Simpson Thacher has been a leader in the development of product liability and mass tort law in the United States for almost four decades.

The Firm has taken numerous product liability and mass tort cases to jury trial in state and federal courts over many years, amassing substantial, invaluable courtroom experience.  Our willingness to dig deeply into the complex technical issues that these cases present and our proven ability to convey such concepts to juries in an emotionally-charged environment are consistently cited by clients.

As these cases have become more complex, Simpson Thacher often has assumed the role of national coordinating counsel for our clients. In that capacity, we develop overall substantive and procedural defensive strategies and coordinate defense in numerous jurisdictions, ensuring a consistent position in all venues.  The Firm has served as coordinating and trial counsel in class action and individual litigations arising from the use of a wide variety of consumer products, including, for example, alcohol beverages, computer components, motor vehicles, pharmaceuticals, security devices and tobacco products.

Simpson Thacher has been particularly active in defending purported class action litigation in the area. One of our partners is the author of the two volume treatise McLaughlin On Class Actions.

Simpson Thacher also renders strategic advice to parent companies (including companies located outside of the U.S.) on issues arising out of their subsidiaries’ product liability issues and provides product liability and mass tort insight, assessment and analysis to clients in the investment and financial services sectors.  The Firm also provides product liability advice and representation to trade associations and other industry organizations.

Two examples of recent litigation being handled by the Firm include the representation of a major beer company in numerous class actions across the country and the representation of the security company that provided passenger screening services for two of the airplanes involved in the tragic events of 9/11.