Press Releases

New York Jury Awards over $50 Million in Damages in Two Asbestos Cases

The New York law firm of Belluck & Fox, LLP, has won a $32 million verdict against manufacturers Crane Company and Elliot and a $19 million verdict against New York-based real-estate contractor and property owner Tishman.

New York, NY (Vocus/PRWEB) August 17, 2011 – The New York law firm of Belluck & Fox, LLP, secured separate verdicts totaling $32 million and more than $19 million on August 17 in cases involving individuals who contracted the deadly disease, mesothelioma, after being exposed to asbestos.

In the case of Ronald Dummitt and Doris Kay Dummitt v. A.W. Chesterton, et al. (Supreme Court of New York, New York County, No. 190196/10), a jury found Crane Co. and Elliott Turbomachinery Co. responsible for the asbestos exposure that led to a U.S. Navy boiler tender’s diagnosis of pleural mesothelioma, an incurable form of cancer.

In returning its verdict, the jury determined that Crane and Elliott acted with  reckless disregard for the safety of others in failing to warn. The jury apportioned 99 percent responsibility to Crane and 1 percent responsibility to Elliott.  The award included $16 million in past pain and suffering and $16 million in future pain and suffering to Mr. Dummitt, who is 58 years old.

In the case of David Konstantin and Ruby Konstantin v. 630 Third Avenue Associates, et al. (Supreme Court of New York, New York County, No. 090134), the jury found Tishman Liquidating Corporation, formerly known as Tishman Realty & Construction, Co., Inc., responsible for Mr. Konstantin developing testicular mesothelioma.  Mr Konstantin is 55 years old.

The jury found Tishman 76 percent liable and to have acted with reckless disregard for the safety of others. The jury awarded Mr. Konstantin $7 million for past pain and suffering, and $12 million for future pain and suffering. The verdict amount also included $64,832 for past lost wages, and $485,325 for future lost wages.

Based on the reckless findings and the relative culpability of these defendants, under New York law they are jointly and severably liable for the jury verdicts.

Both trials were joined and  lasted nine weeks.  They were presided over by the Honorable Joan Madden.

The Belluck & Fox trial team on each case was led by Jordan Fox, joined by attorneys James Long,  Brian Belasky, Seth Dymond and William Papain.

About Belluck & Fox

Belluck & Fox, LLP, is a nationally recognized law firm that represents individuals with asbestos and mesothelioma claims, as well as victims of crime, motorcycle crashes, lead paint and other serious injuries. The firm provides personalized and professional representation and has won over $400 million in compensation for clients and their families.

Partner Joseph W. Belluck is AV-rated by Martindale-Hubbell and is listed in Best Lawyers in America, New York Magazine’s “Best Lawyers in the New York Area” and in Super Lawyers. Mr. Belluck has won numerous cases involving injuries from asbestos, defective medical products, tobacco and lead paint, including a recent asbestos case that settled for more than $12 million.

Partner Jordan Fox is a well-known asbestos and mesothelioma attorney who has been named to the Best Lawyers in America, New York Magazine’s “Best Lawyers in the New York Area” and to Super Lawyers. On two separate occasions his verdicts were featured as the National Law Journal’s Largest Verdict of the Year.

In September, Belluck & Fox, LLP, won a coveted spot on a list of America's best law firms, which was published jointly by U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers magazine. The listing showcased 8,782 different law firms ranked in one or more of 81 major practice areas.

For more information, contact the firm at (877) 637-6843 or through the online contact form.