The Jere Beasley Report January 2026

CAPITOL OBSERVATIONS

Celebrating Fred Gray: A Lifetime Of Service, Justice, And Impact

December 14 marked a remarkable milestone: Fred Gray’s 95th birthday. It was an occasion, not only to celebrate a long life, but to honor a legacy of service, leadership, and enduring commitment to the public good.

Over the course of his extraordinary career, this man has been responsible for so much good in our country. Through decades of principled leadership, dedication, hard work, and unwavering integrity, Fred helped shape institutions, strengthen communities, and advance ideals that continue to define who we are and who we aspire to be. His contributions were never about personal recognition, but about making systems more fair, opportunities broader, and justice more accessible to all people. Fred will leave a legacy that will be as good as it comes. His battle for justice and freedom must be made known to all people, especially to the young. It’s important that the Fred Gray story continue to be told! 

What makes Fred Gray’s story especially inspiring is not only what he has accomplished in the past, but what he continues to do today. At 95, he remains actively engaged in the critically important field of justice and civil rights. His voice, experience, and moral clarity still matter—and he continues to help others and to guide younger generations. Fred continues to stand up for the values he has always believed in and fought diligently for. 

The Fred D. Gray Institute for Human & Civil Rights has been created. Fred has been traveling the country, continuing the ongoing battle for justice and civil rights. I am honored to serve on the Board of Directors for the Institute. 

In a time when justice and civil rights remain central to our national conversation, Fred’s continued involvement is both reassuring and motivating. He reminds us that progress is built over lifetimes, that wisdom grows with experience, and that meaningful contributions do not end with retirement or age.

On his special day, we celebrated Fred Gray not just for reaching 95 years, but for how he has lived those years: with purpose, compassion, and an enduring commitment to liberty and justice for all. We should all thank this man for all he has given and continues to give to our country. 

I am blessed to have this great American hero as my longtime friend.

THE ATLANTA OFFICE

Atlanta Office Has Another Record-Breaking Year

Throughout 2025, Beasley Allen’s Atlanta office delivered exceptional results in high-stakes litigation, securing multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements that brought accountability to corporations and institutions whose wrongdoing caused devastating harm.

Our Atlanta team achieved over $344 million in verdicts and settlements, a testament to their relentless pursuit of justice. This impressive total includes:

• A nine-figure class action settlement
• Multiple seven and eight-figure settlements in trucking and product liability cases
• An eight-figure verdict in a negligent security case
• Numerous seven-figure settlements in commercial vehicle and premises liability matters

By the Numbers

• 17 Lawyers
• 18 Staff
• Total Verdicts and Settlements: Over $344 million
• Most Recent Verdict: $66.5 million
• Recent Class Action Settlement: $175 million post-trial settlement with GM, securing thousands of dollars per vehicle for class members

Since opening in January 2017, the Atlanta office has grown from a single lawyer to a team of 17 lawyers and 18 staff, delivering results that speak for themselves.

Trucking Triumphs

Beasley Allen continues to stand up to big trucking firms and their insurers—both in and out of the courtroom. Our thorough investigations uncover critical details that maximize recovery for our clients.

In 2025, the Atlanta office resolved several major commercial vehicle cases, including a $9 million South Carolina settlement for a client who suffered catastrophic injuries in a disputed liability case. Looking ahead, trucking cases remain a top priority, with numerous major cases in litigation or investigation—including tragedies involving a young child who lost their entire family and a community leader killed by a logging truck accident.

Navigating Negligent Security & Winning

Our team secured multiple seven-figure settlements and an eight-figure verdict in premises liability and negligent security cases. Our most recent verdict? $66.5 million for the family of Mariam “Mari” Creighton, holding Elleven45 Lounge and its operators accountable for negligence that led to Mari’s tragic death. This landmark case underscores our commitment to fighting for victims and driving systemic change.

We also secured a $6.25 million catastrophic premises liability settlement, led by attorneys Parker Miller and Key Lamberth, for clients injured in an apartment fire caused by dangerous property conditions.

TALC LITIGATION

Talc Litigation Update

A Los Angeles jury has awarded $40 million following a month-long Bellwether trial against Johnson & Johnson, involving ovarian cancer claims linked to the company’s talc products. The verdict was reached after about six hours of deliberation. 

The jury found that J&J’s talc products were a substantial factor in causing ovarian cancer in the two Plaintiffs, Deborah Schultz and Monica Kent. Mrs. Schultz and her husband were awarded $22 million in compensatory damages. Plaintiff Kent received $18 million. No punitive damages were awarded, even though the jury found J&J’s wrongful conduct to have been intentional. 

Plaintiff Monica Kent was our client. During closing arguments, Beasley Allen lawyer Andy Birchfield urged jurors to hold J&J accountable for decades of alleged misconduct, arguing that internal company documents showed that the company knew of potential cancer risks associated with talc products but failed to adequately warn consumers. The case relied heavily on internal J&J documents as far back as the 1970s that clearly show the intentional wrongdoing of J&J. 

The jury found J&J liable for negligence, negligent failure to warn, and false representation. Johnson & Johnson has indicated that they will appeal the verdict, but the trial record shows no error. This trial marks the first ovarian cancer Bellwether in Los Angeles Superior Court following the company’s failed attempts to resolve talc litigation through multiple bankruptcy proceedings.

Monica Kent is represented by Andy Birchfield, Leigh O’Dell, Margaret M. Thompson and Ted Meadows of Beasley Allen.

Deborah and Albert Schultz are represented by Daniel S. Robinson of Robinson Calcagnie Inc.

The Talc Litigation Team at Beasley Allen remains committed to holding Johnson & Johnson accountable and pursuing justice for individuals harmed by dangerous products.  This win was a key and critically important outcome in the overall litigation. 

The Talc Trial Victory Resonates Deeply For One Grieving Husband

When the jury delivered its verdict on Friday, December 12, in the California case, one person in the courtroom felt the moment in a way few others could. Lonnie Boutwell, who lost his wife to ovarian cancer in 2016, had traveled from Texas to witness nearly every day of the trial. His own case against Johnson & Johnson is still pending, but he made the trip because he believed it was important to see justice pursued—not only for the women at the center of this trial, but for his wife as well.

Lonnie attended the proceedings with a quiet determination. He had promised his wife that he would see this fight through, and he kept that promise by sitting in the courtroom day after day, returning to his home in Texas only briefly around Thanksgiving. The trial was painful at times, stirring memories of the suffering his wife endured in her final months, but Lonnie remained committed. 

When the verdict was read, Lonnie viewed it as a measure of justice for her, even though the case was not his own. The outcome affirmed his belief that accountability was necessary and long overdue.

Lonnie told Law360 in an interview why he watched the trial in person. He said it was because his wife wanted “someone to be punished for what they did to her.” He added: “I promised her I’d see this through.” His wife had died of ovarian cancer. 

Our firm is honored to represent Lonnie. During the interview with Law360, with tears welling up in his eyes, Lonnie recalled his wife being in so much pain she “begged to die,” though she lived for months longer. Lonnie says that the verdict in California was a form of justice for his wife, even though it wasn’t her case. Lonnie says the verdict told him that he was “right” in what he was thinking.

Beasley Allen lawyers first met Lonnie earlier this year in the Houston Bankruptcy Court, where Johnson & Johnson attempted to use bankruptcy to shield itself from legitimate ovarian cancer claims. Lonnie attended those proceedings on behalf of his wife. After weeks of testimony and argument, he stood before the court and delivered a powerful, deeply personal statement opposing the company’s attempt to avoid responsibility. His words left a lasting impression on everyone present.

Source: Law360

Beasley Allen Prepares For A New Wave Of Talc Trials In 2026

Beasley Allen is entering the new year with a full slate of talcum powder and ovarian cancer trials scheduled across the country. This is another critical phase in the battle to hold Johnson & Johnson accountable for the harm caused to thousands of women. The next round of trials begins in Philadelphia state court this month, followed by additional proceedings in New Jersey in March and April. More trials are set for Georgia and Illinois in April, with more cases expected in Florida and Illinois later this summer.

These upcoming trials represent only a fraction of the nationwide litigation, where thousands of claims remain pending, and jury verdicts have already reached into the billions. Each case continues to expose the company’s long-standing knowledge of the dangers associated with talc products and the devastating toll on women and their families.

Beasley Allen lawyers remain deeply committed to leading this litigation on behalf of ovarian cancer victims. The firm continues to invest significant resources, trial experience, and scientific experts to ensure that the women harmed by talc products receive the justice they deserve. As new trial dates approach, the firm stands ready to present the evidence, tell the stories of the women affected, and push forward toward accountability.

With more trials on the horizon and momentum building nationwide, Beasley Allen remains at the forefront of this historic effort to protect public health and honor the lives of the women whose families continue to seek answers and justice.

Judge Orders Limited Exchange Of Expert Invoices In J&J Talc Cancer Litigation

A New Jersey federal judge has ruled that plaintiffs overseeing the multidistrict litigation against Johnson & Johnson (J&J) over its talcum powder products may obtain invoices for the company’s expert witnesses—but only after first producing their own expert invoices.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Rukhsanah L. Singh partially granted the plaintiffs steering committee’s motion to compel, finding that while the request for expert billing records is not unduly burdensome and could be relevant to showing potential bias, discovery must proceed on an even footing. The court ordered the committee to turn over expert invoices in its possession before J&J is required to produce corresponding invoices for its experts in federal and state talc cases.

The steering committee sought the invoices last August, contending they could reveal financial interests or bias and be used to challenge expert credibility. J&J objected, contending the request was disproportionate, unnecessary, and potentially confusing for juries.

This ruling comes amid ongoing discovery disputes in the long-running litigation. As the parties prepared for the first bellwether trial, recent court activity included the addition of new defendants and continued battles over the scope of permissible discovery.

Source: Law360

Beasley Allen Talc Litigation Team

The ongoing battle with Johnson & Johnson (J&J) continues as set out above. Beasley Allen took on J&J in the very beginning. We will continue to battle J&J on every front and do so as long as necessary. While J&J’s fraudulent bankruptcy attempts delayed justice for thousands of victims, our lawyers have not backed down. Beasley Allen lawyers will continue to fight this battle in the right way and for the right reason to the very end. Justice will ultimately be served for the thousands of J&J victims and their families.

Beasley Allen lawyers Leigh O’Dell and Ted Meadows head our Talc Ovarian Cancer Litigation Team. From the beginning, the litigation team has been directly involved in all phases of the talc litigation. Andy Birchfield, who heads up our Mass Torts Section, has been out front in all aspects of this litigation. Andy actually became J&J’s target. He has been attacked by this huge, powerful company constantly. J&J has tried very hard to intimidate Andy and the firm, but their efforts have not worked and will not work in the future. Andy is leading the trial team in the ongoing case in California. 

This has been a tough battle, but it is a critically important and necessary one. Rest assured, our lawyers will not back down. Beasley Allen will continue its battle with J&J, and our clients’ best interests are at the top of our list of priorities.  

The following Beasley Allen lawyers are members of the Talc Litigation Team:

Leigh O’Dell, Ted Meadows, Kelli Alfreds, Ryan Beattie, Beau Darley, David Dearing, Liz Achtemeier, Jennifer Emmel, James Lampkin, Caty O’Quinn, Cristina Rodriguez, Brittany Scott, and Matt Teague.

CAMP LEJEUNE LITIGATION

Litigation Update

The Camp Lejeune Litigation is ongoing with lots of work still to be done. Currently, Beasley Allen represents 7,388 claimants in this litigation. At a recent status conference before Federal Magistrate Judge Robert Jones, several key issues were addressed.

Plaintiffs’ Leadership Group (PLG) reiterated its request for digitized muster rolls to verify claimants’ residency at Camp Lejeune. The Department of Justice (DOJ) has only provided two years of data from the 32-year period. In response to concerns about the delay in producing muster rolls for the other thirty years, the DOJ has claimed that a service-wide digitization project is going to cost over $1 million and that it would not be able to complete digitizing all muster rolls until 2026. The PLG argued this contradicts prior DOJ assurances. A Motion to Compel will be filed by the PLG if this issue remains unresolved.

The PLG has filed a motion to streamline Expert Witness Daubert reviews. It was also requested that the court schedule one disease group for trial as soon as possible, and that the trial judge then hear all expert testimony and make admissibility determinations at trial. The DOJ opposed this motion and will file a response. 

Additionally, the DOJ is seeking to create a firm supplementation deadline for expert opinions. For good reason, the PLG opposes the deadline. Improper substantive changes were made by DOJ experts after Daubert challenges. The PLG intends to file a Motion to Strike these supplements.

The admissibility of the ATSDR water model remains contested. The PLG contends that the model is reliable and foundational to the Camp Lejeune Justice Act. The PLG asked for the full court to determine if the model was properly conducted and admissible. Everything else can be evaluated by individual trial judges at trial. The DOJ argued for a full court evidentiary hearing and stated that there are also reliability concerns with the ATSDR model.

The PLG requested claimant payment data, such as premiums and co-pays. The DOJ is consulting TRICARE, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and CMS (Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services). They claim VA research could take 10–12 hours per account. If the DOJ and the PLG are unable to reach a resolution, the PLG will file a Motion to Compel.

The DOJ reported incomplete claimant data (DOB and SSN) for about 700 submissions and is working with the PLG to resolve this.

This case is very important to our veterans who were at Camp Lejeune and who were exposed and injured through no fault of their own. We are working hard to see that they are properly compensated. 

Federal Judges Limit Vapor Evidence In Camp Lejeune Case

A panel of federal judges in North Carolina has ruled that evidence of water vapor intrusion cannot be used to prove causation in the Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuits. The judges sided with the government’s interpretation of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, which defines “the water at Camp Lejeune” as water supplied by or on behalf of the United States, excluding vapor that seeped from contaminated groundwater into buildings. 

The ruling adopts the recommendation by U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert B. Jones Jr. to limit vapor intrusion evidence only for causation purposes, while allowing it for other uses. Plaintiffs had argued that the statutory language was broader and that the government had not properly raised the issue. The panel rejected those objections, finding the phrases substantively identical. 

The court also noted that evidence of vapors from activities like showering or cooking with supplied water remains admissible. This decision comes amid consolidated litigation involving about 1,500 lawsuits from veterans and families who claim exposure to contaminated water between 1953 and 1987 caused cancers and other illnesses. 

As the cases move toward bellwether trials, plaintiffs have accused the government of filing excessive pretrial motions to delay proceedings.

Judges Richard E. Myers II, Terrence W. Boyle, Louise W. Flanagan and James C. Dever III sat on the panel for the Eastern District of North Carolina.

The plaintiffs’ leadership group includes J. Edward Bell of Bell Legal Group LLC, Robin L. Greenwald of Weitz & Luxenberg PC, Elizabeth Cabraser of Lieff Cabraser Heimann & Bernstein LLP, W. Michael Dowling of Dowling PLLC, James A. Roberts of Lewis & Roberts PLLC and Mona Lisa Wallace of Wallace & Graham PA.

The case is In re: Camp Lejeune Water Litigation, case number 7:23-cv-00897, in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina.

Source: Law360

Beasley Allen Camp Lejeune Litigation Team 

The lawyers on the Camp Lejeune Litigation Team include Saima Khan, Wesley Merillat, Ryan Kral, Tucker Osborne, Travis Chin, Miland Simpler, Khadiga Carr, Connor Chase, Jeff Price, Elizabeth Walden and Elliot Bienenfeld. 

Rhon Jones, who heads our Toxic Torts Section, is heavily involved in all aspects of the litigation, including the Resolution Committee. Rhon is in leadership as a member of the Plaintiff’s Executive Committee. 

The lawyers on our litigation team are available and will be honored to work with other lawyers on a claim. They will also be available to answer any questions you may have about the litigation.

SOCIAL MEDIA LITIGATION

Alabama Social Media Case Against ByteDance

The State of Alabama prevailed in its first hurdle to hold social media giant ByteDance responsible for its addictive social media platform, TikTok.  Alabama filed a lawsuit on April 25, alleging that ByteDance exploits children by addicting them to its platform and lies about the safety of its platform. 

ByteDance filed a motion to dismiss seeking to test the sufficiency of the State’s legal claims.  Montgomery County Circuit Judge Monet Gaines denied ByteDance’s motion, allowing the State’s negligence, wantonness, and Deceptive Trade Practices Act claims to proceed. 

The State’s lawsuit alleges that the TikTok platform is engineered to keep minors endlessly scrolling and exposes them to content that promotes depression, eating disorders, self-harm, and drug use, as well as dangerous viral “challenges.”  TikTok’s user base is disproportionately made up of children. 

The negative effects of social media on youth mental well-being have caused emergency room visits for self-harm to skyrocket in Alabama, along with the incidence of major depression in teens in Alabama. Likewise, the incidence of major depressive episodes in youth have skyrocketed nationwide, from 8% of the 12-17 year olds in 2013 to 18.1% in 2023.

Additionally, the lawsuit reveals that TikTok’s safety measures, such as “Kids Mode” and “Restricted Mode,” are ineffective and easily bypassed, leaving children vulnerable to exploitation and harm, while TikTok does little to block inappropriate adult material.  

The First JCCP Personal Injury Bellwether Trial

Plaintiffs in the JCCP have achieved significant pre-trial victories and are now on the verge of trial. Judge Carolyn B. Kuhl denied nearly all defense motions to exclude plaintiffs’ expert witnesses while granting plaintiffs’ challenges to several defense experts. The court also rejected defendants’ summary judgment motions. As a result, the parties are now in final preparations for the first JCCP bellwether personal injury trial, set to begin on the 27^th of this month. 

The plaintiff in the first trial, a 20-year-old woman referred to as K.G.M., will proceed against Google (YouTube), Meta (Instagram), Snap (Snapchat), and ByteDance (TikTok). She alleges that specific design features of these platforms—including algorithmic content amplification, autoplay, infinite scroll, and notification systems engineered to maximize engagement—caused her to develop anxiety, depression, self-harm behaviors, and body dysmorphia during adolescence. Her case will test plaintiffs’ theory that these platforms are defectively designed and that defendants knew their products posed particular risks to young users.

Notably, executives from each defendant company will be required to testify, including Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, Head of Instagram Adam Mosseri, and Snapchat CEO Evan Spiegel. Mark Lanier of the Lanier Law Firm is lead trial counsel for K.G.M., supported by the Beasley Allen social media litigation team and coordinated trial teams from across the country. The JCCP is scheduled to try up to nine cases in 2026. 

The Broader Litigation Landscape

The Social Media JCCP in Los Angeles currently includes more than 3,200 personal injury cases filed by plaintiffs from 44 states. Defendants also face over 900 personal injury cases in the federal MDL in Oakland, California, along with lawsuits from more than 1,400 school districts and 12 local government entities. The first MDL bellwether trial—a school district case—is scheduled for June 2026. Multiple school district and attorney general trials are expected in the MDL throughout 2026. Meta will face additional trials in state courts, including actions brought by the Attorneys General of New Mexico and Tennessee.

This litigation represents a pivotal moment for holding social media platforms accountable for harms to children and adolescents. Beasley Allen lawyers, including Co-Lead Counsel for the JCCP and PSC member Joseph VanZandt, continue to press forward in this critical effort.

29 States Renew Push For Single Trial In Meta YouthHarm Lawsuit

Twenty-nine states are urging a California federal court to hold one unified trial in their lawsuit accusing Meta of designing Facebook and Instagram to addict and harm minors. The attorneys general contend that a single proceeding would be far more efficient than the nearly 20 separate trials Meta proposes, noting that all states rely on the same evidence and the same nationwide conduct.

The states say Meta has already benefited from consolidated pretrial coordination and is now seeking to create “delay and massive inefficiency” by forcing repetitive trials involving identical witnesses and facts. The states also told the court they have now identified another case—an action against Dish Network—where multiple attorneys general tried consumerprotection claims together in a single bench trial.

Although state laws vary slightly, the Attorneys General contend that those differences do not prevent a unified jury trial, especially since courts routinely hear consumerprotection claims with differing elements in the same case. They propose giving jurors clear packets outlining each state’s legal requirements.

Meta counters that asking one jury to apply nearly twenty legal frameworks risks confusion and prejudice. But the states maintain that the core issues are the same: whether Meta designed its platforms with addictive features—such as infinite scroll, autoplay, and reward systems—that harmed children’s mental and physical health.

U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers previously noted there is little precedent for trying so many states’ claims together, but also made clear she will not conduct 29 separate trials. It would appear the judge is telling all concerned that a multi-plaintiff trial will take place at a lesser number than 29 plaintiffs. 

The states are united in their efforts to hold Meta accountable and ensure children are not exploited by Big Tech.

The case is In re: Social Media Adolescent Addiction/Personal Injury Products Liability Litigation, case number 4:22-md-03047, in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California.

Source: Law360

Alabama Senator Works For AI Safeguards To Protect Minors

Alabama Senator Katie Britt is urging stronger protections around artificial intelligence chatbots, citing concerns that the technology can expose minors to harmful content and undermine parental oversight. Senator Britt highlighted reports from parents who say their children were influenced or isolated by AI systems, and she contended that companies should be required to implement meaningful safeguards.

Senator Britt is co-sponsoring the Guard Act, legislation that would prohibit AI companion tools for minors, mandate clear disclosure that chatbots are not human, and impose criminal liability on companies whose systems promote self-harm, violence, or other dangerous behavior. She emphasized that many of these protections could be implemented voluntarily by AI developers, but believes federal action is necessary because technology companies have historically prioritized profit over safety.

As a parent of two teenagers, Senator Britt also called for reexamining Section 230, the liability shield that protects social media platforms and, in some cases, AI companies from legal responsibility for user-generated content. She correctly contends that the current framework prevents meaningful accountability, particularly as online bullying, sextortion, and other digital threats continue to rise.

Senator Britt said the goal is to ensure minors are not exposed to risks that would be unacceptable in any physical setting and to create a system where technology companies are held responsible for the impact of their products on children.

Senator Britt is to be commended for taking the lead in this matter. All Americans should support the Senator in this critically important battle. 

Source: AL.com

The Beasley Allen Social Media Litigation Team

Joseph VanZandt, who leads our firm’s Social Media Personal Injury Litigation Team, is co-lead counsel for the Judicial Council Coordination Proceeding (JCCP) for the plaintiffs in California State Court. Joseph is also a member of the Plaintiffs Steering Committee in the MDL, helping lead the federal social media multidistrict litigation. Lawyers on the Beasley Allen Social Media Litigation Team are set out below.

Social Media Litigation Team

Joseph VanZandt (who heads the team) Jennifer Emmel, Suzanne Clark, Clinton Richardson, Sydney Everett, Davis Vaughn, Soo Seok Yang, James Lampkin, Seth Harding and Slade Methvin. Andy Birchfield, who heads our Mass Torts Section, also works with the team. He can be reached at 800-898-2034 or by email at [email protected].

GAMING LITIGATION

Roblox Predatory Gaming Cases Centralized To Northern District Of California; Gaming Addiction Cases Denied Centralization

On December 12, 2025, the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) granted consolidation of cases to the Northern District of California before Judge Richard Seeborg.  The petition was in response to a growing number of cases with minors or parents of minor children alleging sexual exploitation and, in some cases, sexual assault by child predators who targeted and groomed these minors through the highly popular gaming platform, Roblox.

The Panel ultimately found that the cases involve common questions of law and fact, particularly legal issues involving Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, the First Amendment, and arbitration.  The lawsuits assert multiple common product liability claims. It’s contended in the litigation that Roblox neglected to take basic steps to safeguard young users.  Some complaints also name Discord, a free communication platform, as a co-defendant, claiming it further enabled contact between predators and victims.

In contrast to the Roblox litigation, the video game addiction cases against other popular platforms, such as Minecraft and Fortnite, were denied centralization.  These cases allege that defendants sold and marketed video games with psychologically addicting features designed to addict minors.  In a JPML order dated December 10, 2025, the Panel determined that informal coordination was possible due to the overlap in plaintiffs’ counsel and the potential for the litigation not to be limited to certain key defendants. 

At Beasley Allen, our lawyers are committed to holding gaming companies accountable—not only for the harm caused by design practices that foster addiction, but also for their failure to protect young users from exploitation. Roger Smith, Chad Cook, Leighton Johnson, and Cade Crow, lawyers on our litigation team, are actively investigating and litigating video game addiction and predatory gaming cases on behalf of affected minors and their families.

VIDEO GAMING LITIGATION

National Legal Action Targets Video Game Addiction And Online Exploitation

An increasing number of lawsuits filed by parents across the United States allege that popular video games such as Fortnite, Roblox, and Minecraft are intentionally designed to be addictive, causing serious harm to children and adolescents. In response, a motion has been submitted to the Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) seeking to consolidate these cases into a single federal Multidistrict Litigation (MDL).

The JPML is scheduled to hear oral arguments on the video game addiction MDL petition on December 4th in Austin, Texas. This proposed MDL would centralize pretrial proceedings for the growing number of federal lawsuits, streamlining discovery and avoiding inconsistent rulings. A similar effort to coordinate related cases in California state courts has already been approved, resulting in a Judicial Council Coordinated Proceeding (JCCP) currently underway in the Los Angeles Superior Court.

Separately, Roblox Corporation is also facing a distinct MDL petition involving allegations of child sexual exploitation. These lawsuits claim that Roblox lacks adequate safety protocols, enabling predators to use the platform to groom, exploit, and initiate contact with minors—often leading to abuse that extends beyond the game itself. The JPML will also hear arguments on this exploitation-related MDL petition on December 4th.

These parallel legal efforts underscore the growing scrutiny of gaming platforms marketed to children and the urgent need for stronger industry safety standards and accountability.

At Beasley Allen, our lawyers are committed to holding gaming companies accountable—not only for the harm caused by design practices that foster addiction, but also for their failure to protect young users from exploitation.

MOTOR VEHICLE AND TRUCKING LITIGATION

Fuel Pump Explosion

Wyatt Montgomery, a lawyer in our firm’s Mobile, Alabama, office, is currently investigating catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases arising from vehicle-to-fuel-pump collisions that result in flash fires or explosions. Because of their complexity, these cases demand thorough technical analysis by lawyers who have multi-layered expertise in this litigation.

Successful handling of these claims requires meticulous scene investigation, including examination of the fuel dispensing equipment, emergency shutoff systems, and station layout. Critical evidence includes the vehicle’s mechanical condition, impact dynamics, and whether driver impairment or medical emergency contributed to the collision.

The NFPA Code for Motor Fuel Dispensing Facilities and Repair Garages establishes safety standards for gas station design, equipment installation, and emergency response systems. Compliance – or the lack thereof – often becomes central to establishing liability against station owners, operators, equipment manufacturers, or fuel providers.

These cases typically involve multiple defendants and require coordination with fire investigators, mechanical engineers, and fuel system experts. Potential liability theories include negligent station design, inadequate safety equipment, defective pump construction, and failure to maintain emergency shutoff mechanisms. 

Federal Review Puts Thousands Of Truck Driving Schools At Risk Of Closure

Nearly half of the nation’s truckdriving schools are facing possible shutdown after a sweeping federal review uncovered widespread failures to meet minimum training standards, putting thousands of students and the broader commercialdriver pipeline in limbo.

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, nearly 44% of the 16,000 truck driving schools listed nationwide could be forced to shut down after a federal review found widespread noncompliance with minimum training requirements. The department plans to revoke the certification of nearly 3,000 schools unless they meet federal standards within 30 days. Those schools must inform students that their certification is at risk. Another 4,500 programs were also warned they could face similar action. Schools that lose certification would no longer be able to issue required training certificates. It’s uncertain where the students from these schools will go. 

The crackdown is said to be part of what is labeled as a broader federal effort to tighten oversight of commercial driver licensing. This follows a deadly Florida crash involving a driver the Transportation Department says was not authorized to be in the United States. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said the actions target “illegal and reckless practices” that allow poorly trained drivers to operate large commercial vehicles.

In parallel, the Department of Homeland Security is auditing immigrant-owned trucking companies in California to verify driver qualifications and immigration status. Secretary Duffy has also threatened to withhold federal transportation funding from several states—including Minnesota, California, and Pennsylvania—unless they address alleged deficiencies in their commercial driver’s license programs.

Industry leaders largely support stricter oversight, saying many of the targeted schools function as “CDL mills” that promise training in just a few days without adequately preparing drivers. Legitimate programs typically require weeks of classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction. Trucking associations say that weak standards endanger public safety, though some groups warn that the actions could worsen the ongoing driver shortage.

Advocacy organizations representing immigrant and Sikh truck drivers say qualified drivers are being unfairly targeted based on citizenship or religion, fueling discrimination and harassment. They argue that safety reforms should be evidence-based and not undermine civil rights or the nation’s supply chain. While federal officials say the goal is improved safety and accountability, the review could significantly reshape truck driver training and licensing across the country.

Source: Alabama Daily News

The Georgia Commercial Driver’s License Manual Is An Essential Tool In Trucking Cases

The Georgia Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Manual is essential in the handling of trucking accident cases. A CDL is required to operate certain specialized vehicles, such as heavy or oversized vehicles. Commercial drivers must follow the rules in the CDL Manual or risk losing their license. 

Some key CDL infractions that may disqualify a driver from operating a commercial vehicle include alcohol related infractions, leaving the scene of an accident, committing a felony, violating an out-of-service order, improperly crossing a railroad, and serious traffic violations such as excessive speeding or reckless driving. 

Therefore, it is an important step in any trucking case for the involved lawyers to determine whether a CDL was required and, if so, whether the driver possessed one.

In addition, violations of the rules set out in the CDL Manual can also support claims against a commercial carrier for negligent hiring, retention, supervision, entrustment, or training of drivers. Commercial carriers have a duty to monitor their drivers and take actions to ensure safe driving, regardless of whether the driver in question received a legal citation. Evidence derived from driver monitoring systems, driver logs, or other similar documents can be used to show that a driver was violating the rules in the CDL Manual and that the commercial carrier knew or should have known about it. 

$220 Million Verdict In Fatal TireFailure Case

A New Mexico jury has returned a $220 million verdict against Michelin North America Inc. The company was found to be fully responsible for a fatal 2021 tire failure that caused a head-on collision, killing three members of a Texas family. After a 10-day trial, jurors concluded that a defective Michelin LTX M/S 2 tire on the family’s vehicle catastrophically failed, sending the car into oncoming traffic.

The crash claimed the lives of Laura Zamarippa, her mother Rosalva Marin, and 14-year-old Alexis Zamarippa. Discount Tire, also named as a defendant in the suit, was found to have no liability.

The jury awarded millions in mentalanguish and lossofcompanionship damages to surviving family members, but declined to issue punitive damages. Plaintiffs’ lawyers said internal Michelin documents—produced only after extensive litigation—were key to showing the company “gambled with people’s lives.”

Michelin, disputing the verdict, said the tire was old, damaged, and had logged roughly 70,000 miles. The company says it plans to pursue all legal avenues to overturn the decision.

The plaintiffs are represented by Wes Ball, Skip Lynch and Kyle Farrar of Kaster Lynch Farrar & Ball.

The case is Grano et al. v. Michelin North America Inc. et al., case number D-412-CV-2021-00197, in the Fourth Judicial District Court for San Miguel County, New Mexico.

Source: Law360

MOTOR VEHICLE RECALLS 

Motor Vehicle Recall Update

December 2025 was a critical month for automotive safety, with multiple manufacturers issuing recalls to address defects ranging from brake failures and fire hazards to software glitches and structural issues. These recalls underscore the importance of proactive maintenance and consumer awareness, as even relatively minor defects can lead to catastrophic outcomes if left unresolved. Below is a comprehensive roundup of the most significant recalls reported in December.

Key Recalls in December 2025

1. Honda and Acura – Software and Brake Pedal Defects

• Honda Accord Hybrid (2023–2025): Over 256,603 vehicles recalled due to a software programming error in the Integrated Control Module (ICM). This defect can cause sudden loss of drive power at highway speeds, leaving drivers stranded without warning.

Remedy: Software update and module inspection.  

• Acura TLX, MDX, and Honda Pilot (2021–2025): 259,033 vehicles affected by improperly secured brake pedal pivot pins, which can shift laterally and compromise braking ability.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace pedal assemblies.  

2. Ford – Brake Assist and Electrical Issues

• Ford Bronco, Expedition, F-150, Ranger, Lincoln Navigator (2025):
  Recall for loss of power brake assist due to malfunctioning electronic brake booster modules. This can extend stopping distances and increase crash risk.
  Remedy: Booster replacement; interim letters mailed mid-December. 
• Ford Escape & Lincoln Corsair Plug-In Hybrids (2020–2024):
  High-voltage battery defect may cause internal short circuits, risking battery failure or fire.

Remedy: Interim instructions to limit charging; full fix pending.  

3. Tesla – Sudden Power Loss

• Model 3 (2025) and Model Y (2026): 12,963 vehicles recalled for faulty battery contactors that can open unexpectedly, cutting drive power without warning.
  Remedy: Free replacement of contactors; letters began December 9. 

4. Nissan – Rearview Camera Failure

• Armada, Murano, Infiniti QX80 (2025–2026): Rearview camera image may fail to display, reducing visibility and increasing crash risk.

Remedy: Software update and camera system inspection. 

5. Mercedes-Benz – Pedestrian Warning Sound

• AMG EQE SUV 4MATIC (2024–2025): Software error prevents proper pedestrian warning sound at low speeds, violating FMVSS 141.
  Remedy: Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System software update.  

6. Volkswagen – Wheel and Battery Hazards

• Atlas, Atlas Cross Sport, ID.4 (2023–2026): Issues include incorrect wheel bolts and high-voltage battery defects that may cause fire or loss of drive power.
  Remedy: Dealer inspection and component replacement.  

7. BMW – Airbag Deployment Fault

• X5, X6, X7 (2026): Passenger-side airbag may fail to deploy properly due to instrument panel defects.

Remedy: Instrument panel trim replacement.  

8. Additional Recalls

• Genesis G90 (2023–2026): Sudden unintended braking risk.
• Bentley Bentayga Hybrid (2023): High-voltage battery overheating.
• Rivian EDV (2022–2025): Seat belt pretensioner cable damage.
• Jeep Grand Cherokee & Wrangler PHEV (2023–2025): Engine debris causing failure and potential fire.  

Why all of this matters to the public: These recalls collectively affect millions of vehicles across nearly every major automaker. Owners should check their VIN using the NHTSA Recall Lookup Tool and schedule repairs promptly. Ignoring notices can lead to severe safety risks, including crashes, fires, and system failures.

PRODUCT LIABILITY LITIGATION

The Handling Of Other Similar Incidents In Litigation

Handling product liability cases requires a certain level of experience and knowledge. While other similar incidents (OSIs) can prove helpful in litigation based on a number of legal theories, in product liability actions, OSIs are extremely important.  

That’s because the occurrence of other similar incidents holds great relevance, as this tends to make the existence of a defect more probable than it would be without the prior incidents occurring. Admission of OSIs as evidence is within the discretion of the trial court. Such evidence is admissible in product liability actions when it is offered to prove: 

• notice of a particular defect;

• the dangerousness of the defect; 

• the manufacturer’s ability to correct the defect;

• lack of safety for intended uses;

• the required standard of care;

• strength of the product; and/or

• that the defect caused the accident or injury alleged. See Hessen v. Jaguar Cars, Inc., 915 F.2d 641 (11 th Cir. 1990) 

However, before such OSI evidence can be admitted, it must be shown that the prior failures occurred under conditions substantially similar to those existing during the occurrence in question and that the prior incidents must not have occurred too remote in time from the incident in question. See Weeks v. Remington Arms, 733 F.2d at 1491.; Jones v. Otis Elevator, 861 F.2d 655, 662-663 (11 th Cir. 1988); Ray v. Ford Motor Co., 2011 WL 6749034 (M.D. Ala. 2011). 

It is worth noting that “substantially similar” does not mean identical. It is predicated on the defect at issue and “substantial similarity” among the variables relevant to the plaintiff’s defect theory. Smith v. Ingersoll-Rand Co., 214 F.3d 1235 (10 th Cir. 2000).

Gathering evidence related to OSIs during discovery is critically important, but it can be quite difficult. Our lawyers have learned that corporate defendants do not like to voluntarily turn over OSI information. Further, customer contact information is often redacted by the defendant, manufacturer or seller, making it a difficult task to identify the complaining customer, particularly if a Judge does not compel a defendant to turn the information over in discovery in a manner that is not redacted. 

As such, it is of great importance to press the defendant for the information. The defendant holds the keys to discovery of other similar incidents. This information is typically in the form of lawsuits against the defendant, warranty claims, recalls, governmental investigations (NHTSA, CPSC, etc.), property damage claims, and customer complaints. 

It’s important to begin establishing your library of OSIs early in litigation so you will be prepared at trial and so the defendant will know that you have an arsenal of other claims. This can help in negotiating a settlement in your case. Defendants will do everything to limit the scope of OSI information to be produced. These are a few tips on establishing your OSI library:

• Ask for OSIs in discovery, including but not limited to lawsuits, warranty claims, recalls, governmental investigations, property damage claims, and customer complaints. Ask for associated photographs, videos, expert reports, accident reports, product evaluation reports, and similar type documents.

• Ask for the information in an unredacted format. More likely than not, you will have customer complaints, warranty information, and property damage claims produced in a redacted format. There is case law that establishes if a customer complains to a company, their information is not considered private or confidential. Don’t let them hide behind privacy in getting this information.

• Don’t let the defendant limit your OSI request to just your product. If you are alleging a defect with an airbag, find out what other vehicles included that same airbag (see Takata airbag recall) and get that information. Don’t let the defendant limit you to your product if the component that is defective is used across product lines.

• Ask your expert. Your expert has likely had similar claims, and you can use them to establish that the claims are substantially similar. 

• Talk to other lawyers. Once you get lawsuit information in discovery, reach out to other lawyers whose cases you think you could meet the “substantial similarity” hurdle and get non-protected information from their case. Their clients can also be a good source for an OSI witness.

• Research claims, recalls and investigations with governmental entities (NHTSA, CPSC).

• Google! You will be amazed at what the internet will tell you about other lawsuits. From there, you can contact the appropriate people and gather the necessary documents.

• In discovery, request information on how claims, lawsuits, customer complaints, etc, are stored and gathered by your defendant. You need to make sure you have appropriately asked for OSI information from all sources in discovery.

• Ask for a corporate representative on OSI information.

• Take OSI witness depositions.

• Don’t wait until the eve of trial to start locating and contacting potential OSI witnesses. Start your library early!

• Fight, fight, fight to get the information you need and the scope of discovery you need to establish OSIs. By insisting on OSI information early and building your library, you can ensure that at the time of trial, you have OSIs to present and competent evidence to establish substantial similarity and have the incidents admitted at the trial of your case.

AVIATION LITIGATION

Wrongful Death Lawsuit Filed After Alabama Aviation Crash

What began as a routine flight ended in tragedy when a Piper PA-32R-301T aircraft crashed near Attalla, Alabama, on November 27, 2023, claiming the life of Charles Walker Pickering, Jr.

The law firms of Beasley Allen and Greene & Phillips have filed a wrongful death lawsuit in Baldwin County Circuit Court on behalf of Marcia Miller Pickering, Personal Representative of her husband’s estate.

The complaint names multiple defendants—Textron Inc., Textron Systems Corporation, Avco Corporation, Lycoming Engines, Champion Aerospace, Continental Aerospace Technologies, Sarasota Avionics, Anson Air, and LSA Services—alleging negligence in the design, manufacture, inspection, maintenance, and repair of critical engine components and the aircraft itself.

Mr. Pickering was en route from Tennessee to Alabama when the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of engine RPM. Despite declaring an emergency, the plane crashed into mountainous terrain minutes later. A Federal Aviation Administration investigation uncovered fractured gear assemblies and missing gear teeth in the magneto and idler gears—defects alleged to have caused the catastrophic engine failure.

The service providers failed to properly inspect and maintain the aircraft, overlooking critical issues with the left-hand magneto, crankshaft idler gear, and fuel pump idler gear assembly. These lapses created an unreasonable risk of harm and ultimately led to the fatal crash. 

Beasley Allen lawyer Mike Andrews, who leads our firm’s efforts in this case, says: 

This case is about accountability and safety. The complaint details significant mechanical failures that should never occur in an aircraft engine, and our investigation will focus on how and why these defects reached the cockpit. We intend to prove these allegations in court and help ensure no other family faces a tragedy like this because preventable defects were allowed to persist.

David Greene, a lawyer with Greene & Phillips, added:

Our client’s family deserves answers, and the aviation community deserves assurance that aircraft are designed, built, and maintained to the highest standards. We are committed to pursuing the facts and holding all responsible parties to account under Alabama law.

The suit brings claims under Alabama law, including:

• Product Liability under the Alabama Extended Manufacturers Liability Doctrine (AEMLD)

• Negligence and Wantonness in design, manufacture, and maintenance

• Wrongful Death

The plaintiff seeks punitive damages to hold all defendants accountable and deter similar conduct in the future. A jury trial has been requested. 

Mike Andrews from our firm, along with David Greene and Britt Bethea of Greene & Philips, represent the plaintiff in the case. 

Fatal Flight: Advocating For The Estate Of Tyler Perry Studios CEO

On December 6, 2024, the entertainment world and a loving family suffered a devastating loss. Steve Mensch, President and CEO of Tyler Perry Studios, died in a plane crash near Homosassa, Florida. The suddenness of Steve’s passing left his family, friends, and colleagues in shock, searching for answers and comfort.

Steve was more than a leader in the entertainment industry—he was a mentor, a friend, and a source of inspiration to many. His vision helped shape Tyler Perry Studios into a creative force, but it was his kindness and generosity that truly set him apart. Those who knew Steve remember his encouragement, his warmth, and his ability to bring people together.

The Accident

That evening, Steve was piloting a small aircraft on a personal flight when the plane struck power lines near U.S. Highway 98. The accident happened under clear skies and calm conditions. In an instant, a vibrant life was lost, and a family’s world was changed forever.

At Beasley Allen, we are honored to represent Steve’s widow as she seeks clarity and accountability in the wake of this tragedy. Working alongside Dalton Trammell of Trammell Injury Law, our goal is to support the Mensch family with compassion and determination, helping them navigate the difficult road ahead.

Our Experience in Aviation Cases

Aviation accidents are complex, and families deserve a team that understands both the technical and human sides of these cases. Beasley Allen has decades of experience helping families after aviation tragedies. We know how to work with investigators, analyze the facts, and pursue justice—always with the family’s well-being at the center of our efforts.

Beasley Allen Aviation Litigation Team

When tragedy strikes in the skies, victims and their families need more than sympathy—they deserve justice. Leading the charge in aviation litigation is Beasley Allen lawyer Mike Andrews. Mike, author of Aviation Litigation & Accident Investigation, is one of the Top 10 Aviation Attorneys named by the National Trial Lawyers Association. Mike has represented families impacted by some of the most devastating aviation disasters, including the Boeing 737 Max 8 crashes. Currently, Mike and the Beasley Allen Aviation Litigation Team are advocating for justice on behalf of more than 125 families affected by the Air India Flight 171 crash. 

Aviation crashes often make headlines due to their devastating impact, but behind every incident is a story of preventable failure. Whether you are seeking answers after a catastrophic airline disaster or a loved one was injured in a helicopter or small plane crash, an experienced aviation accident lawyer can help navigate the legal complexities and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Mike Andrews, LaBarron Boone, and Dana Taunton, from our Personal Injury & Products Liability Section, compose our Aviation Litigation Team. Other Beasley Allen lawyers in the Section assist the team with individual cases as needed. 

EMPLOYMENT LITIGATION

Holding Employers Accountable – Navigating Sexual Assault Claims In The Workplace

Sexual assault in the workplace appears to occur more frequently than expected and is one of the most devastating violations an employee can experience. Beyond the immediate trauma, victims often face retaliation, isolation, and career derailment. As plaintiff lawyers, we have a critical role in ensuring accountability for the perpetrator and for the employer who failed to protect its workforce.

Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, employers are required to keep the workplace free from harassment and assault. When an employer ignores complaints, fails to investigate, or allows a hostile environment to continue to exist, the employer can be held liable. However, these cases present unique challenges. 

Victims of sexual assault in the workplace experience a unique vulnerability in that they have not only been violated, but when deciding how to protect themselves, they are also likely to face the possibility of losing their source of income, making it even more important that their case is handled diligently. Here are some tips on what to look for in these cases:

• Clear evidence of assault or harassment.

• Employer knowledge and failure to act.

• Significant damages, including emotional distress and lost wages.

• Any evidence of retaliation from the reporting of an incident by anyone.

• Any prior incidents and the response.

Damages in these cases can include compensatory and punitive awards, as well as injunctive relief requiring policy changes and training. Beyond monetary recovery, these cases often drive positive systemic changes to make the workplace safe for everyone.

As lawyers, if you encounter a client with a workplace sexual assault claim, don’t hesitate to act or ask for help. Early involvement can make the difference between justice and silence. Partnering with experienced employment counsel ensures victims receive the advocacy they deserve. Our firm is equipped to handle these claims with the tenacity and talent necessary to get the results for the clients and to help alter the workplace to a safer environment for all employees.

The Beasley Allen Employment Litigation Team

   Lawyers on our firm’s Employment Litigation Team continue to handle a number of employment-related litigation cases around the country. They also handle the firm’s Qui Tam Litigation (Whistleblower cases). Whistleblowers can also have a retaliation claim related to their False Claims Act (FCA) claim. Quite often, an employee as a whistleblower will be the “original source” of an FCA claim. 

Our Employment Litigation Team has had tremendous success in both employment cases and qui tam cases. Currently, the team is pursuing some high-profile cases in courts around the country. We will write more on the FCA litigation in the Whistleblower Section.

Whistleblower Litigation

Aesculap Pays $38.5 Million To Settle FCA Claims

Aesculap Implant Systems LLC, a Pennsylvania-based medical device company,

has agreed to pay $38.5 million to settle claims that it knowingly sold knee replacement

devices that failed at a higher-than-acceptable rate. False claims were being made to Medicare and Medicaid. The U.S. Government claimed that Aesculap’s VEGA Knee System was prone to coming loose from patients’ bones, often requiring additional surgeries, and that the company concealed these issues from doctors and regulators. The company also allegedly failed to properly track or report adverse events related to the device.

The settlement also addresses claims that Aesculap paid unlawful incentives to a Georgia orthopedic surgeon to encourage the use and recommendation of the VEGA Knee System. These incentives included consulting payments, free international travel, and entertainment, which violated the Anti-Kickback Statute. Such actions undermine transparency and patient safety, according to federal officials.

In addition to the civil settlement, Aesculap entered a non-prosecution agreement for distributing two medical devices, the ELAN-4 Air Drill and the JS Series SterilContainer S2, without the required FDA clearance. An employee responsible for the FDA process failed to submit the necessary documents and forged clearance records, leading to the illegal distribution of these devices.

The settlement includes the resolution of claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the FCA by two whistleblowers, John Marien and Michael McGee. The qui tam provisions of the FCA allow a private party to file an action on behalf of the Government for false claims. Under the FCA, whistleblowers receive 15% to 25% of the proceeds in cases that the Government joins. The whistleblowers will receive nearly $4.5 million of the proceeds from this settlement.

If you are aware of fraud being committed against federal or state governments, your reporting is confidential and protected by the FCA. Under that same statute, as a whistleblower, you could be rewarded for reporting the fraud you are aware of or have witnessed. 

The Beasley Allen Whistleblower Litigation Team  

Beasley Allen lawyers continue to represent whistleblowers in litigation around the country. Claims continue to be made against multiple bad actors in the corporate world. The widespread Whistleblower litigation has been increasing nationwide at a rapid pace. However, there has recently been strong opposition to the litigation instigated and carried out by some powerful forces in Corporate America. Beasley Allen lawyers are watching this activity closely.

If you are aware of fraud being committed against the federal or state governments, you could be rewarded for reporting the fraud.  If you have questions about whether you qualify as a whistleblower or you need help with a case, a Beasley Allen lawyer will be glad to make a free and confidential evaluation of your claim at 800-898-2034 or by email.   

Lawyers on our Whistleblower Litigation Team are listed below. You can contact Michelle Fulmer, Director of our Consumer Fraud & Commercial Litigation Section. Members of the team include: Lance Gould, Larry Golston, Lauren Miles, Leon Hampton, Jessi Haynes and Tyner Helms.

Workplace Litigation

Lockout – Tagout In The Workplace

One of the primary ways that employers are required to protect their workers in the workplace is through the implementation of lockout-tagout (LOTO). LOTO is regulated by OSHA and MSHA (along with other government agencies). The OSHA regulations can primarily be found at 29 CFR 1910.147.

LOTO is intended to protect workers from hazardous energy, primarily during the maintenance and repair of equipment in an industrial facility. According to OSHA: 

The LOTO standards establish the employer’s responsibility to protect workers from hazardous energy. Employers are also required to train each worker to ensure that they know, understand, and are able to follow the applicable provisions of the hazardous energy control procedures….

If an outside contractor, such as an electrician, comes onto the property of the employer, the employer should also make sure that the contractor understands the LOTO standards and the importance of implementing those standards. While most industrial contractors may have their own training in this regard, it is essential that employers insist on the application of LOTO within the employer’s facility in order to protect the facility’s employees as well as the contractor’s employees.

As an example, if a piece of equipment has an electrical failure, the employer may call an outside commercial electrician to fix or repair the equipment. In that event, it is essential that everyone involved be protected from electrical energy while the machine is being repaired. This may result in the electrician and/or the employer going to a main control box, turning off all breakers to that piece of equipment, and then placing locks on the breaker box to prevent anyone from accessing the electrical panel while the machinery is being repaired.

Another common application of LOTO is when maintenance work is being done on a piece of machinery. All sources of power (electrical, mechanical, kinetic, etc.) must be blocked and locked out so that the machine will not and cannot be started up while someone is working on or in the equipment.

Unfortunately, on occasion, an employer or a contractor may try to skirt the LOTO standards by not disconnecting all energy sources and by not locking out the power source. When this occurs, machinery or electrical components can be activated, resulting in injury to people working around the equipment. It is essential that employers train their employees and all contractors on the need for LOTO in the industrial setting.

Class Action Litigation

Toyota-Aisin 8-Speed Transmission Class Action Lawsuit

Our firm represents plaintiffs and Class members in a proposed class action lawsuit against Toyota Motor Corporation, Toyota Motor North America, Inc., Toyota Motor Sales, Inc. (Toyota), Aisin Corporation, Ltd., and Aisin World Corp. of America, Inc., (Aisin) filed in the Eastern District of New York. 

Our plaintiffs allege that millions of Toyota’s most popular Toyota and Lexus models, equipped with Toyota-Aisin 8-Speed Automatic Transmissions and Torque Converters (Transmission Assemblies), are designed, manufactured, sold and leased with a defect that causes the vehicles’ Transmission Assemblies’ components and hydraulic fluid to fail prematurely in ordinary operating conditions (i.e., the Transmission Defect or the Defect). 

The Transmission Assemblies are installed in some of Toyota’s most popular Toyota and Lexus models: 2017-present Toyota Highlander, 2024-present Toyota Grand Highlander, 2018-2024 Toyota Camry, 2017-2020 Toyota Sienna, 2019-2022 Toyota Avalon, 2019-present Toyota RAV4, 2023-present Lexus RX350, 2021-present Lexus ES250, 2019-present Lexus ES350, 2022-present Lexus NX250, 2022-present Lexus NX350, and 2024-present Lexus TX350 (the Class Vehicles).

The Transmission Assembly serves a critical role in the function of Class Vehicles,

transferring engine rotational power to the wheels. The Transmission Assemblies must be designed and manufactured with components that are tolerant of high torsion, heat, and shear stress and must be immune to internal component dislodgment or breakage. 

The Transmission Assemblies’ control software must also be programmed to protect the integrity of internal components and prevent premature degradation and catastrophic failure. 

According to defendants, the Transmission Assemblies were designed and programmed to improve the Class Vehicles’ fuel efficiency, reduce torque loss, and provide smooth and quick acceleration.

However, plaintiffs allege the Transmission Assemblies are not adequately designed and/or manufactured with adequate materials and software, causing the Class Vehicles’ Transmission Assemblies to suffer premature degradation and failure unexpectedly and without warning. These alleged defective vehicles present a serious safety risk to the safety and health of vehicle occupants and others on the road.

Our plaintiffs contend that Toyota and Aisin knew of the Transmission Defect as early as 2016, based on its pre-release design and testing of the Transmission Assemblies. Toyota and Aisin have not recalled the Class Vehicles for the Transmission Defect, nor have defendants determined its root cause or offered an extended warranty for all Class Vehicles. 

Instead, Toyota issued technical service bulletins (TSBs) offering limited warranty extensions for certain 2017-2018 Toyota Highlander and Toyota Sienna vehicles, and certain 2021 Toyota Highlander, Toyota Camry and Toyota Avalon vehicles equipped with Transmission Assemblies built during specific manufacturing periods, and excluded all other Class Vehicles. Some consumers have reported experiencing symptoms of the Transmission Defect after receiving the repair.

The plaintiffs and the proposed Classes are represented by the following Beasley Allen lawyers: Dee Miles, Demet Basar, Clay Barnett, Mitch Williams, Dylan Martin and Trent Mann.

The Toyota-Aisin Transmission case is Natale, et al., v. Toyota Motor Corporation, et al., and is filed in the United States District Court for Eastern District of New York. 

Auto Defect Class Actions

Our firm has a long-standing reputation for holding corporations accountable and securing justice for consumers. The recent $150 million settlement in the case against General Motors is just one example of our dedication to holding powerful companies accountable. In this case, our litigation team helped thousands of vehicle owners recover compensation for engine defects—achieving a payout that exceeded the jury’s original award.

COMMERCIAL BUSINESS LITIGATION

Netflix Sued By Consumers Over Planned Warner Bros. Deal

Netflix is facing a new consumer class-action lawsuit that aims to block its proposed $72 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery’s studio and streaming businesses, including HBO Max.

The lawsuit was filed last month by a Warner Bros.–owned HBO Max subscriber who contends that the deal would reduce competition in the U.S. streaming market and ultimately hurt consumers. The complaint claims the merger could lead to higher subscription prices and fewer choices for viewers.

Consumer lawsuits like this are allowed under federal antitrust laws and are separate from any action regulators may take. However, such cases are complex and difficult. Significant legal hurdles have to be overcome in order to be successful.

The lawsuit alleges that HBO Max is one of Netflix’s closest competitors and that acquiring Warner Bros. would give Netflix enormous control over popular franchises such as Harry Potter, DC Comics, and Game of Thrones. It also points to Netflix’s history of raising subscription prices despite competition from other major streaming platforms.

The deal was announced after a competitive bidding process. It’s facing intense scrutiny from U.S. regulators and lawmakers. Adding to the uncertainty, Paramount Skydance had launched a competing $108.4 billion bid for Warner Bros. Discovery, prompting the company’s board to review that offer.

Bathaee Dunne LLP, the law firm handling the case, has previously brought antitrust lawsuits against major entertainment companies, including a case accusing Disney of harming competition in live-streamed television markets. Disney denied wrongdoing in that case but agreed to settle the case for an undisclosed amount.

Warner Bros. Discovery is not named as a defendant in the lawsuit. Netflix denies liability and claims that the case has no merit. 

The case is Michelle Fendelender vs. Netflix, U.S. District Court, Northern District of California, No. 5:25-cv-10521.

Source: Reuters

Generic Drugs Price Fixing

AT&T and a number of other companies are suing a group of pharmaceutical companies over alleged generic drug price-fixing. The plaintiff companies claim they paid out billions of dollars for medication reimbursements to the drugmakers as part of its employee health plans when they could have spent far less if the drugs weren’t subject to anticompetitive pricing.

The litigation is taking place in multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the Pennsylvania federal court. It’s alleged that dozens of pharmaceutical companies entered into illegal “fair share” agreements that deprived consumers of bargain-priced drugs. It’s alleged in the complaint: 

Since at least mid-2009, the defendants have deprived the public of the benefit of that bargain by entering into a series of illegal ‘fair share’ agreements to allocate customers and markets, engage in bid rigging, and fix the prices of hundreds of pharmaceutical products. These agreements, which are illegal per se under federal and state antitrust laws, led to staggering price increases for critical medications and forced consumers and their health plans to shoulder the cost of defendants’ illegal activities.

It’s alleged that the drug companies conspired to raise generic medication prices by 1,000%. For example, AT&T said that from 2013 to 2014, the cost of the drugs increased exponentially. Another allegation is that the average market price for a bottle of 500 tablets of doxycycline, a common antibiotic in circulation for decades, shot up to $1,849 in 2014, from $20 in 2013, according to the complaint. Plaintiffs claim the only possible explanation for these price increases is the result of the anticompetitive activity among the defendants. It’s alleged: 

The goal of this conspiracy was clear — to increase defendants’ profits at the expense of purchasers of generic drugs, including plaintiff, by minimizing and thwarting true market competition, which would have driven down the prices of generic drugs. 

U.S. District Judge Cynthia Rufe, who presides over the MDL, recently approved $58 million in settlements between the pharmaceutical companies and end-payer plaintiffs involved in the litigation. It’s believed that more settlements are likely.

Lawyers in our firm have seen misconduct with these generic companies, not only in the private sector, but also in dealing with Medicaid and Medicare. Our firm has been fortunate to have represented several state Medicaid Agencies over the years involving fraudulent pricing. We successfully recovered over $1.5 billion for those agencies. However, the misconduct seems to have continued in the private sector. We will continue to monitor this important litigation.

Insurance Litigation


Class Certification Granted In Liberty Mutual Rental Coverage Dispute

A Massachusetts federal court has certified a multistate class action against Liberty Mutual Personal Insurance Company, advancing claims from thousands of drivers who say their rental car benefits were cut short after their vehicles were totaled. The plaintiffs, Diane Watts, Anthony Watts, and Adam Pizzitola, allege that Liberty Mutual’s policies promised up to 30 days (or $900) of rental coverage, but the insurer routinely ended benefits after just seven days, regardless of how long it actually took to replace the vehicle.

U.S. District Judge Brian E. Murphy found that the central issue—how the policy language should be interpreted—was common to all class members and best resolved together, not through individual lawsuits. The judge granted class certification for monetary claims under Rule 23(b)(3), but denied class-wide injunctive relief, noting that the main remedy sought was damages. Judge Murphy also left open the possibility of revisiting certification in the future because the court had not resolved the policy’s meaning concerning coverage.

This case reflects a broader trend in insurance litigation, where courts are asked to decide if insurer practices can be challenged on a class-wide basis. In this case, the judge determined that Liberty Mutual’s alleged uniform practice—terminating rental benefits without assessing the reasonable replacement time—was a common issue suitable for class treatment. Judge Murphy rejected arguments that individual circumstances would overwhelm the case, emphasizing the uniformity of the policy language and Liberty Mutual’s approach.

This ruling by Judge Murphy is a win for consumers seeking to hold insurers accountable for standardized practices that may violate policy terms, allowing policyholders to pursue claims that might otherwise be too small to litigate alone. It also highlights the importance of clear policy terms and fair claims handling.

Source: Law360

MASS TORTS LITIGATION

FDA Approves Brain Tumor Warning For Depo-Provera

On December 12, 2025, the FDA approved a new safety warning for the popular injectable birth control medication Depo-Provera concerning the increased risk of developing a meningioma.  Although most often benign, meningiomas can create a myriad of neurological issues, such as seizures, strokes, and migraines.  Many, if not most, meningiomas require lifelong monitoring, and some may not be operated on depending on its location in the brain.

Depo-Provera’s updated label is in large part due to the uptick in lawsuits filed against the medication since studies established a strong link between prolonged Depo-Provera use and meningiomas.  The cases were consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) in February 2025 in front of Judge Casey M. Rodgers in the Northern District of Florida.

Beasley Allen lawyers Roger Smith and Mary Cam Raybon are honored to advocate for women affected by Depo-Provera use and who later suffered a cerebral or spinal meningioma.  These lawyers have filed several cases in the MDL, with more to come.

GLP1 Litigation Update

Recent developments mark a significant step forward in litigation involving GLP-1 Receptor Agonists medications and claims of vision loss caused by non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION).  Plaintiffs allege that medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Saxenda, and Trulicity caused or contributed to permanent vision loss due to NAION. 

On December 15, 2025, the U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) issued a transfer order centralizing NAION cases involving GLP-1 medications into a new multidistrict litigation, MDL No. 3163, in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. The MDL will be overseen by Judge Karen S. Marston, who is also presiding over the related GLP1 MDL, which relates to claims involving gastrointestinal injuries. The Order transfers 21 actions from multiple districts. 

In December, New Jersey state courts established two separate Multicounty Litigations (MCLs) for GLP-1 claims. The MCLs cover both distinct injuries: gastrointestinal complications and NAION vision loss. Both litigations are assigned to Judge Gregg A. Padovano in Bergen County. 

These coordinated proceedings represent meaningful progress for individuals seeking justice for serious injuries linked to GLP-1 medications. Beasley Allen continues to actively monitor these developments and remains committed to advocating for those harmed by these drugs. 

Study Finds Dupixent Has 30 Times The Reporting Rate Of The Average Drug

A recent pharmacovigilance study evaluated whether Dupixent—an IL4Rα inhibitor widely used for atopic dermatitis—may be associated with the onset or progression of cutaneous Tcell lymphoma (CTCL). Using the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) from 2017 through late 2023, researchers identified more than 181,000 adverseevent reports involving dupilumab, including 606 describing neoplasms.

Dupixent demonstrated a 30-fold increase in the proportional reporting ratio (PRR) for CTCL, significantly higher than background rates for all other medications. This signal was strongest among men aged 45 to 65. Known adverse effects—conjunctivitis, eosinophilia, and arthralgia—showed expected elevations in PRR, supporting the validity of the methodology. When adjusting for inflated PRRs in lowreporting conditions, CTCL remained one of Dupixent’s leading safety signals.

To explore biological plausibility, the authors analyzed bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing datasets. They found altered expression of IL4Rα and IL13RA1 in CTCL tissue and in the epidermal layers of atopicdermatitis biopsies. Keratinocytes exhibited the most pronounced divergence in receptor expression, suggesting a potential mechanistic overlap between pathways affected by Dupixent in atopic dermatitis and those relevant to CTCL biology.

The study proposes that IL13 receptor blockade may inadvertently increase local IL13 levels, potentially unmasking or accelerating CTCL in susceptible individuals. However, the authors emphasize that FAERS data are inherently limited and cannot establish causation. Additional controlled studies are needed to determine whether Dupixent contributes directly to CTCL development or progression.

Source: The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology

TOXIC TORT LITIGATION

Farmer Blames Parkinson’s On Paraquat Exposure

Alabama farmer Mac Barlow began noticing tremors, balance problems, and weakness about a decade ago, symptoms he initially attributed to aging after decades of hard farm work. Mr. Barlow, who grew peanuts, soybeans, and corn on his family farm in the Opp area, was later diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. His condition is linked to long-term exposure to paraquat, a powerful weed killer he used for nearly 40 years.

Mr. Barlow started using paraquat in the 1980s to quickly clear fields without disturbing the soil, often spraying it once or twice a year over hundreds of acres. Despite wearing protective clothing and following training on restricted pesticides, he said the chemical regularly blew back onto him while spraying, leaving a strong odor on his clothes and hair. He stopped using paraquat only after learning about research suggesting a link between the chemical and Parkinson’s disease.

Now 70, Mr. Barlow is among more than 6,200 people nationwide suing paraquat manufacturers Syngenta and Chevron, alleging the companies knew or should have known about the neurological risks but continued to market the product as safe. Paraquat is banned in more than 70 countries but remains legal in the United States. Syngenta denies any causal link, citing decades of studies it says do not support claims that paraquat causes Parkinson’s.

Mr. Barlow’s condition has steadily worsened, limiting his ability to farm and forcing his family to sell land to cover medical costs. Once active and independent, he now struggles with daily tasks, declining mobility, and depression. His wife, Miriam, has become his primary caregiver despite her own health challenges.

Mr. Barlow says his hope is that this case will lead to greater awareness and change, potentially protecting other farmers from similar harm. We are honored to represent this man in his quest for justice. Beasley Allen lawyers Wesley Merillat, Khadiga Carr, Tucker Osborne, and Elizabeth Walden represent Mr. Barlow in his case. 

Source: AL.com

Paraquat Continues To Spread Far-Reaching Harm—Yet Its Use Persists. Why?

Paraquat is among the most acutely toxic herbicides still in use today. Its dangers are so well documented that more than 70 countries worldwide have banned Paraquat outright. Yet in the United States, paraquat’s footprint has expanded. Trade data show that U.S. imports have increased over the past decade, even as the global market for the chemical contracts. This divergence raises an unavoidable question: why does paraquat remain embedded in American agriculture when its safety and health risks are so well known?

The human cost of paraquat exposure is not borne equally. Farmworkers—many from immigrant and historically marginalized communities—and their families shoulder the greatest burden. Exposure occurs not only through direct application, but also through drift, contaminated clothing, and proximity to treated fields. These risks are not theoretical; they are lived realities repeatedly documented through community testimony and public-health reporting. 

Epidemiological studies have long linked paraquat exposure to severe and irreversible outcomes, including Parkinson’s disease. Of particular concern is the growing body of evidence connecting occupational exposure to an increased risk of Parkinson’s, a progressive neurological disorder with no cure.

The COVID-19 pandemic added a troubling layer to this already grim picture. Paraquat is known to cause permanent lung damage through inhalation, while COVID-19 has demonstrated an ability to attack multiple organ systems with long-term effects. Emerging research and clinical observation suggest that COVID-19 can exacerbate Parkinson’s symptoms, accelerating physical decline and compounding neurological and respiratory damage. 

This intersection is not theoretical. A member of Alianza Nacional de Campesinas shared his cousin’s story: a pesticide applicator for more than 30 years across New York and Florida, diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at age 55—later linked by physicians to long-term paraquat exposure. After contracting COVID-19, his preexisting lung damage left him especially vulnerable. The virus intensified his Parkinson’s symptoms and led to a partial lung collapse. Today, this man suffers from severe coughing fits, frequent hospitalizations, and relies on daily medication and a cane to walk.

Why then does paraquat use persist? Researchers point to the “pesticide treadmill”—a cycle of chemical dependency fueled by aggressive marketing from multinational agrochemical corporations. As examined in “Designed to Kill: Who Profits from Paraquat?”, manufacturers have promoted paraquat as indispensable, discouraging alternatives and reinforcing overuse.

Long-term studies tell a different story: sustainable farming practices can be both effective and profitable. Yet no powerful entity profits from widely sharing that truth. Instead, financial incentives favor a status quo that prioritizes short-term gain over public health. Paraquat’s continued use is not rooted in scientific uncertainty. The data is clear, the harms devastating, and the global consensus evident. The remaining question is how many more lives must be altered before the United States recognizes that some risks are simply too great to tolerate.

Source: Designed to Kill: Who Profits from Paraquat?

Connecticut Court Sets 2028 Start For Zantac Bellwether Trials

Bellwether trials in the Connecticut statecourt Zantac litigation are now scheduled to begin in March 2028, following a new order from Waterbury Superior Court Judge W. Glen Pierson. The first trial—drawn from a pool of colorectal cancer cases—will start jury selection on March 14, 2028.

Two additional bellwether groups are also set:

• Gastric and stomach cancer cases beginning September 5, 2028
• Prostate cancer cases beginning January 30, 2029

Judge Pierson also directed the parties to brief whether up to five plaintiffs may be tried together in a single bellwether proceeding.

The Connecticut litigation, including claims brought last fall by plaintiff Robert Prior and others, alleges that Zantac and its generic form, ranitidine, degraded into the probable carcinogen NDMA and caused various cancers. These upcoming bellwether trials are expected to shape the trajectory of the broader statecourt proceedings.

The plaintiffs are represented by Craig A. Raabe and Robert A. Izard of Izard Kindall & Raabe LLP.

The case is Prior et al. v. Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals Inc. et al., case number UWY-CV25-6090693-S, in the Waterbury Judicial District of the Connecticut Superior Court.

Source: Law360

Judge Allows Birth Defect Lawsuits Against Lockheed Martin To Proceed

A Florida federal judge has ruled that Lockheed Martin Corp. must face lawsuits from three families who claim chemical contamination from a Lockheed research and development facility caused birth defects in their children.

U.S. District Judge Roy B. Dalton Jr. denied Lockheed’s request for summary judgment, allowing the families’ claims to move forward. Judge Dalton also upheld the testimony of the plaintiffs’ expert witness, neonatologist Dr. David Warburton, rejecting Lockheed’s attempt to exclude his causation report.

Judge Dalton said Warburton relied on epidemiological research, animal and laboratory studies, and biologically plausible explanations to conclude that exposure to the chemicals—perchloroethylene, trichloroethylene, and styrene—could cause the types of birth defects alleged. The judge ruled that plaintiffs are not required to prove a precise chemical dose to establish causation.

Judge Dalton found Warburton’s analysis thorough, noting his careful review of study design, sample sizes, and the effects of both individual chemicals and chemical mixtures. He called the report “among the strongest” and said it met the legal standards for expert testimony.

At least one parent of each affected child worked near Lockheed’s Orlando facility. The children’s conditions include clubfoot and brain abnormalities, Klinefelter syndrome, and cleft palate. The court also rejected Lockheed’s argument that only maternal exposure was relevant, citing evidence that paternal exposure can damage sperm and lead to birth defects.

However, Judge Dalton dismissed claims brought by the parents of a fourth child, finding the expert testimony did not sufficiently rule out genetic causes.

The broader lawsuit, filed in 2021 by 67 plaintiffs alleging cancer, birth defects, and neurological disorders linked to the facility, has largely been dismissed, leaving only a small number of claims still active.

The families are represented by the Morgan & Morgan law firm.

The case is Henderson et al. v. Lockheed Martin Corp. et al., case number 6:21- cv-01363, in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida.

Source: Law360

CONSUMER CORNER

Other Lawyers Can Partner With Us

Beasley Allen is proud to have built over the years lasting partnerships with referring and co-counsel lawyers throughout the country. These relationships are grounded in mutual respect, shared values, and a commitment to achieving justice for those who need it most. At our firm, we welcome the opportunity to collaborate with other lawyers on cases involving catastrophic injury, wrongful death, and corporate misconduct. 

Our four litigation teams bring decades of experience, a proven track record, and the resources necessary to take on even the most powerful defendants. Working with other referring firms, Beasley Allen lawyers have helped in concert to secure meaningful outcomes for clients while driving real change in public safety and corporate accountability.

Beasley Allen stands apart through its unwavering commitment to accountability and client-focused representation. Our lawyers and support staff leverage decades of experience in trucking, defective auto products, workplace, and premises liability cases to deliver exceptional results. Every case is unique, and we work closely with clients and co-counsel to develop personalized strategies that align with specific needs and objectives. 

This collaborative approach ensures that corporations and institutions are held responsible for their actions while providing clients with the strongest possible advocacy.

When you refer a case to Beasley Allen, you can trust that your client will be treated with compassion, professionalism, and the highest level of legal representation. All of us at Beasley Allen are available to support your efforts and help you achieve the best possible result for your clients. When we work together, a greater impact can be reached. You can go to the Section of this report designated “The Structure of Beasley Allen and Cases Handled By the Firm” to learn which litigation Section of the firm to contact. You will also see the many types of cases Beasley Allen lawyers handle. 

THE STRUCTURE OF BEASLEY ALLEN AND CASES HANDLED BY THE FIRM

The Structure Of Beasley Allen Is Designed To Work For Clients 

Beasley Allen is organized in a structure that benefits the clients we represent. The firm operates in five separate sections: four litigation sections and one administrative section. The separate litigation sections concept has worked extremely well for the firm. It has definitely benefited Beasley Allen clients. Lawyers have also brought about needed national changes in product and workplace safety.  

Since our beginning over 45 years ago, Beasley Allen lawyers have handled all sorts of civil litigation for plaintiffs. The Administrative Section supports the four Litigation Sections that could be described as “mini-firms” within Beasley Allen. Those four Litigation Sections are the Mass Torts Section, the Toxic Torts Section, the Consumer Fraud & Commercial Litigation Section, and the Personal Injury & Products Liability Section.  

Each litigation section has a team of lawyers and support staff working closely together, creating efficiency and case proficiency within each section. Successful section performance leads to better firm performance overall, allowing us to expand our resources and enabling firm growth. We believe our approach has allowed us to help more of those who need it most, year after year.  

The Personal Injury & Products Liability Section 

Cole Portis heads our Personal Injury & Products Liability Section with Sloan Downes serving as the Director of the Section. The section handles Auto Accidents, Auto Products, Aviation Accidents, Defective Tires, Negligent Security, On-the-Job Injuries, Premises Liability and Truck Accident cases.  There are 26 lawyers in the Section.

The Mass Torts Section 

Andy Birchfield heads our Mass Torts Section. Melissa Prickett serves as the Section’s Director. With over 50 years of combined legal experience, Andy and Melissa lead the firm’s largest section in medical devices, medication, and other practice areas. The section currently handles cases involving Acetaminophen, Hair Relaxers, Kratom, NEC Baby Formula, Ozempic, Social Media, Predatory Gaming, Video Game Addiction, Ultra-Processed Foods, Dupixent, Depo-Provera and Talcum Powder. There are 40 lawyers in the Section.

The Toxic Torts Section 

Rhon Jones leads our firm’s Toxic Torts Section with Section Director Tracie Harrison’s assistance. The section focuses on toxic exposure cases. Recent cases involve Camp Lejeune Water Contamination and Paraquat.  There are 19 lawyers in the Section.

The Consumer Fraud & Commercial Litigation Section 

Dee Miles is the Section Head of our Consumer Fraud & Commercial Litigation Section. Michelle Fulmer is the Director of the Section. The section currently handles cases involving Business Litigation, Class Action, Consumer Protection, Social Media, Securities cases, Civil & Human Rights, Employment Law and Whistleblower cases. There are 16 lawyers in the Section.

The Administrative Section 

The Administrative Section consists of several departments: Accounting, Operations, Human Resources (HR), Information Technology (IT), and Marketing. Michelle Parks serves as the Director of Accounting, while Michelle Fulmer is the Director of Operations. Kimberly Youngblood holds the position of Executive Director, overseeing HR, IT, and Marketing. 

Since we reorganized the firm’s structure in 1998, Beasley Allen’s record speaks for itself. The revised structure – without any doubt – has contributed greatly to our firm’s success. Section Heads and Directors have been able to concentrate on the volume of cases in their section. They quickly recognize when additional resources are needed.  

Lawyers have been able to focus on cases within their sections. This has allowed them to achieve favorable results. There are major differences in each section, both as to the law, regulations and industry requirements.  

The efficiency and teamwork generated by the sections concept has resulted in our firm being recognized as one of the best litigation firms in the country. This has been for the benefit of the folks we represented.  

The Latest Look At Case Activity At Beasley Allen 

Our BeasleyAllen.com website provides the latest information on the current case activity at Beasley Allen. The list can be found on our homepage, the top navigation, or the practices page of the website (BeasleyAllen.com/Practices/). The following are the current case activity listings for the Beasley Allen Litigation Sections.  

Practices

• Business Litigation 
• Civil & Human Rights 
• Class Actions 
• Consumer Protection 
• Employment Law 
• Medical Devices 
• Medication 
• Personal Injury 
• Product Liability 
• Toxic Exposure 
• Whistleblower Litigation 

Cases 

The cases in the categories listed below are handled by lawyers in the appropriate Litigation Section at Beasley Allen. The list can be found on our homepage, on the top navigation, or on the Cases page of our website (BeasleyAllen.com/Recent-Cases/).

• Acetaminophen 
• Auto Accidents 
• Auto Defect Class Actions
• Auto Products 
• Aviation Accidents 
• Camp Lejeune  
• Defective Tires 
• Depo-Provera 
• Dupixent
• Hair Relaxers 
• Kratom 
• NEC Baby Formula 
• Negligent Security  
• On-the-Job-Injuries 
• Ozempic 
• Paraquat 
• Predatory Gaming
• Premises Liability
• Social Media  
• Talcum Powder 
• Truck Accidents  
• Ultra-Processed Foods 
• Video Game Addiction

We will give a brief explanation below for each of the listed categories:

• Acetaminophen
  Beasley Allen lawyers handle cases of mothers who took acetaminophen while pregnant and gave birth to a child later diagnosed with autism or ADHD. Cases also include children treated with the drug during the first 18 months of life who developed autism or ADHD. 
• Auto Accidents
  Our lawyers handle life-altering and deadly automobile accident cases caused by defective products and driver negligence. Crashes may involve single vehicles, multiple vehicles, motorcycles, recreational vehicles, transit vehicles or trucks. 
• Auto Defect Class Actions
  Our team pursues auto manufacturers and their suppliers for vehicle defects that create safety risks for occupants and others on the road. We seek to correct defects not addressed by recalls or warranty extensions through class action litigation.
• Auto Products
  Our team will meticulously investigate your accident, examine vehicles for defects or product liability issues, identify responsible parties, file lawsuits, manage legal documents, and strive to maximize your compensation.
• Aviation Accidents
  Lawyers investigate aviation accidents resulting from mechanical failures, human error and other causes. Crashes injure hundreds, sometimes thousands, of victims onboard aircraft and on the ground every year.
• Camp Lejeune 
  Our firm handles cases of victims exposed to contaminated water supplies at U.S. Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987. Exposure to toxic water caused serious injuries, including cancer, adult leukemia, Parkinson’s disease, major cardiac birth defects and others.
• Defective Tires
  Defective tires can lead to automobile accidents resulting in injury or even death. Beasley Allen lawyers investigate these accidents caused by blowouts, tread separation and other tire failures. 
• Depo-Provera
  We are investigating cases for individuals who were given Depo-Provera shots for at least 1 year and developed cerebral or spinal meningiomas.
• Dupixent
  We are investigating the link between Dupixent and Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma (CTCL)— a group of rare blood cancers that affects the largest organ in your body — your skin.
• Hair Relaxers
  Our lawyers handle cases for women injured by toxic chemicals in hair relaxers. Women who frequently use hair relaxers may develop uterine cancer, endometriosis, uterine fibroids or breast cancer.
• Kratom
  Beasley Allen is investigating cases of serious adverse effects experienced by individuals who have consumed products containing Kratom.
• NEC Baby Formula
  Our firm investigates cases of premature babies who developed necrotizing enterocolitis after consuming infant formulas manufactured by brands like Enfamil and Similac. Necrotizing enterocolitis is an intestinal disease that can lead to long-term complications and even death.
• Negligent Security 
  Establishment owners and managers are responsible for maintaining safe premises. When someone is injured or killed as a result of negligent security, Beasley Allen lawyers hold owners and managers accountable.
• On-the-Job-Injuries
  We investigate workers’ compensation cases, often finding that defective industrial products are to blame for workers’ injuries or deaths. Quite often, the incident results in a product liability case. Industrial products include manufacturing, farming, construction or other types of equipment.
• Ozempic
  We investigate cases of gastroparesis, intestinal obstruction, deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism related to the use of diabetes and weight loss drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro.
• Paraquat
  Our firm handles cases for victims injured by paraquat, a popular herbicide linked to Parkinson’s Disease that has been banned or partially banned in at least 92 countries. Paraquat remains legal in the U.S., risking the health and safety of workers on over 2 million U.S. farms.
• Predatory Gaming
  Online gaming has become one of the most popular forms of entertainment for children and teens. We are investigating claims involving child exploitation in gaming and predatory design that puts profits over children’s safety.
•  Premises Liability
  We investigate cases every day where negligence from property owners or occupiers has created dangerous conditions. Catastrophic premises cases involve serious injuries that occur on someone else’s property. These cases
• Social Media 
  Our youth are facing a mental health crisis caused by social media addiction. Beasley Allen advocates for these youth who have suffered harms, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body dysmorphia, ADD/ADHD, self-harm and suicide.
• Talcum Powder
  Beasley Allen handles cases for women diagnosed with ovarian cancer after regular use of talcum powder. For decades, companies like Johnson & Johnson knew that talcum powder might cause cancer but failed to warn consumers. 
• Truck Accidents 
  Our firm handles accident cases involving tractor-trailers, commercial vehicles and other large trucks. These cases often involve multiple, well-funded defendants and complex insurance issues.
• Ultra-Processed Foods
  We are actively investigating cases where ultra-processed foods are linked to type 2 diabetes and NAFLD, especially in individuals diagnosed before age 18.
• Video Game Addiction 
  We are investigating cases of video game addiction caused by companies intentionally designing games to be highly addictive, especially for minors, using psychological tactics.

Resources to Help Your Practice

The leadership team at Beasley Allen understands the importance of sharing resources and collaborating with our fellow trial lawyers throughout the country. We are committed to investing in resources that can help our other trial lawyers in their work. We have compiled a list of our most popular resources for those seeking to work with us or seeking information to help their law firm with a case. 

Co-Counsel E-Newsletter 

Beasley Allen sends out a Co-Counsel E-Newsletter specifically tailored with lawyers in mind. It features case updates, highlights key victories achieved for our clients, and informs readers about the firm’s latest resources. You can get it online by visiting our website, BeasleyAllen.com, and clicking the Articles link. 

Recalls Update 

We try our best to stay current on the latest significant consumer recalls. Contact our JLB Report Team at [email protected] if you have any questions or believe we may need to include a recall. 

The Jere Beasley Report 

We also consider The Jere Beasley Report a service to lawyers and the general public. We provide the Report at no cost monthly. Visit our website, BeasleyAllen.com and click the Articles link. 

TRIAL TIPS FOR LAWYERS

Mastering Voir Dire: Why Jury Selection Shapes The Entire Trial

Many believe jury selection to be one of the most unpredictable parts of a trial, but it’s also one of the most important. Some studies suggest most cases are essentially won or lost during voir dire. Actually, that tracks with what our lawyers see in the courtroom quite often. 

Voir Dire is a lawyer’s first real chance to connect with jurors, read the room, and start shaping how potential jurors think about fairness, accountability, and your client’s story. It’s not about perfection; it’s about being present, paying attention, and creating space for honest conversation. 

The following are a few tips from Larry Golston that he has found make a real difference when picking a jury. Larry is a highly successful lawyer in our Consumer Fraud & Commercial Litigation Section. Let’s see what he has for you. 

Studies show that jury selection can determine the outcome of a case—some estimates suggest 85% of cases are won or lost during this stage. For plaintiff trial lawyers, jury selection or voir dire is often the first and best chance to shape the jury. It’s not only about striking biased jurors but also about planting seeds of fairness and empathy.  A well-conducted voir dire can soften skepticism about lawsuits, humanize your client, and ensure jurors are open to awarding damages when justified. Below are some considerations that I believe are vital in being successful in the jury selection process. 

Top Five Tips for Successful Jury Selection Trial Lawyers:

• Engage jurors early and openly. Voir dire isn’t just about asking questions—it’s about creating dialogue. Encourage jurors to speak freely rather than giving yes/no answers. A silent jury is a missed opportunity.

• Uncover bias with thoughtful, non-threatening questions. Ask about attitudes toward lawsuits, damages, or personal injury claims. For example, “How do you feel about people bringing lawsuits for pain and suffering?” This helps reveal hidden prejudices.

• Listen actively and observe body language. Jurors may reveal more through tone, hesitation, or facial expressions than their words. Careful listening and observation can identify subtle biases.

• Build rapport and trust. Jurors are more likely to be candid if they feel respected. Use approachable language, avoid legal jargon, and show genuine interest in their perspectives. Winning trust in voir dire sets the stage for trial.

• Frame issues strategically. Voir dire is also about educating jurors. Use analogies or simple examples to explain bias and fairness. This primes jurors to see your client’s case in a balanced way.

Beasley Allen Lawyer And Employee Spotlights

Lisa Bruner

Lisa Bruner, a paralegal in our Mass Torts Section, has been with Beasley Allen for over 23 years. Working under the direction of Andy Birchfield, head of the section, and Leigh O’Dell, a lawyer in the section, Lisa focuses on Johnson & Johnson Talcum Powder cases. 

When a talc case heads to discovery or trial, Lisa jumps in—coordinating with experts, prepping reports, organizing exhibit and witness lists, and handling all the behind-the-scenes details that keep things running smoothly. She’s also the go-to for setting up war rooms and making sure everything’s ready for trial, wherever it happens. Her work in the J&J litigation has been tremendous and critically important to our success. 

Outside of work, Lisa shares that she is all about family. She and her husband, Darrell, have two daughters and a son-in-law. Her oldest daughter recently got married and lives in Tuscaloosa, while her youngest is pursuing a master’s in public health in Athens, Georgia. Lisa loves traveling and planning family trips to new places. She’s active with her church, helping out in the local community.

When asked what she likes best about Beasley Allen, Lisa didn’t hesitate: it’s her attorneys, Andy and Leigh. She says they inspire everyone around them, fighting for their clients and supporting other firms as well. Lisa adds: 

Their dedication makes Beasley Allen a special place to work—and I am proud to be part of the team.

We are blessed to have Lisa at Beasley Allen. She does great work and is a definite asset to the firm. 

Holly Busler

This month, we feature Holly Busler, who is celebrating over 25 years at Beasley Allen. Holly serves as a paralegal to Lance Gould, a lawyer in the firm’s Consumer Fraud & Commercial Litigation Section. Under the direction of lawyers in the section. Holly investigates cases, communicates with clients, conducts research, prepares pleadings and discovery, organizes documents, maintains files, and assists Lance and other lawyers in preparing for hearings and trials.

Holly and her husband, Trent, have been married for 17 years and live in Wetumpka. Their family includes four children: Taylor (26), Drew (24), Pruitt (15), and Georgia (9). With most of their extended family nearby, the Buslers enjoy spending quality time together. In her spare time, Holly enjoys crafting, sewing, making decorations, woodworking, and designing shirts, among other creative outlets.

When asked what she likes best about working at Beasley Allen, Holly did not hesitate. She says: 

My favorite thing about working at Beasley Allen is the people I work with. We are one big team and always there to help each other.

Holly’s dedication, hard work, and team spirit are true assets to the firm. We are blessed to have Holly at Beasley Allen.

Melody Demasi

We are pleased to introduce Melody Demasi as one of our newest Of Counsel lawyers in our Personal Injury & Products Liability Section. Melody is in our Atlanta office. She brings extensive experience and a client-centered approach to our team, helping survivors and their families navigate the challenges that follow catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases.

With a strong background in trucking, premises liability, and products liability litigation, Melody is dedicated to ensuring clients receive justice and the full compensation they deserve. She prepares each case with relentless attention to detail and is recognized for her ability to connect with juries, craft persuasive arguments, and respond creatively to new developments. Melody earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Kentucky and her law degree from Emory University School of Law.

Beyond her legal work, Melody gives back to the community by coaching mock trials at Emory and participating in Relay for Life. Away from the courtroom, she enjoys playing tennis, cheering on the Falcons, and spending quality time with her family.

Melody says she values Beasley Allen’s steadfast commitment to justice and its collaborative culture, which she believes empowers attorneys to create meaningful change for clients every day. We are fortunate to have Melody join the firm. She will definitely be an asset. 

Tim Fletcher

Tim Fletcher is an Intake Specialist in the firm’s Toxic Torts Section. Having nearly three years with the firm, Tim plays a vital role on the “front line.” He fields incoming calls, completes questionnaires, and performs other preliminary work that makes clients’ claims ready for lawyer review. Tim’s responsibilities also include answering client questions, following up on claims, and making outbound calls to collect necessary paperwork and confirm contact information, all to ensure efficient communication and progress of cases.

Tim is the second oldest of seven siblings and a proud father of four, as well as a grandfather to nine. He and his partner, Angela Cleveland, have been together for over 20 years. Outside of work, Tim enjoys attending church, watching football (“War Eagle!”), bowling, going to the Biscuits’ home games, and caring for plants and flowers.

What Tim says he likes best about working at Beasley Allen is being part of the Toxic Torts Section, which is a source of genuine pride for him. He also values serving as the face of the firm for new clients, providing support from start to finish, and enjoys collaborating with both clients and internal teams.

Tim is a hard worker who is dedicated to the clients he serves. We are fortunate to have this man at Beasley Allen.

Jessi Haynes

Jessi Haynes began her journey with Beasley Allen as a law clerk in 2015 and became a lawyer the following year. After a brief move closer to her hometown, she returned to Beasley Allen in 2021 to help launch the firm’s Mobile office. She is a principal in our Consumer Fraud & Commercial Litigation section, where her work encompasses areas such as employment discrimination, qui tam (whistleblower) actions, data breach class actions, and antitrust claims.

A graduate of Troy University with a degree in criminal justice and a minor in leadership studies, Jessi earned her J.D. from Faulkner University’s Thomas Goode Jones School of Law, where she served as Student Bar Association Vice President and Dean Fellow. Jessi and her husband, Bobby, live in Lillian, Alabama, with their two daughters, Maddie Kate and Marley. Outside the office, she enjoys reading, volunteering through her church, and spending time with family and friends in the lively season of raising little ones.

When asked what she loves most about Beasley Allen, Jessi points to the firm’s culture. She says: 

Our leadership models servant leadership, prioritizing people over prestige and integrity over convenience. We’re unwavering about doing the right thing for the right reason, even when it’s unpopular or costly. That combination fosters courage, compassion, and excellence.

Jessi is a talented lawyer who works hard for her clients. She is totally dedicated to the cause for justice and to the best interests of the firm and her clients. We are fortunate to have Jessi, a definite asset, at Beasley Allen.

Special Recognitions

New Principals At Beasley Allen

We are proud to announce the promotion of four lawyers to principal. Together, they embody the values that define Beasley Allen and our mission of helping those who need it most.

Wesley Merillat

Wesley Merillat joined Beasley Allen in 2024. He currently focuses on the Camp Lejeune and Paraquat litigation.

Every case and every client is naturally and intentionally personal to Wesley. Some of his standout cases include the East Palestine Train Derailment, where he served on the Plaintiff Steering Committee. In a case against Small Smiles, a pediatric dental chain accused of performing unnecessary procedures, he helped negotiate a settlement of over $40 million to support the affected children. Additionally, he has represented numerous sexual assault victims, securing settlements and judgments exceeding $30 million.

Stephen Mulherin

Stephen Mulherin joined Beasley Allen’s Atlanta office in 2023. He focuses his practice on products liability, premises liability, and trucking cases.

One of Stephen’s notable cases involved representing the family of a woman who tragically lost her life on a highway entrance ramp due to a truck negligently parking on the shoulder. Despite several challenging obstacles, Stephen was part of the Beasley Allen team that successfully resolved the case, providing the family with a sense of justice and closure. This case remains significant to him because it honored the woman’s life and ensured her family could move forward with a sense of peace.

Tucker Osborne

Tucker Osborne joined Beasley Allen in 2019. He currently works on toxic exposure cases involving Roundup, Paraquat, and Camp Lejeune.

One of his notable cases includes working on the opioid litigation for the State of Alabama. This experience allowed him to gain a deeper understanding of the issue. He also had the opportunity to speak with individuals who were impacted in various ways while learning how to best advocate for them from experienced attorneys. He felt that he was able to make a positive impact on the lives of Alabamians.

Mary Cam Raybon

Mary Cam began her journey at Beasley Allen Law Firm in May 2019 as a law clerk before being promoted to attorney. She is currently handling cases involving Acetaminophen, GLP-1 drugs (e.g., Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus, Mounjaro), Depo-Provera, video game addiction, ultra-processed foods, and dietary supplements like kratom.

Mary Cam is dedicated to supporting individuals who are disabled or have become disabled due to defective drugs, medical devices, or consumer products. Her passion lies in advocating for their rights and ensuring they receive the help they need. One of her most notable cases involved diet pill litigation that settled confidentially. It was the first case she followed from start to finish.

34 Beasley Allen Lawyers Named to 2025 Mid-South Super Lawyers, Rising Stars

Super Lawyers has recognized 34 lawyers from Beasley Allen for their outstanding achievements and peer recognition for the 2025 Mid-South Region. Fourteen of those lawyers were named to the 2025 Super Lawyers list. Beasley Allen’s Super Lawyers include:

• Greg Allen
• Ben Baker
• Andy Birchfield
• LaBarron Boone
• Mike Crow
• Kendall Dunson
• Lance Gould
• Rhon Jones
• Dee Miles
• Leigh O’Dell
• Cole Portis
• Roger Smith
• Gibson Vance
• Frank Woodson

In addition, 20 lawyers were included on the Super Lawyers “Rising Stars” list, which recognizes the top up-and-coming lawyers 40 years old or younger who have been practicing for 10 years or less. Beasley Allen’s 2025 Mid-South Super Lawyers Rising Stars are:

• Evan Allen
• Ryan Beattie
• Tiffany Birley
• David Diab
• Ryan Duplechin
• Paul Evans
• Ali Hawthorne
• Jessi Haynes
• Tyner Helms
• Warner Hornsby
• Gavin King
• Aigner Kolom
• Ryan Kral
• Dylan Martin
• Stephanie Monplaisir
• Tucker Osborne
• Clinton Richardson
• Davis Vaughn
• Elizabeth Walden
• Mitch Williams

The lists of Super Lawyers are published in Super Lawyers Magazines, a Thomson Reuters business, and leading city and regional magazines across the country. The Super Lawyers Magazines also feature editorial profiles of lawyers who embody excellence in the practice of law. For more information, you can go to superlawyers.com.

Jere Beasley Honored With The Martin Luther King Jr. American Dream Award

This story, originally reported by Yellowhammer News, details the Alabama Democratic Conference’s presentation of its Martin Luther King Jr. American Dream Award to attorney Jere Beasley, recognizing his long record of publicinterest legal work and civic leadership.

Jere Beasley, founding partner of the Montgomery-based law firm Beasley Allen, has been awarded the Alabama Democratic Conference’s (ADC) Martin Luther King Jr. American Dream Award, an honor recognizing individuals whose work reflects Dr. King’s legacy of justice, equality, and service to the public good.

The award highlights Beasley’s longstanding commitment to justice and community empowerment, values deeply rooted in the principles championed by Dr. King. The recognition underscores Beasley’s impact not only across Alabama but nationally, through decades of legal advocacy tied to civil rights and consumer protection.

Throughout his career, Beasley has focused on representing individuals, workers, and communities—often taking on powerful corporate interests in cases involving public safety, fraud, and corporate misconduct. His work has aimed to hold institutions accountable while giving a voice to those who might otherwise go unheard.

The ADC’s American Dream Award is presented to Alabamians whose service demonstrates a dedication to justice, equal opportunity, and the broader public good.

Beasley’s career, the organization said, exemplifies those ideals through both legal advocacy and civic leadership.

In a public announcement, Beasley Allen expressed appreciation for the honor, noting that Beasley’s work continues to be guided by an “unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and community empowerment.”

The award serves as recognition of a career defined by advocacy, integrity, and a lasting impact on communities across Alabama and beyond.

I am honored to have received this award. It’s one that I will always cherish. Being recognized with an award associated with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is as special as it gets. But I consider the award really being made to Beasley Allen, including all of our lawyers and employees. 

Source: Yellowhammer News

Former Attorney General Eric Holder Honored With 2025 Shuttlesworth Award

Former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder Jr. was awarded the 2025 Fred L. Shuttlesworth Human Rights Award last month during the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute’s 33rd Anniversary Celebration.

The Shuttlesworth Award is BCRI’s highest honor and recognizes national and international leaders who advance justice, equality, and human dignity. Holder accepted the award before an audience that included Civil Rights Foot Soldiers, students, educators, elected officials, and community and business leaders.

In his remarks, Holder reflected on the legacy of Reverend Fred L. Shuttlesworth, noting his pivotal role in dismantling segregation and confronting state-sanctioned violence during the Civil Rights Movement. He emphasized that justice is never guaranteed and must be actively defended, particularly in today’s political climate. Holder highlighted the courage of ordinary citizens who marched, organized, and persisted despite facing years of brutality, stressing that their actions reshaped the nation and set a standard for continued civic engagement.

Holder also pointed to his own public service as an extension of that legacy. As Attorney General under President Barack Obama, he focused on Civil Rights enforcement, voting rights protection, sentencing reform, marriage equality, and addressing systemic inequities within the justice system. He continues this work as chairman of the National Democratic Redistricting Committee, advocating for fair electoral maps and equal access to the ballot.

Previous recipients of the Shuttlesworth Award include Birmingham’s first Black Mayor Richard Arrington, Civil Rights attorney Fred Gray, the late Congressman John Lewis, actor and activist Danny Glover, and Equal Justice Initiative founder Bryan Stevenson, as well as Reverend Fred L. Shuttlesworth.

Source: Birmingham Times

CLOSING OBSERVATIONS

Senate Confirms Alabama Supreme Court Justice Bill Lewis As Federal District Judge

The U.S. Senate has confirmed Alabama Supreme Court Associate Justice Bill Lewis to serve as a Judge on the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Alabama. His nomination was approved with bipartisan support in the Senate.

Judge Lewis was confirmed by a 58–40 vote, with six senators who caucus with Democrats joining Republicans. Alabama Senators Tommy Tuberville and Katie Britt both praised the confirmation, highlighting Lewis’s judicial experience and record of public service.

Sen. Tuberville congratulated Judge Lewis in a social media post, saying he looked forward to the “excellent work” Lewis will do as a federal district judge. Sen. Britt, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, said Lewis has served Alabama with “distinction” throughout his career. Katie observed: 

Justice Lewis’ extensive judicial experience, deep understanding of the law, and lifelong dedication to serving the people of our state make him an outstanding choice for the federal bench. 

I am proud to support his confirmation.

Judge Lewis will fill the vacancy left by Andrew Lynn Brasher, who was elevated to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit in 2020. The Middle District of Alabama includes Montgomery and Dothan.

Gov. Kay Ivey appointed Lewis to the Alabama Supreme Court in May to fill a vacancy. Before joining the high court, he served on the Alabama Court of Civil Appeals and as presiding judge of the 19th Judicial Circuit in Elmore County. Earlier in his career, Lewis was a senior partner at the Lewis Law Firm, which he founded in 2006, and previously worked as an assistant district attorney in the 19th Judicial Circuit.

FAVORITE BIBLE VERSES

Tim Fletcher, one of our staff members who is featured in this month’s issue, shares his favorite Bible verses with us. Tim submits three of his favorite verses. The first verse serves as a reminder that God’s giving of his Son (Jesus) was presented as the ultimate act of love, a sacrifice for all people.

For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son. Whoever puts his trust in God’s Son will not be lost but will have life that lasts forever. John 3:16

The second verse is a call to action to build strength in the Lord, stand against evil spiritual forces & others, maintaining spiritual vigilance through prayer.

This is the last thing I want to say: Be strong with the Lord’s strength. ¹¹ Put on the things God gives you to fight with. Then you will not fall into the traps of the devil. ¹² Our fight is not with people. It is against the leaders and the powers and the spirits of darkness in this world. It is against the demon world that works in the heavens. ¹³ Because of this, put on all the things God gives you to fight with. Then you will be able to stand in that sinful day. When it is all over, you will still be standing. ¹⁴ So stand up and do not be moved. Wear a belt of truth around your body. Wear a piece of iron over your chest which is being right with God. ¹⁵ Wear shoes on your feet which are the Good News of peace. ¹⁶ Most important of all, you need a covering of faith in front of you. This is to put out the fire-arrows of the devil. ¹⁷ The covering for your head is that you have been saved from the punishment of sin. Take the sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God.¹⁸ You must pray at all times as the Holy Spirit leads you to pray. Pray for the things that are needed. You must watch and keep on praying. Remember to pray for all Christians. Ephesians 6:10-18

Tim says the following last verse is a powerful, expressing deep trust in God as a source of strength, protection, and help, leading to immense joy and praise.

The Lord is my strength and my safe cover. My heart trusts in Him, and I am helped. So my heart is full of joy. I will thank Him with my song. Psalms 28:7

MONTHLY REMINDERS

We continue to include this section of “reminders” in the Report. That’s because we believe each of the reminders is very important. The reminders are from key individuals and are for all of us at Beasley Allen. The reminders are to be applied in the workplace, in our social life, and at home. In addition to all of us at Beasley Allen, we send these reminders to all who get the Report each month. All persons in a leadership role, including those persons in government at every level, will benefit by reading the quotes and applying the lessons learned in their daily lives.  

If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. 

2 Chronicles 7:14

All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing.

Edmund Burke

Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.

There comes a time when one must take a position that is neither safe nor politic nor popular, but he must take it because his conscience tells him it is right.

The ultimate tragedy is not the oppression and cruelty by the bad people but the silence over that by the good people.

Martin Luther King, Jr. 

Get in good trouble, necessary trouble, and help redeem the soul of America.

Rep. John Lewis speaking on the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama, on March 1, 2020

Ours is not the struggle of one day, one week, or one year. Ours is not the struggle of one judicial appointment or presidential term. Ours is the struggle of a lifetime, or maybe even many lifetimes, and each one of us in every generation must do our part.

Rep. John Lewis on movement-building in Across That Bridge: A Vision for Change and the Future of America

The opposite of poverty is not wealth; the opposite of poverty is justice.

Bryan Stevenson, 2019

I see in the near future a crisis approaching that unnerves me and causes me to tremble for the safety of my country….corporations have been enthroned and an era of corruption in high places will follow, and the money power of the country will endeavor to prolong its reign by working upon the prejudices of the people until all wealth is aggregated in a few hands and the Republic is destroyed.

U.S. President Abraham Lincoln, Nov. 21, 1864 

PARTING WORDS

As we enter a new year, it’s good to reflect back on the past year and recognize areas of our lives, both at work and at home, where we can get better. A self-analysis is in order. 

We are blessed at Beasley Allen to be at a firm that does things right and for the right reason. We also strive for perfection in every area of our work. I am convinced we all do our best to reach that standard in all that we do. 

God has blessed Beasley Allen, and that has made it possible for our clients to receive justice. We are totally committed to that happening. There are many reasons why this happens and will continue to happen. 

We at Beasley Allen have our priorities in the proper order. We put God first and our families next, followed by our clients. When that priority order is followed, it means our clients will, in fact, receive the justice they deserve. It has also allowed our firm to bring about many needed safety changes in Corporate America. 

As we enter the New Year, my prayer is that God will bless America and all of its people.  

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