What Are Roundup Lawsuits?

Roundup lawsuits are legal claims filed against Bayer (which acquired Monsanto in 2018) alleging that exposure to the glyphosate-based herbicide Roundup caused users to develop non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and other serious health conditions. These mass tort cases have resulted in some of the largest settlements in U.S. legal history.

The litigation began after the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified glyphosate as 'probably carcinogenic to humans' in 2015. Since then, thousands of lawsuits have been filed nationwide, including many in Missouri, where Monsanto was headquartered before its acquisition. Missouri law firms specializing in these cases work to demonstrate that manufacturers failed to warn consumers about potential health risks associated with the product.

How Roundup Law Firms Handle Cases

Missouri law firms that handle Roundup cases typically operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning clients pay nothing upfront and attorneys only collect fees if they secure compensation. This arrangement makes legal representation accessible to those who might otherwise be unable to afford it.

The legal process begins with a free consultation where attorneys evaluate the potential client's case based on factors such as duration of Roundup exposure, medical diagnosis, and timing of symptoms. If the case proceeds, lawyers gather medical records, employment history, and product usage documentation to build a compelling case.

These specialized firms often have dedicated teams of researchers, medical experts, and legal professionals working together. They may pursue individual lawsuits or join multi-district litigation (MDL), depending on which approach might yield the best outcome for their clients. The goal is to secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to Roundup exposure.

Missouri Law Firm Comparison for Roundup Cases

Several Missouri law firms have established themselves as leaders in Roundup litigation, each offering different strengths and approaches:

Onder Law (Onder Law) has extensive experience with mass torts and has been involved in Roundup litigation since its early stages. The firm has secured substantial settlements for clients and offers personalized attention despite handling numerous cases.

Brown & Crouppen (Brown & Crouppen) brings over 40 years of personal injury experience to Roundup cases. Their team approach provides clients with access to multiple attorneys and support staff throughout their case.

Schlichter Bogard & Denton (Schlichter Bogard & Denton) has a strong track record in complex litigation against large corporations. They offer detailed case evaluation and have secured significant verdicts in various mass tort cases.

Gray, Ritter & Graham (Gray, Ritter & Graham) combines litigation experience with scientific knowledge, which is particularly valuable in cases involving technical medical and chemical evidence like Roundup claims.

The Simon Law Firm (The Simon Law Firm) has received recognition for their work in product liability cases and offers resources comparable to larger firms while maintaining personalized client relationships.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Hiring a Specialized Firm

Working with a Missouri law firm that specializes in Roundup litigation offers several advantages. These attorneys have developed specific expertise in the scientific evidence linking glyphosate to cancer and understand the complexities of these cases. They also have established relationships with medical experts who can provide crucial testimony.

Specialized firms have often already invested in gathering evidence about Roundup and its effects, which can strengthen individual cases. Additionally, firms that have handled multiple Roundup cases may have insights into Bayer's defense strategies and settlement patterns that general practice attorneys lack.

However, there are potential drawbacks to consider. High-profile firms may have large caseloads, potentially resulting in less individual attention. Some clients report communication challenges when working with firms handling thousands of similar cases. Additionally, contingency fees typically range from 33-40% of any settlement or verdict, plus case expenses, which reduces the final compensation received by clients.

Another consideration is timing. While some cases resolve relatively quickly through settlements, others may take years to conclude, especially if they proceed to trial. Clients should discuss realistic timelines with potential attorneys before making decisions about representation.

Case Evaluation and Compensation Considerations

The value of Roundup cases varies significantly based on several factors. Missouri law firms typically evaluate cases considering the extent and duration of Roundup exposure, the severity of the client's illness, the strength of evidence linking the exposure to the illness, and the client's age and overall health history.

Compensation in successful cases may include coverage for medical expenses (past and future), lost wages and diminished earning capacity, pain and suffering, and in some cases, punitive damages. Early settlements in the Roundup litigation averaged between $5,000 and $250,000 per plaintiff, with some exceptional cases receiving significantly more.

When selecting a law firm, potential clients should inquire about the firm's specific experience with Roundup cases, their success rate, their approach to case valuation, and their communication practices. Most reputable firms like O'Neill Law and The Cochran Firm offer free case evaluations to help individuals understand their options before making commitments.

It's also important to understand the statute of limitations for filing claims, which varies by state but generally begins from the date of diagnosis or when the connection between Roundup and the illness should reasonably have been discovered. Missouri law firms can advise on specific deadlines applicable to individual situations.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Roundup law firm in Missouri is a critical decision for those affected by health issues potentially linked to the herbicide. The ideal firm combines specific experience with Roundup litigation, sufficient resources to challenge a corporate giant like Bayer, and a commitment to personalized client communication. While no attorney can guarantee specific outcomes, firms with established track records in this litigation may offer advantages in navigating these complex cases. Most importantly, affected individuals should act promptly to ensure their legal rights are protected within applicable statutes of limitations. With the right legal representation, those harmed by Roundup exposure can focus on their health while their attorneys pursue the compensation they deserve.

Citations

This content was written by AI and reviewed by a human for quality and compliance.