In a recent verdict, Cooney & Conway, alongside Dean Omar Branham Shirley, achieved a monumental $30 million victory for the family of Thomas Jackson. The case revolves around second-hand asbestos exposure, resulting in the tragic death of Mr. Jackson just five weeks after being diagnosed with an aggressive form of mesothelioma.
Background
Thomas Jackson's case was unique; he was never directly exposed to asbestos. Instead, his exposure occurred secondarily through the dust that clung to his father's clothes, a consequence of his father's employment at the now-closed Firestone tire plant in Decatur, IL. The family, through their legal team, proved that the talc used in the plant was contaminated with raw asbestos, which led to Thomas's fatal illness.
The Legal Battle
The jury, after a nine-day trial, returned a $30 million verdict in favor of Dorothy J. Jackson, Thomas's widow. The breakdown of the award includes $5.25 million for economic losses, over $11 million for wrongful death, and $13.6 million in survivor damages, emphasizing the emotional toll of the loss.
Legal Team and Emotional Narrative
Michael Cooney and Bob Cooney of Cooney & Conway, as well as Benjamin Braly and Sam Iola of Dean Omar Branham Shirley LLP, spearheaded the legal team. Together, they navigated the complex legal issues and delivered upon the compelling nature of the tragic circumstances of Tom’s death and the poignant narrative of the Jacksons' 43-year marriage. The jury evidently found the story of Tom and Dorothy compelling, resulting in a substantial award.
Corporate Response
Despite Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations expressing sympathy for the Jackson family, they maintain non-liability for Thomas's death. The legal battle, encapsulated in the case of Dorothy J. Jackson v. A.W. Chesterton Company, et al. (No. 19 L 9793), showcases the determination to hold corporations accountable for the consequences of asbestos exposure.
This victory not only delivers justice for the Jackson family but also serves as a testament to the legal prowess of Cooney & Conway and Dean Omar Branham Shirley in navigating complex asbestos-related cases. The fight against asbestos-related diseases continues one case at a time.
Sources: https://www.chicagolawbulletin.com/mesothelioma-$30-million-verdict-bridgestone-20231227