Dixon v. R.J. Reynolds

VERDICT

Trial
04/02/24 – 04/12/24

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 for plaintiff.

Apportionment of fault:
R.J. Reynolds: 60%
Tyrone Dixon: 40%

Total damages: $34,723,176
Including $8.975 million in compensatory damages and $25,748,176 in punitive damages.

Case Information
Attorneys
Witnesses
Plaintiff
Defense
Verdict
$34,723,176
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

APR
2
APR
3
APR
4
APR
5
APR
8
APR
9
APR
10
PM Session
Verdict
3 Chapters
APR
11
PM Session
Verdict - Damages
3 Chapters
APR
12

Recording Disclaimer: This proceeding was recorded in full.

AudioCaseFiles

Exclusive audio opinions to enhance your law school experience

AudioCaseFiles

Essentials

The most important and informative moments of each trial

Essentials

Training Libraries

Trial Advocacy, Rules of Evidence and Appellate Advocacy

Training

  • Follow Us