A Boston Jury Delivers a Strong Message as J&J’s Legal Troubles Grow
A Massachusetts jury recently awarded $8 million to an 84-year-old woman who developed mesothelioma after decades of using Johnson & Johnson’s baby powder. The verdict adds to the mounting pressure on J&J, which continues to face tens of thousands of lawsuits from people who say they were harmed by asbestos-contaminated talcum powder products. It also comes at a time when the company is under fire for trying to discredit scientific research that links talc use to deadly diseases like mesothelioma and ovarian cancer.
At the Ferrell Law Group, we represent individuals across the country who were diagnosed with asbestos-related illnesses after using cosmetic talcum powder. If you or a loved one is facing cancer linked to talc exposure, our attorneys are ready to help you pursue the compensation and accountability you deserve.
Jury Holds Johnson & Johnson Responsible for Decades of Harm
In the case that just concluded in Boston, the plaintiff—Janice Paluzzi—was diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma in 2021. Her illness was tied to lifelong use of Johnson & Johnson baby powder on herself and her seven children. Her attorneys presented evidence that the company knew its talcum powder was contaminated with asbestos, but continued to market it as safe for decades.
The jury agreed. Their $8 million award sends a clear message: companies that put families at risk and hide the truth must be held accountable.
Paluzzi’s case is just one of more than 60,000 talc-related claims pending nationwide. Verdicts like hers are a powerful reminder that justice is possible, even against one of the world's largest corporations.
J&J’s Attempts to Silence Scientific Evidence Rejected by Medical Journal
In addition to courtroom losses, Johnson & Johnson is facing strong criticism for its efforts to suppress peer-reviewed research. In May 2025, attorneys representing the company requested that the editors of the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine retract a study linking mesothelioma cases to the use of cosmetic talc.
The study, authored by Dr. Jacqueline Moline, has been widely cited in talc litigation. It documented dozens of mesothelioma cases among individuals whose only known asbestos exposure came from personal use of talcum powder.
J&J alleged that the study was flawed and launched a legal campaign against Dr. Moline, accusing her of fraud and product disparagement. However, a judge dismissed the case, and the journal recently reaffirmed its decision to keep the study published after conducting an independent review.
This is an important development. It reaffirms the scientific consensus that talcum powder, when contaminated with asbestos, can cause mesothelioma—and it protects the right of researchers to publish findings that may not align with a corporation’s bottom line.
J&J’s Bankruptcy Maneuvers Keep Failing, Lawsuits Move Forward
Over the past several years, Johnson & Johnson has attempted three times to resolve talcum powder litigation through bankruptcy—a strategy that would limit the amount of compensation victims could recover. In March 2025, a federal judge rejected the company’s third attempt, which had included an $8 billion settlement offer.
The court found that J&J was not in financial distress and had proposed protections for third parties, such as retailers and subsidiaries, who had not filed for bankruptcy themselves.
This ruling means that the more than 60,000 pending lawsuits—including claims for both ovarian cancer and mesothelioma—can proceed individually in court or as part of multidistrict litigation. It also provides victims with a clearer path to pursue full compensation, rather than being forced into a one-size-fits-all payout under bankruptcy.
What This Means for Victims of Talcum Powder Exposure
The recent verdict in Massachusetts and the rejection of J&J’s bankruptcy filing are significant steps forward for those seeking justice. Courts and juries are listening to the evidence and siding with people who were unknowingly exposed to dangerous products for decades.
Even if you’re unsure how or when you were exposed to asbestos, our legal team can help investigate your case. At the Ferrell Law Group, we understand the science behind these claims and have the experience and resources to fight back against corporate legal teams.
We’re currently reviewing talcum powder claims for individuals who:
- Used talc-based products like Johnson’s® Baby Powder or Shower to Shower® for at least one year
- Have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, mesothelioma, or another asbestos-related illness
- Received their diagnosis within the statute of limitations in their state
Even if you have a history of smoking or other risk factors, you may still be eligible for compensation.
We Take These Cases Personally, And We Don’t Back Down
At the Ferrell Law Group, we don’t shy away from high-stakes litigation. Our team has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for clients harmed by asbestos exposure, dangerous products, and toxic substances. We handle every case with compassion, urgency, and an unshakable commitment to getting results.
You don’t have to go through this alone. If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with cancer after using talcum powder, contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case and guide you through your legal options—at no cost to you unless we win.
"Mr. Ferrell represented me in my asbestos lung cancer case. They were extremely helpful in explaining the process and were knowledgeable and professional when I called for updates. I was very pleased with the compensation that Mr. Ferrell got for me. I extend my gratitude to Mr. Ferrell and his staff for their excellent representation of me." — Lynn C., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐