for contractors and subcontractors doing business with the federal government to discriminate in employment because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran. Businesses contracting … Continued

Product Liability Experts Consult on Tip-Over Accidents

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Crashing shelf in the office

What areas may product liability experts consult on? These professionals investigate and report on product failures including design defects and mechanical failures. Unfortunately, design flaws may result in serious injury or death. In the headlines, Ikea will pay $50M to the families of three toddlers who died after their dressers tipped over. The families brought … Continued

Antitrust Experts and Big Pharma Price Fixing

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Antitrust Experts

The Justice Department has charged two former New Jersey pharmaceutical company executives with price fixing on generic drugs. Prosecutors named Jeffrey Glazer, former CEO of Heritage Pharmaceuticals, and Jason Malek, a former VP, as defendants in an antitrust lawsuit filed in the United States District Court, Eastern District of Pennsylvania. In United States v. Jeffrey … Continued

Nuclear Engineering Expert Opines on Contaminated Site

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Nuclear Engineering Expert

A nuclear engineering expert testified in the Department of Justice case that resulted in the recent $125M settlement against contractors Bechtel National and AECO. In 2013, whistleblowers who were managers at the Hanford nuclear reservation in Washington State brought allegations of nuclear quality violations and misuse of taxpayers’ money. Since 2002, the Department of Energy … Continued

Fatal Warehouse Blaze Will Need Building Fires Expert Analysis

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Building Fires Expert

Building fires expert witnesses are knowledgeable in the area of fire cause and origin and are qualified to provide critical analysis of evidence to determine what led to a fire. They examine fire patterns, witness statements, aerial photography, and the amount of damage to determine the ignition source. In the news, a deadly fire claimed … Continued

Pollution Experts Identify Illegal Dumping by Cruise Line

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Pollution experts monitor industries that risk producing and releasing pollution into groundwater, fresh water, and oceans. Pollutants can have devastating health and environmental consequences resulting in litigation. In a recent case, Princess Cruise Lines will pay a $40M fine for “deliberate pollution of the seas and intentional acts to cover it up.” An engineer on … Continued

Geotechnical Engineering Expert Opines on Leaning Tower in San Francisco

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Geotechnical Engineering Expert

What areas may construction experts consult on? These experts are called upon to review many areas of construction litigation including construction defects, construction damages, structural analysis, and more. Homeowners in the San Francisco luxury Millennium Tower have filed a $500M class action lawsuit against the developer over the building’s excessive settlement and tilting. The homeowners’ association … Continued

Occupational and Environmental Medicine Experts Needed in Asbestos Case

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Occupational and Environmental Medicine Experts

Occupational and environmental medicine experts will testify in a new asbestos trial involving R.J. Reynolds. The plaintiff in the original lower court case, Richard DeLisle, suffers with asbestos mesothelioma and argued that his condition is a result of working at Brightwater Paper Co. with gaskets manufactured by Crane Co. and smoking R.J. Reynolds Kent cigarettes … Continued

Aviation Fire Experts Investigate Boeing 767 Engine Failure

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Aviation Fire Experts

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the October 28, 2016, Boeing 767 engine failure at Chicago’s O’ Hare airport. Flight 383 was taking off when a fuel leak resulted in a fire under the right wing. Investigators are analyzing a high pressure turbine disk from the General Electric CF6-80 engine which broke into … Continued

Self-Driving Car Experts Respond to First Fatal Accident

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Self-Driving Car Expert

Tesla’s Autopilot system is making headlines in the U.S. and overseas regarding the terms “self driving” and “autopilot.” Tesla is an American automaker and energy storage company based in Palo Alto. Regulators fear that consumers may misconstrue the “autonomous” description of Tesla cars and expect the vehicle to drive itself entirely.  An Ohio driver may have been watching a … Continued

Automotive Recall Experts Identify Defect

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Automotive Recall Experts

What areas may automotive recall experts consult on?  These professionals are experienced in auto industry specific issues involving airbags, seat belts, brakes, fuel systems, and cruise control, as well as other mechanical features. In the news, Nissan North America issued a recall on September 12th for over 130,000 Maxima, Murano and Murano Hybrids equipped with … Continued

Nursing Expert Witness Confirms Negligence in Wrongful Death Case

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Nursing Expert

A nursing expert witness testified in the wrongful death lawsuit filed against the Good Shepherd Health Center in Mason City, Iowa. The children of Maria O’Brien claim the nursing home was negligent in caring for their mother and are seeking $10M in damages. The nursing expert reviewed the care provider’s home records and testified that … Continued

Train Derailment Experts Assess Crash in New Jersey

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Train Derailment Experts

Train derailment experts evaluate an incident to determine the cause and whether it is related to human factors, a mechanical defect, or an outside source. The cause of derailment may be related to human error or the structural engineering of the train and/or track. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the Hoboken, NJ, commuter … Continued

Computer Forensics Experts Investigate Hacked Dropbox Account

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Computer Forensics Experts

Computer forensics experts are trained to investigate computer security and fraud. IT fraud litigation requires these experts to perform a computer forensic examination for content in emails, documents and files. Their investigations may reveal when a document was created, edited, and saved and by whom. In the news, California Representative Mike Honda has sued his campaign … Continued

Banking Fraud Expert Witnesses Blow Lid Off Wells Fargo Fraud Case

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Banking Expert

What areas may banking fraud expert witnesses consult on? These professionals evaluate and opine on commercial banking practices, internal bank policies, credit cards, and more. Their expertise and testimony can be a deciding factor in lawsuits alleging illegal banking practices. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has fined Wells Fargo $100M for illegal banking methods. The bank … Continued

Product Liability: Expert Witness Opines on Defective Hunting Rifle

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Product Liability Expert

A product liability expert witness testified in the lawsuit Carol O’Neal filed against Remington Arms Co. regarding the death of her husband in a hunting accident.  The complaint argues that a faulty trigger mechanism on her husband’s Remington Model M700 rifle misfired, resulting in his death. The product’s liability lawsuit also states that Remington knew … Continued

Occupational Safety Expert Examines Construction Site Fire

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Occupational Safety Expert

The occupational safety expert is trained to evaluate workplaces with various hazards. These experts are knowledgeable about hazardous materials, construction safety, accident prevention, OSHA requirements, and more. The 2,600-foot-long Liberty Bridge in Pittsburg was undergoing an $80M reconstruction project when a fire broke out that risked collapsing the downtown structure. OSHA experts examined the site … Continued

Trade Dress Expert Measures Brand Dilution

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Trade Dress Expert

Trade dress litigation may involve disputes over packaging, marketing, product design, and more. Trade dress expert witnesses are knowledgeable in trademark infringement, licensing, brand dilution, and related matters. In Trader Joe’s Company v. Michael Norman Hallatt, dba Pirate Joe’s, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in favor of Trader Joe’s regarding a risk … Continued

Automotive Engineering Experts Cautious of Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) Systems

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Automotive Engineering Experts

Automotive engineering experts are often required in litigation involving traffic accidents. In accident reconstructions, these experienced engineers consult and testify on how vehicles operate and whether there was a mechanical failure. Their unbiased opinion is often a determining factor in the outcome of an automotive engineering lawsuit. In an effort to help prevent crashes or … Continued

Allegedly Mismanaged 401(K)s Call for Investment Expert Witnesses

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Investment Expert Witnesses

Investment expert witnesses are licensed and/or certified accountants, financial analysts, investment analysts, as well as other related financial professions. They are experienced with stocks, securities, and other investment options. In the news, Robert Patterson, a participant in Morgan Stanley’s retirement plan, has filed a lawsuit accusing the company of mismanaging the company’s 401(k) retirement plan. … Continued

Advertising Expert to Review Online Travel Brands’ Promotions

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Advertising Expert

An independent hotel operator has filed a class action lawsuit in U.S. District Court, Northern California, against Expedia, Inc., Hotels.com, L.P., Hotels.com GP, LLC, Orbitz, LLC and Trivago, GmbH. The operator of the Buckeye Tree Lodge and Sequoia Village Inn in Three Rivers, CA, is suing the online travel companies for false advertising and unfair competition. A … Continued