Dixon v. R.J. Reynolds

MISTRIAL

Trial
08/07/18 – 08/17/18

Summary

In this tobacco trial, decedent Tyrone Dixon died from throat cancer after smoking for most of his life. This case has been tried before but the verdict was overturned upon appeal, as the appellate court found that the trial court did not provide proper jury instruction.

Dixon's family asserts that R.J. Reynolds concealed the dangers of smoking, with their representatives claiming that Dixon fell victim to Reynolds' false advertising.

Representatives for R.J. Reynolds assert that Dixon knew the dangers of smoking but never made an effort to quit.

Outcome

VERDICT - Phase 1: PLAINTIFF
% fault RJR - 58%, plaintiff - 42%.
Damages: Frances $1.3 million.
Tyrone Jr - $350k.
Bianca - $350 k.

PUNITIVES - Phase 2 - YES

MISTRIAL of Phase 2 - to be retried at a later date TBD

Case Information
Attorneys
Witnesses
Plaintiff
Defense
Verdict
$2,000,000
Judge
Donna Keim
Jurisdiction
8th Judicial Circuit of Florida
Court
Alachua Family / Civil Justice Center
Case Number
2015-CA-002554
Industry
Tobacco
Practice Area
Tobacco
Plaintiff
Bessent-Dixon, Frances
Defense
R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co.
Expert Witnesses
Lay Witnesses

Sessions

AUG
7
AUG
8
AUG
9
AUG
10
AUG
13
AUG
14
AUG
15
PM Session
Verdict
2 Chapters
AUG
16
PM Session
Verdict - Damages
2 Chapters
AUG
17

Recording Disclaimer: This proceeding was recorded in full.

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