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Nevada Jury Awards Electrician $15.6 Million in Mesothelioma Case

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A Nevada jury awarded $15.6 million to John Wagner, an electrician diagnosed with mesothelioma, due to exposure to asbestos in components manufactured by Eaton Corp (ETN). Wagner, who worked in the electrical field for over 50 years, was unaware that the materials he handled contained asbestos. The jury found Eaton liable for failing to disclose this harmful information, which compromised Wagner's ability to take necessary precautions. The trial was led by Dean Omar Branham Shirley LLP, which represented Wagner and his family in this significant case.

Positive
  • The jury's verdict of $15.6 million is a substantial financial compensation for John Wagner and his family.
Negative
  • Eaton Corp is now liable for a significant legal judgment, which may affect their financial standing.
  • The case exposes potential liabilities regarding asbestos in Eaton's products, risking further legal actions and reputational damage.

RENO, Nev., Aug. 13, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The attorneys of Dean Omar Branham Shirley LLP secured a $15.6 million verdict on behalf of a Fernley, Nevada, an electrician who contracted mesothelioma after working with asbestos-containing components manufactured by Eaton Corp. (NYSE: ETN).

Working as an industrial, commercial and residential electrician for more than 50 years, John Wagner maintained motor starters and controllers manufactured by Eaton/Cutler-Hammer. This work included sanding, filing, and manipulating the plastic molded housings and arc shields which, unknown to Mr. Wagner, contained asbestos.

With the trial team's successful challenge of the majority of Eaton's expert witness testimony, jurors in Washoe County District Judge Egan Walker's Second Judicial District Court found Eaton responsible for Mr. Wagner's development of malignant mesothelioma, a deadly form of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. The Aug. 12 verdict totaled $15.6 million.

"To be an electrician, you must be able to identify and anticipate potential dangers, and John was an exceptional electrician who was skilled at navigating known life-threatening risks," says trial lawyer Aaron Chapman of Dallas-based Dean Omar Branham Shirley LLP. "The asbestos content in these products was only known to Eaton, and the company made a business decision not to share that information. Because of that, a dedicated craftsman like John could not take the necessary precautions to protect himself."

"We appreciate Judge Walker and the jury's dedication to this case and providing John and his family with the justice they deserve."

The case is John C. Wagner and Denise A. Wagner v. Eaton Corp., No CV19-01303 in the Washoe County Second Judicial District Court of Nevada. Representing the Wagners were trial lawyers Aaron Chapman, Benjamin Braly, Ethan Horn, and Kathy Farinas of Dean Omar Branham Shirley, LLP; and Matthew Sharp of the Law Office of Matthew Sharp.

Dean Omar Branham Shirley, LLP, is a nationally recognized trial firm that handles cases across the country for individuals who have suffered catastrophic injuries or have died as a result of the irresponsible conduct of others. For more information, visit www.dobslegal.com

Media Contact:    
Rhonda Reddick
800-559-4534  
rhonda@androvett.com

Cision View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/nevada-jury-awards-electrician-15-6-million-in-mesothelioma-case-301355267.html

SOURCE Dean Omar Branham Shirley LLP

FAQ

What was the verdict amount awarded to John Wagner against Eaton Corp?

John Wagner was awarded $15.6 million by the jury.

What type of cancer was John Wagner diagnosed with?

John Wagner was diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma.

When was the verdict against Eaton Corp delivered?

The verdict was delivered on August 12, 2021.

What company was found liable for John Wagner's mesothelioma?

Eaton Corp (ETN) was found liable for John Wagner's mesothelioma.

Who represented John Wagner in the lawsuit against Eaton Corp?

John Wagner was represented by the law firm Dean Omar Branham Shirley LLP.

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