Spurlock v. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co.

VERDICT

Trial
05/24/21 – 06/14/21

Summary

In this Engle progeny tobacco case, plaintiffs, the family member of a man who developed COPD after decades of smoking, claim defendant R.J. Reynolds, maker of the cigarettes he favored, is responsible, by causing his addiction to cigarettes, which led to his respiratory disease.

The defense contends the smoker knew the risks of cigarettes but did not do enough to quit smoking in time to avoid the impact smoking had on him.

The 2021 trial in the case concerned all elements of an Engle claim, including addiction and causation. The 2024 trial focused solely on whether punitive damages were warranted.

Outcome

Verdict for plaintiff.
Total damages: $2,540,915.53.
Including $540,915.53 in compensatory damages and $2 million in punitive damages.

Apportionment of fault:
R.J. Reynolds: 30%
Lloyd Spurlock: 70%

Case Information
Attorneys
Witnesses
Plaintiff
Defense
Verdict
$2,540,916
Judge
Joseph Curley
Jurisdiction
15th Judicial Circuit of Florida
Court
Palm Beach County Courthouse
Case Number
2007-CA-023631
Industry
Tobacco
Practice Area
Tobacco
Plaintiff
Spurlock, Lloyd
Defense
R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co.
Expert Witnesses
Lay Witnesses

Sessions

PM Session
Other
2 Chapters
MAY
24
MAY
25
MAY
26
MAY
27
JUN
1
JUN
2
JUN
3
JUN
7
JUN
8
JUN
9
JUN
10
JUN
14

Recording Disclaimer: This proceeding was recorded in full.

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