Hassard Bonnington LLP

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The Supreme Court reiterated that the general rule is that a product manufacturer may not be held liable in negligence or strict liability for harm caused by another manufacturer’s product. The Court held that the only exceptions to the rule arise when the defendant bears some direct responsibility for the harm either because the defendant’s own product contributed substantially to the harm or because the defendant participated substantially in creating a harmful combined use of the products.

Mr. Hamblett has also served as national trial counsel in the asbestos litigation, trying numerous cases to verdict and obtaining defense verdicts based upon medical, exposure and state-of-the-art issues. He has extensive experience working with and cross-examining national experts in all fields pertinent to toxic tort, products liability and contractor and premises liability cases.

On January 12, 2012, the California Supreme Court issued its long anticipated opinion in the case of O’Neil v. Crane Co. regarding the component parts defense. The case involved the claims of plaintiffs that Patrick O’Neil developed mesothelioma, which caused his death in 2005, as a result of exposure to asbestos while stationed aboard the aircraft carrier the USS Oriskany. Mr. O’Neil’s family claimed that manufacturers of pumps and valves used in the steam propulsion system were liable for Mr.

Ms. Pappas' current practice includes the representation of an array of clients, including manufacturers of medical devices and pharmaceuticals in product liability and other business actions. She has experience in all phases of litigation, including factual investigation, pleadings, discovery and depositions, motions, experts, settlement strategy and negotiations and preparation for trial. Ms. Pappas is admitted to practice in all California state courts, and all federal district courts in California and is a member of the San Francisco County Bar Association.

Mr. Katerndahl is admitted to practice in California and Texas. He has over 25 years of experience in toxic tort, products liability, premises liability, discrimination and business litigation. He has represented manufacturers, retailers, premises owners, telephone companies and contractors.

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