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Consumer Law
Fraud
Unfair, Deceptive, and Unlawful Business Practices

Stephen Trewin and Joseph Farhatt, on behalf of themselves and all others similarly situated v. Church & Dwight Co. Inc.

Published: Mar. 21, 2015 | Result Date: Feb. 4, 2015 | Filing Date: Jan. 1, 1900 |

Case number: 3:12-cv-01475-MAS-DEA Settlement –  $1,500,000

Court

USDC New Jersey


Attorneys

Plaintiff

John R. Climaco

John A. Peca

James C. Shah
(Miller Shah LLP)

Richard J. Arsenault

Eric D. Holland

Patrick G. Warner

Jayne A. Goldstein
(Shepherd, Finkelman, Miller & Shah LLP)

Charles E. Schaffer
(Levin, Sedran & Berman LLP)

Adam J. Levitt
(DiCello Levitt)

Natalie F. Bennett
(Shepherd, Finkelman, Miller & Shah LLP)


Defendant

Baldassare Vinti
(Proskauer Rose LLP)

Richard M. Goldstein

Wanda L. Ellert

Lawrence I. Weinstein


Facts

Stephen Trewin and Joseph Farhatt filed a class action against Church & Dwight Co. Inc. concerning Arm & Hammer Essentials deodorant with the old label stating, "Natural Deodorant."

Contentions

PLAINTIFFS' CONTENTIONS:
Plaintiffs contended that the deodorant with the old "Natural Deodorant" label was misleading because the ingredients were not all natural and included a synthetic bacteria, triclosan, that could possibly damage hormones and also contribute to the growth of super bugs.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS:
Defendant denied the allegations.

Result

The parties reached a settlement that provided both injunctive and monetary relief. As part of the injunctive relief, Church & Dwight agreed to make changes to the labels. Church & Dwight would no longer use the words "Natural Deodorant" nor state that the product would provide "Natural Protection." Church & Dwight also agreed to pay $1.5 million in settlement, and up to $420,000 in attorney fees and expenses. Eligible class members could receive up to $4 in cash refund.

Other Information

FILING DATE: March 9, 2012.


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