Facts

Former career drywall taper, Douglas Ivance, died on April 20, 2003 from respiratory failure, partly caused by CAP-NIOSH grade-four asbestosis and severe asbestos-caused pleural disease. Aline Ivance used defendant, Rich-Tex's drywall products for 14 years out of his 47-year career. His family had sued defendant on a products liability theory, arguing his death was caused in part by defendant's asbestos containing products.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
The plaintiff argued the defendant's products released hazardous respirable asbestos dust when used as intended, thus contributing to Ivance's illness and subsequent death.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS:
The defendant contended that asbestos exposure was minimal from the defendant's products; primary exposure from other parties and U.S. Navy.

Damages

The jury assessed $368,787 in economic damages, as well as $500,000 in non-economic damages.

Injuries

The jury assigned 3.06 percent of the liability for Ivance's illness and death, to defendant.

Result

After deliberating two and a half days, the jury returned a verdict in favor of plaintiff, in the amount of $868,787.

Deliberation

2.5 days

Length

four weeks