Case Studies

Case Studies: Four Decades of Experience That Shape Outcomes

When facing down multinational corporations in high-stakes litigation, history and preparation matter. For more than 40 years, Rogers, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman LLC has built a foundation on confronting powerful industries. Our deep-rooted background, particularly in complex mass torts and occupational disease claims, lets us leverage our sophisticated evidence resources and provide unparalleled post-verdict support.

A Legacy Built on Historic Asbestos Litigation

Our foundation rests on decades of advocating for workers and families devastated by asbestos exposure and related diseases. With over 40 years of continuous litigation in this sector, we have compiled proprietary databases of exposure sites, corporate memos, and product histories. 

When a defendant attempts to obscure their timeline of knowledge regarding asbestos hazards, we have the resources to dismantle their defense, demand maximum compensation during settlement negotiations and trial proceedings, and fundamentally change the trajectory of our clients’ cases.

Inside Our Evidence-Driven Trial Strategy

Taking on a major corporate defendant requires an aggressive, evidence-first posture. Our trial strategy relies on exhaustive discovery, a deep dive into corporate archives to uncover everything necessary, and a refusal to settle for less. 

Our readiness to try high-stakes matters prevents corporations from utilizing attrition tactics to wear down our clients.

Representative Case Studies: The Process and The Results

Here are some examples of how our strategic involvement shapes outcomes across different sectors of litigation.

National Tobacco Litigation

Taking on the tobacco industry required unwinding decades of corporate deception regarding the addictive nature of nicotine and the associated cancer risks.  Our firm’s involvement in these historic battles contributed to monumental resolutions (including the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement) that not only compensated injured parties but also forced fundamental changes in how tobacco products are marketed. 

Military Earplugs (MDL 2885)

When military service members suffered hearing loss and tinnitus from defective combat earplugs, the ensuing litigation became one of the largest consolidated mass torts in U.S. legal history. The case involved rigorous scientific evidence and biomechanical analysis to prove that the military earplugs were defectively designed and that the manufacturer failed to warn the military of known flaws. Through bellwether trials and relentless pressure, we achieved a multi-billion-dollar resolution structure and helped veterans receive the compensation they needed to address lifelong auditory injuries.

Complex Asbestos and Mesothelioma Actions

Proving liability in a mesothelioma case often requires tracing a client’s occupational history back 30 or 40 years. We identify the specific asbestos-containing products used on job sites (from shipyards to power plants) and match them to the manufacturers who concealed the risks.

By relying on our extensive archives and trial readiness, we consistently achieve multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements for our clients. 

Life After the Verdict: Comprehensive Post-Trial Support

The conclusion of a trial or the signing of a settlement document does not end our relationship with our clients. We understand that “life after the verdict” brings its own set of challenges; our team provides ongoing strategic support in administering settlement funds, navigating healthcare liens, and handling complex trust distributions. 

Contact Us Today

Rogers, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman LLC is a premier South Carolina personal injury law firm with national reach. To learn more or schedule a free consultation, call 843-727-6500 or contact us online. We have offices in Charleston, Mt. Pleasant, Aiken, and Columbia, South Carolina.