Johnson’s Baby Powder on Trial: What You Need to Know

More than 65,000 women have filed lawsuits claiming that Johnson & Johnson’s talcum powder caused ovarian cancer. These cases have been combined into an MDL in federal court in New Jersey. The first trial in this group of cases has now been chosen- our client, Ms. Judkins.

This trial is important because it’s the first time a jury in the MDL will hear the evidence and decide if Johnson & Johnson is responsible.

The Case

Ms. Judkins used Johnson’s Baby Powder for over 30 years, starting when she was 15. In 2016, she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Johnson & Johnson knew for decades that their baby powder contained asbestos—a harmful substance known to cause cancer—but didn’t warn the public. Instead, they focused on protecting their brand image.

Behind the Brand

A new book called No More Tears: The Dark Secrets of Johnson & Johnson by journalist Gardiner Harris reveals how the company hid the dangers of its products for years. It focuses on nine of Johnson & Johnson’s most controversial products, including Johnson’s Baby Powder, showing how they put profits ahead of people—something we’ve been saying all along.

What’s Next?

More trials are coming:

• Los Angeles: late 2025
• New Jersey: January 2026
• Philadelphia: two trials in early 2026
• Georgia: sometime in 2026

A mediator has been appointed to help the parties possibly reach a settlement, even though Johnson & Johnson says they’re not ready to talk.

Our Role

We are proud to be representing Ms. Judkins and helping lead the charge against J&J. Over the past decade, Beasley Allen lawyers have tirelessly tried these cases across the country, seeking justice for affected women.

Our relentless pursuit of justice has led to landmark verdicts, holding Johnson & Johnson accountable. Jury-awarded damages have totaled over $724 million, and these efforts have resulted in Johnson & Johnson ceasing the sale of its talc-based Baby Powder worldwide.

We are committed to continuing our fight in the courtroom to ensure that every affected woman receives the justice and compensation she rightfully deserves.